Heavy metals in fish from the Aleutians: Interspecific and locational differences

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

Burger, Joanna, E-mail: burger@biology.rutgers.edu; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ; Consortium for Risk Evaluation with Stakeholder Participation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235

The objectives of this study were to examine levels of arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury and selenium in edible tissue of seven species of marine fish collected from several Aleutian islands (in 2004) to determine: (1) interspecific differences, (2) locational differences (among Aleutian Islands), (3) size-related differences in any metal levels within a species, and (4) potential risk to the fish or to predators on the fish, including humans. We also compared metals levels to those of three other fish species previously examined in detail, as well as examining metals in the edible tissue of octopus (Octopus dofleini). Octopus did notmore » have the highest levels of any metal. There were significant interspecific differences in all metal levels among the fish species, although the differences were less than an order of magnitude, except for arsenic (mean of 19,500 ppb in Flathead sole, Hippoglossoides elassodon). Significant intraisland variation occurred among the four sites on Amchitka, but there was not a consistent pattern. There were significant interisland differences for some metals and species. Mercury levels increased significantly with size for several species; lead increased significantly for only one fish species; and cadmium and selenium decreased significantly with size for halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis). The Alaskan Department of Health and Social Services supports unrestricted consumption of most Alaskan fish species for all people, including pregnant women. Most mean metal concentrations were well below the levels known to adversely affect the fish themselves, or predators that consume them (including humans), except for mercury in three fish species (mean levels just below 0.3 ppm), and arsenic in two fish species. However, even at low mercury levels, people who consume fish almost daily will exceed guideline values from the Centers for Disease Control and the Environmental Protection Agency. - Highlights: • Cadmium, lead, mercury and selenium levels differed among 10 fish species from the Aleutians. • Mean Arsenic was as high as 19,500 ppb (flathead sole, Hippoglossoides elassodon). • Mercury levels increased significantly with fish size for several species. • Metal levels were generally below adverse effects levels for fish and their predators. • Mercury and arsenic might pose a risk to human consumers, and require further examination.« less

Lipid-lowering drugs (statins) and peripheral neuropathy.

PubMed

Emad, Mohammadreza; Arjmand, Hosein; Farpour, Hamid Reza; Kardeh, Bahareh

2018-03-01

Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder with often unknown causes. Some drugs, including statins, are proposed to be among the causes of peripheral neuropathy. This study aimed at evaluating this condition by electrodiagnostic study among patients who had received statins. This case-control study was conducted in Shiraz, Iran in 2015, and included 39 patients aged 35-55 who had received statins for at least 6 months, and 39 healthy matched controls. Using electrodiagnosis, the sensory and motor wave features (amplitude, latency and nerve conduction velocity) of the peripheral nerves (Median, Ulnar, Tibial, Sural, and Peroneal) were evaluated among the subjects. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Regarding the occurrence of neuropathy, there were no significant differences in any of the definitions presented for peripheral neuropathy. However, the difference was close to significance for one definition [2 abnormalities in 2 nerves (p=0.055)]. Regarding mean values of the features, significant differences were observed in two features: amplitude of the peroneal motor nerve (p=0.048) and amplitude of the sural sensory nerve (p=0.036). Since statins are widely used, awareness regarding their side-effects would lead to better treatment. Even though no significant differences were found between the groups regarding the occurrence of peripheral neuropathy, there were significant differences in amplitudes of the sural sensory response and the peroneal motor response. This indicates the involvement of peripheral nerves. Therefore, we recommend that patients and physicians should be informed about the possible symptoms of this condition.

Toxic metal interactions affect the bioaccumulation and dietary intake of macro- and micro-nutrients.

PubMed

Khan, Anwarzeb; Khan, Sardar; Alam, Mehboob; Khan, Muhammad Amjad; Aamir, Muhammad; Qamar, Zahir; Ur Rehman, Zahir; Perveen, Sajida

2016-03-01

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of heavy metals (cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and Cd-Pb mix) on bioaccumulation of different nutrients. Three plant species including potato, tomato and lettuce were grown in pots containing soil contaminated with Cd, Pb and Cd-Pb mix at four different levels. The edible portions of each plant were analysed for Cd, Pb and different macro- and micro-nutrients including protein, vitamin C, nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), potassium (K), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg). Results indicated significant variations in selected elemental concentrations in all the three plants grown in different treatments. The projected daily dietary intake values of selected metals were significant (P < 0.001) for Fe, Mn, Ca and Mg but not significant for protein, vitamin C, N and P. The elemental contribution to Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) was significant for Mn. Similarly, Fe and Mg also showed substantial contribution to RDA, while Ca, N, P, K, protein and vitamin C showed the minimal contribution for different age groups. This study suggests that vegetables cultivated on Cd and Pb contaminated soil may significantly affect their quality, and the consumption of such vegetables may result in substantial negative effects on nutritional composition of the consumer body. Long term and continuous use of contaminated vegetables may result in malnutrition. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Is there a difference in cognitive development between preschool singletons and twins born after intracytoplasmic sperm injection or in vitro fertilization?*

PubMed Central

Xing, Lan-feng; Qian, Yu-li; Chen, Lu-ting; Zhang, Fan-hong; Xu, Xin-fen; Qu, Fan; Zhu, Yi-min

2014-01-01

Objective: To explore whether there exist differences in cognitive development between singletons and twins born after in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Methods: A total of 566 children were recruited for the study, including 388 children (singletons, n=175; twins, n=213) born after IVF and 178 children (singletons, n=87; twins, n=91) born after ICSI. The cognitive development was assessed using the Chinese-Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (C-WISC). Results: For all pre-term offspring, all the intelligence quotient (IQ) items between singletons and twins showed no significant differences no matter if they were born after IVF or ICSI. There was a significant difference in the cognitive development of IVF-conceived full-term singletons and twins. The twins born after IVF obtained significantly lower scores than the singletons in verbal IQ (containing information, picture & vocabulary, arithmetic, picture completion, comprehension, and language), performance IQ (containing maze, visual analysis, object assembly, and performance), and full scale IQ (P<0.05). The cognitive development of full-term singletons and twins born after ICSI did not show any significant differences. There was no significant difference between the parents of the singletons and twins in their characteristics where data were collected, including the age of the mothers, the current employment status, the educational backgrounds, and areas of residence. There were also no consistent differences in the duration of pregnancy, sex composition of the children, age, and height between singletons and twins at the time of our study although there existed significant differences between the two groups in the sex composition of the full-term children born after ICSI (P<0.05). Conclusions: Compared to the full-term singletons born after IVF, the full-term twins have lower cognitive development. The cognitive development of full-term singletons and twins born after ICSI did not show any significant differences. For all pre-term offspring, singletons and twins born after IVF or ICSI, the results of the cognitive development showed no significant differences. PMID:24390744

Is there a difference in cognitive development between preschool singletons and twins born after intracytoplasmic sperm injection or in vitro fertilization?

PubMed

Xing, Lan-feng; Qian, Yu-li; Chen, Lu-ting; Zhang, Fan-hong; Xu, Xin-fen; Qu, Fan; Zhu, Yi-min

2014-01-01

To explore whether there exist differences in cognitive development between singletons and twins born after in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). A total of 566 children were recruited for the study, including 388 children (singletons, n=175; twins, n=213) born after IVF and 178 children (singletons, n=87; twins, n=91) born after ICSI. The cognitive development was assessed using the Chinese-Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (C-WISC). For all pre-term offspring, all the intelligence quotient (IQ) items between singletons and twins showed no significant differences no matter if they were born after IVF or ICSI. There was a significant difference in the cognitive development of IVF-conceived full-term singletons and twins. The twins born after IVF obtained significantly lower scores than the singletons in verbal IQ (containing information, picture & vocabulary, arithmetic, picture completion, comprehension, and language), performance IQ (containing maze, visual analysis, object assembly, and performance), and full scale IQ (P<0.05). The cognitive development of full-term singletons and twins born after ICSI did not show any significant differences. There was no significant difference between the parents of the singletons and twins in their characteristics where data were collected, including the age of the mothers, the current employment status, the educational backgrounds, and areas of residence. There were also no consistent differences in the duration of pregnancy, sex composition of the children, age, and height between singletons and twins at the time of our study although there existed significant differences between the two groups in the sex composition of the full-term children born after ICSI (P<0.05). Compared to the full-term singletons born after IVF, the full-term twins have lower cognitive development. The cognitive development of full-term singletons and twins born after ICSI did not show any significant differences. For all pre-term offspring, singletons and twins born after IVF or ICSI, the results of the cognitive development showed no significant differences.

The social competence and behavioral problem substrate of new- and recent-onset childhood epilepsy.

PubMed

Almane, Dace; Jones, Jana E; Jackson, Daren C; Seidenberg, Michael; Hermann, Bruce P

2014-02-01

This study examined patterns of syndrome-specific problems in behavior and competence in children with new- or recent-onset epilepsy compared with healthy controls. Research participants consisted of 205 children aged 8-18, including youth with recent-onset epilepsy (n=125, 64 localization-related epilepsy [LRE] and 61 idiopathic generalized epilepsy [IGE]) and healthy first-degree cousin controls (n=80). Parents completed the Child Behavior Checklist for children aged 6-18 (CBCL/6-18) from the Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA). Dependent variables included Total Competence, Total Problems, Total Internalizing, Total Externalizing, and Other Problems scales. Comparisons of children with LRE and IGE with healthy controls were examined followed by comparisons of healthy controls with those having specific epilepsy syndromes of LRE (BECTS, Frontal/Temporal Lobe, and Focal NOS) and IGE (Absence, Juvenile Myoclonic, and IGE NOS). Children with LRE and/or IGE differed significantly (p<0.05) from healthy controls, but did not differ from each other, across measures of behavior (Total Problems, Total Internalizing, Total Externalizing, and Other Problems including Thought and Attention Problems) or competence (Total Competence including School and Social). Similarly, children with specific syndromes of LRE and IGE differed significantly (p<0.05) from controls across measures of behavior (Total Problems, Total Internalizing, and Other Problems including Attention Problems) and competence (Total Competence including School). Only on the Thought Problems scale were there syndrome differences. In conclusion, children with recent-onset epilepsy present with significant behavioral problems and lower competence compared with controls, with little syndrome specificity whether defined broadly (LRE and IGE) or narrowly (specific syndromes of LRE and IGE). Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Single vs two implant-retained overdentures for edentulous mandibles: a systematic review.

PubMed

Alqutaibi, Ahmed Yaseen; Esposito, Marco; Algabri, Radwan; Alfahad, Adnan; Kaddah, Amal; Farouk, Mohammed; Alsourori, Ali

To compare prosthesis and implant failure, patient satisfaction, prosthetic complications and peri-implant marginal bone loss of mandibular overdentures (IOD) supported by a single or two implants. Manual and electronic database (PubMed and Cochrane) searches were performed to identify randomised controlled trials, without language restriction, comparing single vs two implant supported mandibular overdentures. Two investigators extracted data independently. The Cochrane tool was used for assessing the quality of included studies. Meta-analyses were performed for the included RCTs. Six publications corresponding to four RCTs were identified. Three RCTs (corresponding to five publications) were included and one trial was excluded. Follow-ups in function were 1, 3 and 5 years after loading. All included studies were considered to be at a high risk of bias. The pooled result revealed more prosthesis failures at overdentures supported by two implants at 1 year (three trials) (P = 0.02; Risk Difference: -0.12, 95% CI: -0.22, -0.02), however, there were non-significant differences at 3 years (two trials) (P = 0.22; Risk Difference: -0.32, 95% CI: -0.83, 0.19) and at 5 years (one trial) (P = 0.95; Risk Difference: 0.01, 95% CI: -0.22, 0.24). Regarding implant failures, there were more implant losses in overdentures supported by two implants at 1 year (three trials) (P = 0.02; Risk Difference: -0.12, 95% CI: -0.22, -0.02) and at 5 years (one trial) (P = 0.95; Risk Difference: -0.15, 95% CI: -0.28, -0.02), however, there were non-significant difference at 3 years (two trials) (P = 0.2; Risk Difference: -0.33, 95% CI: -0.84, 0.18). After 5 years in function, meta-analyses revealed that there were non-significant differences regarding overall prosthetic complications when mandibular overdentures supported by a single implant were compared with overdentures supported by two implants (P = 0.43; RD: 0.04, 95% CI: -0.06, 0.15). Mandibular overdentures retained by a single implant have comparable results to those retained by two implants. However, this should be interpreted with caution as all the included studies were considered at a high risk of bias.

Evaluation of the hemodynamics and right ventricular function in pulmonary hypertension by echocardiography compared with right-sided heart catheterization

PubMed Central

Li, Yidan; Wang, Yidan; Li, Hong; Zhu, Weiwei; Meng, Xiangli; Lu, Xiuzhang

2017-01-01

The present study aimed to evaluate hemodynamics and right ventricular function in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) using transthoracic echocardiography and to compare these results with measurements obtained using right-sided heart catheterization (RHC). A total of 75 patients with PH were examined using echocardiography and RHC. Patients were divided into the following two groups according to their difference between SPAPecho and SPAPRHC measurement: The overestimated group and underestimated group. The overestimated group included the subgroups groupover-A (difference <20 mmHg) and groupover-B (difference ≥20 mmHg), and the underestimated group included groupunder-A (absolute value of the difference <20 mmHg) and groupunder-B (absolute value of the difference ≥20 mmHg). SPAPecho measurements were revealed to be significantly positively correlated with SPAPRHC measurements (r=0.794; P<0.01). Among all echocardiographic measurements, only tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) was significantly different between groups; it was increased in groupover-A and groupunder-A compared with groupover-B (P<0.01). Although SPAP measurements obtained using echocardiography were significantly positively correlated with those obtained using RHC, a high proportion of overestimation or underestimation of SPAP by echocardiography remained. PMID:29042956

Meta-analyses of the Association of Sleep Apnea with Insulin Resistance, and the Effects of CPAP on HOMA-IR, Adiponectin, and Visceral Adipose Fat.

PubMed

Iftikhar, Imran H; Hoyos, Camilla M; Phillips, Craig L; Magalang, Ulysses J

2015-04-15

We sought to conduct an updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on insulin resistance, as measured by homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), visceral abdominal fat (VAF), and adiponectin. Additionally, we performed a separate meta-analysis and meta-regression of studies on the association of insulin resistance and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). All included studies were searched from PubMed (from conception to March 15, 2014). Data were pooled across all included RCTs as the mean difference in HOMA-IR and VAF, and as the standardized mean difference in the case of adiponectin analysis. From the included case-control studies, data on the difference of HOMA-IR between cases and controls were pooled across all studies, as the standardized mean difference (SMD). There was a significant difference in HOMA-IR (-0.43 [95% CIs: -0.75 to -0.11], p = 0.008) between CPAP treated and non CPAP treated participants. However, there was no significant difference in VAF or adiponectin; (-47.93 [95% CI: -112.58 to 16.72], p = 0.14) and (-0.06 [95% CI: -0.28 to 0.15], p = 0.56), respectively. Meta-analysis of 16 case-control studies showed a pooled SMD in HOMA-IR of 0.51 (95% CI: 0.28 to 0.75), p ≤ 0.001, between cases and controls. The results of our meta-analyses show that CPAP has a favorable effect on insulin resistance. This effect is not associated with any significant changes in total adiponectin levels or amount of VAF. Our findings also confirm a significant association between OSA and insulin resistance. © 2015 American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

The Effects of a Prenatal Course Including PREP for Effective Family Living on Self-Esteem and Parenting Attitudes of Adolescents: A Brief Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Emmons, Rachelle D.; Nystul, Michael S.

1994-01-01

Questionnaires administered to three groups--one treatment, two comparison--of adolescent females indicated no significant difference in self-concept among the three groups. Significant differences were found in parental attitudes, with the treatment group scoring higher on democratic parenting attitudes than the other two groups. (RJM)

Men and women show similar survival outcome in stage IV breast cancer.

PubMed

Wu, San-Gang; Zhang, Wen-Wen; Liao, Xu-Lin; Sun, Jia-Yuan; Li, Feng-Yan; Su, Jing-Jun; He, Zhen-Yu

2017-08-01

To evaluate the clinicopathological features, patterns of distant metastases, and survival outcome between stage IV male breast cancer (MBC) and female breast cancer (FBC). Patients diagnosed with stage IV MBC and FBC between 2010 and 2013 were included using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to analyze risk factors for overall survival (OS). A total of 4997 patients were identified, including 60 MBC and 4937 FBC. Compared with FBC, patients with MBC were associated with a significantly higher rate of estrogen receptor-positive, progesterone receptor-positive, unmarried, lung metastases, and a lower frequency of liver metastases. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed no significant difference in OS between MBC and FBC. In the propensity score-matched population, there was also no difference in survival between MBC and FBC. Multivariate analysis of MBC showed that OS was longer for patients aged 50-69 years and with estrogen receptor-positive disease. There was no significant difference in survival outcome between stage IV MBC and FBC, but significant differences in clinicopathological features and patterns of metastases between the genders. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Gender differences in characteristics and outcomes of smokers diagnosed with psychosis participating in a smoking cessation intervention.

PubMed

Filia, Sacha L; Baker, Amanda L; Gurvich, Caroline T; Richmond, Robyn; Lewin, Terry J; Kulkarni, Jayashri

2014-03-30

While research has identified gender differences in characteristics and outcomes of smokers in the general population, no studies have examined this among smokers with psychosis. This study aimed to explore gender differences among 298 smokers with psychosis (schizophrenia, schizoaffective and bipolar affective disorder) participating in a smoking intervention study. Results revealed a general lack of gender differences on a range of variables for smokers with psychosis including reasons for smoking/quitting, readiness and motivation to quit, use of nicotine replacement therapy, and smoking outcomes including point prevalence or continuous abstinence, and there were no significant predictors of smoking reduction status according to gender at any of the follow-up time-points. The current study did find that female smokers with psychosis were significantly more likely than males to report that they smoked to prevent weight gain. Furthermore, the females reported significantly more reasons for quitting smoking and were more likely to be driven by extrinsic motivators to quit such as immediate reinforcement and social influence, compared to the male smokers with psychosis. Clinical implications include specifically focussing on weight issues and enhancing intrinsic motivation to quit smoking for female smokers with psychosis; and strengthening reasons for quitting among males with psychosis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Statistical Methods for Identifying Sequence Motifs Affecting Point Mutations

PubMed Central

Zhu, Yicheng; Neeman, Teresa; Yap, Von Bing; Huttley, Gavin A.

2017-01-01

Mutation processes differ between types of point mutation, genomic locations, cells, and biological species. For some point mutations, specific neighboring bases are known to be mechanistically influential. Beyond these cases, numerous questions remain unresolved, including: what are the sequence motifs that affect point mutations? How large are the motifs? Are they strand symmetric? And, do they vary between samples? We present new log-linear models that allow explicit examination of these questions, along with sequence logo style visualization to enable identifying specific motifs. We demonstrate the performance of these methods by analyzing mutation processes in human germline and malignant melanoma. We recapitulate the known CpG effect, and identify novel motifs, including a highly significant motif associated with A→G mutations. We show that major effects of neighbors on germline mutation lie within ±2 of the mutating base. Models are also presented for contrasting the entire mutation spectra (the distribution of the different point mutations). We show the spectra vary significantly between autosomes and X-chromosome, with a difference in T→C transition dominating. Analyses of malignant melanoma confirmed reported characteristic features of this cancer, including statistically significant strand asymmetry, and markedly different neighboring influences. The methods we present are made freely available as a Python library https://bitbucket.org/pycogent3/mutationmotif. PMID:27974498

Chlorhexidine mouthwash reduces plaque and gingivitis.

PubMed

Herrera, David

2013-03-01

Medline, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) databases were searched along with the reference lists of all selected studies. Only English language studies were included. Randomised controlled clinical trials comparing chlorhexidine (CHX) to placebo/control mouthrinses for oral hygiene in studies of at least four weeks duration were included. Screening, selection and data abstractions were conducted independently by two reviewers. Where possible meta-analysis of weighted mean differences was carried out using fixed or random effects models where appropriate. Thirty studies were included, with 13 studies contributing to the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis found significant differences favouring CHX for a range of indices; the Plaque Index Silness & Löe, Plaque-Index Quigley & Hein (PIQH), the Gingival Index (GI), Papillary BIeeding Index, Bleeding on Marginal Probing and the Lobene Stain Index. Relative to control, the reduction with CHX for plaque was 33% and for gingivitis 26%. CHX rinsing groups demonstrated significantly more staining. In gingivitis patients, CHX mouthrinses together with OH versus placebo, or control mouthrinse provide significant reductions in plaque and gingivitis scores, but a significant increase in staining score.

Urban/Rural and Gender Differences among Canadian Emerging Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cheah, Charissa S. L.; Trinder, Krista M.; Gokavi, Tara N.

2010-01-01

Although cultural and subcultural differences during the transition to adulthood have been examined, important factors like rural/urban upbringing and gender differences among Canadian emerging adults have been neglected. The present study explored developmentally significant tasks including criteria for adulthood, beliefs about religiosity, and…

Statistical Significance vs. Practical Significance: An Exploration through Health Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rosen, Brittany L.; DeMaria, Andrea L.

2012-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to examine the differences between statistical and practical significance, including strengths and criticisms of both methods, as well as provide information surrounding the application of various effect sizes and confidence intervals within health education research. Provided are recommendations, explanations and…

The Symptomatic Persian Gulf Veterans Protocol: An Analysis of Risk Factors with an Immunologic and Neuropsychiatric Assessment

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-01-01

for these complaints and include exposure and infection with mycoplasma or related organisms and alterations in immunological responsiveness. To...of mycoplasma or ureaplasma organisms by culture and PCR revealed no discernable significant differences. Similarly, no significant differences have...suggest increased exposure to mycoplasma . 6. Body: This study will determine whether specific in-vitro immunological abnormalities or evidence of

Personality and psychotic symptoms as predictors of self-harm and attempted suicide.

PubMed

Del Bello, Valentina; Verdolini, Norma; Pauselli, Luca; Attademo, Luigi; Bernardini, Francesco; Quartesan, Roberto; Moretti, Patrizia

2015-09-01

Nonfatal suicidal behaviours (NSB), including suicide ideation, suicide plan and suicide attempt, constitute a serious problem for public healthcare services. Suicide gesture (SG) which refers to self-injurious behaviour with no intent to die, differs from NSB in a variety of important ways. The aim of this study was to investigate demographic and clinical characteristics of NSB and SG to examine whether self-injurers with intent to die differ significantly from self injurers without such intent. All admissions for NSB and SG to the Psychiatric Inpatient Unit of University / General Hospital Santa Maria della Misericordia, Perugia, Umbria, Italy, from January 2015 to June 2015 were included in a medical record review. Basic descriptive statistics and distributional properties of all variables were first examined. Bivariate analyses were performed using Chi-square tests for group comparisons and t-test for independent samples used when appropriated. The study sample included 38 patients. Of these 23 had committed NSB (13.1%), 15 had commetted SG (8.5%). Number of married NSB was significantly higher than the number of married SG (p=0.08). We found a significant difference between NSB and SG related to the item of impulse control that was poorer in SG than NSB (p=0.010). BPRS items of hostility (p=0.082), suspiciousness (p=0.042) and excitement (p=0.02) were found to be significantly higher in SG than NSB. Borderline personality disorder (p=0.032) and Passive-Aggressive personality disorder (p=0,082) diagnosed by the means of the SCID-II, were more represented in SG than NSB (p=0.044). Schizoid personality disorder was significantly related to NSB (p=0.042). No others significant differences were found. NSB and SG are different for many psychopathological characteristics. These results confirm the importance of classifying individuals on the basis of the intent to die. Additional research is needed to understand and elucidate psychopatological and clinical characteristics of the different categories of self-injurers to find risk factors specific to suicide attempts.

Immunological and Psychological Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage

PubMed Central

2005-01-01

This preliminary investigation compares peripheral blood cell counts including red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), neutrophils, peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs), CD4+, CD8+ and CD16+ lymphocytes, CD4+/CD8+ ratio, hematocrit, humoral parameters including serum interferon-γ and interleukin-6, salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA). Psychological measures including the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) questionnaire and the Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) between recipients (n = 11) of carrier oil massage and aromatherapy massage, which includes sweet almond oil, lavender oil, cypress oil and sweet marjoram oil. Though both STAI and SDS showed a significant reduction (P < 0.01) after treatment with aromatherapy and carrier massage, no difference between the aromatherapy and control massage was observed for STAI and SDS. Aromatherapy, in contrast to control massage, did not significantly reduce RBC count or hematocrit. However, aromatherapy massage showed a significant (P > 0.05) increase in PBLs, possibly due to an increase in CD8+ and CD16+ lymphocytes, which had significantly increased post-treatment (P < 0.01). Consequently, the CD4+/CD8+ ratio decreased significantly (P < 0.01). The paucity of such differences after carrier oil massage suggests that aromatherapy massage could be beneficial in disease states that require augmentation of CD8+ lymphocytes. While this study identifies the immunological benefits of aromatherapy massage, there is a need to validate the findings prospectively in a larger cohort of patients. PMID:15937558

Assessment of Right Atrium Function in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus With Different Pulmonary Artery Systolic Pressures by 2-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography.

PubMed

Sun, Lihua; Wang, Ying; Dong, Yu; Song, Shengda; Luo, Runlan; Li, Guangsen

2018-02-26

To assess right atrium (RA) function of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) by 2-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography. Thirty matched healthy adults were selected as group A. Then, 102 patients with SLE were divided into 3 groups according to the severity of PAH. Group B included 37 patients without PAH (pulmonary artery [PA] systolic pressure ≤ 30 mm Hg); group C included 34 patients with PAH (PA systolic pressure of 30-50 mm Hg); and group D included 31 patients with PAH (PA systolic pressure ≥ 50 mm Hg). Parameters evaluated included RA maximum volume, minimum volume, preatrial contraction volume, passive ejection fraction (EF), and active EF. The global peak longitudinal systolic strain rate and early and late diastolic strain rates of the RA were obtained by 2-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography. No significant differences were found in all parameters between groups B and A (P > .05). The RA maximum volume, minimum volume, preatrial contraction volume, active EF, and late diastolic strain rate in groups C and D were significantly increased compared with those in groups A and B, and the parameters in group D were significantly higher than those in group C (P < .05). Although the RA passive EF, early diastolic strain rate, and systolic strain rate in groups C and D were significantly decreased compared with those in groups A and B, those in group D were significantly lower than those in group C (P < .05). Two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography could effectively assess RA function in patients with SLE who have different severities of PAH. © 2018 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Comparison of efficacy of silicone gel, silicone gel sheeting, and topical onion extract including heparin and allantoin for the treatment of postburn hypertrophic scars.

PubMed

Karagoz, Huseyin; Yuksel, Fuat; Ulkur, Ersin; Evinc, Rahmi

2009-12-01

We compared the efficacy of silicone gel (Scarfade), silicone gel sheet (Epi-Derm), and topical onion extract including heparin and allantoin (Contractubex) for the treatment of hypertrophic scars. Forty-five postburn scars were included in the study. Patients with scars less than 6 months from injury were assigned at random to three groups each containing 15 scars, and their treatment was continued for 6 months. Scars were treated with Scarfade, Epiderm and Contractubex. Scar assessment was performed at the beginning of the treatment, and at the end of the sixth month when the treatment was completed by using the Vancouver scar scale. The difference between before and after treatment scores for each three groups was statistically significant. The difference between Scarfade group and Epi-Derm group was not significant; however, the differences of the other groups (Scarfade-Contractubex, Epiderm-Contractubex) were significant. Silicone products, either in gel or sheet, are superior to Contractubex in the treatment of the hypertrophic scar. The therapist should select the most appropriate agent according to the patient's need and guidelines of these signs.

Behavior Risk Factors Among Russian University Students Majoring in Medicine, Education, and Exercise Science.

PubMed

Anischenko, Aleksander; Gurevich, Konstantin; Arhangelskaya, Anna; Klenov, Michael; Burdukova, Ekaterina; Ogarev, Valrii; Ignatov, Nikolay; Osadchenko, Irina

2016-09-14

To analyze the prevalence of select behavioral risk factors among Russian university students majoring in medicine, education, and exercise science. A total of 834 students from five Federal universities located in four federal regions of Russia were included in the study. The purposive sample included future doctors, school teachers, and fitness trainers. Students were asked specifically about smoking, level of physical activity, and food preferences. To calculate body mass indices (BMIs), waist, hip, weight, and height were also measured. Smoking rates, level of activity, and nutritional habits were significantly different by age, but BMI was not. Smoking rates and BMI were significantly different by gender, but level of activity and nutritional habits were not. Like the differences found by age, smoking rates, level of activity, and nutritional habits were significantly different by ethnicity, but BMI was not. There were significant difference across all behavioral health risk factors by region. The results show significantly higher levels of physical inactivity, consumption of unhealthy foods, and high BMIs among medical students compared with future teachers and wellness instructors (p < .05). In the same time, the smoking levels are the highest among future teachers. The highest prevalence of smoking was found to be associated with gender (for females living Moscow and for males in rural regions), and Russian ethnic group. Tailored programs to prevent common health behavior risk factors among future medical doctors are urgently needed in the Russian Federation. © The Author(s) 2016.

A preclinical evaluation of polypropylene/polylacticacid hybrid meshes for fascial defect repair using a rat abdominal hernia model

PubMed Central

Le Teuff, Isabelle; Huberlant, Stephanie; Carteron, Patrick; Letouzey, Vincent; de Tayrac, Renaud

2017-01-01

Objectives Synthetic mesh surgery for both abdominal and urogenital hernia repair is often unsatisfactory in the long-term due to postoperative complications. We hypothesized that a semi-degradable mesh hybrid may provide more appropriate biocompatibility with comparable mechanical properties. The aim was to compare its in vivo biocompatibility with a commercial polypropylene (PP) mesh. Methods 72 rats were randomly allocated to either our new composite mesh (monofilament PP mesh knitted with polylactic-acid-fibers (PLA)) or to a commercially available PP mesh that was used as a control. 15, 90, and 180 days after implantation into the rat abdomen mesh tissue complexes were analysed for erosion, contraction, foreign body reaction, tissue integration and biomechanical properties. Results No differences were seen in regard to clinical parameters including erosion, contraction or infection rates between the two groups. Biomechanical properties including breaking load, stiffness and deformation did not show any significant differences between the different materials at any timepoint. Macrophage staining did not reveal any significant differences between the two groups or between timepoints either. In regard to collagen I there was significantly less collagen I in the PP group compared to the PP/ PLA group at day 180. Collagen III did not show any significant differences at any timepoint between the two groups. Conclusion A PP/PLA hybrid mesh, leaving a low amount of PP after PLA degradation seems to have comparable biomechanical properties like PP at 180 days due to enhanced collagen production without significant differences in erosion, contraction, herniation or infection rates. PMID:28598983

Self-reported data on sleep quality and psychologic characteristics in patients with myofascial pain and disc displacement versus asymptomatic controls.

PubMed

Sener, Sevgi; Guler, Ozkan

2012-01-01

The aim of this research was to compare the differences between patients with myofascial pain and disc displacement and asymptomatic individuals based on aspects of psychologic status and sleep quality. One hundred thirty patients (81 women, 49 men; mean ages: 30.0 and 31.0 years, respectively) with temporomandibular disorder were selected, and 64 control subjects (32 women, 32 men; mean ages: 27.2 and 27.5 years, respectively) were included in the investigation over a period of 1 year. Clinical diagnosis of 65 patients with myofascial pain and 65 patients with disc displacement with or without limitation and joint pain was determined according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to evaluate sleep quality. Psychologic status was assessed using Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R). Chi-square, Kolmogorov-Smirnov, one-way analysis of variance, and Tukey Honestly Significant Difference post hoc multiple comparison or Tamhane T2 tests were used for statistical analysis. There was a significant difference between patients with myofascial pain and disc displacement regarding somatization and paranoid ideation. No statistically significant difference was found between patients with disc displacements and controls in all dimensions of the SCL-90-R. Total score for the PSQI was statistically significantly different between patients with myofascial pain and controls; no significant differences were found between patients with disc displacement and those with myofascial pain or controls regarding the PSQI. To manage patients with myofascial pain, psychologic assessments including sleep quality should be considered.

Adenosine for postoperative analgesia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Purpose Perioperative infusion of adenosine has been suggested to reduce the requirement for inhalation anesthetics, without causing serious adverse effects in humans. We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluating the effect of adenosine on postoperative analgesia. Methods We retrieved articles in computerized searches of Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases, up to July 2016. We used adenosine, postoperative analgesia, and postoperative pain(s) as key words, with humans, RCT, and CCT as filters. Data of eligible studies were extracted, which included pain scores, cumulative opioid consumption, adverse reactions, and vital signs. Overall incidence rates, relative risk (RR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated employing fixed-effects or random-effects models, depending on the heterogeneity of the included trials. Results In total, 757 patients from 9 studies were included. The overall effect of adenosine on postoperative VAS/VRS scores and postoperative opioid consumption was not significantly different from that of controls (P >0.1). The occurrence of PONV and pruritus was not statistically significantly different between an adenosine and nonremifentanil subgroup (P >0.1), but the rate of PONV occurrence was greater in the remifentanil subgroup (P <0.01). Time to first postoperative analgesic requirement in the adenosine group was not significantly difference from that of the saline group (SMD = 0.07, 95%CI: −0.28 to 0.41, P = 0.71); but this occurred significantly later than with remifentanil (SMD = 1.10, 95%CI: 2.48 to 4.06, P < 0.01). Time to hospital discharge was not significantly different between the control and adenosine groups (P = 0.78). The perioperative systolic blood pressure was significantly lower in the adenosine than in the control group in the mannitol subgroup (P < 0.01). The incidence of bradycardia, transient first- degree atrioventricular block, and tachycardia was not significantly different between the adenosine and control groups (P > 0.1). Conclusion Adenosine has no analgesic effect or prophylactic effect against PONV, but reduce systolic blood pressure and heart rates. Adenosine may benefit patients with hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and tachyarrhythmia, thereby improving cardiac function. PMID:28333936

The Effect of Different Enlistment Ages on First-Term Attrition Rate

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-01

enlistment age, other variables that may affect attrition are also evaluated; gender , marital status, education level, race, annual state ...Unemployment rates by states were included in the regressions. The study concluded that enlistment ages do significantly affect the attrition of...education level; different enlistment age dummies between 18 and 42; female or male; and AFQT Cat. Unemployment rates by states were included in the

Online eLearning for undergraduates in health professions: A systematic review of the impact on knowledge, skills, attitudes and satisfaction

PubMed Central

George, Pradeep Paul; Papachristou, Nikos; Belisario, José Marcano; Wang, Wei; Wark, Petra A; Cotic, Ziva; Rasmussen, Kristine; Sluiter, René; Riboli–Sasco, Eva; Car, Lorainne Tudor; Musulanov, Eve Marie; Molina, Joseph Antonio; Heng, Bee Hoon; Zhang, Yanfeng; Wheeler, Erica Lynette; Al Shorbaji, Najeeb; Majeed, Azeem; Car, Josip

2014-01-01

Background Health systems worldwide are facing shortages in health professional workforce. Several studies have demonstrated the direct correlation between the availability of health workers, coverage of health services, and population health outcomes. To address this shortage, online eLearning is increasingly being adopted in health professionals’ education. To inform policy–making, in online eLearning, we need to determine its effectiveness. Methods We performed a systematic review of the effectiveness of online eLearning through a comprehensive search of the major databases for randomised controlled trials that compared online eLearning to traditional learning or alternative learning methods. The search period was from January 2000 to August 2013. We included articles which primarily focused on students' knowledge, skills, satisfaction and attitudes toward eLearning and cost-effectiveness and adverse effects as secondary outcomes. Two reviewers independently extracted data from the included studies. Due to significant heterogeneity among the included studies, we presented our results as a narrative synthesis. Findings Fifty–nine studies, including 6750 students enrolled in medicine, dentistry, nursing, physical therapy and pharmacy studies, met the inclusion criteria. Twelve of the 50 studies testing knowledge gains found significantly higher gains in the online eLearning intervention groups compared to traditional learning, whereas 27 did not detect significant differences or found mixed results. Eleven studies did not test for differences. Six studies detected significantly higher skill gains in the online eLearning intervention groups, whilst 3 other studies testing skill gains did not detect differences between groups and 1 study showed mixed results. Twelve studies tested students' attitudes, of which 8 studies showed no differences in attitudes or preferences for online eLearning. Students' satisfaction was measured in 29 studies, 4 studies showed higher satisfaction for online eLearning and 20 studies showed no difference in satisfaction between online eLearning and traditional learning. Risk of bias was high for several of the included studies. Conclusion The current evidence base suggests that online eLearning is equivalent, possibly superior to traditional learning. These findings present a potential incentive for policy makers to cautiously encourage its adoption, while respecting the heterogeneity among the studies. PMID:24976965

Online eLearning for undergraduates in health professions: A systematic review of the impact on knowledge, skills, attitudes and satisfaction.

PubMed

George, Pradeep Paul; Papachristou, Nikos; Belisario, José Marcano; Wang, Wei; Wark, Petra A; Cotic, Ziva; Rasmussen, Kristine; Sluiter, René; Riboli-Sasco, Eva; Tudor Car, Lorainne; Musulanov, Eve Marie; Molina, Joseph Antonio; Heng, Bee Hoon; Zhang, Yanfeng; Wheeler, Erica Lynette; Al Shorbaji, Najeeb; Majeed, Azeem; Car, Josip

2014-06-01

Health systems worldwide are facing shortages in health professional workforce. Several studies have demonstrated the direct correlation between the availability of health workers, coverage of health services, and population health outcomes. To address this shortage, online eLearning is increasingly being adopted in health professionals' education. To inform policy-making, in online eLearning, we need to determine its effectiveness. We performed a systematic review of the effectiveness of online eLearning through a comprehensive search of the major databases for randomised controlled trials that compared online eLearning to traditional learning or alternative learning methods. The search period was from January 2000 to August 2013. We included articles which primarily focused on students' knowledge, skills, satisfaction and attitudes toward eLearning and cost-effectiveness and adverse effects as secondary outcomes. Two reviewers independently extracted data from the included studies. Due to significant heterogeneity among the included studies, we presented our results as a narrative synthesis. Fifty-nine studies, including 6750 students enrolled in medicine, dentistry, nursing, physical therapy and pharmacy studies, met the inclusion criteria. Twelve of the 50 studies testing knowledge gains found significantly higher gains in the online eLearning intervention groups compared to traditional learning, whereas 27 did not detect significant differences or found mixed results. Eleven studies did not test for differences. Six studies detected significantly higher skill gains in the online eLearning intervention groups, whilst 3 other studies testing skill gains did not detect differences between groups and 1 study showed mixed results. Twelve studies tested students' attitudes, of which 8 studies showed no differences in attitudes or preferences for online eLearning. Students' satisfaction was measured in 29 studies, 4 studies showed higher satisfaction for online eLearning and 20 studies showed no difference in satisfaction between online eLearning and traditional learning. Risk of bias was high for several of the included studies. The current evidence base suggests that online eLearning is equivalent, possibly superior to traditional learning. These findings present a potential incentive for policy makers to cautiously encourage its adoption, while respecting the heterogeneity among the studies.

Fashion advertisements: a comparison of viewers' perceptual and affective responses to illustrated and photographed stimuli.

PubMed

Kimle, P A; Fiore, A M

1992-12-01

The perceptual and affective responses of 44 women to actual illustrated and photographed fashion advertisements during focused interviews were explored. Content analysis methods identified categories of response; frequency of response categories for the two media were compared using Fisher's z tests. Significant differences in perceptual responses included greater visual interest created by the use of color in photographs, greater interest in layout and design features of the illustrations, and interest in characteristics of the models in the photographs. Affective response differences included greater preference for photographic advertisements and the garments in them. Contrary to suggestions from professionals in fashion advertising, no significant differences were found in viewers' perceptions of information about the products in the advertisements or perceptions of meaning and aesthetic response.

Open vs Laparoscopic Simple Prostatectomy: A Comparison of Initial Outcomes and Cost.

PubMed

Demir, Aslan; Günseren, Kadir Ömür; Kordan, Yakup; Yavaşçaoğlu, İsmet; Vuruşkan, Berna Aytaç; Vuruşkan, Hakan

2016-08-01

We compared the cost-effectiveness of laparoscopic simple prostatectomy (LSP) vs open prostatectomy (OP). A total of 73 men treated for benign prostatic hyperplasia were enrolled for OP and LSP in groups 1 and 2, respectively. The findings were recorded perioperative, including operation time (OT), blood lost, transfusion rate, conversion to the open surgery, and the complications according to the Clavien Classification. The postoperative findings, including catheterization and drainage time, the amount of analgesic used, hospitalization time, postoperative complications, international prostate symptom score (IPSS) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores, the extracted prostate weight, the uroflowmeter, as well as postvoiding residual (PVR) and quality of life (QoL) score at the postoperative third month, were analyzed. The cost of both techniques was also compared statistically. No statistical differences were found in the preoperative parameters, including age, IPSS and QoL score, maximum flow rate (Qmax), PVR, IIEF score, and prostate volumes, as measured by transabdominal ultrasonography. No statistical differences were established in terms of the OT and the weight of the extracted prostate. No differences were established with regard to complications according to Clavien's classification in groups. However, the bleeding rate was significantly lower in group 2. The drainage, catheterization, and hospitalization times and the amount of analgesics were significantly lower in the second group. The postoperative third month findings were not different statistically. Only the Qmax values were significantly greater in group 2. While there was only a $52 difference between groups with regard to operation cost, this difference was significantly different. The use of LSP for the prostates over 80 g is more effective than the OP in terms of OT, bleeding amount, transfusion rates, catheterization time, drain removal time, hospitalization time, consumed analgesic amount, and Qmax values. On the other hand, the mean cost of the LSP is higher than OP. Better effectiveness comes with higher cost.

Clinical periodontal variables in patients with and without dementia-a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Maldonado, Alejandra; Laugisch, Oliver; Bürgin, Walter; Sculean, Anton; Eick, Sigrun

2018-06-22

Considering the increasing number of elderly people, dementia has gained an important role in today's society. Although the contributing factors for dementia have not been fully understood, chronic periodontitis (CP) seems to have a possible link to dementia. To conduct a systematic review including meta-analysis in order to assess potential differences in clinical periodontal variables between patients with dementia and non-demented individuals. The following focused question was evaluated: is periodontitis associated with dementia? Electronic searches in two databases, MEDLINE and EMBASE, were conducted. Meta-analysis was performed with the collected data in order to find a statistically significant difference in clinical periodontal variables between the group of dementia and the cognitive normal controls. Forty-two articles remained for full text reading. Finally, seven articles met the inclusion criteria and only five studies provided data suitable for meta-analysis. Periodontal probing depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), gingival bleeding index (GBI), clinical attachment level (CAL), and plaque index (PI) were included as periodontal variables in the meta-analysis. Each variable revealed a statistically significant difference between the groups. In an attempt to reveal an overall difference between the periodontal variables in dementia patients and non-demented individuals, the chosen variables were transformed into units that resulted in a statistically significant overall difference (p < 0.00001). The current findings indicate that compared to systemically healthy individuals, demented patients show significantly worse clinical periodontal variables. However, further epidemiological studies including a high numbers of participants, the use of exact definitions both for dementia and chronic periodontitis and adjusted for cofounders is warranted. These findings appear to support the putative link between CP and dementia. Consequently, the need for periodontal screening and treatment of elderly demented people should be emphasized.

Timing of motor cortical stimulation during planar robotic training differentially impacts neuroplasticity in older adults.

PubMed

Massie, Crystal L; Kantak, Shailesh S; Narayanan, Priya; Wittenberg, George F

2015-05-01

The objective was to determine how stimulation timing applied during reaching influenced neuroplasticity related to practice. Older adult participants were studied to increase relevance for stroke rehabilitation and aging. Sixteen participants completed 3 sessions of a reaching intervention with 480 planar robotic movement trials. Sub-threshold, single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulations (TMS) were delivered during the late reaction time (LRT) period, when muscle activity exceeded a threshold (EMG-triggered), or randomly. Assessments included motor evoked potentials (MEP), amplitude, and direction of supra-threshold TMS-evoked movements and were calculated as change scores from baseline. The direction of TMS-evoked movements significantly changed after reaching practice (p<0.05), but was not significantly different between conditions. Movement amplitude changes were significantly different between conditions (p<0.05), with significant increases following the LRT and random conditions. MEP for elbow extensors and flexors, and the shoulder muscle that opposed the practice movement were significantly different between conditions with positive changes following LRT, negative changes following EMG-triggered, and no changes following the random condition. Motor performance including movement time and peak velocity significantly improved following the training but did not differ between conditions. The responsiveness of the motor cortex to stimulation was affected positively by stimulation during the late motor response period and negatively during the early movement period, when stimulation was combined with robotic reach practice. The sensitivity of the activated motor cortex to additional stimulation is highly dynamic. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Differences in Velopharyngeal Structure during Speech among Asians Revealed by 3-Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging Movie Mode.

PubMed

Nunthayanon, Kulthida; Honda, Ei-ichi; Shimazaki, Kazuo; Ohmori, Hiroko; Inoue-Arai, Maristela Sayuri; Kurabayashi, Tohru; Ono, Takashi

2015-01-01

Different bony structures can affect the function of the velopharyngeal muscles. Asian populations differ morphologically, including the morphologies of their bony structures. The purpose of this study was to compare the velopharyngeal structures during speech in two Asian populations: Japanese and Thai. Ten healthy Japanese and Thai females (five each) were evaluated with a 3-Tesla (3 T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner while they produced vowel-consonant-vowel syllable (/asa/). A gradient-echo sequence, fast low-angle shot with segmented cine and parallel imaging technique was used to obtain sagittal images of the velopharyngeal structures. MRI was carried out in real time during speech production, allowing investigations of the time-to-time changes in the velopharyngeal structures. Thai subjects had a significantly longer hard palate and produced shorter consonant than Japanese subjects. The velum of the Thai participants showed significant thickening during consonant production and their retroglossal space was significantly wider at rest, whereas the dimensional change during task performance was similar in the two populations. The 3 T MRI movie method can be used to investigate velopharyngeal function and diagnose velopharyngeal insufficiency. The racial differences may include differences in skeletal patterns and soft-tissue morphology that result in functional differences for the affected structures.

Knot positioning during McDonald cervical cerclage, does it make a difference? A cohort study.

PubMed

Atia, Hytham; Ellaithy, Mohamed; Altraigey, Ahmed; Ibrahim, Heba

2018-05-15

To study the effect of McDonald cerclage knot position on the different maternal and neonatal outcomes. This historical cohort study included women with singleton pregnancy who had a prophylactic McDonald cervical cerclage between 1 May 2010 and 31 September 2017. Maternal and neonatal outcome parameters were compared between the anterior and posterior knot cerclage procedures. The primary outcome measure was the rate of term birth. 550 Women had a prophylactic McDonald cervical cerclage, 306 with anterior knot (Group A) and 244 with posterior knot (Group B). There were no statistically significant differences regarding gestational age (GA) at delivery (36.3 ± 4.2 versus 35.8 ± 5.3 for groups A and B respectively), term birth rate, post-cerclage cervical length, symptomatic vaginitis, urinary tract infection, difficult cerclage removal and cervical lacerations. Similarly, there were no statistically significant differences as regards the studied neonatal outcomes including take home babies, neonatal intensive care admission, respiratory distress syndrome and neonatal sepsis. Survival analysis on GA at delivery demonstrated no statistically significant difference as regards the proportion of term deliveries in the anterior and posterior knot cerclage groups (log-rank test p-value = .478). Knot positioning during McDonald cervical cerclage, anteriorly or posteriorly, didn't significantly impact the studied maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Differences between Students with and without Disabilities in College Counseling

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Varkula, Lindsay C.; Beauchemin, James D.; Facemire, Sandra D.; Bucher, Emily C.

2017-01-01

This study examined differences between college students with and without disabilities who utilized college counseling center services. Although we found no differences between students with (n = 234, 9.2%) and without (n = 2,308, 90.8%) disabilities on number of counseling sessions attended, significant findings included: students with…

Gender differences in human single neuron responses to male emotional faces.

PubMed

Newhoff, Morgan; Treiman, David M; Smith, Kris A; Steinmetz, Peter N

2015-01-01

Well-documented differences in the psychology and behavior of men and women have spurred extensive exploration of gender's role within the brain, particularly regarding emotional processing. While neuroanatomical studies clearly show differences between the sexes, the functional effects of these differences are less understood. Neuroimaging studies have shown inconsistent locations and magnitudes of gender differences in brain hemodynamic responses to emotion. To better understand the neurophysiology of these gender differences, we analyzed recordings of single neuron activity in the human brain as subjects of both genders viewed emotional expressions. This study included recordings of single-neuron activity of 14 (6 male) epileptic patients in four brain areas: amygdala (236 neurons), hippocampus (n = 270), anterior cingulate cortex (n = 256), and ventromedial prefrontal cortex (n = 174). Neural activity was recorded while participants viewed a series of avatar male faces portraying positive, negative or neutral expressions. Significant gender differences were found in the left amygdala, where 23% (n = 15∕66) of neurons in men were significantly affected by facial emotion, vs. 8% (n = 6∕76) of neurons in women. A Fisher's exact test comparing the two ratios found a highly significant difference between the two (p < 0.01). These results show specific differences between genders at the single-neuron level in the human amygdala. These differences may reflect gender-based distinctions in evolved capacities for emotional processing and also demonstrate the importance of including subject gender as an independent factor in future studies of emotional processing by single neurons in the human amygdala.

The impact of a science-based integrated instructional protocol on the motivation, reading comprehension, and science achievement of fourth and fifth graders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stephens, Kathy E.

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of implementing an integrated instructional protocol of science-based informational texts as teacher read alouds, student independent reading, and written journal responses on motivation, reading comprehension, and science achievement of fourth- and fifth-grade students with attention to specific student groups, including gender and ethnicities. A mixed methods research design included a 12-week intervention conducted with 68 fourth and fifth graders and 30 nonintervention fourth and fifth graders. Participating fourth and fifth graders completed the comprehension subtest of the Gates-MacGinitie Reading Test ([GMRT] MacGinitie, MacGinitie, Maria, & Dreyer, 2000) and the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills ([TAKS] Texas Education Agency [TEA], 2005a). The Reading Survey of the Motivation to Read Profile ([MRP], Gambrell, Palmer, Codling, & Mazzoni, 1996) served as another quantitative data source. Qualitative data sources included classroom observations, key informant interviews, and student journal entries. The GMRT results indicated that the intervention fourth graders demonstrated the largest growth in reading comprehension achievement. Significant differences were noted by GMRT results between the intervention and nonintervention fourth graders. A significant difference was found between fourth-grade males and females on the GMRT, with a larger gain posted by the females. No significant differences were found on the GMRT in fifth grade Reading TAKS results indicated a significant difference between intervention fourth-grade Hispanic and African American students, while fifth-grade Science TAKS results indicated no significant differences. The MRP Reading Survey results indicated no significant differences; however, fourth-grade Hispanic and fifth-grade male students demonstrated significant growth. Classroom observations documented the progress of the 12-week intervention; 9 primary instructional and behavioral themes with 40 subcategories were discovered using open coding (Berg, 2004). Data were collected from the MRP Conversational Interview (Gambrell et al., 1996) with 12 key informants, and their journal entries provided evidence of the impact of the instructional protocol. Findings from this study seemed to confirm that students may experience improvement in reading comprehension after participation in an integrated instructional protocol. Findings also suggested gaps in minority ethnicities may be minimized, while female students continued to outscore male students.

Cine phase-contrast MRI evaluation of normal aqueductal cerebrospinal fluid flow according to sex and age.

PubMed

Unal, Ozkan; Kartum, Alp; Avcu, Serhat; Etlik, Omer; Arslan, Halil; Bora, Aydin

2009-12-01

The aim of this study was cerebrospinal flow quantification in the cerebral aqueduct using cine phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique in both sexes and five different age groups to provide normative data. Sixty subjects with no cerebral pathology were included in this study. Subjects were divided into five age groups: < or =14 years, 15-24 years, 25-34 years, 35-44 years, and > or =45 years. Phase, rephase, and magnitude images were acquired by 1.5 T MR unit at the level of cerebral aqueduct with spoiled gradient echo through-plane, which is a cine phase-contrast sequence. At this level, peak flow velocity (cm/s), average flow rate (cm/ s), average flow (L/min), volumes in cranial and caudal directions (mL), and net volumes (mL) were studied. There was a statistically significant difference in peak flow between the age group of < or =14 years and the older age groups. There were no statistically significant differences in average velocity, cranial and caudal volume, net volume, and average flow parameters among different age groups. Statistically significant differences were not detected in flow parameters between sexes. When using cine-phase contrast MRI in the cerebral aqueduct, only the peak velocity showed a statistically significant difference between age groups; it was higher in subjects aged < or =14 years than those in older age groups. When performing age-dependent clinical studies including adolescents, this should be taken into consideration.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies assessing the efficacy of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone therapy for children with cryptorchidism.

PubMed

Li, Tao; Gao, Liang; Chen, Peng; Bu, Siyuan; Cao, Dehong; Yang, Lu; Wei, Qiang

2016-05-01

To assess the efficacy of intranasal luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) therapy for cryptorchidism. Eligible studies were identified by two reviewers using PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Primary outcomes were complete testicular descent rate, complete testicular descent rate for nonpalpable testis, and pre-scrotal and inguinal testis. Secondary outcomes included testicular descent with different medicines strategy and a subgroup analysis. Pooled data including the 1255 undescended testes showed that complete testicular descent rate was 20.9 % in LHRH group versus 5.6 % in the placebo group, which was significantly different [relative risk (RR) 3.94, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 2.14-7.28, P < 0.0001]. There was also a significant difference in the incidence of pre-scrotal and inguinal position testis descent, with 22.8 % in the LHRH group versus 3.6 % in the placebo group (RR 5.79, 95 % CI 2.94-11.39, P < 0.00001). However, side effects were more frequent in the LHRH group (RR 2.61, 95 % CI 1.52-4.49, P = 0.0005). There were no significant differences for nonpalpable testes. LHRH had significant benefits on testicular descent, particularly for inguinal and pre-scrotal testes, which was also accompanied by temporary slight side effects.

A metabolomic evaluation of the phytochemical composition of tomato juices being used in human clinical trials.

PubMed

Cichon, Morgan J; Riedl, Ken M; Schwartz, Steven J

2017-08-01

Juices from the traditional red tomato and a unique tangerine tomato variety are being investigated as health promoting foods in human clinical trials. However, it is unknown how the tangerine and red tomato juices differ in biologically relevant phytochemicals beyond carotenoids. Here liquid-chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry metabolomics was used to evaluate broadly the similarities and differences in carotenoids and other phytochemicals between red and tangerine tomato juices intended for clinical interventions. This untargeted approach was successful in the rapid detection and extensive characterization of phytochemicals belonging to various compound classes. The tomato juices were found to differ significantly in a number of phytochemicals, including carotenoids, chlorophylls, neutral lipids, and cinnamic acid derivatives. The largest differences were in carotenoids, including lycopene, phytoene, phytofluene, neurosporene, and ζ-carotene. Smaller, but significant, differences were observed in polar phytochemicals, such as chlorogenic acid, hydroxyferulic acid, phloretin-di-C-glycoside, and isopropylmalic acid. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ethnic differences in lens parameters measured by ocular biometry in a cataract surgery population.

PubMed

Wang, Dajiang; Amoozgar, Behzad; Porco, Travis; Wang, Zhen; Lin, Shan C

2017-01-01

To investigate whether differences exist in lens position and other lens parameters among major ethnic groups with cataractous eyes, which may help explain racial differences in angle closure risk. This retrospective, cross-sectional study included 807 adult patients who had cataract surgery between years 2014 and 2016 at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Adult patients of white, Asian, Hispanic and African-American ethnicity were included. Lens position (LP), defined as anterior chamber depth (ACD) + 1/2 lens thickness (LT), was assessed using measurements from optical biometry. Other assessed biometric parameters included axial length (AL), relative lens position (RLP) (defined as LP/AL), and anterior chamber depth (ACD). A total of 807 patients and 1361 eyes were included in this study from a database of patients having cataract surgery. Mean age was 69.2 years (age range from 18 to 101 years old), and 60.3% of patients were women. The mean LP measurements were 5.54±0.32 mm for white, 5.38±0.32 mm for Asian, 5.32±0.30 mm for Hispanic, and 5.40±0.28 mm for African-American participants. After adjusting for age, sex, and AL, significant differences were found when comparing LP in paired comparisons among White cohort with Asians (P<0.001), Hispanics (P<0.001) and African-Americans (P = 0.003). Additionally, when comparing RLP, similar significant results were found when comparing Whites with Asians (P<0.001), Hispanics (P<0.001) and African-Americans (P = 0.002). Lastly, pair-wise comparison of LT between ethnic groups showed significant differences while comparing Asians with Whites (P = 0.001) and Asians with African-Americans (P<0.001). The results of this study suggest that the LP of Hispanic, Asian, and African-American patients are significantly smaller than that of White patients, and among all ethnic groups, Hispanics and after Asians have the smallest LP (P<0.001) and RLP (P<0.001). These findings may have implications for the relative risk of angle closure and the potential IOP response after cataract surgery among different ethnic groups.

Gender Differences in Hip Anatomy: Possible Implications for Injury Tolerance in Frontal Collisions

PubMed Central

Wang, Stewart C.; Brede, Chris; Lange, David; Poster, Craig S.; Lange, Aaron W.; Kohoyda-Inglis, Carla; Sochor, Mark R.; Ipaktchi, Kyros; Rowe, Stephen A.; Patel, Smita; Garton, Hugh J.

2004-01-01

Male occupants in frontal motor vehicle collisions have reduced tolerance for hip fractures than females in similar crashes. We studied 92 adult pelvic CT scans and found significant gender differences in bony pelvic geometry, including acetabular socket depth and femoral head width. Significant differences were also noted in the presentation angle of the acetabular socket to frontal loading. The observed differences provide biomechanical insight into why hip injury tolerance may differ with gender. These findings have implications for the future design of vehicle countermeasures as well as finite element models capable of more accurately predicting body tolerances to injury. PMID:15319131

Quantitation of Radiation Induced Deletion and Recombination Events Associated with Repeated DNA Sequences

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sinden, Richard R.

1999-01-01

Manned exploration of space exposes the explorers to a complex and novel radiation environment. The galactic cosmic ray and trapped belt radiation (predominantly proton) components of this environment are relatively constant, and the variations with the solar cycle are well understood and predictable. The level of radiation encountered in low earth orbits is determined by several factors, including altitude, inclination of orbit with respect to the equator, and spacecraft shielding. At higher altitudes, and on a Mars mission, the level of radiation exposure will increase significantly. A significant fraction of the dose may be delivered by solar particle events which vary dramatically in dose rate and incident particle spectrum. High-LET radiation is of particular concern. High-LET radiation, a component of galactic cosmic rays (GCR), is comprised of a variety of charged particles of various energies (10 MeV/n to 10 GeV/n), including about 87% photons, 12% helium ions, and heavy ions (including iron). These high energy particles can cause significant damage to target cells. The different particle types and energies result in different patterns of energy deposition at the molecular and cellular level in a primary target cell. They can also cause significant damage to other, nearby cells as a result of secondary particles. Protons, for instance produce secondaries that include photons, neutrons, pions, heavy particles, as well as gamma rays. Heavy ions deposit energy in a "track" in which the magnitude of the damage varies as the particle loses energy. Heavy ions produce secondary delta rays, or electrons. The distribution of damage through tissue is described by a Bragg curve which will be characteristic for different energies. Needless to say there are differences in the RBE of protons and a particles. High-LET heavy ions are particularly damaging to cells as they do continual damage throughout their track. Differences in these energy deposition patterns can significantly influence the nature of DNA damage and the ability of cellular systems to repair such damage. It has been suspected that these differences also affect the spatial distribution of damage within the DNA of the interphase cell nucleus and produce corresponding differences in endpoints related to health effects. The interaction of a single high-LET particle with chromatin has been suggested to cause multiple double strand breaks within a relatively short distance. In part this is due to the organization of DNA into chromatin fibers in which distant regions of the DNA helix can be physically juxtaposed by the various levels of coiling of the DNA. This prediction was confirmed by the detection of the generation of double strand DNA fragments of 100-2000 bp following exposure to high-LET ions (including iron).

Differences between Western and Asian type 2 diabetes patients in the incidence of vascular complications and mortality: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials on lowering blood glucose.

PubMed

Li, Jing; Dong, Yajie; Wu, Taixiang; Tong, Nanwei

2016-11-01

Differences exist between Western and Asian people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The aim of the present systematic review was to determine whether there are differences in chronic diabetic vascular complications (CDVCs) and mortality between Western and Asian patients with T2D. Three databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane library) were searched for publications from 1966 to March 2013 describing interventional randomized control trials (RCTs) targeting to lower blood glucose levels. The RCTs included had follow-up durations of at least 4 years as an endpoint or in their initial design, analyzed effects on mortality and/or CDVCs in T2D and compared differences in mortality and/or CDVCs among patients of different ethnicities. Two studies, including 19 439 patients with advanced diabetes, were eligible for analysis. Patients were divided into those of Western (including Australia and New Zealand) and Asian ethnicities. The incidence of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular death, and major coronary events was significantly higher in Western than Asian patients, whereas the incidence of major cerebrovascular events, microvascular events (except for peripheral neuropathy), new or worsening nephropathy, and retinopathy was significantly lower in Western patients. There were no-between group differences in macrovascular events, including cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and non-fatal stroke. There are differences in CDVCs and mortality rates between Western and Asian patients with advanced T2D, primarily due to ethnicity-specific factors (e.g. different genetic background, lifestyle). Knowledge of these disparities may allow more effective monitoring and management of individual patients based on ethnic differences. © 2015 Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Prevalence of health conditions and predictors of mortality in oldest old Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic whites.

PubMed

Samper-Ternent, Rafael; Kuo, Yong Fang; Ray, Laura A; Ottenbacher, Kenneth J; Markides, Kyriakos S; Al Snih, Soham

2012-03-01

The oldest old represent a unique group of older adults. This group is rapidly growing worldwide and yet there are gaps in the knowledge related to their health condition. Ethnic differences in disease prevalence and mortality must be understood to better care for the oldest old. To compare prevalence of common health conditions and predictors of mortality in oldest old Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic whites. This study included 568 community-dwelling Mexican Americans (MA) aged 85 years and older from the Hispanic Established Population for the Epidemiological Study of the Elderly 2004-2005 and 933 non-Hispanic whites (NHW) of the same age from the Health and Retirement Study 2004. Measures included sociodemographic variables, self-reported medical conditions, activities of daily living (ADLs), and instrumental activities of daily living. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine 2-year mortality in both populations. Heart attack was significantly more prevalent in oldest old NHW compared with MA, regardless of gender. Conversely, diabetes was significantly more prevalent among MA men and women compared with their NHW counterparts. Compared with NHW men, MA men had significantly higher prevalence of cognitive impairment and hypertension. Additionally, prevalence of hip fracture was significantly higher for MA women compared with NHW women. Significant differences in ADL disability were observed only between both groups of women, whereas significant differences in instrumental activities of daily living disability were observed only between men. MA men and women had higher prevalence of obesity compared with NHW. Predictors of 2-year mortality for both ethnic groups included older age, male gender, and ADL disability. Cognitive impairment was a mortality predictor only for NHW. Similarly, lung disease was a predictor only for MA. Health-related conditions that affect the oldest old vary by gender and ethnicity and entail careful evaluation and monitoring in the clinical setting. Better care requires inclusion of such differences as part of the comprehensive evaluation of the oldest old adults. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Effect of Coffee and Caffeine Ingestion on Resistance Exercise Performance.

PubMed

Richardson, Darren L; Clarke, Neil D

2016-10-01

Richardson, DL and Clarke, ND. Effect of coffee and caffeine ingestion on resistance exercise performance. J Strength Cond Res 30(10): 2892-2900, 2016-The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of ingesting caffeine dose-matched anhydrous caffeine, coffee, or decaffeinated coffee plus anhydrous caffeine during resistance exercise on performance. Nine resistance-trained men (mean ± SD: age, 24 ± 2 years; weight, 84 ± 8 kg; height, 180 ± 8 cm) completed a squat and bench press exercise protocol at 60% 1 repetition maximum until failure on 5 occasions consuming 0.15 g·kg caffeinated coffee (COF), 0.15 g·kg decaffeinated coffee (DEC), 0.15 g·kg decaffeinated coffee plus 5 mg·kg anhydrous caffeine (D + C), 5 mg·kg anhydrous caffeine (CAF), or a placebo (PLA). Felt arousal and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were used to assess perceptual variables and heart rate (HR) to assess physiological responses between trials. There were significant differences in total weight lifted for the squat between conditions (p < 0.01; (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.54) with a greater amount lifted during D + C compared with DEC (p < 0.01), CAF (p ≤ 0.05), and PLA (p ≤ 0.05) conditions. Total weight lifted during the COF condition was significantly greater than that lifted under PLA (p < 0.01), although not significantly greater than the amount of weight lifted during the DEC condition (p = 0.082). No significant differences were observed in total weight lifted in the bench press protocol between conditions (p = 0.186; (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.17). Significant differences in HR (p < 0.01; (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.39) but not RPE (squat: p = 0.690; (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.07; bench press: p = 0.165; (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.18) and felt arousal (p = 0.056; (Equation is included in full-text article.)= 0.24) were observed between conditions. Coffee and decaffeinated coffee plus caffeine have the ability to improve performance during a resistance exercise protocol, although possibly not over multiple bouts.

Comparison between Awake Endoscopy and Computed Tomography to Define Lingual Tonsil Hypertrophy.

PubMed

Tang, Jessica A; Gorelick, Gleb; Friedman, Michael

2017-11-01

Objectives To analyze correlations between endoscopic lingual tonsil grade (LTG) by the Friedman Lingual Tonsil Hypertrophy grading system and computed tomography (CT) measurements of lingual tonsil thickness (LTT). Study Design Retrospective chart review. Setting Single-center database, September 2016 to April 2017. Subjects and Methods Patients who received CT covering base of tongue and endoscopic LTG were included. LTT was measured on axial and sagittal CT. LTT measurements were compared against endoscopic LTG. One-way analysis of variance with Tukey's post hoc adjustment for multiple comparisons was performed. Results Seventy-five charts were included for a total of 150 LTT measurements. Axial CT measurements of LTG 1 and LTG 2 were each significantly different from LTG 3 ( P < .001 for both), and LTG 1 and LTG 2 also differed significantly ( P = .010). Mean sagittal CT measurements were significantly different between LTG 1 and LTG 3 ( P < .001) and between LTG 2 and LTG 3 ( P = .002) but not between LTG 1 and LTG 2 ( P = .186). Those without lingual tonsil hypertrophy had a mean axial CT thickness of 6.45 ± 1.39 mm and mean sagittal CT thickness of 6.58 ± 1.53 mm, which was significantly different from both the mean axial CT thickness of 8.48 ± 1.52 mm and the mean sagittal CT thickness of 8.07 ± 1.16 mm in the LTG 3 group ( P < .001 for both). Threshold analysis showed a potential cutoff of approximately 7.5 mm on axial and sagittal CT for defining clinically significant lingual tonsil hypertrophy. Conclusion Awake endoscopy grading of lingual tonsil hypertrophy is a subjective measurement that seems to correlate with objective CT measurements. LTT measurements of LTG 1 and LTG 2 on awake endoscopy differed significantly from LTG 3.

Desert Scrublands

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jones, L.L.C.; Halama, K.J.; Lovich, R.E.

2016-01-01

Desert scrublands comprise the lower to mid-elevation portions of four different ecosystems including the Chihuahuan, Great Basin, Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. Together the area inside their outer boundaries includes over 8% of the surface area of the United States. Despite significant differences in the flora and fauna of these bioregions they all share the common trait of being arid shrub-steppe ecosystems, receiving, on average, less than 254 mm of rain per year. The austere nature of these landscapes belies their significant biodiversity, the amazing behavioral and physiological adaptations of the biota, and the fragility of the ecosystems to human disturbances. For example, the Mojave Desert alone has at least 250 species of ephemeral plants, mostly winter annuals, and up to 90% are endemic.

Opiate treatment for opiate withdrawal in newborn infants.

PubMed

Osborn, D A; Cole, M J; Jeffery, H E

2002-01-01

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) due to opiate withdrawal may result in disruption of the mother-infant relationship, sleep-wake abnormalities, feeding difficulties, weight loss and seizures. Treatments used to ameliorate symptoms and reduce morbidity include opiates, sedatives and non-pharmacological treatments. To assess the effectiveness and safety of using an opiate, compared to a sedative or non-pharmacological treatment, for treatment of NAS due to withdrawal from opiates. The evidence for use of different opiates was assessed in subgroup analyses. The standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group including searches (up to March 2002) of the Oxford Database of Perinatal Trials, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2002), MEDLINE (1966-March 2002), previous reviews including cross references, abstracts, conferences and symposia proceedings, expert informants, journal handsearching mainly in the English language. Trials enrolling infants with NAS born to mothers with an opiate dependence, with > 80% follow up and using random or quasi-random allocation to opiate or control. Control could include an opiate, sedative or non-pharmacological treatment. Each author assessed study quality and extracted data independently. Primary outcomes included control of symptoms, seizure occurrence, mortality and neurodevelopment. Treatment effect was expressed using relative risk (RR), risk difference (RD), mean difference (MD) and weighted mean difference (WMD). Meta-analysis was performed using a fixed effect model. Six studies enrolling a total of 511 infants met inclusion criteria (Carin 1983, Finnegan 1984, Kaltenbach 1986, Kandall 1983, Khoo 1995, Madden 1977); however, two (Finnegan 1984, Kaltenbach 1986) may be sequential reports that include some identical patients. The studies enrolled infants of mothers who had used opiates with or without other drugs during pregnancy. Methodological concerns included the use of quasi-random rather than random patient allocation methods in three studies, and sizeable, largely unexplained differences in reported numbers allocated to each group in four studies. Opiate (morphine) vs supportive care only: One study (Khoo 1995) found no significant effect on treatment failure (RR 1.29, 95% CI 0.41, 4.07), a significant increase in hospital stay (MD 15.0 days, 95% CI 8.9, 21.1) and significant reductions in time to regain birthweight (MD -2.8 days, 95% -5.3, -0.3) and duration of supportive care (MD -197.2 minutes/day, 95% CI -274.2, -120.3). Opiate vs phenobarbital: Meta-analysis of three studies found no significant difference in treatment failure (typical RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.46, 1.32). One of these studies (Finnegan 1984) reported that opiate treatment resulted in a significant reduction in treatment failure among infants of mothers who had used only opiates; however, as this was a post-hoc analysis, this result should be interpreted with caution. One study (Kandall 1983) reported a reduction in seizures, of borderline statistical significance, with the use of opiate. Opiate vs diazepam: Meta-analysis of two studies found a significant reduction in treatment failure (RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.23, 0.80) with the use of opiate. No study reported neurodevelopment by allocated treatment group. Opiates, as compared to supportive care only, appear to reduce the time to regain birth weight and reduce the duration of supportive care, but increase the duration of hospital stay; there is no evidence of effect on treatment failure. When compared to phenobarbital, opiates may reduce the incidence of seizures but, overall, there is no evidence of effect on treatment failure. When compared to diazepam, opiates reduce the incidence of treatment failure. A post-hoc analysis generates the hypothesis that treatment effects may vary according to whether the population includes infants born to all opiate users (i.e. with or without other drug exposure) or is restricted to infants of mothers who used opiates only. In view of the methodologic limitations of the included studies the conclusions of this review should be treated with caution. Further research is needed.

Corneal endothelial cell density and morphology in Phramongkutklao Hospital

PubMed Central

Sopapornamorn, Narumon; Lekskul, Manapon; Panichkul, Suthee

2008-01-01

Objective To describe the corneal endothelial density and morphology in patients of Phramongkutklao Hospital and the relationship between endothelial cell parameters and other factors. Methods Four hundred and four eyes of 202 volunteers were included. Noncontact specular microscopy was performed after taking a history and testing the visual acuity, intraocular pressure measurement, Schirmer’s test and routine eye examination by slit lamp microscope. The studied parameters included mean endothelial cell density (MCD), coefficient of variation (CV), and percentage of hexagonality. Results The mean age of volunteers was 45.73 years; the range being 20 to 80 years old. Their MCD (SD), mean percentage of CV (SD) and mean (SD) percentage of hexagonality were 2623.49(325) cell/mm2, 39.43(8.23)% and 51.50(10.99)%, respectively. Statistically, MCD decreased significantly with age (p < 0.01). There was a significant difference in the percentage of CV between genders. There was no statistical significance between parameters and other factors. Conclusion The normative data of the corneal endothelium of Thai eyes indicated that, statistically, MCD decreased significantly with age. Previous studies have reported no difference in MCD, percentage of CV, and percentage of hexagonality between gender. Nevertheless, significantly different percentages of CV between genders were presented in this study. PMID:19668398

Differences in Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage Cases between Urban and Rural Regions of Taiwan: Big Data Analytics of Government Open Data.

PubMed

Ting, Hsien-Wei; Chien, Ting-Ying; Lai, K Robert; Pan, Ren-Hao; Wu, Kuan-Hsien; Chen, Jun-Min; Chan, Chien-Lung

2017-12-10

This study evaluated the differences in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) between rural and urban areas of Taiwan with big data analysis. We used big data analytics and visualization tools to examine government open data, which included the residents' health medical administrative data, economic status, educational status, and relevant information. The study subjects included sICH patients of Taipei region (29,741 cases) and Eastern Taiwan (4565 cases). The incidence of sICH per 100,000 population per year in Eastern Taiwan (71.3 cases) was significantly higher than that of the Taipei region (42.3 cases). The mean coverage area per hospital in Eastern Taiwan (452.4 km²) was significantly larger than the Taipei region (24 km²). The residents educational level in the Taipei region was significantly higher than that in Eastern Taiwan. The mean hospital length of stay in the Taipei region (17.9 days) was significantly greater than that in Eastern Taiwan (16.3 days) ( p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in other medical profiles between two areas. Distance and educational barriers were two possible reasons for the higher incidence of sICH in the rural area of Eastern Taiwan. Further studies are necessary in order to understand these phenomena in greater depth.

The thromboelastometric discrepancy between septic and trauma induced disseminated intravascular coagulation diagnosed by the scoring system from the Japanese association for acute medicine.

PubMed

Koami, Hiroyuki; Sakamoto, Yuichiro; Sakurai, Ryota; Ohta, Miho; Imahase, Hisashi; Yahata, Mayuko; Umeka, Mitsuru; Miike, Toru; Nagashima, Futoshi; Iwamura, Takashi; Yamada, Kosuke Chris; Inoue, Satoshi

2016-08-01

The aim of this study is to evaluate the hematological differences between septic and traumatic disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) using the rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM).This retrospective study includes all sepsis or severe trauma patients transported to our emergency department who underwent ROTEM from 2013 to 2014. All patients were divided into 2 groups based on the presence of DIC diagnosed by the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine (JAAM) DIC score. We statistically analyzed the demographics, clinical characteristics, laboratory data, ROTEM findings (EXTEM and FIBTEM), and outcome.Fifty-seven patients (30 sepsis and 27 severe trauma) were included in primary analysis. Sepsis cases were significantly older and had higher systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) scores, whereas there were no significant differences in other parameters including Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score, sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score. Twenty-six patients (14 sepsis and 12 severe trauma) were diagnosed with DIC. The Septic DIC (S-DIC) group was significantly older and had higher DIC scores than the traumatic DIC (T-DIC) group. Hematologic examination revealed significantly higher CRP, fibrinogen, lower FDP, DD, and higher FDP/DD ratio were found in the S-DIC group in comparison with the T-DIC group. ROTEM findings showed that the A10, A20, and MCF in the FIBTEM test were significantly higher in the S-DIC group. However, no statistical differences were confirmed in the LI30, LI45, and ML in EXTEM test.The plasma fibrinogen level and fibrinogen based clot firmness in whole-blood test revealed statistical significance between septic and traumatic DIC patients.

Laparoscopic colorectal surgery in obese and nonobese patients: do differences in body mass indices lead to different outcomes?

PubMed

Schwandner, O; Farke, S; Schiedeck, T H K; Bruch, H-P

2004-10-01

The aim of this prospective study was to compare the outcome of laparoscopic colorectal surgery in obese and nonobese patients. All patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for both benign and malignant disease within the past 5 years were entered into the prospective database registry. Body mass index (BMI; kg/m(2)) was used as the objective measure to indicate morbid obesity. Patients with a BMI >30 were defined as obese, and patients with a BMI <30 were defined as nonobese. The parameters analyzed included age, gender, comorbid conditions, diagnosis, procedure, duration of surgery, transfusion requirements, conversion rate, overall morbidity rate including major complications (requiring reoperation), minor complications (conservative treatment) and late-onset complications (postdischarge), stay on intensive case unit, hospitalization, and mortality. For objective evaluation, only laparoscopically completed procedures were analyzed. Statistics included Student's t test and chi-square analysis. Statistical significance was assessed at the 5% level (p < 0. 05 statistically significant). A total of 589 patients were evaluated, including 95 patients in the obese group and 494 patients in the nonobese group. There was no significant difference in conversion rate (7.3% in the obese group vs 9.5% in the nonobese group, p > 0.05) so that the laparoscopic completion rate was 90.5% (n = 86) in the obese and 92.7% (n = 458) in the nonobese group. The rate of females was significantly lower among obese patients (55.8% in the obese group vs 74.2% in the nonobese group, p = 0.001). No significant differences were observed with respect to age, diagnosis, procedure, duration of surgery, and transfusion requirements (p > 0.05). In terms of morbidity, there were no significant differences related to overall complication rates with respect to BMI (23.3% in the obese group vs 24.5% in the nonobese group, p > 0.05). Major complications were more common in the obese group without showing statistical significance (12.8% in the obese group vs 6.6% in the nonobese group, p = 0.078). Conversely, minor complications were more frequently documented in the nonobese group (8.1% in the obese group vs 15.5% in the nonobese group, p = 0.080). In the postoperative course, no differences were documented in terms of return of bowel function, duration of analgesics required, oral feeding, and length of hospitalization (p > 0.05). These data indicate that laparoscopic colorectal surgery is feasible and effective in both obese and nonobese patients. Obese patients who are thought to be at increased risk of postoperative morbidity have the similar benefit of laparoscopic surgery as nonobese patients with colorectal disease.

A multi-institutional outcome analysis of patients undergoing left ventricular assist device implantation stratified by sex and race.

PubMed

Meeteren, Justin van; Maltais, Simon; Dunlay, Shannon M; Haglund, Nicholas A; Beth Davis, Mary; Cowger, Jennifer; Shah, Palak; Aaronson, Keith D; Pagani, Francis D; Stulak, John M

2017-01-01

Earlier studies have demonstrated disparities in patients undergoing left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation when stratified according to sex and race. Because very few data exist from large investigations, we reviewed data from the registry of the Mechanical Circulatory Support Research Network. Between May 2004 and September 2014, 734 patients underwent primary LVAD implantation at our institutions. Median age at implant was 57 (range 18 to 82) years and there were 577 males (80%). Race included Caucasian (C) in 586 patients (82%), African-American (AA) in 112 (16%), and other (O) in 21 (3%). Between sexes, significant pre-operative differences most commonly included median age at implant (males 60 years, females 57 years), ischemic etiology (53% vs 35%) and mean INTERMACS profile (2.9 vs 2.5). Between races, significant pre-operative differences most commonly included median age at implant (C = 61 vs AA = 51 vs O = 51), New York Heart Association functional class (85% vs 100% vs 92%) and ischemic etiology (55% vs 24% vs 40%). There were no significant differences in survival at 1, 3 or 5 years by sex or race. Similarly, there were no differences in time-related freedom from stroke, drive-line infection, gastrointestinal bleeding or pump thrombus by sex or race. After controlling for differences, neither sex nor race was associated with survival (p = 0.09 and p = 0.18, respectively), stroke (p = 0.28 and p = 0.21), drive-line infection (p = 0.9 and p = 0.92), gastrointestinal bleed (p = 0.48 and p = 0.45) or pump thrombus (p = 0.99 and p = 0.8). In this large, multi-institutional analysis, although some pre-operative clinical characteristics varied, they did not translate into any significant differences in late survival or complications while on LVAD support. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Semi-annual report on strategic special nuclear material inventory differences

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

Not Available

1978-01-01

This periodic report of Inventory Differences covers the period October 1, 1976, through March 31, 1977 for Department of Energy (DOE) and DOE contractor facilities possessing significant quantities of Strategic Special Nuclear Material (SSNM). Included in this report are the low enriched uranium inventory differences for DOE's gaseous diffusion plant cascades. (LK)

Got power? A systematic review of sample size adequacy in health professions education research.

PubMed

Cook, David A; Hatala, Rose

2015-03-01

Many education research studies employ small samples, which in turn lowers statistical power. We re-analyzed the results of a meta-analysis of simulation-based education to determine study power across a range of effect sizes, and the smallest effect that could be plausibly excluded. We systematically searched multiple databases through May 2011, and included all studies evaluating simulation-based education for health professionals in comparison with no intervention or another simulation intervention. Reviewers working in duplicate abstracted information to calculate standardized mean differences (SMD's). We included 897 original research studies. Among the 627 no-intervention-comparison studies the median sample size was 25. Only two studies (0.3%) had ≥80% power to detect a small difference (SMD > 0.2 standard deviations) and 136 (22%) had power to detect a large difference (SMD > 0.8). 110 no-intervention-comparison studies failed to find a statistically significant difference, but none excluded a small difference and only 47 (43%) excluded a large difference. Among 297 studies comparing alternate simulation approaches the median sample size was 30. Only one study (0.3%) had ≥80% power to detect a small difference and 79 (27%) had power to detect a large difference. Of the 128 studies that did not detect a statistically significant effect, 4 (3%) excluded a small difference and 91 (71%) excluded a large difference. In conclusion, most education research studies are powered only to detect effects of large magnitude. For most studies that do not reach statistical significance, the possibility of large and important differences still exists.

Visual Perception and Recall of School-Age Navajo, Hopi, Jicarilla Apache, and Caucasian Children of the Southwest including Results from a Pilot Study Among Eskimos and Athabascan School-Age Children of North Alaska. Monograph #5.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bland, Laurel LeMieux

The study determined if a significant difference was demonstrated between American Indians and Caucasians on visual perception and recall tasks associated with cognitive function. It was hypothesized that a significant difference existed between scores obtained by Indian children enrolled in reservation schools and that of Caucasian children…

Minimally invasive liver resection: robotic versus laparoscopic left lateral sectionectomy.

PubMed

Packiam, Vignesh; Bartlett, David L; Tohme, Samer; Reddy, Srinevas; Marsh, J Wallis; Geller, David A; Tsung, Allan

2012-12-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical and economic outcomes of robotic versus laparoscopic left lateral sectionectomy (LLS). A retrospective analysis was made comparing robotic (n = 11) and laparoscopic (n = 18) LLS performed at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center between January 2009 and July 2011. Demographic data, operative, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Demographic and tumor characteristics of robotic and laparoscopic LLS were similar. There were also no significant differences in operative outcomes including estimated blood loss and operating room time. Patients undergoing robotic LLS had more admissions to the ICU (46 versus 6 %), increased rate of minor complications (27 versus 0 %), and longer lengths of stay (4 versus 3 days). There were no significant differences in major complication rates or 90-day mortality. The cost of robotic and laparoscopic LLS was not significantly different when only considering direct costs ($5,130 versus $4,408, p = 0.401). However, robotic LLS costs were significantly greater when including indirect costs, which were estimated to be $1,423 per robotic case ($6,553 versus $4,408, p = 0.021). Robotic LLS yields slightly inferior clinical outcomes and increased cost compared to the laparoscopic approach.

The effectiveness of working memory training with individuals with intellectual disabilities - a meta-analytic review.

PubMed

Danielsson, Henrik; Zottarel, Valentina; Palmqvist, Lisa; Lanfranchi, Silvia

2015-01-01

Working memory (WM) training has been increasingly popular in the last years. Previous studies have shown that individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) have low WM capacity and therefore would benefit by this type of intervention. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of WM and cognitive training for individuals with ID. The effects reported in previous studies have varied and therefore a meta-analysis of articles in the major databases was conducted. Inclusion criteria included to have a pretest-posttest design with a training group and a control group and to have measures of WM or short-term memory. Ten studies with 28 comparisons were included. The results reveal a significant, but small, overall pretest-posttest effect size (ES) for WM training for individuals with ID compared to controls. A mixed WM approach, including both verbal and visuo-spatial components working mainly on strategies, was the only significant training type with a medium ES. The most commonly reported training type, visuo-spatial WM training, was performed in 60 percent of the included comparisons and had a non-significant ES close to zero. We conclude that even if there is an overall effect of WM training, a mixed WM approach appears to cause this effect. Given the few studies included and the different characteristics of the included studies, interpretations should be done with caution. However, different types of interventions appear to have different effects. Even if the results were promising, more studies are needed to better understand how to design an effective WM intervention for this group and to understand if, and how, these short-term effects remain over time and transfer to everyday activities.

The effectiveness of working memory training with individuals with intellectual disabilities – a meta-analytic review

PubMed Central

Danielsson, Henrik; Zottarel, Valentina; Palmqvist, Lisa; Lanfranchi, Silvia

2015-01-01

Working memory (WM) training has been increasingly popular in the last years. Previous studies have shown that individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) have low WM capacity and therefore would benefit by this type of intervention. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of WM and cognitive training for individuals with ID. The effects reported in previous studies have varied and therefore a meta-analysis of articles in the major databases was conducted. Inclusion criteria included to have a pretest–posttest design with a training group and a control group and to have measures of WM or short-term memory. Ten studies with 28 comparisons were included. The results reveal a significant, but small, overall pretest–posttest effect size (ES) for WM training for individuals with ID compared to controls. A mixed WM approach, including both verbal and visuo-spatial components working mainly on strategies, was the only significant training type with a medium ES. The most commonly reported training type, visuo-spatial WM training, was performed in 60 percent of the included comparisons and had a non-significant ES close to zero. We conclude that even if there is an overall effect of WM training, a mixed WM approach appears to cause this effect. Given the few studies included and the different characteristics of the included studies, interpretations should be done with caution. However, different types of interventions appear to have different effects. Even if the results were promising, more studies are needed to better understand how to design an effective WM intervention for this group and to understand if, and how, these short-term effects remain over time and transfer to everyday activities. PMID:26347692

Melanic Facial Patterns and their Significance in the Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle (Harmonia axyridis)

PubMed Central

BEZZERIDES, ALEXANDER L.; LOOFBOURROW, SETH A.

2015-01-01

The relationship between the patterns present on the pronotum and the elytron of the multicolored Asian lady beetle Harmonia axyridis was investigated. In males elytron size was a significant predictor of pronotal intensity and in females the fraction of the pronotum covered in black was related to their elytral spot brightness. Other significant sex differences included females having more of their pronota covered by melanins and the pigments deposited there being more intense than in males. The potential significance of these sex differences is discussed as well as the potential for these signals to serve in a mate choice context. PMID:25705051

Melanic Facial Patterns and their Significance in the Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle (Harmonia axyridis).

PubMed

Bezzerides, Alexander L; Loofbourrow, Seth A

2014-10-01

The relationship between the patterns present on the pronotum and the elytron of the multicolored Asian lady beetle Harmonia axyridi s was investigated. In males elytron size was a significant predictor of pronotal intensity and in females the fraction of the pronotum covered in black was related to their elytral spot brightness. Other significant sex differences included females having more of their pronota covered by melanins and the pigments deposited there being more intense than in males. The potential significance of these sex differences is discussed as well as the potential for these signals to serve in a mate choice context.

First feeding regimes for long-snout seahorse Hippocampus reidi larvae.

PubMed

Garcia-Manchón, J; Socorro-Cruz, J; Segade Botella, A; Otero-Ferrer, F; Mesa, A; Molina Domínguez, L

2013-01-01

Seahorses are endangered species included in Appendix II of CITES from 2002 due to the progressive regression of wild populations. This study focused in Hippocampus reidi, one of the species with highest interest in trade, showing an increasing demand in the last decades. This study was conducted during 28 days to compare the effects of different time enrichment (0, 24, and 48h) for Artemia using a commercial product (Easy-Selco DHA INVE Aquaculture, Dendermonde, Belgium). Results showed no significant differences in growth between treatments until 21DAB, after which animals fed for 48h one enriched Artemia showed significantly better growth. Cumulative average survival during the first 14DAB was significantly higher in Oh treatment, while from 15DAB to the end of the experiment, no significantly differences were observed.

Health smart cards: differing perceptions of emergency department patients and staff.

PubMed

Mohd Rosli, Reizal; Taylor, David McD; Knott, Jonathan C; Das, Atandrila; Dent, Andrew W

2009-02-01

An analytical, cross-sectional survey of 270 emergency department patients and 92 staff undertaken in three tertiary referral hospital emergency departments was completed to compare the perceptions of patients and staff regarding the use of health smart cards containing patient medical records. The study recorded data on a range of health smart card issues including awareness, privacy, confidentiality, security, advantages and disadvantages, and willingness to use. A significantly higher proportion of staff had heard of the card. The perceived disadvantages reported by patients and staff were, overall, significantly different, with the staff reporting more disadvantages. A significantly higher proportion of patients believed that they should choose what information is on the card and who should have access to the information. Patients were more conservative regarding what information should be included, but staff were more conservative regarding who should have access to the information. Significantly fewer staff believed that patients could reliably handle the cards. Overall, however, the cards were considered acceptable and useful, and their introduction would be supported.

Comparison of untreated adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with normal controls: a review and statistical analysis of the literature.

PubMed

Rushton, Paul R P; Grevitt, Michael P

2013-04-20

Review and statistical analysis of studies evaluating health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in adolescents with untreated adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) using Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) outcomes. To apply normative values and minimum clinical important differences for the SRS-22r to the literature. Identify whether the HRQOL of adolescents with untreated AIS differs from unaffected peers and whether any differences are clinically relevant. The effect of untreated AIS on adolescent HRQOL is uncertain. The lack of published normative values and minimum clinical important difference for the SRS-22r has so far hindered our interpretation of previous studies. The publication of this background data allows these studies to be re-examined. Using suitable inclusion criteria, a literature search identified studies examining HRQOL in untreated adolescents with AIS. Each cohort was analyzed individually. Statistically significant differences were identified by using 95% confidence intervals for the difference in SRS-22r domain mean scores between the cohorts with AIS and the published data for unaffected adolescents. If the lower bound of the confidence interval was greater than the minimum clinical important difference, the difference was considered clinically significant. Of the 21 included patient cohorts, 81% reported statistically worse pain than those unaffected. Yet in only 5% of cohorts was this difference clinically important. Of the 11 cohorts included examining patient self-image, 91% reported statistically worse scores than those unaffected. In 73% of cohorts this difference was clinically significant. Affected cohorts tended to score well in function/activity and mental health domains and differences from those unaffected rarely reached clinically significant values. Pain and self-image tend to be statistically lower among cohorts with AIS than those unaffected. The literature to date suggests that it is only self-image which consistently differs clinically. This should be considered when assessing the possible benefits of surgery.

Hospitalization Costs for Patients Undergoing Orthopedic Surgery Treated With Intravenous Acetaminophen (IV-APAP) Plus Other IV Analgesics or IV Opioid Monotherapy for Postoperative Pain.

PubMed

Maiese, Brett A; Pham, An T; Shah, Manasee V; Eaddy, Michael T; Lunacsek, Orsolya E; Wan, George J

2017-02-01

To assess the impact on hospitalization costs of multimodal analgesia (MMA), including intravenous acetaminophen (IV-APAP), versus IV opioid monotherapy for postoperative pain management in patients undergoing orthopedic surgery. Utilizing the Truven Health MarketScan ® Hospital Drug Database (HDD), patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA), total hip arthroplasty (THA), or surgical repair of hip fracture between 1/1/2011 and 8/31/2014 were separated into postoperative pain management groups: MMA with IV-APAP plus other IV analgesics (IV-APAP group) or an IV opioid monotherapy group. All patients could have received oral analgesics. Baseline characteristics and total hospitalization costs were compared. Additionally, an inverse probability treatment weighting [IPTW] with propensity scores analysis further assessed hospitalization cost differences. The IV-APAP group (n = 33,954) and IV opioid monotherapy group (n = 110,300) differed significantly (P < 0.0001) across baseline characteristics, though the differences may not have been clinically meaningful. Total hospitalization costs (mean ± standard deviation) were significantly lower for the IV-APAP group than the IV opioid monotherapy group (US$12,540 ± $9564 vs. $13,242 ± $35,825; P < 0.0001). Medical costs accounted for $701 of the $702 between-group difference. Pharmacy costs were similar between groups. Results of the IPTW-adjusted analysis further supported the statistically significant cost difference. Patients undergoing orthopedic surgery who received MMA for postoperative pain management, including IV-APAP, had significantly lower total costs than patients who received IV opioid monotherapy. This difference was driven by medical costs; importantly, there was no difference in pharmacy costs. Generalizability of the results may be limited to patients admitted to hospitals similar to those included in HDD. Dosing could not be determined, so it was not possible to quantify utilization of IV-APAP or ascertain differences in opioid consumption between the 2 groups. This study did not account for healthcare utilization post-discharge.

Sterilization techniques for biodegradable scaffolds in tissue engineering applications

PubMed Central

Dai, Zheng; Ronholm, Jennifer; Tian, Yiping; Sethi, Benu; Cao, Xudong

2016-01-01

Biodegradable scaffolds have been extensively studied due to their wide applications in biomaterials and tissue engineering. However, infections associated with in vivo use of these scaffolds by different microbiological contaminants remain to be a significant challenge. This review focuses on different sterilization techniques including heat, chemical, irradiation, and other novel sterilization techniques for various biodegradable scaffolds. Comparisons of these techniques, including their sterilization mechanisms, post-sterilization effects, and sterilization efficiencies, are discussed. PMID:27247758

A Critique of "Strangers from a Different Shore."

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Elaine H.

1990-01-01

"Strangers from a Different Shore" makes significant use of Asian-American literature, especially autobiography, but consistently misses the women's viewpoints of themselves and their experiences. Cites interesting and pertinent material might have been included. Calls for a feminist treatment of this subject. (DM)

Comparison of the effect of three autogenous bone harvesting methods on cell viability in rabbits

PubMed Central

Moradi Haghgoo, Janet; Arabi, Seyed Reza; Hosseinipanah, Seyyed Mohammad; Solgi, Ghasem; Rastegarfard, Neda; Farhadian, Maryam

2017-01-01

Background. This study was designed to compare the viability of autogenous bone grafts, harvested using different methods, in order to determine the best harvesting technique with respect to more viable cells. Methods. In this animal experimental study, three harvesting methods, including manual instrument (chisel), rotary device and piezosurgery, were used for harvesting bone grafts from the lateral body of the mandible on the left and right sides of 10 rabbits. In each group, 20 bone samples were collected and their viability was assessed using MTS kit. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests, were used for evaluating significant differences between the groups. Results. One-way ANOVA showed significant differences between all the groups (P=0.000). Data analysis using post hoc Tukey tests indicated that manual instrument and piezosurgery had no significant differences with regard to cell viability (P=0.749) and the cell viability in both groups was higher than that with the use of a rotary instrument (P=0.000). Conclusion. Autogenous bone grafts harvested with a manual instrument and piezosurgery had more viable cells in comparison to the bone chips harvested with a rotary device. PMID:28748046

Sex differences in the neural basis of emotional memories.

PubMed

Canli, Turhan; Desmond, John E; Zhao, Zuo; Gabrieli, John D E

2002-08-06

Psychological studies have found better memory in women than men for emotional events, but the neural basis for this difference is unknown. We used event-related functional MRI to assess whether sex differences in memory for emotional stimuli is associated with activation of different neural systems in men and women. Brain activation in 12 men and 12 women was recorded while they rated their experience of emotional arousal in response to neutral and emotionally negative pictures. In a recognition memory test 3 weeks after scanning, highly emotional pictures were remembered best, and remembered better by women than by men. Men and women activated different neural circuits to encode stimuli effectively into memory even when the analysis was restricted to pictures rated equally arousing by both groups. Men activated significantly more structures than women in a network that included the right amygdala, whereas women activated significantly fewer structures in a network that included the left amygdala. Women had significantly more brain regions where activation correlated with both ongoing evaluation of emotional experience and with subsequent memory for the most emotionally arousing pictures. Greater overlap in brain regions sensitive to current emotion and contributing to subsequent memory may be a neural mechanism for emotions to enhance memory more powerfully in women than in men.

The relationship between race, cigarette smoking and carotid intimal medial thickness in systemic lupus erythematosus.

PubMed

Scalzi, L V; Bhatt, S; Gilkeson, R C; Shaffer, M L

2009-12-01

Racial differences are known to account for a higher incidence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), as well as increased disease severity and mortality. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there are any race-specific risk factors that affect measures of subclinical atherosclerosis in SLE patients. Traditional and SLE-related cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors were assessed in 106 female SLE patients. Carotid medial intimal medial thickness (mIMT) and coronary artery calcification (CAC) were measured on all subjects. Differences were evaluated between races for all clinical, serologic, and CVD risk factors and the racial interactions with all covariables. Outcomes included mIMT and CAC. There were no significant differences between races with regard to mIMT or CAC. Significant covariables in the final model for mIMT included age, triglycerides, glucose, and race-age and race-smoking interactions. A prediction model with fixed significant covariables demonstrated that Black subjects with a smoking history had a significantly higher mIMT than Blacks who had never smoked, an effect not seen in Whites. There were no differences between having CAC or with the CAC scores between the races. In the final model for CAC, age and SLE disease duration were significant covariables impacting CAC. When controlling for other significant CVD covariables and interactions, Black women, but not White, with SLE with a history of smoking have higher mIMT measurements than those who have never smoked. This is the first report documenting the race-specific effect of smoking on subclinical measures of CVD in SLE.

Steatosis Grade is the Most Important Risk Factor for Development of Endothelial Dysfunction in NAFLD

PubMed Central

Sapmaz, Ferdane; Uzman, Metin; Basyigit, Sebahat; Ozkan, Selcuk; Yavuz, Bunyamin; Yeniova, Abdullah; Kefeli, Ayse; Asilturk, Zeliha; Nazligül, Yasar

2016-01-01

Abstract It is shown that there are strong associations between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and endothelial dysfunction. The aim of our study was to reveal whether steatosis or fibrosis score is more important in the development of endothelial dysfunction in patients with NAFLD in a prospective manner. This cross-sectional study included 266 subjects. These subjects were divided into 2 groups depending on presence of hepatosteatosis sonographically. Patients with hepatosteatosis were also divided into 3 subgroups depending on degree of steatosis: grade 1, 2, and 3. In all patients, Aspartate aminotransferase-to-Platelet Ratio Index and Fibrosis-4 (FIB4) scores were calculated. In addition, flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) measurements were recorded. There was NAFLD in 176 (66.2%) of 266 patients included. There were no significant differences in sex and age distributions between patients with NAFLD (group 1) and controls without NAFLD (group 2) (P = 0.05). Mean Aspartate aminotransferase-to-Platelet Ratio Index score was significantly higher in group 1 compared with the control group (P = 0.001), whereas no significant difference was detected regarding FIB4 scores between groups (P = 0.4). Mean FMD value was found to be significantly lower in group 1 (P = 0.008). Patients with grade 3 hepatosteatosis had significantly lower FMD values than those with grade 1 steatosis and controls (P = 0.001). In univariate and multivariate analyses in group 1, no significant difference was detected regarding mean FMD measurements (P = 0.03). Again, no significant difference was detected in mean FMD measurement between FIB4 subgroups among patients with NAFLD and the whole study group (P = 0.09). The endothelial dysfunction is associated with steatosis in patients with NAFLD. PMID:27057890

Gender differences in human single neuron responses to male emotional faces

PubMed Central

Newhoff, Morgan; Treiman, David M.; Smith, Kris A.; Steinmetz, Peter N.

2015-01-01

Well-documented differences in the psychology and behavior of men and women have spurred extensive exploration of gender's role within the brain, particularly regarding emotional processing. While neuroanatomical studies clearly show differences between the sexes, the functional effects of these differences are less understood. Neuroimaging studies have shown inconsistent locations and magnitudes of gender differences in brain hemodynamic responses to emotion. To better understand the neurophysiology of these gender differences, we analyzed recordings of single neuron activity in the human brain as subjects of both genders viewed emotional expressions. This study included recordings of single-neuron activity of 14 (6 male) epileptic patients in four brain areas: amygdala (236 neurons), hippocampus (n = 270), anterior cingulate cortex (n = 256), and ventromedial prefrontal cortex (n = 174). Neural activity was recorded while participants viewed a series of avatar male faces portraying positive, negative or neutral expressions. Significant gender differences were found in the left amygdala, where 23% (n = 15∕66) of neurons in men were significantly affected by facial emotion, vs. 8% (n = 6∕76) of neurons in women. A Fisher's exact test comparing the two ratios found a highly significant difference between the two (p < 0.01). These results show specific differences between genders at the single-neuron level in the human amygdala. These differences may reflect gender-based distinctions in evolved capacities for emotional processing and also demonstrate the importance of including subject gender as an independent factor in future studies of emotional processing by single neurons in the human amygdala. PMID:26441597

H2-based star formation laws in hierarchical models of galaxy formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Lizhi; De Lucia, Gabriella; Hirschmann, Michaela; Fontanot, Fabio; Zoldan, Anna

2017-07-01

We update our recently published model for GAlaxy Evolution and Assembly (GAEA), to include a self-consistent treatment of the partition of cold gas in atomic and molecular hydrogen. Our model provides significant improvements with respect to previous ones used for similar studies. In particular, GAEA (I) includes a sophisticated chemical enrichment scheme accounting for non-instantaneous recycling of gas, metals and energy; (II) reproduces the measured evolution of the galaxy stellar mass function; (III) reasonably reproduces the observed correlation between galaxy stellar mass and gas metallicity at different redshifts. These are important prerequisites for models considering a metallicity-dependent efficiency of molecular gas formation. We also update our model for disc sizes and show that model predictions are in nice agreement with observational estimates for the gas, stellar and star-forming discs at different cosmic epochs. We analyse the influence of different star formation laws including empirical relations based on the hydrostatic pressure of the disc, analytic models and prescriptions derived from detailed hydrodynamical simulations. We find that modifying the star formation law does not affect significantly the global properties of model galaxies, neither their distributions. The only quantity showing significant deviations in different models is the cosmic molecular-to-atomic hydrogen ratio, particularly at high redshift. Unfortunately, however, this quantity also depends strongly on the modelling adopted for additional physical processes. Useful constraints on the physical processes regulating star formation can be obtained focusing on low-mass galaxies and/or at higher redshift. In this case, self-regulation has not yet washed out differences imprinted at early time.

Breast cancer in Latinas: gene expression, differential response to treatments, and differential toxicities in Latinas compared with other population groups.

PubMed

Patel, Tejal A; Colon-Otero, Gerardo; Bueno Hume, Celyne; Copland, John A; Perez, Edith A

2010-01-01

Disparities in clinical outcomes of breast cancer have been described among different racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. Convincing data exist showing that Latina women have a lower incidence of breast cancer but a higher breast cancer-related mortality rate compared with white women. Noticeable differences in breast cancer incidence are present even within different Latina subsets with a higher incidence in second- and third-generation women compared with foreign born. An increasing amount of data exists pointing to significant differences in the genetics and biology of breast cancer in Latinas as a significant contributor to the higher mortality, including a higher incidence of triple-negative breast cancers (which do not overexpress HER-2 protein and are negative for estrogen receptors and progesterone receptors). Other social and environmental factors are likely to play a significant role as well, including a lower rate of screening mammography, variable access to medical care, among others. Recent data are inconclusive regarding differences among racial/ethnic groups in the response to chemotherapy. Data on racial/ethnic variations in the pharmacogenomics of chemotherapy, endocrine treatments, and toxicity are more limited, with some data suggesting differences in frequencies of polymorphisms of genes involved in the metabolism of some of these agents. Further studies are needed on this subject.

Comparative efficacy of selegiline versus rasagiline in the treatment of early Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Marconi, S; Zwingers, T

2014-07-01

The monoamine oxidase B inhibitors selegiline and rasagiline have not been compared in head-to-head clinical trials in patients with early Parkinson's disease.  The aim of this review was to compare the efficacy of these two agents in this setting. Randomized, placebo-controlled trials with an endpoint of the mean change from baseline in the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) total score were included. Analysis included calculation of the standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and Forest Plot analyses for comparisons of pooled results. Five studies with selegiline (n = 1029) and four with rasagiline (n = 820) were included. Treatment duration was 2.5-9 months. Both selegiline and rasagiline showed significant SMDs versus placebo (-0.690, 95% CI -0.811, -0.569 and -1.025, 95% CI -1.230, -0.820; respectively), indicating a significant effect of both drugs on UPDRS. The SMD between selegiline and rasagiline was not significantly different (SMD 0.079; 95% CI -0.010, +0.167). It appears that selegiline and rasagiline have comparable efficacy in improving Parkinsonian symptoms in patients with early stage disease.

The microbial changes in subgingival plaques of orthodontic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials.

PubMed

Guo, Runzhi; Lin, Yifan; Zheng, Yunfei; Li, Weiran

2017-06-02

Orthodontic treatment was found to have an impact on the quantity and constitution of subgingival microbiota. However, contradictory findings regarding the effects of fixed appliances on microbial changes were reported. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the microbial changes in subgingival plaques of orthodontic patients. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases were searched up to November 20, 2016. Longitudinal studies observing microbial changes in subgingival plaques at different time points of orthodontic treatment are included. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed by Methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS). The studies that reported the frequency of subgingival periodontopathogens were used for quantitative analysis. Other studies were analysed qualitatively to describe the microbial changes during orthodontic treatment. Thirteen studies were selected, including two controlled clinical trials, three cohort studies and eight self-controlled studies. Four periodontopathogens, including Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Prevotella intermedia (Pi) and Tannerella forsythia (Tf), were analysed. Following orthodontic appliance placement, the frequencies of Pg and Aa showed no significant change (P = 0.97 and P = 0.77), whereas the frequency of Tf significantly increased (P < 0.01) during short-term observation (0-3 months). The frequency of Pi showed a tooth-specific difference, as it presented no significant difference (P = 0.25) at the site of the first molar but was significantly increased (P = 0.01) at the incisor. During long-term observation (> = 6 months), two studies reported that the levels of subgingival periodontopathogens exhibited a transient increase but decreased to the pretreatment levels afterwards. After removal of the orthodontic appliance, the four periodontopathogens showed no significant difference compared with before removal. The levels of subgingival pathogens presented temporary increases after orthodontic appliance placement, and appeared to return to pretreatment levels several months later. This indicates that orthodontic treatment might not permanently induce periodontal disease by affecting the level of subgingival periodontal pathogen levels. Further studies of high methodological quality are required to provide more reliable evidence regarding this issue.

Seasonal differences in relationships between nitrate concentration and denitrification rates in ditch sediments vegetated with rice cutgrass (Leersia oryzoides)

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Increased application of nitrogen (N) fertilizers in agricultural systems contributes to significant environmental impacts, including eutrophication of fresh and coastal waters. Rice cutgrass (Leersia oryzoides) can significantly enhance denitrification potential in agricultural ditch sediments and ...

Attention benefits after a single dose of metadoxine extended release in adults with predominantly inattentive ADHD.

PubMed

Manor, Iris; Rubin, Jonathan; Daniely, Yaron; Adler, Lenard A

2014-09-01

To assess the first-dose effectiveness and tolerability of metadoxine extended release (MDX) in adults with predominantly inattentive attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD-PI). In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study, adults with ADHD-PI were randomized 1:1:1 to receive a single dose of MDX 1400 mg, MDX 700 mg, and placebo (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01685281). The primary efficacy end point was the mean change in the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) ADHD score from baseline to 3 to 5 hours after drug administration. Secondary assessments included TOVA subscores, TOVA response rates (defined as an increase of 0.8 points in the TOVA ADHD score), and the Cambridge Neuropsychological Automated Test Battery. Safety assessments included adverse events and vital signs. The intention-to-treat population included 36 patients (52.8% men; mean age, 32 years). The efficacy of MDX 1400 mg was demonstrated by a statistically significant difference in the mean (± SD) change in the TOVA ADHD score at baseline to 3 to 5 hours after drug administration compared with placebo (2.0 [4.2]; P = 0.009). The TOVA response time variability subscore was significantly different between MDX 1400 mg and placebo (mean difference, 7.9 [19.2] points; P = 0.022). Significantly more adults responded to single-dose MDX 1400 mg versus placebo (97.1% vs 71.4%, P = 0.006). There were no statistically significant differences between MDX 700 mg and placebo on any measures. Exploratory analyses of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Automated Test Battery did not yield significant findings. Fatigue and headache were the 2 most frequently reported adverse events. There were no clinically significant abnormalities in laboratory values, vital signs measurements, Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale scores, or electrocardiographic parameters. Single-dose MDX 1400 mg significantly improved sustained and selective attention in adults with ADHD-PI as measured by the TOVA ADHD score 3 to 5 hours after drug administration. Single doses of MDX 700 and 1400 mg were well tolerated.

A meta-analysis of laparoscopic versus open appendectomy in patients suspected of having acute appendicitis

PubMed Central

Temple, Larissa K.F.; Litwin, Demetrius E.; McLeod, Robin S.

Objective To determine if any significant differences exist between laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) and open appendectomy (OA). Design A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing LA to OA. Data sources An extensive literature search was conducted for appropriate articles published between January 1990 and March 1997. Articles were initially retrieved through MEDLINE with MeSH terms “appendicitis” or “appendectomy” and “laparoscopy.” Additional methods included cross-referencing bibliographies of retrieved articles, hand searching abstracts from relevant meetings and consultation with a content expert. Study selection Only RCTs published in English in which patients had a preoperative diagnosis of acute appendicitis were included. Data extraction The outcomes of interest included operating time, hospital stay, readmission rates, return to normal activity and complications. The Cochrane Collaboration Review Manager 3.0 was used to calculate odds ratios (OR), weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The random-effects model was used for statistical analysis. Data synthesis Twelve trials met the inclusion criteria. Because there were insufficient data in some trials, operating time, hospitalization and return to work were assessed in only 8 trials. Mean operating time was significantly longer with LA (WMD 18.10 minutes, 95% CI 12.87 to 23.15 minutes). There were fewer wound infections in LA (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.69), but no significant differences in intra-abdominal abscess rates (OR 1.94, 95% CI 0.68 to 5.58). There was no significant difference in the mean length of hospital stay (WMD −0.16 days, 95% CI −0.44 to 0.15 days) or readmission rates (OR 1.16, 95% CI 0.54 to 2.48). However, the return to normal activity was significantly earlier with LA (WMD −5.79 days, 95% CI −7.38 to −4.21 days). Sensitivity analyses did not affect the results. Conclusion This meta-analysis suggests that operating room time is significantly longer, hospital stay is unchanged but return to normal activities is significantly earlier with LA. PMID:10526524

Anthropometric and Performance Measures for High School Basketball Players

PubMed Central

Greene, Joseph J.; McGuine, Timothy A.; Leverson, Glen; Best, Thomas M.

1998-01-01

Objective: To determine possible anthropometric and performance sex differences in a population of high school basketball players. Design and Setting: Measurements were collected during the first week of basketball practice before the 1995-1996 season. Varsity basketball players from 4 high schools were tested on a battery of measures chosen to detect possible anthropometric and performance sex differences. Subjects: Fifty-four female and sixty-one male subjects, from varsity basketball teams at high schools enrolled in the athletic training outreach program at the University of Wisconsin Hospital Sports Medicine Center in Madison, WI, volunteered to take part in this study. Measurements: We took anthropometric measurements on each of the 115 subjects. These included height, weight, body composition, ankle range of motion, and medial longitudinal arch type in weightbearing. Performance measures included the vertical jump, 22.86-m (25-yd) shuttle run, 18.29-m (20-yd) sprint, and single-limb balance time. Results: We compared anthropometric and performance characteristics using a 2-sample t test. The only exception to this was for medial longitudinal arch type, where the 2 groups were compared using a 2-tailed Fisher's exact test. The male subjects were significantly taller and heavier, while the females had a significantly higher percentage of body fat. There were no significant differences found for ankle plantar flexion and dorsiflexion, but the females had significantly more inversion and eversion range of motion. Analysis of medial longitudinal arch type found females to have a higher percentage of pronated arches and males to have a higher percentage of supinated arches. Performance testing revealed that the males were able to jump significantly higher and run the 22.86-m (25-yard) shuttle run and 18.29-m (20-yard) sprint significantly faster than the female subjects. There was no significant difference between the groups for single-limb balance time. Conclusions: We found significant anthropometric and performance sex differences in a cohort of high school basketball players. Further study of these measures is necessary to determine if these differences can predict the risk for ankle injuries in this particular population. PMID:16558515

Intrarater Reliability and Other Psychometrics of the Health Promoting Activities Scale (HPAS).

PubMed

Muskett, Rachel; Bourke-Taylor, Helen; Hewitt, Alana

The Health Promoting Activities Scale (HPAS) measures the self-rated frequency with which adults participate in activities that promote health. We evaluated the internal consistency, construct validity, and intrarater reliability of the HPAS with a cohort of mothers (N = 56) of school-age children. We used an online survey that included the HPAS and measures of mental and physical health. Statistical analysis included intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), measurement error, error range, limits of agreement, and minimum detectable change (MDC). The HPAS showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = .73). Construct validity was supported by a significant difference in HPAS scores among participants grouped by physical activity level; no other differences were significant. Results included a high aggregate ICC of .90 and an MDC of 5 points. Our evaluation of the HPAS revealed good reliability and stability, suggesting suitability for ongoing evaluation as an outcome measure. Copyright © 2017 by the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.

Sizing and Lifecycle Cost Analysis of an Ares V Composite Interstage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mann, Troy; Smeltzer, Stan; Grenoble, Ray; Mason, Brian; Rosario, Sev; Fairbairn, Bob

2012-01-01

The Interstage Element of the Ares V launch vehicle was sized using a commercially available structural sizing software tool. Two different concepts were considered, a metallic design and a composite design. Both concepts were sized using similar levels of analysis fidelity and included the influence of design details on each concept. Additionally, the impact of the different manufacturing techniques and failure mechanisms for composite and metallic construction were considered. Significant details were included in analysis models of each concept, including penetrations for human access, joint connections, as well as secondary loading effects. The designs and results of the analysis were used to determine lifecycle cost estimates for the two Interstage designs. Lifecycle cost estimates were based on industry provided cost data for similar launch vehicle components. The results indicated that significant mass as well as cost savings are attainable for the chosen composite concept as compared with a metallic option.

A Pilot Study of Gait Function in Farmworkers in Eastern North Carolina.

PubMed

Nguyen, Ha T; Kritchevsky, Stephen B; Foxworth, Judy L; Quandt, Sara A; Summers, Phillip; Walker, Francis O; Arcury, Thomas A

2015-01-01

Farmworkers endure many job-related hazards, including fall-related work injuries. Gait analysis may be useful in identifying potential fallers. The goal of this pilot study was to explore differences in gait between farmworkers and non-farmworkers. The sample included 16 farmworkers and 24 non-farmworkers. Gait variables were collected using the portable GAITRite system, a 16-foot computerized walkway. Generalized linear regression models were used to examine group differences. All models were adjusted for two established confounders, age and body mass index. There were no significant differences in stride length, step length, double support time, and base of support; but farmworkers had greater irregularity of stride length (P = .01) and step length (P = .08). Farmworkers performed significantly worse on gait velocity (P = .003) and cadence (P < .001) relative to non-farmworkers. We found differences in gait function between farmworkers and non-farmworkers. These findings suggest that measuring gait with a portable walkway system is feasible and informative in farmworkers and may possibly be of use in assessing fall risk.

Penile vascular indices in surgically treated and conservatively treated penile fracture: does conventional immediate repair matter?

PubMed

Safarinejad, Mohammad Reza; Lashkari, Mohammad Hossein; Babaei, Alireza; Dadkhah, Farid; Kolahi, Ali Asghar

2012-12-01

To investigate the impact of immediate surgical repair and conservative treatment of penile fracture (PF) on penile vascular indices. The study includes 146 surgically treated (group 1), and 56 conservatively treated patients (group 2). All of the participants underwent penile duplex Doppler ultrasonography (PDDU), and Doppler parameters including the peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), and resistive index (RI) were measured in both corpora at baseline and after intracavernosal injection of 20 μg prostaglandin E1. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analysis addressed study variables. An increased number of men in group 2 (25.0%) compared with men in group 1 (19.2%) reported ED, but the difference did not reach statistical significance (P=0.06). In patients with ED the mean PSV did not differ significantly between the group 1 (30.1±4.02 cm/s) and group 2 (30.1±4.02 cm/s) (P=0.32). Also, in patients without ED, the mean PSV for group 1 (82.4±24.1 cm/s) subjects did not differ significantly from the means for the group 2 patients (79.4±27.2 cm/s) (P=0.21). Vascular hemodynamics in fractured corpus cavernosum did not differ significantly between two groups (P=0.08). Current method of surgical treatment does not provide better outcome in terms of erectile function and penile vascular hemodynamics.

Thrombopoietin-receptor agonists for children with immune thrombocytopenia: a systematic review.

PubMed

Zhang, Jiaxing; Liang, Yi; Ai, Yuan; Xie, Juan; Li, Youping; Zheng, Wenyi

2017-10-01

We conducted a systematic review to assess the efficacy and safety of Thrombopoietin-receptor agonists (TPOras) for pediatric immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). We searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library from their earliest records to January 2017. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Primary outcomes were durable response and clinically significant bleeding. Secondary outcomes were overall response, overall bleeding events, the use of rescue medication and adverse events (AEs). Five randomized RCTs (261participants) were included. Compared with placebo group, the proportion of patients achieving durable platelet response was significantly higher in Eltrombopag (P = 0.0004) or Romiplostim (P = 0.002) group, so was the overall response in Eltrombopag [RR = 2.64, 95% CI (1.58, 4.44)] or Romiplostim [RR = 5.05, 95% CI (2.21, 11.53)] group. Both clinically significant bleeding (P = 0.04) and total bleeding (P = 0.01) in Eltrombopag group were significantly less frequent than those in placebo group, while no significant difference between Romiplostim and placebo group. The proportion of patients receiving rescue medication, the incidence of overall AEs and serious AEs between TPO-receptor agonists and placebo group were not significantly different. TPOras might improve both durable and overall platelet response in pediatric ITP, compared with placebo.

A systematic review of cognitive decline in dementia with Lewy bodies versus Alzheimer’s disease

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Introduction The aim of this review was to investigate whether there is a faster cognitive decline in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) than in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) over time. Methods PsycINFO and Medline were searched from 1946 to February 2013. A quality rating from 1 to 15 (best) was applied to the included studies. A quantitative meta-analysis was done on studies with mini mental state examination (MMSE) as the outcome measure. Results A total of 18 studies were included. Of these, six (36%) reported significant differences in the rate of cognitive decline. Three studies reported a faster cognitive decline on MMSE in patients with mixed DLB and AD compared to pure forms, whereas two studies reported a faster decline on delayed recall and recognition in AD and one in DLB on verbal fluency. Mean quality scores for studies that did or did not differ were not significantly different. Six studies reported MMSE scores and were included in the meta-analysis, which showed no significant difference in annual decline on MMSE between DLB (mean 3.4) and AD (mean 3.3). Conclusions Our findings do not support the hypothesis of a faster rate of cognitive decline in DLB compared to AD. Future studies should apply recent diagnostic criteria, as well as extensive diagnostic evaluation and ideally autopsy diagnosis. Studies with large enough samples, detailed cognitive tests, at least two years follow up and multivariate statistical analysis are also needed. PMID:25478024

Does monosodium glutamate really cause headache? : a systematic review of human studies.

PubMed

Obayashi, Yoko; Nagamura, Yoichi

2016-01-01

Although monosodium glutamate (MSG) is classified as a causative substance of headache in the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd edition (ICHD-III beta), there is no literature in which causal relationship between MSG and headache was comprehensively reviewed. We performed systematic review of human studies which include the incidence of headache after an oral administration of MSG. An analysis was made by separating the human studies with MSG administration with or without food, because of the significant difference of kinetics of glutamate between those conditions (Am J Clin Nutr 37:194-200, 1983; J Nutr 130:1002S-1004S, 2000) and there are some papers which report the difference of the manifestation of symptoms after MSG ingestion with or without food (Food Chem Toxicol 31:1019-1035, 1993; J Nutr 125:2891S-2906S, 1995). Of five papers including six studies with food, none showed a significant difference in the incidence of headache except for the female group in one study. Of five papers including seven studies without food, four studies showed a significant difference. Many of the studies involved administration of MSG in solution at high concentrations (>2 %). Since the distinctive MSG is readily identified at such concentrations, these studies were thought not to be properly blinded. Because of the absence of proper blinding, and the inconsistency of the findings, we conclude that further studies are required to evaluate whether or not a causal relationship exists between MSG ingestion and headache.

Booster propulsion/vehicle impact study, 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, P.; Satterthwaite, S.; Carson, C.; Schnackel, J.

1988-01-01

This is the final report in a study examining the impact of launch vehicles for various boost propulsion design options. These options included: differing boost phase engines using different combinations of fuels and coolants to include RP-1, methane, propane (subcooled and normal boiling point), and hydrogen; variable and high mixture ratio hydrogen engines; translating nozzles on boost phase engines; and cross feeding propellants from the booster to second stage. Vehicles examined included a fully reusable two stage cargo vehicle and a single stage to orbit vehicle. The use of subcooled propane as a fuel generated vehicles with the lowest total vehicle dry mass. Engines with hydrogen cooling generated only slight mass reductions from the reference, all-hydrogen vehicle. Cross feeding propellants generated the most significant mass reductions from the reference two stage vehicle. The use of high mixture ratio or variable mixture ratio hydrogen engines in the boost phase of flight resulted in vehicles with total dry mass 20 percent greater than the reference hydrogen vehicle. Translating nozzles for boost phase engines generated a heavier vehicle. Also examined were the design impacts on the vehicle and ground support subsystems when subcooled propane is used as a fuel. The most significant cost difference between facilities to handle normal boiling point versus subcooled propane is 5 million dollars. Vehicle cost differences were negligible. A significant technical challenge exists for properly conditioning the vehicle propellant on the ground and in flight when subcooled propane is used as fuel.

Right-handers have negligibly higher IQ scores than left-handers: Systematic review and meta-analyses.

PubMed

Ntolka, Eleni; Papadatou-Pastou, Marietta

2018-01-01

The relationship between intelligence and handedness remains a matter of debate. The present study is a systematic review of 36 studies (totaling 66,108 individuals), which have measured full IQ scores in different handedness groups. Eighteen of those studies were further included in three sets of meta-analyses (totaling 20,442 individuals), which investigated differences in standardized mean IQ scores in (i) left-handers, (ii) non-right-handers, and (iii) mixed-handers compared to right-handers. The bulk of the studies included in the systematic review reported no differences in IQ scores between left- and right-handers. In the meta-analyses, statistically significant differences in mean IQ scores were detected between right-handers and left-handers, but were marginal in magnitude (d=-0.07); the data sets were found to be homogeneous. Significance was lost when the largest study was excluded. No differences in mean IQ scores were found between right-handers and non-right-handers as well as between right-handers and mixed-handers. No sex differences were found. Overall, the intelligence differences between handedness groups in the general population are negligible. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

THE NEUROLOGICAL FACE OF CELIAC DISEASE.

PubMed

Işikay, Sedat; Kocamaz, Halil

2015-01-01

Several neurological disorders have also been widely described in celiac disease patients. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of accompanying different neurologic manifestations in children with celiac disease at the time of diagnosis and to discuss these manifestations in the light of the recent literature. This prospective cross sectional study included 297 children diagnosed with celiac disease. The medical records of all patients were reviewed. In neurological evaluation, totally 40 (13. 5%) of the 297 celiac patients had a neurological finding including headache, epilepsy, migraine, mental retardation, breath holding spells, ataxia, cerebral palsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Down syndrome and Turner syndrome in order of frequency. There was not any significant difference between the laboratory data of the patients with and without neurological manifestations. However; type 3a biopsy was statistically significantly more common among patients without neurological manifestations, while type 3b biopsy was statistically significantly more common among patients with neurological manifestations. It is important to keep in mind that in clinical course of celiac disease different neurological manifestations may be reported.

[Physical and chemical evaluation during refrigeration storage of salted catfish (Pseudoplatystoma sp.) in brine solution, and packed under vacuum].

PubMed

Rodríguez, Diana; Barrero, Marinela; Kodaira, Makie

2009-06-01

Salting fish in the south Venezuelan towns are still the main method of preserving fish including cutt, and salting fish process, storage and commercialization. As the result, salted-dried fish is particularly susceptible to spoilage by a number of factors, including lipid oxidation, browning meat. Packing salted fish product is an alternative increasing storage life time reducing lost of quality and enhancing the storage time. The present study evaluated the physic, chemist, and sensory quality of fish fillet from cat fish (Pseudoplatystoma sp.) from Apure state, Venezuela. Fillet fish were placed in brine solution at 36% of sodium chloride 1:2 fillet: brine solution; after, they were packed under followed conditions: vacuum, vacuum and storage under refrigeration condition, and room temperature. The results showed significant differences (p < 0.01) for moisture, salt content, and Aw. The fillets packed at vacuum and storage at 4 degrees C were significant different from the resting treatments; not significant differences were presented at room and refrigeration temperature after three moths. The best conditions treatment was vacuum packing and refrigeration at 4 degrees C.

Personality disorders among patients with panic disorder and individuals with high anxiety sensitivity.

PubMed

Osma, Jorge; García-Palacios, Azucena; Botella, Cristina; Barrada, Juan Ramón

2014-05-01

No studies have been found that compared the psychopathology features, including personality disorders, of Panic Disorder (PD) and Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia (PDA), and a nonclinical sample with anxiety vulnerability. The total sample included 152 participants, 52 in the PD/PDA, 45 in the high anxiety sensitivity (AS) sample, and 55 in the nonclinical sample. The participants in PD/PDA sample were evaluated with the structured interview ADIS-IV. The Brief Symptom Inventory and the MCMI-III were used in all three samples. Statistically significant differences were found between the PD/PDA and the nonclinical sample in all MCMI-III scales except for antisocial and compulsive. No significant differences were found between PD/PDA and the sample with high scores in AS. Phobic Anxiety and Paranoid Ideation were the only scales where there were significant differences between the PD/PDA sample and the high AS sample. Our findings showed that people who scored high on AS, despite not having a diagnosis of PD/PDA, were similar in regard to psychopathology features and personality to individuals with PD/PDA.

Vitamin D, Race, and Experimental Pain Sensitivity in Older Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis

PubMed Central

Glover, T.L.; Goodin, B.R.; Horgas, A.L.; Kindler, L.L.; King, C.D.; Sibille, K.T.; Peloquin, C.A.; Riley, J.L.; Staud, R.; Bradley, L.A.; Fillingim, R.B.

2012-01-01

Objective Low levels of serum circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D have been correlated with many health conditions, including chronic pain. Recent clinical practice guidelines define vitamin D levels < 20 ng/mL as deficient and values of 21–29 ng/mL as insufficient. Vitamin D insufficiency, including the most severe levels of deficiency, is more prevalent in black Americans. Ethnic and race group differences have been reported in both clinical and experimental pain, with black Americans reporting increased pain. The purpose of this study was to examine whether variation in vitamin D levels contribute to race differences in knee osteoarthritic pain. Methods The sample consisted of 94 participants (75% female), including 45 blacks and 49 whites with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. Average age was 55.8 years (range 45–71 years). Participants completed a questionnaire on knee osteoarthritic symptoms and underwent quantitative sensory testing, including measures of heat and mechanical pain sensitivity. Results Blacks had significantly lower levels of vitamin D compared to whites, demonstrated greater clinical pain, and showed greater sensitivity to mechanical and heat pain. Low levels of vitamin D predicted increased experimental pain sensitivity, but did not predict self-reported clinical pain. Group differences in vitamin D significantly predicted group differences in heat pain and pressure pain thresholds on the index knee and ipsilateral forearm. Conclusion These data demonstrate race differences in experimental pain are mediated by differences in vitamin D level. Vitamin D deficiency may be a risk factor for increased knee osteoarthritic pain in black Americans. PMID:23135697

Few differences in diet and health behaviors and perceptions were observed in adult urban Native American Indians by tribal association, gender, and age grouping.

PubMed

Carter, Tina L; Morse, Kristin L; Giraud, David W; Driskell, Judy A

2008-12-01

Diet and health behaviors and perceptions of adult urban Native American Indians in a large Midwestern city were evaluated for differences by tribal association, gender, and age grouping. The hypothesis was that human behavior is influenced by tribal association, gender, and age grouping in the subject population. The subjects included 33 men and 32 women, with 26 being Sioux; 22 Omaha; and 17 a combination of other tribes. The descriptive survey included two interviewer-administered 24-hour recalls. The majority of subjects were overweight or obese. Significant differences (P< .05) were observed in vitamin A and calcium intakes by tribal association. Men reported consuming significantly more (P< .05) kilocalories, vitamin C, and sodium. Over half the subjects consumed more than the recommended 20% to 35% kcal from fat, >or=10% kcal from saturated fat, and >or=300 mg cholesterol/d. Less than Estimated Average Requirements for vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron were consumed by 31%, 59%, and 6%, respectively; 79% consumed less than Adequate Intakes for calcium. Ninety-two percent consumed more than the Tolerable Upper Intake Level for sodium. Few differences were observed in the kilocalorie, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and sodium intakes of these Native American Indians by tribal association, gender, or age grouping. Significant differences in percentages consuming alcohol were observed by gender (P< .05) and by age grouping (P< .01). A significant difference (P< .01) was observed by gender regarding the subjects' perceptions of their being alcoholics. Overall, few differences were observed in diet and health behaviors and perceptions of adult urban Native American Indians by tribal association, gender, and age grouping.

Overview of the Altair Lunar Lander Thermal Control System Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stephan, Ryan A.

2010-01-01

NASA's Constellation Program has been developed to successfully return humans to the Lunar surface by 2020. The Constellation Program includes several different project offices including Altair, which is the next generation Lunar Lander. The planned Altair missions are very different than the Lunar missions accomplished during the Apollo era. These differences have resulted in a significantly different thermal control system architecture. The current paper will summarize the Altair mission architecture and the various operational phases. In addition, the derived thermal requirements will be presented. The paper will conclude with a brief description of the thermal control system designed to meet these unique and challenging thermal requirements.

Commitment to philosophy, teacher efficacy, and burnout among teachers of children with autism.

PubMed

Jennett, Heather K; Harris, Sandra L; Mesibov, Gary B

2003-12-01

Variables that may be related to burnout in teachers of students with autism, including commitment to an underlying philosophy of a treatment and professional self-efficacy, were explored. Teachers using one of two different treatment approaches to autism participated: those using Applied Behavior Analysis (n = 34), and those using TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication-Related Handicapped Children) (n = 30). Participants completed the Autism Treatment Philosophy Questionnaire, developed by the authors to differentiate between the philosophy of the approaches; Teacher Efficacy Scale, and Maslach Burnout Inventory. Results indicate a significant difference in philosophical commitment between the groups, but no differences in teaching efficacy or burnout. The relationship between a commitment to one's teaching approach and certain dimensions of teaching efficacy and burnout was found to be significant. Implications include the need for adequate training of teachers of students with autism.

Development of a reliable method to assess footwear comfort during running.

PubMed

Mündermann, Anne; Nigg, Benno M; Stefanyshyn, Darren J; Humble, R Neil

2002-08-01

The purposes of this study were: (a) to determine whether subjects are able to distinguish between differences in footwear with respect to footwear comfort; and (b) to determine how reliably footwear comfort can be assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) and a protocol including a control condition during running. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) between comfort ratings for repeated conditions were high (ICC = 0.799). Differences in comfort ratings between the insert conditions were significant. A paired t-test revealed a significant difference in overall comfort ratings for the control insert when tested after the soft insert compared to when tested after the hard insert (P = 0.008). The results of this study showed that VASs provide a reliable measure to assess footwear comfort during running under the conditions that: (a) a control condition is included; and (b) the average comfort rating of sessions 4-6 is used. Copyright 2002 Elsevier Science B.V.

Prevalence and degree of hearing loss among males in Beaver Dam cohort: comparison of veterans and nonveterans.

PubMed

Wilson, Richard H; Noe, Colleen M; Cruickshanks, Karen J; Wiley, Terry L; Nondahl, David M

2010-01-01

The Epidemiology of Hearing Loss Study (EHLS) conducted in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, was a population-based study that focused on the prevalence of hearing loss among 3,753 participants between 1993 and 1995. This article reports the results of several auditory measures from 999 veteran and 590 nonveteran males 48 to 92 years of age included in the EHLS. The auditory measures included pure tone thresholds, tympanometry and acoustic reflexes, word recognition in quiet and in competing message, and the Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly-Screening (HHIE-S) version. Hearing loss in the auditory domains of pure tone thresholds, word recognition in quiet, and word recognition in competing message increased with age but were not significantly different for the veterans and nonveterans. No significant differences were found between participant groups on the HHIE-S; however, regarding hearing aid usage, mixed differences were found.

Gender Difference in the Prevalence of Eating Disorder Symptoms

PubMed Central

Striegel-Moore, Ruth H.; Rosselli, Francine; Perrin, Nancy; DeBar, Lynn; Wilson, G. Terence; May, Alexis; Kraemer, Helena C.

2009-01-01

Objective This study examined gender differences in prevalence of eating disorder symptoms including body image concerns (body checking or avoidance), binge eating, and inappropriate compensatory behaviors. Method A random sample of members (ages 18 to 35) of a health maintenance organization was recruited to complete a survey by mail or on-line. Items were drawn from the Patient Health Questionnaire and the Body Shape Questionnaire. Results Among the 3,714 women and 1,808 men who responded, men were more likely to report overeating whereas women were more likely to endorse loss of control while eating. Although statistically significant gender differences were observe, with women significantly more likely than men to report body checking and avoidance, binge eating, fasting, and vomiting, effect sizes (“Number Needed to Treat”) were small to moderate. Conclusions Few studies of eating disorders include men, yet our findings suggest that a substantial minority of men also report eating disorder symptoms. PMID:19107833

Ultrasound and thyroiditis in patient candidates for thyroidectomy.

PubMed

Del Rio, P; De Simone, B; Fumagalli, M; Viani, L; Totaro, A; Sianesi, M

2015-03-01

Thyroiditis is often associated with nodules based on the Bethesda classification system, and the presence of thyroiditis can make thyroid surgery difficult using both conventional techniques and minimally invasive videoassisted approaches (MIVAT). We analyzed 326 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy in 2012. We collected all data in dedicated database. The patients were divided in 4 groups: group 1 no affected by thyroiditis, group 2 affected by thyroiditis, group 3 only histological diagnosis of thyroiditis, group 4all patients affected by thyroiditis. Group 1 included 201 cases, group 2 included 64 patients, group 3 included 61 patients. No statistically significant difference between group 2 and 3 about Ultrasound (US) examination. Statistically significant difference in incidence of "THYR 3-4" between group 1 and group 4. No differences in MIVAT vs. Conventional group. US examination of the thyroid is essential for the diagnostic study of the gland also in the selection of a surgical approach. Thyroiditis is a relative contraindication to MIVAT but the experience of the endocrine surgeon is the most important factor to reduce intra and postoperative complications together a correct collaboration in multidisciplinart endocrinological team.

Conventions of Courtship: Gender and Race Differences in the Significance of Dating Rituals

PubMed Central

Jackson, Pamela Braboy; Kleiner, Sibyl; Geist, Claudia; Cebulko, Kara

2012-01-01

Dating rituals include dating-courtship methods that are regularly enacted. We explored gender and race differences in the relative importance placed on certain symbolic activities previously identified by the dating literature as constituting such rituals. Using information collected from a racially diverse sample of college students (N = 680), we find that some traditional gender differences persist, but that these are also cross-cut by racial contrasts. Men, overall, place more emphasis on gifting, as well as sexual activity. Gender differences, however, are significantly greater among African Americans1 as compared to Whites in our sample. African American respondents are also significantly more likely than White respondents to associate meeting the family with a more serious dating relationship. Our findings highlight the need for greater efforts to uncover and account for racial differences in dating, relationships, and courtship. PMID:23049154

Methodologies, bioindicators, and biomarkers for assessing gender-related differences in wildlife exposed to environmental chemicals.

PubMed

Burger, Joanna; Fossi, Cristina; McClellan-Green, Patricia; Orlando, Edward F

2007-05-01

Male and female organisms may have significant differences in their exposure, toxicokinetics, and response to chemicals, but gender effects have received relatively little attention, often viewed as a confounder rather than of primary importance. In this paper, we examine some of the key issues and methodologies for incorporating gender in studies of the effects of chemicals on wildlife, and explore bioindicators and biomarkers of gender effects. Examining gender-related differences in response to chemicals is complicated in wildlife because of the vast array of species, and differences in niches, lifespans, reproductive cycles and modes, and population dynamics. Further, organisms are more at risk in some ecosystems than others, which may increase the magnitude of effects. Only by studying wild animals, especially native species, can we truly understand the potential impact of gender-specific effects of chemical exposure on populations. Several factors affect gender-related differences in responses to chemicals, including exposure, age, size, seasonality, and genetic and phenotypic variation. There are clear examples where gender-related differences have had significant effects on reproductive success and population stability, including destabilization of gamete release in invertebrates, and alterations of endocrine and neuroendocrine system functioning in vertebrates. A wide range of new technologies and methods are available for examining gender-related differences in responses to chemicals. We provide examples that show that there are gender-related differences in responses to chemicals that have significant biological effects, and these gender-related differences should be taken into account by scientists, regulators, and policy makers, as well as the public.

Agriculture and Climate Change in Global Scenarios: Why Don't the Models Agree

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

Nelson, Gerald; van der Mensbrugghe, Dominique; Ahammad, Helal

Agriculture is unique among economic sectors in the nature of impacts from climate change. The production activity that transforms inputs into agricultural outputs makes direct use of weather inputs. Previous studies of the impacts of climate change on agriculture have reported substantial differences in outcomes of key variables such as prices, production, and trade. These divergent outcomes arise from differences in model inputs and model specification. The goal of this paper is to review climate change results and underlying determinants from a model comparison exercise with 10 of the leading global economic models that include significant representation of agriculture. Bymore » providing common productivity drivers that include climate change effects, differences in model outcomes are reduced. All models show higher prices in 2050 because of negative productivity shocks from climate change. The magnitude of the price increases, and the adaptation responses, differ significantly across the various models. Substantial differences exist in the structural parameters affecting demand, area, and yield, and should be a topic for future research.« less

Novel Nomogram That Predicts Aggressive Disease and Treatment Failure Among African-American Men with Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

analyzed including TMPRSS2-ERG, AMACR, PSMA , RB, c- Myc, and AR. We observed statistically significant differences in biomarker expression between EA...biomarkers have been analyzed so far including TMPRSS2-ERG, AMACR, PSMA , RB, c-Myc, and AR. In this cohort we observed statistically significant...markers or markers that give relative intensity - p53, p63, Ki67, PSMA , AR - Other 12 markers will be read as present/absent/indeterminate etc

Treadmill Exercise Improves Fitness and Reduces Craving and Use of Cocaine in Individuals with Concurrent Cocaine and Tobacco-use Disorder

PubMed Central

De La Garza, Richard; Yoon, Jin H.; Thompson-Lake, Daisy G.Y.; Haile, Colin N.; Eisenhofer, Joel D.; Newton, Thomas F.; Mahoney, James J.

2016-01-01

Exercise may be a useful treatment for substance use disorders. Participants (N=24) included treatment-seeking individuals with concurrent cocaine and tobacco-use disorder (cigarette smokers). Participants were randomized to either running or walking (30 min per session, 3 times per week) or sitting (control condition) for 4 consecutive weeks. Several metrics indicated significant differences among runners, walkers, and sitters during sessions, including mean distance covered and calories burned. In addition, remote physiological monitoring showed that the groups differed significantly according to mean maximum heart rate (HR), respiration, and locomotor activity. Across the 4-week study, exercise improved fitness measures including significantly decreasing resting HR. Though not statistically significant, exercise improved abstinence from cocaine and increased self-reports of no cocaine use in last 24h. In general, reductions in tobacco use and craving were not as robust. To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the effects of a multi-week exercise program in individuals with concurrent cocaine and tobacco-use disorder. The data clearly show significant improvements in basic fitness measures and several indices reveal that exercise improved both self-report and biochemically verified reports of cocaine abstinence. Taken together, the data from this study provides preliminary evidence for the efficacy of exercise for improving fitness and reducing cocaine use. PMID:27541349

Expression and significance of cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA in benign and malignant ascites

PubMed Central

Lu, Jing; Li, Xiao-Feng; Kong, Li-Xia; Ma, Lin; Liao, Su-Huan; Jiang, Chang-You

2013-01-01

AIM: To investigate the mRNA expression of cyclooxygensae-2 (COX-2) in benign and malignant ascites, and to explore the difference in COX-2 mRNA expression among different diseases. METHODS: A total of 36 samples were collected from the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University and divided into two experimental groups: benign ascites (n = 21) and malignant ascites (n = 15). Benign ascites included cirrhotic ascites (n = 10) and tuberculous ascites (n = 5). Malignant ascites included oophoroma (n = 7), cancer of colon (n = 5), cancer of the liver (n = 6), gastric cancer (n = 2), and bladder carcinoma (n = 1). The mRNA expression of COX-2 in ascites was examined with reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technology, and the positive rate of COX-2 mRNA was compared between different diseases. RESULTS: The positive rate of COX-2 mRNA in malignant ascites was 42.9% (9/21), which was significantly higher than in benign ascites, 6.7% (1/15), difference being significant between these two groups (χ2 = 4.051, P = 0.044). The proportion of the positive rate in the malignant ascites was as follows: ovarian cancers 57.1% (4/7), colon cancer 40.0% (2/5), liver cancer 33.3% (2/6), gastric cancer 50.0% (1/2), and bladder cancer 0.00% (0/1). However, there was no significant difference in COX-2 mRNA expression among various tumors with malignant ascites (χ2 = 1.614, P = 0.806). Among the benign ascites, COX-2 mRNA levels were different between the tuberculous ascites (0/5) and cirrhotic ascites (1/10), but there was no significant difference (P = 1.000). CONCLUSION: COX-2 mRNA, detected by RT-PCR, is useful in the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant ascites, which also has potential value in the clinical diagnosis of tumors. PMID:24187465

Essential fatty acids supplementation in different-stage atopic dogs fed on a controlled diet.

PubMed

Abba, C; Mussa, P P; Vercelli, A; Raviri, G

2005-01-01

The aim of this trial was to evaluate the effects of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation in different-stages atopic dogs fed on a controlled diet. Twenty-two non-seasonal atopic dogs of different breeds and ages were included in the 2-month trial. All the patients were given an essential fatty acid (EFA) supplementation [17 mg/kg eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) + 5 mg/kg docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) + 35 mg/kg gammalinolenic acid (GLA)], the global (diet + supplementation) omega-6 to omega-3 ratio was 5.5-1. Two groups of dogs were considered: group A 'pre-immunotherapy' (15 cases) included dogs with early stages atopy, which had not been submitted to any treatment yet; group B 'post-immunotherapy' (seven cases) included dogs with chronic atopy immunotherapy non-responsive. Clinical evaluations were performed at the beginning, on day 30 and at the end of the trial. Blood serum fatty acids profile was determined at the beginning and at the end of the study. Better clinical results were obtained in group A, a great difference was found between the two groups on pruritus score. Serum arachidonic acid (AA) was significantly lower at the end of the trial in group A while GLA was significantly higher in group B. We hypothesized that different-stages atopic dogs could have different response to EFA supplementation, maybe because of a different fatty acids metabolism. Early stages cases seem to be more responsive to EFA supplementation.

Effect of bisphosphonates on periprosthetic bone loss after total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Shi, Mingmin; Chen, Lei; Wu, Haobo; Wang, Yangxin; Wang, Wei; Zhang, Yujie; Yan, Shigui

2018-05-30

Aseptic loosening and osteolysis are the most common indications after TKA for revision surgery. This meta-analysis which included high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to analyze the effect of bisphosphonates (BPs) on maintaining periprosthetic bone mineral density (BMD) after total knee arthroplasty. PubMed, AMED, EMBASE, the Cochrane library, ISI Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure were systematically searched, five RCTs were included and the total number of participants was 188. The weighted mean differences with 95% confidence interval were calculated to evaluate the efficacy of BPs on total BMD of knee and the BMD of different periprosthetic regions. A descriptive review was performed for BP-related adverse effects. The BPs group presented significantly higher total BMD in proximal part of the tibia than the control group at 3 and 6 months (P < 0.05), but no significant difference at 12 months (P = 0.09). The BPs group presented significantly higher BMD in the distal aspect of the femur than that in the control group at 3, 6, 12 months. The BPs group presented significantly higher periprosthetic BMD than that in the control group at 3, 6 and 12 months in tibial medial and lateral metaphyseal region, and femoral anterior, central and posterior metaphyseal region (p < 0.05), but no significant difference for tibial diaphyseal region at 3, 6, and 12 months. None of the included studies described severe or fatal adverse effects related to BPs. BPs have a short-term effect on reducing periprosthetic bone loss after total knee arthroplasty. Compared with diaphyseal region, BPs are more effective on the preservation of BMD in medial lateral metaphyseal regions of proximal tibia and in anterior, central, and posterior metaphyseal region of distal femur.

Evaluation of the DSM-5 severity indicator for bulimia nervosa.

PubMed

Grilo, Carlos M; Ivezaj, Valentina; White, Marney A

2015-04-01

This study examined the DSM-5 severity criterion for bulimia nervosa (BN) based on the frequency of inappropriate weight compensatory behaviors. 199 community volunteers classified with BN were categorized using DSM-5 severity levels and compared on demographic and clinical variables. 77 (39%) participants were categorized as mild, 68 (34%) as moderate, 32 (16%) as severe, and 22 (11%) as extreme. The severity groups did not differ significantly in demographic variables or body mass index. Shape and Weight concerns did not differ significantly across severity groups. Binge eating differed with the extreme group having significantly higher frequency than the severe, moderate, and mild groups, which did not differ from each other. Restraint differed with the extreme group having significantly higher levels than the mild group. Eating concerns differed with the extreme group having significantly higher levels than moderate and mild groups. Depression differed with the extreme group having significantly higher levels than severe, moderate, and mild groups, which did not differ from each other. Findings from this non-clinical group provide new, albeit modest, support for DSM-5 severity rating for BN based on frequency of inappropriate weight compensatory behaviors. Statistical findings indicate that differences in collateral clinical variables associated with the DSM-5 severity ratings reflect small effect sizes. Further research is needed with treatment-seeking patient groups with BN to establish the validity of the DSM-5 severity specifier and should include broader clinical and functional validators. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[The relationship between accommodative accuracy at different near-work distances and early-onset myopia].

PubMed

Yu, Q W; Zhang, P; Zhou, S B; Hu, Y; Ji, M X; Luo, Y C; You, H L; Yao, Z X

2016-07-01

To observe the accommodative accuracy of children with early-onset myopia at different near-work distances, and discuss the relationship between accommodative accuracy and early-onset myopia. This was a case-control study. Thirty-seven emmetropic children, 41 early-onset myopic children without correction, and 39 early-onset myopic children with spectacles, aged 7 to 13 years, were included. Measures of refractive errors and accommodative accuracy at four near-work distances, including 50 cm, 40 cm, 30 cm, and 20 cm, were made using the binocular fusion cross cylinder (FCC) of an automatic phoropter. Most candidates showed accommodative lags, including the children with emmetropia. The ratio of lags in all candidates at different near-work distances was 75.21% (50 cm), 87.18% (40 cm), 92.31% (30 cm), and 98.29% (20 cm), respectively. All accommodative accuracies became worse, and the accommodative lag ratio and values of FCC increased, along with the shortening of the distance. The difference in accommodative accuracy among groups was statistically significant at 30 cm (χ(2)=7.852, P= 0.020) and 20 cm (χ(2)=6.480, P=0.039). The values of FCC among groups were significantly different at 30 cm (F=3.626, P=0.030) and 20 cm (F=3.703, P=0.028), but not at 50 cm and 40 cm (P>0.05). In addition, the FCC values of 30 cm and 20 cm had a statistically significant difference between myopic children without correction [(1.25±0.44) D and (1.76±0.43) D] and emmetropic children [(0.95±0.52) D and (1.41±0.58) D] (P=0.012, 0.008). The correlation between diopters of myopia and accommodative accuracy at different nearwork distances was not statistically significant (P>0.05). However, the correlation between diopters of myopia and the accommodative lag value (FCC) at 20 cm was statistically significant (r=0.246, P=0.028). The closer the near-work distance is, the worse the accommodative accuracy is. This is more significant in early-onset myopia, especially myopia without correction, than emmetropia. Wearing spectacles may improve the threshold and sensitivity of accommodations, and the accommodative accuracy at near-work distances (<30 cm) to some extent. The poor accommodative accuracy at near-work distances may be not related to early-onset myopia, but the value of FCC (20 cm) is related to early-onset myopia. The higher the FCC value is, the higher the diopter is. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2016, 52: 520-524).

A multicenter interracial study of facial appearance. Part 2: A comparison of intraoral parameters.

PubMed

Owens, Edward G; Goodacre, Charles J; Loh, Poey Ling; Hanke, Gilberto; Okamura, Mitsunobu; Jo, Kwang-hun; Muñoz, Carlos A; Naylor, W Patrick

2002-01-01

This article compares interracial or gender differences of six intraoral dental parameters among six racial groups (African American, Caucasian, Chinese, Hispanic, Japanese, and Korean). The same 253 patients participating in part 1 were included in this portion of the study to evaluate six intraoral parameters. The data were collected and analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance, followed by the Tukey-Kramer test for honestly significant difference when statistically significant differences were found (P < .05). Women displayed significantly more gingival tissue in four of the six races, and African Americans displayed significantly more gingival tissue than any other race. Women had significantly more missing teeth than men in three of the six races studied. Japanese subjects had significantly fewer missing teeth and smaller maxillary central incisors than all other groups except Caucasians. Women had significantly narrower maxillary central incisors in three of the races. There was a significantly higher prevalence of Angle Class III relationships in Chinese subjects. The Japanese had significantly more Class II molar relationships than other races. Racial and gender differences were found in gingival tissue display, the number of missing teeth, maxillary right central incisor crown width, and Angle molar classification, but not in the amount of vertical or horizontal overlap of the anterior teeth.

Differences in Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage Cases between Urban and Rural Regions of Taiwan: Big Data Analytics of Government Open Data

PubMed Central

Ting, Hsien-Wei; Chien, Ting-Ying; Lai, K. Robert; Wu, Kuan-Hsien; Chen, Jun-Min

2017-01-01

This study evaluated the differences in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) between rural and urban areas of Taiwan with big data analysis. We used big data analytics and visualization tools to examine government open data, which included the residents’ health medical administrative data, economic status, educational status, and relevant information. The study subjects included sICH patients of Taipei region (29,741 cases) and Eastern Taiwan (4565 cases). The incidence of sICH per 100,000 population per year in Eastern Taiwan (71.3 cases) was significantly higher than that of the Taipei region (42.3 cases). The mean coverage area per hospital in Eastern Taiwan (452.4 km2) was significantly larger than the Taipei region (24 km2). The residents educational level in the Taipei region was significantly higher than that in Eastern Taiwan. The mean hospital length of stay in the Taipei region (17.9 days) was significantly greater than that in Eastern Taiwan (16.3 days) (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in other medical profiles between two areas. Distance and educational barriers were two possible reasons for the higher incidence of sICH in the rural area of Eastern Taiwan. Further studies are necessary in order to understand these phenomena in greater depth. PMID:29232864

HEMATOLOGY AND PLASMA CHEMISTRY OF THE PLOUGHSHARE TORTOISE (ASTROCHELYS YNIPHORA) IN A CAPTIVE BREEDING PROGRAM.

PubMed

López, Javier; Waters, Michael; Routh, Andrew; Rakotonanahary, Tsanta F; Woolaver, Lance; Thomasson, Ann; Holmes, Emma; Steinmetz, Hanspeter W

2017-03-01

Blood samples from 172 captive and 40 wild, healthy, juvenile and adult, ploughshare tortoises ( Astrochelys yniphora ) were analyzed to determine hematological and biochemical reference intervals. Hematological analytes included packed cell volume (PCV), white blood cell count (WBC), and WBC differential estimates. Biochemical analysis included total protein measured by photometry (TP) and by refractometry (TPr), albumin (ALB), creatine kinase (CK), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH), bile acids (BA), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), urea (UREA), and uric acid (UA). The jugular vein was identified as the preferred venipuncture site as subcarapacial vein venipuncture resulted in regular hemodilution. In due consideration of small sample sizes in some of the groups studied, adult tortoises had significantly higher plasma GLDH activity and TPr, TP, ALB, BA, and UREA concentrations and significantly lower AST activity and P concentration than juveniles. Captivity had a significant influence in some reference intervals, with captive adults presenting significantly higher WBC, and estimated counts of all white cell types as well as UREA and TPr than wild counterparts. Captive juveniles also showed significantly higher estimated monocyte and lower estimated eosinophil and basophil counts. Although these differences most likely reflect local environmental or dietary differences, without representing pathology or a deviation from the normal, they question the applicability of reference values from captive animals to wild animals and vice versa. Significant sex differences were only observed for PCV and UA. The reported reference intervals may serve as benchmarks for clinical assessment and conservation of this critically endangered species.

Racial Differences in Adolescents' Answering Questions About Suicide.

PubMed

Anderson, Laura M; Lowry, Lynda S; Wuensch, Karl L

2015-01-01

The present purpose was to examine racial differences in response rate and serious behavioral suicide risk based on the national Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey (YRBS). Data from 15,245 adolescents (YRBS, 2011) were included. Survey items pertaining to making suicidal plans and attempting suicide were included. Significant differences in responding and content emerged, especially with regard to suicide attempts. Racial minority adolescents are at elevated risk for serious suicidal behaviors and are more likely to omit items pertaining to suicide attempts. African American adolescents rarely reported having attempted suicide, but they also frequently failed to respond to that question.

Meta-analysis of Theory of Mind (ToM) impairment in bipolar disorder.

PubMed

Bora, E; Bartholomeusz, C; Pantelis, C

2016-01-01

Theory of mind (ToM) dysfunction is prominent in a number of psychiatric disorders, in particular, autism and schizophrenia, and can play a significant role in poor functioning. There is now emerging evidence suggesting that ToM abilities are also impaired in bipolar disorder (BP); however, the relationship between ToM deficits and mood state is not clear. We conducted a meta-analysis of ToM studies in BP. Thirty-four studies comparing 1214 patients with BP and 1097 healthy controls were included. BP groups included remitted (18 samples, 545 BP patients), subsyndromal (12 samples, 510 BP patients), and acute (manic and/or depressed) (10 samples, 159 BP patients) patients. ToM performance was significantly impaired in BP compared to controls. This impairment was evident across different types of ToM tasks (including affective/cognitive and verbal/visual) and was also evident in strictly euthymic patients with BP (d = 0.50). There were no significant differences between remitted and subsyndromal samples. However, ToM deficit was significantly more severe during acute episodes (d = 1.23). ToM impairment was significantly associated with neurocognitive and particularly with manic symptoms. Significant but modest sized ToM dysfunction is evident in remitted and subsyndromal BP. Acute episodes are associated with more robust ToM deficits. Exacerbation of ToM deficits may contribute to the more significant interpersonal problems observed in patients with acute or subsyndromal manic symptoms. There is a need for longitudinal studies comparing the developmental trajectory of ToM deficits across the course of the illness.

The effects of presence and influence in nature images in a simulated hospital patient room.

PubMed

Vincent, Ellen; Battisto, Dina; Grimes, Larry

2010-01-01

Nature images are frequently used for therapeutic purposes in hospital settings. Nature images may distract people from pain and promote psychological and physiological well-being, yet limited research is available to guide the selection process of nature images. The hypothesis is that higher degrees of presence and/or influence in the still photograph make it more effective at holding the viewer's attention, which therefore may distract the viewer from pain, and therefore be considered therapeutic. Research questions include: (1) Is there a significant difference in the level of perceived presence among the selected images? (2) Is there a significant difference in the level of perceived influence among the selected images? (3) Is there a correlation between levels of presence and levels of influence? 109 college students were randomly assigned to one of four different image categories defined by Appleton's prospect refuge theory of landscape preference. Categories included prospect, refuge, hazard, and mixed prospect and refuge. A control group was also included. Each investigation was divided into five periods: prereporting, rest, a pain stressor (hand in ice water for up to 120 seconds), recovery, and postreporting. Physiological readings (vital signs) were measured repeatedly using a Dinamap automatic vital sign tracking machine. Psychological responses (mood) to the image were collected using a reliable instrument, the Profile of Mood States. No significant statistical difference in levels of presence was found among the four image categories. However, levels of influence differed and the hazard nature image category had significantly higher influence ratings and lower diastolic blood pressure readings during the pain treatment. A correlation (r = .62) between presence and influence was identified; as one rose, so did the other. Mood state was significantly low for the hazard nature image after the pain stressor experience. Though the hazard image caused distraction from pain, it is nontherapeutic because of the low mood ratings it received. These preliminary findings contribute methodology to the research field and stimulate interest for additional research into the visual effects of nature images on pain.

Arthroscopy for treating temporomandibular joint disorders.

PubMed

Currie, Roger

2011-01-01

The Cochrane Oral Health Group Trials Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Medline Embase, Lilacs, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED) and CINAHL databases were searched. In addition the reference lists of the included articles were checked and 14 journals hand searched. Randomised controlled clinical trials (RCT) of arthroscopy for treating TMDs were included. There were no restrictions regarding the language or date of publication. Two review authors independently extracted data, and three review authors independently assessed the risk of bias of included trials. The authors of the selected articles were contacted for additional information. Pooling of trials was only attempted if at least two trials of comparable protocols, with the same conditions and similar outcome measurements were available. Statistical analysis was performed in accordance with the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines. Seven RCTs (n = 349) met the inclusion criteria. All the studies were either at high or unclear risk of bias. Pain was evaluated after six months in two studies. No statistically significant differences were found between the arthroscopy versus nonsurgical groups (standardised mean difference (SMD) = 0.004; 95% confidence interval (CI) - 0.46 to 0.55, P = 0.81). Two studies analysed pain 12 months after surgery (arthroscopy and arthrocentesis) in 81 patients. No statistically significant differences were found (mean difference (MD) = 0.10; 95% CI -1.46 to 1.66, P = 0.90). Three studies analysed the same outcome in patients who had been submitted to arthroscopic surgery or to open surgery and a statistically significant difference was found after 12 months (SMD = 0.45; 95% CI 0.01 to 0.89, P = 0.05) in favour of open surgery.The two studies compared the maximum interincisal opening in six different clinical outcomes (interincisal opening over 35 mm; maximum protrusion over 5 mm; click; crepitation; tenderness on palpation in the TMJ and the jaw muscles 12 months after arthroscopy and open surgery). The outcome measures did not present statistically significant differences (odds ratio (OR) = 1.00; 95% CI 0.45 to 2.21, P = 1.00). Two studies compared the maximum interincisal opening after 12 months of postsurgical follow-up. A statistically significant difference in favour of the arthroscopy group was observed (MD = 5.28; 95% CI 3.46 to 7.10, P < 0.0001).The two studies compared the mandibular function after 12 months of follow-up with 40 patients evaluated. The outcome measure was mandibular functionality (MFIQ). This difference was not statistically significant (MD = 1.58; 95% CI -0.78 to 3.94, P = 0.19). Both arthroscopy and nonsurgical treatments reduced pain after six months. When compared with arthroscopy, open surgery was more effective at reducing pain after 12 months. Nevertheless, there were no differences in mandibular functionality or in other outcomes in clinical evaluations. Arthroscopy led to greater improvement in maximum interincisal opening after 12 months than arthrocentesis; however, there was no difference in pain.

Elementary Science Education in Classrooms and Outdoors: Stakeholder views, gender, ethnicity, and testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carrier, Sarah J.; Thomson, Margareta M.; Tugurian, Linda P.; Tate Stevenson, Kathryn

2014-09-01

In this article, we present a mixed-methods study of 2 schools' elementary science programs including outdoor instruction specific to each school's culture. We explore fifth-grade students in measures of science knowledge, environmental attitudes, and outdoor comfort levels including gender and ethnic differences. We further examine students' science and outdoor views and activity choices along with those of adults (teachers, parents, and principals). Significant differences were found between pre- and posttest measures along with gender and ethnic differences with respect to students' science knowledge and environmental attitudes. Interview data exposed limitations of outdoor learning at both schools including standardized test pressures, teachers' views of science instruction, and desultory connections of alternative learning settings to 'school' science.

Retropubic versus transobturator tension-free vaginal tape (TVT vs TVT-O): Five-year results of the Austrian randomized trial.

PubMed

Tammaa, Ayman; Aigmüller, Thomas; Hanzal, Engelbert; Umek, Wolfgang; Kropshofer, Stephan; Lang, Peter F J; Ralph, George; Riss, Paul; Koelle, Dieter; Jundt, Katharina; Tamussino, Karl; Bjelic-Radisic, Vesna

2018-01-01

To compare outcomes of the retropubic versus the transobturator tension-free vaginal tape (TVT vs TVT-O) at 5 years. A total of 569 women undergoing surgery for primary stress incontinence were randomized to receive a retropubic or a transobturator tensionfree vaginal tape (TVT or TVT-O). Follow-up at 5 years included clinical examination, urodynamic studies and quality of life. The primary outcome measure was continence defined as a negative cough stress test at a volume of 300 mL. Secondary outcomes included urodynamic parameters, complications and quality of life.ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT 0041454). Three hundred and thirty-one patients (59%) were evaluated at 5 years (277 were seen, examined and completed questionnaires; 54 only completed questionnaires). No significant differences were seen in rates of a negative cough stress test (83% vs 76%, respectively), urodynamic parameters and complications. Quality-of-life improved significantly in both groups, without significant differences between the groups. Erosion rates were 5.2% and 4.5%, and reoperation rates were 4.1% and 3.2% respectively. At 5 years, subjective and objective results after TVT and TVT-O are stable and similar, without statistical significant differences between the procedures. Major long-term problems appear rare. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Association of the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene polymorphisms with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the Japanese population.

PubMed

Liu, Xiaoxi; Kawamura, Yoshiya; Shimada, Takafumi; Otowa, Takeshi; Koishi, Shinko; Sugiyama, Toshiro; Nishida, Hisami; Hashimoto, Ohiko; Nakagami, Ryoichi; Tochigi, Mamoru; Umekage, Tadashi; Kano, Yukiko; Miyagawa, Taku; Kato, Nobumasa; Tokunaga, Katsushi; Sasaki, Tsukasa

2010-03-01

The oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene, which is located on chromosome 3p25.3, has been implicated as a candidate gene for susceptibility of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Positive associations between OXTR and ASD have been reported in earlier studies. However, the results were inconsistent and demand further studies. In this study, we investigated the associations between OXTR and ASD in a Japanese population by analyzing 11 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using both family-based association test (FBAT) and population-based case-control test. No significant signal was detected in the FBAT test. However, significant differences were observed in allelic frequencies of four SNPs, including rs2254298 between patients and controls. The risk allele of rs2254298 was 'A', which was consistent with the previous study in Chinese, and not with the observations in Caucasian. The difference in the risk allele of this SNP in previous studies might be attributable to an ethnic difference in the linkage disequilibrium structure between the Asians and Caucasians. In addition, haplotype analysis exhibits a significant association between a five-SNP haplotype and ASD, including rs22542898. In conclusion, our study might support that OXTR has a significant role in conferring the risk of ASD in the Japanese population.

A comparison study of body dysmorphic disorder versus social phobia

PubMed Central

Kelly, Megan M.; Dalrymple, Kristy; Zimmerman, Mark; Phillips, Katharine A.

2012-01-01

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) shares many characteristics with social phobia (SP), including high levels of social anxiety and avoidance, but to our knowledge no studies have directly compared these disorders’ demographic and clinical features. Demographic and clinical features were compared in individuals with BDD (n=172), SP (n=644), and comorbid BDD/SP (n=125). SP participants had a significantly earlier age of onset and lower educational attainment than BDD participants. BDD participants were significantly less likely to ever be married than SP participants, had a greater likelihood of ever being psychiatrically hospitalized, and had significantly lower mean GAF scores than SP participants. The two groups had different comorbidity patterns, which included a greater likelihood for BDD participants to have comorbid obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or an eating disorder, versus a greater likelihood for SP participants to have a comorbid non-OCD anxiety disorder. The comorbid BDD/SP group had significantly greater morbidity across several domains than the SP only group, but not the BDD only group. In summary, although BDD and SP were similar across many demographic and clinical features, they had important differences. Future studies are needed to confirm these findings and address similarities and differences between these disorders across a broader range of variables. PMID:22999105

Arbuscular mycorrhizas enhance nutrient uptake in different wheat genotypes at high salinity levels under field and greenhouse conditions.

PubMed

Mardukhi, Baran; Rejali, Farhad; Daei, Gudarz; Ardakani, Mohammad Reza; Malakouti, Mohammad Javad; Miransari, Mohammad

2011-07-01

Since most experiments regarding the symbiosis between arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and their host plants under salinity stress have been performed only under greenhouse conditions, this research work was also conducted under field conditions. The effects of three AM species including Glomus mosseae, G. etunicatum and G. intraradices on the nutrient uptake of different wheat cultivars (including Roshan, Kavir and Tabasi) under field and greenhouse (including Chamran and Line 9) conditions were determined. At field harvest, the concentrations of N, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, and Mn, and at greenhouse harvest, plant growth, root colonization and concentrations of different nutrients including N, K, P, Ca, Mg, Mn, Cu, Fe, Zn, Na and Cl were determined. The effects of wheat cultivars on the concentrations of N, Ca, and Mn, and of all nutrients were significant at field and greenhouse conditions, respectively. In both experiments, AM fungi significantly enhanced the concentrations of all nutrients including N, K, P, Ca, Mg, Mn, Cu, Fe, Zn, Na and Cl. The synergistic and enhancing effects of co-inoculation of AM species on plant growth and the inhibiting effect of AM species on Na(+) rather than on Cl(-) uptake under salinity are also among the important findings of this research work. Copyright © 2011 Académie des sciences. Published by Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.

Educational games in geriatric medicine education: a systematic review

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Objective To systematically review the medical literature to assess the effect of geriatric educational games on the satisfaction, knowledge, beliefs, attitudes and behaviors of health care professionals. Methods We conducted a systematic review following the Cochrane Collaboration methodology including an electronic search of 10 electronic databases. We included randomized controlled trials (RCT) and controlled clinical trials (CCT) and excluded single arm studies. Population of interests included members (practitioners or students) of the health care professions. Outcomes of interests were participants' satisfaction, knowledge, beliefs, attitude, and behaviors. Results We included 8 studies evaluating 5 geriatric role playing games, all conducted in United States. All studies suffered from one or more methodological limitations but the overall quality of evidence was acceptable. None of the studies assessed the effects of the games on beliefs or behaviors. None of the 8 studies reported a statistically significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of change in attitude. One study assessed the impact on knowledge and found non-statistically significant difference between the 2 groups. Two studies found levels of satisfaction among participants to be high. We did not conduct a planned meta-analysis because the included studies either reported no statistical data or reported different summary statistics. Conclusion The available evidence does not support the use of role playing interventions in geriatric medical education with the aim of improving the attitudes towards the elderly. PMID:20416055

Towards a Conceptualization of Dialogic Leadership

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Padrós, Maria; Flecha, Ramón

2014-01-01

In 1968, Freire included in his work the need of dialogue for those acting as leaders. Since then, leadership has been widely addressed by authors around the world and different conceptual frameworks have been developed. Different social and educational movements have granted dialogue a significant role for leading change. Educational research has…

Adolescents: Differences in Friendship Patterns Related to Gender

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mjaavatn, Per Egil; Frostad, Per; Pijl, Sip Jan

2016-01-01

Based on a survey of 123 Norwegian students aged 14-15 (grade 10) this article will discuss possible gender differences in peer relations, social position and friendship criteria. The students filled in a questionnaire that included sociometry and questions on friendship criteria, self-esteem and social support. We found significant gender…

Student Preferences for Online Lecture Formats: Does Prior Experience Matter?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Drouin, Michelle; Hile, Rachel E.; Vartanian, Lesa R.; Webb, Janae

2013-01-01

We examined undergraduate students' quality ratings of and preferences for different types of online lecture formats. Students preferred richer online lecture formats that included both audio and visual components; however, there were no significant differences between students' ratings of PowerPoint lectures with "audio" of the…

Strategies for Better Learning of English Grammar: Chinese vs. Thais

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Supakorn, Patnarin; Feng, Min; Limmun, Wanida

2018-01-01

The success of language learning significantly depends on multiple sets of complex factors; among these are language-learning strategies of which learners in different countries may show different preferences. Needed areas of language learning strategy research include, among others, the strategy of grammar learning and the context-based approach…

Results of a 2011 national questionnaire for investigation of mean glandular dose from mammography in Japan.

PubMed

Asada, Y; Suzuki, S; Minami, K; Shirakawa, S

2014-03-01

Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) for mammography have yet to be created in Japan. A national questionnaire investigation into radiographic conditions in Japan was carried out for the purpose of creating DRLs. Items investigated included the following: tube voltage; tube current; current-time product; source-image distance; craniocaudal view; automatic exposure control (AEC) settings; name of mammography unit; image receptor system (computed radiography (CR), flat panel detector (FPD), or film/screen (F/S)); and supported or unsupported monitor diagnosis (including monitor resolution). Estimation of the mean glandular dose (MGD) for mammography was performed and compared with previous investigations. The MGD was 1.58(0.48) mGy, which did not significantly differ from a 2007 investigation. In relation to image receptors, although no difference in average MGD values was observed between CR and FPD systems, F/S systems had a significantly decreased value compared to both CR and FPDs. Concerning digital systems (FPDs), the MGD value of the direct conversion system was significantly higher than the indirect conversion system. No significant difference in MGD value was evident concerning type of monitor diagnosis for either the CR or the FPD digital systems; however, hard copies were used more often in CR. No significant difference in the MGD value was found in relation to monitor resolution. This report suggests ways to lower the doses patients undergoing mammography receive in Japan, and serves as reference data for 4.2 cm compressed breast tissue of 50% composition DRLs. Furthermore, our findings suggest that further optimisation of FPD settings can promote a reduction in the MGD value.

Multimodal Secondary Prevention Behavioral Interventions for TIA and Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PubMed Central

Lawrence, Maggie; Pringle, Jan; Kerr, Susan; Booth, Joanne; Govan, Lindsay; Roberts, Nicola J.

2015-01-01

Background Guidelines recommend implementation of multimodal interventions to help prevent recurrent TIA/stroke. We undertook a systematic review to assess the effectiveness of behavioral secondary prevention interventions. Strategy Searches were conducted in 14 databases, including MEDLINE (1980-January 2014). We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) testing multimodal interventions against usual care/modified usual care. All review processes were conducted in accordance with Cochrane guidelines. Results Twenty-three papers reporting 20 RCTs (6,373 participants) of a range of multimodal behavioral interventions were included. Methodological quality was generally low. Meta-analyses were possible for physiological, lifestyle, psychosocial and mortality/recurrence outcomes. Note: all reported confidence intervals are 95%. Systolic blood pressure was reduced by 4.21 mmHg (mean) (−6.24 to −2.18, P = 0.01 I2 = 58%, 1,407 participants); diastolic blood pressure by 2.03 mmHg (mean) (−3.19 to −0.87, P = 0.004, I2 = 52%, 1,407 participants). No significant changes were found for HDL, LDL, total cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, high sensitivity-CR, BMI, weight or waist:hip ratio, although there was a significant reduction in waist circumference (−6.69 cm, −11.44 to −1.93, P = 0.006, I2 = 0%, 96 participants). There was no significant difference in smoking continuance, or improved fruit and vegetable consumption. There was a significant difference in compliance with antithrombotic medication (OR 1.45, 1.21 to 1.75, P<0.0001, I2 = 0%, 2,792 participants) and with statins (OR 2.53, 2.15 to 2.97, P< 0.00001, I2 = 0%, 2,636 participants); however, there was no significant difference in compliance with antihypertensives. There was a significant reduction in anxiety (−1.20, −1.77 to −0.63, P<0.0001, I2 = 85%, 143 participants). Although there was no significant difference in odds of death or recurrent TIA/stroke, there was a significant reduction in the odds of cardiac events (OR 0.38, 0.16 to 0.88, P = 0.02, I2 = 0%, 4,053 participants). Conclusions There are benefits to be derived from multimodal secondary prevention interventions. However, the findings are complex and should be interpreted with caution. Further, high quality trials providing comprehensive detail of interventions and outcomes, are required. Review Registration PROSPERO CRD42012002538. PMID:25793643

Oral prophylaxis and its effects on halitosis-associated and inflammatory parameters in patients with chronic periodontitis.

PubMed

Guentsch, A; Pfister, W; Cachovan, G; Raschke, G; Kuepper, H; Schaefer, O; Eick, S

2014-08-01

A controlled clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of oral prophylaxis on halitosis-associated, immunological and microbiological parameters. Thirty subjects were included in this controlled clinical trial (patients with generalized chronic periodontitis and controls without clinical attachment loss; each n = 15). Before oral prophylaxis and 14 days after (including tongue cleaning) volatile sulphur compounds (VSC), organoleptic scores and a tongue coating index were evaluated. The levels of IL-1β, IL-8, IL-10 and MMP-8 were measured in GCF, and also major periodontal pathogens were detected. Data were statistically analysed using anova and paired t-test. Supragingival plaque and calculus removal with combined tongue cleaning was able to reduce significantly (P < 0.05) the VSC values in both groups (no significant differences between both groups). Two weeks after periodontal debridement, the VSC values were observed in the periodontitis group, but not in the control group, similar to the baseline values. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Only a repeated prophylaxis session in the periodontitis group was able to reduce VSC values significantly in comparison with baseline (P < 0.05). Organoleptic scores (10 and 30 cm) were significantly different (P < 0.05) between both groups before and after the treatment. Periodontal pathogens and host-derived markers were not significantly affected by a single prophylaxis session. Oral prophylaxis may result in a significant decrease in VSC values. However, in periodontal diseases, a more complex treatment seems to be necessary. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The difference in centre position in the ACL femoral footprint inclusive and exclusive of the fan-like extension fibres.

PubMed

Iriuchishima, Takanori; Ryu, Keinosuke; Aizawa, Shin; Fu, Freddie H

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the centre position of each anterior cruciate ligament bundle in its femoral footprint in measurements including and excluding the fan-like extension fibres. Fourteen non-paired human cadaver knees were used. All soft tissues around the knee were resected except the ligaments. The ACL was divided into antero-medial (AM) and postero-lateral (PL) bundles according to the difference in tension patterns. The ACL was carefully dissected, and two outlines were made of the periphery of each bundle insertion site: those which included and those which excluded the fan-like extension fibres. An accurate lateral view of the femoral condyle was photographed with a digital camera, and the images were downloaded to a personal computer. The centre position of each bundle, including and excluding the fan-like extension fibres, was measured with ImageJ software (National Institution of Health). Evaluation of the centre position was performed using the modified quadrant method. The centre of the femoral AM bundle including the fan-like extension was located at 28.8% in a shallow-deep direction and 37.2% in a high-low direction. When the AM bundle was evaluated without the fan-like extension, the centre was significantly different at 34.6% in a shallow-deep direction (p = 0.000) and 36% in a high-low direction. The centre of the PL bundle including the fan-like extension was found at 37.1% in a shallow-deep direction and 73.4% in a high-low direction. When the PL bundle was evaluated without the fan-like extension, the centre was significantly different at 42.7% in a shallow-deep direction (p = 0.000) and 69.3% in a high-low direction (p = 0.000). The centre position of the AM and PL bundles in the femoral ACL footprint was significantly different depending on the inclusion or exclusion of the fan-like extension fibres. For the clinical relevance, to reproduce the direct femoral insertion in the anatomical ACL reconstruction, tunnels should be placed relatively shallow and high in the femoral ACL footprint.

Youth Attitudes and Military Service: Findings from Two Decades of Monitoring the Future National Samples of American Youth

DTIC Science & Technology

2000-06-01

data have focused on drug use and related factors, the study content is much broader (as the title implies) and includes vocational and educational ...over time. The present reporting, in contrast, focuses primarily on trend data and certain subgroup differences, using simple statistics (percentages...report are included on all forms of the 8th and 10th grade surveys. Tests for the statistical significance of mean differences between data collected in

Human Genetic Variation and Yellow Fever Mortality during 19th Century U.S. Epidemics

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

ABSTRACT We calculated the incidence, mortality, and case fatality rates for Caucasians and non-Caucasians during 19th century yellow fever (YF) epidemics in the United States and determined statistical significance for differences in the rates in different populations. We evaluated nongenetic host factors, including socioeconomic, environmental, cultural, demographic, and acquired immunity status that could have influenced these differences. While differences in incidence rates were not significant between Caucasians and non-Caucasians, differences in mortality and case fatality rates were statistically significant for all epidemics tested (P < 0.01). Caucasians diagnosed with YF were 6.8 times more likely to succumb than non-Caucasians with the disease. No other major causes of death during the 19th century demonstrated a similar mortality skew toward Caucasians. Nongenetic host factors were examined and could not explain these large differences. We propose that the remarkably lower case mortality rates for individuals of non-Caucasian ancestry is the result of human genetic variation in loci encoding innate immune mediators. PMID:24895309

Update on the recommended viewing protocol for FAXIL threshold contrast detail detectability test objects used in television fluoroscopy.

PubMed

Launders, J H; McArdle, S; Workman, A; Cowen, A R

1995-01-01

The significance of varying the viewing conditions that may affect the perceived threshold contrast of X-ray television fluoroscopy systems has been investigated. Factors investigated include the ambient room lighting and the viewing distance. The purpose of this study is to find the optimum viewing protocol with which to measure the threshold detection index. This is a particular problem when trying to compare the image quality of television fluoroscopy systems in different input field sizes. The results show that the viewing distance makes a significant difference to the perceived threshold contrast, whereas the ambient light conditions make no significant difference. Experienced observers were found to be capable of finding the optimum viewing distance for detecting details of each size, in effect using a flexible viewing distance. This allows the results from different field sizes to be normalized to account for both the magnification and the entrance air kerma rate differences, which in turn allow for a direct comparison of performance in different field sizes.

Gender Differences in Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices towards Cardiovascular Disease and its Treatment among Asian Patients.

PubMed

Shen, Tong; Teo, Tse Yean; Yap, Jonathan Jl; Yeo, Khung Keong

2017-01-01

Introduction : Knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) impact on cardiac disease outcomes, with noted cultural and gender differences. In this Asian cohort, we aimed to analyse the KAP of patients towards cardiac diseases and pertinent factors that influence such behaviour, focusing on gender differences. Materials and Methods : A cross-sectional survey was performed among consecutive outpatients from a cardiac clinic over 2 months in 2014. Results : Of 1406 patients approached, 1000 (71.1%) responded (mean age 57.0 ± 12.7 years, 713 [71.3%] males). There was significant correlation between knowledge and attitude scores (r = 0.224, P <0.001), and knowledge and practice scores (r = 0.114, P <0.001). There was no correlation between attitude and practice scores. Multivariate predictors of higher knowledge scores included female sex, higher education, higher attitude and practice scores and prior coronary artery disease. Multivariate predictors of higher attitude scores included higher education, higher knowledge scores and non-Indian ethnicity. Multivariate predictors of higher practice scores included male sex, Indian ethnicity, older age, higher knowledge score and hypertension. Males had lower knowledge scores (85.8 ± 8.0% vs 88.0 ± 8.2%, P <0.001), lower attitude scores (91.4 ± 9.4% vs 93.2 ± 8.3%, P = 0.005) and higher practice scores (58.4 ± 18.7% vs 55.1 ± 19.3%, P = 0.013) than females. Conclusion : In our Asian cohort, knowledge of cardiovascular health plays a significant role in influencing attitudes and practices. There exists significant gender differences in KAP. Adopting gender-specific strategies for future public health campaigns could address the above gender differences.

Gender and ethnic differences in arterial compliance in patients with intermittent claudication.

PubMed

Gardner, Andrew W; Montgomery, Polly S; Blevins, Steve M; Parker, Donald E

2010-03-01

To assess the gender and ethnic differences in arterial compliance in patients with intermittent claudication. A total of 114 patients participated, including 38 Caucasian men, 32 Caucasian women, 16 African American men, and 28 African American women. Patients were assessed on large artery elasticity index (LAEI), small artery elasticity index (SAEI), age, weight, body mass index, ankle-brachial index (ABI), smoking status, and metabolic syndrome components. Group differences were found for LAEI (P = .042), SAEI (P = .019), body mass index (P = .020), prevalence of elevated fasting glucose (P = .001), and prevalence of abdominal obesity (P = .025). Significant covariates for LAEI included age (P = .0002) and elevated triglycerides (P = .0719). LAEI (units = 10 mL x mm Hg) adjusted for age and triglycerides was 39% lower (P = .0005) in African Americans (11.4 +/- .90; mean +/- SE) than in Caucasians (15.8 +/- 0.72), whereas no significant difference (P = .7904) existed between men (13.8 +/- 0.81) and women (13.5 +/- 0.79). Significant covariates for SAEI included age (P = .0001), abdominal obesity (P = .0030), and elevated blood pressure (P = .0067). SAEI (units = 100 mL x mm Hg) adjusted for age, abdominal obesity, and elevated blood pressure was 32% lower (P = .0007) in African-Americans (2.8 +/- 0.3) than in Caucasians 4.1 +/- 0.2), and was 18% lower (P = .0442) in women (3.1 +/- 0.2) than in men (3.8 +/- 0.2). African American patients with intermittent claudication have more impaired macrovascular and microvascular function than Caucasian patients, and women have more impaired microvascular function than men. These ethnic and gender differences in arterial compliance are evident even though ABI was similar among groups, suggesting that arterial compliance provides unique information to quantify vascular impairment in patients with intermittent claudication.

[Algorithm for the differential diagnosis of precancerous and regenerative changes in the cervix uteri].

PubMed

Sazonova, V Iu; Fedorova, V E; Danilova, N V

2013-01-01

Pretumoral changes in the epithelium of the cervix uteri include cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). CIN III should be differentiated with regenerative changes during epidermization of endocervicoses. Epidermization is proliferation of undifferentiated reserve cells that differentiate towards the squamous epithelium, by superseding the ectopic endocervical glandular epithelium. This process was called immature squamous metaplasia (ISM). The objective of the investigation was to define the significance of different morphological signs in the differential diagnosis of CIN III and ISM. One hundred and twelve cervical, CIN III, and immature squamous metaplasia biopsies were selected for examination. The selected cervical specimens were divided into 2 groups according to the presence or absence of p16 and CK17 expression. The p16+, CK17- cases were taken as true CIN III and the pl 6-, CK17+ as a regenerative process. The basis for this investigation is the signs included by O.K. Khmelnitsky into an algorithm for the differential diagnosis of epidermizing pseudoerosion and intraepithelial cancer of the cervix uteri. The algorithm was reconsidered to objectify. The investigation established great differences in the number of significant mitoses in the study groups. A clear trend was found for differences in the number of acanthotic strands. A new differential diagnostic algorithm for CIN III and ISM, which included the number of significant mitoses and acanthotic strands and p16 and CK17 expression, was proposed.

Quantitative assessment on coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) image quality: comparisons between genders and different tube voltage settings.

PubMed

Chian, Teo Chee; Nassir, Norziana Mat; Ibrahim, Mohd Izuan; Yusof, Ahmad Khairuddin Md; Sabarudin, Akmal

2017-02-01

This study was carried out to quantify and compare the quantitative image quality of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) between genders as well as between different tube voltages scan protocols. Fifty-five cases of CCTA were collected retrospectively and all images including reformatted axial images at systolic and diastolic phases as well as images with curved multi planar reformation (cMPR) were obtained. Quantitative image quality including signal intensity, image noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of right coronary artery (RCA), left anterior descending artery (LAD), left circumflex artery (LCx) and left main artery (LM) were quantified using Analyze 12.0 software. Six hundred and fifty-seven coronary arteries were evaluated. There were no significant differences in any quantitative image quality parameters between genders. 100 kilovoltage peak (kVp) scanning protocol produced images with significantly higher signal intensity compared to 120 kVp scanning protocol (P<0.001) in all coronary arteries in all types of images. Higher SNR was also observed in 100 kVp scan protocol in all coronary arteries except in LCx where 120 kVp showed better SNR than 100 kVp. There were no significant differences in image quality of CCTA between genders and different tube voltages. Lower tube voltage (100 kVp) scanning protocol is recommended in clinical practice to reduce the radiation dose to patient.

Efficacy and safety of etanercept in the treatment of sciatica: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Jing, Shangfei; Yang, Chenyuan; Zhang, Xiaofei; Wen, Shuzheng; Li, Yuankui

2017-10-01

Etanercept might be promising to alleviate sciatica caused by lumbar disc herniation and spinal stenosis. However, the results remained controversial. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of etanercept in patients with sciatica. PubMed, EMbase, Web of science, EBSCO, and Cochrane library databases were systematically searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and Controlled clinical trials (CCT) assessing the efficacy of etanercept on sciatica caused by lumbar disc herniation and spinal stenosis were included. Two investigators independently searched articles, extracted data, and assessed the quality of included studies. The primary outcome was leg pain scores. Meta-analysis was performed using random-effect model. Four RCTs and one CCT involving 184 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, compared with placebo, etanercept could significantly reduce leg pain (Std. mean difference=-0.83; 95% CI=-1.59 to -0.06; P=0.03) and back pain (Std. mean difference=-1.89; 95% CI=-3.34 to -0.43; P=0.01). However, when comparing etanercept to steroids there was no significant difference in the relief of leg pain (Std. mean difference=-1.18; 95% CI=-3.21 to 0.84; P=0.25) and back pain (Std. mean difference=-0.29; 95% CI=-1.26 to 0.67; P=0.55). Etanercept showed no increase in Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) compared with placebo (Std. mean difference=-0.83; 95% CI=-2.03 to 0.37; P=0.18) and steroids (Std. mean difference=-0.19; 95% CI=-1.15 to 0.77; P=0.70). Etanercept treatment was associated with a significantly reduced pain in leg and back compared to placebo and may possibly improve leg pain relief compared to steroids, but failed to improve ODI. Etanercept should be recommended for sciatica with caution because of heterogeneity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Impact of Including Higher Actinides in Fast Reactor Transmutation Analyses

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

B. Forget; M. Asgari; R. Ferrer

2007-09-01

Previous fast reactor transmutation studies generally disregarded higher mass minor actinides beyond Cm-246 due to various considerations including deficiencies in nuclear cross-section data. Although omission of these higher mass actinides does not significantly impact the neutronic calculations and fuel cycle performance parameters follow-on neutron dose calculations related to fuel recycling, transportation and handling are significantly impacted. This report shows that including the minor actinides in the equilibrium fast reactor calculations will increase the predicted neutron emission by about 30%. In addition a sensitivity study was initiated by comparing the impact of different cross-section evaluation file for representing these minor actinides.

An analysis of student performance benchmarks in dental hygiene via distance education.

PubMed

Olmsted, Jodi L

2010-01-01

Three graduate programs, 35 undergraduate programs and 12 dental hygiene degree completion programs in the United States use varying forms of Distance Learning (DL). Relying heavily on DL leaves an unanswered question: Is learner performance on standard benchmark assessments impacted when using technology as a delivery system? A 10 year, longitudinal examination looked for student performance differences in a Distance Education (DE) dental hygiene program. The purpose of this research was to determine if there was a difference in performance between learners taught in a traditional classroom as compared to their counterparts taking classes through an alternative delivery system. A longitudinal, ex post facto design was used. Two hundred and sixty-six subject records were examined. Seventy-seven individuals (29%) were lost through attrition over 10 years. One hundred and eighty-nine records were used as the study sample, 117 individuals were located face-to-face and 72 were at a distance. Independent variables included time and location, while the dependent variables included course grades, grade point average (GPA) and the National Board of Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). Three research questions were asked: Were there statistically significant differences in learner performance on the National Board of Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)? Were there statistically significant differences in learner performance when considering GPAs? Did statistically significant differences in performance exist relating to individual course grades? T-tests were used for data analysis in answering the research questions. From a cumulative perspective, no statistically significant differences were apparent for the NBDHE and GPAs or for individual courses. Interactive Television (ITV), the synchronous DL system examined, was considered effective for delivering education to learners if similar performance outcomes were the evaluation criteria.

Differences in vaginal microbiome in African American women versus women of European ancestry

PubMed Central

Fettweis, Jennifer M.; Brooks, J. Paul; Serrano, Myrna G.; Sheth, Nihar U.; Girerd, Philippe H.; Edwards, David J.; Strauss, Jerome F.; Jefferson, Kimberly K.

2014-01-01

Women of European ancestry are more likely to harbour a Lactobacillus-dominated microbiome, whereas African American women are more likely to exhibit a diverse microbial profile. African American women are also twice as likely to be diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis and are twice as likely to experience preterm birth. The objective of this study was to further characterize and contrast the vaginal microbial profiles in African American versus European ancestry women. Through the Vaginal Human Microbiome Project at Virginia Commonwealth University, 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis was used to compare the microbiomes of vaginal samples from 1268 African American women and 416 women of European ancestry. The results confirmed significant differences in the vaginal microbiomes of the two groups and identified several taxa relevant to these differences. Major community types were dominated by Gardnerella vaginalis and the uncultivated bacterial vaginosis-associated bacterium-1 (BVAB1) that were common among African Americans. Moreover, the prevalence of multiple bacterial taxa that are associated with microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity and preterm birth, including Mycoplasma, Gardnerella, Prevotella and Sneathia, differed between the two ethnic groups. We investigated the contributions of intrinsic and extrinsic factors, including pregnancy, body mass index, diet, smoking and alcohol use, number of sexual partners, and household income, to vaginal community composition. Ethnicity, pregnancy and alcohol use correlated significantly with the relative abundance of bacterial vaginosis-associated species. Trends between microbial profiles and smoking and number of sexual partners were observed; however, these associations were not statistically significant. These results support and extend previous findings that there are significant differences in the vaginal microbiome related to ethnicity and demonstrate that these differences are pronounced even in healthy women. PMID:25073854

[Occupational hazards survey of specially supervised enterprises during 2011-2012 in one district of Shenzhen, China].

PubMed

Zhang, Hongsheng; Zhang, Xianxing; Zhang, Chu; Liu, Song; He, Jian-Feng

2014-04-01

To analyze the results of an occupational hazards survey of specially supervised enterprises (156 enterprise-times) during 2011-2012 in one district of Shenzhen, China and find out the changes in occupational hazards in these enterprises, and to put forward countermeasures for the prevention and control of occupational hazards. Occupational hazards monitoring results for specially supervised enterprises (156 enterprise-times) during 2011-2012 were included. Comparison and analysis were performed between different years, different industries, different occupational hazards, and different sizes of enterprises. A total of 1274 monitoring sites from these specially supervised enterprises were included, of which qualification rate was 73.55% (937/1274), and the noise monitoring sites showed the lowest qualification rate. The overall qualification rate in 2012 (70.37%) was significantly lower than that in 2011 (80.94%) (χ(2) = 15.38, P < 0.01). In electronics industry, the qualification rate in 2012 was significantly lower than that in 2011 (χ2 = 11.27, P = 0.001). Comparison of various hazards in different industries indicated that electronic enterprises and furniture enterprises had the lowest qualification rate in noise monitoring, printing enterprises had the lowest qualification rate in organic solvent monitoring, and furniture enterprises had the lowest qualification rate in dust monitoring. Comparison between different sizes of enterprises indicated that the qualification rate of large and medium enterprises in 2012 was significantly lower than that in 2011, while the qualification rate of small enterprises in 2012 was significantly higher than that in 2011 (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). In the prevention and control of occupational hazards in specially supervised enterprises, special attention should be paid to the control of organic solvents in printing enterprises and noise and dust in furniture enterprises.

A comparison of abdominal surgical outcomes between African-American and Caucasian Crohn's patients.

PubMed

Griglione, Nicole; Yarandi, Shadi; Srinivasan, Jahnavi; Ahearn, Thomas; Dhere, Tanvi

2014-08-01

Whether race affects the natural history of Crohn's disease is a matter of debate. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the differences in surgical outcomes between African-American (AA) and Caucasian (C) Crohn's patients undergoing surgery at a tertiary care referral center. With Institutional Review Board approval, the medical records of our institution were queried to identify consecutive AA and C patients who underwent surgery for Crohn's disease from December 1, 2009 to December 15, 2011. A retrospective chart review was performed using electronic medical records. A total of 77 patients were included in this study, including 32 AA (41 %) and 45 C (59 %). No significant differences were seen with respect to age, gender, type of insurance, preoperative exposure to immunosuppressives, body mass index, or smoking history between the two populations (p > 0.05). There was a trend toward lower albumin in AAs (p = 0.09). AA and C patients who underwent their first Crohn's disease (CD)-related surgery had similar lag periods between diagnosis and surgery. No significant differences were seen in location of disease, indication for operation, and need for open laparotomy over laparoscopy. No significant differences were seen in need for a repeat operation within 90 days of the original surgery or major postoperative complications. There was a trend toward higher rate of minor complications in the AA group (p = 0.07). No significant differences were noted in the current study in several preoperative variables and surgical outcomes between AA and C.

A Comparison of Online, Video Synchronous, and Traditional Learning Modes for an Introductory Undergraduate Physics Course

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faulconer, E. K.; Griffith, J.; Wood, B.; Acharyya, S.; Roberts, D.

2018-05-01

While the equivalence between online and traditional classrooms has been well-researched, very little of this includes college-level introductory Physics. Only one study explored Physics at the whole-class level rather than specific course components such as a single lab or a homework platform. In this work, we compared the failure rate, grade distribution, and withdrawal rates in an introductory undergraduate Physics course across several learning modes including traditional face-to-face instruction, synchronous video instruction, and online classes. Statistically significant differences were found for student failure rates, grade distribution, and withdrawal rates but yielded small effect sizes. Post-hoc pair-wise test was run to determine differences between learning modes. Online students had a significantly lower failure rate than students who took the class via synchronous video classroom. While statistically significant differences were found for grade distributions, the pair-wise comparison yielded no statistically significance differences between learning modes when using the more conservative Bonferroni correction in post-hoc testing. Finally, in this study, student withdrawal rates were lowest for students who took the class in person (in-person classroom and synchronous video classroom) than online. Students that persist in an online introductory Physics class are more likely to achieve an A than in other modes. However, the withdrawal rate is higher from online Physics courses. Further research is warranted to better understand the reasons for higher withdrawal rates in online courses. Finding the root cause to help eliminate differences in student performance across learning modes should remain a high priority for education researchers and the education community as a whole.

Health-Related Quality of Life in Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer: An Update of a Systematic Review on Methodologic Issues in Randomized Controlled Trials

PubMed Central

Claassens, Lily; van Meerbeeck, Jan; Coens, Corneel; Quinten, Chantal; Ghislain, Irina; Sloan, Elizabeth K.; Wang, Xin Shelly; Velikova, Galina; Bottomley, Andrew

2011-01-01

Purpose This study is an update of a systematic review of health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) methodology reporting in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The objective was to evaluate HRQOL methodology reporting over the last decade and its benefit for clinical decision making. Methods A MEDLINE systematic literature review was performed. Eligible RCTs implemented patient-reported HRQOL assessments and regular oncology treatments for newly diagnosed adult patients with NSCLC. Included studies were published in English from August 2002 to July 2010. Two independent reviewers evaluated all included RCTs. Results Fifty-three RCTs were assessed. Of the 53 RCTs, 81% reported that there was no significant difference in overall survival (OS). However, 50% of RCTs that were unable to find OS differences reported a significant difference in HRQOL scores. The quality of HRQOL reporting has improved; both reporting of clinically significant differences and statistical testing of HRQOL have improved. A European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer HRQOL questionnaire was used in 57% of the studies. However, reporting of HRQOL hypotheses and rationales for choosing HRQOL instruments were significantly less than before 2002 (P < .05). Conclusion The number of NSCLC RCTs incorporating HRQOL assessments has considerably increased. HRQOL continues to demonstrate its importance in RCTs, especially in those studies in which no OS difference is found. Despite the improved quality of HRQOL methodology reporting, certain aspects remain underrepresented. Our findings suggest need for an international standardization of HRQOL reporting similar to the CONSORT guidelines for clinical findings. PMID:21464420

[Effects of transtheoretical model intervention on improving self-esteem of obese children].

PubMed

Zhang, Xueyan; Zhou, Leshan; Li, Chenchen

2013-07-01

To explore the effects of transtheoretical model (TTM) intervention on improving self-esteem status of obese children. A quasi-experimental research was conducted using a repeated-measure, pretest-posttest control group design in one randomly-selected boarding school of Changsha, Hunan Province in China. Seventy-three obesity students (54 males, 19 females) among grade three to six were included. All participants received first assessment, including: demographic data, stage of change questionnaire, and the Self-Esteem Scale (SES). According to the baseline data, different intervention measures based on TTM were given to different students to promote them to begin exercise and improve their self-esteem status. Follow-up assessments were collected respectively at 1- and 6- month after intervention. Intervention effects on proportion of obese children and self-esteem status as well as BMI were explored. All analyses were conducted using SPSS 17.0. After intervention, the proportion of obese children in precontemplation and maintenance stages was significantly different (P < 0.001). BMI and SES scores didn't change significantly. SES score was significantly different in five stages among three intervention points (P < 0.001). Obesity children who are in the later stages have higher self-esteem scores than those in former stages. Intervention based on TTM can help obese children move through the stages of change.

Technology-based counseling in the management of weight and lifestyles of obese or overweight children and adolescents: A descriptive systematic literature review.

PubMed

Kaakinen, Pirjo; Kyngäs, Helvi; Kääriäinen, Maria

2018-03-01

The number of overweight and obese children and adolescents has increased worldwide. Obese children and adolescents need counseling interventions, including technology-based methods, to help them manage their weight by changing their lifestyles. To describe technology-based counseling interventions in supporting obese or overweight children and adolescents to change their weight/lifestyle. Descriptive systematic literature review. A literature search was conducted using Cinahl, Medline, PsycINFO, and Medic databases in September 2010 and updated in January 2015. Predefined inclusion criteria were used for the search. After a quality assessment, 28 studies were included in the data extraction. No statistically significant difference in BMI was detected between the intervention and control groups. However, in some studies, it was found that BMI decreases and there were statistically significant differences in fruit and vegetable consumption. In two studies, differences in physical activity were detected between the intervention and control groups, but in eight studies, the difference was not significant. Goal setting and feedback on progress support physical activity and changes in diet. This study identifies available technology interventions for obese or overweight children and adolescents. It seems that using technology-based counseling intervention may encourage obese and overweight children and adolescents to pursue a healthier lifestyle.

Variation in the prevalence of chronic bronchitis among smokers: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Mahesh, P A; Jayaraj, B S; Chaya, S K; Lokesh, K S; McKay, A J; Prabhakar, A K; Pape, U J

2014-07-01

Given the wide variations in prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease observed between populations with similar levels of exposure to tobacco smoke, we aimed to investigate the possibility of variations in prevalence of chronic bronchitis (CB) between two geographically distinct smoking populations in rural Karnataka, India. The Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) questionnaire was administered to all men aged >30 years in a cross-sectional survey. The χ(2) and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare CB prevalence in the two populations. Logistic regression was used to analyse the impact of multiple variables on the occurrence of CB. Two samples of 2322 and 2182 subjects were included in the study. In non-smokers, CB prevalence did not differ between the populations. However, it was significantly different between smoking populations (44.79% vs. 2.13%, P < 0.0001). Logistic regression indicated that, in addition to smoking, region, age, occupational dust exposure and type of house were associated with higher likelihood of CB. An interaction between smoking and area of residence was found (P < 0.001) and appeared to explain the effect of region (without interaction). A significant difference in CB prevalence was observed between male populations from two areas of Karnataka state, including when stratified by smoking status. No significant difference was observed between non-smokers.

A multi-dimensional approach to insight and its evolution in first-episode psychosis: a 1-year outcome naturalistic study.

PubMed

Capdevielle, Delphine; Norton, Joanna; Jaussent, Isabelle; Prud'homme, Cindy; Raffard, Stéphane; Gelly, Françoise; Boulenger, Jean-Philippe; Ritchie, Karen

2013-12-30

The aim of the study was to describe the evolution of the different dimensions of insight at 1 year and its associations with psychopathology and symptomatic remission. Participants included 55 patients hospitalized for a first psychosis episode and followed up at 6 and 12 months after discharge. Measures included the Scale to Assess Unawareness of Mental Disorder and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Six dimensions of insight were evaluated, for current episode at hospital discharge and at 6 and 12 month FUs and past episode (at 6 and 12 month follow-ups). Our results show that concerning the current episode, only awareness of the social consequences and of the positive symptoms significantly improved during follow-up. Insight into the past episode improved for awareness of having a mental disorder, the social consequences and the positive symptoms of mental illness. Cross-sectional associations between insight and PANSS show weak to moderate, albeit significant, associations. Most of the dimensions of insight are positively and significantly associated with remission. Our findings suggest that the main underlying dimensions of insight evolve differently over time, which could suggest different inherent processes. This could be useful for developing psychotherapeutic programmes acting upon the different aspects of insight. © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Primary anastomosis or ostomy in necrotizing enterocolitis?

PubMed

Haricharan, Ramanathapura N; Gallimore, Jade Palazzola; Nasr, Ahmed

2017-11-01

In neonates requiring operation for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), the complications due to enterostomy (ES) and the need for another operation to restore continuity have prompted several surgeons to employ primary anastomosis (PA) after resection as the operative strategy of choice. Our objective was to compare primary anastomosis to stoma formation in this population using systematic review and meta-analysis. Publications describing both interventions were identified by searching multiple databases. Appropriate studies that reported outcomes after PA and ES for NEC were included for analysis that was performed using the MedCalc3000 software. Results are reported as odds ratios (OR, 95% CI). No randomized trials were identified. Twelve studies were included for the final analysis. Neonates who underwent PA were associated with significantly less risk of mortality when compared to those who underwent ES (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.17-0.68, p 0.002), possibly due to differences in severity of NEC. Although the types of complications in these groups were different, there was no significant difference in risk of complication (OR 0.86, 0.55-1.33, p 0.50). In neonates undergoing an operation for severe NEC, there is no significant difference in the risk of complications between primary anastomosis and enterostomy. A definitive suggestion cannot be made regarding the choice of one operative strategy over another.

Military Versus Civilian Murder-Suicide.

PubMed

Patton, Christina L; McNally, Matthew R; Fremouw, William J

2015-07-03

Previous studies have implicated significant differences between military members and civilians with regard to violent behavior, including suicide, domestic violence, and harm to others, but none have examined military murder-suicide. This study sought to determine whether there were meaningful differences between military and civilian murder-suicide perpetrators. Using data from the Center for Disease Control's (CDC) National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS), military (n = 259) and civilian (n = 259) murder-suicide perpetrators were compared on a number of demographic, psychological, and contextual factors using chi-square analyses. Logistic regression was used to determine which variables predicted membership to the military or civilian perpetrator groups. Military murder-suicide perpetrators were more likely to be older, have physical health problems, be currently or formerly married, less likely to abuse substances, and to exhibit significantly different motives than civilian perpetrators. Logistic regression revealed that membership to the military, rather than the civilian, perpetrator group was predicted by age, physical health problems, and declining heath motive-reflecting the significance of a more than 15-year difference in mean age between the two groups. Findings point to the need to tailor suicide risk assessments to include questions specific to murder-suicide, to assess attitudes toward murder-suicide, and to the importance of assessing suicide and violence risk in older adult military populations. © The Author(s) 2015.

Psoriasis and wound healing outcomes: A retrospective cohort study examining wound complications and antibiotic use.

PubMed

Young, Paulina M; Parsi, Kory K; Schupp, Clayton W; Armstrong, April W

2017-11-15

Little is known about wound healing in psoriasis. We performed a cohort study examining differences in wound healing complications between patients with and without psoriasis. Psoriasis patients with traumatic wounds were matched 1:3 to non-psoriasis patients with traumatic wounds based on age, gender, and body mass index (BMI). We examined theincidence of wound complications including infection, necrosis, and hematoma as well as incident antibiotic use within three months following diagnosis of a traumatic wound. The study included 164 patients with traumatic wounds, comprised of 41 patients with psoriasis matched to 123 patients without psoriasis. No statistically significant differences were detected in the incidence of overall wound complications between wound patients with psoriasis and wound patients without psoriasis (14.6% versus. 13.0%, HR 1.18, CI 0.39-3.56). After adjustment for diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and smoking, no statistically significant differences were detected in the incidence of overall wound complications between patients with and without psoriasis (HR 1.11, CI 0.34-3.58). Specifically, the adjusted rates of antibiotic use were not significantly different between those with and without psoriasis (HR 0.65, CI 0.29-1.46). The incidence of wound complications following traumatic wounds of the skin was found to be similar between patients with and without psoriasis.

Post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage--some facts will never change.

PubMed

Windfuhr, Jochen P; Verspohl, Berit C; Chen, Yue-Shih; Dahm, Julia D; Werner, Jochen A

2015-05-01

Bleeding remains the most significant complication following tonsillectomy (TE), sometimes requiring revision surgery under general anesthesia. This study was undertaken to verify whether or not bleeding rates changed after bipolar coagulation was replaced by suture ligation to achieve hemostasis at a single institution. The charts of all patients who had undergone tonsillectomy between April 1, 2007, and April 30, 2013, at our institution were reviewed. The tonsils were bluntly dissected with scissors and a rasp. While hemostasis was achieved with bipolar coagulation during the first 36 months (group A), this method was replaced after a transition period of 1 month by intraoperative suture ligation (group B) during the last 36 months. Group A encompassed 2,137 patients including 963 children scheduled for adenotonsillectomy (ATE), and group B consisted of 1,521 patients and included 435 ATE cases. Bleeding from the tonsillar wounds occurred in 111/2,137 group A (5.2 %) and 68/1,521 group B patients (4.5 %). The difference was not found to be significant (p = 0.317). The incidence of primary bleeding (PB) and secondary bleeding (SB) was significantly (p = 0,000) associated with the method to achieve hemostasis: PB prevailed in group B and SB prevailed in group A. The overall incidence of post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage (PTH) varied at different ages, but the difference was not significant in group A (p = 0.401) and group B (p = 0.661). Repeated episodes of PTH occurred in 11/111 group A (9.9 %) and 8/68 group B (11.7 %) patients. The statistical difference was not found to be significant (p = 0.725). However, there were significantly more male patients with bleeding complications in both groups. Despite the strongest efforts to avoid it, the potential risk of PTH remains a fact to be accepted by surgeons and patients. An increased surgical precision achieved by introduction of a surgical microscope as well as replacing bipolar cautery by suture ligation to achieve hemostasis could only reduce the overall rate of PTH. Another fact remains unchanged: PB occurs predominantly when electrosurgical means are avoided and SB prevails, whenever surgeons use them. We will continue our research on refined methods of cold steel microsurgical TE including suture techniques.

Serum trace element differences between Schizophrenia patients and controls in the Han Chinese population.

PubMed

Cai, Lei; Chen, Tianlu; Yang, Jinglei; Zhou, Kejun; Yan, Xiaomei; Chen, Wenzhong; Sun, Liya; Li, Linlin; Qin, Shengying; Wang, Peng; Yang, Ping; Cui, Donghong; Burmeister, Margit; He, Lin; Jia, Wei; Wan, Chunling

2015-10-12

Little is known about the trace element profile differences between Schizophrenia patients and healthy controls; previous studies about the association of certain elements with Schizophrenia have obtained conflicting results. To identify these differences in the Han Chinese population, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry was used to quantify the levels of 35 elements in the sera of 111 Schizophrenia patients and 110 healthy participants, which consisted of a training (61/61 for cases/controls included) and a test group including remaining participants. An orthogonal projection to latent structures model was constructed from the training group (R(2)Y = 0.465, Q(2)cum = 0.343) had a sensitivity of 76.0% and a specificity of 71.4% in the test group. Single element analysis indicated that the concentrations of cesium, zinc, and selenium were significantly reduced in patients with Schizophrenia in both the training and test groups. The meta-analysis including 522 cases and 360 controls supported that Zinc was significantly associated with Schizophrenia (standardized mean difference [SMD], -0.81; 95% confidence intervals [CI], -1.46 to -0.16, P = 0.01) in the random-effect model. Information theory analysis indicated that Zinc could play roles independently in Schizophrenia. These results suggest clear element profile differences between patients with Schizophrenia and healthy controls, and reduced Zn level is confirmed in the Schizophrenia patients.

Effects of different rapid maxillary expansion appliances on facial soft tissues using three-dimensional imaging.

PubMed

Altındiş, Sedat; Toy, Ebubekir; Başçiftçi, Faruk Ayhan

2016-07-01

To determine three-dimensional (3D) effects of three different rapid maxillary expansion (RME) appliances on facial soft tissues. Forty-two children (18 boys, 24 girls) who required RME treatment were included in this study. Patients were randomly divided into three equal groups: banded RME, acrylic splint RME, and modified acrylic splint RME. For each patient, 3D images were obtained before treatment (T1) and at the end of the 3-month retention (T2) with the 3dMD system. When three RME appliances were compared in terms of the effects on the facial soft tissues, there were no significant differences among them. The mouth and nasal width showed a significant increase in all groups. Although the effect of the acrylic splint RME appliances on total face height was less than that of the banded RME, there was no significant difference between the appliances. The effect of the modified acrylic splint appliance on the upper lip was significant according to the volumetric measurements (P < .01). There were no significant differences among three RME appliances on the facial soft tissues. The modified acrylic splint RME produced a more protrusive effect on the upper lip.

Relationships between Lifestyle, Living Environments, and Incidence of Hypertension in Japan (in Men): Based on Participant’s Data from the Nationwide Medical Check-Up

PubMed Central

Oka, Mayumi; Yamamoto, Mio; Mure, Kanae; Takeshita, Tatsuya; Arita, Mikio

2016-01-01

This study aims to investigate factors that contribute to the differences in incidence of hypertension between different regions in Japan, by accounting for not only individual lifestyles, but also their living environments. The target participants of this survey were individuals who received medical treatment for hypertension, as well as hypertension patients who have not received any treatment. The objective variable for analysis was the incidence of hypertension as data aggregated per prefecture. We used data (in men) including obesity, salt intake, vegetable intake, habitual alcohol consumption, habitual smoking, and number of steps walked per day. The variables within living environment included number of rail stations, standard/light vehicle usage, and slope of habitable land. In addition, we analyzed data for the variables related to medical environment including, participation rate in medical check-ups and number of hospitals. We performed multiple stepwise regression analyses to elucidate the correlation of these variables by using hypertension incidence as the objective variable. Hypertension incidence showed a significant negative correlation with walking and medical check-ups, and a significant positive correlation with light-vehicle usage and slope. Between the number of steps and variables related to the living environment, number of rail stations showed a significant positive correlation, while, standard- and light-vehicle usage showed significant negative correlation. Moreover, with stepwise multiple regression analysis, walking showed the strongest effect. The differences in daily walking based on living environment were associated with the disparities in the hypertension incidence in Japan. PMID:27788198

Impact of body mass index on perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy in Japanese patients with clinically localized renal cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Miyake, Hideaki; Muramaki, Mototsugu; Tanaka, Kazushi; Takenaka, Atsushi; Fujisawa, Masato

2010-06-01

The aim of this study was to review the association between body mass index (BMI) and perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) in Japanese patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC). This study included 108 consecutive Japanese patients undergoing LRN for RCC between April 2001 and March 2009. These patients were divided into the following two groups according to BMI: the non-obese group (n= 58, BMI 25 kg/m(2) or less) and the obese group (n= 50, BMI greater than 25 kg/m(2)). Perioperative outcomes between these two groups were retrospectively compared. There were no significant differences in clinicopathological parameters other than BMI between the non-obese and obese groups. There were no significant differences in operative time, estimated blood loss during LRN, and the incidences of open conversion and postoperative complications between these two groups. In addition, there were no significant differences in parameters related to postoperative recovery, including time to walk, time to oral intake and time until permission for discharge, between these two groups. However, significant trends toward a prolonged operative time (P= 0.0050) and increased blood loss (P= 0.012) during LRN in relation to BMI were documented by linear regression analyses. Although the degree of obesity in patients included in this study was comparatively slight, these findings suggest that LRN can be safely performed for patients with RCC irrespective of BMI. However, the difficulty of LRN may increase with BMI considering the trends toward longer operative time as well as greater blood loss.

Plasma metabolomic study in Chinese patients with wet age-related macular degeneration.

PubMed

Luo, Dan; Deng, Tingting; Yuan, Wei; Deng, Hui; Jin, Ming

2017-09-06

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading disease associated with blindness. It has a high incidence and complex pathogenesis. We aimed to study the metabolomic characteristics in Chinese patients with wet AMD by analyzing the morning plasma of 20 healthy controls and 20 wet AMD patients for metabolic differences. We used ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography and quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry for this analysis. The relationship of these differences with AMD pathophysiology was also assessed. Remaining data were normalized using Pareto scaling, and then valid data were handled using multivariate data analysis with MetaboAnalysis software, including unsupervised principal component analysis and supervised partial least squares-discriminate analysis. The purpose of the present work was to identify significant metabolites for the analyses. Hierarchical clustering was conducted to identify metabolites that differed between the two groups. Significant metabolites were then identified using the established database, and features were mapped on the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. A total of 5443 ion peaks were detected, all of them attributable to the same 10 metabolites. These included some amino acids, isomaltose, hydrocortisone, and biliverdin. The heights of these peaks differed significantly between the two groups. The biosynthesis of amino acids pathways also differed profoundly between patients with wet AMD and controls. These findings suggested that metabolic profiles and and pathways differed between wet AMD and controls and may provide promising new targets for AMD-directed therapeutics and diagnostics.

Effects of electrical stimulus composition on cardiac electrophysiology in a rodent model of electroconvulsive therapy.

PubMed

Singh, Nagendra Madan; Sathyaprabha, T N; Thirthalli, Jagadisha; Andrade, Chittaranjan

2018-01-01

No electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) study on humans or in animal models has so far examined whether differently composed electrical stimuli exert different cardiac electrophysiological effects at constant electrical dose. The subject is important because cardiac electrophysiological changes may provide indirect information about ECT seizure quality as modulated by stimulus composition. Adult female Wistar rats ( n = 20/group) received fixed, moderately suprathreshold (18 mC) electrical stimuli. This stimulus in each of eight groups was formed by varying pulse amplitude, pulse width, pulse frequency, and stimulus duration. The electrocardiogram was recorded, and time and frequency domain variables were examined in 30 s epochs in preictal (30 s before electroconvulsive shock [ECS]), early postictal (starting 15 s after stimulation), and late postictal (5 h after ECS) periods. Alpha for statistical significance was set at P < 0.01 to adjust for multiple hypothesis testing. Cardiac electrophysiological indices in the eight groups did not differ significantly at baseline. At both early and late postictal time points, almost no analysis yielded statistically significant differences between groups for four time domain variables, including heart rate and standard deviation of R-R intervals, and for six frequency domain variables, including low-frequency power, high-frequency power, and total power. Cardiac electrophysiological measures may not be helpful to identify differences in seizure quality that are driven by differences in the composition of electrical stimuli at constant, moderately suprathreshold electrical dose. The generalization of this conclusion to threshold electrical doses and to human contexts requires a study.

Public perception of the terms "cosmetic," "plastic," and "reconstructive" surgery.

PubMed

Hamilton, Grant S; Carrithers, Jeffrey S; Karnell, Lucy H

2004-01-01

To investigate potential differences in perception of the terms "cosmetic," "plastic," and "reconstructive" as descriptors for surgery. An anonymous questionnaire was offered to subjects over 18 years of age throughout the Unites States via the Internet and in person. The multiple-choice survey measured variables including permanence, risk, expense, recovery, reversibility, pain, technical difficulty, and surgeon training. The questionnaire also included several open-ended questions to capture qualitative perceptions. Semantic differential data were analyzed to measure statistical significance. For most variables--permanence, risk, recovery, reversibility, pain, and surgeon training--the 216 subjects had significantly lower mean responses for cosmetic surgery than those for plastic or reconstructive surgery (P < .002). Overall, the results of this study support the authors' hypothesis that there is a significant difference in perception of cosmetic surgery and plastic or reconstructive surgery. Cosmetic surgery is perceived to be more temporary and less technically difficult than plastic or reconstructive surgery. In addition, cosmetic surgery is believed to be associated with less risk, shorter recovery time, and less pain. Subjects also thought that cosmetic surgeons required significantly less training than plastic or reconstructive surgeons.

Is Tubeless Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy a Feasible Technique for the Treatment of Staghorn Calculi?

PubMed Central

Lee, Sang Cheol; Kim, Chang Hee; Kim, Kwang Taek; Kim, Tae Beom; Kim, Khae Hawn; Jung, Han; Yoon, Sang Jin

2013-01-01

Purpose Tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) remains a challenging technique for the surgical treatment of staghorn renal calculi. Our study was designed to compare surgical outcomes between conventional and tubeless PNL. Materials and Methods We retrospectively enrolled consecutive patients who underwent conventional or tubeless PNL under general anesthesia performed by a single surgeon (H.J.) for the treatment of staghorn calculi between 2003 and 2012. All patients were divided into two groups: group 1 included patients who underwent conventional PNL and group 2 included patients who were managed by tubeless PNL for the treatment of staghorn calculi. Preoperative and postoperative parameters were analyzed between the two groups, including age, stone burden, complications, any interventions, and duration of hospital stay. Results A total of 165 patients (group 1, 106; group 2, 59) were enrolled in the study. No significant differences in age, sex, body mass index, or stone laterality were observed between the two groups. The mean stone burdens (±standard deviation) of group 1 and group 2 were 633.6 (±667.4) and 529.9 (±362.8), respectively (p=0.271). The postoperative stone-free clearance rate was higher in group 2 (78.0%) than in group 1 (69.8%); however, the difference was not clinically significant (p=0.127). In addition, no significant differences in postoperative complications, including fever, bleeding, infection, or additional interventions, were observed between the two groups. Conclusions Our results demonstrated that tubeless PNL has the same effectiveness and safety as conventional PNL in the treatment of staghorn calculi. Tubeless PNL may be feasible for managing renal staghorn calculi. PMID:24175044

Is tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy a feasible technique for the treatment of staghorn calculi?

PubMed

Lee, Sang Cheol; Kim, Chang Hee; Kim, Kwang Taek; Kim, Tae Beom; Kim, Khae Hawn; Jung, Han; Yoon, Sang Jin; Oh, Jin Kyu

2013-10-01

Tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) remains a challenging technique for the surgical treatment of staghorn renal calculi. Our study was designed to compare surgical outcomes between conventional and tubeless PNL. We retrospectively enrolled consecutive patients who underwent conventional or tubeless PNL under general anesthesia performed by a single surgeon (H.J.) for the treatment of staghorn calculi between 2003 and 2012. All patients were divided into two groups: group 1 included patients who underwent conventional PNL and group 2 included patients who were managed by tubeless PNL for the treatment of staghorn calculi. Preoperative and postoperative parameters were analyzed between the two groups, including age, stone burden, complications, any interventions, and duration of hospital stay. A total of 165 patients (group 1, 106; group 2, 59) were enrolled in the study. No significant differences in age, sex, body mass index, or stone laterality were observed between the two groups. The mean stone burdens (±standard deviation) of group 1 and group 2 were 633.6 (±667.4) and 529.9 (±362.8), respectively (p=0.271). The postoperative stone-free clearance rate was higher in group 2 (78.0%) than in group 1 (69.8%); however, the difference was not clinically significant (p=0.127). In addition, no significant differences in postoperative complications, including fever, bleeding, infection, or additional interventions, were observed between the two groups. Our results demonstrated that tubeless PNL has the same effectiveness and safety as conventional PNL in the treatment of staghorn calculi. Tubeless PNL may be feasible for managing renal staghorn calculi.

The Chiropractic Hospital-Based Interventions Research Outcomes Study: Consistency of Outcomes Between Doctors of Chiropractic Treating Patients With Acute Lower Back Pain.

PubMed

Quon, Jeffrey A; Bishop, Paul B; Arthur, Brian

2015-06-01

The aim of this study was to determine if effectiveness differs between community-based doctors of chiropractic administering standardized evidence-based care that includes high-velocity low-amplitude spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) for acute low back pain (LBP). A secondary analysis of randomized controlled trial and observational pilot study data was performed with nonrandom allocation to 4 DCs. Patients included those with Quebec Task Force categories less than or equal to 2 and acute LBP of 2 to 4 weeks' duration. The intervention provided was clinical practice guidelines-based care including high-velocity low-amplitude SMT. Primary outcomes included changes from baseline in modified Roland Disability Questionnaire (RDQ) at 24 weeks. Comparisons of simple main effects at 24 weeks and of marginal main effects in repeated-measures analyses were performed. Between groups, adjusted point-specific differences in RDQ change were minimally clinically important but not statistically significant at 24 weeks (largest pairwise difference, -3.1; 95% confidence interval, -6.3 to 0.1; overall P = .10). However, in optimal analyses that considered the repeated nature of the measurements for each outcome, significant differences in marginal mean RDQ changes were found between groups (largest pairwise difference, -3.8; 95% confidence interval, -4.9 to 2.6; overall P = .03). Overall, DCs differed modestly in their effectiveness in improving LBP-specific disability. The point estimates mirrored typically reported effect sizes from recent systematic reviews of SMT; however, confidence limits did not exclude clinically negligible effects. Copyright © 2015 National University of Health Sciences. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

DPP-4 Inhibitor Treatment in Chinese Type 2 Diabetes Patients: A Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Cai, Xiaoling; Gao, Xueying; Yang, Wenjia; Chen, Yifei; Zhou, Lingli; Zhang, Simin; Han, Xueyao; Ji, Linong

2016-12-01

The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the comprehensive clinical efficacy of dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-4) inhibitors in Chinese type 2 diabetes patients and to evaluate whether there is a different response to treatment with different kinds of DPP-4 inhibitors in those patients. Databases were systematically searched, and qualifying clinical studies of Chinese type 2 diabetes patients were included. A total of 30 studies were included. Treatment with saxagliptin resulted in a significantly greater change from baseline in HbA 1c levels (weighted mean difference [WMD], -1.28%; 95% CI, -1.37% to -1.19%); treatment with sitagliptin led to a significantly greater change from baseline (WMD, -1.17%; 95% CI, -1.46% to -0.89%); treatment with vildagliptin was associated with a significantly greater change in HbA 1c levels (WMD, -0.77%; 95% CI, -0.88% to -0.65%); treatment with linagliptin led to a significantly greater change (WMD, -0.84%; 95% CI, -0.92% to -0.75%); and treatment with alogliptin also led to a significantly greater change (WMD, -0.91%; 95% CI, -1.48% to -0.33%). In terms of body weight, treatment with saxagliptin was associated with no significant decreases in Chinese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients (WMD, -0.17 kg, 95% CI, -4.26 to 3.92 kg). Treatment with sitagliptin and linagliptin was also associated with no significant changes in body weight (WMD, 0.16 and 0.11 kg, respectively, P > 0.05). In Chinese type 2 diabetes patients, the efficacy of glucose control in all five kinds of DPP-4 inhibitor treatments was well confirmed, and no significant change in body weight was found.

Correlation of the tibial tuberosity-trochlear groove distance with the Q-angle.

PubMed

Dickschas, Jörg; Harrer, Jörg; Bayer, Thomas; Schwitulla, Judith; Strecker, Wolf

2016-03-01

The Q-angle has been used for years to quantify lateralization of the patella. The tibial tuberosity-trochlea groove distance (TT-TG distance) was introduced to analyse patellar tracking. Does a significant correlation exist between these two parameters? Do other significant interrelations exist between the Q-angle/TT-TG distance, torsion of the femur and tibia, the frontal axis, overall leg length, gender, former patellar dislocation, BMI? One hundred knees in 55 patients with patellofemoral symptoms were included in a prospective study. All patients underwent clinical examination, including measurement of the Q-angle. A torsional CT was obtained from all patients. The correlation coefficient was 0.33/0.34 (left/right leg), showing that the TT-TG distance tends to rise in direct ratio to a rising Q-angle. Thus, a significant correlation was found (p = 0.017). Femoral and tibial torsion had a positive effect on the TT-TG distance, but showed no significant correlation. Leg length had a significant effect on the TT-TG distance (p = 0.04). The frontal axis had a nonsignificant influence on the Q-angle or TT-TG distance. On average, the Q-angle in women was 2.38° greater than it was in men, but the difference was not significant. A significant correlation was noted between the Q-angle and the TT-TG distance. Both depend on various parameters and must be assessed for the analysis of patellofemoral maltracking. The Q-angle did not differ significantly between men and women; thus, the conclusion is that no different ranges need not be used. Diagnostic study, Level III.

Mosquito, adult feeding on the skin (image)

MedlinePlus

There are many different species of mosquito, which can carry some of the world's most common and significant infectious diseases, including West Nile, Malaria, yellow fever, viral encephalitis, and ...

Is grand multiparity a risk factor for the development of postmenopausal osteoporosis?

PubMed Central

Peker, Nuri; Tosun, Özge Çeliker

2018-01-01

Objective In this study, we investigated the relationship between the development of postmenopausal osteoporosis and parity. Materials and methods The retrospective study included 129 postmenopausal women who were divided into three groups depending on the number of parity: Group I, <5; Group II, 5–9; and Group III, ≥10. The mean age of the subjects was 57.71±5.02 years. Results No significant difference was found among the three groups regarding body mass index values, duration of menopause, mean thyroid stimulating hormone values and frequency of diabetes. Among the three groups, no significant difference was found in terms of the frequency of lumbar osteoporosis (p>0.05), whereas a significant difference was found regarding the frequency of femoral osteoporosis (p=0.012; p<0.05). Conclusion It was revealed that femoral bone mineral density significantly decreased as the number of parity increased. PMID:29636605

Processing of Facial Emotion in Bipolar Depression and Euthymia.

PubMed

Robinson, Lucy J; Gray, John M; Burt, Mike; Ferrier, I Nicol; Gallagher, Peter

2015-10-01

Previous studies of facial emotion processing in bipolar disorder (BD) have reported conflicting findings. In independently conducted studies, we investigate facial emotion labeling in euthymic and depressed BD patients using tasks with static and dynamically morphed images of different emotions displayed at different intensities. Study 1 included 38 euthymic BD patients and 28 controls. Participants completed two tasks: labeling of static images of basic facial emotions (anger, disgust, fear, happy, sad) shown at different expression intensities; the Eyes Test (Baron-Cohen, Wheelwright, Hill, Raste, & Plumb, 2001), which involves recognition of complex emotions using only the eye region of the face. Study 2 included 53 depressed BD patients and 47 controls. Participants completed two tasks: labeling of "dynamic" facial expressions of the same five basic emotions; the Emotional Hexagon test (Young, Perret, Calder, Sprengelmeyer, & Ekman, 2002). There were no significant group differences on any measures of emotion perception/labeling, compared to controls. A significant group by intensity interaction was observed in both emotion labeling tasks (euthymia and depression), although this effect did not survive the addition of measures of executive function/psychomotor speed as covariates. Only 2.6-15.8% of euthymic patients and 7.8-13.7% of depressed patients scored below the 10th percentile of the controls for total emotion recognition accuracy. There was no evidence of specific deficits in facial emotion labeling in euthymic or depressed BD patients. Methodological variations-including mood state, sample size, and the cognitive demands of the tasks-may contribute significantly to the variability in findings between studies.

Courageous Voices: A Curriculum Unit on Women and Language Arts.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eisenberg, Bonnie; Ruthsdotter, Mary

This collection of teaching units, developed by the National Women's History Project, includes biographies of women who have made significant contributions in each of 12 different language arts areas. The topics covered include poets, nonfiction writers, fiction writers, and doing research on women writers. Each unit gives a brief biography of the…

The Adoption and Rejection of Innovations by Strawberry Growers in the Lower Fraser Valley.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alleyne, E. Patrick; Verner, Coolie

The study investigated the adoption behavior of 100 strawberry growers (including 32 Mennonites and 23 Japanese) in the lower Fraser Valley of British Columbia. Adoption of six selected practices was examined in relation to socioeconomic characteristics and ethnicity. Findings included the following: (1) ethnic groups differed significantly on…

Teacher Attitudes on Including Students with Behavior Intervention Plans in a High-School Inclusive Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tucker, Thurman D.

2017-01-01

This research examined attitudes to determine factors influencing teachers' attitudes toward including students with behavior intervention plans in inclusive high-school classrooms. For Research Question 1 one-way ANOVAs analyzed quantitative data with no significant differences found and qualitative data discovered common patterns that BIPs are…

Comparison of automated measurements of electrocardiographic intervals and durations by computer-based algorithms of digital electrocardiographs.

PubMed

Kligfield, Paul; Badilini, Fabio; Rowlandson, Ian; Xue, Joel; Clark, Elaine; Devine, Brian; Macfarlane, Peter; de Bie, Johan; Mortara, David; Babaeizadeh, Saeed; Gregg, Richard; Helfenbein, Eric D; Green, Cynthia L

2014-02-01

Automated measurements of electrocardiographic (ECG) intervals are widely used by clinicians for individual patient diagnosis and by investigators in population studies. We examined whether clinically significant systematic differences exist in ECG intervals measured by current generation digital electrocardiographs from different manufacturers and whether differences, if present, are dependent on the degree of abnormality of the selected ECGs. Measurements of RR interval, PR interval, QRS duration, and QT interval were made blindly by 4 major manufacturers of digital electrocardiographs used in the United States from 600 XML files of ECG tracings stored in the US FDA ECG warehouse and released for the purpose of this study by the Cardiac Safety Research Consortium. Included were 3 groups based on expected QT interval and degree of repolarization abnormality, comprising 200 ECGs each from (1) placebo or baseline study period in normal subjects during thorough QT studies, (2) peak moxifloxacin effect in otherwise normal subjects during thorough QT studies, and (3) patients with genotyped variants of congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS). Differences of means between manufacturers were generally small in the normal and moxifloxacin subjects, but in the LQTS patients, differences of means ranged from 2.0 to 14.0 ms for QRS duration and from 0.8 to 18.1 ms for the QT interval. Mean absolute differences between algorithms were similar for QRS duration and QT intervals in the normal and in the moxifloxacin subjects (mean ≤6 ms) but were significantly larger in patients with LQTS. Small but statistically significant group differences in mean interval and duration measurements and means of individual absolute differences exist among automated algorithms of widely used, current generation digital electrocardiographs. Measurement differences, including QRS duration and the QT interval, are greatest for the most abnormal ECGs. © 2014.

Body frame size in school children is related to the amount of adipose tissue in different depots but not to adipose distribution.

PubMed

Guzmán-de la Garza, Francisco J; González Ayala, Alejandra E; Gómez Nava, Marisol; Martínez Monsiváis, Leislie I; Salinas Martínez, Ana M; Ramírez López, Erik; Mathiew Quirós, Alvaro; Garcia Quintanilla, Francisco

2017-09-10

The main aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that body frame size is related to the amount of fat in different adipose tissue depots and to fat distribution in schoolchildren. Children aged between 5 and 10 years were included in this cross-sectional study (n = 565). Body frame size, adiposity markers (anthropometric, skinfolds thickness, and ultrasound measures), and fat distribution indices were analyzed. Correlation coefficients adjusted by reliability were estimated and analyzed by sex; the significance of the difference between two correlation coefficients was assessed using the Fisher z-transformation. The sample included primarily urban children; 58.6% were normal weight, 16.1% overweight, 19.6% obese, and the rest were underweight. Markers of subcutaneous adiposity, fat mass and fat-free mass, and preperitoneal adiposity showed higher and significant correlations with the sum of the biacromial + bitrochanteric diameter than with the elbow diameter, regardless of sex. The fat distribution conicity index presented significant but weak correlations; and visceral adipose tissue, hepatic steatosis, and the waist-for-hip ratio were not significantly correlated with body frame size measures. Body frame size in school children was related to the amount of adipose tissue in different depots, but not adipose distribution. More studies are needed to confirm this relationship and its importance to predict changes in visceral fat deposition during growth. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Physical activity, energy intake, and obesity prevalence among urban and rural schoolchildren aged 11-12 years in Japan.

PubMed

Itoi, Aya; Yamada, Yosuke; Watanabe, Yoshiyuki; Kimura, Misaka

2012-12-01

The prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity has been shown to differ among regions, including rural-urban regional differences within nations. This study obtained simultaneous accelerometry-derived physical activity, 24 h activity, and food records to clarify the potential contributing factors to rural-urban differences in childhood overweight and obesity in Japan. Sixth-grade children (n = 227, 11-12 years old) from two urban elementary schools in Kyoto and four rural elementary schools in Tohoku participated in the study. The children were instructed to wear a pedometer that included a uniaxial accelerometer and, assisted by their parents, keep minute-by-minute 24 h activity and food records. For 12 children, the total energy expenditure was measured by the doubly labeled water method that was used to correct the Lifecorder-predicted activity energy expenditure and physical activity level. The overweight and obesity prevalence was significantly higher in rural than in urban children. The number of steps per day, activity energy expenditure, physical activity level, and duration of walking to school were significantly lower in rural than in urban children. In contrast, the reported energy intake did not differ significantly between the regions. The physical activity and duration of the walk to school were significantly correlated with body mass index. Rural children had a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity, and this may be at least partly caused by lower physical activity, especially less time spent walking to school, than urban children.

Neurocognition in early-onset schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders.

PubMed

Hooper, Stephen R; Giuliano, Anthony J; Youngstrom, Eric A; Breiger, David; Sikich, Linmarie; Frazier, Jean A; Findling, Robert L; McClellan, Jon; Hamer, Robert M; Vitiello, Benedetto; Lieberman, Jeffrey A

2010-01-01

We examined the neuropsychological functioning of youth enrolled in the NIMH funded trial, Treatment of Early-Onset Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (TEOSS). We compared the baseline neuropsychological functioning of youth with schizophrenia (SZ, n = 79) to those with schizoaffective disorder (SA, n = 40), and examined the relationship of different variables of illness severity and adaptive behavior to neuropsychological functioning. Participants ranged in age from 8 to 19 years. Diagnostic status was confirmed via structured interview over multiple time points. Domains of neuropsychological functioning included fine-motor, attention, working memory, problem-solving efficiency, inhibitory control, and social cognition. Other variables included intelligence (IQ), academic achievement skills, adaptive behavior, and different measures of illness severity. The two groups did not differ on IQ or on any of the neuropsychological domains. The SZ group performed significantly lower in spelling. A high proportion of individuals in both groups reflected significant intellectual and academic achievement skill deficits. Significant correlations were found between the neurocognitive domains and both illness severity and adaptive behavior variables. There were few differences between the SZ and SA groups on IQ, achievement, or neuropsychological functioning; however, both groups showed significantly high rates of deficits in IQ and basic academic skills. Correlations of the neurocognitive functions with illness severity and adaptive behavior were small to moderate in magnitude. These findings continue to implicate the importance of neurocognitive functioning as a key area of vulnerability in the study of youth with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.

ANESTHETIC INDUCTION AND RECOVERY PARAMETERS IN BEARDED DRAGONS (POGONA VITTICEPS): COMPARISON OF ISOFLURANE DELIVERED IN 100% OXYGEN VERSUS 21% OXYGEN.

PubMed

O, Odette; Churgin, Sarah M; Sladky, Kurt K; Smith, Lesley J

2015-09-01

Inland bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps, n=6) were anesthetized for 1 hr using isoflurane in either 100% oxygen or 21% oxygen (FI 21; medical-grade room air). Parameters of anesthetic depth were recorded throughout both induction and recovery by an observer blinded to the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), including the loss and return of withdrawal and righting reflexes, muscle tone, ability to intubate or extubate, and return to spontaneous respiration. Physiologic data were recorded every 5 min throughout the anesthetic procedures, including heart rate, body temperature, end-tidal CO2, hemoglobin oxygen saturation (SpO2), and percent expired isoflurane. Lizards were subjected to application of a noxious stimulus (needle stick) at 0, 30, and 60 min, and responses recorded. Following a minimum 7-day washout period, the experiment was repeated with each lizard subjected to the other protocol in a randomized, complete crossover design. The only statistically significant difference was a lower mean SpO2 in the group inspiring 21% oxygen (P<0.0020). No statistically significant differences were detected in any parameters during induction or recovery; however, all values were uniformly shorter for the FI 21 group, indicating a possible clinically significant difference. A larger sample size may have detected statistically significant differences. Further studies are needed to evaluate these effects in other reptile species and with the concurrent use of injectable anesthetic and analgesic drugs.

Does immobilization after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair increase tendon healing? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Shen, Chong; Tang, Zhi-Hong; Hu, Jun-Zu; Zou, Guo-Yao; Xiao, Rong-Chi; Yan, Dong-Xue

2014-09-01

To determine whether immobilization after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair improved tendon healing compared with early passive motion. A systematic electronic literature search was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing early passive motion with immobilization after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. The primary outcome assessed was tendon healing in the repaired cuff. Secondary outcome measures were range of motion (ROM) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) shoulder scale, Simple Shoulder Test (SST), Constant, and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain scores. Pooled analyses were performed using a random effects model to obtain summary estimates of treatment effect with 95% confidence intervals. Heterogeneity among included studies was quantified. Three RCTs examining 265 patients were included. Meta-analysis revealed no significant difference in tendon healing in the repaired cuff between the early-motion and immobilization groups. A significant difference in external rotation at 6 months postoperatively favored early motion over immobilization, but no significant difference was observed at 1 year postoperatively. In one study, Constant scores were slightly higher in the early-motion group than in the immobilization group. Two studies found no significant difference in ASES, SST, or VAS score between groups. We found no evidence that immobilization after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair was superior to early-motion rehabilitation in terms of tendon healing or clinical outcome. Patients in the early-motion group may recover ROM more rapidly. Level II; systematic review of levels I and II studies.

Meta-analyses of the Association of Sleep Apnea with Insulin Resistance, and the Effects of CPAP on HOMA-IR, Adiponectin, and Visceral Adipose Fat

PubMed Central

Iftikhar, Imran H.; Hoyos, Camilla M.; Phillips, Craig L.; Magalang, Ulysses J.

2015-01-01

Objective: We sought to conduct an updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on insulin resistance, as measured by homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), visceral abdominal fat (VAF), and adiponectin. Additionally, we performed a separate meta-analysis and meta-regression of studies on the association of insulin resistance and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Methods: All included studies were searched from PubMed (from conception to March 15, 2014). Data were pooled across all included RCTs as the mean difference in HOMA-IR and VAF, and as the standardized mean difference in the case of adiponectin analysis. From the included case-control studies, data on the difference of HOMA-IR between cases and controls were pooled across all studies, as the standardized mean difference (SMD). Results: There was a significant difference in HOMA-IR (−0.43 [95% CIs: −0.75 to −0.11], p = 0.008) between CPAP treated and non CPAP treated participants. However, there was no significant difference in VAF or adiponectin; (−47.93 [95% CI: −112.58 to 16.72], p = 0.14) and (−0.06 [95% CI: −0.28 to 0.15], p = 0.56), respectively. Meta-analysis of 16 case-control studies showed a pooled SMD in HOMA-IR of 0.51 (95% CI: 0.28 to 0.75), p ≤ 0.001, between cases and controls. Conclusions: The results of our meta-analyses show that CPAP has a favorable effect on insulin resistance. This effect is not associated with any significant changes in total adiponectin levels or amount of VAF. Our findings also confirm a significant association between OSA and insulin resistance. Citation: Iftikhar IH, Hoyos CM, Phillips CL, Magalang UJ. Meta-analyses of the association of sleep apnea with insulin resistance, and the effects of CPAP on HOMA-IR, adiponectin, and visceral adipose fat. J Clin Sleep Med 2015;11(4):475–485. PMID:25700870

Early versus delayed rehabilitation following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: A systematic review.

PubMed

Gallagher, Brian P; Bishop, Meghan E; Tjoumakaris, Fotios P; Freedman, Kevin B

2015-05-01

Early passive range of motion (ROM) following arthroscopic cuff repair is thought to decrease postoperative stiffness and improve functionality. However, early aggressive rehabilitation may compromise repair integrity. Our purpose was to perform a systematic review to determine if there are differences between early and delayed rehabilitation after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in terms of clinical outcomes and healing. We performed a literature search with the terms 'arthroscopic rotator cuff', 'immobilization', 'early', 'delayed', 'late', and 'rehabilitation' using PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and EMBASE. Selection criteria included: level I/II evidence ≤ 6 months in duration, comparing early versus delayed rehabilitation following arthroscopic repair. Data regarding demographics, sample sizes, duration, cuff pathology, surgery, rehabilitation, functional outcomes, pain, ROM and anatomic assessment of healing were analyzed. PRIMSA criteria were followed. We identified six articles matching our criteria. Three reported significantly increased functional scores within the first 3-6 months with early rehabilitation compared to the delayed group, only one of which continued to observe a difference at a final follow-up of 15 months. Four articles showed improved ROM in the first 3-6 months post-operatively with early rehabilitation. One noted transient differences in pain scores. Only one study noted significant differences in ROM at final follow-up. No study reported any significant difference in rates of rotator cuff re-tear. However, two studies noted a trend towards increased re-tear with early rehabilitation that did not reach significance. This was more pronounced in studies including medium-large tears. Early rehabilitation after arthroscopic cuff repair is associated with some initial improvements in ROM and function. Ultimately, similar clinical and anatomical outcomes between groups existed at 1 year. While there was no significant difference between groups in anatomic failure of the repaired cuff, there may be a trend towards increased re-tear with larger tears.

Study of the Effects of Total Modulation Transfer Function Changes on Observer Performance Using Clinical Mammograms.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bencomo, Jose Antonio Fagundez

The main goal of this study was to relate physical changes in image quality measured by Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) to diagnostic accuracy. One Hundred and Fifty Kodak Min-R screen/film combination conventional craniocaudal mammograms obtained with the Pfizer Microfocus Mammographic system were selected from the files of the Department of Radiology, at M.D. Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute. The mammograms included 88 cases with a variety of benign diagnosis and 62 cases with a variety of malignant biopsy diagnosis. The average age of the patient population was 55 years old. 70 cases presented calcifications with 30 cases having calcifications smaller than 0.5mm. 46 cases presented irregular bordered masses larger than 1 cm. 30 cases presented smooth bordered masses with 20 larger than 1 cm. Four separated copies of the original images were made each having a different change in the MTF using a defocusing technique whereby copies of the original were obtained by light exposure through different thicknesses (spacing) of transparent film base. The mammograms were randomized, and evaluated by three experienced mammographers for the degree of visibility of various anatomical breast structures and pathological lesions (masses and calicifications), subjective image quality, and mammographic interpretation. 3,000 separate evaluations were anayzed by several statistical techniques including Receiver Operating Characteristic curve analysis, McNemar test for differences between proportions and the Landis et al. method of agreement weighted kappa for ordinal categorical data. Results from the statistical analysis show: (1) There were no statistical significant differences in the diagnostic accuracy of the observers when diagnosing from mammograms with the same MTF. (2) There were no statistically significant differences in diagnostic accuracy for each observer when diagnosing from mammograms with the different MTF's used in the study. (3) There statistical significant differences in detail visibility between the copies and the originals. Detail visibility was better in the originals. (4) Feature interpretations were not significantly different between the originals and the copies. (5) Perception of image quality did not affect image interpretation. Continuation and improvement of this research ca be accomplished by: using a case population more sensitive to MTF changes, i.e., asymptomatic women with minimum breast cancer, more observers (including less experienced radiologists and experienced technologists) must collaborate in the study, and using a minimum of 200 benign and 200 malignant cases.

A depression training session with consumer educators to reduce stigmatizing views and improve pharmacists' depression care attitudes and practices.

PubMed

Liekens, Sophie; Smits, Tim; Laekeman, Gert; Foulon, Veerle

2013-08-12

To measure the impact of a depression training day for pharmacists that included a 75-minute session with a consumer educator. The training day included interactive lectures on depression; the effects and side effects of and indications for the use of antidepressants; adherence issues; non-drug treatment options for depression; and basic skills in communication. Pharmacists also participated in a session with a consumer educator and in counseling exercises that included role playing. The study used a randomized, clustered, comparative design to measure pharmacists' stigma, attitudes, and current practice related to the provision of pharmaceutical care to people with depression. Mean scores for depression-care practice after the training session were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group. Analysis of the changes between baseline and postintervention measures in both the control and intervention groups confirmed a significant difference in the change in both social distance and practice but no significant difference in the change in attitude between the 2 groups of pharmacists. A continuing-education depression training day for pharmacists that involve consumer educators may improve the care delivered in the community pharmacy to people with depression.

Human Body 3D Posture Estimation Using Significant Points and Two Cameras

PubMed Central

Juang, Chia-Feng; Chen, Teng-Chang; Du, Wei-Chin

2014-01-01

This paper proposes a three-dimensional (3D) human posture estimation system that locates 3D significant body points based on 2D body contours extracted from two cameras without using any depth sensors. The 3D significant body points that are located by this system include the head, the center of the body, the tips of the feet, the tips of the hands, the elbows, and the knees. First, a linear support vector machine- (SVM-) based segmentation method is proposed to distinguish the human body from the background in red, green, and blue (RGB) color space. The SVM-based segmentation method uses not only normalized color differences but also included angle between pixels in the current frame and the background in order to reduce shadow influence. After segmentation, 2D significant points in each of the two extracted images are located. A significant point volume matching (SPVM) method is then proposed to reconstruct the 3D significant body point locations by using 2D posture estimation results. Experimental results show that the proposed SVM-based segmentation method shows better performance than other gray level- and RGB-based segmentation approaches. This paper also shows the effectiveness of the 3D posture estimation results in different postures. PMID:24883422

Effectiveness of weight loss interventions – is there a difference between men and women: a systematic review

PubMed Central

Williams, R L; Wood, L G; Collins, C E; Callister, R

2015-01-01

Effective strategies are required to reduce the prevalence of overweight and obesity; however, the effectiveness of current weight loss programmes is variable. One contributing factor may be the difference in weight loss success between men and women. A systematic review was conducted to determine whether the effectiveness of weight loss interventions differs between men and women. Randomized controlled trials published up until March 2014 were included. Effect sizes (Hedges' g) were used to examine the difference in weight outcomes between men and women. A total of 58 studies met the eligibility criteria with 49 studies of higher quality included in the final data synthesis. Eleven studies that directly compared weight loss in men and women reported a significant sex difference. Ten of these reported that men lost more weight than women; however, women also lost a significant amount of weight. Analysis of effect sizes found small differences in weight loss favouring men for both diet (g = 0.489) and diet plus exercise (g = 0.240) interventions. There is little evidence from this review to indicate that men and women should adopt different weight loss strategies. Current evidence supports moderate energy restriction in combination with exercise for weight loss in both men and women. PMID:25494712

Restricted versus liberal water intake for preventing morbidity and mortality in preterm infants.

PubMed

Bell, E F; Acarregui, M J

2008-01-23

Most premature infants are not sufficiently mature physiologically to ingest all of their required water and nutrients orally. Therefore, premature infants rely on their caregivers to regulate their volume of water intake. Thus, the caregiver must determine the amount of water to be given each day to such infants. The objective of this review is to examine the effects of water intake on postnatal weight loss and on the risks of dehydration, patent ductus arteriosus, necrotizing enterocolitis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intracranial hemorrhage, and death in premature infants. Randomized clinical trials identified in previous versions of this review were re-examined and, in each case, retained. Additional trials were sought that compared the outcomes of interest in groups of premature infants who were given different levels of water intake according to experimental protocol. Such trials were sought in a list of trials provided by the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group, with a PubMed search, and in the authors' personal files. Only randomized clinical trials of varying water intake in premature infants are included. The review was limited to trials that included infants whose water intake was provided mainly or entirely by intravascular infusion. Included studies reported at least one of the following outcomes: postnatal weight loss, dehydration, patent ductus arteriosus, necrotizing enterocolitis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intracranial hemorrhage, and death. Standard methods of the Cochrane Collaboration were used. The studies to be included were selected by two reviewers, each of whom also assessed the methodological quality of each trial. Data were independently extracted by the reviewers, who agreed on the key details. The data were then entered into tables using RevMan 4.3.1. The adverse event rates were calculated for the restricted and liberal water intake groups for each dichotomous outcome, and the relative risk and risk difference were computed. In addition, the maximal weight loss results were recorded, and the weighted mean difference was computed. The analyses - including calculation of relative risk, risk difference, and weighted mean difference - and tests of heterogeneity were accomplished using RevMan 4.3.1 software. The analysis of the five studies taken together indicates that restricted water intake significantly increases postnatal weight loss and significantly reduces the risks of patent ductus arteriosus and necrotizing enterocolitis. With restricted water intake, there are trends toward increased risk of dehydration and reduced risks of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intracranial hemorrhage, and death, but these trends are not statistically significant. Based on this analysis, the most prudent prescription for water intake to premature infants would seem to be careful restriction of water intake so that physiological needs are met without allowing significant dehydration. This practice could be expected to decrease the risks of patent ductus arteriosus and necrotizing enterocolitis without significantly increasing the risk of adverse consequences.

Attention and Off-Topic Speech in the Recounts of Middle-Age and Elderly Adults: A Pilot Investigation

PubMed Central

Wills, Courtney L.; Capilouto, Gilson J.; Wright, Heather Harris

2013-01-01

Purpose The discourse of healthy older adults is commonly described as being lengthy and off-topic and is thought to be associated with a general cognitive decline that accompanies healthy aging. The purpose of this preliminary study was to investigate the overall decline in attention associated with healthy aging and its relationship to instances of off-topic speech (OTS). Method Thirty cognitively healthy adults divided into 5 age cohorts (40–80) completed cognitive measures of attention and several discourse tasks that included recounting personal events. Results Cohorts differed significantly with respect to the measures of attention. However, no significant differences in the incidence of OTS were detected between the cohorts. Attention and the incidence of OTS were not significantly correlated within any of the cohorts. Conclusion No significant differences in the incidence of OTS and its relation to attention measures were found. However, the relationship between age-related declines in attention and increased OTS approached significance, suggesting the need for further study. PMID:23420319

Selection of diet for culture of juvenile silver pomfret, Pampus argenteus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Shiming; Shi, Zhaohong; Yin, Fei; Sun, Peng; Wang, Jiangang

2012-03-01

Juvenile silver pomfret, Pampus argenteus, was grown in culture tanks for 9 weeks on four different diets, and their effects on fish growth, digestive enzyme activity, and body composition were assessed. The feeding regime was as follows: Diet 1: fish meat; Diet 2: fish meat+artificial feed; Diet 3: fish meat+artificial feed+Agamaki clam meat; Diet 4: fish meat+artificial feed+Agamaki clam+copepods. The greatest weight gain was associated with Diet 4, while the lowest weight gain was associated with Diet 1. No significant difference was observed in weight gain between fish receiving Diet 2 and Diet 3. Specific growth rate followed similar trends as weight gain. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) of fish fed Diet 1 was significantly higher than the other fish groups, but no significant differences were observed in FCRs of fish fed Diet 2, Diet 3 or Diet 4. There was also no significant difference in the hepatosomatic index (HSI) between the four diets. For fish that received Diets 2-4, containing artificial feed, higher protease activities were detected. A higher lipid content of the experimental diets also significantly increased lipase activities and body lipid content. No significant differences in amylase activity or body protein content were found between Diets 1-4. In conclusion, a variety of food components, including copepods and artificial feed, in the diet of silver pomfret significantly increased digestive enzyme activity and could improve growth performance.

Association between cognitive impairment and eating habits in elderly Chinese subjects over 90 years of age.

PubMed

Gao, Lingyun; Dong, Birong; Hao, Qiu Kui; Ding, Xiang

2013-08-01

Eating habits may have a key influence on cognitive function, however, the relationship between dietary intake and cognitive impairment in the elderly Chinese population has not been explored. The present study investigated the association between cognitive impairment and eating habits in elderly Chinese subjects >90 years of age. This study comprised data from subjects included in the 2005 Project of Longevity and Ageing in Dujiangyan, China. Subjects were divided into two groups: cognitive impairment group and normal group. Sociodemographic and dietary habit data were collected and cognitive function was assessed in all subjects using the Mini-Mental State Examination. Data from 763 subjects (249 men, 514 women) were included. There was no statistically significant difference in eating habits between the two groups. Education level in the cognitive impairment group was significantly lower than in the normal group. Significant between-group differences were detected in factors relating to subjects' professions. Eating habits were not related to cognitive impairment in elderly Chinese people >90 years of age.

Quantification of egg proteome changes during fertilization in sterlet Acipenser ruthenus.

PubMed

Niksirat, Hamid; Andersson, Liselotte; Golpour, Amin; Chupani, Latifeh; James, Peter

2017-08-19

Eggs of sterlet are discharged outside into ambient aquatic environment where egg activation and fertilization occur. Effects of different activation media including freshwater and clay suspension on protein abundances of egg were quantified in sterlet Acipenser ruthenus. In-gel digestion and high resolution mass spectrometry were used for label-free protein quantification in the eggs of five females. No significant (p > 0.05) difference was found between protein abundances in eggs activated with different media. However, results showed significant (p < 0.05, fold change ≥2) reduction in the abundances of nine proteins including six glycoproteins, enolase and heat shock protein in activated groups compared to freshly ovulated eggs as control. The fact that abundance of proteasome subunit alpha significantly reduced only in eggs which were activated by clay suspension suggests that activation medium can somehow intervene with protein regulation during fertilization. In conclusion, external fertilization in sturgeon egg is accompanied by huge release of proteins into the external environment that may participate in the construction of a transient microenvironment around egg for attraction and protection of spermatozoa to ensure ensuing fertilization. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD006232. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The neuroeconomics of nicotine dependence: a preliminary functional magnetic resonance imaging study of delay discounting of monetary and cigarette rewards in smokers.

PubMed

MacKillop, James; Amlung, Michael T; Wier, Lauren M; David, Sean P; Ray, Lara A; Bickel, Warren K; Sweet, Lawrence H

2012-04-30

Neuroeconomics integrates behavioral economics and cognitive neuroscience to understand the neurobiological basis for normative and maladaptive decision making. Delay discounting is a behavioral economic index of impulsivity that reflects capacity to delay gratification and has been consistently associated with nicotine dependence. This preliminary study used functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine delay discounting for money and cigarette rewards in 13 nicotine dependent adults. Significant differences between preferences for smaller immediate rewards and larger delayed rewards were evident in a number of regions of interest (ROIs), including the medial prefrontal cortex, anterior insular cortex, middle temporal gyrus, middle frontal gyrus, and cingulate gyrus. Significant differences between money and cigarette rewards were generally lateralized, with cigarette choices associated with left hemisphere activation and money choices associated with right hemisphere activation. Specific ROI differences included the posterior parietal cortex, medial and middle frontal gyrus, ventral striatum, temporoparietal cortex, and angular gyrus. Impulsivity as measured by behavioral choices was significantly associated with both individual ROIs and a combined ROI model. These findings provide initial evidence in support of applying a neuroeconomic approach to understanding nicotine dependence. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Peer support of complex health behaviors in prevention and disease management with special reference to diabetes: systematic reviews.

PubMed

Fisher, Edwin B; Boothroyd, Renée I; Elstad, Emily A; Hays, Laura; Henes, Amy; Maslow, Gary R; Velicer, Clayton

2017-01-01

Examine Peer Support (PS) for complex, sustained health behaviors in prevention or disease management with emphasis on diabetes prevention and management. PS was defined as emotional, motivational and practical assistance provided by nonprofessionals for complex health behaviors. Initial review examined 65 studies drawn from 1442 abstracts identified through PubMed, published 1/1/2000-7/15/2011. From this search, 24 reviews were also identified. Extension of the search in diabetes identified 30 studies published 1/1/2000-12/31/2015. In initial review, 54 of all 65 studies (83.1%) reported significant impacts of PS, 40 (61.5%) reporting between-group differences and another 14 (21.5%) reporting significant within-group changes. Across 19 of 24 reviews providing quantifiable findings, a median of 64.5% of studies reviewed reported significant effects of PS. In extended review of diabetes, 26 of all 30 studies (86.7%) reported significant impacts of PS, 17 (56.7%) reporting between-group differences and another nine (30.0%) reporting significant within-group changes. Among 19 of these 30 reporting HbA1c data, average reduction was 0.76 points. Studies that did not find effects of PS included other sources of support, implementation or methodological problems, lack of acceptance of interventions, poor fit to recipient needs, and possible harm of unmoderated PS. Across diverse settings, including under-resourced countries and health care systems, PS is effective in improving complex health behaviors in disease prevention and management including in diabetes.

Cardiotoxicity of Freon among refrigeration services workers: comparative cross-sectional study

PubMed Central

2009-01-01

Background Freon includes a number of gaseous, colorless chlorofluorocarbons. Although freon is generally considered to be a fluorocarbon of relatively low toxicity; significantly detrimental effects may occur upon over exposure. The purpose of the present study is to investigate whether occupational exposure to fluorocarbons can induce arterial hypertension, myocardial ischemia, cardiac arrhythmias, elevated levels of plasma lipids and renal dysfunction. Methods This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the cardiology clinic of the Suez Canal Authority Hospital (Egypt). The study included 23 apparently healthy male workers at the refrigeration services workshop who were exposed to fluorocarbons (FC 12 and FC 22) and 23 likewise apparently healthy male workers (unexposed), the control group. All the participants were interviewed using a pre-composed questionnaire and were subjected to a clinical examination and relevant laboratory investigations. Results There were no significant statistical differences between the groups studied regarding symptoms suggesting arterial hypertension and renal affection, although a significantly higher percentage of the studied refrigeration services workers had symptoms of arrhythmias. None of the workers had symptoms suggesting coronary artery disease. Clinical examination revealed that the refrigeration services workers had a significantly higher mean pulse rate compared to the controls, though no significant statistical differences were found in arterial blood pressure measurements between the two study groups. Exercise stress testing of the workers studied revealed normal heart reaction to the increased need for oxygen, while sinus tachycardia was detected in all the participants. The results of Holter monitoring revealed significant differences within subject and group regarding the number of abnormal beats detected throughout the day of monitoring (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences detected in the average heart rate during the monitoring period within subject or group. Most laboratory investigations revealed absence of significant statistical differences for lipid profile markers, serum electrolyte levels and glomerular lesion markers between the groups except for cholesterol and urinary β2-microglobulin (tubular lesion markers) levels which were significantly elevated in freon exposed workers. Conclusions Unprotected occupational exposure to chlorofluorocarbons can induce cardiotoxicity in the form of cardiac arrhythmias. The role of chlorofluorocarbons in inducing arterial hypertension and coronary artery diseases is unclear, although significantly elevated serum cholesterol and urinary β2-microglobulin levels raise a concern. PMID:19594908

Guide for Calculating and Interpreting Effect Sizes and Confidence Intervals in Intellectual and Developmental Disability Research Studies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dunst, Carl J.; Hamby, Deborah W.

2012-01-01

This paper includes a nontechnical description of methods for calculating effect sizes in intellectual and developmental disability studies. Different hypothetical studies are used to illustrate how null hypothesis significance testing (NHST) and effect size findings can result in quite different outcomes and therefore conflicting results. Whereas…

Conventions of Courtship: Gender and Race Differences in the Significance of Dating Rituals

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jackson, Pamela Braboy; Kleiner, Sibyl; Geist, Claudia; Cebulko, Kara

2011-01-01

Dating rituals include dating--courtship methods that are regularly enacted. This study explores gender and race differences in the relative importance placed on certain symbolic activities previously identified by the dating literature as constituting such rituals. Using information collected from a racially diverse sample of college students (N…

Depression and College Stress among University Undergraduates: Do Mattering and Self-Esteem Make a Difference?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dixon, Sarah K.; Kurpius, Sharon E. Robinson

2008-01-01

Depression and college stress, major concerns among undergraduates, are potentially related to self-esteem and mattering. This study investigated the interrelationships among these four variables. Participants included college students (199 males and 256 females) between the ages of 18 and 23. Significant sex differences were found with women…

HIV+ Men and Women Show Different Performance Patterns on Procedural Learning Tasks

PubMed Central

Martin, Eileen; Gonzalez, Raul; Vassileva, Jasmin; Maki, Pauline

2010-01-01

The literature suggests that nondeclarative, or nonconscious, learning might be impaired among HIV+ individuals compared with HIV− matched control groups, but these studies have included relatively few women. We administered measures of motor skill and probabilistic learning, tasks with a nondeclarative or procedural learning component that are dependent on integrity of prefrontal-striatal systems, to well-matched groups of 148 men and 65 women with a history of substance dependence that included 45 men and 30 women seropositive for HIV. All participants were abstinent at testing. Compared to HIV− women, HIV+ women performed significantly more poorly on both tasks, but HIV+ men’s performance did not differ significantly compared to HIV− men on either task. These different patterns of performance indicate that features of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) can not always be generalized from men to women. Additional studies are needed to address directly the possibility of sex differences in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) and the possibility that women might be more vulnerable to the effects of HIV and substance dependence on some neurocognitive functions. PMID:20694870

Black, Hispanic, and White Girls' Perceptions of Environmental and Social Support and Enjoyment of Physical Activity

PubMed Central

Grieser, Mira; Neumark-Sztainer, Dianne; Saksvig, Brit I.; Lee, Jung-Sun; Felton, Gwen M.; Kubik, Martha Y.

2009-01-01

Background This study examines the differences among black, Hispanic, and white adolescent girls in their perceptions surrounding physical activity (PA), including support within the school climate, friend and family social support, and personal enjoyment. Methods Participants included 1466 sixth-grade girls from 36 middle schools across the United States. Participants were 20% black, 21% Hispanic, 47% white, and 12% of other or mixed races. Multivariate analyses were performed on each scale, adjusting for body mass index and free and reduced-price lunch status. Results Results showed racial differences on several variables. Black girls, compared with white girls, perceived significantly lower PA enjoyment (p < .001) and teacher support for PA (p = .004). Hispanic girls experienced less PA enjoyment (p = .003) and perceived less support for PA from boys (p = .001) and their families (p = .008) than white girls. Black girls reported significantly higher levels of physical education (PE) enjoyment than did white girls (p = .003). Conclusions Differences in perceived PA support and enjoyment across race raise questions about why these differences exist and how best to address disparities within interventions. PMID:18489464

Functional modularity in lake-dwelling characin fishes of Mexico

PubMed Central

Bautista, Amando; Herder, Fabian; Doadrio, Ignacio

2017-01-01

Modular evolution promotes evolutionary change, allowing independent variation across morphological units. Recent studies have shown that under contrasting ecological pressures, patterns of modularity could be related to divergent evolution. The main goal of the present study was to evaluate the presence of modular evolution in two sister lacustrine species, Astyanax aeneus and A. caballeroi, which are differentiated by their trophic habits. Two different datasets were analyzed: (1) skull X-rays from 73 specimens (35 A. aeneus and 38 A. caballeroi) to characterize skull variation patterns, considering both species and sex effects. For this dataset, three different modularity hypotheses were tested, previously supported in other lacustrine divergent species; (2) a complete body shape dataset was also tested for four modularity hypotheses, which included a total of 196 individuals (110 Astyanax aeneus and 86 A. caballeroi). Skull shape showed significant differences among species and sex (P < 0.001), where Astyanax caballeroi species showed an upwardly projected mandible and larger preorbital region. For the skull dataset, the modularity hypothesis ranked first included three partitioning modules. While for the complete body dataset the best ranked hypothesis included two modules (head vs the rest of the body), being significant only for A. caballeroi. PMID:28951817

Functional modularity in lake-dwelling characin fishes of Mexico.

PubMed

Ornelas-García, Claudia Patricia; Bautista, Amando; Herder, Fabian; Doadrio, Ignacio

2017-01-01

Modular evolution promotes evolutionary change, allowing independent variation across morphological units. Recent studies have shown that under contrasting ecological pressures, patterns of modularity could be related to divergent evolution. The main goal of the present study was to evaluate the presence of modular evolution in two sister lacustrine species, Astyanax aeneus and A. caballeroi , which are differentiated by their trophic habits. Two different datasets were analyzed: (1) skull X-rays from 73 specimens (35 A. aeneus and 38 A. caballeroi ) to characterize skull variation patterns, considering both species and sex effects. For this dataset, three different modularity hypotheses were tested, previously supported in other lacustrine divergent species; (2) a complete body shape dataset was also tested for four modularity hypotheses, which included a total of 196 individuals (110 Astyanax aeneus and 86 A. caballeroi ). Skull shape showed significant differences among species and sex ( P  < 0.001), where Astyanax caballeroi species showed an upwardly projected mandible and larger preorbital region. For the skull dataset, the modularity hypothesis ranked first included three partitioning modules. While for the complete body dataset the best ranked hypothesis included two modules (head vs the rest of the body), being significant only for A. caballeroi .

Randomized and controlled clinical study of modified prescriptions of Simiao Pill in the treatment of acute gouty arthritis.

PubMed

Shi, Xin-de; Li, Guo-chun; Qian, Zu-xi; Jin, Ze-qiu; Song, Yan

2008-03-01

To investigate the compatibility of a modified prescription of Simiao Pill in the treatment of acute gouty arthritis and to verify the clinical efficacy and safety of the drug through a clinical trial. A randomized and controlled clinical trial was designed based on clinical epidemiological principles. A total of 107 patients with acute gouty arthritis were enrolled and randomly assigned to four groups. The first group (Group I) included 27 patients taking gout prescription I; the second group (Group II) included 27 patients taking gout prescription II; the third group (Group III) included 28 patients taking gout prescription III; and the fourth group (control group) included 25 patients taking indomethacin and Benzobromarone as a control group. The duration of the treatment in all 4 groups was two weeks. After the treatment, the index of blood uric acid, blood leukocyte count, score of clinical symptoms, etc. were observed and measured. The total clinical effective rate of the three different modified prescriptions of the Simiao Pill was above 96%, significantly superior to that of the control group (68%, P<0.05). In terms of the improvement of main symptoms, the scores of four symptoms in all TCM treatment and control groups decreased after treatment, with statistically significant differences (P<0.05). Moreover, the scores markedly fell more so in the three Chinese herb groups than in the control group, and especially in Group III (P<0.05). There was a statistically significant difference in blood uric acid values before and after the treatment in the same group but no significant inter-group difference was seen. The modified prescriptions, based on the clinical research, clinical experience and traditional Chinese medicine theory, did show a better effect than Western medicine in this clinical study. Moreover, the prescriptions were precise, with the herbs inexpensive and readily available. The patients had good compliance with less adverse reactions noted. The modified prescription has a favorable prospect for future development and is worthy of further blind trials with larger samples.

Principles of Statistics: What the Sports Medicine Professional Needs to Know.

PubMed

Riemann, Bryan L; Lininger, Monica R

2018-07-01

Understanding the results and statistics reported in original research remains a large challenge for many sports medicine practitioners and, in turn, may be among one of the biggest barriers to integrating research into sports medicine practice. The purpose of this article is to provide minimal essentials a sports medicine practitioner needs to know about interpreting statistics and research results to facilitate the incorporation of the latest evidence into practice. Topics covered include the difference between statistical significance and clinical meaningfulness; effect sizes and confidence intervals; reliability statistics, including the minimal detectable difference and minimal important difference; and statistical power. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fungal Microbiota Profile in Newly Diagnosed Treatment-naïve Children with Crohn's Disease.

PubMed

El Mouzan, Mohammad; Wang, Feng; Al Mofarreh, Mohammad; Menon, Rajita; Al Barrag, Ahmad; Korolev, Kirill S; Al Sarkhy, Ahmad; Al Asmi, Mona; Hamed, Yassin; Saeed, Anjum; Dowd, Scot E; Assiri, Asaad; Winter, Harland

2017-05-01

Although increasing evidence suggests a role for fungi in inflammatory bowel disease [IBD], data are scarce and mostly from adults. Our aim was to define the characteristics of fungal microbiota in newly diagnosed treatment-naïve children with Crohn's disease [CD]. The children referred for colonoscopy were prospectively enrolled in the study at King Khalid University Hospital, King Saud University, and Al Mofarreh Polyclinics in Riyadh. Tissue and stool samples were collected and frozen till sequencing analysis. The children with confirmed CD diagnosis were designated as cases and the others as non- IBD controls; 78 samples were collected from 35 children [15 CD and 20 controls]. Statistical analysis was performed to investigate CD associations and diversity. CD-associated fungi varied with the level of phylogenetic tree. There was no significant difference in abundance between normal and inflamed mucosa. Significantly abundant CD-associated taxa included Psathyrellaceae [p = 0.01], Cortinariaceae [p = 0.04], Psathyrella [p = 0.003], and Gymnopilus [p = 0.03]. Monilinia was significantly depleted [p = 0.03], whereas other depleted taxa, although not statistically significant, included Leotiomycetes [p = 0.06], Helotiales [p = 0.08], and Sclerotiniaceae [p = 0.07]. There was no significant difference in fungal diversity between CD and controls. We report highly significant fungal dysbiosis in newly diagnosed treatment-naïve CD children. Depleted and more abundant taxa suggest anti-inflammatory and pro-inflamatory potentials, respectively. Further studies with larger sample size and including functional analysis are needed to clarify the significance of the fungal community in the pathogenesis of CD. Copyright © 2017 European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation (ECCO). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com

Second-line single-agent versus doublet chemotherapy as salvage therapy for metastatic urothelial cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Raggi, D; Miceli, R; Sonpavde, G; Giannatempo, P; Mariani, L; Galsky, M D; Bellmunt, J; Necchi, A

2016-01-01

The efficacy and safety of a combination of chemotherapeutic agent compared with single-agent chemotherapy in the second-line setting of advanced urothelial carcinoma (UC) are unclear. We aimed to study the survival impact of single-agent compared with doublet chemotherapy as second-line chemotherapy of advanced UC. Literature was searched for studies including single-agent or doublet chemotherapy in the second-line setting after platinum-based chemotherapy. Random-effects models were used to pool trial-level data according to treatment arm, including median progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR) probability, and grade 3-4 toxicity. Univariable and multivariable analyses, including sensitivity analyses, were carried out, adjusting for the percent of patients with ECOG performance status ≥1 and hepatic metastases. Forty-six arms of trials including 1910 patients were selected: 22 arms with single agent (n = 1202) and 24 arms with doublets (n = 708). The pooled ORR with single agents was 14.2% [95% confidence interval (CI) 11.1-17.9] versus 31.9% [95% CI 27.3-36.9] with doublet chemotherapy. Pooled median PFS was 2.69 and 4.05 months, respectively. The pooled median OS was 6.98 and 8.50 months, respectively. Multivariably, the odds ratio for ORR and the pooled median difference of PFS were statistically significant (P < 0.001 and P = 0.002) whereas the median difference in OS was not (P = 0.284). When including single-agent vinflunine or taxanes only, differences were significant only for ORR (P < 0.001) favoring doublet chemotherapy. No statistically significant differences in grade 3-4 toxicity were seen between the two groups. Despite significant improvements in ORR and PFS, doublet regimens did not extend OS compared with single agents for the second-line chemotherapy of UC. Prospective trials are necessary to elucidate the role of combination chemotherapy, with or without targeted agents, in the salvage setting. Currently, improvements in this field should be pursued considering single-agent chemotherapy as the foundation for new more active combinations. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society for Medical Oncology. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Longitudinal assessment of optical quality and intraocular scattering using the double-pass instrument in normal eyes and eyes with short tear breakup time.

PubMed

Kobashi, Hidenaga; Kamiya, Kazutaka; Yanome, Kyohei; Igarashi, Akihito; Shimizu, Kimiya

2013-01-01

To assess the longitudinal changes in optical quality including intraocular scattering in normal eyes and eyes with short tear breakup time (TBUT). We prospectively examined twenty eyes of 20 healthy subjects, and age-matched twenty eyes of 20 short TBUT subjects. The modulation transfer function (MTF) cutoff frequency, the Strehl ratio, and the objective scattering index (OSI) were quantitatively assessed using an Optical Quality Analysis System. We investigated the changes in these variables measured consecutively at the initial examination, 5, and 10 seconds without blinking. We also compared these variables in eyes with short TBUT with those in normal eyes. No significant differences in the MTF cutoff frequency, Strehl ratio, or OSI were detected over a 10-second period in normal eyes. These variables also became significantly degraded even over a 5-second period in eyes with short TBUT (p<0.01). We found significant differences in these variables at 5 and 10 seconds (p<0.05), but none immediately after the blink between normal and short TBUT eyes. Optical quality including intraocular scattering deteriorated significantly with time in eyes with short TBUT, whereas we found significant differences over a 10-second period in normal eyes. Eyes with short TBUT showed greater deterioration in optical quality after the blink than normal eyes. The longitudinal assessment of optical quality may be effective in distinguishing eyes with short TBUT from normal eyes.

Predictive models of energy consumption in multi-family housing in College Station, Texas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Hikmat Hummad

Patterns of energy consumption in apartment buildings are different than those in single-family houses. Apartment buildings have different physical characteristics, and their inhabitants have different demographic attributes. This study develops models that predict energy usage in apartment buildings in College Station. This is accomplished by analyzing and identifying the predictive variables that affect energy usage, studying the consumption patterns, and creating formulas based on combinations of these variables. According to the hypotheses and the specific research context, a cross-sectional design strategy is adopted. This choice implies analyses across variations within a sample of fourplex apartments in College Station. The data available for analysis include the monthly billing data along with the physical characteristics of the building, climate data for College Station, and occupant demographic characteristics. A simple random sampling procedure is adopted. The sample size of 176 apartments is drawn from the population in such a way that every possible sample has the same chance of being selected. Statistical methods used to interpret the data include univariate analysis (mean, standard deviation, range, and distribution of data), correlation analysis, regression analysis, and ANOVA (analyses of variance). The results show there are significant differences in cooling efficiency and actual energy consumption among different building types, but there are no significant differences in heating consumption. There are no significant differences in actual energy consumption between student and non-student groups or among ethnic groups. The findings indicate that there are significant differences in actual energy consumption among marital status groups and educational level groups. The multiple regression procedures show there is a significant relationship between normalized annual consumption and the combined variables of floor area, marital status, dead band, construction material, summer thermostat setting, heating, slope, and base load, as well as a relationship between cooling slope and the combined variables of share wall, floor level, summer thermostat setting, external wall, and American household. In addition, there is a significant relationship between heating slope and the combined variables of winter thermostat setting, market value, student, and rent. The results also indicate there is a relationship between base load and the combined variables of floor area, market value, age of the building, marital status, student, and summer thermostat setting.

A History of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction at the National Football League Combine Results in Inferior Early National Football League Career Participation.

PubMed

Provencher, Matthew T; Bradley, James P; Chahla, Jorge; Sanchez, Anthony; Beaulieu-Jones, Brendin R; Arner, Justin W; Kennedy, Nicholas I; Sanchez, George; Kennedy, Mitchell I; Moatshe, Gilbert; Cinque, Mark E; LaPrade, Robert F

2018-05-19

To evaluate whether players with a history of an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) before the National Football League (NFL) Combine played or started fewer games and/or participated in fewer eligible snaps compared with NFL Combine participants without a history of knee injury or surgery. We performed a retrospective review of all players who participated in the NFL Combine between 2009 and 2015 and who had a history of an ACLR. NFL Combine participants were included if they had a previous ACLR or combined anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and nonoperatively managed medial collateral ligament injury. The number of games started, number of games played, draft number, overall draft pick, and snap percentage for each position were determined. The mean value of each outcome metric was compared between case and control players. We identified 110 players who had an ACL injury (n = 76) or a combined ACL and medial collateral ligament injury (n = 34). Players in the ACLR group had a significantly worse mean draft pick number (difference of 30.2, P = .002) and mean draft round (difference of 0.8, P = .019) versus controls. Compared with control players, players in the ACLR group started and played significantly fewer games in both season 1 (difference of 2.7 games started, P < .001; difference of 2.7 games played, P < .001) and season 2 (difference of 7.4 games started, P < .001; difference of 3.0 games played, P = .003) and had a significantly lower snap percentage in both season 1 (difference of 23.1%, P < .001) and season 2 (difference of 24.0%, P < .001). Athletes at the NFL Combine who previously underwent an ACLR had significantly lower early-career NFL player metrics, including fewer games started, fewer games played, and a lower snap percentage, than uninjured controls. Defensive linemen, defensive backs, and linebackers were the 3 most affected positions. Players with a prior ACLR and combined meniscal-chondral pathology had significantly lower numbers of games started and games played in seasons 1 and 2 and a significantly lower season 2 snap percentage. Level III, case-control study. Copyright © 2018 Arthroscopy Association of North America. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Influence of everyday bolus consistencies in different body positions on high-resolution esophageal pressure topography (HREPT) parameters.

PubMed

Hasan, Y; Go, J; Hashmi, S M; Valestin, J; Schey, R

2015-04-01

The standard protocol for esophageal manometry involves placing the patient in the supine position with head turned to left (supine head left [SHL]) while evaluating liquid bolus swallows. Routinely, semisolid or solid boluses are not evaluated. Currently, the daily American diet includes up to 40% solid or semisolid texture. Thus far, the data on the effect of different bolus on high-resolution esophageal pressure topography (HREPT) parameters are scarce. This study aims to evaluate the effect of every day bolus consistencies in different body positions on HREPT variables. HREPT was performed on healthy volunteers with a modified protocol including liquid swallows in the SHL position followed by applesauce (semisolid), cracker (solid), and marshmallow (soft solid) in three different positions (SHL, sitting, and standing). A total of 38 healthy adult subjects (22 males and 16 females, median age = 27, and mean body mass index = 25) were evaluated. The resting upper esophageal sphincter pressure was significantly different while subjects swallowed crackers, applesauce, and marshmallows in most positions compared with liquid SHL (P < 0.05). The lower esophageal sphincter, contractile front velocity, and distal contractile integral pressures did not differ in all different consistencies compared with SHL. The integrated relaxation period was significantly higher with solid bolus compared with liquid bolus only in SHL position. The intrabolus pressure was significantly different with solid and soft solid boluses in all postures compared to liquid SHL. The American diet consistency affects upper esophageal sphincter pressure and partially integrated relaxation period and intrabolus pressure in various positions. Semisolid bolus swallows do not cause substantial pressure changes and are safe for evaluation and maintaining adequate caloric intake in patients with dysphagia who cannot tolerate solids. © 2014 International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus.

Effectiveness of different compression-to-ventilation methods for cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A systematic review.

PubMed

Ashoor, Huda M; Lillie, Erin; Zarin, Wasifa; Pham, Ba'; Khan, Paul A; Nincic, Vera; Yazdi, Fatemeh; Ghassemi, Marco; Ivory, John; Cardoso, Roberta; Perkins, Gavin D; de Caen, Allan R; Tricco, Andrea C

2017-09-01

To compare the effectiveness of different compression-to-ventilation methods during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in patients with cardiac arrest. We searched MEDLINE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception until January 2016. We included experimental, quasi-experimental, and observational studies that compared different chest compression-to-ventilation ratios during CPR for all patients and assessed at least one of the following outcomes: favourable neurological outcomes, survival, return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), and quality of life. Two reviewers independently screened literature search results, abstracted data, and appraised the risk of bias. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted separately for randomised and non-randomised studies, as well as study characteristics, such as CPR provider. After screening 5703 titles and abstracts and 229 full-text articles, we included 41 studies, of which 13 were companion reports. For adults receiving bystander or dispatcher-instructed CPR, no significant differences were observed across all comparisons and outcomes. Significantly less adults receiving bystander-initiated or plus dispatcher-instructed compression-only CPR experienced favourable neurological outcomes, survival, and ROSC compared to CPR 30:2 (compression-to-ventilation) in un-adjusted analyses in a large cohort study. Evidence from emergency medical service (EMS) CPR providers showed significantly more adults receiving CPR 30:2 experiencing improved favourable neurological outcomes and survival versus those receiving CPR 15:2. Significantly more children receiving CPR 15:2 or 30:2 experienced favourable neurological outcomes, survival, and greater ROSC compared to compression-only CPR. However, for children <1 years of age, no significant differences were observed between CPR 15:2 or 30:2 and compression-only CPR. Our results demonstrated that for adults, CPR 30:2 is associated with better survival and favourable neurological outcomes when compared to CPR 15:2. For children, more patients receiving CPR with either 15:2 or 30:2 compression-to ventilation ratio experienced favourable neurological function, survival, and ROSC when compared to CO-CPR for children of all ages, but for children <1years of age, no statistically significant differences were observed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Weight versus volume in breast surgery: an observational study

PubMed Central

Parmar, Chetan; West, Malcolm; Pathak, Samir; Nelson, J; Martin, Lee

2011-01-01

Objectives The study hypothesis is to assess correlation of breast specimen weight versus volume. Design Consecutive patients undergoing breast surgery at a single tertiary referral centre during a 6-month period were included. Specimen weight was measured in grams. Direct volume measurements were performed using water displacement. Data including side of the breast, age and menstrual status of the patient were noted. Setting Knowledge of breast volume provides an objective guide in facilitating the achievements of balance in reconstructive operations. Surgeons use intraoperative weight measurements from individual breasts to calculate the breast volume assuming that weight is equal to the volume of the specimen. However, it is unclear whether weight accurately reveals the true volume of resection. Participants Forty-one patients were included in the study with 28 having bilateral surgeries, 13 having unilateral procedures giving a total of 69 breast specimens. Main outcome measures Breast specimen weight correlation to breast specimen volume. Results The mean age of the group was 42.4 years. Fifty-two specimens were from premenopausal patients and 17 were of postmenopausal. Thirty-five were left-sided. Twenty-six patients had bilateral breast reduction, two had bilateral mastectomy, nine had a unilateral mastectomy and four patients had a unilateral breast reduction. The difference between weight and volume of these breasts was 36.4 units (6.6% difference). The difference in measurement of weight and volume in premenopausal was 37.6 units compared to 32.6 units in postmenopausal women. The density was 1.07 and 1.06, respectively. This was statistically not significant. Conclusions No significant difference between volume and weight was seen in this series. Furthermore, we are unable to support the notion that premenopausal patients have a significant difference in the proportion of fatty and glandular tissue as there was little difference between the weight and the volume. An easy, clinically proper formula for the quantification of actual breast volume has yet to be derived. PMID:22140613

Weight versus volume in breast surgery: an observational study.

PubMed

Parmar, Chetan; West, Malcolm; Pathak, Samir; Nelson, J; Martin, Lee

2011-11-01

The study hypothesis is to assess correlation of breast specimen weight versus volume. Consecutive patients undergoing breast surgery at a single tertiary referral centre during a 6-month period were included. Specimen weight was measured in grams. Direct volume measurements were performed using water displacement. Data including side of the breast, age and menstrual status of the patient were noted. Knowledge of breast volume provides an objective guide in facilitating the achievements of balance in reconstructive operations. Surgeons use intraoperative weight measurements from individual breasts to calculate the breast volume assuming that weight is equal to the volume of the specimen. However, it is unclear whether weight accurately reveals the true volume of resection. Forty-one patients were included in the study with 28 having bilateral surgeries, 13 having unilateral procedures giving a total of 69 breast specimens. Breast specimen weight correlation to breast specimen volume. The mean age of the group was 42.4 years. Fifty-two specimens were from premenopausal patients and 17 were of postmenopausal. Thirty-five were left-sided. Twenty-six patients had bilateral breast reduction, two had bilateral mastectomy, nine had a unilateral mastectomy and four patients had a unilateral breast reduction. The difference between weight and volume of these breasts was 36.4 units (6.6% difference). The difference in measurement of weight and volume in premenopausal was 37.6 units compared to 32.6 units in postmenopausal women. The density was 1.07 and 1.06, respectively. This was statistically not significant. No significant difference between volume and weight was seen in this series. Furthermore, we are unable to support the notion that premenopausal patients have a significant difference in the proportion of fatty and glandular tissue as there was little difference between the weight and the volume. An easy, clinically proper formula for the quantification of actual breast volume has yet to be derived.

Construct and Compare Gene Coexpression Networks with DAPfinder and DAPview.

PubMed

Skinner, Jeff; Kotliarov, Yuri; Varma, Sudhir; Mine, Karina L; Yambartsev, Anatoly; Simon, Richard; Huyen, Yentram; Morgun, Andrey

2011-07-14

DAPfinder and DAPview are novel BRB-ArrayTools plug-ins to construct gene coexpression networks and identify significant differences in pairwise gene-gene coexpression between two phenotypes. Each significant difference in gene-gene association represents a Differentially Associated Pair (DAP). Our tools include several choices of filtering methods, gene-gene association metrics, statistical testing methods and multiple comparison adjustments. Network results are easily displayed in Cytoscape. Analyses of glioma experiments and microarray simulations demonstrate the utility of these tools. DAPfinder is a new friendly-user tool for reconstruction and comparison of biological networks.

Anatomy and aging of the amygdala and hippocampus in autism spectrum disorder: an in vivo magnetic resonance imaging study of Asperger syndrome.

PubMed

Murphy, Clodagh M; Deeley, Q; Daly, E M; Ecker, C; O'Brien, F M; Hallahan, B; Loth, E; Toal, F; Reed, S; Hales, S; Robertson, D M; Craig, M C; Mullins, D; Barker, G J; Lavender, T; Johnston, P; Murphy, K C; Murphy, D G

2012-02-01

It has been proposed that people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have abnormal morphometry and development of the amygdala and hippocampus (AH). However, previous reports are inconsistent, perhaps because they included people of different ASD diagnoses, ages, and health. We compared, using magnetic resonance imaging, the in vivo anatomy of the AH in 32 healthy individuals with Asperger syndrome (12-47 years) and 32 healthy controls who did not differ significantly in age or IQ. We measured bulk (gray + white matter) volume of the AH using manual tracing (MEASURE). We first compared the volume of AH between individuals with Asperger syndrome and controls and then investigated age-related differences. We compared differences in anatomy before, and after, correcting for whole brain size. There was no significant between group differences in whole brain volume. However, individuals with Asperger syndrome had a significantly larger raw bulk volume of total (P<0.01), right (P<0.01), and left amygdala (P<0.05); and when corrected for overall brain size, total (P<0.05), and right amygdala (P<0.01). There was a significant group difference in aging of left amygdala; controls, but not individuals with Asperger syndrome, had a significant age-related increase in volume (r = 0.486, P<0.01, and r = 0.007, P = 0.97, z = 1.995). There were no significant group differences in volume or age-related effects in hippocampus. Individuals with Asperger syndrome have significant differences from controls in bulk volume and aging of the amygdala. Copyright © 2011, International Society for Autism Research, Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Comparison of Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation and trabeculectomy for glaucoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

HaiBo, Tan; Xin, Kang; ShiHeng, Lu; Lin, Liu

2015-01-01

To compare the efficacy and safety of Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation (AGV) with trabeculectomy in the management of glaucoma patients. A comprehensive literature search (PubMed, Embase, Google, and the Cochrane library) was performed, including a systematic review with meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials comparing AGV versus trabeculectomy. Efficacy estimates were the weighted mean differences (WMDs) for the percentage intraocular pressure reduction (IOPR %) from baseline to end-point, the reduction in glaucoma medications, and the odds ratios (ORs) for complete and qualified success rates. Safety estimates were the relative risks (RRs) for adverse events. All outcomes were reported with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Statistical analysis was performed using the RevMan 5.0 software. Six controlled clinical trials were included in this meta-analysis. There was no significant difference between the AGV and trabeculectomy in the IOPR% (WMD = -3.04, 95% CI: -8.36- 2.26; P = 0.26). The pooled ORs comparing AGV with trabeculectomy were 0.46 (0.22, 0.99) for the complete success rate (P = 0.05) and 0.97 (0.78-1.20) for the quantified success rate (P = 0.76). No significant difference in the reduction in glaucoma medicines was observed (WMD = 0.24; 95% CI: -0.27-0.76; P = 0.35). AGV was found to be associated with a significantly lower frequency of all adverse events (RR = 0.71; 95%CI: 1.14-0.97; p = 0.001) than trabeculectomy, while the most common complications did not differ significantly (all p> 0.05). AGV was equivalent to trabeculectomy in reducing the IOP, the number of glaucoma medications, success rates, and rates of the most common complications. However, AGV was associated with a significantly lower frequency of overall adverse events.

A teaching intervention for reading laboratory experiments in college-level introductory chemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirk, Maria Kristine

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects that a pre-laboratory guide, conceptualized as a "scientific story grammar," has on college chemistry students' learning when they read an introductory chemistry laboratory manual and perform the experiments in the chemistry laboratory. The participants (N = 56) were students enrolled in four existing general chemistry laboratory sections taught by two instructors at a women's liberal arts college. The pre-laboratory guide consisted of eight questions about the experiment, including the purpose, chemical species, variables, chemical method, procedure, and hypothesis. The effects of the intervention were compared with those of the traditional pre-laboratory assignment for the eight chemistry experiments. Measures included quizzes, tests, chemistry achievement test, science process skills test, laboratory reports, laboratory average, and semester grade. The covariates were mathematical aptitude and prior knowledge of chemistry and science processes, on which the groups differed significantly. The study captured students' perceptions of their experience in general chemistry through a survey and interviews with eight students. The only significant differences in the treatment group's performance were in some subscores on lecture items and laboratory items on the quizzes. An apparent induction period was noted, in that significant measures occurred in mid-semester. Voluntary study with the pre-laboratory guide by control students precluded significant differences on measures given later in the semester. The groups' responses to the survey were similar. Significant instructor effects on three survey items were corroborated by the interviews. The researcher's students were more positive about their pre-laboratory tasks, enjoyed the laboratory sessions more, and were more confident about doing chemistry experiments than the laboratory instructor's groups due to differences in scaffolding by the instructors.

Comparison of Cognitive Parameters Between Bilateral and Unilateral Hippocampal Sclerosis.

PubMed

Vanli Yavuz, Ebru Nur; Bilgiç, Başar; Matur, Zeliha; Bebek, Nerses; Gürses, Candan; Gökyiğit, Ayşen; Öktem, Öget; Baykan, Betül

2016-09-01

Recent studies showed that hippocampal sclerosis (HS) patients with unilateral involvement had more diffuse cognitive impairment than expected. Therefore, we aimed to compare the cognitive profiles of bilateral HS (BHS) patients with unilateral HS (UHS) patients. Consecutive patients, diagnosed with epilepsy, who fulfilled two major magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) criteria (T1 atrophy and T2-FLAIR hyperintensity) for HS were included. Standard neuro-psychological test (NPT) battery consisted of the Turkish version of 15-word verbal memory processes test, Wechsler memory scale visual reproduction subtest, forward and backward digit span, phonemic and semantic fluency, and Stroop test were applied; and the groups with right HS, left HS, and bilateral HS were compared statistically. Ninety-one patients, completing the NPT (34 males, 57 females)-16 with BHS, 36 with right HS, and 39 with left HS-were included. Six out of 43 operated patients had BHS. There were no significant differences in education and handedness of the groups. Even though NPT performances of the BHS group were found to be poor compared to UHS subgroups, this was beyond statistical significance. Comparison of BHS with the right HS group showed a significant difference in the learning score of the Verbal Memory Processes Test, but recognition scores were found to be similar in all groups. Compared to the BHS group, both right and left HS groups revealed a significant difference in delayed recall score of the Verbal Memory Processes Test. Although there were no significant differences in the postoperative parameters of the BHS group, UHS subgroups had deficits in many postoperative parameters. Our study revealed that bilateral involvement of the hippocampi was correlated with a poor cognitive performance. Retrieval failure, rather than a total recall problem, in the memory of the patients resembles a more diffuse involvement not only limited to limbic structures.

A retrospective analysis of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for gastric cancer with peritoneal metastasis

PubMed Central

Yuan, Meiqin; Wang, Zeng; Hu, Guinv; Yang, Yunshan; Lv, Wangxia; Lu, Fangxiao; Zhong, Haijun

2016-01-01

Peritoneal metastasis (PM) is a poor prognostic factor in patients with gastric cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in patients with advanced gastric cancer with PM by retrospective analysis. A total of 54 gastric cancer patients with positive ascitic fluid cytology were included in this study: 23 patients were treated with systemic chemotherapy combined with HIPEC (HIPEC+ group) and 31 received systemic chemotherapy alone (HIPEC- group). The patients were divided into 4 categories according to the changes of ascites, namely disappear, decrease, stable and increase. The disappear + decrease rate in the HIPEC+ group was 82.60%, which was statistically significantly superior to that of the HIPEC- group (54.80%). The disappear + decrease + stable rate was 95.70% in the HIPEC+ group and 74.20% in the HIPEC- group, but the difference was not statistically significant. In 33 patients with complete survival data, including 12 from the HIPEC+ and 21 from the HIPEC- group, the median progression-free survival was 164 and 129 days, respectively, and the median overall survival (OS) was 494 and 223 days, respectively. In patients with ascites disappear/decrease/stable, the OS appeared to be better compared with that in patients with ascites increase, but the difference was not statistically significant. Further analysis revealed that patients with controlled disease (complete response + partial response + stable disease) may have a better OS compared with patients with progressive disease, with a statistically significant difference. The toxicities were well tolerated in both groups. Therefore, HIPEC was found to improve survival in advanced gastric cancer patients with PM, but the difference was not statistically significant, which may be attributed to the small number of cases. Further studies with larger samples are required to confirm our data. PMID:27446587

A meta-analysis of manual versus remote magnetic navigation for ventricular tachycardia ablation.

PubMed

Turagam, Mohit K; Atkins, Donita; Tung, Roderick; Mansour, Moussa; Ruskin, Jeremy; Cheng, Jie; Di Biase, Luigi; Natale, Andrea; Lakkireddy, Dhanunjaya

2017-09-01

There are limited studies on the safety and efficacy of remote magnetic navigation (RMN) versus manual navigation (MAN) in ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation. A comprehensive literature search was performed using the keywords VT ablation, stereotaxis, RMN and MAN in Pubmed, Ebsco, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Google scholar databases. The analysis included seven studies (one randomized, three prospective observational, and three retrospective) including 779 patients [both structural heart disease (SHD) and idiopathic VT] comparing RMN (N = 433) and MAN (N = 339) in VT ablation. The primary end point of long-term VT recurrence was significantly lower with RMN (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.44-0.85, p = 0.003) compared with MAN. Other end points of acute procedural success (OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.40-3.23, p = 0.0004) was significantly higher with RMN compared with MAN. Fluoroscopy [mean difference -10.42, 95% CI -12.7 to -8.1, p < 0.0001], procedural time [mean difference -9.79, 95% CI -19.27 to -0.3, p = 0.04] and complications (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.17-0.74, p = 0.0006) were also significantly lower in RMN when compared with MAN. In a subgroup analysis SHD, there was no significant difference in VT recurrence or acute procedural success with RMN vs. MAN. In idiopathic VT, RMN significantly increased acute procedural success with no difference in VT recurrence. The results demonstrate that RMN is safe and effective when compared with MAN in patients with both SHD and idiopathic VT undergoing catheter ablation. Further prospective studies are needed to further verify the safety and efficacy of RMN.

The role of perioperative chewing gum on gastric fluid volume and gastric pH: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Ouanes, Jean-Pierre P; Bicket, Mark C; Togioka, Brandon; Tomas, Vicente Garcia; Wu, Christopher L; Murphy, Jamie D

2015-03-01

To determine if preoperative gum chewing affects gastric pH and gastric fluid volume. Systematic review and meta-analysis. Data sources included Cochrane, PubMed, and EMBASE databases from inception to June 2012 and reference lists of known relevant articles without language restriction. Randomized controlled trials in which a treatment group that chewed gum was compared to a control group that fasted were included. Relevant data, including main outcomes of gastric fluid volume and gastric pH, were extracted. Four studies involving 287 patients were included. The presence of chewing gum was associated with small but statically significant increases in gastric fluid volume (mean difference = 0.21 mL/kg; 95% confidence interval, 0.02-0.39; P = .03) but not in gastric pH (mean difference = 0.11 mL/kg; 95% confidence interval, -0.14 to 0.36; P = .38). Gastric fluid volume and gastric pH remained unchanged in subgroup analysis by either sugar or sugarless gum type. Chewing gum in the perioperative period causes small but statically significant increases in gastric fluid volume and no change in gastric pH. The increase in gastric fluid most likely is of no clinical significance in terms of aspiration risk for the patient. Elective surgery should not necessarily be canceled or delayed in healthy patients who accidentally chew gum preoperatively. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

When things are not the same: A review of research into relations of difference.

PubMed

Ming, Siri; Stewart, Ian

2017-04-01

Responding to stimuli as same and different can be considered a critical component of a variety of language and academic repertoires. Whereas responding to "sameness" and generalized identity matching (i.e., coordination) have been studied extensively, there appears to be a significant gap in behavior analytic research and educational programs with regard to nonmatching relations or relations of difference. We review research on difference relations from a variety of domains, including comparative psychology, as well as experimental, and translational behavior analysis. We examine a range of studies, including research on the perception of difference and oddity responding, as well as investigations on establishing relational frames of distinction. We present suggestions for future research and describe potential methods for teaching skills related to relations of difference. © 2017 Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior.

LIDAR vs. GEODAS land elevation data in hurricane induced inundation modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, M.; Pietrafesa, L. J.; Bao, S.; Liu, H.; Xia, M.; Yan, T.

2007-04-01

LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and GEODAS (GEOphysical DAta System) are respectively taken as the land elevation data for a 3-D storm surge and inundation model to investigate the subsequent inundation differences. Hilton Head, South Carolina, and Croatan-Albemarle-Pamlico Estuary System (CAPES), North Carolina, are the two investigated regions. Significant inundation differences with LIDAR versus GEODAS are found in both regions. The modeled inundation area with GEODAS is larger than with LIDAR. For Category 2-3 hypothetical hurricanes, the maximum inundation difference in Hilton Head region is 67%, while the difference in the CAPES is 156%. Generally, vertical precision difference of the two databases is the major reason for the inundation difference. Recently constructed man-made structures, not included in the GEODAS, but included in the LIDAR data sets may be another contributing reason.

The impact of bullying on health care administration staff: reduced commitment beyond the influences of negative affectivity.

PubMed

Rodwell, John; Demir, Defne; Parris, Melissa; Steane, Peter; Noblet, Andrew

2012-01-01

Investigations of workplace bullying in health care settings have tended to focus on nurses or other clinical staff. However, the organizational and power structures enabling bullying in health care are present for all employees, including administrative staff. : The purpose of this study was to specifically focus on health care administration staff and examine the prevalence and consequences of workplace bullying in this occupational group. A cross-sectional study was conducted based on questionnaire data from health care administration staff who work across facilities within a medium to large health care organization in Australia. The questionnaire included measures of bullying, negative affectivity (NA), job satisfaction, organizational commitment, well-being, and psychological distress. The three hypotheses of the study were that (a) workplace bullying will be linked to negative employee outcomes, (b) individual differences on demographic factors will have an impact on these outcomes, and (c) individual differences in NA will be a significant covariate in the analyses. The hypotheses were tested using t tests and analyses of covariances. A total of 150 health care administration staff completed the questionnaire (76% response rate). Significant main effects were found for workplace bullying, with lower organizational commitment and well-being with the effect on commitment remaining over and above NA. Main effects were found for age on job satisfaction and for employment type on psychological distress. A significant interaction between bullying and employment type for psychological distress was also observed. Negative affectivity was a significant covariate for all analyses of covariance. The applications of these results include the need to consider the occupations receiving attention in health care to include administration employees, that bullying is present across health care occupations, and that some employees, particularly part-time staff, may need to be managed slightly differently to the full-time workforce.

A comparison of patient characteristics and survival in two trauma centres located in different countries.

PubMed

Templeton, J; Oakley, P A; MacKenzie, G; Cook, A L; Brand, D; Mullins, R J; Trunkey, D D

2000-09-01

The aim of the study was to compare patient characteristics and mortality in severely injured patients in two trauma centres located in different countries, allowing for differences in case-mix. It represents a direct bench-marking exercise between the trauma centres at the North Staffordshire Hospital (NSH), Stoke-on-Trent, UK and the Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU) Hospital, Portland, Oregon, USA. Patients of all ages admitted to the two hospitals during 1995 and 1996 with an Injury Severity Score >15 were included, except for those who died in the emergency departments. Twenty-three factors were studied, including the Injury Severity Score, Glasgow Coma Score, mechanism of injury and anatomical site of injury. Outcome analysis was based on mortality at discharge. The pattern of trauma differed significantly between Stoke and Portland. Patients from Stoke tended to be older, presented with a lower conscious level and a lower systolic blood pressure and were intubated less frequently before arriving at hospital. Mortality depended on similar factors in both centres, especially age, highest AIS score, systolic blood pressure and Glasgow Coma Score.The crude analysis of mortality showed a highly significant odds-ratio of 1.64 in Stoke compared with Portland. Single-factor adjustments were made for the above four factors, which had a similar influence on mortality in both centres. Adjusting for the first three factors individually did not alter the odds-ratio, which stayed in the range 1.53-1.59 and remained highly significant. Adjusting for the Glasgow Coma Score reduced the odds-ratio to 0.82 and rendered it non-significant. In a multi-factor logistic regression model incorporating all of the factors shown to influence mortality in either centre, the odds-ratio was 1.7 but was not significant. The analysis illustrates the limitations and pitfalls of making crude outcome comparisons between centres. Highly significant differences in crude mortality were rendered non-significant by case-mix adjustments, supporting the null hypothesis that the two centres were equally effective in terms of this short-term indicator of outcome. To achieve a meaningful comparison between centres, adjustments must be made for the factors which affect mortality.

Leaving the placenta in situ versus conservative and radical surgery in the treatment of placenta accreta spectrum disorders.

PubMed

Kutuk, Mehmet S; Ak, Mehmet; Ozgun, Mahmut T

2018-03-01

To compare different treatment methods in the management of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders. In a retrospective cohort study, medical records were retrieved for patients who underwent elective surgery at 24 weeks of pregnancy or more after a diagnosis of PAS disorder (creta, increta, or percreta) at a center in Turkey between May 2, 2010, and August 10, 2016. The final analysis included patients whose diagnosis was confirmed intraoperatively and for whom complete data were available. Patients were divided into three groups: group 1 included those who underwent hysterectomy without placental removal, group 2 included patients whose placenta was left in situ, and group 3 included those who underwent placental removal and conservative surgery. Among 79 included patients (33 creta, 18 increta, 28 percreta), 27 (34%) were in group 1, 15 (19%) in group 2, and 37 (47%) in group 3. Total blood loss and the amounts of blood products transfused were lowest in group 2; significant differences between groups were noted (all P ≤ 0.001). Surgical complication rates were similar between groups (4/27 [15%], 1/15 [7%], and 11/37 [30%], respectively; P=0.119). Overall uterine preservation rates were not significantly different between groups 2 and 3 (14/15 [93%] vs 33/37 [89%]; P>0.99). Leaving the placenta in situ could become the treatment of choice for PAS disorders. © 2017 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics.

Comparison of serum selenium levels among hypertensive and normotensive pregnant women.

PubMed

da Silva, Alíssia Cardoso; Martins-Costa, Sérgio Hofmeister; Valério, Edimárlei Gonsales; Lopes Ramos, José Geraldo

2017-02-01

To correlate serum selenium levels with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) in a selected population and evaluate this mineral as a possible protective factor. This case-control study included 32 normotensive, 20 hypertensive (chronic and gestational hypertension), and 38 preeclamptic pregnant women. All patients were recruited from antenatal or obstetric admissions of a tertiary hospital in Brazil. Serum selenium was measured at the time of inclusion. Patients were followed up until hospital discharge after delivery. Groups did not differ with regard to maternal age, ethnicity, educational attainment, parity, or smoking prevalence. Normotensive patients had lower body mass index and were included in the study earlier. These patients also had a higher prevalence of comorbidities other than hypertension. Continuous use of medication and a history of HDP in previous pregnancies were more common in preeclamptic patients. Serum selenium levels were not significantly different between groups, with an average of 56.4 ± 15.3 μg/L in the control group, 53.2 ± 15.2 μg/L in the hypertension group, and 53.3 ± 16.8 μg/L in the preeclampsia group (p = 0.67). Among patients with preeclampsia, 52.6% had the severe form. Serum selenium levels in these patients also did not differ significantly from those of controls (p = 0.77). Preeclampsia was associated with earlier termination of pregnancy and lower birth weight (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences across groups in other outcomes of interest. Serum selenium levels did not differ significantly between groups. Thus, we could not establish whether selenium is a protective factor against these conditions.

Ambient temperature effect on pulse rate variability as an alternative to heart rate variability in young adult.

PubMed

Shin, Hangsik

2016-12-01

Pulse rate variability (PRV) is a promising physiological and analytic technique used as a substitute for heart rate variability (HRV). PRV is measured by pulse wave from various devices including mobile and wearable devices but HRV is only measured by an electrocardiogram (ECG). The purpose of this study was to evaluate PRV and HRV at various ambient temperatures and elaborate on the interchangeability of PRV and HRV. Twenty-eight healthy young subjects were enrolled in the experiment. We prepared temperature-controlled rooms and recorded the ECG and photoplethysmography (PPG) under temperature-controlled, constant humidity conditions. The rooms were kept at 17, 25, and 38 °C as low, moderate, and high ambient temperature environments, respectively. HRV and PRV were derived from the synchronized ECG and PPG measures and they were studied in time and frequency domain analysis for PRV/HRV ratio and pulse transit time (PTT). Similarity and differences between HRV and PRV were determined by a statistical analysis. PRV/HRV ratio analysis revealed that there was a significant difference between HRV and PRV for a given ambient temperature; this was with short-term variability measures such as SDNN SDSD or RMSSD, and HF-based variables including HF, LF/HF and normalized HF. In our analysis the absolute value of PTT was not significantly influenced by temperature. Standard deviation of PTT, however, showed significant difference not only between low and moderate temperatures but also between low and high temperatures. Our results suggest that ambient temperature induces a significant difference in PRV compared to HRV and that the difference becomes greater at a higher ambient temperature.

Indoor and outdoor falls among older adult trauma patients: A comparison of patient characteristics, associated factors and outcomes.

PubMed

Chippendale, Tracy; Gentile, Patricia A; James, Melissa K; Melnic, Gloria

2017-06-01

The aim of the present study was to examine significant differences in patient characteristics, associated factors and outcomes for indoor versus outdoor falls among trauma patients. A retrospective cross-sectional study using data from the trauma registry and electronic medical records at a level 1 trauma center in the USA was carried out. People aged 55 years or older, for whom fall location could be identified (n = 712), were included in the study. Demographic information, functional status before admission, comorbid conditions, activation level, Injury Severity Score, discharge disposition and injury type were included in the comparative analyses. Associated factors for falls and fractures in each location were also examined using logistic regression. Significant differences were found in patient characteristics between indoor and outdoor fallers. Significant differences in outcomes were found related to discharge disposition and injury type. Open wounds were more common among outdoor fallers (26.5%) as compared with indoor fallers (16.3%, P = 0.002). Although disorders of joints with difficulty walking were associated with fractures among both indoor (OR 7.20, CI 2.19-23.66) and outdoor fallers (OR 5.65, CI 1.27-25.06), sex was only associated with fractures among those who fell indoors (OR 1.69 CI 1.12-2.56). Significant differences exist in characteristics of indoor and outdoor fallers, and for discharge disposition and injury type for each fall location among patients admitted for trauma care. Factors associated with fractures differ between indoor and outdoor fallers. Results can help to inform targeted primary and secondary prevention initiatives. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 905-912. © 2016 Japan Geriatrics Society.

Nonpharmacological interventions for ADHD: systematic review and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials of dietary and psychological treatments.

PubMed

Sonuga-Barke, Edmund J S; Brandeis, Daniel; Cortese, Samuele; Daley, David; Ferrin, Maite; Holtmann, Martin; Stevenson, Jim; Danckaerts, Marina; van der Oord, Saskia; Döpfner, Manfred; Dittmann, Ralf W; Simonoff, Emily; Zuddas, Alessandro; Banaschewski, Tobias; Buitelaar, Jan; Coghill, David; Hollis, Chris; Konofal, Eric; Lecendreux, Michel; Wong, Ian C K; Sergeant, Joseph

2013-03-01

Nonpharmacological treatments are available for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), although their efficacy remains uncertain. The authors undertook meta-analyses of the efficacy of dietary (restricted elimination diets, artificial food color exclusions, and free fatty acid supplementation) and psychological (cognitive training, neurofeedback, and behavioral interventions) ADHD treatments. Using a common systematic search and a rigorous coding and data extraction strategy across domains, the authors searched electronic databases to identify published randomized controlled trials that involved individuals who were diagnosed with ADHD (or who met a validated cutoff on a recognized rating scale) and that included an ADHD outcome. Fifty-four of the 2,904 nonduplicate screened records were included in the analyses. Two different analyses were performed. When the outcome measure was based on ADHD assessments by raters closest to the therapeutic setting, all dietary (standardized mean differences=0.21-0.48) and psychological (standardized mean differences=0.40-0.64) treatments produced statistically significant effects. However, when the best probably blinded assessment was employed, effects remained significant for free fatty acid supplementation (standardized mean difference=0.16) and artificial food color exclusion (standardized mean difference=0.42) but were substantially attenuated to nonsignificant levels for other treatments. Free fatty acid supplementation produced small but significant reductions in ADHD symptoms even with probably blinded assessments, although the clinical significance of these effects remains to be determined. Artificial food color exclusion produced larger effects but often in individuals selected for food sensitivities. Better evidence for efficacy from blinded assessments is required for behavioral interventions, neurofeedback, cognitive training, and restricted elimination diets before they can be supported as treatments for core ADHD symptoms.

Effects of aquaculture production noise on hearing, growth, and disease resistance of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wysocki, L.E.; Davidson, J. W.; Smith, M.E.; Frankel, A.S.; Ellison, W.T.; Mazik, P.M.; Popper, A.N.; Bebak, J.

2007-01-01

Intensive aquaculture production often utilizes equipment (e.g., aerators, air and water pumps, harvesters, blowers, filtration systems, and maintenance machinery) that increases noise levels in fish culture tanks. Consequently, chronic exposure to elevated noise levels in tanks could negatively impact cultured species. Possible effects include impairment of the auditory system, increased stress, and reduced growth rates. The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term effects of sound exposure on the hearing sensitivity, growth, and survival of cultured rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Two cohorts of rainbow trout were cultured for 8??months in replicated tanks consisting of three sound treatments: 115, 130, or 150 decibels referenced at 1 micropascal (dB re 1????Pa root mean square [RMS]) levels. Auditory evoked potential (AEP) recordings revealed no significant differences in hearing thresholds resulting from exposure to increased ambient sound levels. Although there was no evident noise-induced hearing loss, there were significant differences in hearing thresholds between the two fish cohorts examined. No statistical effect of sound treatment was found for growth rate and mortality within each fish cohort. There was no significant difference in mortality between sound treatments when fish were exposed to the pathogen Yersinia ruckeri, but there was significantly different mortality between cohorts. This study indicated that rainbow trout hearing sensitivity, growth, survival, stress, and disease susceptibility were not negatively impacted by noise levels common to recirculating aquaculture systems. These findings should not be generalized to all cultured fish species, however, because many species, including catfish and cyprinids, have much greater hearing sensitivity than rainbow trout and could be affected differently by noise. ?? 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Healthcare-seeking behaviors of older Iranian immigrants: health perceptions and definitions.

PubMed

Martin, Shadi Sahami

2009-01-01

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore how cultural differences influence the healthcare-seeking behaviors of older Iranian immigrants in the United States. Cultural differences were examined in a variety of areas, including definitions and perceptions of health, illness, and care. Using a phenomenological methodology, in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with older Iranian immigrants. The findings of this study showed that participants' definitions of health, illness, and care differ significantly from mainstream Western definitions. An understanding of these cultural differences helps explain why older Iranian immigrants may or may not seek healthcare when they need it in the United States. Recommendations for change include cultural training for medical staff and the use of cultural brokers.

Comparison of four software packages for CT lung volumetry in healthy individuals.

PubMed

Nemec, Stefan F; Molinari, Francesco; Dufresne, Valerie; Gosset, Natacha; Silva, Mario; Bankier, Alexander A

2015-06-01

To compare CT lung volumetry (CTLV) measurements provided by different software packages, and to provide normative data for lung densitometric measurements in healthy individuals. This retrospective study included 51 chest CTs of 17 volunteers (eight men and nine women; mean age, 30 ± 6 years), who underwent spirometrically monitored CT at total lung capacity (TLC), functional residual capacity (FRC), and mean inspiratory capacity (MIC). Volumetric differences assessed by four commercial software packages were compared with analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measurements and benchmarked against the threshold for acceptable variability between spirometric measurements. Mean lung density (MLD) and parenchymal heterogeneity (MLD-SD) were also compared with ANOVA. Volumetric differences ranged from 12 to 213 ml (0.20 % to 6.45 %). Although 16/18 comparisons (among four software packages at TLC, MIC, and FRC) were statistically significant (P < 0.001 to P = 0.004), only 3/18 comparisons, one at MIC and two at FRC, exceeded the spirometry variability threshold. MLD and MLD-SD significantly increased with decreasing volumes, and were significantly larger in lower compared to upper lobes (P < 0.001). Lung volumetric differences provided by different software packages are small. These differences should not be interpreted based on statistical significance alone, but together with absolute volumetric differences. • Volumetric differences, assessed by different CTLV software, are small but statistically significant. • Volumetric differences are smaller at TLC than at MIC and FRC. • Volumetric differences rarely exceed spirometric repeatability thresholds at MIC and FRC. • Differences between CTLV measurements should be interpreted based on comparison of absolute differences. • MLD increases with decreasing volumes, and is larger in lower compared to upper lobes.

An examination of the identity development of African American undergraduate engineering students attending an HBCU

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taylor, Kenneth J.

This study examined the identity development for a sample of 90 African American undergraduate engineering male and female students attending an HBCU. Using the Student Development Task and Lifestyle Assessment (SDTLA), which is based on Chickering and Reisser's identity development theory, differences in identity development were examined with respect to gender, academic classification, and grade point average. Previous research has shown the need to look beyond academic factors to understand and influence the persistence of African American engineering students. Non-cognitive factors, including identity development have proven to be influential in predicting persistence, especially for African American engineering students. Results from the analysis revealed significant means for academic classification and five of the dependent variables to include career planning peer relations, emotional autonomy, educational involvement, and establishing and clarifying purpose. Post hoc analysis confirmed significant differences for four of those dependent variables. However, the analysis failed to confirm statistical significant differences in peer relations due to academic classification. The significant decline in the mean scores for development in these four areas, as students progressed from sophomore to senior year revealed strong implications for the need to provide programming and guidance for those students. Institutions of higher education should provide more attention to the non-cognitive areas of development as a means of understanding identity development and working toward creating support systems for students.

Evaluation of postoperative anal functions using endoanal ultrasonography and anorectal manometry in children with congenital anorectal malformations.

PubMed

Wang, Zhichao; Hu, Lijun; Jin, Xianqing; Li, Xiaoqing; Xu, Lixia

2016-03-01

The aim of this study was to assess the postoperative anorectal anatomy and function in children with congenital anorectal malformations (ARM) using endoanal ultrasonography (EUS) and anorectal manometry. This study included 47 children who had undergone posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) or transperineal anorectoplasty for the repair of an ARM. Children were grouped according to symptoms of defecation disorder, including normal defecation, fecal soiling, fecal incontinence, and constipation. Ten children with no history of anal or rectal diseases served as healthy controls. A well-established scoring system was used for the evaluation of anal function and defecation disorder. EUS showed significant differences in the thickness of the interior sphincter between the ARM patients and the healthy controls (P<0.05). However, no significant difference was found in the thickness of the interior sphincters between the PSARP group and transperineal anorectoplasty group (P>0.05). Anorectal manometry showed that the balloon volumes were significantly different between the surgical group and the control group (P<0.01), and between the low defect group and the intermediate-high defect group (P=0.022). Balloon volume was significantly correlated with anal function scores (r=-0.30, P<0.05). EUS and anorectal manometry can provide objective assessment of postoperative anorectal anatomy and function in children with ARM. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of Fatigue on Driving Safety: A Comparison of Brake Reaction Times in Night Float and Postcall Physicians in Training.

PubMed

Talusan, Paul G; Long, Theodore; Halim, Andrea; Guliani, Laura; Carroll, Nicole; Reach, John

2014-12-01

Concerns about duty hour and resident safety have fostered discussion about postshift fatigue and driving impairment. We assessed how converting to a night float schedule for overnight coverage affected driving safety for trainees. Brake reaction times were measured for internal medicine and orthopaedic surgery resident volunteers after a traditional 28-hour call shift and after a night float shift. We conducted matched paired t tests of preshift and postshift reaction time means. Participants also completed the Epworth Sleepiness Scale pre- and postshift. From June to July 2013, we enrolled 58 interns and residents (28 orthopaedic surgery, 30 internal medicine). We included 24 (41%) trainees on night float rotations and 34 (59%) trainees on traditional 28-hour call shifts. For all residents on night float rotations, there was no significant difference pre- and postshift. An increase in reaction times was noted among trainees on 28-hour call rotations. This included no effect on reaction times for internal medicine trainees pre- and postshift, and an increase in reaction times for orthopaedic trainees. For both night float and traditional call groups, there were significant increases in the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Trainees on traditional 28-hour call rotations had significantly worse postshift brake reaction times, whereas trainees on night float rotations had no difference. Orthopaedic trainees had significant differences in brake reaction times after a traditional call shift.

Basic and Advanced EMS Providers Are Equally Effective in Naloxone Administration for Opioid Overdose in Northern New England.

PubMed

Gulec, Nazey; Lahey, Joseph; Suozzi, James C; Sholl, Matthew; MacLean, Charles D; Wolfson, Daniel L

2018-01-01

Overdose mortality from illicit and prescription opioids has reached epidemic proportions in the United States, especially in rural areas. Naloxone is a safe and effective agent that has been shown to successfully reverse the effects of opioid overdose in the prehospital setting. The National EMS Scope of Practice Model currently only recommends advanced life support (ALS) providers to administer naloxone; however, some individual states have expanded this scope of practice to include intranasal (IN) administration of naloxone by basic life support (BLS) providers, including the Northern New England states. This study compares the effectiveness and appropriateness of naloxone administration between BLS and ALS providers. All Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine EMS patient encounters between April 1, 2014 and December 31, 2016 where naloxone was administered were examined and 3,219 patients were identified. The proportion of successful reversals of opioid overdose, based on improvement in the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), respiratory rate (RR), and provider global assessment (GA) of response to medication was compared between BLS and ALS providers using a Chi-Squared statistic, Fisher's exact or Wilcoxon rank-sum test. There was no significant difference in the percent improvement in GCS between BLS and ALS (64% and 64% P = 0.94). There was no significant difference in the percentage of improvement in RR between BLS and ALS (45% and 48% P = 0.43). There was a significant difference in the percentage of improvement of GA between BLS and ALS (80% and 67% P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in determining appropriate cases to administer naloxone where RR < 12 and GCS < 15 between BLS and ALS (42% and 43% P = 0.94). BLS providers were as effective as ALS providers in improving patient outcome measures after naloxone administration and in identifying patients for whom administration of naloxone is appropriate. These findings support expanding the National EMS Scope of Practice Model to include BLS administration of intranasal naloxone for suspected opioid overdoses.

Assessing water source and channel type as factors affecting benthic macroinvertebrate and periphyton assemblages in the highly urbanized Santa Ana River Basin, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Burton, Carmen; Brown, Larry R.; Belitz, Kenneth

2005-01-01

The Santa Ana River basin is the largest stream system in Southern California and includes a densely populated coastal area. Extensive urbanization has altered the geomorphology and hydrology of the streams, adversely affecting aquatic communities. We studied macroinvertebrate and periphyton assemblages in relation to two categorical features of the highly engineered hydrologic system-water source and channel type. Four water sources were identified-natural, urban-impacted groundwater, urban runoff, and treated wastewater. Three channel types were identified-natural, channelized with natural bottom, and concrete-lined. Nineteen sites, covering the range of these two categorical features, were sampled in summer 2000. To minimize the effects of different substrate types among sites, artificial substrates were used for assessing macroinvertebrate and periphyton assemblages. Physical and chemical variables and metrics calculated from macroinvertebrate and periphyton assemblage data were compared among water sources and channel types using analysis of variance and multiple comparison tests. Macroinvertebrate metrics exhibiting significant (P < 0.05) differences between water sources included taxa and Ephemeroptera-Plecoptera-Trichoptera richness, relative richness and abundance of nonchironomid dipterans, orthoclads, oligochaetes, and some functional-feeding groups such as parasites and shredders. Periphyton metrics showing significant differences between water sources included blue-green algae biovolume and relative abundance of nitrogen heterotrophic, eutrophic, motile, and pollution-sensitive diatoms. The relative abundance of trichopterans, tanytarsini chironomids, noninsects, and filter feeders, as well as the relative richness and abundance of diatoms, were significantly different between channel types. Most physical variables were related to channel type, whereas chemical variables and some physical variables (e.g., discharge, velocity, and channel width) were related to water source. These associations were reflected in correlations between metrics, chemical variables, and physical variables. Significant improvements in the aquatic ecosystem of the Santa Ana River basin are possible with management actions such as conversion of concrete-lined channels to channelized streams with natural bottoms that can still maintain flood control to protect life and property.

Hamstrings to quadriceps peak torque ratios diverge between sexes with increasing isokinetic angular velocity.

PubMed

Hewett, Timothy E; Myer, Gregory D; Zazulak, Bohdanna T

2008-09-01

Our purpose was to determine if females demonstrate decreased hamstrings to quadriceps peak torque (H/Q) ratios compared to males and if H/Q ratios increase with increased isokinetic velocity in both sexes. Maturation disproportionately increases hamstrings peak torque at high velocity in males, but not females. Therefore, we hypothesised that mature females would demonstrate decreased H/Q ratios compared to males and the difference in H/Q ratio between sexes would increase as isokinetic velocity increased. Studies that analysed the H/Q ratio with gravity corrected isokinetic strength testing reported between 1967 and 2004 were included in our review and analysis. Keywords were hamstrings/quadriceps, isokinetics, peak torque and gravity corrected. Medline and Smart databases were searched combined with cross-checked bibliographic reference lists of the publications to determine studies to be included. Twenty-two studies were included with a total of 1568 subjects (1145 male, 423 female). Males demonstrated a significant correlation between H/Q ratio and isokinetic velocity (R=0.634, p<0.0001), and a significant difference in the isokinetic H/Q ratio at the lowest angular velocity (47.8+/-2.2% at 30 degrees /s) compared to the highest velocity (81.4+/-1.1% at 360 degrees /s, p<0.001). In contrast, females did not demonstrate a significant relationship between H/Q ratio and isokinetic velocity (R=0.065, p=0.77) or a change in relative hamstrings strength as the speed increased (49.5+/-8.8% at 30 degrees /s; 51.0+/-5.7% at 360 degrees /s, p=0.84). Gender differences in isokinetic H/Q ratios were not observed at slower angular velocities. However, at high knee flexion/extension angular velocities, approaching those that occur during sports activities, significant gender differences were observed in the H/Q ratio. Females, unlike males, do not increase hamstrings to quadriceps torque ratios at velocities that approach those of functional activities.

Quantitative assessment on coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) image quality: comparisons between genders and different tube voltage settings

PubMed Central

Chian, Teo Chee; Nassir, Norziana Mat; Ibrahim, Mohd Izuan; Yusof, Ahmad Khairuddin Md

2017-01-01

Background This study was carried out to quantify and compare the quantitative image quality of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) between genders as well as between different tube voltages scan protocols. Methods Fifty-five cases of CCTA were collected retrospectively and all images including reformatted axial images at systolic and diastolic phases as well as images with curved multi planar reformation (cMPR) were obtained. Quantitative image quality including signal intensity, image noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of right coronary artery (RCA), left anterior descending artery (LAD), left circumflex artery (LCx) and left main artery (LM) were quantified using Analyze 12.0 software. Results Six hundred and fifty-seven coronary arteries were evaluated. There were no significant differences in any quantitative image quality parameters between genders. 100 kilovoltage peak (kVp) scanning protocol produced images with significantly higher signal intensity compared to 120 kVp scanning protocol (P<0.001) in all coronary arteries in all types of images. Higher SNR was also observed in 100 kVp scan protocol in all coronary arteries except in LCx where 120 kVp showed better SNR than 100 kVp. Conclusions There were no significant differences in image quality of CCTA between genders and different tube voltages. Lower tube voltage (100 kVp) scanning protocol is recommended in clinical practice to reduce the radiation dose to patient. PMID:28275559

Are distinct etiologies of upper airway obstruction in mouth-breathing children associated with different cephalometric patterns?

PubMed

Franco, Letícia P; Souki, Bernardo Q; Cheib, Paula L; Abrão, Marcel; Pereira, Tatiana B J; Becker, Helena M G; Pinto, Jorge A

2015-02-01

To test the null hypothesis that mouth-breathing (MB) children by distinct obstructive tissues present a similar cephalometric pattern. The sample included 226 prepubescent children (113 MB and 113 nasal breathing (NB) controls). An ENT clinical examination, including flexible nasal endoscopy, orthodontic clinical and cephalometric examinations, was performed on the MB population. MB children were grouped into three categories, according to the obstructive tissues: 1) adenoid group (AG), 2) tonsillar group (TG), and 3) adenotonsillar group (ATG). The NB controls were matched by gender, age, sagittal dental relationship and skeletal maturation status. Lateral cephalometric radiography provided the cephalometric pattern comparisons between the MB and NB groups. MB cephalometric measurements were significantly different from those of NB children, exception in the SNB° (P=0.056). All comparisons between the three groups of MB children with the NB children showed a significant difference. Finally, even among the three groups of MB children, a significant difference was observed in the measurements of the SNB° (P<0.036), NSGn° (P<0.028) and PFH/TAFH ratio (posterior facial height/total anterior facial height) (P<0.012). The cephalometric pattern of MB and NB children was not similar. Cephalometric measurements of the MB group differed according to the etiology of upper airway obstruction. Children with isolated hypertrophy of the palatine tonsils presented with a mandible that was positioned more forward and upward compared to children obstructed only by the enlarged adenoid. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Variation in child body mass index patterns by race/ethnicity and maternal nativity status in the United States and England.

PubMed

Martinson, Melissa L; McLanahan, Sara; Brooks-Gunn, Jeanne

2015-02-01

This paper examines body mass index (BMI) trajectories among children from different race/ethnic and maternal nativity backgrounds in the United States and England from early- to middle-childhood. This study is the first to examine race/ethnic and maternal nativity differences in BMI trajectories in both countries. We use two longitudinal birth cohort studies-The Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (n = 3,285) for the United States and the Millennium Cohort Study (n = 6,700) for England to estimate trajectories in child BMI by race/ethnicity and maternal nativity status using multilevel growth models. In the United States our sample includes white, black, and Hispanic children; in England the sample includes white, black, and Asian children. We find significant race/ethnic differences in the initial BMI and BMI trajectories of children in both countries, with all non-white groups having significantly steeper BMI growth trajectories than whites. Nativity differences in BMI trajectories vary by race/ethnic group and are only statistically significantly higher for children of foreign-born blacks in England. Disparities in BMI trajectories are pervasive in the United States and England, despite lower overall BMI among English children. Future studies should consider both race/ethnicity and maternal nativity status subgroups when examining disparities in BMI in the United States and England. Differences in BMI are apparent in early childhood, which suggests that interventions targeting pre-school age children may be most effective at stemming childhood disparities in BMI.

Willingness to pay and determinants of choice for improved malaria treatment in rural Nepal.

PubMed

Morey, Edward R; Sharma, Vijaya R; Mills, Anne

2003-07-01

A logit model is used to estimate provider choice from six types by malaria patients in rural Nepal. Patient characteristics that influence choice include travel costs, income category, household size, gender, and severity of malaria. Income effects are introduced by assuming the marginal utility of money is a step function of expenditures on the numeraire. This method of incorporating income effects is ideally suited for situations when exact income data is not available. Significant provider characteristics include wait time for treatment and wait time for laboratory results. Household willingness to pay (wtp) is estimated for increasing the number of providers and for providing more sites with blood testing capabilities. Wtp estimates vary significantly across households and allow one to assess how much different households would benefit or lose under different government proposals.

Depression, anxiety and quality of life in suicide survivors: a comparison of close and distant relationships.

PubMed

Mitchell, Ann M; Sakraida, Teresa J; Kim, Yookyung; Bullian, Leann; Chiappetta, Laurel

2009-02-01

The study's purpose was to describe and compare depression, anxiety, and quality of life, by degree of relationship, between closely related and distantly related survivors (persons close to the suicide victim, or "suicide survivors"; N = 60) during the acute phase of bereavement (within 1 month of the death). The close relationship category included spouses, parents, children, and siblings, whereas the distant relationship category included in-laws, aunts/uncles, and nieces/nephews. Analysis of covariance examined differences between the two groups on the symptom measures. Results indicate that, after controlling for age and gender effects, closely related survivors had significantly higher mean levels of depression and anxiety and had lower levels of mental health quality of life. There were no statistically significant differences on the physical health quality of life subscale.

Genetic variation and willingness to participate in epidemiologic research: data from three studies.

PubMed

Bhatti, Parveen; Sigurdson, Alice J; Wang, Sophia S; Chen, Jinbo; Rothman, Nathaniel; Hartge, Patricia; Bergen, Andrew W; Landi, Maria Teresa

2005-10-01

The differences in common genetic polymorphism frequencies by willingness to participate in epidemiologic studies are unexplored, but the same threats to internal validity operate as for studies with nongenetic information. We analyzed single nucleotide polymorphism genotypes, haplotypes, and short tandem repeats among control groups from three studies with different recruitment designs that included early, late, and never questionnaire responders, one or more participation incentives, and blood or buccal DNA collection. Among 2,955 individuals, we compared 108 genotypes, 8 haplotypes, and 9 to 15 short tandem repeats by respondent type. Among our main comparisons, single nucleotide polymorphism genotype frequencies differed significantly (P < 0.05) between respondent groups in six instances, with 13 expected by chance alone. When comparing the odds of carrying a variant among the various response groups, 19 odds ratios were /=1.40, levels that might be notably different. Among the various respondent group comparisons, haplotype and short tandem repeat frequencies were not significantly different by willingness to participate. We observed little evidence to suggest that genotype differences underlie response characteristics in molecular epidemiologic studies, but a greater variety of genes should be examined, including those related to behavioral traits potentially associated with willingness to participate. To the extent possible, investigators should evaluate their own genetic data for bias in response categories.

Brain Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography Gender Differences in Tinnitus Patients.

PubMed

Shlamkovich, Nathan; Gavriel, Haim; Eviatar, Ephraim; Lorberboym, Mordechay; Aviram, Eliad

2016-10-01

Increased metabolism in the left auditory cortex has been reported in tinnitus patients. However, gender difference has not been addressed. To assess the differences in Positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) results between the genders in tinnitus patients. Retrospective cohort. Included were patients referred to our clinic between January 2011 and August 2013 who complained of tinnitus and underwent fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-PET to assess brain metabolism. Univariate and multivariate nominal logistic regressions were used to evaluate the association between upper temporal gyrus (UTG; right and left) and gender. Included were 140 patients (87 males) with an average age of 52.5 yr (median = 53.1). Bilateral tinnitus was found in 85 patients (60.7%), left sided in 30 (21.4%), and right sided in 21(15%). Increased uptake in the UTG was found in 60% of the patients on either side. Males had a statistically significant increased uptake in the UTG in those with unilateral tinnitus and in the entire population. We present the largest study reported so far on tinnitus patients who have undergone FDG-PET-CT. We found a statistically significant difference between the genders in FDG uptake by the UTG. Further investigations should be undertaken to reveal the etiologies for these differences and to assess different therapeutic protocols according to gender. American Academy of Audiology

Racial/Ethnic Differences in Cardiovascular Symptoms in Four Major Racial/Ethnic Groups of Midlife Women: A Secondary Analysis

PubMed Central

Im, Eun-Ok; Ham, Ok Kyung; Chee, Eunice; Chee, Wonshik

2015-01-01

Ethnic minority midlife women frequently do not recognize cardiovascular symptoms that they experience during the menopausal transition. Racial/ethnic differences in cardiovascular symptoms are postulated as a plausible reason for their lack of knowledge and recognition of the symptoms. The purpose of this study was to explore racial/ethnic differences in midlife women’s cardiovascular symptoms and to determine the factors related to these symptoms in each racial/ethnic group. This was a secondary analysis of the data from a larger study among 466 participants, collected from 2006 to 2011. The instruments included questions on background characteristics, health and menopausal status and the Cardiovascular Symptom Index for Midlife Women. The data were analyzed using inferential statistics, including Poisson regression and logistic regression analyses. Significant racial/ethnic differences were observed in the total numbers and total severity scores of cardiovascular symptoms (p<0.01). Non-Hispanic Asians had significantly lower total numbers and total severity scores compared to other racial/ethnic groups (p<0.05). The demographic and health factors associated with cardiovascular symptoms were somewhat different in each racial/ethnic group. Further studies are needed about possible reasons for the racial/ethnic differences and the factors associated with cardiovascular symptoms in each racial/ethnic group. PMID:25826460

Cervical cancer prevention-related knowledge and attitudes among female undergraduate students from different ethnic groups within China, a survey-based study.

PubMed

Wu, Enqi; Tiggelaar, Sarah M; Jiang, Tao; Zhao, Huanhu; Wu, Ritu; Wu, Rilige; Xu, Fangmei

2017-05-22

The purpose of this study was to understand cervical cancer prevention-related knowledge and attitudes among female undergraduate students from different ethnic groups within China. We conducted a survey among ethnically diverse female students from the Minzu University of China, in Beijing in October, 2014. Questionnaires from 493 participants aged from 16 to 26 years were included in the final database. The seven ethnic groups included in the final analysis were Han, Korean, Mongolian, Uyghur, Tibetan, Hui, and Tujia. Compared to the Han Chinese, the members of the other six ethnic groups had lower cervical cancer knowledge levels. The knowledge scores of Mongolian and Korean students were significantly lower than those of the Han Chinese. The willingness to accept cervical cancer prevention efforts also differed across different ethnic groups. After adjusting for age and place of residence, the acceptance of cervical cancer screening among the Tibetan, Uyghur, and Korean groups was significantly lower than among the Han Chinese, with different related decision-making factors in each group. Cervical cancer prevention-related public education is an urgent need in China. Extra consideration of ethnic differences should be taken into account when designing and improving new current cervical cancer prevention programs.

An evaluation of Teaching-Family (Achievement Place) group homes for juvenile offenders.

PubMed

Kirigin, K A; Braukmann, C J; Atwater, J D; Wolf, M M

1982-01-01

Juvenile crime is a serious problem for which treatment approach has been found to be reliably effective. This outcome evaluation assessed during and posttreatment effectiveness of Teaching-Family group home treatment programs for juvenile offenders. The evaluation included the original Achievement Place program, which was the prototype for the development of the Teaching-Family treatment approach, 12 replications of Achievement Place, and 9 comparison group home programs. Primary dependent measures were retrieved from court and police files and included number of alleged offenses, percentage of youths involved in those alleged offenses, and percentage of youths institutionalized. Other dependent measures were subjective ratings of effectiveness obtained from the program consumers, including the group home residents. The results showed difference during treatment favoring the Teaching-Family programs on rate of alleged criminal offenses, percentage of youths involved in those offenses, and consumer ratings of the programs. The consumer ratings provided by the youths and their school teachers were found to be inversely and significantly correlated with the reduction of criminal offenses during treatment. There were no significant differences during treatment on measures of noncriminal offenses (e.g., truancy, runaway, and curfew violations). In the posttreatment year, none of the differences between the groups was significant on any of the outcome measures. The results are discussed in terms of measurement and design issues in the evaluation of delinquency treatment programs and in relation to the evaluation; of Teaching-Family group homes by Richard Jones and his colleagues.

An evaluation of Teaching-Family (Achievement Place) group homes for juvenile offenders.

PubMed Central

Kirigin, K A; Braukmann, C J; Atwater, J D; Wolf, M M

1982-01-01

Juvenile crime is a serious problem for which treatment approach has been found to be reliably effective. This outcome evaluation assessed during and posttreatment effectiveness of Teaching-Family group home treatment programs for juvenile offenders. The evaluation included the original Achievement Place program, which was the prototype for the development of the Teaching-Family treatment approach, 12 replications of Achievement Place, and 9 comparison group home programs. Primary dependent measures were retrieved from court and police files and included number of alleged offenses, percentage of youths involved in those alleged offenses, and percentage of youths institutionalized. Other dependent measures were subjective ratings of effectiveness obtained from the program consumers, including the group home residents. The results showed difference during treatment favoring the Teaching-Family programs on rate of alleged criminal offenses, percentage of youths involved in those offenses, and consumer ratings of the programs. The consumer ratings provided by the youths and their school teachers were found to be inversely and significantly correlated with the reduction of criminal offenses during treatment. There were no significant differences during treatment on measures of noncriminal offenses (e.g., truancy, runaway, and curfew violations). In the posttreatment year, none of the differences between the groups was significant on any of the outcome measures. The results are discussed in terms of measurement and design issues in the evaluation of delinquency treatment programs and in relation to the evaluation; of Teaching-Family group homes by Richard Jones and his colleagues. PMID:7096223

Mono or bilateral inflammatory postmicrobial prostato-vesciculo-epididymitis: differences in semen parameters and reactive oxygen species production.

PubMed

La Vignera, S; Calogero, A E; Cannizzaro, M A; Vicari, E

2006-12-01

The aim of this study was to analyse possible differences in sperm characteristics (including seminal leukocyte concentration, number of spermiophagies, and sperm reactive oxygen species [ROS] production) between patients with monolateral and bilateral prostate-vesciculo-epididymitis (PVE). Seventy-eight selected consecutively enrolled patients (mean age 34 years, range 24-40) with chronic inflammatory postmicrobial PVE and 30 infertile (aged-matched) patients (control group) with inflammatory postmicrobial prostatitis underwent sperm analysis, including seminal leukocyte concentration, number of spermiophages, and ROS production. Sperm concentration and total sperm number were significantly lower in the patients with bilateral PVE than in those with monolateral PVE. The percentage of cases with oligozoospermia or hyperspermia was significantly higher among patients with bilateral PVE with than those with monolateral PVE. Although the remaining cytologic and physicochemical sperm characteristics and ROS production (both in 45% and 90% Percoll fractions) were not significantly different between the 2 PVE groups, both groups showed median and relative percentages of frequency of abnormal sperm characteristics worse than those in the control group. Although sperm abnormalities (including seminal leukocyte concentration, number of spermiophages, and ROS production) can distinguish patients with PVE from those with prostatitis alone, the abnormalities did not discriminate between unilateral and bilateral PVE. In diagnostic suspicion of PVE, didymo-epididymal and prostato-vescicular ultrasonography can help discriminate monolateral from bilateral forms of PVE, and is a useful aid in the follow-up of these patients.

Escitalopram versus placebo in the treatment of dysthymic disorder.

PubMed

Hellerstein, David J; Batchelder, Sarai T; Hyler, Steven; Arnaout, Bachaar; Toba, Christina; Benga, Ileana; Gangure, Dinu

2010-05-01

Numerous studies have assessed the acute efficacy of antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, in treating dysthymic disorder; however, escitalopram, the S-enantiomer of citalopram, has not been studied. Thirty-six outpatients with Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III-R-diagnosed dysthymic disorder, aged 23-65 years (mean±SD=44.7±11 years), were randomly assigned to double-blind escitalopram (maximum dose 20 mg/day) versus placebo for 12 weeks. Inclusion criteria included age 18-65 years and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) score≥12. We hypothesized that escitalopram would be superior to placebo in the HDRS-24 item total score at week 12. We also hypothesized the superiority of escitalopram over placebo for secondary measures, including the percentage of participants classified as responders and remitters, as well as social functioning (Social Adjustment Scale), clinical global impression-improvement, Global Assessment of Functioning Scale. Participants' baseline HDRS-24 averaged 23.4±5.9. Final HDRS-24 scores at last observation carried forward did not differ significantly between escitalopram-treated (mean±SD=10.88±5.83) and placebo-treated individuals (mean±SD=16.4±6.34) (F=2.82, degrees of freedom=1,32, P=0.10). Significant differences favoring active medication were found on the Social Adjustment Scale and the Clinical Global Impression Severity and Global Assessment of Functioning Scale, but not in the percentages of responders or remitters. A larger study sample or higher escitalopram dose may show more significant placebo-medication differences.

Lack of evidence of a beneficial effect of azathioprine in dogs treated with prednisolone for idiopathic immune-mediated hemolytic anemia: a retrospective cohort study.

PubMed

Piek, Christine J; van Spil, Willem Evert; Junius, Greet; Dekker, Aldo

2011-04-13

Azathioprine is used as an immunosuppressant in canine immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), but this potentially toxic and carcinogenic drug has not been proven to be beneficial. The aim of this study was to determine the difference in outcome and survival of dogs with idiopathic IMHA treated with a protocol that included azathioprine and prednisolone versus a protocol that included prednisolone alone. The study included 222 dogs with a hematocrit lower than 0.30 L/L and either a positive Coombs' test or spherocytosis and no evidence of diseases that could trigger IMHA. The clinical and laboratory data at the time of diagnosis and the response to therapy and survival were compared in dogs treated according to the prednisolone and azathioprine protocol (AP protocol; n = 149) and dogs treated according to the prednisolone protocol (P protocol; n = 73). At study entry, the two groups were comparable, except that thrombocyte counts were significantly lower and clinical signs had been present significantly longer in the AP protocol group. No significant difference in survival was found between the two groups: the 1-year survival was 64% (95% CI 54 - 77%) in the P protocol group and 69% (95% CI 59-80%) in the AP protocol group, respectively. Azathioprine would appear not to be beneficial as standard treatment for all cases of IMHA; however, a blinded, randomized clinical trial is needed to establish whether outcome is different with the two treatment protocols.

The effect of a social support boosting intervention on stress, coping, and social support in caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS.

PubMed

Hansell, P S; Hughes, C B; Caliandro, G; Russo, P; Budin, W C; Hartman, B; Hernandez, O C

1998-01-01

Caring for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected child is challenging and affects the entire family system. Studies have shown that social support can mitigate caregiver stress and enhance coping; however, social support may not always result in a positive outcome for the recipient. To measure caregiver stress, coping, and social support, and to test the effect of a social support boosting intervention on levels of stress, coping, and social support among caregivers of children with HIV/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). An experimental design was used with monthly social support boosting interventions implemented. The stratified randomized sample included 70 primary caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS. The sample strata were seropositive caregivers (biological parents) and seronegative caregivers (foster parents and extended family members). Study measures included the Derogatis Stress Profile, Family Crisis Oriented Personal Evaluation Scale, and the Tilden Interpersonal Relationship Inventory. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and repeated measure MANOVA. Statistically significant differences between the experimental and control groups were found on changes in the dependent variables over time when caregiver strata were included as a factor in the analysis; no statistically significant results were found when caregiver strata were combined. Univariate Ftests indicated that the level of social support for caregivers who were seronegative in the experimental group was significantly different from seronegative caregivers in the control group and seropositive caregivers in both groups. No significant treatment group differences were found for seropositive caregivers. Seronegative caregivers derived substantial benefit from the social support boosting intervention. Seronegative caregivers who acquire a child with HIV/AIDS are confronted with a complex stressful situation; the critical need to enhance their social support is achievable through the intervention tested in this study.

Photoselective vaporization of the prostate with GreenLight 120-W laser versus transurethral resection of the prostate for benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Zang, Ya-Chen; Deng, Xin-Xi; Yang, Dong-Rong; Xue, Bo-Xin; Xu, Li-Jun; Liu, Xiao-Long; Zhou, Yi-Bin; Shan, Yu-Xi

2016-02-01

The aim of this study is to assess the overall efficacy and safety of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) with GreenLight 120-W laser versus transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for treating patients of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). We performed a literature search of The Cochrane Library and the electronic databases, including Embase, Medline, and Web of Science. Manual searches were conducted of the conference proceedings, including European Association of Urology and American Urological Association (2007 to 2012). Outcomes reviewed included clinical baseline characteristics, perioperative data, complications, and postoperative functional results, such as postvoid residual (PVR), international prostate symptom score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), and maximum flow rate (Qmax). Six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were enrolled. Three hundred and forty-seven patients undergone 120-W PVP, and 350 patients were treated with TURP in the RCTs. There were no significant differences for clinical characteristics in these trials. In perioperative data, catheterization time and length of hospital stay were shorter in the PVP group. However, the operation time was shorter in the TURP group. Capsular perforation, blood transfusion, clot retention, and macroscopic hematuria were markedly less likely in PVP-treated subjects. The other complications between PVP and TURP did not demonstrate a statistic difference. There were no significant differences in QoL, PVR, IPSS, and Qmax in the 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months of postoperative follow-up. There was no significant difference at postoperation follow-up of functional outcomes including IPSS, PVR, Qmax, and QoL between the TURP-treated subjects and PVP-treated subjects. Owing to a shorter catheterization time, reduced hospital duration and less complication, PVP could be used as an alternative and a promising minimal invasive surgical procedure for the treatment of BPH.

Arthroscopic Repair of Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears With and Without Acromioplasty: Randomized Prospective Trial With 2-Year Follow-up.

PubMed

Abrams, Geoffrey D; Gupta, Anil K; Hussey, Kristen E; Tetteh, Elizabeth S; Karas, Vasili; Bach, Bernard R; Cole, Brian J; Romeo, Anthony A; Verma, Nikhil N

2014-06-01

Acromioplasty is commonly performed during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, but its effect on short-term outcomes is debated. To report the short-term clinical outcomes of patients undergoing arthroscopic repair of full-thickness rotator cuff tears with and without acromioplasty. Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2. Patients undergoing arthroscopic repair of full-thickness rotator cuff tears were randomized into acromioplasty or nonacromioplasty groups. The Simple Shoulder Test (SST), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Constant score, University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) score, and Short Form-12 (SF-12) health assessment were collected along with physical examination including range of motion and dynamometer strength testing. Intraoperative data including tear size, repair configuration, and concomitant procedures were recorded. Follow-up examination was performed at regular intervals up to 2 years. Preoperative imaging was reviewed to classify the acromial morphologic type, acromial angle, and lateral acromial angulation. A total of 114 patients were initially enrolled in the study, and 95 (83%; 43 nonacromioplasty, 52 acromioplasty) were available for a minimum 2-year follow-up. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics, including number of tendons torn, repair configuration, concomitant procedures, and acromion type and angles. Within groups, there was a significant (P < .001) improvement in all functional outcome scores from preoperatively to all follow-up time points, including 2 years, for the nonacromioplasty and acromioplasty groups (ASES score: 55.1-91.5, 48.8-89.0; Constant score: 48.3-75.0, 51.9-78.7, respectively). There were no significant differences in functional outcomes between nonacromioplasty and acromioplasty groups or between subjects with different acromial features at any time point. The results of this study demonstrate no difference in clinical outcomes after rotator cuff repair with or without acromioplasty at 2 years postoperatively. © 2014 The Author(s).

Effects of electrical stimulus composition on cardiac electrophysiology in a rodent model of electroconvulsive therapy

PubMed Central

Singh, Nagendra Madan; Sathyaprabha, T. N.; Thirthalli, Jagadisha; Andrade, Chittaranjan

2018-01-01

Background: No electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) study on humans or in animal models has so far examined whether differently composed electrical stimuli exert different cardiac electrophysiological effects at constant electrical dose. The subject is important because cardiac electrophysiological changes may provide indirect information about ECT seizure quality as modulated by stimulus composition. Materials and Methods: Adult female Wistar rats (n = 20/group) received fixed, moderately suprathreshold (18 mC) electrical stimuli. This stimulus in each of eight groups was formed by varying pulse amplitude, pulse width, pulse frequency, and stimulus duration. The electrocardiogram was recorded, and time and frequency domain variables were examined in 30 s epochs in preictal (30 s before electroconvulsive shock [ECS]), early postictal (starting 15 s after stimulation), and late postictal (5 h after ECS) periods. Alpha for statistical significance was set at P < 0.01 to adjust for multiple hypothesis testing. Results: Cardiac electrophysiological indices in the eight groups did not differ significantly at baseline. At both early and late postictal time points, almost no analysis yielded statistically significant differences between groups for four time domain variables, including heart rate and standard deviation of R-R intervals, and for six frequency domain variables, including low-frequency power, high-frequency power, and total power. Conclusions: Cardiac electrophysiological measures may not be helpful to identify differences in seizure quality that are driven by differences in the composition of electrical stimuli at constant, moderately suprathreshold electrical dose. The generalization of this conclusion to threshold electrical doses and to human contexts requires a study. PMID:29736058

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

Deschenes, Austin; Muneer, Sadid; Akbulut, Mustafa

Thermal assistance has been shown to significantly reduce the required operation power for spin torque transfer magnetic random access memory (STT-MRAM). Proposed heating methods include modified material stack compositions that result in increased self-heating or external heat sources. Here, we analyze the self-heating process of a standard perpendicular magnetic anisotropy STT-MRAM device through numerical simulations in order to understand the relative contributions of Joule, thermoelectric Peltier and Thomson, and tunneling junction heating. A 2D rotationally symmetric numerical model is used to solve the coupled electro-thermal equations including thermoelectric effects and heat absorbed or released at the tunneling junction. We comparemore » self-heating for different common passivation materials, positive and negative electrical current polarity, and different device thermal anchoring and boundaries resistance configurations. The variations considered are found to result in significant differences in maximum temperatures reached. Average increases of 3 K, 10 K, and 100 K for different passivation materials, positive and negative polarity, and different thermal anchoring configurations, respectively, are observed. Furthermore, the highest temperatures, up to 424 K, are obtained for silicon dioxide as the passivation material, positive polarity, and low thermal anchoring with thermal boundary resistance configurations. Interestingly it is also found that due to the tunneling heat, Peltier effect, device geometry, and numerous interfacial layers around the magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ), most of the heat is dissipated on the lower potential side of the magnetic junction. We have observed this asymmetry in heating and is important as thermally assisted switching requires heating of the free layer specifically and this will be significantly different for the two polarity operations, set and reset.« less

Sedatives for opiate withdrawal in newborn infants.

PubMed

Osborn, David A; Jeffery, Heather E; Cole, Michael J

2010-10-06

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) due to opiate withdrawal may result in disruption of the mother-infant relationship, sleep-wake abnormalities, feeding difficulties, weight loss and seizures. Treatments used to ameliorate symptoms and reduce morbidity include opiates, sedatives and non-pharmacological treatments. To assess the effectiveness and safety of using a sedative compared to a non-opiate control for NAS due to withdrawal from opiates, and to determine which type of sedative is most effective and safe. This update included searches of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Issue 1, 2010), MEDLINE 1966 to April 2010 and abstracts of conference proceedings. Trials enrolling infants with NAS born to mothers with an opiate dependence with > 80% follow-up and using random or quasi-random allocation to sedative or control. Control could include another sedative or non-pharmacological treatment. Each author assessed study quality and extracted data independently. Seven studies enrolling 385 patients were included. There were substantial methodological concerns for most studies including the use of quasi-random allocation methods and sizeable, largely unexplained differences in reported numbers allocated to each group.One study reported phenobarbitone compared to supportive care alone did not reduce treatment failure or time to regain birthweight, but resulted in a significant reduction in duration of supportive care (MD -162.1 min/day, 95% CI -249.2, -75.1). Comparing phenobarbitone to diazepam, meta-analysis of two studies found phenobarbitone resulted in a significant reduction in treatment failure (typical RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.24, 0.62). Comparing phenobarbitone with chlorpromazine, one study reported no significant difference in treatment failure.In infants treated with an opiate, one study reported addition of clonidine resulted in no significant difference in treatment failure, seizures or mortality. In infants treated with an opiate, one study reported addition of phenobarbitone significantly reduced the proportion of time infants had a high abstinence severity score, duration of hospitalisation and maximal daily dose of opiate. Infants with NAS due to opiate withdrawal should receive initial treatment with an opiate. Where a sedative is used, phenobarbitone should be used in preference to diazepam. In infants treated with an opiate, the addition of phenobarbitone or clonidine may reduce withdrawal severity. Further studies are needed to determine the role of sedatives in infants with NAS due to opiate withdrawal and the safety and efficacy of adding phenobarbitone or clonidine in infants treated with an opiate for NAS.

Acute Effects of Exercise Mode on Arterial Stiffness and Wave Reflection in Healthy Young Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PubMed Central

Pierce, Doris R.; Doma, Kenji; Leicht, Anthony S.

2018-01-01

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis quantified the effect of acute exercise mode on arterial stiffness and wave reflection measures including carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV), augmentation index (AIx), and heart rate corrected AIx (AIx75). Methods: Using standardized terms, database searches from inception until 2017 identified 45 studies. Eligible studies included acute aerobic and/or resistance exercise in healthy adults, pre- and post-intervention measurements or change values, and described their study design. Data from included studies were analyzed and reported in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and PRISMA guidelines. Meta-analytical data were reported via forest plots using absolute differences with 95% confidence intervals with the random effects model accounting for between-study heterogeneity. Reporting bias was assessed via funnel plots and, individual studies were evaluated for bias using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias. A modified PEDro Scale was applied to appraise methodological concerns inherent to included studies. Results: Acute aerobic exercise failed to change cf-PWV (mean difference: 0.00 ms−1 [95% confidence interval: −0.11, 0.11], p = 0.96), significantly reduced AIx (−4.54% [−7.05, −2.04], p = 0.0004) and significantly increased AIx75 (3.58% [0.56, 6.61], p = 0.02). Contrastingly, acute resistance exercise significantly increased cf-PWV (0.42 ms−1 [0.17, 0.66], p = 0.0008), did not change AIx (1.63% [−3.83, 7.09], p = 0.56), and significantly increased AIx75 (15.02% [8.71, 21.33], p < 0.00001). Significant heterogeneity was evident within all comparisons except cf-PWV following resistance exercise, and several methodological concerns including low applicability of exercise protocols and lack of control intervention were identified. Conclusions: Distinct arterial stiffness and wave reflection responses were identified following acute exercise with overall increases in both cf-PWV and AIx75 following resistance exercise potentially arising fromcardiovascular and non-cardiovascular factors that likely differ from those following aerobic exercise. Future studies should address identified methodological limitations to enhance interpretation and applicability of arterial stiffness and wave reflection indices to exercise and health. PMID:29487535

A systematic review and meta-analysis assessing adverse event profile and tolerability of nicergoline.

PubMed

Fioravanti, Mario; Nakashima, Taku; Xu, Jun; Garg, Amit

2014-07-30

To evaluate the safety profile of nicergoline compared with placebo and other active agents from published randomised controlled trials. Systematic review and meta-analysis of nicergoline compared with placebo and other active agents across various indications. MEDLINE, Medline-in-process, Cochrane, EMBASE, EMBASE alerts, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) and Cochrane Methodology Register (CMR) for all the randomised controlled trials, open-label or blinded, in adults treated with nicergoline. Studies published until August 2013 were included. 29 studies were included for data extraction. The studies included in this review were majorly from European countries and mostly in cerebrovascular disease (n=15) and dementia (n=8). The treatment withdrawals were comparatively lower in the nicergoline group as compared with the placebo group (RR=0.92; 95% CI 0.7 to 1.21) and other active comparators (RR=0.45; 95% CI 0.10 to 1.95), but the difference was non-significant. Incidence of any adverse events (AEs) was slightly higher (RR=1.05; 95% CI 0.93 to 1.2) while incidence of serious AEs was lower (RR=0.85; 95% CI 0.50 to 1.45) in the nicergoline compared with placebo group. Frequency of anxiety was significantly lower in nicergoline as compared with placebo (p=0.01). Other AEs including diarrhoea, gastric upset, dizziness and drowsiness were less frequent in the nicergoline group when compared with placebo/active drugs, but the difference was non-significant. Frequency of hypotension and hot flushes was slightly higher in the nicergoline group but the difference was non-significant. None of the studies reported any incidence of fibrosis or ergotism with nicergoline treatment. Nicergoline is an ergot derivative, but its safety profile is better than other ergot derivatives like ergotamine and ergotoxine. This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that nicergoline has a good safety profile. None of the studies included in this systematic review reported any incidence of fibrosis or ergotism with nicergoline. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

A systematic review and meta-analysis assessing adverse event profile and tolerability of nicergoline

PubMed Central

Fioravanti, Mario; Nakashima, Taku; Xu, Jun; Garg, Amit

2014-01-01

Objective To evaluate the safety profile of nicergoline compared with placebo and other active agents from published randomised controlled trials. Design Systematic review and meta-analysis of nicergoline compared with placebo and other active agents across various indications. Data sources MEDLINE, Medline-in-process, Cochrane, EMBASE, EMBASE alerts, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) and Cochrane Methodology Register (CMR) for all the randomised controlled trials, open-label or blinded, in adults treated with nicergoline. Studies published until August 2013 were included. Review method 29 studies were included for data extraction. The studies included in this review were majorly from European countries and mostly in cerebrovascular disease (n=15) and dementia (n=8). Results The treatment withdrawals were comparatively lower in the nicergoline group as compared with the placebo group (RR=0.92; 95% CI 0.7 to 1.21) and other active comparators (RR=0.45; 95% CI 0.10 to 1.95), but the difference was non-significant. Incidence of any adverse events (AEs) was slightly higher (RR=1.05; 95% CI 0.93 to 1.2) while incidence of serious AEs was lower (RR=0.85; 95% CI 0.50 to 1.45) in the nicergoline compared with placebo group. Frequency of anxiety was significantly lower in nicergoline as compared with placebo (p=0.01). Other AEs including diarrhoea, gastric upset, dizziness and drowsiness were less frequent in the nicergoline group when compared with placebo/active drugs, but the difference was non-significant. Frequency of hypotension and hot flushes was slightly higher in the nicergoline group but the difference was non-significant. None of the studies reported any incidence of fibrosis or ergotism with nicergoline treatment. Conclusions Nicergoline is an ergot derivative, but its safety profile is better than other ergot derivatives like ergotamine and ergotoxine. This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that nicergoline has a good safety profile. None of the studies included in this systematic review reported any incidence of fibrosis or ergotism with nicergoline. PMID:25079927

Demographic and Lifestyle Characteristics, but Not Apolipoprotein E Genotype, Are Associated with Intelligence among Young Chinese College Students.

PubMed

Chen, Xiao-Fen; Wei, Zichen; Wang, Tingting; Zhang, Zhen-Lian; Wang, Yiwei; Heckman, Michael G; Diehl, Nancy N; Zhang, Yun-Wu; Xu, Huaxi; Bu, Guojun

2015-01-01

Intelligence is an important human feature that strongly affects many life outcomes, including health, life-span, income, educational and occupational attainments. People at all ages differ in their intelligence but the origins of these differences are much debated. A variety of environmental and genetic factors have been reported to be associated with individual intelligence, yet their nature and contribution to intelligence differences have been controversial. To investigate the contribution of apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype, which is associated with the risk for Alzheimer's disease, as well as demographic and lifestyle characteristics, to the variation in intelligence. A total of 607 Chinese college students aged 18 to 25 years old were included in this prospective observational study. The Chinese revision of Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (the fourth edition, short version) was used to determine the intelligence level of participants. Demographic and lifestyle characteristics data were obtained from self-administered questionnaires. No significant association was found between APOE polymorphic alleles and different intelligence quotient (IQ) measures. Interestingly, a portion of demographic and lifestyle characteristics, including age, smoking and sleep quality were significantly associated with different IQ measures. Our findings indicate that demographic features and lifestyle characteristics, but not APOE genotype, are associated with intelligence measures among young Chinese college students. Thus, although APOE ε4 allele is a strong genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, it does not seem to impact intelligence at young ages.

The Effect of Metacognitive Instruction on Problem Solving Skills in Iranian Students of Health Sciences

PubMed Central

Safari, Yahya; Meskini, Habibeh

2016-01-01

Background: Learning requires application of such processes as planning, supervision, monitoring and reflection that are included in the metacognition. Studies have shown that metacognition is associated with problem solving skills. The current research was conducted to investigate the impact of metacognitive instruction on students’ problem solving skills. Methods: The study sample included 40 students studying in the second semester at Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, 2013-2014. They were selected through convenience sampling technique and were randomly assigned into two equal groups of experimental and control. For the experimental group, problem solving skills were taught through metacognitive instruction during ten two-hour sessions and for the control group, problem solving skills were taught via conventional teaching method. The instrument for data collection included problem solving inventory (Heppner, 1988), which was administered before and after instruction. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire had been previously confirmed. The collected data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, mean and standard deviation and the hypotheses were tested by t-test and ANCOVA. Results: The findings of the posttest showed that the total mean scores of problem solving skills in the experimental and control groups were 151.90 and 101.65, respectively, indicating a significant difference between them (p<0.001). This difference was also reported to be statistically significant between problem solving skills and its components, including problem solving confidence, orientation-avoidance coping style and personal control (p<0.001). No significant difference, however, was found between the students’ mean scores in terms of gender and major. Conclusion: Since metacognitive instruction has positive effects on students’ problem solving skills and is required to enhance academic achievement, metacognitive strategies are recommended to be taught to the students. PMID:26234970

The Effect of Metacognitive Instruction on Problem Solving Skills in Iranian Students of Health Sciences.

PubMed

Safari, Yahya; Meskini, Habibeh

2015-05-17

Learning requires application of such processes as planning, supervision, monitoring and reflection that are included in the metacognition. Studies have shown that metacognition is associated with problem solving skills. The current research was conducted to investigate the impact of metacognitive instruction on students' problem solving skills. The study sample included 40 students studying in the second semester at Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, 2013-2014. They were selected through convenience sampling technique and were randomly assigned into two equal groups of experimental and control. For the experimental group, problem solving skills were taught through metacognitive instruction during ten two-hour sessions and for the control group, problem solving skills were taught via conventional teaching method. The instrument for data collection included problem solving inventory (Heppner, 1988), which was administered before and after instruction. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire had been previously confirmed. The collected data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, mean and standard deviation and the hypotheses were tested by t-test and ANCOVA. The findings of the posttest showed that the total mean scores of problem solving skills in the experimental and control groups were 151.90 and 101.65, respectively, indicating a significant difference between them (p<0.001). This difference was also reported to be statistically significant between problem solving skills and its components, including problem solving confidence, orientation-avoidance coping style and personal control (p<0.001). No significant difference, however, was found between the students' mean scores in terms of gender and major. Since metacognitive instruction has positive effects on students' problem solving skills and is required to enhance academic achievement, metacognitive strategies are recommended to be taught to the students.

Post-operative pain control after tonsillectomy: dexametasone vs tramadol.

PubMed

Topal, Kubra; Aktan, Bulent; Sakat, Muhammed Sedat; Kilic, Korhan; Gozeler, Mustafa Sitki

2017-06-01

Tramadol was found to be more effective than dexamethasone in post-operative pain control, with long-lasting relief of pain. This study aimed to compare the effects of pre-operative local injections of tramadol and dexamethasone on post-operative pain, nausea and vomiting in patients who underwent tonsillectomy. Sixty patients between 3-13 years of age who were planned for tonsillectomy were included in the study. Patients were divided into three groups. Group 1 was the control group. Patients in Group 2 received 0.3 mg/kg Dexamethasone and Group 3 received 0.1 mg/kg Tramadol injection to the peritonsillary space just before the operation. Patients were evaluated for nausea, vomiting, and pain. When the control and the dexamethasone groups were compared; there were statistically significant differences in pain scores at post-operative 15 and 30 min, whereas there was no statistically significant difference in pain scores at other hours. When the control and tramadol groups were compared, there was a statistically significant difference in pain scores at all intervals. When tramadol and dexamethasone groups were compared, there was no statistically significant difference in pain scores at post-operative 15 and 30 min, 1 and 2 h, whereas there was a statistically significant difference in pain scores at post-operative 6 and 24 h.

Differences in Lateral Line Morphology between Hatchery- and Wild-Origin Steelhead

PubMed Central

Brown, Andrew D.; Sisneros, Joseph A.; Jurasin, Tyler; Nguyen, Chau; Coffin, Allison B.

2013-01-01

Despite identification of multiple factors mediating salmon survival, significant disparities in survival-to-adulthood among hatchery- versus wild-origin juveniles persist. In the present report, we explore the hypothesis that hatchery-reared juveniles might exhibit morphological defects in vulnerable mechanosensory systems prior to release from the hatchery, potentiating reduced survival after release. Juvenile steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) from two different hatcheries were compared to wild-origin juveniles on several morphological traits including lateral line structure, otolith composition (a proxy for auditory function), and brain weight. Wild juveniles were found to possess significantly more superficial lateral line neuromasts than hatchery-reared juveniles, although the number of hair cells within individual neuromasts was not significantly different across groups. Wild juveniles were also found to possess primarily normal, aragonite-containing otoliths, while hatchery-reared juveniles possessed a high proportion of crystallized (vaterite) otoliths. Finally, wild juveniles were found to have significantly larger brains than hatchery-reared juveniles. These differences together predict reduced sensitivity to biologically important hydrodynamic and acoustic signals from natural biotic (predator, prey, conspecific) and abiotic (turbulent flow, current) sources among hatchery-reared steelhead, in turn predicting reduced survival fitness after release. Physiological and behavioral studies are required to establish the functional significance of these morphological differences. PMID:23554988

Sex addiction and gambling disorder: similarities and differences.

PubMed

Farré, J M; Fernández-Aranda, F; Granero, R; Aragay, N; Mallorquí-Bague, N; Ferrer, V; More, A; Bouman, W P; Arcelus, J; Savvidou, L G; Penelo, E; Aymamí, M N; Gómez-Peña, M; Gunnard, K; Romaguera, A; Menchón, J M; Vallès, V; Jiménez-Murcia, S

2015-01-01

Recently, the DSM-5 has developed a new diagnostic category named "Substance-related and Addictive Disorders". This category includes gambling disorder (GD) as the sole behavioral addiction, but does not include sex addiction (SA). The aim of this study is to investigate whether SA should be classified more closely to other behavioral addictions, via a comparison of the personality characteristics and comorbid psychopathology of individuals with SA with those of individuals with GD, which comes under the category of addiction and related disorders. The sample included 59 patients diagnosed with SA, who were compared to 2190 individuals diagnosed with GD and to 93 healthy controls. Assessment measures included the Diagnostic Questionnaire for Pathological Gambling, the South Oaks Gambling Screen, the Symptom CheckList-90 Items-Revised and the Temperament and Character Inventory-Revised. No statistically significant differences were found between the two clinical groups, except for socio-economic status. Although statistically significant differences were found between both clinical groups and controls for all scales on the SCL-90, no differences were found between the two clinical groups. The results were different for personality characteristics: logistic regression models showed that sex addictive behavior was predicted by a higher education level and by lower scores for TCI-R novelty-seeking, harm avoidance, persistence and self-transcendence. Being employed and lower scores in cooperativeness also tended to predict the presence of sex addiction. While SA and GD share some psychopathological and personality traits that are not present in healthy controls, there are also some diagnostic-specific characteristics that differentiate between the two clinical groups. These findings may help to increase our knowledge of phenotypes existing in behavioral addictions. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

In vivo biofilm formation on different dental ceramics.

PubMed

Bremer, Felicia; Grade, Sebastian; Kohorst, Philipp; Stiesch, Meike

2011-01-01

To investigate the formation of oral biofilm on various dental ceramics in vivo. Five different ceramic materials were included: a veneering glass- ceramic, a lithium disilicate glass-ceramic, a yttrium-stabilized zirconia (Y-TZP), a hot isostatically pressed (HIP) Y-TZP ceramic, and an HIP Y-TZP ceramic with 25% alumina. Test specimens were attached to individually designed acrylic appliances; five volunteers wore these appliances for 24 hours in the maxillary arch. After intraoral exposure, the samples were removed from the appliances and the adhering biofilms vitally stained. Then, the two-dimensional surface coating and thickness of the adhering biofilm were determined by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA with the level of significance set at .05. Significant differences (P < .001) in the bacterial surface coating and in the thickness of the biofilm were found between the various ceramic materials. The lowest surface coating (19.0%) and biofilm thickness (1.9 Μm) were determined on the HIP Y-TZP ceramic; the highest mean values were identified with the lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (46.8%, 12.6 Μm). Biofilm formation on various types of dental ceramics differed significantly; in particular, zirconia exhibited low plaque accumulation. In addition to its high strength, low plaque accumulation makes zirconia a promising material for various indications (including implant abutments and telescopic crowns) that previously were met only with metal-based materials.

Uric acid in aortic dissection: A meta-analysis.

PubMed

Li, Xiaodong; Jiang, Shanshan; He, Jiaan; Li, Nan; Fan, Yichuan; Zhao, Xingzhi; Hu, Xinhua

2018-06-04

Studies on the serum uric acid levels in patients with aortic dissection have yielded conflicting results. To compare the difference in serum uric acid (SUA) levels between aortic dissection patients and controls by meta-analysis. Electronic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, CKNI, CBM, Wanfang, and VIP databases until January 31, 2018. All observational studies that investigated SUA levels in aortic dissection patients and controls were included. Weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was used to summarize the difference in SUA levels between aortic dissection and control group. A total of seven case-control studies involving 1197 patients and 1193 controls were included. Pooled analysis showed that SUA levels were significantly higher in aortic dissection patients compared with those in the controls (WMD 58.22 μmol/L; 95% CI 26.71-89.73) in a random effect model. No significant difference (WMD 9.94 μmol/L; 95% CI -17.89-37.76) was observed in SUA levels between Stanford type A and Stanford type B aortic dissection. This meta-analysis provides evidence that SUA levels are significantly higher among patients with aortic dissection than those in controls. Elevated SUA levels may contribute to the pathogenesis of aortic dissection. Further large clinical studies to investigate whether SUA levels are an independently risk factor for aortic dissection are warranted. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation products in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis].

PubMed

Golubović, Slavica; Stanković, Ivana; Ristić, Lidija; Cosić, Vladan; Dordević, Ivanka; Radović, Milan

2010-01-01

A lot of studies have dealt with the oxidative stress in pulmonary diseases, and some of them with tuberculosis as well. The aim of this study was to examine the antioxidant enzyme level (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase) and the lipid peroxidation products in patients with tuberculosis. Forty patients with tuberculosis were included in the study. The examined parameters were measured before and three weeks after the beginning of the antituberculosis treatment (group I). The control group included 40 healthy persons (group II). The superoxide dismutase level was significantly lower in group I in both measurements (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01) in relation to group II, but there were no significant changes in its level during the therapy. During the treatment, the glutation peroxidase level significantly increased (p < 0.05), and in relation to group II, its level was significantly lower in both measurements in group I (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001). The catalase level significantly increased during the treatment, but there was no significant difference in relation to group II level. There was no significant difference in relation to the lipid peroxidase products between the groups. Our study group had reduced antioxidant enzyme level and some of them showed significant improvement during the treatment. The lipid peroxidase product level was stable. In patients with tuberculosis the antioxidative status is lower and its level and possible development of the oxidative stress depend on the disease severity.

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension-A Comparison of Clinical Characteristics Between 4 Medical Centers in Different Geographic Regions of the World.

PubMed

Rosenblatt, Amir; Klein, Ainat; Roemer, Ségolène; Borruat, François-Xavier; Meira, Dália; Silva, Marta; Gökçay, Figen; Çelebisoy, Neşe; Kesler, Anat

2016-09-01

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a well-characterized syndrome, most commonly affecting obese women of childbearing age. Differences in its prevalence have been reported in various populations. The aim of this article was to determine whether differences in clinical presentation and management exist for patients with IIH between different regions the world. Retrospective database analysis of adult patients with IIH from 4 different neuro-ophthalmology clinics. The data collected included gender, age of onset, body mass index (BMI), lumbar puncture opening pressure, initial visual acuity (VA), initial visual field (VF) mean deviation (MD), pharmacological or surgical treatment, length of follow-up, final VA, and final VF MD. The study population consisted of 244 patients, with significant regional variations of female to male ratio. Overall, there was no significant difference regarding the age of diagnosis or the BMI. Acetazolamide was the first line of treatment in all groups but there was a difference between countries regarding second-line treatment, including the use of surgical interventions. Mean initial VA differed between groups but the final change in VA was the same among all the study groups. There are differences in IIH presentation, treatment, and response to therapy among different countries. International prospective studies involving multiple centers are needed to determine the potential influence of environmental and genetic factors on the development of IIH and to improve the management of this potentially blinding disorder.

29 CFR 37.54 - What are a Governor's obligations to develop and maintain a Methods of Administration?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... records and data kept by the recipient under § 37.37, including analyses by race/ethnicity, sex, age, and disability status; (B) An investigation of any significant differences identified in paragraph (A) of this... determine whether these differences appear to be caused by discrimination. This investigation must be...

Organizational Citizenship Behavior, Job Satisfaction and Commitment to School: Is There Any Significant Difference between Male and Female Teachers?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jenaabadi, Hossein; Okati, Ehsan; Sarhadi, Aliyavar

2013-01-01

This research investigated the gender differences in job satisfaction, organizational commitment and organizational citizenship behavior in sample included 200 male and 200 female teachers and 80 male managers in boy elementary schools in Zahedan. Data was collected by means of questionnaires and was analyzed through Factorial Analysis of…

The Differential Victimization Associated With Depression and Anxiety in Cross-Cultural Perspective: A Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Yuchang, Jin; Junyi, Li; Junxiu, An; Jing, Wu; Mingcheng, He

2017-01-01

Traditional bullying and cyberbullying have become serious worldwide issues. The meta-analysis in this article took a cross-cultural perspective to explore whether there were any differences between the effects of cyber victimization and traditional victimization on the presence of depression and anxiety in children and adolescents and to examine the effects of moderators in explaining these differences/similarities. Fifty-six empirical studies (generating 148 independent samples) were included with a total sample size of 214,819 participants. The results indicated that the effects of cyber victimization and the subtypes of traditional victimization on anxiety were significantly different, and there was a marginally significant difference for depression. The moderating effects of country of origin were found to be significant for depression, with the mean effect size in North America being significantly higher than in China and Europe, which suggested that culture was an important factor. The moderating effects of age were also found to be significant for the relationships between traditional victimization and depression, traditional victimization and anxiety, cyber victimization and depression, and cyber victimization and anxiety. In addition, the effect size for cyber victimization and depression has increased in more recent publication years.

Racial/ethnic differences in correlates of psychological distress among five Asian-American subgroups and non-Hispanic Whites.

PubMed

Park, Hyunjeong; Choi, Eunsuk; Wenzel, Jennifer A

2018-05-29

Despite their vastly different historical backgrounds, unique languages and variable pre- and post-immigration experiences, Asian-Americans are considered to share stressors surrounding immigration, but there is a gap in describing manifestations of possible mental distress. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore and compare differences in factors associated with psychological distress among Asian subgroups including Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, and non-Hispanic Whites. Using a cross-sectional study design, California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) 2011/2012 data were analyzed. The sample consisted of 29,142 participants: 25,645 non-Hispanic Whites, 3497 non-Hispanic Asian-Americans, 1156 Chinese, 471 Filipinos, 864 Vietnamese, 704 Koreans, and 302 Japanese. Sociodemographic characteristics included gender, age group, marital status, education, poverty level, working status, health insurance, level of acculturation, social cohesion, neighborhood safety, and civic engagement. Physical health status included disability and chronic illness. Psychological distress was evaluated using the Kessler 6 (K6) scale. Results showed that psychological distress levels ranged between 1.96 and 4.52 (p < .05) out of 24 and associated factors were significantly different among the five Asian subgroups and non-Hispanic Whites. The current study highlights the differences in characteristics of psychological distress among Asian subgroups. It underscores the significance of understanding individualized cultural and historical background in each Asian subgroup and subsequently developing and applying appropriate interventions for those groups. In addition, different influencing factors should be applied to assess and prioritize the needs of Asian subgroups to improve psychological distress. The study also warrants further investigation and careful description of each Asian subgroups.

INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT LEVELS OF SPORTS ACTIVITIES ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE AFTER THE RECONSTRUCTION OF ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT.

PubMed

Ninković, Srđan; Avramov, Snežana; Harhaji, Vladimir; Obradović, Mirko; Vranješ, Miodrag; Milankov, Miroslav

2015-01-01

The goal of this study was to examine the nature and presence of influence of different levels of sports activity on the life quality of the patients a year after the reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament. The study included 185 patients operated at the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology of the Clinical Centre of Vojvodina, who were followed for twelve months. Data were collected using the modified Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score questionnaire which included the Lysholm scale. This study included 146 male and 39 female subjects. The reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament was equally successful in both gender groups. In relation to different types of sports activity, there were no differences in the overall life quality measured by the questionnaire and its subscales, regardless of the level (professional or recreational). However, regarding the level of sports activities, there were differences among the subjects engaged in sports activities at the national level as compared with those going in for sports activities at the recreational level, and particularly in comparison with physically inactive population. A significant correlation was not found by examining the aforementioned relationship between sports activities. This study has shown that the overall life quality a year after the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament does not differ in relation to either the gender of the subjects or the type of sports activity, while the level of sports activity does have some influence on the quality of life. Professional athletes have proved to train significantly more intensively after this reconstruction than those going in for sports recreationally.

The effect of acetazolamide on different ocular vascular beds.

PubMed

Haustein, Michael; Spoerl, Eberhard; Boehm, Andreas G

2013-05-01

To assess the effect of acetazolamide (AZ) on different ocular vascular beds. In a prospective study, 32 healthy volunteers (16 male, 16 female) with a mean age of 23.9 ± 3.3 years (20-39 years) were included. Before and after intravenous administration of 1,000 mg AZ (single dose), ocular microcirculation parameters were measured every 20 min for 2 h. Retinal vessel diameters (VD) were measured by the retina vessel analyzer, blood flow (BF) in the neuroretinal rim by the laser doppler flowmeter according to Riva, and the parapapillary retinal BF by the scanning laser Doppler flowmeter. Additionally, the Langham ocular blood flow system was used to determine the ocular pulse amplitude (OPA) and the pulsatile ocular blood flow (pOBF). The measurements were correlated with systemic blood pressure (BP), ocular perfusion pressure (OPP), capillary base excess parameters and serum AZ levels. Arterial and venous VD were significantly increased by about 4-5% each. Papillary BF increased significantly about 40%. Parapapillary retinal flow dropped significantly about 19% (120 min). OPA and pOBF showed no statistically significant changes. BP showed no significant changes, and OPP was significantly increased. There were no correlations with pH or systemic perfusion parameters. AZ leads to a dilatation of retinal VD, to an increase of BF in the optic nerve head, and to a decrease of parapapillary retinal BF. The different BF changes in different vascular beds might be due to different regulatory mechanisms, steal effects, or different distributions of the carbonic anhydrase.

Evaluating wave-current interaction in an urban estuary and flooding implications for coastal communities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cifuentes-Lorenzen, A.; O'Donnell, J.; Howard-Strobel, M. M.; Fake, T.; McCardell, G.

2016-12-01

Accurate hydrodynamic-wave coupled coastal circulation models aid the prediction of storm impacts, particularly in areas where data is absent, and can inform mitigation options. They are essential everywhere to account for the effects of climate change. Here, the Finite Volume Community Ocean Model (FVCOM) was used to estimate the residual circulation inside a small urban estuary, Long Island Sound, during three severe weather events of different magnitude (i.e. 1/5, 1/25 and 1/50 year events). The effect of including wave coupling using a log-layer bottom boundary and the bottom wave-current coupling, following the approach of Madsen (1994) on the simulated residual circulation was assessed. Significant differences in the solutions were constrained to the near surface (s>-0.3) region. No significant difference in the depth-averaged residual circulation was detected. When the Madsen (1994) bottom boundary layer model for wave-current interaction was employed, differences in residual circulation resulted. The bottom wave-current interaction also plays an important role in the wave dynamics. Significant wave heights along the northern Connecticut shoreline were enhanced by up to 15% when the bottom wave-current interaction was included in the simulations. The wave-induced bottom drag enhancement has a substantial effect on tides in the Sound, possibly because it is nearly resonant at semidiurnal frequencies. This wave-current interaction current leads to severe tidal dampening ( 40% amplitude reduction) at the Western end of the estuary in the modeled sea surface displacement. The potential magnitude of these effects means that wave current interaction should be included and carefully evaluated in models of estuaries that are useful.

[Approaches to medical training among physicians who teach; analysis of two different educational strategies].

PubMed

Loría-Castellanos, Jorge; Rivera-lbarra, Doris Beatriz; Márquez-Avila, Guadalupe

2009-01-01

Compare the outreach of a promotional educational strategy that focuses on active participation and compare it with a more traditional approach to medical training. A quasi-experimental design was approved by the research committee. We compared the outreach of two different approaches to medical training. We administered a validated instrument that included 72 items that analyze statements used to measure educational tasks in the form of duplets through 3 indicators. A group that included seven physicians that were actively participating in teaching activities was stratified according to teaching approaches. One of the approaches was a traditional one and the other included a promotional strategy aimed at increasing participation. All participants signed informed consent before answering the research instruments. Statistical analysis was done using non-parametric tests. Mann-Whitney results did not show differences among the group in the preliminary analysis. A second analysis with the same test after the interventions found significant differences (p d" 0.018) in favor of those subjects that had participated in the promotional approach mainly in the indicator measuring "consequence". The Wilcoxon test showed that all participants in the promotional approach increased significantly (pd" 0.018) in 3 main indicators as compared with the control group. A promotional strategy aimed at increasing physician participation constitutes a more profitable approach when compared with traditional teaching methods.

The quality of sperm preparation medium affects the motility, viability, and DNA integrity of human spermatozoa.

PubMed

Anbari, Fatemeh; Halvaei, Iman; Nabi, Ali; Ghazali, Shahin; Khalili, Mohammad Ali; Johansson, Lars

2016-01-01

The goal was to compare the effects of three different sperm preparation media on sperm motility, viability, and DNA integrity of semen samples from normozoospermic men. A total of 15 normozoospermic males were included in the study. The semen analysis (SA) was performed in accordance with the WHO guidelines (2010). After SA, each sample was divided into three aliquots, and swim-up was performed with three different sperm preparation media (Sperm Preparation Media, Origio, Denmark; Ham's F10, Biochrome, Berlin, Germany; and VitaSperm™, Innovative Biotech, Iran). Sperm motility, viability, and DNA fragmentation were evaluated at 0, 1, 2, and 24 h after swim-up. There were no significant differences, at any time intervals, in the total sperm motility between the different sperm preparation media. However, the rate of progressive motility was significantly higher in spermatozoa prepared using the media from Origio in comparison with VitaSperm™ ( P = 0.03), whereas no significant difference was found against Ham's F10 medium. No significant differences in sperm viability were seen between the media products. However, 1 h after swim-up, the extent of sperm DNA fragmentation was lower in the medium from Origio versus VitaSperm™ ( P = 0.02). The data showed that the quality of medium for preparation of semen samples from normozoospermic men significantly affects the performance of spermatozoa in assisted conception programs.

Association of ABO blood groups and Rh factor with retinal and choroidal thickness.

PubMed

Teberik, Kuddusi; Eski, Mehmet Tahir

2018-06-01

To evaluate if ABO blood group and Rh factor have an effect on retinal and choroidal thickness. This study was designed prospectively. Retinal nerve fiber layer, retinal, and choroidal thicknesses were measured with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Retinal and choroidal thickness measurements (one subfoveal, three temporal, and three nasal) were obtained at 500-μm intervals up to 1500 μm with the caliper system. In this study, 109 male and 151 female, 260 individuals in total were included. There were 125 subjects in group A, 29 in group B, 34 in group AB, and 72 in group O. Rh factor was positive in 194 subjects and negative in 66. There was no significant difference between the groups regarding age (p = 0.667). The groups did not show any statistical difference in retinal nerve fiber layer thickness. There was significant difference found for mean retinal thickness at temporal 1000 μm when four groups were compared (p = 0.037). No statistically significant difference was detected for the remaining retinal and choroidal sectoral regions. The groups did not statistically significantly differ concerning Rh factor (p > 0.05). Although we found a significant difference in retinal thickness in the temporal retina between group B with group A and group O, we suggest that both blood group and Rh factor have no effect on retinal and choroidal thickness.

Effects of urinary incontinence subtypes on women's quality of life (including sexual life) and psychosocial state.

PubMed

Asoglu, Mehmet Resit; Selcuk, Selcuk; Cam, Cetin; Cogendez, Ebru; Karateke, Ates

2014-05-01

Our aim was to investigate the effects of urinary incontinence subtypes on women's quality of life (including sexual life) and psychosocial state. The patients, who applied to our clinic from March 2011 to August 2011, were identified and stratified into three groups: those with stress incontinence proved urodynamically (USI), those with urge incontinence (UI), and those with mixed incontinence urge incontinence (UI) proved by urodynamic and clinic evaluation. Scores on the Beck anxiety inventory (BAI), pelvic organ prolapse/urinary incontinence sexual questionnaire (PISQ-12), urogenital distress inventory (UDI-6), and incontinence impact questionnaire (IIQ-7) were compared between the urinary incontinence subtypes. According to urodynamic and clinical examination of 111 women with urinary incontinence, 59 (53%) had USI, 35 (32%) had UI, and 17 (15%) had MI. BAI-scores significantly differed between the USI and UI groups (p=0.030) and between the USI and MI groups (p=0.011) not between the UI and MI groups (p=0.597). UDI-6 scores did not significantly differ between the three groups (p=0.845). IIQ-7 scores significantly differed between the USI and MI groups (p=0.003) and between the UI and MI groups (p=0.006) but not between the USI and UI groups. Patients with USI had significantly lower PISQ-12 scores than those with UI (p=0.015). These differences in the effects of incontinence subtypes should be kept in mind in the evaluation of patients with urinary incontinence. Psychiatric assessment may improve the management of incontinence in women, especially UI and MI. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Scapular positioning and motor control in children and adults: a laboratory study using clinical measures.

PubMed

Struyf, Filip; Nijs, Jo; Horsten, Stijn; Mottram, Sarah; Truijen, Steven; Meeusen, Romain

2011-04-01

The scapular muscular system is the major determinant of scapular positioning. In addition, strength and muscular endurance develops from childhood through adolescence. It is not known whether differences in scapular positioning and motor control between adults and children may exist. Ninety-two shoulders of 46 adults (mean = 39.4; 18-86 years; SD = 22.5), and 116 shoulders of 59 children (mean = 11.6; 6-17 years; SD = 3.5), were included in the study. Scapular positioning data were collected using a clinical assessment protocol including visual observation of titling and winging, measurement of forward shoulder posture, measurement of scapular upward rotation, and the Kinetic Medial Rotation Test (KMRT). The observation protocol for scapular winging and tilting did not show significant differences between adults and children. After controlling for height, forward shoulder posture (relaxed (0.28 cm/cm (0.06) vs. 0.31 cm/cm (0.07) and retracted (0.15 cm/cm (0.05) vs. 0.20 cm/cm (0.06)) were significantly smaller in children than in adults (P < 0.01). In addition, children showed greater scapular upward rotation (18.6°; SD 9.6°) than adults (14.5°; SD 10.9°) at 90° shoulder abduction. No significant differences were seen between children (19% positive test) and adults (24% positive test) using the KMRT. Children and adults show significant but small differences in scapular upward rotation and forward shoulder posture. These data provide useful reference values using a clinical protocol. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Vedolizumab Compared with Certolizumab in the Therapy of Crohn Disease: A Systematic Review and Indirect Comparison.

PubMed

Kawalec, Paweł; Moćko, Pawel; Pilc, Andrzej; Radziwon-Zalewska, Maria; Malinowska-Lipień, Iwona

2016-08-01

The increasing prevalence of Crohn disease (CD) underscores the need to identify new effective drugs, which is particularly important for patients who do not respond or do not tolerate standard biologic therapies. The purpose of this analysis was to compare the efficacy and safety of vedolizumab and certolizumab pegol in patients with active moderate to severe CD. This analysis was prepared according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A systematic literature search of Medline (PubMed), Embase, and the Cochrane Library was conducted through March 5, 2016. Studies included were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that enrolled patients treated for CD with vedolizumab or certolizumab pegol. All studies were critically appraised; indirect comparison was performed with the Bucher method. Eight RCTs were identified, and four were homogeneous enough to be included in the indirect comparison of the induction phase of treatment. No statistically significant differences were found in clinical response (relative risk [RR] 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.81-1.88) or remission (RR 1.35, 95% CI 0.89-2.07) between vedolizumab and certolizumab pegol in the overall population. Similar nonstatistically significant differences in response and remission were noted in a subgroup analysis of anti-tumor necrosis factor-naive patients (RR 1.10, 95% CI 0.72-1.66 and RR 1.98, 95% CI 0.95-4.11, respectively). In addition, there were no statistically significant differences in safety profiles. This indirect comparison analysis demonstrated no statistically significant differences in efficacy and safety between vedolizumab and certolizumab pegol. © 2016 Pharmacotherapy Publications, Inc.

Substance Use and Mental Health Stigma in Veterans With Co-Occurring Disorders.

PubMed

Harnish, Autumn; Corrigan, Patrick; Byrne, Thomas; Pinals, Debra A; Rodrigues, Stephanie; Smelson, David

2016-01-01

This pilot study examined whether substance use or mental illness was more stigmatizing among individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse problems. This study included 48 individuals with co-occurring substance use and mental health problems enrolled in a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services funded treatment program. Subjects received a baseline assessment that included addiction, mental health, and stigma measures. The sample consisted primarily of White males with an average age of 38 years. Substance abuse was found to be more stigmatizing than mental illness, F(1, 47) = 14.213, p < .001, and stigma varied across four different levels of stigma (Aware, Agree, Apply, and Harm), F(2.099, 98.675) = 117.883, p < .001. The interaction between type and level of stigma was also significant, F(2.41, 113.284) = 20.250, p < .001, indicating that differences in reported stigma between types varied across levels of stigma. Post hoc tests found a significant difference between all levels of stigma except for the comparison between Apply and Harm. Reported stigma was significantly higher for substance abuse than mental illness at the Aware and Agree levels. In addition, pairwise comparisons found significant differences between all levels of stigma with the exception of the comparison between Apply and Harm, indicating a pattern whereby reported stigma generally decreased from the first level (Aware stage) to subsequent levels. These results have important implications for treatment, suggesting the need to incorporate anti-stigma interventions for individuals with co-occurring disorders with a greater focus on substance abuse.

Secular changes in body size and body composition in schoolchildren from La Plata City (Argentina).

PubMed

Guimarey, Luis Manuel; Castro, Luis Eduardo; Torres, María Fernanda; Cesani, María Florencia; Luis, María Antonia; Quintero, Fabián Aníbal; Oyhenart, Evelia Edith

2014-01-01

To analyze the secular changes in body size and composition of two cohorts of children from La Plata City, Argentina, with a 35-year follow-up. subjects and methods: Cohort 1 (C1) was measured in 1969-1970 and included 1772 children (889 boys, 883 girls), and Cohort 2 (C2), measured in 2004-2005, included 1059 children (542 boys, 517 girls). Both cohorts were obtained from matching geographical areas and comprised children from 4 to 12 years. Body weight (W); Height (H); Upper arm circumference (UAC); Tricipital (TS) and Subscapular skinfolds (SS) were measured, and Body Mass Index (BMI) and muscle (UMA) and fat (AFA) brachial areas were calculated. Prevalence of overweight and obesity was estimated by IOTF. To compare C1-C2 we used a generalized linear model with log-transformed variables, and chi square test. There were significant and positive differences between C2-C1 in W, UAC, SS, TS, and AFA. In contrast, H was not significantly different and UMA was significantly different but with negative values. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 14.5% and 3.8% in C1, and 17.0% and 6.8% in C2. Differences between cohorts were significant for obesity. The shifts observed for soft tissues--positive trend for fat and negative for muscle area--occurring without changes in height lead us to suppose that in these three decades, La Plata's population has experienced deterioration in living conditions and important changes in their lifestyle, such as an increased consumption of energy-dense foods and sedentary habits.

DNA methylation analysis reveals distinct methylation signatures in pediatric germ cell tumors.

PubMed

Amatruda, James F; Ross, Julie A; Christensen, Brock; Fustino, Nicholas J; Chen, Kenneth S; Hooten, Anthony J; Nelson, Heather; Kuriger, Jacquelyn K; Rakheja, Dinesh; Frazier, A Lindsay; Poynter, Jenny N

2013-06-27

Aberrant DNA methylation is a prominent feature of many cancers, and may be especially relevant in germ cell tumors (GCTs) due to the extensive epigenetic reprogramming that occurs in the germ line during normal development. We used the Illumina GoldenGate Cancer Methylation Panel to compare DNA methylation in the three main histologic subtypes of pediatric GCTs (germinoma, teratoma and yolk sac tumor (YST); N = 51) and used recursively partitioned mixture models (RPMM) to test associations between methylation pattern and tumor and demographic characteristics. We identified genes and pathways that were differentially methylated using generalized linear models and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. We also measured global DNA methylation at LINE1 elements and evaluated methylation at selected imprinted loci using pyrosequencing. Methylation patterns differed by tumor histology, with 18/19 YSTs forming a distinct methylation class. Four pathways showed significant enrichment for YSTs, including a human embryonic stem cell pluripotency pathway. We identified 190 CpG loci with significant methylation differences in mature and immature teratomas (q < 0.05), including a number of CpGs in stem cell and pluripotency-related pathways. Both YST and germinoma showed significantly lower methylation at LINE1 elements compared with normal adjacent tissue while there was no difference between teratoma (mature and immature) and normal tissue. DNA methylation at imprinted loci differed significantly by tumor histology and location. Understanding methylation patterns may identify the developmental stage at which the GCT arose and the at-risk period when environmental exposures could be most harmful. Further, identification of relevant genetic pathways could lead to the development of new targets for therapy.

Comparisons of the efficacy of alpha glucosidase inhibitors on type 2 diabetes patients between Asian and Caucasian.

PubMed

Cai, Xiaoling; Han, Xueyao; Luo, Yingying; Ji, Linong

2013-01-01

To compare the efficacy of glycemic control and insulin secretion of alpha glucosidase inhibitors (AGI) on type 2 diabetes patients between Asian and Caucasian. The MEDLINE®, EMBASE®, CENTRAL were searched and qualified studies in Asian and Caucasian population comparing AGI treatment with placebo or other oral anti-diabetic drugs in type 2 diabetic patients were included. Totally 58 qualified studies were included. When AGI treatment was compared with placebo, a significant difference in HbA1c decline from baseline favoring AGI treatment was found in Asian (weighted mean difference (WMD), -0.50%; 95% CI, -0.66% to -0.34%) and in Caucasian a significant difference in HbA1c decline favoring AGI treatment was also found (WMD, -0.68%; 95% CI, -0.76% to -0.60%). In Asian, fasting plasma glucose was reduced with AGI treatment compared with placebo (WMD, -0.53 mmol/L; 95% CI, -0.91 to -0.14 mmol/L) and in Caucasian there was also a significant difference in FPG changes favoring AGI therapy (WMD, -0.88 mmol/L; 95% CI, -1.00 to -0.77 mmol/L). Studies in Asian showed a significant difference in fasting insulin changes favoring AGI treatment (WMD, -0.78 uU/ml; 95% CI, -0.96 to -0.59 uU/ml). While in Caucasian fasting insulin was decreased without significance with AGI treatment (WMD-1.24 uU/ml; 95% CI, -2.51 to 0.04 uU/ml). Body weight was decreased with AGI treatment in Asian (WMD, -1.00 kg; 95% CI, -1.69 to -0.31 kg) and was also decreased with AGI treatment in Caucasian (WMD, -0.73 kg; 95% CI, -1.13 to -0.33 kg). According to results from this meta-analysis, the efficacy in glucose lowering, body weight reduction and insulin secretion decreasing of AGI treatment in Asian were comparable with those in Caucasian.

Energy expenditure and intake during puberty in healthy nonobese adolescents: a systematic review.

PubMed

Cheng, Hoi Lun; Amatoury, Mazen; Steinbeck, Katharine

2016-10-01

Puberty is a time of rapid growth and changing energy requirements and is a risk period for obesity. There is little high-quality evidence on the pubertal alterations of energy expenditure and intake, and this has limited our understanding of energy balance during this important life stage. The purpose of this study was to summarize existing evidence on pubertal energy expenditure and intake in healthy nonobese adolescents. Studies were identified through CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases up to August 2015. Articles presenting objectively measured data for basal or resting metabolic rate (BMR/RMR), total daily energy expenditure (TDEE), and/or energy intake (EI) for ≥2 categories of puberty were included. Relevant data adjusted for fat-free mass (FFM) also were extracted. Data were dichotomized into prepubertal and pubertal groups and compared through the use of standardized mean differences (SMDs). Heterogeneous study methodologies precluded meta-analysis. The search netted 6770 articles, with 12 included for review. From these, 6 of 9 studies supported significantly higher absolute BMR/RMR during puberty (SMD: 1.10-5.93), and all of the studies favored significantly higher absolute TDEE during puberty (SMD: 0.46-9.55). These corresponded to a 12% difference and an 18% difference in absolute BMR/RMR and TDEE, respectively. Results adjusted for FFM were equivocal, with 3 studies favoring higher (1 significantly) and 3 favoring significantly lower adjusted BMR/RMR during puberty. Only 1 study reported EI, showing 41% and 25% greater absolute intakes in pubertal males and females, respectively. These differences were not significant after adjustment for FFM. Reasonably consistent evidence exists to support higher absolute BMR/RMR and TDEE in pubertal than in prepubertal adolescents. Differences are largely accounted for by FFM, among other potential factors such as growth- and puberty-related hormones. This review argues for further research into hormonal influences on pubertal energy balance and subsequent effects on obesity risk. © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

Shear-wave elastography for breast masses: local shear wave speed (m/sec) versus Young modulus (kPa).

PubMed

Youk, Ji Hyun; Son, Eun Ju; Park, Ah Young; Kim, Jeong-Ah

2014-01-01

To evaluate and compare the performance of shear-wave elastography (SWE) for breast masses using the local shear wave speed (m/sec) vs. Young modulus (kPa). A total of 130 breast lesions in 123 women who underwent SWE before ultrasound- guided core needle biopsy or surgical excision were included. With the region-of-interest placed over the stiffest areas of the lesion on SWE, the quantitative mean, maximum, and standard deviation (SD) of the elasticity values were measured in kPa and m/sec for each lesion. The SD was also measured with the region-of-interest including the whole breast lesion (wSD). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity of each elasticity value measured in kPa and m/sec were compared. Of the 130 lesions, 49 (37.7%) were malignant and 81 (62.3%) were benign. The AUCs for the mean, maximum, and SD of the elasticity values using kPa and m/sec did not differ significantly: mean, 0.974 vs. 0.974; maximum, 0.960 vs. 0.976; SD, 0.916 vs. 0.916. However, the AUC for wSD showed a significant difference: 0.964 (kPa) vs. 0.960 (m/sec) (P=0.036). There was no significant difference in the sensitivity and specificity of the mean, maximum, and wSD of the elasticity values. However, the specificity of the SD was significantly different between the two different measurements: 95.1% (kPa) vs. 87.7% (m/sec) (P=0.031). The quantitative elasticity values measured in kPa and m/sec on SWE showed good diagnostic performance. The specificity of the SD and AUC of the wSD measured in kPa were significantly higher than those measured in m/sec.

Neonatal outcome and congenital malformations in children born after ICSI with testicular or epididymal sperm: a controlled national cohort study.

PubMed

Fedder, J; Loft, A; Parner, E T; Rasmussen, S; Pinborg, A

2013-01-01

Does neonatal outcome including congenital malformations in children born after ICSI with epididymal and testicular sperm [testicular sperm extraction (TESE)/percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA)/testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) (TPT)] differ from neonatal outcome in children born after ICSI with ejaculated sperm, IVF and natural conception (NC)? Children born after TPT have similar neonatal outcome, including total malformation rates, as have children born after ICSI and IVF with ejaculated sperm. Testing for variance over the four groups may indicate smaller differences in specific malformation rates with TPT as the highest risk group. Regarding neonatal outcome as well as congenital malformations in children born after TPT, studies are few, with limited sample size, heterogeneous and often performed without relevant control groups. Population-based cohort study including all Danish children born after TPT and fresh embryo transfer in Denmark from 1995 to 2009. Children born after transfer of frozen-thawed embryos were excluded. Control groups of children conceived by ICSI with ejaculated sperm, IVF and NC were identified by cross-linkage of the Danish IVF Register, Medical Birth Register (MBR) and National Hospital Discharge Register (HDR). The study group consisted of 466 children born after TPT, while the control groups consisted of 8967 (ICSI with ejaculated sperm), 17 592 (IVF) and 63 854 (NC) children. Neonatal outcomes and congenital malformations were analysed for singletons and twins separately. Risk estimates for low birthweight (LBW, <2500 g) and preterm birth (PTB, <37 gestational weeks) were adjusted for maternal age, parity, child gender and year of childbirth. The study group was identified from the Danish national database on children born after TPT. Control groups were obtained from the IVF register and the MBR. All information included in the study was retrieved from the national registers. Considering singletons and twins as one group, the sex ratio (♂/♀) was significantly lower for children born after TPT (0.89) compared with conventional IVF (1.11; P = 0.017) but did not differ significantly when compared with ICSI with ejaculated sperm (0.94) and NC (1.05). The mean birthweight (BW) for singletons did not differ significantly between groups when including only first-born children. The mean gestational age (GA) in the TPT singletons (279 ± 12 days) was significantly higher compared with IVF (276 ± 18 days; P = 0.02), but similar to ICSI with ejaculated sperm and NC singletons when including only first-born children (277 ± 16 days and 279 ± 14 days, respectively). Rate of stillbirths, perinatal and neonatal mortality in the group of TPT singletons did not differ significantly from any of the control groups. Comparable results were found for the TPT twin group, except for perinatal mortality, which was significantly lower in the TPT group compared with naturally conceived twins. The adjusted risk of LBW was significantly higher for TPT versus NC singletons [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.67 (0.48-0.93)]; however AOR for PTB was similar in the two groups. Regarding twins, similar adjusted risks were observed for PTB and LBW between the TPT and all three control groups. Significantly more Caesarean sections were performed after IVF (27.3% for singletons) and ICSI (25.1% for singletons) with ejaculated sperm compared with the TPT group (16.4% for singletons). The total rate of congenital malformations in the TPT group was 7.7% and did not differ significantly from any of the control groups. However, singleton TPT boys showed an increased rate of cardiac malformations (3.6%) compared with singleton boys after IVF (1.4%; P = 0.04) and NC (1.1%; P = 0.02). Considering the level of male infertility as a continuum over the four groups, tests for variance in the rate of cardiac malformations in singleton boys, and undescended testicles for singleton as well as twin boys were each significantly increased from NC to IVF to ICSI to TPT (P < 0.001). The rate of hypospadias showed the same pattern, but the TPT group did not differ significantly compared with the control groups. One of the limitations is that the TPT group could not be classified according to testicular or epididymal sperm, as these data were not available in the IVF register. Another limitation is that registry-based studies are encumbered with the risk of reporting or coding errors or missing data due to insufficient coding. However, the quality of data on congenital malformations in HDR has, in other studies, been validated and found acceptable for epidemiological research, and furthermore, recordings on study and control groups are performed similarly. Accumulating data show that TPT treatment is equally safe as conventional ICSI and IVF treatment and as NC with regard to neonatal outcome including congenital malformation. This study is supported by Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Scientific Unit, Horsens Hospital. No competing interests declared.

Simultaneous versus Sequential Accelerated Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking and Wave Front Guided PRK for Treatment of Keratoconus: Objective and Subjective Evaluation

PubMed Central

El Emam, Dalia Sabry; Farag, Rania Kamel; Abouelkheir, Hossam Youssef

2016-01-01

Aim. To compare objective and subjective outcome after simultaneous wave front guided (WFG) PRK and accelerated corneal cross-linking (CXL) in patients with progressive keratoconus versus sequential WFG PRK 6 months after CXL. Methods. 62 eyes with progressive keratoconus were divided into two groups; the first including 30 eyes underwent simultaneous WFG PRK with accelerated CXL. The second including 32 eyes underwent subsequent WFG PRK performed 6 months later after accelerated CXL. Visual, refractive, topographic, and aberrometric data were determined preoperatively and during 1-year follow-up period and the results compared in between the 2 studied groups. Results. All evaluated visual, refractive, and aberrometric parameters demonstrated highly significant improvement in both studied groups (all P < 0.001). A significant improvement was observed in keratometric and Q values. The improvement in all parameters was stable till the end of follow-up. Likewise, no significant difference was determined in between the 2 groups in any of recorded parameters. Subjective data revealed similarly significant improvement in both groups. Conclusions. WFG PRK and accelerated CXL is an effective and safe option to improve the vision in mild to moderate keratoconus. In one-year follow-up, there is no statistically significant difference between the simultaneous and sequential procedure. PMID:28127465

Simultaneous versus Sequential Accelerated Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking and Wave Front Guided PRK for Treatment of Keratoconus: Objective and Subjective Evaluation.

PubMed

Abou Samra, Waleed Ali; El Emam, Dalia Sabry; Farag, Rania Kamel; Abouelkheir, Hossam Youssef

2016-01-01

Aim . To compare objective and subjective outcome after simultaneous wave front guided (WFG) PRK and accelerated corneal cross-linking (CXL) in patients with progressive keratoconus versus sequential WFG PRK 6 months after CXL. Methods . 62 eyes with progressive keratoconus were divided into two groups; the first including 30 eyes underwent simultaneous WFG PRK with accelerated CXL. The second including 32 eyes underwent subsequent WFG PRK performed 6 months later after accelerated CXL. Visual, refractive, topographic, and aberrometric data were determined preoperatively and during 1-year follow-up period and the results compared in between the 2 studied groups. Results . All evaluated visual, refractive, and aberrometric parameters demonstrated highly significant improvement in both studied groups (all P < 0.001). A significant improvement was observed in keratometric and Q values. The improvement in all parameters was stable till the end of follow-up. Likewise, no significant difference was determined in between the 2 groups in any of recorded parameters. Subjective data revealed similarly significant improvement in both groups. Conclusions . WFG PRK and accelerated CXL is an effective and safe option to improve the vision in mild to moderate keratoconus. In one-year follow-up, there is no statistically significant difference between the simultaneous and sequential procedure.

The effect of personality type and musical task on self-perceived arousal.

PubMed

Lim, Hayoung A

2008-01-01

This study was designed to measure the level of arousal influenced by 4 different musical experiences classified by task difficulty and to examine the relationship between music-induced arousal level and personality type. Participants included 32 university students who were neither musicians nor music majors. The Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (Eysenck & Eysenck, 1975) was used to identify participants as either extravert or introvert. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 types of musical tasks: listening, singing, rhythm tapping, or keyboard playing. Arousal level was measured using the Activation-Deactivation Adjective Check List (ADACL) (Thayer, 1978) before and after the musical task. The ADACL is a self-report scale consisting of a list of 20 adjectives which describe various transitory arousal states, including energy, tiredness, tension, and calmness. Results showed no significant difference between personality types and the changes in arousal level. Result indicated a significant effect of listening on decreased tension arousal. Singing and rhythm tapping, which are regarded as having a relatively moderate task difficulty, increased energy arousal significantly and decreased tiredness arousal significantly. Participants' tiredness arousal levels also decreased significantly after keyboard playing. These findings suggest that engaging in musical experience that has a moderate level of task difficulty makes individuals more energetic and less tired.

Exploring personality characteristics of Chinese adolescents with internet-related addictive behaviors: trait differences for gaming addiction and social networking addiction.

PubMed

Wang, Chong-Wen; Ho, Rainbow T H; Chan, Cecilia L W; Tse, Samson

2015-03-01

This study investigated the associations between personality traits, based on the Big Five model, and addictive behaviors to different online activities among adolescents. A sample of 920 participants was recruited from four secondary schools in different districts using random cluster sampling. A structured questionnaire, including demographic information, internet usage pattern, the Internet Addiction Test, the Game Addiction Scale, the Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale - Revised, and the Big Five Inventory, was administered to each participant. The results demonstrated a significant difference in personality traits for addictive behaviors related to different online activities. Specifically, higher neuroticism (β=0.15, p<0.001) and less conscientiousness (β=0.12, p<0.001) displayed significant associations with internet addiction in general; less conscientiousness (β=0.09, p<0.01) and low openness (β=0.06, p<0.05) were significantly associated with gaming addiction; and neuroticism (β=0.15, p<0.001) and extraversion (β=0.10, p<0.01) were significantly associated with social networking addiction. Our findings may provide a better understanding of the etiopathology of internet-related addictive behaviors and have implications for psychoeducation and psychotherapy programs. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Gender similarities and differences in brain activation strategies: Voxel-based meta-analysis on fMRI studies.

PubMed

AlRyalat, Saif Aldeen

2017-01-01

Gender similarities and differences have long been a matter of debate in almost all human research, especially upon reaching the discussion about brain functions. This large scale meta-analysis was performed on functional MRI studies. It included more than 700 active brain foci from more than 70 different experiments to study gender related similarities and differences in brain activation strategies for three of the main brain functions: Visual-spatial cognition, memory, and emotion. Areas that are significantly activated by both genders (i.e. core areas) for the tested brain function are mentioned, whereas those areas significantly activated exclusively in one gender are the gender specific areas. During visual-spatial cognition task, and in addition to the core areas, males significantly activated their left superior frontal gyrus, compared with left superior parietal lobule in females. For memory tasks, several different brain areas activated by each gender, but females significantly activated two areas from the limbic system during memory retrieval tasks. For emotional task, males tend to recruit their bilateral prefrontal regions, whereas females tend to recruit their bilateral amygdalae. This meta-analysis provides an overview based on functional MRI studies on how males and females use their brain.

No difference in learning retention in manikin-based simulation based on role

PubMed Central

Giuliano, Dominic; DC, Marion McGregor

2016-01-01

Objective: We evaluated learning retention in interns exposed to simulation. It was hypothesized that learning would degrade after 6 months and there would be a difference in retention between interns who played a critical role versus those who did not. Methods: A total of 23 groups of 5 to 9 interns underwent a cardiac scenario twice during 1 simulation experience and again 6 months later. We captured 69 recordings (23 before debrief at baseline [PrDV], 23 after debrief at baseline [PoDV], and 23 at 6-month follow-up [FUV]). Students were assigned different roles, including the critical role of “doctor” in a blinded, haphazard fashion. At 6-month follow-up, 12 interns who played the role of doctor initially were assigned that role again, while 11 interns who played noncritical roles initially were newly assigned to doctor. All videos of intern performance were scored independently and in a blinded fashion, by 3 judges using a 15-item check list. Results: Repeated-measures analysis of variance for interns completing all 3 time points indicated a significant difference between time points (F2,22 = 112, p = .00). Contrasts showed a statistically significant difference between PrDV and PoDV (p = .00), and PrDV and FUV (p = .00), but no difference between PoDV and FUV (p = .98). This was consistent with results including all data points. Checklist scores were more than double for PoDV recordings (16) and FUV (15), compared to PrDV recordings (6.6). Follow-up scores comparing old to new doctors showed no statistically significant difference (15.4 vs 15.2 respectively, t21 = 0.26, p = .80, d = .11). Conclusions: Learning retention was maintained regardless of role. PMID:26367345

Peri-implant soft tissue colour around titanium and zirconia abutments: a prospective randomized controlled clinical study.

PubMed

Cosgarea, Raluca; Gasparik, Cristina; Dudea, Diana; Culic, Bogdan; Dannewitz, Bettina; Sculean, Anton

2015-05-01

To objectively determine the difference in colour between the peri-implant soft tissue at titanium and zirconia abutments. Eleven patients, each with two contralaterally inserted osteointegrated dental implants, were included in this study. The implants were restored either with titanium abutments and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, or with zirconia abutments and ceramic crowns. Prior and after crown cementation, multi-spectral images of the peri-implant soft tissues and the gingiva of the neighbouring teeth were taken with a colorimeter. The colour parameters L*, a*, b*, c* and the colour differences ΔE were calculated. Descriptive statistics, including non-parametric tests and correlation coefficients, were used for statistical analyses of the data. Compared to the gingiva of the neighbouring teeth, the peri-implant soft tissue around titanium and zirconia (test group), showed distinguishable ΔE both before and after crown cementation. Colour differences around titanium were statistically significant different (P = 0.01) only at 1 mm prior to crown cementation compared to zirconia. Compared to the gingiva of the neighbouring teeth, statistically significant (P < 0.01) differences were found for all colour parameter, either before or after crown cementation for both abutments; more significant differences were registered for titanium abutments. Tissue thickness correlated positively with c*-values for titanium at 1 mm and 2 mm from the gingival margin. Within their limits, the present data indicate that: (i) The peri-implant soft tissue around titanium and zirconia showed colour differences when compared to the soft tissue around natural teeth, and (ii) the peri-implant soft tissue around zirconia demonstrated a better colour match to the soft tissue at natural teeth than titanium. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Risk of aspirin continuation in spinal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Goes, Rik; Muskens, Ivo S; Smith, Timothy R; Mekary, Rania A; Broekman, Marike L D; Moojen, Wouter A

2017-12-01

Aspirin is typically discontinued in spinal surgery because of increased risk of hemorrhagic complications. The risk of perioperative continuation of aspirin in neurosurgery needed to be evaluated. This study aimed to evaluate all available evidence about continuation of aspirin and to compare peri- and postoperative blood loss and complication rates between patients that continued aspirin and those who discontinued aspirin perioperatively in spinal surgery. Systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out. A meta-analysis was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies comparing aspirin continuation with discontinuation were included. Studies using a combination of anticlotting agents or non-spinal procedures were excluded. Operative outcomes (blood loss and operative length) and different complications (surgical site infection [SSI]), stroke, myocardial infarction within 30 days postoperatively) were extracted. Overall prevalence and means were calculated for the reported outcomes in fixed-effects models with heterogeneity (I-squared [I 2 ]) and effect modification (P-interaction) assessment. Out of 1,339 studies, three case series were included in the meta-analysis. No significant differences in mean operating time were seen between the aspirin-continuing group (mean=201.8 minutes, 95% confidence interval [CI]=193.3; 210.3; I 2 =95.4%; 170 patients) and the aspirin-discontinuing group (mean=178.4 minutes, 95% CI=119.1; 237.6; I 2 =93.5%; 200 patients); (P-interaction=0.78). No significant differences in mean perioperative blood loss were seen between the aspirin-continuing group (mean=553.9 milliliters, 95% CI=468.0; 639.9; I 2 =83.4%; 170 patients) and the aspirin-discontinuing group (mean=538.7 milliliters, 95% CI=427.6; 649.8; I 2 =985.5%; 200 patients); (P-interaction=0.96). Similar non-significant differences between the two groups were found for cardiac events, stroke, and surgical site infections. This meta-analysis showed an absence of significant differences in perioperative complications between aspirin continuation and discontinuation. Because of the paucity of included studies, further well-designed prospective trials are imperative to demonstrate potential benefit and safety. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A meta-analysis of differences in IQ profiles between individuals with Asperger's disorder and high-functioning autism.

PubMed

Chiang, Hsu-Min; Tsai, Luke Y; Cheung, Ying Kuen; Brown, Alice; Li, Huacheng

2014-07-01

A meta-analysis was performed to examine differences in IQ profiles between individuals with Asperger's disorder (AspD) and high-functioning autism (HFA). Fifty-two studies were included for this study. The results showed that (a) individuals with AspD had significantly higher full-scale IQ, verbal IQ (VIQ), and performance IQ (PIQ) than did individuals with HFA; (b) individuals with AspD had significantly higher VIQ than PIQ; and (c) VIQ was similar to PIQ in individuals with HFA. These findings seem to suggest that AspD and HFA are two different subtypes of Autism. The implications of the present findings to DSM-5 Autism Spectrum Disorder are discussed.

Hip rotation range of motion in sitting and prone positions in healthy Japanese adults

PubMed Central

Han, Heonsoo; Kubo, Akira; Kurosawa, Kazuo; Maruichi, Shizuka; Maruyama, Hitoshi

2015-01-01

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to elucidate the difference in hip external and internal rotation ranges of motion (ROM) between the prone and sitting positions. [Subjects] The subjects included 151 students. [Methods] Hip rotational ROM was measured with the subjects in the prone and sitting positions. Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to analyze ipsilateral hip rotation ROM in the prone and sitting positions in males and females. The total ipsilateral hip rotation ROM was calculated by adding the measured values for external and internal rotations. [Results] Ipsilateral hip rotation ROM revealed significant differences between two positions for both left and right internal and external rotations. Hip rotation ROM was significantly higher in the prone position than in the sitting position. Hip rotation ROM significantly differed between the men and women. Hip external rotation ROM was significantly higher in both positions in men; conversely, hip internal rotation ROM was significantly higher in both positions in women. [Conclusion] Hip rotation ROM significantly differed between the sexes and between the sitting and prone positions. Total ipsilateral hip rotation ROM, total angle of external rotation, and total angle of internal rotation of the left and right hips greatly varied, suggesting that hip joint rotational ROM is widely distributed. PMID:25729186

Identifying Universal Linguistic Features Associated with Veracity and Deception

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-02

involved an eyewitness testing paradigm, in which participants from three very different language groups witnessed an actual crime and write true and...statements will include significantly more indicators of deception and significantly less indicators of veracity across all languages tested ...examine possible differential carry-over effects if participants wrote both true and false statements in a within-subjects design . The findings

Effect of intravascular contrast agent on diffusion and perfusion fraction coefficients in the peripheral zone and prostate cancer.

PubMed

Mazaheri, Yousef; Hötker, Andreas M; Shukla-Dave, Amita; Akin, Oguz; Hricak, Hedvig

2018-09-01

To determine whether water diffusion and the perfusion fraction coefficients in prostate peripheral zone (PZ) and prostate cancer (PCa) are affected by intravenous contrast injection and explore the potential mechanism behind previously reported differences between pre- and post-contrast ADC values. Our institutional review board waived informed consent for this HIPAA-compliant, retrospective study, which included 32 patients (median age, 63 years; range, 47-77 years) with biopsy-proven, untreated PCa who underwent 3-Tesla MRI, including DW-MRI at b-values 0, 400, 700, 1000 s/mm 2 before and after gadolinium injection. For regions of interest (ROIs) in presumed benign PZ and PZ PCa, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), perfusion fraction f, and diffusion coefficient D were estimated voxel-wise, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise (CNR) were estimated. Pre- and post-contrast measurements were compared by Wilcoxon signed-rank test; P < 0.05 was considered significant. In PZ, f (P = 0.002) was significantly higher on post-contrast imaging than on pre-contrast imaging, but ADC and D values did not change significantly (P = 0.562 and 0.295 respectively). In PCa, all parameters differed significantly between post-contrast and pre-contrast imaging (P < 0.0001 for ADC, P = 0.0084 for D, and P = 0.029 for f). On post-contrast imaging, SNR was not significantly different in PZ (P = 0.260) but was significantly lower in PCa (P < 0.0001); CNR did not change significantly (P = 0.059). After contrast injection, ADC and D declined significantly in PCa only, while f increased significantly in both PCa and PZ. Pre- and post-contrast diffusion parameters cannot be used interchangeably for diagnostic purposes that require quantitative diffusion estimates. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Symptom correlates of cerebral blood flow following acute concussion.

PubMed

Churchill, Nathan W; Hutchison, Michael G; Graham, Simon J; Schweizer, Tom A

2017-01-01

Concussion is associated with significant symptoms within hours to days post-injury, including disturbances in physical function, cognition, sleep and emotion. However, little is known about how subjective impairments correlate with objective measures of cerebrovascular function following brain injury. This study examined the relationship between symptoms and cerebral blood flow (CBF) in individuals following sport-related concussion. Seventy university level athletes had CBF measured using Arterial Spin Labelling (ASL), including 35 with acute concussion and 35 matched controls and their symptoms were assessed using the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 3 (SCAT3). For concussed athletes, greater total symptom severity was associated with elevated posterior cortical CBF, although mean CBF was not significantly different from matched controls ( p  = 0.46). Examining symptom clusters, athletes reporting greater cognitive symptoms also had lower frontal and subcortical CBF, relative to athletes with greater somatic symptoms. The "cognitive" and "somatic" subgroups also exhibited significant differences in CBF relative to controls ( p  ≤ 0.026). This study demonstrates objective CBF correlates of symptoms in recently concussed athletes and shows that specific symptom clusters may have distinct patterns of altered CBF, significantly extending our understanding of the neurobiology of concussion and traumatic brain injury.

Antimicrobial effect of the Biotronic® Top3 supplement and efficacy in protecting rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) from infection by Aeromonas salmonicida subsp. salmonicida.

PubMed

Menanteau-Ledouble, Simon; Krauss, Ines; Goncalves, Rui Alexandre; Weber, Barbara; Santos, Gonçalo Abreu; El-Matbouli, Mansour

2017-10-01

Demand for more environmentally friendly practices have led to the adoption of several feed supplements by the fish farming industry. In the present study, we investigated a commercially available formula that includes a mixture of three compounds: organic acids, a phytochemical and Biomin® Permeabilizing Complex. This mixture demonstrated antimicrobial properties in vitro and was able to inhibit growth of multiple species of aquatic bacterial pathogens, including Aeromonas salmonicida. Bacterial challenge was performed using A. salmonicida and three exposure routes: intra-peritoneal injection, immersion, and cohabitation. Mortality rates following infection by injection were significantly decreased in the fish that had received the supplemented feed. Fish infected through the other routes did not show a significant difference in mortality. In term of farming performance, while the fish that had received the feed supplement showed an improvement in weight gain and final weight, these changes were not found to be statistically significant. Similarly, no significant difference was observed in the feed conversion ratio. The results of this study suggest that this feed supplement may be effective at protecting rainbow trout from fish furunculosis. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Single versus divided administration of intravenous immunoglobulin for sepsis: a retrospective and historical control study.

PubMed

Nakamura, Kensuke; Inokuchi, Ryota; Fukushima, Kazutaka; Naraba, Hiromu; Takahashi, Yuji; Sonoo, Tomohiro; Hashimoto, Hideki; Doi, Kent; Morimura, Naoto

2018-05-28

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is regarded as effective, theoretically, for sepsis. The IVIG regimen for severe infection covered by Japanese health insurance is administration of 5 g per day for three days: an extremely low dosage. We investigated its effectiveness by comparison between divided dosage and single dosage of 15 g × one day. Patients who were admitted to our hospital's Emergency Medical Center and treated with IVIG for sepsis were included and were analyzed retrospectively. The dosage regimen was 5 g × three days in the early half period, and 15 g × one day in the latter half period employing the same indication criteria. Each group included 57 patients. No significant difference was found in their baseline characteristics, survival probability, or length of mechanical ventilation. However, the ICU stay and hospital stay lengths were shortened significantly by administration of the single dosage regimen. Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy markers and inflammatory indices were improved significantly earlier in the 15 g × one day group. Regarding adverse events, no significant difference was found. For sepsis treatment, single administration of 15 g IVIG for one day improved the condition and inflammation earlier than divided dosage.

Comparison of Anaerobic Susceptibility Results Obtained by Different Methods

PubMed Central

Rosenblatt, J. E.; Murray, P. R.; Sonnenwirth, A. C.; Joyce, J. L.

1979-01-01

Susceptibility tests using 7 antimicrobial agents (carbenicillin, chloramphenicol, clindamycin, penicillin, cephalothin, metronidazole, and tetracycline) were run against 35 anaerobes including Bacteroides fragilis (17), other gram-negative bacilli (7), clostridia (5), peptococci (4), and eubacteria (2). Results in triplicate obtained by the microbroth dilution method and the aerobic modification of the broth disk method were compared with those obtained with an agar dilution method using Wilkins-Chalgren agar. Media used in the microbroth dilution method included Wilkins-Chalgren broth, brain heart infusion broth, brucella broth, tryptic soy broth, thioglycolate broth, and Schaedler's broth. A result differing by more than one dilution from the Wilkins-Chalgren agar result was considered a discrepancy, and when there was a change in susceptibility status this was termed a significant discrepancy. The microbroth dilution method using Wilkins-Chalgren broth and thioglycolate broth produced the fewest total discrepancies (22 and 24, respectively), and Wilkins-Chalgren broth, thioglycolate, and Schaedler's broth had the fewest significant discrepancies (6, 5, and 5, respectively). With the broth disk method, there were 15 significant discrepancies, although half of these were with tetracycline, which was the antimicrobial agent associated with the highest number of significant discrepancies (33), considering all of the test methods and media. PMID:464560

Quantifying Neonatal Sucking Performance: Promise of New Methods

PubMed Central

Capilouto, Gilson J.; Cunningham, Tommy J.; Mullineaux, David R.; Tamilia, Eleonora; Papadelis, Christos; Giannone, Peter J.

2017-01-01

Neonatal feeding has been traditionally understudied so guidelines and evidence-based support for common feeding practices are limited. A major contributing factor to the paucity of evidence-based practice in this area has been the lack of simple-to-use, low-cost tools for monitoring sucking performance. We describe new methods for quantifying neonatal sucking performance that hold significant clinical and research promise. We present early results from an ongoing study investigating neonatal sucking as a marker of risk for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. We include quantitative measures of sucking performance to better understand how movement variability evolves during skill acquisition. Results showed the coefficient of variation of suck duration was significantly different between preterm neonates at high risk for developmental concerns (HRPT) and preterm neonates at low risk for developmental concerns (LRPT). For HRPT, results indicated the coefficient of variation of suck smoothness increased from initial feeding to discharge and remained significantly greater than healthy full-term newborns (FT) at discharge. There was no significant difference in our measures between FT and LRPT at discharge. Our findings highlight the need to include neonatal sucking assessment as part of routine clinical care in order to capture the relative risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes at discharge. PMID:28324904

No correlation between stroke specialty and rate of shoulder pain in NCAA men swimmers

PubMed Central

Wymore, Lucas; Reeve, Robert E.; Chaput, Christopher D.

2012-01-01

Purpose: To established an association between shoulder pain and the stroke specialization among NCAA men swimmers. Materials and Methods: All members of the top 25 NCAA men's swim teams were invited to complete the survey. Eleven teams with a total of 187 participants completed the study survey. The teams were mailed surveys that included multiple choice questions regarding their primary stroke and their incidence of shoulder pain. Additionally, the survey included questions about risk factors including distance trained, type of equipment, weight training, and stretching. Results: The analysis showed that there was no significant difference in the rates of shoulder pain among the four strokes and individual medley specialists. The other risk factors did not show a significant correlation with shoulder pain. Conclusions: This study found no significant correlation between stroke specialty and shoulder pain in male collegiate swimmers. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Clinical Relevance: Descriptive epidemiology study. PMID:23204760

Learning Objectives and Testing: An Analysis of Six Principles of Economics Textbooks, Using Bloom's Taxonomy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karns, James M. L.; And Others

1983-01-01

Significant differences were found between the stated objectives of most college level economics textbooks and the instruments included in the instructor's manuals to measure student achievement. (Author/RM)

What is the effect of surgery on the quality of life of the adolescent with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis? A review and statistical analysis of the literature.

PubMed

Rushton, Paul R P; Grevitt, Michael P

2013-04-20

Review and statistical analysis of studies evaluating the effect of surgery on the health-related quality of life of adolescents with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, using Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) outcomes. Apply published minimum clinical important differences (MCID) values for the SRS22r questionnaire to the literature to identify what areas of health-related quality of life are consistently affected by surgery and whether changes are clinically meaningful. The interpretation of published studies using the SRS outcomes has been limited by the lack of MCID values for the questionnaire domains. The recent publication of these data allows the clinical importance of any changes in these studies to be examined for the first time. A literature search was undertaken to locate suitable studies that were then analyzed. Statistically significant differences from baseline to 2 years postoperatively were ascertained by narratively reporting the analyses within included studies. When possible, clinically significant changes were assessed using 95% confidence intervals for the change in mean domain score. If the lower bound of the confidence intervals for the change exceeded the MCID for that domain, the change was considered clinically significant. The numbers of cohorts available for the different analyses varied (5-16). Eighty-one percent and 94% of included cohorts experienced statistically significant improvements in pain and self-image domains. In terms of clinical significance, it was only self-image that regularly improved by more than MCID, doing so in 4 of 5 included cohorts (80%) compared with 1 of 12 cohorts (8%) for pain. No clinically relevant changes occurred in mental health or activity domains. Evidence suggests that surgery can lead to clinically important improvement in patient self-image. Surgeons and patients should be aware of the limited evidence for improvements in domains other than self-image after surgery. Surgical decision-making will also be influenced by the natural history of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Efficacy and tolerability of exenatide twice daily and exenatide once weekly in Asian versus White patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A pooled analysis.

PubMed

Sheu, Wayne H-H; Brunell, Steven C; Blase, Erich

2016-04-01

The efficacy and safety of exenatide twice daily (BID) and once weekly (QW) were assessed in Asian versus White patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This post-hoc pooled analysis evaluated patients receiving 10μg exenatide BID for 12-30 weeks or 2mg exenatide QW for 24-30 weeks in exenatide clinical development program trials. Race was self-identified. A total of 4625 patients were included (exenatide BID: Asian, n=787; White, n=2223; exenatide QW: Asian, n=511; White, n=1104). At study end, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting glucose (FG), body weight, post-prandial glucose (PPG), and PPG excursions were significantly reduced (all P<0.0001 vs baseline). For exenatide BID, HbA1c reduction was greater in Asians (P<0.0001 vs Whites), whereas HbA1c reduction did not differ by race for exenatide QW. FG reduction did not differ by race for either exenatide formulation. Weight reduction was significantly greater in Whites (P<0.0001 vs Asians), regardless of exenatide formulation. PPG reduction was greater in Asians (P<0.0001 vs Whites) for exenatide BID but did not differ by race for exenatide QW. For exenatide BID, reductions in PPG excursions for all meals were significantly greater in Asians (P<0.0001 vs Whites), whereas only post-breakfast and post-lunch excursions were significantly greater in Asians for exenatide QW (P=0.0009 and P=0.0189 vs Whites, respectively). Common adverse events included nausea, headache, and diarrhea. Exenatide BID and QW improved glycemic control, including PPG, in Asian and White patients with T2DM. With exenatide BID, Asian patients exhibited significantly greater reductions in HbA1c and PPG than White patients. Both exenatide formulations were well tolerated in both groups. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Nurse versus physician-led care for the management of asthma.

PubMed

Kuethe, Maarten C; Vaessen-Verberne, Anja A P H; Elbers, Roy G; Van Aalderen, Wim M C

2013-02-28

Asthma is the most common chronic disease in childhood and prevalence is also high in adulthood, thereby placing a considerable burden on healthcare resources. Therefore, effective asthma management is important to reduce morbidity and to optimise utilisation of healthcare facilities. To review the effectiveness of nurse-led asthma care provided by a specialised asthma nurse, a nurse practitioner, a physician assistant or an otherwise specifically trained nursing professional, working relatively independently from a physician, compared to traditional care provided by a physician. Our scope included all outpatient care for asthma, both in primary care and in hospital settings. We carried out a comprehensive search of databases including The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE and EMBASE to identify trials up to August 2012. Bibliographies of relevant papers were searched, and handsearching of relevant publications was undertaken to identify additional trials. Randomised controlled trials comparing nurse-led care versus physician-led care in asthma for the same aspect of asthma care. We used standard methodological procedures expected by The Cochrane Collaboration. Five studies on 588 adults and children were included concerning nurse-led care versus physician-led care. One study included 154 patients with uncontrolled asthma, while the other four studies including 434 patients with controlled or partly controlled asthma. The studies were of good methodological quality (although it is not possible to blind people giving or receiving the intervention to which group they are in). There was no statistically significant difference in the number of asthma exacerbations and asthma severity after treatment (duration of follow-up from six months to two years). Only one study had healthcare costs as an outcome parameter, no statistical differences were found. Although not a primary outcome, quality of life is a patient-important outcome and in the three trials on 380 subjects that reported on this outcome, there was no statistically significant difference (standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.03; 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.23 to 0.17). We found no significant difference between nurse-led care for patients with asthma compared to physician-led care for the outcomes assessed. Based on the relatively small number of studies in this review, nurse-led care may be appropriate in patients with well-controlled asthma. More studies in varied settings and among people with varying levels of asthma control are needed with data on adverse events and health-care costs.

THE POSSIBLE IMPACT OF L5 MAGNETOGRAMS ON NON-POTENTIAL SOLAR CORONAL MAGNETIC FIELD SIMULATIONS

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

Weinzierl, Marion; Yeates, Anthony R.; Mackay, Duncan H.

The proposed Carrington-L5 mission would bring instruments to the L5 Lagrange point to provide us with crucial data for space weather prediction. To assess the importance of including a magnetograph, we consider the possible differences in non-potential solar coronal magnetic field simulations when magnetograph observations are available from the L5 point, compared with an L1-based field of view (FOV). A timeseries of synoptic radial magnetic field maps is constructed to capture the emergence of two active regions from the L5 FOV. These regions are initially absent in the L1 magnetic field maps, but are included once they rotate into themore » L1 FOV. Non-potential simulations for these two sets of input data are compared in detail. Within the bipolar active regions themselves, differences in the magnetic field structure can exist between the two simulations once the active regions are included in both. These differences tend to reduce within 5 days of the active region being included in L1. The delayed emergence in L1 can, however, lead to significant persistent differences in long-range connectivity between the active regions and the surrounding fields, and also in the global magnetic energy. In particular, the open magnetic flux and the location of open magnetic footpoints, are sensitive to capturing the real-time of emergence. These results suggest that a magnetograph at L5 could significantly improve predictions of the non-potential corona, the interplanetary magnetic field, and of solar wind source regions on the Sun.« less

Impact of policy changes on infant feeding decisions among low-income women participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

PubMed

Whaley, Shannon E; Koleilat, Maria; Whaley, Mike; Gomez, Judy; Meehan, Karen; Saluja, Kiran

2012-12-01

We present infant feeding data before and after the 2009 Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food package change that supported and incentivized breastfeeding. We describe the key role of California WIC staff in supporting these policy changes. We analyzed WIC data on more than 180,000 infants in Southern California. We employed the analysis of variance and Tukey (honestly significant difference) tests to compare issuance rates of postpartum and infant food packages before and after the changes. We used analysis of covariance to adjust for poverty status changes as a potential confounder. Issuance rates of the "fully breastfeeding" package at infant WIC enrollment increased by 86% with the package changes. Rates also increased significantly for 2- and 6-month-old infants. Issuance rates of packages that included formula decreased significantly. All outcomes remained highly significant in the adjusted model. Policy changes, training of front-line WIC staff, and participant education influenced issuance rates of WIC food packages. In California, the issuance rates of packages that include formula have significantly decreased and the rate for those that include no formula has significantly increased.

Low-shrink composite resins: a review of their history, strategies for managing shrinkage, and clinical significance.

PubMed

Pitel, Mark L

2013-09-01

Despite numerous advances in composite resin technology over the course of many decades, shrinkage behavior and the resultant stresses inherent to direct placed composite restorations continue to challenge clinicians. This overview of composite resins includes a review of their history and development along with a discussion of strategies for reducing polymerization shrinkage. An assessment of the clinical significance of these materials is also provided, including a discussion of the differences between polymerization shrinkage and stress, incremental layering versus bulk placement, and the emergence of lower shrinkage stress monomer chemistry.

Parent-training programmes for improving maternal psychosocial health.

PubMed

Barlow, J; Coren, E

2001-01-01

Mental health problems are common, and there is evidence from a range of studies to suggest that a number of factors relating to maternal psychosocial health can have a significant effect on the mother-infant relationship, and that this can have consequences for both the short and long-term psychological health of the child. The use of parenting programmes is increasing in the UK and evidence of their effectiveness in improving outcomes for mothers is now required. The objective of this review is to address whether group-based parenting programmes are effective in improving maternal psychosocial health including anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. A range of biomedical, social science, educational and general reference electronic databases were searched including MEDLINE, EMBASE CINAHL, PsychLIT, ERIC, ASSIA, Sociofile and the Social Science Citation Index. Other sources of information included the Cochrane Library (SPECTR, CENTRAL), and the National Research Register (NRR). Only randomised controlled trials were included in which participants had been randomly allocated to an experimental and a control group, the latter being either a waiting-list, no-treatment or a placebo control group. Studies had to include at least one group-based parenting programme, and one standardised instrument measuring maternal psychosocial health. A systematic critical appraisal of all included studies was undertaken using a modified version of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published criteria. The treatment effect for each outcome in each study was standardised by dividing the mean difference in post-intervention scores for the intervention and treatment group, by the pooled standard deviation, to produce an effect size. Where appropriate the results were then combined in a meta-analysis using a fixed-effect model, and 95% confidence intervals were used to assess the significance of the findings. A total of 23 studies were included in the review but only 17 provided sufficient data to calculate effect sizes. The 17 studies provided a total of 59 assessments of outcome on a range of aspects of psychosocial functioning including depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, social competence, social support, guilt, mood, automatic thoughts, dyadic adjustment, psychiatric morbidity, irrationality, anger and aggression, mood, attitude, personality, and beliefs. There was only sufficient data, however, on five outcomes (depression; anxiety/stress; self-esteem; social support; and relationship with spouse/marital adjustment) to combine the results in a meta-analysis. The meta-analyses show statistically significant results favouring the intervention group as regards depression; anxiety/stress; self-esteem; and relationship with spouse/marital adjustment. The meta-analysis of the social support data, however, showed no evidence of effectiveness. These results suggest that parenting programmes, irrespective of the type (or content) of programme, can be effective in improving important aspects of maternal psycho-social functioning. Of the data summarising the effectiveness of the different types of parenting programmes, which it was not possible to combine in a meta-analysis, approximately 22% of the outcomes measured, showed significant differences between the intervention group and the control group. A further 40% showed medium to large non-significant differences favouring the intervention group. Approximately one-third of outcomes showed small non-significant differences or no evidence of effectiveness. A meta-analysis of the follow-up data on three outcomes was also conducted - depression, self-esteem and relationship with spouse/marital adjustment. The results show that there was a continued improvement in self-esteem, depression and marital adjustment at follow-up, although the latter two findings were not statistically significant. It is suggested that parenting programmes can make a significant contribution to short-term psychosocial health in mothers, and that the limited follow-up data available suggest that these are maintained over time. However, the overall paucity of long-term follow-up data points to the need for further evidence concerning the long-term effectiveness of parenting programmes on maternal mental health. Furthermore, it is suggested that some caution should be exercised before the results are generalised to parents irrespective of the level of pathology present, and that further research is still required.

Impact of Exercise and Education in Adults of Lubbock, Texas: Implications for Better Lifestyle.

PubMed

Boles, Annette N; Khan, Hafiz; Lenzmeier, Taylor A; Molinar-Lopez, Veronica A; Ament, James C; TeBrink, Kate L; Stonum, Kathleen; Gonzales, Ruben M; Reddy, P Hemachandra

2016-01-01

The objective of our study was to evaluate the exercise and educational intervention in the city of Lubbock via GET FiT Lubbock (GFL) program. The GFL program was designed to increase exercise and educational opportunities, which positively impact health risk factors in Lubbock residents. The GFL program design included the recruitment of subjects to participate on a team that consisted of four individuals, each subject tracked their exercise minutes, and their educational session attendance. The tracking of exercise and educational sessions was done on the GFL website. Biometric testing was conducted pre- and post- intervention. The program was located within the Lubbock community in places that were close to their place of residence. The intervention included walking and educational sessions, including goal setting lectures, nutrition information, and exercise demonstrations. Study participants, included male and female adults who tracked their exercise time and educational sessions. Exercise minutes and educational session attendance were self-reported. Our data analysis revealed that significant difference was found between pre- and post- intervention measures, including weight, body mass index (BMI), high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Significant difference was found for weight, BMI, and HDL in females. Based on these findings, we conclude that the intervention showed positive effects on exercise and lifestyle.

[Relationship between CD4(+) T lymphocyte cell count and the prognosis (including the healing of the incision wound) of HIV/AIDS patients who had undergone surgical operation].

PubMed

Yang, Di; Zhao, Hongxin; Gao, Guiju; Wei, Kai; Zhang, Li; Han, Ning; Xiao, Jiang; Li, Xin; Wang, Fang; Liang, Hongyuan; Zhang, Wei; Wu, Liang

2014-12-01

To explore the relationship between CD4(+) T lymphocyte cell count and prognosis as well as healing of the surgical incision in HIV/AIDS patients who had received operation. Data were collected and analysed retrospectively from 234 HIV/AIDS patients hospitalized at the Beijing Ditan hospital who underwent operation between January 2008 and December 2012. Following factors were taken into consideration that including:age, gender, time and where that anti-HIV(+) was diagnosed, CD4(+)T lymphocyte cell count at the time of operation, part of the body that being operated, typology of incision, different levels of healing on the surgical incision, infection at the incision site, post-operative complications and the prognosis, etc. Wilcoxon rank sum test, χ(2) test, Kruskal-Wallis H test and Spearman rank correlation were used for statistical analysis to compare the different levels on healing of the incision in relation to the different CD4(+)T lymphocyte cell counts. Rates of level A healing under different CD4(+)T cell counts were also compared. 1) Among the 234 patients including 125 males and 109 females, the average age was 36.17±11.56 years old. Time after discovery of anti-HIV(+)was between 0 and 204 months. The medium CD4(+)T cell count was 388.5 cell/µl; 23.93% of the patients having CD4(+)T lymphocyte cell counts as <200 cell/µl. 2) 7.26% of the operations were emergent. There were 23 different organs affected at the time of operation, due to 48 different kinds of illness. 21.37% of the operations belonged to class I incision, 49.57% was class II incision and 29.06% was class III incision. 86.32% of the incisions resulted in level A healing, 12.51% resulted in level B and 1.71% in level C. 4.27% of the patients developed post-operative complications. Differences between level A healing and level B or C healing in terms of CD4(+)T lymphocyte cell count were not significant (P > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference on the CD4(+) T lymphocyte count in patients with or without postoperative complications. Difference of the HIV infection time was also not statistically significant between the two groups of patients. Rate of level A healing for the different CD4(+)T lymphocyte cell count was not significant (P > 0.05). Healing of the incision did not show significant correlation with CD4(+) T lymphocyte cell count, duration of antiretroviral therapy or the time that HIV infection was discovered (P > 0.05). As long as both the in/exclusion criteria were strictly followed, prognosis for operation on HIV/AIDS seemed to be generally good. Low CD4(+)T lymphocyte cell count should not be taken as a exclusion criteria for operation on HIV/AIDS patients.

Changing times at the Rocky Mountain Forest & Range Experiment Station: Station history from 1976 to 1997

Treesearch

R. H. Hamre

2005-01-01

Changing Times includes a review of early Station history, touches on changing societal perspectives and how things are now done differently, how the Station has changed physically and organizationally, technology transfer, a sampling of major characters, how some Station research has been applied, and a timeline of significant and/or interesting events. It includes...

Pilot evaluation of short-term changes in macular pigment and retinal sensitivity in different phenotypes of early age-related macular degeneration after carotenoid supplementation.

PubMed

Corvi, Federico; Souied, Eric H; Falfoul, Yousra; Georges, Anouk; Jung, Camille; Querques, Lea; Querques, Giuseppe

2017-06-01

To investigate the response of carotenoid supplementation in different phenotypes of early age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by measuring macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and retinal sensitivity. Consecutive patients with only medium/large drusen and only reticular pseudodrusen (RPD) and age-matched and sex-matched controls were enrolled. At baseline, participants underwent a complete ophthalmological examination including measurement of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), MPOD and retinal sensitivity. Patients were put on vitamin supplementation (lutein 10 mg/day, zeaxanthin 2 mg/day) and 3 months later underwent a repeated ophthalmological examination. Twenty patients with medium/large drusen, 19 with RPD and 15 control subjects were included. At baseline, in controls, mean MPOD and BCVA were significantly higher compared with RPD (p=0.001 and p=0.01) but similar to medium/large drusen (p=0.9 and p=0.4). Mean retinal sensitivity was significantly higher in controls compared with RPD and medium/large drusen (for all p<0.0001). After 3 months of carotenoid supplementation the mean MPOD significantly increased in RPD (p=0.002), thus showing no more difference compared with controls (p=0.3); no significant changes were found in mean retinal sensitivity and BCVA (p=0.3 and p=0.7). Medium/large drusen did not show significant changes on MPOD, retinal sensitivity and BCVA (p=0.5, p=0.7 and p=0.7, respectively). Patients with early AMD, especially RPD phenotype, show lower macular sensitivity and MPOD than controls. After supplementation, MPOD significantly increased in RPD. These results suggest different pathophysiology for RPD as compared with medium/large drusen and may open new ways to identifying further therapeutic targets in this phenotype of early AMD. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Multi-contamination (heavy metals, polychlorinated biphenyls and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) of littoral sediments and the associated ecological risk assessment in a large lake in France (Lake Bourget).

PubMed

Lécrivain, Nathalie; Aurenche, Vincent; Cottin, Nathalie; Frossard, Victor; Clément, Bernard

2018-04-01

The lake littoral sediment is exposed to a large array of contaminants that can exhibit significant spatial variability and challenge our ability to assess contamination at lake scale. In this study, littoral sediment contamination was characterized among ten different sites in a large peri-alpine lake (Lake Bourget) regarding three groups of contaminants: 6 heavy metals, 15 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and 7 polychlorinated biphenyls. The contamination profiles significantly varied among sites and differed from those previously reported for the deepest zone of the lake. An integrative approach including chemical and biological analyses was conducted to relate site contamination to ecological risk. The chemical approach consisted in mean PEC quotient calculation (average of the ratios of the contaminants concentration to their corresponding Probable Effect Concentration values) and revealed a low and heterogeneous toxicity of the contaminant mixture along the littoral. Biological analysis including both laboratory (microcosm assays) and in situ (Acetylcholine Esterase (AChE) and Glutathione S-Transferase (GST) activity measurements) experiments highlighted significant differences among sites both in the field and in laboratory assays suggesting a spatial variation of the biota response to contamination. Linear regressions were performed between mean PEC quotients and biological results to assess whether littoral ecological risk was explained by the contamination profiles. The results highly depended on the study benthic or pelagic compartment. Regarding autochthonous Corbicula fluminea, no significant relationship between mean PEC quotients and biomarker activity was found while a significant increase in AChE was observed on autochthonous chironomids, suggesting different stress among benthic organisms. Both AChE and GST in caged pelagic Daphnia magna showed a significant positive relationship with mean PEC quotients. This study underlines the importance of accounting for spatial variations in lake littoral sediment contamination and the need for performing an integrative approach coupling chemical, field and laboratory analyses to assess the ecological risk. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

High-dose tranexamic acid reduces intraoperative and postoperative blood loss in posterior lumbar interbody fusion.

PubMed

Kushioka, Junichi; Yamashita, Tomoya; Okuda, Shinya; Maeno, Takafumi; Matsumoto, Tomiya; Yamasaki, Ryoji; Iwasaki, Motoki

2017-03-01

OBJECTIVE Tranexamic acid (TXA), a synthetic antifibrinolytic drug, has been reported to reduce blood loss in orthopedic surgery, but there have been few reports of its use in spine surgery. Previous studies included limitations in terms of different TXA dose regimens, different levels and numbers of fused segments, and different surgical techniques. Therefore, the authors decided to strictly limit TXA dose regimens, surgical techniques, and fused segments in this study. There have been no reports of using TXA for prevention of intraoperative and postoperative blood loss in posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF). The purpose of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of high-dose TXA in reducing blood loss and its safety during single-level PLIF. METHODS The study was a nonrandomized, case-controlled trial. Sixty consecutive patients underwent single-level PLIF at a single institution. The first 30 patients did not receive TXA. The next 30 patients received 2000 mg of intravenous TXA 15 minutes before the skin incision was performed and received the same dose again 16 hours after the surgery. Intra- and postoperative blood loss was compared between the groups. RESULTS There were no statistically significant differences in preoperative parameters of age, sex, body mass index, preoperative diagnosis, or operating time. The TXA group experienced significantly less intraoperative blood loss (mean 253 ml) compared with the control group (mean 415 ml; p < 0.01). The TXA group also had significantly less postoperative blood loss over 40 hours (mean 321 ml) compared with the control group (mean 668 ml; p < 0.01). Total blood loss in the TXA group (mean 574 ml) was significantly lower than in the control group (mean 1080 ml; p < 0.01). From 2 hours to 40 hours, postoperative blood loss in the TXA group was consistently significantly lower. There were no perioperative complications, including thromboembolic events. CONCLUSIONS High-dose TXA significantly reduced both intra- and postoperative blood loss without causing any complications during or after single-level PLIF.

Influence of gender and types of sports training on QT variables in young elite athletes.

PubMed

Omiya, Kazuto; Sekizuka, Hiromitsu; Kida, Keisuke; Suzuki, Kengo; Akashi, Yoshihiro J; Ohba, Haruo; Musha, Haruki

2014-01-01

Influence of gender and sports training on QT variables such as QT interval and dispersion (QT dispersion: QTD) in young elite athletes were evaluated. Subjects included 104 male and 97 female Japanese elite athletes (mean age 21.6 years). Sports included basketball, fencing, gymnastics, judo, swimming, tennis, track and field and volleyball. Age-matched healthy non-athletes (32 men and 20 women) were enrolled as controls. QT measurements were manually obtained from a 12-lead resting electrocardiogram and QTD was calculated as the difference between the longest and shortest QT intervals. A corrected QT interval (QTc) was obtained using Bazett's formula. Subjects were divided into two groups; an endurance training group and a static training group on the basis of their training types. Maximum and minimum QTc were significantly longer in female athletes than in male athletes (max: 414.2 vs. 404.5 ms, min: 375.1 vs. 359.2 ms, p<0.0001 respectively), whereas QTc dispersion (QTcD) was shorter in female athletes than in male athletes (39.2 vs. 45.3 ms, p<0.0001). QTcD was significantly shorter in female athletes than in the female control group (39.2 vs. 45.2 ms, p<0.05). However, no statistically significant difference was observed between male athletes and the male control group. Male gymnasts exhibited significantly longer QTcD than the control group (p<0.01), but female gymnasts had significantly shorter QTcD than the control group (p<0.05). Maximum QTc intervals were prolonged in the male static training group compared with non-athletes, and QTcDs in the static training group were prolonged compared with the endurance training group. However, no significant difference was observed in the female group. In conclusion, both gender and different characteristics of sports training may affect QT variables even in young elite athletes. Vigorous static exercise training may independently prolong QT variables.

Endogenous Inhibition of Somatic Pain is Impaired in Girls with Irritable Bowel Syndrome Compared with Healthy Girls

PubMed Central

Williams, Amy E.; Heitkemper, Margaret; Self, Mariella M.; Czyzewski, Danita I.; Shulman, Robert J.

2013-01-01

Endogenous pain-inhibition is often deficient in adults with chronic pain conditions including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is unclear whether deficiencies in pain-inhibition are present in young children with IBS. The present study compared endogenous pain-inhibition, somatic pain threshold, and psychosocial distress in young girls with IBS versus controls. Girls with IBS did not show significant endogenous pain-inhibition of heat pain-threshold during a cold-pressor task in contrast to controls who had significant pain-inhibition. Girls with IBS did not differ from peers on measures of somatic pain but had more symptoms of depression, somatization, and anxiety than controls. When psychological variables were included as covariates the difference in pain-inhibition was no longer significant, although poor achieved power limits interpretation of these results. Higher-order cognitive processes including psychological variables may be contributing to observed pain-inhibition. In girls with IBS, pain-inhibition was positively related to the number of days without a bowel movement. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate deficiencies of endogenous pain-inhibition in young children with IBS. Findings have implications for better understanding of onset and maintenance of IBS and other chronic pain conditions. PMID:23685184

Addition of Histology to the Paris Classification of Pediatric Crohn Disease Alters Classification of Disease Location.

PubMed

Fernandes, Melissa A; Verstraete, Sofia G; Garnett, Elizabeth A; Heyman, Melvin B

2016-02-01

The aim of the study was to investigate the value of microscopic findings in the classification of pediatric Crohn disease (CD) by determining whether classification of disease changes significantly with inclusion of histologic findings. Sixty patients were randomly selected from a cohort of patients studied at the Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinic at the University of California, San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital. Two physicians independently reviewed the electronic health records of the included patients to determine the Paris classification for each patient by adhering to present guidelines and then by including microscopic findings. Macroscopic and combined disease location classifications were discordant in 34 (56.6%), with no statistically significant differences between groups. Interobserver agreement was higher in the combined classification (κ = 0.73, 95% confidence interval 0.65-0.82) as opposed to when classification was limited to macroscopic findings (κ = 0.53, 95% confidence interval 0.40-0.58). When evaluating the proximal upper gastrointestinal tract (Paris L4a), the interobserver agreement was better in macroscopic compared with the combined classification. Disease extent classifications differed significantly when comparing isolated macroscopic findings (Paris classification) with the combined scheme that included microscopy. Further studies are needed to determine which scheme provides more accurate representation of disease extent.

Decision-making and cognitive abilities: A review of associations between Iowa Gambling Task performance, executive functions, and intelligence.

PubMed

Toplak, Maggie E; Sorge, Geoff B; Benoit, André; West, Richard F; Stanovich, Keith E

2010-07-01

The Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) has been used to study decision-making differences in many different clinical and developmental samples. It has been suggested that IGT performance captures abilities that are separable from cognitive abilities, including executive functions and intelligence. The purpose of the current review was to examine studies that have explicitly examined the relationship between IGT performance and these cognitive abilities. We included 43 studies that reported correlational analyses with IGT performance, including measures of inhibition, working memory, and set-shifting as indices of executive functions, as well as measures of verbal, nonverbal, and full-scale IQ as indices of intelligence. Overall, only a small proportion of the studies reported a statistically significant relationship between IGT performance and these cognitive abilities. The majority of studies reported a non-significant relationship. Of the minority of studies that reported statistically significant effects, effect sizes were, at best, small to modest, and confidence intervals were large, indicating that considerable variability in performance on the IGT is not captured by current measures of executive function and intelligence. These findings highlight the separability between decision-making on the IGT and cognitive abilities, which is consistent with recent conceptualizations that differentiate rationality from intelligence. 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Depression Training Session With Consumer Educators to Reduce Stigmatizing Views and Improve Pharmacists’ Depression Care Attitudes and Practices

PubMed Central

Smits, Tim; Laekeman, Gert; Foulon, Veerle

2013-01-01

Objective. To measure the impact of a depression training day for pharmacists that included a 75-minute session with a consumer educator. Design. The training day included interactive lectures on depression; the effects and side effects of and indications for the use of antidepressants; adherence issues; non-drug treatment options for depression; and basic skills in communication. Pharmacists also participated in a session with a consumer educator and in counseling exercises that included role playing. Assessment. The study used a randomized, clustered, comparative design to measure pharmacists' stigma, attitudes, and current practice related to the provision of pharmaceutical care to people with depression. Mean scores for depression-care practice after the training session were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group. Analysis of the changes between baseline and postintervention measures in both the control and intervention groups confirmed a significant difference in the change in both social distance and practice but no significant difference in the change in attitude between the 2 groups of pharmacists. Conclusion. A continuing-education depression training day for pharmacists that involve consumer educators may improve the care delivered in the community pharmacy to people with depression. PMID:23966723

Cognitive behavioural therapy for tinnitus.

PubMed

Martinez Devesa, P; Waddell, A; Perera, R; Theodoulou, M

2007-01-24

Tinnitus is an auditory perception that can be described as the experience of sound, in the ear or in the head, in the absence of external acoustic stimulation (not usually audible to anyone else). At present no specific therapy for tinnitus is acknowledged to be satisfactory in all patients. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) uses relaxation, cognitive restructuring of the thoughts and exposure to exacerbating situations in order to promote habituation and may benefit tinnitus patients, as may the treatment of associated psychological conditions. To assess whether cognitive behavioural therapy is effective in the management of patients suffering from tinnitus. Our search included the Cochrane ENT Group Trials Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library Issue 2, 2006), MEDLINE and EMBASE. The last search date was June 2006. Randomised controlled trials in which patients with unilateral or bilateral tinnitus as main symptom received cognitive behavioural treatment. One review author (PMD) assessed every report identified by the search strategy. The four review authors assessed the methodological quality, applied inclusion/exclusion criteria and extracted data. Six trials comprising 285 participants were included. 1. subjective tinnitus loudness. CBT compared to a waiting list control group: we found no significant difference (Standardised Mean Difference (SMD) 0.06 (95% CI -0.25 to 0.37)). CBT compared to another intervention (Yoga, Education, Minimal Contact - Education and Education): we found no significant difference (SMD 0.1 (95% CI -0.22 to 0.42)).2. a) Depression. CBT compared to a waiting list control group: we found no significant difference in either group (SMD 0.29 (95%CI -0.04 to 0.63)). CBT compared to another intervention (Yoga, Education and Minimal Contact - Education): we found no significant difference (SMD 0.01 (95% CI -0.43 to 0.45)). b) Quality of life: CBT compared to a waiting list control group: we found a significant difference in favour of CBT versus the waiting list group (SMD 0.7 (95% CI 0.33 to 1.08)). CBT compared to another intervention (Education, Minimal Contact - Education and Education): we also found a significant difference between CBT and the other intervention control group (SMD 0.64 (95% CI 0.29 to 1.00)). There were no adverse/side effects reported in any trial. We did not find a significant difference in the subjective loudness of tinnitus, or in the associated depression. However we found a significant improvement in the quality of life (decrease of global tinnitus severity) of the participants, thus suggesting that cognitive behavioural therapy has an effect on the qualitative aspects of tinnitus and contributes positively to the management of tinnitus.

Trochanteric entry femoral nails yield better femoral version and lower revision rates-A large cohort multivariate regression analysis.

PubMed

Yoon, Richard S; Gage, Mark J; Galos, David K; Donegan, Derek J; Liporace, Frank A

2017-06-01

Intramedullary nailing (IMN) has become the standard of care for the treatment of most femoral shaft fractures. Different IMN options include trochanteric and piriformis entry as well as retrograde nails, which may result in varying degrees of femoral rotation. The objective of this study was to analyze postoperative femoral version between three types of nails and to delineate any significant differences in femoral version (DFV) and revision rates. Over a 10-year period, 417 patients underwent IMN of a diaphyseal femur fracture (AO/OTA 32A-C). Of these patients, 316 met inclusion criteria and obtained postoperative computed tomography (CT) scanograms to calculate femoral version and were thus included in the study. In this study, our main outcome measure was the difference in femoral version (DFV) between the uninjured limb and the injured limb. The effect of the following variables on DFV and revision rates were determined via univariate, multivariate, and ordinal regression analyses: gender, age, BMI, ethnicity, mechanism of injury, operative side, open fracture, and table type/position. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. A total of 316 patients were included. Piriformis entry nails made up the majority (n=141), followed by retrograde (n=108), then trochanteric entry nails (n=67). Univariate regression analysis revealed that a lower BMI was significantly associated with a lower DFV (p=0.006). Controlling for possible covariables, multivariate analysis yielded a significantly lower DFV for trochanteric entry nails than piriformis or retrograde nails (7.9±6.10 vs. 9.5±7.4 vs. 9.4±7.8°, p<0.05). Using revision as an endpoint, trochanteric entry nails also had a significantly lower revision rate, even when controlling for all other variables (p<0.05). Comparative, objective comparisons between DFV between different nails based on entry point revealed that trochanteric nails had a significantly lower DFV and a lower revision rate, even after regression analysis. However, this is not to state that the other nail types exhibited abnormal DFV. Translation to the clinical impact of a few degrees of DFV is also unknown. Future studies to more in-depth study the intricacies of femoral version may lead to improved technology in addition to potentially improved clinical outcomes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Chronotype differences in suicidal behavior and impulsivity among suicide attempters.

PubMed

Selvi, Yavuz; Aydin, Adem; Atli, Abdullah; Boysan, Murat; Selvi, Fatih; Besiroglu, Lutfullah

2011-03-01

Morning- and evening-type individuals differ on a number of psychological and biological variables. There has been increasing interest in the relationship between chronotype and personality traits. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between impulsivity and chronotype in suicide attempters. Eighty-nine suicide attempters were included in the study, and systematic information on suicide attempts was recorded. The Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire was applied to determine chronotype, and attempter impulsivity was measured by the total score of the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale. Significant differences between chronotype and impulsivity scores were found. Evening-type subjects reported significantly higher impulsivity scores than both neither- and morning-types. A significant association between chronotype and type of suicide attempt was detected. The largest proportion of violent suicide attempters were evening-type subjects. Violent suicide attempters also reported significantly higher impulsivity scores than nonviolent attempters. Previous studies have pointed out possible relations between eveningness and impulsivity. Current findings suggest that eveningness may be a risk factor for violent suicide attempts by increasing impulsivity.

The significance of Antarctica for studies of global geodynamics

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sutherland, R.

2007-01-01

Antarctica has geometric significance for global plate kinematic studies, because it links seafloor spreading systems of the African hemisphere (Indian and Atlantic Oceans) with those of the Pacific. Inferences of plate motions back to 44 Ma, around the onset of rapid spreading south of Australia and formation of a new boundary through New Zealand, are consistent with Antarctic rifting and formation of the Adare Basin during 44-26 Ma (i.e., no additional plate motions are required in the South Pacific). The time period 52-44 Ma represents a profound global and South Pacific tectonic change, and significant details remain unresolved. For 74 Ma a significant nonclosure of the South Pacific plate-motion circuit is identified if Antarctic motion is not included. Alternate inferences of motion through Antarctica during the interval 74-44 Ma imply significantly different subduction volumes and directions around the Pacific, and imply different relative motions between hotspots

The sound of a mobile phone ringing affects the complex reaction time of its owner

PubMed Central

Zajdel, Justyna; Zwolińska, Anna; Śmigielski, Janusz; Beling, Piotr; Cegliński, Tomasz; Nowak, Dariusz

2012-01-01

Introduction Mobile phone conversation decreases the ability to concentrate and impairs the attention necessary to perform complex activities, such as driving a car. Does the ringing sound of a mobile phone affect the driver's ability to perform complex sensory-motor activities? We compared a subject's reaction time while performing a test either with a mobile phone ringing or without. Material and methods The examination was performed on a PC-based reaction time self-constructed system Reactor. The study group consisted of 42 healthy students. The protocol included instruction, control without phone and a proper session with subject's mobile phone ringing. The terms of the study were standardised. Results There were significant differences (p < 0.001) in reaction time in control (597 ms), mobile (633 ms) and instruction session (673 ms). The differences in female subpopulation were also significant (p < 0.01). Women revealed the longest reaction time in instruction session (707 ms), were significantly quicker in mobile (657 ms, p < 0.01) and in control session (612 ms, p < 0.001). In men, the significant difference was recorded only between instruction (622 ms) and control session (573 ms, p < 0.01). The other differences were not significant (p > 0.08). Men proofed to complete significantly quicker than women in instruction (p < 0.01) and in mobile session (p < 0.05). Differences amongst the genders in control session was not significant (p > 0.05). Conclusions The results obtained proofed the ringing of a phone exerts a significant influence on complex reaction time and quality of performed task. PMID:23185201

Effect of nest design, passages, and hybrid on use of nest and production performance of layers in furnished cages.

PubMed

Wall, H; Tauson, R; Elwinger, K

2002-03-01

Production performance, including egg quality, and proportion of eggs laid in nests were studied in furnished experimental cages incorporating nests, litter baths, and perches. The study comprised a total of 972 hens of two genotypes: Lohmann Selected Leghorn (LSL) and Hy-Line White. The birds were studied from 20 to 80 wk of age, and conventional four-hen cages were included as a reference. In furnished cages for six hens, the effects of 30 or 50% vs. 100% nest bottom lining (Astro turf) were studied with LSL hens. Nest bottom lining had no significant effect on egg production or proportions of cracked or dirty eggs, but the use of nests was significantly higher in cages incorporating nests with 100% lining, compared with 50 or 30%. The two hybrids were compared when housed in large, group-furnished cages for 14 or 16 hens of two designs; with a rear partition with two pop holes or fully open, i.e., no rear partition. LSL birds produced significantly better and had a significantly lower proportion of cracked eggs. There was no difference between H- and O-cages, either in production or in egg quality. LSL birds laid a significantly lower proportion of eggs in the nests, especially in O-cages, implying a significant hybrid x cage interaction. When housed in conventional cages, the hybrids did not differ in proportion of cracked eggs but differed in production traits. It was concluded that with the present nest design, the proportion of nest bottom lining cannot be reduced without affecting birds' use of nests, but the proportion did not affect exterior egg quality. The effect of genotype should be considered in the further development of furnished cages.

Attempting to be active: Self-efficacy and barrier limitation differentiate activity levels of working mothers.

PubMed

Gierc, Madelaine; Locke, Sean; Jung, Mary; Brawley, Lawrence

2016-07-01

Working mothers are less physically active than working women without children and mothers who do not work. The purpose of this study was to examine concurrent self-regulatory efficacy and barriers to physical activity in a sample of working mothers. Women completed a mixed-methods survey which included measures of physical activity, concurrent self-regulatory efficacy, and barriers. Sufficiently active women experienced significantly greater concurrent self-regulatory efficacy and significantly less barrier limitation and frequency. No significant group differences were found for age, domestic duties performed, and children's extracurricular activities. Thematic analysis of barriers revealed six themes of common and unique factors, including limited time and family activities. © The Author(s) 2014.

Effect of organizational strategy on visual memory in patients with schizophrenia.

PubMed

Kim, Myung-Sun; Namgoong, Yoon; Youn, Tak

2008-08-01

The aim of the present study was to examine how copy organization mediated immediate recall among patients with schizophrenia using the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (ROCF). The Boston Qualitative Scoring System (BQSS) was applied for qualitative and quantitative analyses of ROCF performances. Subjects included 20 patients with schizophrenia and 20 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. During the copy condition, the schizophrenia group and the control group differed in fragmentation; during the immediate recall condition, the two groups differed in configural presence and planning; and during the delayed recall condition, they differed in several qualitative measurements, including configural presence, cluster presence/placement, detail presence/placement, fragmentation, planning, and neatness. The two groups also differed in several quantitative measurements, including immediate presence and accuracy, immediate retention, delayed retention, and organization. Although organizational strategies used during the copy condition mediated the difference between the two groups during the immediate recall condition, group also had a significant direct effect on immediate recall. Schizophrenia patients are deficient in visual memory, and a piecemeal approach to the figure and organizational deficit seem to be related to the visual memory deficit. But schizophrenia patients also appeared to have some memory problems, including retention and/or retrieval deficits.

The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio in children with atopic dermatitis: a case-control study.

PubMed

Dogru, M; Citli, R

2017-01-01

Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio(NLR) is a novel marker for the evaluation of inflammation and has not been evaluated previously in patients with AD. To investigate the relationship between NLR and the clinical findings of AD. Sixty-six children with AD were included in the study.The control group was included 66 children who have no allergic and chronic diseases.The immunoglobulin(Ig)E levels and complete blood count were measured. Skin prick tests were performed using the same antigens for all patients. NLR was not significant between the patient and control groups (p>0.05).The patients with AD were divided into 3 groups according to their SCORAD score as mild, moderate and severe AD.No statistically significant difference was present between groups in terms of demographic and clinical characteristics,eosinohil-lymphocyte ratio,eosinophil-neutrophil ratio,the percentage of eosinophil, IgE,the sensitivity of skin tests(p>0.05). However,NLR and sensitivity to house dust mite were significantly different among groups(respectively,p=0.037,p:0.043).SCORAD scores were weak positively correlated with NLR levels,eosinophil-lymphocyte ratio and the sensitivity of house dust mite (respectively,r:0.329;p:0.007,r:0.264;p:00035,r:0.325;p:0.008). We didn't found significant difference in term of mean NLR betweeen patients with AD and control group. NLR was found significantly higher in severe AD patients than mild AD patients.The house dust mite sensitivity, eosinohil-lymphocyte ratio and NLR were correlated with AD severity.

Factors influencing acute weight change in patients with schizophrenia treated with olanzapine, haloperidol, or risperidone.

PubMed

Basson, B R; Kinon, B J; Taylor, C C; Szymanski, K A; Gilmore, J A; Tollefson, G D

2001-04-01

Clinical factors predicting weight change in patients with schizophrenia and related disorders during acute treatment with the antipsychotic drugs olanzapine, risperidone, and haloperidol were sought through retrospective analyses. Six-week body-weight data from 2 trials, study 1 comparing olanzapine and haloperidol (N = 1,369) and study 2 olanzapine and risperidone (N = 268), were analyzed. Effects of 8 clinically relevant covariates--therapy, clinical outcome (Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale), baseline body mass index (BBMI), increased appetite, age, gender, race, and dose--on weight were compared. In study 1, olanzapine (vs. haloperidol) therapy, better clinical outcome, lower BBMI, and nonwhite race significantly affected weight gain. Effects of increased appetite and male gender on weight gain were significant for olanzapine but not for haloperidol. In study 2, better clinical outcome, lower BBMI, and younger age significantly affected weight gain. Increased appetite was more frequent during olanzapine treatment than during haloperidol, but not significantly different from risperidone. Significant differences in effect on weight change were found between olanzapine and haloperidol but not between olanzapine and risperidone. No evidence was found that lower antipsychotic drug doses were associated with lower weight gain. This report identifies predictive factors of acute weight change in patients with schizophrenia. Similar factors across antipsychotic drugs in predicting greater weight gain included better clinical outcome, low BBMI, and nonwhite race. Factors differing between conventional (haloperidol) and atypical (olanzapine) agents included increased appetite and gender. Choice of atypical antipsychotic drug (olanzapine vs. risperidone) was of minor importance with regard to influence on acute weight gain.

Distorted images of one's own body activates the prefrontal cortex and limbic/paralimbic system in young women: a functional magnetic resonance imaging study.

PubMed

Kurosaki, Mitsuhaya; Shirao, Naoko; Yamashita, Hidehisa; Okamoto, Yasumasa; Yamawaki, Shigeto

2006-02-15

Our aim was to study the gender differences in brain activation upon viewing visual stimuli of distorted images of one's own body. We performed functional magnetic resonance imaging on 11 healthy young men and 11 healthy young women using the "body image tasks" which consisted of fat, real, and thin shapes of the subject's own body. Comparison of the brain activation upon performing the fat-image task versus real-image task showed significant activation of the bilateral prefrontal cortex and left parahippocampal area including the amygdala in the women, and significant activation of the right occipital lobe including the primary and secondary visual cortices in the men. Comparison of brain activation upon performing the thin-image task versus real-image task showed significant activation of the left prefrontal cortex, left limbic area including the cingulate gyrus and paralimbic area including the insula in women, and significant activation of the occipital lobe including the left primary and secondary visual cortices in men. These results suggest that women tend to perceive distorted images of their own bodies by complex cognitive processing of emotion, whereas men tend to perceive distorted images of their own bodies by object visual processing and spatial visual processing.

Parenting stress and child behavior problems among clinic-referred youth: cross-cultural differences across the US and Korea.

PubMed

Chung, Kyong-Mee; Ebesutani, Chad; Bang, Hye Min; Kim, Joohee; Chorpita, Bruce F; Weisz, John R; Suh, Dongsoo; Byun, Heejung

2013-06-01

Due to increased multiculturalism in the US and abroad, there is a need for increased understanding of the different ways in which parenting stress is related to child problems across cultures. In the present study, we investigated (a) differences in reported parenting stress and childhood problem behaviors across a Korean (n = 71) and US (n = 71) sample, as well as (b) differences in the ways in which parenting stress and childhood problems were related across Korean and US children based on mothers' reports. Results revealed that Korean mothers reported significantly higher parenting stress yet significantly lower childhood problem behaviors compared to US mothers. In addition, mother-based reports of child problems were significantly associated with parenting stress in the US sample, but not in the Korean sample. Clinical implications and culturally-relevant issues relevant to these findings are addressed, including a potential under-reporting bias of child problems among Asian parents.

Psychosocial and Quality of Life Outcomes of Prosthetic Auricular Rehabilitation with CAD/CAM Technology

PubMed Central

Tam, Chi Keung; McGrath, Colman Patrick; Ho, Samuel Mun Yin; Pow, Edmond Ho Nang; Luk, Henry Wai Kuen; Cheung, Lim Kwong

2014-01-01

Introduction. The psychosocial and quality of life (QoL) of patients with deformed or missing ears are frequently compromised. The aim of this study is to develop innovative techniques using CAD/CAM technology in prosthetic auricular rehabilitation and provide improvement in the treatment outcomes, including their psychology and QoL. Methods. This is a preliminary clinical cohort study. Six patients requesting for auricular reconstruction were recruited and rehabilitated with implant-supported prosthesis using CAD/CAM technology. Different treatment outcomes including QoL and psychological changes were assessed at different time points. Results. A significant reduction in severity of depressive symptoms (P = 0.038) and an improving trend of satisfaction with life were found at 1 year postoperatively when compared with the preoperative findings. The domain scores in ‘‘Body image”, ‘‘Family/friends/strangers”, and ‘‘Mood” were also significantly higher (P < 0.05) at 1 year postoperatively than 1 week postoperatively. However, only 50% of the patients wear their auricular prosthesis regularly. Conclusion. This preliminary study has confirmed that implant-supported auricular prosthesis could induce improvement in the psychology and QoL with statistically significant differences in the domains of the body image, social interaction, and mood. Our present findings can inform research design and hypotheses generation of future studies. PMID:24799904

Melatonin for Atypical Antipsychotic-Induced Metabolic Adverse Effects: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

PubMed

Kamath, Ashwin; Rather, Zahoor Ahmad

2018-01-01

The objective of our study was to determine the effect of melatonin administration on atypical antipsychotic-induced metabolic adverse effects in patients with psychiatric disorders. A systematic search was performed in PUBMED, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost electronic databases. Randomized controlled trials studying the effect of melatonin on antipsychotic-induced metabolic adverse effects were identified and subjected to meta-analysis. Four studies were included in the meta-analysis, including 57 patients on melatonin and 61 patients on placebo. Melatonin produced a significant decrease in the diastolic blood pressure compared with placebo (mean difference = -4.44 [95% CI, -7.00 to -1.88]; p = 0.0007; I 2 = 13%), but not the systolic blood pressure (mean difference = -4.23 [95% CI, -8.11 to -0.36]; p = 0.03; I 2 = 0%). Although a decrease in the body mass index was seen in the melatonin group, the difference was not significant in the random-effects analysis model. To conclude, in patients on atypical antipsychotics, melatonin at a dose of up to 5 mg/day for a treatment duration of up to 12 weeks attenuated the rise in diastolic blood pressure compared with placebo but had no significant effects on other metabolic parameters.

Subjective response to antipsychotic treatment and compliance in schizophrenia. A naturalistic study comparing olanzapine, risperidone and haloperidol (EFESO Study)

PubMed Central

García-Cabeza, Ignacio; Gómez, Juan-Carlos; Sacristán, Jose A; Edgell, Eric; González de Chavez, Manuel

2001-01-01

Background In order to compare the effectiveness of different antipsychotic drugs in the treatment of schizophrenia it is very important to evaluate subjective response and compliance in patient cohorts treated according to routine clinical practice. Method Outpatients with schizophrenia entered this prospective, naturalistic study when they received a new prescription for an antipsychotic drug. Treatment assignment was based on purely clinical criteria, as the study did not include any experimental intervention. Patients treated with olanzapine, risperidone or haloperidol were included in the analysis. Subjective response was measured using the 10-item version of the Drug Attitude Inventory (DAI-10), and treatment compliance was measured using a physician-rated 4 point categorical scale. Results A total of 2128 patients initiated treatment (as monotherapy) with olanzapine, 417 with risperidone, and 112 with haloperidol. Olanzapine-treated patients had significantly higher DAI-10 scores and significantly better treatment compliance compared to both risperidone- and haloperidol-treated patients. Risperidone-treated patients had a significantly higher DAI-10 score compared to haloperidol-treated patients. Conclusion Subjective response and compliance were superior in olanzapine-treated patients, compared to patients treated with risperidone and haloperidol, in routine clinical practice. Differences in subjective response were explained largely, but not completely, by differences in incidence of EPS. PMID:11835695

Assessment of a respiratory face mask for capturing air pollutants and pathogens including human influenza and rhinoviruses.

PubMed

Zhou, S Steve; Lukula, Salimatu; Chiossone, Cory; Nims, Raymond W; Suchmann, Donna B; Ijaz, M Khalid

2018-03-01

Prevention of infection with airborne pathogens and exposure to airborne particulates and aerosols (environmental pollutants and allergens) can be facilitated through use of disposable face masks. The effectiveness of such masks for excluding pathogens and pollutants is dependent on the intrinsic ability of the masks to resist penetration by airborne contaminants. This study evaluated the relative contributions of a mask, valve, and Micro Ventilator on aerosol filtration efficiency of a new N95 respiratory face mask. The test mask was challenged, using standardized methods, with influenza A and rhinovirus type 14, bacteriophage ΦΧ174, Staphylococcus aureus ( S . aureus ), and model pollutants. The statistical significance of results obtained for different challenge microbial agents and for different mask configurations (masks with operational or nonoperational ventilation fans and masks with sealed Smart Valves) was assessed. The results demonstrate >99.7% efficiency of each test mask configuration for exclusion of influenza A virus, rhinovirus 14, and S . aureus and >99.3% efficiency for paraffin oil and sodium chloride (surrogates for PM 2.5 ). Statistically significant differences in effectiveness of the different mask configurations were not identified. The efficiencies of the masks for excluding smaller-size (i.e., rhinovirus and bacteriophage ΦΧ174) vs. larger-size microbial agents (influenza virus, S . aureus ) were not significantly different. The masks, with or without features intended for enhancing comfort, provide protection against both small- and large-size pathogens. Importantly, the mask appears to be highly efficient for filtration of pathogens, including influenza and rhinoviruses, as well as the fine particulates (PM 2.5 ) present in aerosols that represent a greater challenge for many types of dental and surgical masks. This renders this individual-use N95 respiratory mask an improvement over the former types of masks for protection against a variety of environmental contaminants including PM 2.5 and pathogens such as influenza and rhinoviruses.

Assessment of a respiratory face mask for capturing air pollutants and pathogens including human influenza and rhinoviruses

PubMed Central

Zhou, S. Steve; Lukula, Salimatu; Chiossone, Cory; Nims, Raymond W.; Suchmann, Donna B.

2018-01-01

Background Prevention of infection with airborne pathogens and exposure to airborne particulates and aerosols (environmental pollutants and allergens) can be facilitated through use of disposable face masks. The effectiveness of such masks for excluding pathogens and pollutants is dependent on the intrinsic ability of the masks to resist penetration by airborne contaminants. This study evaluated the relative contributions of a mask, valve, and Micro Ventilator on aerosol filtration efficiency of a new N95 respiratory face mask. Methods The test mask was challenged, using standardized methods, with influenza A and rhinovirus type 14, bacteriophage ΦΧ174, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and model pollutants. The statistical significance of results obtained for different challenge microbial agents and for different mask configurations (masks with operational or nonoperational ventilation fans and masks with sealed Smart Valves) was assessed. Results The results demonstrate >99.7% efficiency of each test mask configuration for exclusion of influenza A virus, rhinovirus 14, and S. aureus and >99.3% efficiency for paraffin oil and sodium chloride (surrogates for PM2.5). Statistically significant differences in effectiveness of the different mask configurations were not identified. The efficiencies of the masks for excluding smaller-size (i.e., rhinovirus and bacteriophage ΦΧ174) vs. larger-size microbial agents (influenza virus, S. aureus) were not significantly different. Conclusions The masks, with or without features intended for enhancing comfort, provide protection against both small- and large-size pathogens. Importantly, the mask appears to be highly efficient for filtration of pathogens, including influenza and rhinoviruses, as well as the fine particulates (PM2.5) present in aerosols that represent a greater challenge for many types of dental and surgical masks. This renders this individual-use N95 respiratory mask an improvement over the former types of masks for protection against a variety of environmental contaminants including PM2.5 and pathogens such as influenza and rhinoviruses. PMID:29707364

Occupational therapy for stroke patients not admitted to hospital: a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Walker, M F; Gladman, J R; Lincoln, N B; Siemonsma, P; Whiteley, T

1999-07-24

Patients who have a stroke are not always admitted to hospital, and 22-60% remain in the community, frequently without coordinated rehabilitation. We aimed to assess the efficacy of an occupational therapy intervention for patients with stroke who were not admitted to hospital. In this single-blind randomised controlled trial, consecutive stroke patients on a UK community register in Nottingham and Derbyshire were allocated randomly to up to 5 months of occupational therapy at home or to no intervention (control group) 1 month after their stroke. The aim of the occupational therapy was to encourage independence in personal and instrumental activities of daily living. Patients were assessed on outcome measures at baseline (before randomisation) and at 6 months. The primary outcome measure was the score on the extended activities of daily living (EADL) scale at 6 months. Other outcome measures included the Barthel index, the general health questionnaire 28, the carer strain index, and the London handicap scale. All assessments were done by an independent assessor who was unaware of treatment allocation. The analysis included only data from completed questionnaires. 185 patients were included: 94 in the occupational therapy group and 91 in the control group. 22 patients were not assessed at 6 months. At follow-up, patients who had occupational therapy had significantly higher median scores than the controls on: the EADL scale (16 vs 12, p<0.01, estimated difference 3 [95% CI 1 to 4]); the Barthel index (20 vs 18, p<0.01, difference 1, [0-1]); the carer strain index (1 vs 3, p<0.05, difference 1 [0 to 2]); and the London handicap scale (76 vs 65, p<0.05, difference 7, [0.3 to 13.5]). There were no significant differences on the general health questionnaire between the patient or carer. Occupational therapy significantly reduced disability and handicap in patients with stroke who were not admitted to hospital.

Racial differences in sudden cardiac death

PubMed Central

Fender, Erin A.; Henrikson, Charles A.; Tereshchenko, Larisa

2014-01-01

There is an increased risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), in African Americans, the basis of which is likely multifactorial. African Americans have higher rates of traditional cardiac risk factors including hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy, diabetes, coronary heart disease, and heart failure. There are also significant disparities in health care delivery. While these factors undoubtedly affect health outcomes, there is also growing evidence that genetics may have a significant impact as well. In this paper, we discuss data and hypotheses in support of both sides of the controversy around racial differences in SCD/SCA. PMID:25155390

Comparison of cervical dysplasia treatment with leep-loop method and CO2 laser vaporization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wozniak, Jakub; Rzymski, Pawel; Opala, Tomasz; Wilczak, Maciej; Sajdak, Stefan

2003-10-01

There are several methods of treating cervical dysplasia, including surgical and electric conisation, laservaporisation. The aim of our study was to evaluate leep-loop method and laservaporisation wtih CO2 laser. Material consisted of 49 women, 28 underwent leep-loop conisation and 21 lavervaporisation. The effectiveness of laser treatment was 90,4% and with leep-loop 96,4%, but the difference was not statistically significant. Mean time of wound healing and frequency of pain was shorter after laser treatment, but the differences were not statistically significant. Conclusions: Effect treatment with both methods is comparable.

Difference in postural control between patients with functional and mechanical ankle instability.

PubMed

Chen, Henry; Li, Hong-Yun; Zhang, Jian; Hua, Ying-Hui; Chen, Shi-Yi

2014-10-01

Lateral ankle sprain is one of the most common injuries. Since the structural and pathological differences in mechanical ankle instability (MAI) and functional ankle instability (FAI) may not be the same, it may be better to treat these as separate groups. The purpose of this study was to compare the difference in postural sway between MAI and FAI in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Twenty-six patients with CAI and 14 healthy control participants were included in the study. The CAI patients were subdivided into MAI (15 patients) and FAI (11 patients) groups. Patients who were diagnosed with lateral ankle ligaments rupture by magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography were assigned to the MAI group. All participants performed single-limb postural sway tests 3 times on each leg with eyes closed and open. The average distances from the mean center of pressure position in the mediolateral and anteroposterior directions were recorded and compared among the 3 groups. The unstable ankles in the MAI group showed significantly greater postural sway in the anterior, posterior, and medial directions compared with those in the control group with eyes closed. With eyes open, significantly greater postural sway was found in the anterior direction. In the FAI group, no difference was found in postural sway compared with those in the control group. The MAI group showed significantly greater postural sway in the anterior direction compared with the FAI group with eyes closed and open. No significant difference in postural sway was found between the unstable and stable ankles in the MAI or FAI groups, with or without vision. Patients with MAI have deficits in postural control, especially in anterior-posterior directions. However, no difference was found in postural sway in patients with FAI compared with healthy people. As MAI patients suffer from deficits in postural control, balance training should be applied in those patients. In addition, special training should also include the contralateral side after a unilateral ankle ligament injured. © The Author(s) 2014.

Crown traits of coniferous trees and their relation to shade tolerance can differ with leaf type: a biophysical demonstration using computed tomography scanning data.

PubMed

Dutilleul, Pierre; Han, Liwen; Valladares, Fernando; Messier, Christian

2015-01-01

Plant light interception and shade tolerance are intrinsically related in that they involve structural, morphological and physiological adaptations to manage light capture for photosynthetic utilization, in order to sustain survival, development and reproduction. At the scale of small-size trees, crown traits related to structural geometry of branching pattern and space occupancy through phyllotaxis can be accurately evaluated in 3D, using computed tomography (CT) scanning data. We demonstrate this by scrutinizing the crowns of 15 potted miniature conifers of different species or varieties, classified in two groups based on leaf type (10 needlelike, 5 scalelike); we also test whether mean values of crown traits measured from CT scanning data and correlations with a shade tolerance index (STI) differ between groups. Seven crown traits, including fractal dimensions (FD1: smaller scales, FD2: larger scales) and leaf areas, were evaluated for all 15 miniature conifers; an average silhouette-to-total-area ratio was also calculated for each of the 10 needlelike-leaf conifers. Between-group differences in mean values are significant (P < 0.05) for STI, FD1, FD2, and the average leaf area displayed (ĀD). Between-group differences in sign and strength of correlations are observed. For example, the correlation between STI and FD1 is negative and significant (P < 0.10) for the needlelike-leaf group, but is positive and significant (P < 0.05) for the miniature conifers with scalelike leaves, which had lower STI and higher FD1 on average in our study; the positive correlation between STI and ĀD is significant (P < 0.05) for the scalelike-leaf group, and very moderate for the needlelike-leaf one. A contrasting physical attachment of the leaves to branches may explain part of the between-group differences. Our findings open new avenues for the understanding of fundamental plant growth processes; the information gained could be included in a multi-scale approach to tree crown modeling.

Comparisons of the Efficacy of Alpha Glucosidase Inhibitors on Type 2 Diabetes Patients between Asian and Caucasian

PubMed Central

Cai, Xiaoling; Han, Xueyao; Luo, Yingying; Ji, Linong

2013-01-01

Background To compare the efficacy of glycemic control and insulin secretion of alpha glucosidase inhibitors (AGI) on type 2 diabetes patients between Asian and Caucasian. Methodology/Principal Findings The MEDLINE®, EMBASE®, CENTRAL were searched and qualified studies in Asian and Caucasian population comparing AGI treatment with placebo or other oral anti-diabetic drugs in type 2 diabetic patients were included. Totally 58 qualified studies were included. When AGI treatment was compared with placebo, a significant difference in HbA1c decline from baseline favoring AGI treatment was found in Asian (weighted mean difference (WMD), −0.50%; 95% CI, −0.66% to −0.34%) and in Caucasian a significant difference in HbA1c decline favoring AGI treatment was also found (WMD, −0.68%; 95% CI, −0.76% to −0.60%). In Asian, fasting plasma glucose was reduced with AGI treatment compared with placebo (WMD, −0.53 mmol/L; 95% CI, −0.91 to −0.14 mmol/L) and in Caucasian there was also a significant difference in FPG changes favoring AGI therapy (WMD, −0.88 mmol/L; 95% CI, −1.00 to −0.77 mmol/L). Studies in Asian showed a significant difference in fasting insulin changes favoring AGI treatment (WMD, −0.78 uU/ml; 95% CI, −0.96 to −0.59 uU/ml). While in Caucasian fasting insulin was decreased without significance with AGI treatment (WMD-1.24 uU/ml; 95% CI, −2.51 to 0.04 uU/ml). Body weight was decreased with AGI treatment in Asian (WMD, −1.00 kg; 95% CI, −1.69 to −0.31 kg) and was also decreased with AGI treatment in Caucasian (WMD, −0.73 kg; 95% CI, −1.13 to −0.33 kg). Conclusions/Significance According to results from this meta-analysis, the efficacy in glucose lowering, body weight reduction and insulin secretion decreasing of AGI treatment in Asian were comparable with those in Caucasian. PMID:24236131

Timing of longleaf seedling release from over topping hardwoods: A look 30 years later

Treesearch

William D. Boyer

1985-01-01

Significant differences in longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) growth among early and delayed seedling release treatments were recorded at age 10, but these differences had disappeared upon reexamination at age 31.A study begun in 1949 included six release treatments: complete seedling release from overtopping hardwoods at ages 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8 years,...

Douglas-fir survival and growth in response to spring planting date and depth

Treesearch

R. O. Strothmann

1971-01-01

Douglas-fir seedlings were planted by four methods in late February and late March on hot, south-facing slopes in northwestern California. Besides standard planting, the techniques used included deep planting at two different depths, and shading the lower stem. The differences in survival after 3 growing seasons were not statistically significant, but deep planting had...

Grade-Level Differences in Future-Oriented Self-Concept during Early Adolescence: Potential Relevance to School Nursing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stoddard, Sarah A.; Pierce, Jennifer; Schmidt, Carissa J.

2016-01-01

The middle school and early high school years are a time of significant development, including an increasing ability to envision oneself in the future. Little is known about how adolescents' future-oriented self-concept (i.e., possible selves) differs across grade levels, although this knowledge may aid in establishing rapport with students and…

Tabulation of asbestos-related terminology

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lowers, Heather; Meeker, Greg

2002-01-01

The term asbestos has been defined in numerous publications including many State and Federal regulations. The definition of asbestos often varies depending on the source or publication in which it is used. Differences in definitions also exist for the asbestos-related terms acicular, asbestiform, cleavage, cleavage fragment, fiber, fibril, fibrous, and parting. An inexperienced reader of the asbestos literature would have difficulty understanding these differences and grasping many of the subtleties that exist in the literature and regulatory language. Disagreement among workers from the industrial, medical, mineralogical, and regulatory communities regarding these definitions has fueled debate as to their applicability to various morphological structures and chemical compositions that exist in the amphibole and serpentine groups of minerals. This debate has significant public health, economic and legal implications. This report summarizes asbestos-related definitions taken from a variety of academic, industrial, and regulatory sources. This summary is by no means complete but includes the majority of significant definitions currently applied in the discipline.

Differences in anxiety and depression between male and female caregivers of children with a disorder of sex development.

PubMed

Wolfe-Christensen, Cortney; Fedele, David A; Mullins, Larry L; Lakshmanan, Yegappan; Wisniewski, Amy B

2014-07-01

To examine whether male and female caregivers of children with a disorder of sex development (DSD) differ in levels of anxious and depressive symptoms. Participants included 80 caregivers (40 males, 40 females) of 40 children with a DSD. Children were categorized based on illness characteristics including ambiguous genitalia, life-threatening, and life-threatening with ambiguous genitalia. Caregivers completed measures of anxious and depressive symptoms. A significant caregiver × diagnosis interaction for anxious symptoms emerged, with male caregivers of children with both ambiguous genitalia and a life-threatening condition reporting significantly lower levels of anxious symptoms than female caregivers of the same children. The findings are surprising because of the low level of anxious symptoms reported by male caregivers of children with a complex DSD. It is possible that they have disengaged themselves from the child and/or diagnosis, causing their female counterparts to take on more responsibility.

Comorbidity in Dupuytren disease.

PubMed

Degreef, I

2016-09-01

In this report, a possible association between Dupuytren's disease (DD) and other health problems was investigated. The health problems included in this study are : cardiac ischemia, hypertension, hyper-lipidemia, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, malignancy, asthma and COPD. The data of 725 patients with DD were collected from -Intego, a database including all morbidity presented to the General Practitioners (GPs) in Flanders. The control group of 2900 age and sex matched non-DD patients was selected from the same database. A possible influence of severity of DD was evaluated by comparing the data of 333 patients operated for DD with the group of Integopatients with DD. This study showed a significant association of every single studied health condition with DD. Comparison of the -operated group with the group from Intego with DD, demonstrated only some significant associations, a difference which may be explained by the difference in data collection.

Cross-cultural and gender differences in childhood amnesia.

PubMed

MacDonald, S; Uesiliana, K; Hayne, H

2000-11-01

In two experiments, we examined cross-cultural and gender differences in adults' earliest memories. To do this, we asked male and female adults from three cultural backgrounds (New Zealand European, New Zealand Maori, and Asian) to describe and date their earliest personal memory. Consistent with past research, Asian adults reported significantly later memories than European adults, however this effect was due exclusively to the extremely late memories reported by Asian females. Maori adults, whose traditional culture includes a strong emphasis on the past, reported significantly earlier memories than adults from the other two cultural groups. Across all three cultures, the memories reported by women contained more information than the memories reported by men. These findings support the view that the age and content of our earliest memories are influenced by a wide range of factors including our culture and our gender. These factors must be incorporated into any comprehensive theory of autobiographical memory.

Sex-stratified genome-wide association studies including 270,000 individuals show sexual dimorphism in genetic loci for anthropometric traits.

PubMed

Randall, Joshua C; Winkler, Thomas W; Kutalik, Zoltán; Berndt, Sonja I; Jackson, Anne U; Monda, Keri L; Kilpeläinen, Tuomas O; Esko, Tõnu; Mägi, Reedik; Li, Shengxu; Workalemahu, Tsegaselassie; Feitosa, Mary F; Croteau-Chonka, Damien C; Day, Felix R; Fall, Tove; Ferreira, Teresa; Gustafsson, Stefan; Locke, Adam E; Mathieson, Iain; Scherag, Andre; Vedantam, Sailaja; Wood, Andrew R; Liang, Liming; Steinthorsdottir, Valgerdur; Thorleifsson, Gudmar; Dermitzakis, Emmanouil T; Dimas, Antigone S; Karpe, Fredrik; Min, Josine L; Nicholson, George; Clegg, Deborah J; Person, Thomas; Krohn, Jon P; Bauer, Sabrina; Buechler, Christa; Eisinger, Kristina; Bonnefond, Amélie; Froguel, Philippe; Hottenga, Jouke-Jan; Prokopenko, Inga; Waite, Lindsay L; Harris, Tamara B; Smith, Albert Vernon; Shuldiner, Alan R; McArdle, Wendy L; Caulfield, Mark J; Munroe, Patricia B; Grönberg, Henrik; Chen, Yii-Der Ida; Li, Guo; Beckmann, Jacques S; Johnson, Toby; Thorsteinsdottir, Unnur; Teder-Laving, Maris; Khaw, Kay-Tee; Wareham, Nicholas J; Zhao, Jing Hua; Amin, Najaf; Oostra, Ben A; Kraja, Aldi T; Province, Michael A; Cupples, L Adrienne; Heard-Costa, Nancy L; Kaprio, Jaakko; Ripatti, Samuli; Surakka, Ida; Collins, Francis S; Saramies, Jouko; Tuomilehto, Jaakko; Jula, Antti; Salomaa, Veikko; Erdmann, Jeanette; Hengstenberg, Christian; Loley, Christina; Schunkert, Heribert; Lamina, Claudia; Wichmann, H Erich; Albrecht, Eva; Gieger, Christian; Hicks, Andrew A; Johansson, Asa; Pramstaller, Peter P; Kathiresan, Sekar; Speliotes, Elizabeth K; Penninx, Brenda; Hartikainen, Anna-Liisa; Jarvelin, Marjo-Riitta; Gyllensten, Ulf; Boomsma, Dorret I; Campbell, Harry; Wilson, James F; Chanock, Stephen J; Farrall, Martin; Goel, Anuj; Medina-Gomez, Carolina; Rivadeneira, Fernando; Estrada, Karol; Uitterlinden, André G; Hofman, Albert; Zillikens, M Carola; den Heijer, Martin; Kiemeney, Lambertus A; Maschio, Andrea; Hall, Per; Tyrer, Jonathan; Teumer, Alexander; Völzke, Henry; Kovacs, Peter; Tönjes, Anke; Mangino, Massimo; Spector, Tim D; Hayward, Caroline; Rudan, Igor; Hall, Alistair S; Samani, Nilesh J; Attwood, Antony Paul; Sambrook, Jennifer G; Hung, Joseph; Palmer, Lyle J; Lokki, Marja-Liisa; Sinisalo, Juha; Boucher, Gabrielle; Huikuri, Heikki; Lorentzon, Mattias; Ohlsson, Claes; Eklund, Niina; Eriksson, Johan G; Barlassina, Cristina; Rivolta, Carlo; Nolte, Ilja M; Snieder, Harold; Van der Klauw, Melanie M; Van Vliet-Ostaptchouk, Jana V; Gejman, Pablo V; Shi, Jianxin; Jacobs, Kevin B; Wang, Zhaoming; Bakker, Stephan J L; Mateo Leach, Irene; Navis, Gerjan; van der Harst, Pim; Martin, Nicholas G; Medland, Sarah E; Montgomery, Grant W; Yang, Jian; Chasman, Daniel I; Ridker, Paul M; Rose, Lynda M; Lehtimäki, Terho; Raitakari, Olli; Absher, Devin; Iribarren, Carlos; Basart, Hanneke; Hovingh, Kees G; Hyppönen, Elina; Power, Chris; Anderson, Denise; Beilby, John P; Hui, Jennie; Jolley, Jennifer; Sager, Hendrik; Bornstein, Stefan R; Schwarz, Peter E H; Kristiansson, Kati; Perola, Markus; Lindström, Jaana; Swift, Amy J; Uusitupa, Matti; Atalay, Mustafa; Lakka, Timo A; Rauramaa, Rainer; Bolton, Jennifer L; Fowkes, Gerry; Fraser, Ross M; Price, Jackie F; Fischer, Krista; Krjutå Kov, Kaarel; Metspalu, Andres; Mihailov, Evelin; Langenberg, Claudia; Luan, Jian'an; Ong, Ken K; Chines, Peter S; Keinanen-Kiukaanniemi, Sirkka M; Saaristo, Timo E; Edkins, Sarah; Franks, Paul W; Hallmans, Göran; Shungin, Dmitry; Morris, Andrew David; Palmer, Colin N A; Erbel, Raimund; Moebus, Susanne; Nöthen, Markus M; Pechlivanis, Sonali; Hveem, Kristian; Narisu, Narisu; Hamsten, Anders; Humphries, Steve E; Strawbridge, Rona J; Tremoli, Elena; Grallert, Harald; Thorand, Barbara; Illig, Thomas; Koenig, Wolfgang; Müller-Nurasyid, Martina; Peters, Annette; Boehm, Bernhard O; Kleber, Marcus E; März, Winfried; Winkelmann, Bernhard R; Kuusisto, Johanna; Laakso, Markku; Arveiler, Dominique; Cesana, Giancarlo; Kuulasmaa, Kari; Virtamo, Jarmo; Yarnell, John W G; Kuh, Diana; Wong, Andrew; Lind, Lars; de Faire, Ulf; Gigante, Bruna; Magnusson, Patrik K E; Pedersen, Nancy L; Dedoussis, George; Dimitriou, Maria; Kolovou, Genovefa; Kanoni, Stavroula; Stirrups, Kathleen; Bonnycastle, Lori L; Njølstad, Inger; Wilsgaard, Tom; Ganna, Andrea; Rehnberg, Emil; Hingorani, Aroon; Kivimaki, Mika; Kumari, Meena; Assimes, Themistocles L; Barroso, Inês; Boehnke, Michael; Borecki, Ingrid B; Deloukas, Panos; Fox, Caroline S; Frayling, Timothy; Groop, Leif C; Haritunians, Talin; Hunter, David; Ingelsson, Erik; Kaplan, Robert; Mohlke, Karen L; O'Connell, Jeffrey R; Schlessinger, David; Strachan, David P; Stefansson, Kari; van Duijn, Cornelia M; Abecasis, Gonçalo R; McCarthy, Mark I; Hirschhorn, Joel N; Qi, Lu; Loos, Ruth J F; Lindgren, Cecilia M; North, Kari E; Heid, Iris M

2013-06-01

Given the anthropometric differences between men and women and previous evidence of sex-difference in genetic effects, we conducted a genome-wide search for sexually dimorphic associations with height, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist-to-hip-ratio (133,723 individuals) and took forward 348 SNPs into follow-up (additional 137,052 individuals) in a total of 94 studies. Seven loci displayed significant sex-difference (FDR<5%), including four previously established (near GRB14/COBLL1, LYPLAL1/SLC30A10, VEGFA, ADAMTS9) and three novel anthropometric trait loci (near MAP3K1, HSD17B4, PPARG), all of which were genome-wide significant in women (P<5×10(-8)), but not in men. Sex-differences were apparent only for waist phenotypes, not for height, weight, BMI, or hip circumference. Moreover, we found no evidence for genetic effects with opposite directions in men versus women. The PPARG locus is of specific interest due to its role in diabetes genetics and therapy. Our results demonstrate the value of sex-specific GWAS to unravel the sexually dimorphic genetic underpinning of complex traits.

The effectiveness of nurses' ability to interpret basic electrocardiogram strips accurately using different learning modalities.

PubMed

Spiva, LeeAnna; Johnson, Kimberly; Robertson, Bethany; Barrett, Darcy T; Jarrell, Nicole M; Hunter, Donna; Mendoza, Inocencia

2012-02-01

Historically, the instructional method of choice has been traditional lecture or face-to-face education; however, changes in the health care environment, including resource constraints, have necessitated examination of this practice. A descriptive pre-/posttest method was used to determine the effectiveness of alternative teaching modalities on nurses' knowledge and confidence in electrocardiogram (EKG) interpretation. A convenience sample of 135 nurses was recruited in an integrated health care system in the Southeastern United States. Nurses attended an instructor-led course, an online learning (e-learning) platform with no study time or 1 week of study time, or an e-learning platform coupled with a 2-hour post-course instructor-facilitated debriefing with no study time or 1 week of study time. Instruments included a confidence scale, an online EKG test, and a course evaluation. Statistically significant differences in knowledge and confidence were found for individual groups after nurses participated in the intervention. Statistically significant differences were found in pre-knowledge and post-confidence when groups were compared. Organizations that use various instructional methods to educate nurses in EKG interpretation can use different teaching modalities without negatively affecting nurses' knowledge or confidence in this skill. Copyright 2012, SLACK Incorporated.

The three constituencies of the state: why the state has lost unifying energy.

PubMed

King, Desmond; Le Galès, Patrick

2017-11-01

We address resurgent populism by examining structural processes of state transformation in the UK, the US and France. Scholars stress the 'unifying energy of the state', a set of institutions and policies capable of limiting inequalities and defending legal regimes. One characteristic of modern Western statehood were packages of policies designed to integrate social groups and territories in part by ensuring common standards of provision and social citizenship across the nation state. This echoes James Scott's critical analysis of the modernist project of the state (1998). This 'unifying energy' had different origins including nationalist movements, combatting external influence or powers, war, and preparing citizens for the rigours of industrialization. Overcoming class differences and territorial differences (including cultural, social and economic differences) was a major source of mobilization to feed this 'unifying energy of the state' in France, Italy or Spain for instance. Political and cultural identities are related in significant part to respective nation states. We argue that this 'unifying energy' was an essential component of statehood in Europe and in the US. It is now largely lost. We explain why and the significance of its displacement. © London School of Economics and Political Science 2017.

Antibiotic treatment of bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy: multiple meta-analyses and dilemmas in interpretation.

PubMed

Varma, Rajesh; Gupta, Janesh K

2006-01-01

There is considerable evidence to show an association between genital tract infections, such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), and preterm delivery (PTD). Meta-analyses to date have shown screening and treating BV in pregnancy does not prevent PTD. This casts doubt on a cause and effect relationship between BV and PTD. However, the meta-analyses reported significant clinical, methodological and statistical heterogeneity of the included studies. We therefore undertook a repeat meta-analysis, included recently published trials, and applied strict criteria on data extraction. We meta-analysed low and high-risk pregnancies separately. We found that screening and treating BV in low-risk pregnancies produced a statistically significant reduction in spontaneous PTD (RR 0.73; 95% CI 0.55-0.98). This beneficial effect was not observed in high-risk or combined risk groups. The differences in antibiotic sensitivity between high and low risk groups may suggest differing causal contributions of the infectious process to PTD. The evidence, along with prior knowledge of differing predisposing factors and prognosis between these risk groups, supports the hypothesis that PTD in high and low risk pregnant women are different entities and not linear extremes of the same syndrome.

Efficacy of peeling during different periods of the menstrual cycle on acne.

PubMed

Bulbul Baskan, Emel; Tilki Günay, Işıl; Saricaoglu, Hayriye

2017-10-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of 50% glycolic acid peeling performed at different phases of menstruation on acne. This study included 30 patients with mild-to-moderate acne. Those with regular menstrual cycles and no history or laboratory evidence of hormonal pathology, hirsutism were selected. Thirty patients were divided in three groups. The first group received peeling applications in the first 7 days of menstruation; the second group received the peel between 10 and 14 days; and the third group received the peel during the last 10 days of menstruation. The 30 female patients included in study. All patients' menstrual cycles were regular. All groups were homogenous in terms of initial acne severity scores. Acne severity scores decreased in all groups after 3 months of therapy; statistically significant differences were achieved only in the second group. The results of our study suggest that chemical peeling administered during ovulation provides the most significant benefit for acne lesions. Ovulation is the period when estrogen reaches its highest level. Estrogen decreases sebum production through different mechanisms. The beneficial effects of estrogen on acne and healing in combination with those of chemical peeling may cause synergistic therapeutic effects with pronounced results.

Sex-stratified Genome-wide Association Studies Including 270,000 Individuals Show Sexual Dimorphism in Genetic Loci for Anthropometric Traits

PubMed Central

Jackson, Anne U.; Monda, Keri L.; Kilpeläinen, Tuomas O.; Esko, Tõnu; Mägi, Reedik; Li, Shengxu; Workalemahu, Tsegaselassie; Feitosa, Mary F.; Croteau-Chonka, Damien C.; Day, Felix R.; Fall, Tove; Ferreira, Teresa; Gustafsson, Stefan; Locke, Adam E.; Mathieson, Iain; Scherag, Andre; Vedantam, Sailaja; Wood, Andrew R.; Liang, Liming; Steinthorsdottir, Valgerdur; Thorleifsson, Gudmar; Dermitzakis, Emmanouil T.; Dimas, Antigone S.; Karpe, Fredrik; Min, Josine L.; Nicholson, George; Clegg, Deborah J.; Person, Thomas; Krohn, Jon P.; Bauer, Sabrina; Buechler, Christa; Eisinger, Kristina; Bonnefond, Amélie; Froguel, Philippe; Hottenga, Jouke-Jan; Prokopenko, Inga; Waite, Lindsay L.; Harris, Tamara B.; Smith, Albert Vernon; Shuldiner, Alan R.; McArdle, Wendy L.; Caulfield, Mark J.; Munroe, Patricia B.; Grönberg, Henrik; Chen, Yii-Der Ida; Li, Guo; Beckmann, Jacques S.; Johnson, Toby; Thorsteinsdottir, Unnur; Teder-Laving, Maris; Khaw, Kay-Tee; Wareham, Nicholas J.; Zhao, Jing Hua; Amin, Najaf; Oostra, Ben A.; Kraja, Aldi T.; Province, Michael A.; Cupples, L. Adrienne; Heard-Costa, Nancy L.; Kaprio, Jaakko; Ripatti, Samuli; Surakka, Ida; Collins, Francis S.; Saramies, Jouko; Tuomilehto, Jaakko; Jula, Antti; Salomaa, Veikko; Erdmann, Jeanette; Hengstenberg, Christian; Loley, Christina; Schunkert, Heribert; Lamina, Claudia; Wichmann, H. Erich; Albrecht, Eva; Gieger, Christian; Hicks, Andrew A.; Johansson, Åsa; Pramstaller, Peter P.; Kathiresan, Sekar; Speliotes, Elizabeth K.; Penninx, Brenda; Hartikainen, Anna-Liisa; Jarvelin, Marjo-Riitta; Gyllensten, Ulf; Boomsma, Dorret I.; Campbell, Harry; Wilson, James F.; Chanock, Stephen J.; Farrall, Martin; Goel, Anuj; Medina-Gomez, Carolina; Rivadeneira, Fernando; Estrada, Karol; Uitterlinden, André G.; Hofman, Albert; Zillikens, M. Carola; den Heijer, Martin; Kiemeney, Lambertus A.; Maschio, Andrea; Hall, Per; Tyrer, Jonathan; Teumer, Alexander; Völzke, Henry; Kovacs, Peter; Tönjes, Anke; Mangino, Massimo; Spector, Tim D.; Hayward, Caroline; Rudan, Igor; Hall, Alistair S.; Samani, Nilesh J.; Attwood, Antony Paul; Sambrook, Jennifer G.; Hung, Joseph; Palmer, Lyle J.; Lokki, Marja-Liisa; Sinisalo, Juha; Boucher, Gabrielle; Huikuri, Heikki; Lorentzon, Mattias; Ohlsson, Claes; Eklund, Niina; Eriksson, Johan G.; Barlassina, Cristina; Rivolta, Carlo; Nolte, Ilja M.; Snieder, Harold; Van der Klauw, Melanie M.; Van Vliet-Ostaptchouk, Jana V.; Gejman, Pablo V.; Shi, Jianxin; Jacobs, Kevin B.; Wang, Zhaoming; Bakker, Stephan J. L.; Mateo Leach, Irene; Navis, Gerjan; van der Harst, Pim; Martin, Nicholas G.; Medland, Sarah E.; Montgomery, Grant W.; Yang, Jian; Chasman, Daniel I.; Ridker, Paul M.; Rose, Lynda M.; Lehtimäki, Terho; Raitakari, Olli; Absher, Devin; Iribarren, Carlos; Basart, Hanneke; Hovingh, Kees G.; Hyppönen, Elina; Power, Chris; Anderson, Denise; Beilby, John P.; Hui, Jennie; Jolley, Jennifer; Sager, Hendrik; Bornstein, Stefan R.; Schwarz, Peter E. H.; Kristiansson, Kati; Perola, Markus; Lindström, Jaana; Swift, Amy J.; Uusitupa, Matti; Atalay, Mustafa; Lakka, Timo A.; Rauramaa, Rainer; Bolton, Jennifer L.; Fowkes, Gerry; Fraser, Ross M.; Price, Jackie F.; Fischer, Krista; KrjutÅ¡kov, Kaarel; Metspalu, Andres; Mihailov, Evelin; Langenberg, Claudia; Luan, Jian'an; Ong, Ken K.; Chines, Peter S.; Keinanen-Kiukaanniemi, Sirkka M.; Saaristo, Timo E.; Edkins, Sarah; Franks, Paul W.; Hallmans, Göran; Shungin, Dmitry; Morris, Andrew David; Palmer, Colin N. A.; Erbel, Raimund; Moebus, Susanne; Nöthen, Markus M.; Pechlivanis, Sonali; Hveem, Kristian; Narisu, Narisu; Hamsten, Anders; Humphries, Steve E.; Strawbridge, Rona J.; Tremoli, Elena; Grallert, Harald; Thorand, Barbara; Illig, Thomas; Koenig, Wolfgang; Müller-Nurasyid, Martina; Peters, Annette; Boehm, Bernhard O.; Kleber, Marcus E.; März, Winfried; Winkelmann, Bernhard R.; Kuusisto, Johanna; Laakso, Markku; Arveiler, Dominique; Cesana, Giancarlo; Kuulasmaa, Kari; Virtamo, Jarmo; Yarnell, John W. G.; Kuh, Diana; Wong, Andrew; Lind, Lars; de Faire, Ulf; Gigante, Bruna; Magnusson, Patrik K. E.; Pedersen, Nancy L.; Dedoussis, George; Dimitriou, Maria; Kolovou, Genovefa; Kanoni, Stavroula; Stirrups, Kathleen; Bonnycastle, Lori L.; Njølstad, Inger; Wilsgaard, Tom; Ganna, Andrea; Rehnberg, Emil; Hingorani, Aroon; Kivimaki, Mika; Kumari, Meena; Assimes, Themistocles L.; Barroso, Inês; Boehnke, Michael; Borecki, Ingrid B.; Deloukas, Panos; Fox, Caroline S.; Frayling, Timothy; Groop, Leif C.; Haritunians, Talin; Hunter, David; Ingelsson, Erik; Kaplan, Robert; Mohlke, Karen L.; O'Connell, Jeffrey R.; Schlessinger, David; Strachan, David P.; Stefansson, Kari; van Duijn, Cornelia M.; Abecasis, Gonçalo R.; McCarthy, Mark I.; Hirschhorn, Joel N.; Qi, Lu; Loos, Ruth J. F.; Lindgren, Cecilia M.; North, Kari E.; Heid, Iris M.

2013-01-01

Given the anthropometric differences between men and women and previous evidence of sex-difference in genetic effects, we conducted a genome-wide search for sexually dimorphic associations with height, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist-to-hip-ratio (133,723 individuals) and took forward 348 SNPs into follow-up (additional 137,052 individuals) in a total of 94 studies. Seven loci displayed significant sex-difference (FDR<5%), including four previously established (near GRB14/COBLL1, LYPLAL1/SLC30A10, VEGFA, ADAMTS9) and three novel anthropometric trait loci (near MAP3K1, HSD17B4, PPARG), all of which were genome-wide significant in women (P<5×10−8), but not in men. Sex-differences were apparent only for waist phenotypes, not for height, weight, BMI, or hip circumference. Moreover, we found no evidence for genetic effects with opposite directions in men versus women. The PPARG locus is of specific interest due to its role in diabetes genetics and therapy. Our results demonstrate the value of sex-specific GWAS to unravel the sexually dimorphic genetic underpinning of complex traits. PMID:23754948

Comparing men and women with binge-eating disorder and co-morbid obesity.

PubMed

Lydecker, Janet A; Grilo, Carlos M

2018-05-01

This study examined differences in clinical presentation of men and women with binge-eating disorder (BED) who participated in treatment research at a medical-school based program. Participants were 682 adults (n = 182 men, n = 500 women) with DSM-IV-defined BED. Doctoral-level research clinicians assessed eating-disorder psychopathology, including BED diagnosis, using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Disorders (SCID) and Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) interview. Research clinicians measured height and weight and participants completed a battery of established self-report measures. Men had significantly higher body mass index (BMI) than women; women had significantly higher eating-disorder psychopathology (EDE scales and global score) and depression than men. Differences in eating-disorder psychopathology and depression remained higher for women than men after adjusting for race/ethnicity and BMI. Frequency of binge-eating episodes, subjective binge-eating episodes, and overeating episodes did not differ significantly by sex. Women had younger ages of onset for dieting and binge-eating behaviors than men but ages of onset for obesity and BED did not significantly differ between men and women. There are some sex differences in clinical presentation and age-of-onset timeline of adults with BED. Men and women develop obesity and BED (at diagnostic threshold) around the same age but women begin dieting and binge-eating behaviors earlier than men. At presentation for treatment for BED, men and women did not differ in binge-eating frequency and although men and women differed significantly on BMI and eating-disorder psychopathology, the magnitude of these differences was quite modest. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Development of a cognitive function test using virtual reality technology: examination in healthy participants.

PubMed

Sakai, Hiromi; Nagano, Akinori; Seki, Keiko; Okahashi, Sayaka; Kojima, Maki; Luo, Zhiwei

2018-07-01

We developed a virtual reality test to assess the cognitive function of Japanese people in near-daily-life environment, namely, a virtual shopping test (VST). In this test, participants were asked to execute shopping tasks using touch panel operations in a "virtual shopping mall." We examined differences in VST performances among healthy participants of different ages and correlations between VST and screening tests, such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Everyday Memory Checklist (EMC). We included 285 healthy participants between 20 and 86 years of age in seven age groups. Therefore, each VST index tended to decrease with advancing age; differences among age groups were significant. Most VST indices had a significantly negative correlation with MMSE and significantly positive correlation with EMC. VST may be useful for assessing general cognitive decline; effects of age must be considered for proper interpretation of the VST scores.

Effectiveness of simulation with team-based learning in newborn nursing care.

PubMed

Kang, Kyung-Ah; Kim, Shin-Jeong; Oh, Jina; Kim, Sunghee; Lee, Myung-Nam

2016-06-01

This study determines the effect of simulation with team-based learning (TBL) on newborn nursing care. This randomized controlled trial included 74 nursing students from one university located in Seoul, South Korea. Participants were categorized into two groups according to educational modality: one group involved both simulation and TBL, and the other involved simulation alone. Learning attitudes, academic achievement, and simulation performance were examined to assess effectiveness. The mean difference in learning attitudes between the two groups was non-significant. Low academic achievement differed significantly between the two groups (t = 3.445, P = 0.002). There was no significant difference in mean scores for simulation performance between the two groups. In this study, simulation with TBL was effective in improving learning outcomes. In current nursing education, various learning methods are employed within complex nursing situations and require flexibility and problem-solving approaches. © 2015 Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Sulawesi cacao (Theobroma cacao, l.) performances under two different agricultural system in east coast of Central Sulawesi

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muslimin; Wijayanti, W.; Anshary, A.; Basri, Z.; Cruz, A. F.; Suwastika, I. N.; Shiina, T.

2018-04-01

Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) is one major agricultural commodity from central Sulawesi, which is significantly affected by a range of pest and diseases including Cacao Pod Borer (CPB), Pod Rod Diseases (PRD), and Vascular Streak Dieback (VSD). Intensive and extensive approaches, including introduction of various new superior cultivars/clones, and development of eco-friendly agricultural system were implemented in order to overtake that problem. Here, we observed the performance of three different clones (namely: Sulawesi 1, MCC01, and Tadulako-1) in two different locations (Parigi and Poso-which located along east coast of central Sulawesi province), and under two different Agricultural management system (echo-friendly-intensive and Non-Intensive). All clones tested showed their well-adapted and suitable to local conditions. The performance of each clone can be improved by intensive management system. Based on all observed parameters (number of wet bean per pot, bean count, fat and shell percentage, and percentage of infection) it convincingly showed that intensive management system was working well in improving the quality and quantity of cacao beans production, and it fit to commercial requirements. The highest rate of infection was by Phytophthora, and no significant differences on the overall performances. Clones of Sulawesi-1 and MCC01 most likely was better than Tadulako-1.

Development of criteria for the use of asphalt-rubber as a Stress-Absorbing Membrane Interlayer (SAMI)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Newcomb, D. E.; McKeen, R. G.

1983-12-01

This report documents over 2 years of research efforts to characterize asphalt-rubber mixtures to be used in Stress-Absorbing Membrane Interlayers (SAMI). The purpose of these SAMIs is to retard or prevent reflection cracking in asphalt-concrete overlays. Several laboratory experiments and one field trial were conducted to define significant test methods and parameters for incorporation into construction design and specification documents. Test methods used in this study included a modified softening point test, force-ductility, and Schweyer viscosity. Variables investigated included (1) Laboratory-mixing temperature; (2) Rubber type; (3) Laboratory storage time; (4) Laboratory storage condition; (5) Laboratory batch replication; (6) Laboratory mixing time; (7) Field mixing time; (8) Laboratory test temperature; (9) Force-Ductility elongation rates; and (10) Asphalt grade. It was found that mixing temperature, mixing time, rubber type, and asphalt grade all have significant effects upon the behavior of asphalt-rubber mixtures. Significant variability was also noticed in different laboratory batch replications. Varying laboratory test temperature and force-ductility elongation rate revealed further differences in asphalt-rubber mixtures.

Stratification of medulloblastoma on the basis of histopathological grading.

PubMed

Giangaspero, Felice; Wellek, Stefan; Masuoka, Jun; Gessi, Marco; Kleihues, Paul; Ohgaki, Hiroko

2006-07-01

Medulloblastoma (WHO grade IV) is an embryonal tumour of the cerebellum and the most common malignant central nervous system tumour in children. Despite significant advances in treatment, 5-year survival rates are still less than 70%, suggesting the presence of subgroups with different response to radio/chemotherapy. In the present study, we re-evaluated a series of 347 medulloblastomas from the SIOP II clinical trial of the International Society of Paediatric Oncology to identify features predictive of clinical outcome. Relapse free survival for medulloblastomas with severe anaplasia [5-year rate: S(60)=49.5%], was significantly shorter than for tumours with moderate or mild anaplasia S(60)=65.4%; P=0.001). The difference between both groups was even larger when the presence or absence of extensive apoptosis was included (46.5 vs. 66.7%; P=0.0216). Other histological features including nodularity, necrosis, vascular proliferation and the presence of beta-catenin mutations (7% of cases) were not predictive for relapse free survival. These findings indicate that degree of anaplasia is the most significant histologic feature predictive of the survival of medulloblastoma patients.

White matter integrity in Asperger syndrome: a preliminary diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging study in adults.

PubMed

Bloemen, Oswald J N; Deeley, Quinton; Sundram, Fred; Daly, Eileen M; Barker, Gareth J; Jones, Derek K; van Amelsvoort, Therese A M J; Schmitz, Nicole; Robertson, Dene; Murphy, Kieran C; Murphy, Declan G M

2010-10-01

Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), including Asperger syndrome and autism, is a highly genetic neurodevelopmental disorder. There is a consensus that ASD has a biological basis, and it has been proposed that it is a "connectivity" disorder. Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging (DT-MRI) allows measurement of the microstructural integrity of white matter (a proxy measure of "connectivity"). However, nobody has investigated the microstructural integrity of whole brain white matter in people with Asperger syndrome. We measured the fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD) and radial diffusivity (RD) of white matter, using DT-MRI, in 13 adults with Asperger syndrome and 13 controls. The groups did not differ significantly in overall intelligence and age. FA, MD and RD were assessed using whole brain voxel-based techniques. Adults with Asperger syndrome had a significantly lower FA than controls in 13 clusters. These were largely bilateral and included white matter in the internal capsule, frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital lobes, cingulum and corpus callosum. Adults with Asperger syndrome have widespread significant differences from controls in white matter microstructural integrity.

Carotid artery stiffness evaluated early by wave intensity in normal left ventricular function in post-radiotherapy patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhuo; Luo, Runlan; Tan, Bijun; Qian, Jing; Duan, Yanfang; Wang, Nan; Li, Guangsen

2018-04-01

This study aims to assess carotid elasticity early in normal left ventricular function in post-radiotherapy patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) by wave intensity. Sixty-seven post-radiotherapy patients all with normal left ventricular function were classified into group NPC1 and group NPC2 based on their carotid intima-media thickness. Thirty age- and sex-matched NPC patients without any history of irradiation and chemotherapy were included as a control group. Carotid parameters, including stiffness constant (β), pressure-strain elastic modulus (Ep), arterial compliance (AC), stiffness constant pulse wave velocity (PWVβ), and wave intensity pulse wave velocity (PWVWI) were measured. There were no significant differences in conventional echocardiographic variables among the three groups. In comparison with the control group, β, Ep, PWVβ, and PWVWI were significantly increased, while AC was significantly decreased in the NPC1 and NPC2 groups, and there were differences between the NPC1 group and NPC2 group (all P < 0.05). This study suggested that carotid artery stiffness increased with reduced carotid compliance in post-RT with NPC.

Effect of different cavity conditioners on microleakage of glass ionomer cement with a high viscosity in primary teeth

PubMed Central

Mazaheri, Romina; Pishevar, Leila; Shichani, Ava Vali; Geravandi, Sanas

2015-01-01

Background: Glass ionomer cement is a common material used in pediatric dentistry. The aim of this study was to evaluate the microleakage of high-viscosity glass ionomer restorations in deciduous teeth after conditioning with four different conditioners. Materials and Methods: Fifty intact primary canines were collected. Standard Class V cavities (2 mm × 1.5 mm × 3 mm) were prepared by one operator on all buccal tooth surfaces, including both enamel and dentin. The samples were divided into five groups with different conditioners (no conditioner, 20% acrylic acid, 35% phosphoric acid, 12% citric acid, and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid [EDTA]). Two-way — ANOVA, Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests were used to compare the means of microleakage between the five groups. The significance level was set at P < 0.05. Results: There was no significant difference between the means of microleakage in incisal (enamel) and gingival (dentin) margins (P = 0.34). Furthermore, there was no significant difference between the means of microleakage in enamel and dentin margins (P = 0.4). There was a significant difference between the means of microleakage in different groups (P = 0.03). Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it is suggested that 20% acrylic acid and 17% EDTA be used for cavity conditioning which can result in better chemical and micromechanical adhesion. PMID:26288623

Association between different phases of menstrual cycle and body image measures of perceived size, ideal size, and body dissatisfaction.

PubMed

Teixeira, André Luiz S; Dias, Marcelo Ricardo C; Damasceno, Vinícius O; Lamounier, Joel A; Gardner, Rick M

2013-12-01

The association between phases of the menstrual cycle and body image was investigated. 44 university women (M age = 23.3 yr., SD = 4.7) judged their perceived and ideal body size, and body dissatisfaction was calculated at each phase of the menstrual cycle, including premenstrual, menstrual, and intermenstrual. Participants selected one of nine figural drawings ranging from very thin to obese that represented their perceived size and ideal size. Body dissatisfaction was measured as the absolute difference between scores on perceived and ideal figural drawings. During each menstrual phase, anthropometric measures of weight, height, body mass index, circumference of waist and abdomen, and body composition were taken. There were no significant differences in any anthropometric measures between the three menstrual cycle phases. Perceived body size and body dissatisfaction were significantly different between menstrual phases, with the largest perceived body size and highest body dissatisfaction occurring during the menstrual phase. Ideal body size did not differ between menstrual phases, although participants desired a significantly smaller ideal size as compared to the perceived size.

Quantifying VOC emissions from polymers: A case study

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

Schulze, J.K.; Qasem, J.S.; Snoddy, R.

1996-12-31

Evaluating residual volatile organic compound emissions emanating from low-density polyethylene can pose significant challenges. These challenges include quantifying emissions from: (a) multiple process lines with different operating conditions; (b) several different comonomers; (c) variations of comonomer content in each grade; and (d) over 120 grades of LDPE. This presentation is a Case Study outlining a project to develop grade-specific emission data for low-density polyethylene pellets. This study included extensive laboratory analyses and required the development of a relational database to compile analytical results, calculate the mean concentration and standard deviation, and generate emissions reports.

Reproductive Disorders of Marsupials.

PubMed

Johnson-Delaney, Cathy A; Lennox, Angela M

2017-05-01

Marsupial reproduction differs significantly in anatomy and physiology from that of placental mammals. The gastrointestinal and urogenital tracts empty into a cloaca. Reproductive parameters include gestation and pouch time, as the fetus develops outside of the uterus. Captive marsupials discussed include sugar gliders), short-tailed opossums, Virginia opossums, and Tammar and Bennett's wallabies. Common disease conditions include joey eviction, pouch infections, mastitis, metritis, prostatitis, penile necrosis, and neoplasia. Common surgeries include penile amputation, castration, and ovario-vaginal-hysterectomy or ovario-hysterectomy. Therapeutics used for these conditions are presented. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

F212. IMPROVEMENT IN COGNITIVE BIASES AFTER GROUP PSYCHOEDUCATION AND METACOGNITIVE TRAINING IN RECENT ONSET PSYCHOSIS

PubMed Central

Perez, Maria Isabel Ahuir; Cabezas, Ángel; Miñano, Maria José; Algora, Maria José; Estrada, Francesc; Sole, Montserrat; Barbero, Juan David; Montalvo, Itziar; Gutierrez-Zotes, Alfonso; Sanchez-Gistau, Vanessa; Monreal, José Antonio; Vilella, Elisabet; Palao, Diego; Labad, Javier

2018-01-01

Abstract Background Group psychotherapeutic treatments can improve negative symptoms and social functioning deficits in the treatment of schizophrenia. These treatments may include different modalities including group cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation and metacognitive training (MCT). MCT is effective for preventing delusions by modifying the cognitive biases most related to psychosis. Our primary goal was to address whether cognitive biases improve more specifically with MCT when compared to psychoeducation in a sample of patients with recent onset psychosis. Methods Design: a multicenter randomized, pilot clinical trial was performed, in which one group received psychoeducation and the other MCT. Sample 49 patients aged between 18–35 years and with a diagnosis of psychotic disorder according to DSM-IV-TR criteria and less than 3 years of duration of illness. All patients were recruited at two Early Psychosis Programmes in Spain (ParcTaulí Hospital Universitari, Sabadell; Hospital UniversitariInstitut Pere Mata, Reus). Ethical approval was obtained from the local Ethics Committees of both institutions. Outcomes Patients were evaluated at baseline and at the end of each intervention. The primary outcome was cognitive biases, assessed with Cognitive Biases Questionnaire for Psychosis (CBQ). Secondary outcomes included cognitive insight, psychopathological symptoms (positive, negative, depressive) and psychosocial functioning. Interventions The interventions consisted of 8 weekly group sessions of MCT (developed at the University of Hamburg-Eppendorf by Steffen Moritz) or psychoeducation. MCT program included sessions dealing with attributional style, jumping to conclusions, changing beliefs, empathy, memory, and depression and self-esteem. The psychoeducational program included sessions addressing aspects related to psychotic illness (psychotic symptoms, risk factors of relapse, stress management, psychopharmacological treatment, substance use, physical health and social skills). Statistical analysis: A general linear model for repeated measures was performed in order to compare the longitudinal effect of the intervention and to test whether changes in outcome variables differed by treatment group. All analyses were adjusted for gender. A p value < 0.05 (two-tailed) was considered to be significant. Results Of all 49 patients, 38 (77.6%) completed at least 50% of the sessions, and were included in the final analyses. 21 received psychoeducation and 16 MCT. Cognitive biases improved significantly in both psychoeducation (43.8 ± 11.2 vs 40.8 ± 10.4) and MCT groups (44.2 ± 7.6 vs 39.6 ± 5.0). The time effect was significant (F= 18.9, p<0.001) without a different pattern in the change of CBQ scores between groups (interaction time x group, F= 0.63, p= 0.431). An improvement in negative symptoms was also observed after receiving both treatments, without significant differences between groups. No significant changes over time were observed in positive symptoms, depressive symptoms or psychosocial functioning. Discussion Both group psychoeducation and MCT improve cognitive biases in recent onset psychosis. Our study does not support a superiority of one intervention over the other in terms of improving cognitive biases.

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN THE VITREOMACULAR INTERFACE AND OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY CHARACTERISTICS IN WET AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION.

PubMed

Ashraf, Mohammed; Souka, Ahmed; Adelman, Ron A

2017-09-01

To study the effect of the vitreomacular interface on various wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) characteristics including the size and type of choroidal neovascularization (CNV), choroidal thickness, and activity of the CNV. This was a retrospective observational cross-sectional study. The study included 43 patients (51 eyes) with treatment-naive age-related macular degeneration. Twenty-six patients with wet AMD in one eye and dry AMD in the other eye were included in a paired-eye analysis. Patients underwent optical coherence tomography examination using Heidelberg Spectralis (spectral domain optical coherence tomography) at presentation to determine the type of CNV and the vitreomacular status. In addition, various parameters were measured including the choroidal thickness and horizontal width and vertical height measurements of the CNV. There was no correlation between the height, width, activity or type of the CNV, and the presence or absence of vitreomacular adhesion. The mean choroidal thickness (using enhanced depth imaging) in cases with vitreomacular adhesion was 272.57 μm compared with 197.32 μm in cases with no vitreomacular adhesion, a statistically significant difference (P = 0.003). In the paired-eye study (21 patients), there was no significant difference between the eyes with wet AMD and dry AMD with regard to vitreomacular status or the choroidal thickness. In a subgroup analysis, patients with Type 1 CNV had a significantly higher percentage of vitreomacular adhesion compared with the other eye with dry AMD (P = 0.034). In conclusion, the vitreomacular interface does seem to be associated with an increased choroidal thickness in cases of wet AMD. Furthermore, the association between the vitreomacular interface and wet AMD is more significant for Type 1 CNV.

Promising Long-Term Health-Related Quality of Life After High-Dose-Rate Brachytherapy Boost for Localized Prostate Cancer

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

Wahlgren, Thomas; Nilsson, Sten; Lennernaes, Bo

2007-11-01

Purpose: To explore the long-term general and disease-specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL) >5 years after combined radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer, including a high-dose-rate brachytherapy boost and hormonal deprivation therapy. Methods and Materials: Of 196 eligible patients with localized prostate cancer (Stage T1-T3a) consecutively treated with curative radiotherapy at our institution between June 1998 and August 2000, 182 (93%) completed the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life questionnaires QLQ-C30 and QLQ-PR25, including specific questions on fecal incontinence >5 years after treatment in September 2005. A comparison with age-matched normative data was done, as wellmore » as a longitudinal analysis using HRQOL data from a previous study. Results: The analysis included 158 nonrecurrent patients. Comparisons made with normative data showed that physical and role functioning were significantly better statistically and social functioning was significantly worse. Diarrhea and sleep disturbances were more pronounced and pain less pronounced than in a normal male population. The longitudinal analysis of disease-specific HRQOL showed that urinary urgency and erectile problems persisted 5 years after treatment, and nocturia and hormonally dependent symptoms had declined significantly, with a statistically significant difference. Fecal incontinence was recognized by 25% of patients, of whom 80% considered it a minor problem. Conclusion: More than 5 years after combined radiotherapy, irritative urinary problems and erectile dysfunction remain concerns, although severe bowel disturbance and fecal incontinence seem to be minor problems. Longitudinally, a decline mainly in hormonally dependent symptoms was seen. Minor differences in general HRQOL compared with normative data were observed, possibly including 'response shift' effects.« less

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for the treatment of chronic low back pain: a systematic review.

PubMed

Khadilkar, Amole; Milne, Sarah; Brosseau, Lucie; Wells, George; Tugwell, Peter; Robinson, Vivian; Shea, Beverley; Saginur, Michael

2005-12-01

Systematic review. To determine the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in the management of chronic LBP. Chronic low back pain (LBP) affects a significant proportion of the population. TENS was introduced more than 30 years ago as an adjunct to pharmacologic pain management. However, despite its widespread use, the usefulness of TENS in chronic LBP is still controversial. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PEDro, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Issue 2, 2005), up to April 1, 2005. Only randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) evaluating the effect of TENS on chronic LBP were included. Two reviewers independently selected trials and extracted data using predetermined forms. Heterogeneity was tested with Cochrane's Q test. A fixed effect model was used throughout for calculating continuous variables, except where heterogeneity existed, in which case a random effects model was used. Results are presented as weighted mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI), where the difference between the treated and control groups was weighted by the inverse of the variance. Standardized mean differences were calculated by dividing the difference between the treated and control by the baseline variance. Standardized mean differences were used when different scales were used to measure the same concept. Dichotomous outcomes were analyzed with odds ratios. Two RCTs (175 patients) were included. They differed with respect to study design, methodologic quality, inclusion and exclusion criteria, characteristics of TENS application, treatment schedule, cointerventions, and measured outcomes. In one RCT, TENS produced significantly greater pain relief than the placebo control. However, in the other RCT, no statistically significant differences between treatment and control groups were shown for multiple outcome measures. Preplanned subgroup analyses, intended to examine the impact of different stimulation parameters, sites of TENS application, treatment durations, and baseline patient characteristics were not possible because of the small number of included trials. Evidence for the efficacy of TENS as an isolated intervention in the management of chronic LBP is limited and inconsistent. Larger, multicenter, RCTs are needed to better resolve its role in this condition. Increased attention should be given to the risks and benefits of long-term use, which more appropriately addresses the realities of managing chronic low back pain.

FAST Center for Environmental Remediation, Fate and Transport of Hazardous Chemicals

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-07-01

Because of the FAST Center project, A&T will compete for funding and will make significant research contributions in environmental science and engineering....include: (1) development of infrastructure and facilities for environmental research at A&T (2) significant research contributions in environmental ... science and engineering, (3) graduation of 25 M.S. graduates in five different disciplines, (4) training of 16 undergraduate assistants, (5) publication

Mesohabitats, fish assemblage composition, and mesohabitat use of the Rio Grande silvery minnow over a range of seasonal flow regimes in the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo del Norte, in and near Big Bend National Park, Texas, 2010-11

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moring, J. Bruce; Braun, Christopher L.; Pearson, Daniel K.

2014-01-01

There were no statistically significant differences between the stream velocities associated with seine hauls of the Rio Grande silvery minnow and Tamaulipas shiner. Stream velocities associated with the seine hauls that included Rio Grande silvery minnow indicate that this species is predominantly found in low-velocity mesohabitats. Velocities associated with seine hauls that included the Tamaulipas shiner represented a much broader overall range of velocities than those associated with Rio Grande silvery minnow collections. No statistically significant differences were found between the depths for seine hauls that included Rio Grande silvery minnow or Tamaulipas shiner. The Rio Grande silvery minnow was more commonly collected in seine hauls from mesohabitats dominated by cobble substrates and less frequently collected in mesohabitats with substrates dominated by fine-sized silt and clay particles, gravels, and sands, in that order. In contrast, the Tamaulipas shiner was broadly distributed among mesohabitats characterized as having gravel, cobble, and silt and clay.

Efficacy and toxicity differences in lung cancer populations in the era of clinical trials globalization: the 'common arm' approach.

PubMed

Mack, Philip C; Gandara, David R; Lara, Primo N

2012-12-01

Historically, notable variability has been observed in clinical trial outcomes between different regions and populations worldwide, even when employing the same cytotoxic regimen in lung cancer. These divergent results underscore the inherent challenges in interpreting trials conducted abroad and raise questions regarding the general applicability of transnational clinical trials. Various reasons have been postulated to account for these differences in efficacy and toxicity, including trial design, eligibility criteria, patient demographics and, perhaps most intriguingly, population-related pharmacogenomics. However, without methodology to control for such variables, these hypotheses remain largely untested. The authors previously developed the 'common arm' approach in order to directly compare efficacy and toxicity results of trials simultaneously performed in different countries. By standardizing clinical trial-associated variables such as treatment regimens (dose, schedule, and so on), eligibility, staging, response and toxicity criteria, this approach has the potential to determine the underlying reasons for divergences in trial outcomes across countries, and whether population-associated polymorphisms contribute to these differences. In the past decade, Japanese and US investigators have applied the common arm analytic method to trials in both extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and advanced nonSCLC. In the SCLC analysis, a comparison of the cisplatin/irinotecan arms from both trials revealed significant differences in response rates and overall survival. Significant differences were also observed in the distribution of gender and performance status. The common arm analysis in nonSCLC included two trials from Japan and one from the USA, each containing a 'common' carboplatin/paclitaxel arm. Clinical results were similar in the two Japanese trials, but were significantly different from the US trial with regard to survival, neutropenia, febrile neutropenia and anemia. The underlying basis for these divergent outcomes is discussed. The common arm methodology provides a template for identifying and interpreting patient outcome differences across populations, and is an instructive lesson in the burgeoning era of clinical trials globalization.

Predictors and Neuropsychiatric Profile of Nucleus Basalis of Meynert Degeneration in Parkinson Disease

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-10-01

baseline were available for 228 PD subjects. In a logistic regression model adjusted for age and sex , Ch4 density was associated with lower risk of...events, there were no significant differences in age or sex (p>0.05). PD subjects with 2 or more psychotic events had significantly lower baseline Ch4...Aim 1 and 2 include use of linear regression models to adjust for age, sex , and other significant covariates. Aim 3 is a cross-sectional controlled

Comprehensive Metabolomics Study To Assess Longitudinal Biochemical Changes and Potential Early Biomarkers in Nonobese Diabetic Mice That Progress to Diabetes.

PubMed

Buchwald, Peter; Tamayo-Garcia, Alejandro; Ramamoorthy, Sivapriya; Garcia-Contreras, Marta; Mendez, Armando J; Ricordi, Camillo

2017-10-06

A global nontargeted longitudinal metabolomics study was carried out in male and female NOD mice to characterize the time-profile of the changes in the metabolic signature caused by onset of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and identify possible early biomarkers in T1D progressors. Metabolomics profiling of samples collected at five different time-points identified 676 and 706 biochemicals in blood and feces, respectively. Several metabolites were expressed at significantly different levels in progressors at all time-points, and their proportion increased strongly following onset of hyperglycemia. At the last time-point, when all progressors were diabetic, a large percentage of metabolites had significantly different levels: 57.8% in blood and 27.8% in feces. Metabolic pathways most strongly affected included the carbohydrate, lipid, branched-chain amino acid, and oxidative ones. Several biochemicals showed considerable (>4×) change. Maltose, 3-hydroxybutyric acid, and kojibiose increased, while 1,5-anhydroglucitol decreased more than 10-fold. At the earliest time-point (6-week), differences between the metabolic signatures of progressors and nonprogressors were relatively modest. Nevertheless, several compounds had significantly different levels and show promise as possible early T1D biomarkers. They include fatty acid phosphocholine derivatives from the phosphatidylcholine subpathway (elevated in both blood and feces) as well as serotonin, ribose, and arabinose (increased) in blood plus 13-HODE, tocopherol (increased), diaminopimelate, valerate, hydroxymethylpyrimidine, and dulcitol (decreased) in feces. A combined metabolic signature based on these compounds might serve as an early predictor of T1D-progressors.

Physicochemical Characteristics of Larval Habitat Waters of Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in Qom Province, Central Iran

PubMed Central

Abai, Mohammad Reza; Saghafipour, Abedin; Ladonni, Hossein; Jesri, Nahid; Omidi, Saeed; Azari-Hamidian, Shahyad

2016-01-01

Background: Mosquitoes lay eggs in a wide range of habitats with different physicochemical parameters. Ecological data, including physicochemical factors of oviposition sites, play an important role in integrated vector management. Those data help the managers to make the best decision in controlling the aquatic stages of vectors especially using source reduction. Methods: To study some physicochemical characteristics of larval habitat waters, an investigation was carried out in Qom Province, central Iran, during spring and summer 2008 and 2009. Water samples were collected during larval collection from ten localities. The chemical parameters of water samples were analyzed based on mg/l using standard methods. Water temperature (°C), turbidity (NTU), total dissolved solids (ppm), electrical conductivity (μS/cm), and acidity (pH) were measured using digital testers. Thermotolerant coliforms of water samples were analyzed based on MPN/100ml. Data were assessed by Kruskal-Wallis test and Spearman Correlation analysis. Results: In total, 371 mosquito larvae were collected including 14 species representing four genera. Some physicochemical parameters of water in Emamzadeh Esmail, Qomrood, Qom City, and Rahjerd showed significant differences among localities (P< 0.05). The physicochemical and microbial parameters did not show any significant differences among different species (P> 0.05). There was no significant correlation between the abundance of larvae and the different physicochemical and microbial parameters (P> 0.05). Conclusion: The means of EC, TDS, and phosphate of localities and species were remarkably higher than those of the previous studies. Other parameters seem to be in the range of other investigations. PMID:27047973

Physicochemical Characteristics of Larval Habitat Waters of Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in Qom Province, Central Iran.

PubMed

Abai, Mohammad Reza; Saghafipour, Abedin; Ladonni, Hossein; Jesri, Nahid; Omidi, Saeed; Azari-Hamidian, Shahyad

2016-03-01

Mosquitoes lay eggs in a wide range of habitats with different physicochemical parameters. Ecological data, including physicochemical factors of oviposition sites, play an important role in integrated vector management. Those data help the managers to make the best decision in controlling the aquatic stages of vectors especially using source reduction. To study some physicochemical characteristics of larval habitat waters, an investigation was carried out in Qom Province, central Iran, during spring and summer 2008 and 2009. Water samples were collected during larval collection from ten localities. The chemical parameters of water samples were analyzed based on mg/l using standard methods. Water temperature (°C), turbidity (NTU), total dissolved solids (ppm), electrical conductivity (μS/cm), and acidity (pH) were measured using digital testers. Thermotolerant coliforms of water samples were analyzed based on MPN/100ml. Data were assessed by Kruskal-Wallis test and Spearman Correlation analysis. In total, 371 mosquito larvae were collected including 14 species representing four genera. Some physicochemical parameters of water in Emamzadeh Esmail, Qomrood, Qom City, and Rahjerd showed significant differences among localities (P< 0.05). The physicochemical and microbial parameters did not show any significant differences among different species (P> 0.05). There was no significant correlation between the abundance of larvae and the different physicochemical and microbial parameters (P> 0.05). The means of EC, TDS, and phosphate of localities and species were remarkably higher than those of the previous studies. Other parameters seem to be in the range of other investigations.

Ethnicity and etiology in burn trauma.

PubMed

Papp, Anthony; Haythornthwaite, Jordan

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to retrieve data from the British Columbia Professional Firefighters Burn Unit registry, with a focus on ethnicity and how it is involved in burn trauma. It is hypothesized that mechanism, severity, and other patient characteristics are significantly different among different ethnic groups. Furthermore, it is believed that these data can be used to augment burn prevention strategies. Data for burn patients admitted from 1979 to 2009 were reviewed from the burn registry. The main focus was with differences seen among the four main ethnicities throughout the analysis, Caucasian, Aboriginal, Asian, and Indoasian, reflecting the population distribution of the region. Age and sex were also considered when looking at burn mechanism, severity, contributing and copresenting factors. Caucasians were the largest group (79.1%) and included the largest male:female ratio (3.3:1), with high numbers of flame injury (53.9%). Caucasians presented with the highest mortality (6.6% compared with 4.1% for all other ethnicities; P < .006). Asian patients (8.1%) showed significantly higher occurrences of urban (64%) and workplace (28.9%) injuries with a larger proportion of scald injury (38.9%). Indoasian patients included larger numbers of women (36.4%) and household scald injuries (33.9%) whereas Aboriginals suffered the most flame injuries (60.1%) in rural areas with more frequent contributing factors such as alcohol. The study found multiple significant differences in the burn injury population when segmented by ethnicity. Though the exact reasons for these differences are difficult to say with certainty, it allows a unique opportunity to focus communication and prevention efforts to specific communities.

Dental Number Anomalies and Their Prevalence According To Gender and Jaw in School Children 7 To 14 Years.

PubMed

Sejdini, Milaim; Çerkezi, Sabetim

2018-05-20

This study aimed to find the prevalence of Hypodontia and Hyperdontia in different ethnicities in patients from 7 to 14 years old. A group of 520 children were included aged 7 to 14 years, only the children who went to primary schools. Controls were performed by professional people to preserve the criteria of orthodontic abnormalities evaluation. The data were recorded in the individual card specially formulated for this research and all the patients suspected for hypodontia and hyperdontia the orthopantomography for confirmation was made. The data were analysed using descriptive statistical analysis using χ 2 test for the significant difference for p ˂ 0.05 and Fisher test for p < 0.05. Hypodontia, not counting the patients with missing third molars was found in 18 patients researched or 3.46%. The most commonly missing teeth were the second lower premolars, the second upper premolars, second upper lateral incisors followed by the lower incisors. Hyperdontia not including the third molars was found in 4 cases of the participants or 0.76% from which the most frequent atypical tooth mesiodens and one case of bilateral hypodontia of a lateral upper incisor with typical shape and size. But there were no significant differences when tested between genders and jaws. The prevalence we found is similar to the prevalence in the region. Our findings indicate that there is a difference between the genders in the prevalence of hypodontia, but without statistical significance, while for hyperdontia we can't see such a difference between the sexes.

Behavior in Prader-Willi syndrome: relationship to genetic subtypes and age.

PubMed

Dykens, Elisabeth M; Roof, Elizabeth

2008-09-01

Some behavioral features of Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) are associated with the major genetic subtypes of this disorder. While most agree that those with maternal uniparental disomy (UPD) have a distinctive cognitive and psychiatric profile, findings are more controversial regarding possible differences among persons who vary in paternal deletion size. Caregivers of 88 persons with PWS aged 5 to 51 years (M = 22 years) were administered measures of problem behavior, compulsivity, hyperphagia, and adaptive skills. The sample was well characterized as having relatively large, Type I (n = 26) or smaller, Type II (n = 29) deletions, or UPD (n = 33). No significant behavioral differences were found between the Type I versus Type II deletion groups. Within each genetic subtype, however, differences emerged in how advancing age related to behavior. Although age did not emerge as a significant correlate of behavior in the Type II or UPD groups, in the Type I group age was consistently associated with lower problem behaviors, adaptive skills, and externalizing symptoms. Although differences between deletion subtypes were not found, significant within-subtype differences emerged in relationships between age and behavior. Negative associations between age and behavior in the Type I group only may relate to non-imprinted genes that are deleted in Type I but not Type II cases, including CYFIP1. Altered expression of CYFIP1 is seen in other developmental disabilities, including 15q disorders, and haploinsufficiency of CYFIP1 in Type I PWS cases may be associated with age-related phenotypic effects. Findings underscore the importance of a life-span perspective in phenotypic research.

Program director opinions of core competencies in hand surgery training: analysis of differences between plastic and orthopedic surgery accredited programs.

PubMed

Sears, Erika Davis; Larson, Bradley P; Chung, Kevin C

2013-03-01

The authors' aim was to conduct a national survey of hand surgery fellowship program directors to determine differences of opinions of essential components of hand surgery training between program directors from plastic and orthopedic surgery programs. The authors performed a Web-based survey of 74 program directors from all Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited hand surgery fellowship programs to determine components that are essential for hand surgery training. The survey included assessment of nine general areas of practice, 97 knowledge topics, and 172 procedures. Twenty-seven scales of related survey items were created to determine differences between specialty groups based on clinical themes. An 84 percent response rate was achieved, including 49 orthopedic and 12 plastic surgery program directors. There were significant differences in mean responses between the specialty groups in 11 of 27 scales. Only one scale, forearm fractures, contained items with a significantly stronger preference for essential rating among orthopedic surgeons. The other 10 scales contained items with a significantly higher preference for essential rating among plastic surgeons, most of which related to soft-tissue injury and reconstruction. The burn scale had the greatest discrepancy in opinion of essential ratings between the groups, followed by pedicled and free tissue transfer, and amputation and fingertip injuries. Despite being united under the subspecialty of hand surgery, program directors tend to emphasize clinical areas that are stressed in their respective primary disciplines. These differences promote the advantage of programs that provide exposure to both plastic surgery-trained and orthopedic surgery-trained hand surgeons.

Analysis of self-heating of thermally assisted spin-transfer torque magnetic random access memory

DOE PAGES

Deschenes, Austin; Muneer, Sadid; Akbulut, Mustafa; ...

2016-11-11

Thermal assistance has been shown to significantly reduce the required operation power for spin torque transfer magnetic random access memory (STT-MRAM). Proposed heating methods include modified material stack compositions that result in increased self-heating or external heat sources. Here, we analyze the self-heating process of a standard perpendicular magnetic anisotropy STT-MRAM device through numerical simulations in order to understand the relative contributions of Joule, thermoelectric Peltier and Thomson, and tunneling junction heating. A 2D rotationally symmetric numerical model is used to solve the coupled electro-thermal equations including thermoelectric effects and heat absorbed or released at the tunneling junction. We comparemore » self-heating for different common passivation materials, positive and negative electrical current polarity, and different device thermal anchoring and boundaries resistance configurations. The variations considered are found to result in significant differences in maximum temperatures reached. Average increases of 3 K, 10 K, and 100 K for different passivation materials, positive and negative polarity, and different thermal anchoring configurations, respectively, are observed. Furthermore, the highest temperatures, up to 424 K, are obtained for silicon dioxide as the passivation material, positive polarity, and low thermal anchoring with thermal boundary resistance configurations. Interestingly it is also found that due to the tunneling heat, Peltier effect, device geometry, and numerous interfacial layers around the magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ), most of the heat is dissipated on the lower potential side of the magnetic junction. We have observed this asymmetry in heating and is important as thermally assisted switching requires heating of the free layer specifically and this will be significantly different for the two polarity operations, set and reset.« less

[Epidemiological study of cytopenia among benzene-exposed workers and its influential factors].

PubMed

Peng, Juan-juan; Liu, Mei-xia; Yang, Feng; Guo, Wei-wei; Zhuang, Ran; Jia, Xian-dong

2013-03-01

To evaluate the benzene exposure level and cytopenia among the benzene exposed workers in Shanghai, China and to analyze the influential factors for the health of benzene-exposed workers. A total of 3314 benzene-exposed workers, who were from 85 benzene-related enterprises selected by stratified random sampling based on enterprise sizes and industries, were included in the study. The time-weighted average (TWA) concentration of benzene in each workshop was measured by individual sampling and fixed point sampling, and the benzene exposure level in workshop was evaluated accordingly. The occupational health examination results and health status of benzene-exposed workers were collected. The median of TW A concentrations of benzene was 0.3 mg/m3. The TWA concentrations measured at 7 ( 1.4%) of the 504 sampling points were above the safety limit. Of the 7 points, 3 were from large enterprises, 2 from medium enterprises, and 2 from small enterprises; 3 were from shipbuilding industry, 1 from chemical industry, and 3 from light industry. Of the 3314 benzene-exposed workers, 451 ( 13.6%) had cytopenia, including 339 males ( 339/2548, 13.3%) and 112 females ( 112/766, 14.6% ). There were significant differences in the incidence rates of leukopenia and neutropenia among the benzene-exposed workers of different sexes and ages (P<0.05); there were significant differences in the incidence rate of cytopenia among the benzene-exposed workers of different ages and working years ( P<0.05 ); there were significant differences in the incidence of neutropenia among the benzene exposed workers of different working years ( P<0.05). Monitoring and intervention measures should be enhanced to protect the benzene-exposed workers in the large enterprises in shipbuilding industry and medium and private enterprises in chemical industry from occupational hazards.

Patient-reported Symptom Burden, Rate of Completion of Palliative Radiotherapy and 30-day Mortality in Two Groups of Cancer Patients Managed With or Without Additional Care by a Multidisciplinary Palliative Care Team.

PubMed

Nieder, Carsten; Dalhaug, Astrid; Haukland, Ellinor; Engljähringer, Kirsten

2018-04-01

The aim of this study was to analyze differences in symptom burden, baseline and outcome parameters, including completion of palliative radiotherapy and 30-day mortality, between patients treated with palliative radiotherapy (RT) who were managed exclusively by regular oncology staff or a multidisciplinary palliative care team (MPCT) in addition. This was a retrospective single-institution analysis. Comparison of two groups of patients: MPCT versus none (n=36 and 65, respectively). All patients provided Edmonton symptom assessment system (ESAS) data before RT. The MPCT group included significantly more patients with reduced performance status. Furthermore, these patients had higher ESAS symptom scores, except for two items (dyspnea, sleep). The largest differences were observed for pain, fatigue, anxiety and depression. The significant difference in pain scores was also reflected in different opioid medication rates. Failure to complete radiotherapy was more common in the MPCT group (11 and 2%, respectively, p=0.05). Thirty-day mortality was different, too (28 and 2%, respectively, p=0.0001). The Kaplan-Meier survival curves were not significantly different (1-year survival rates 21 and 25%, respectively, p=0.27). The MPCT group was characterized by a higher symptom burden. Prognostic factors such as performance status were not balanced between the two groups. Despite this fact, actuarial overall survival was comparable. Given the high rate of 30-day mortality in the MPCT group, efforts to optimize criteria for initiation of radiotherapy are warranted. Copyright© 2018, International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. George J. Delinasios), All rights reserved.

The Effect of Screen Size on Mobile Phone User Comprehension of Health Information and Application Structure: An Experimental Approach.

PubMed

Al Ghamdi, Ebtisam; Yunus, Faisal; Da'ar, Omar; El-Metwally, Ashraf; Khalifa, Mohamed; Aldossari, Bakheet; Househ, Mowafa

2016-01-01

This research analyzes the impact of mobile phone screen size on user comprehension of health information and application structure. Applying experimental approach, we asked randomly selected users to read content and conduct tasks on a commonly used diabetes mobile application using three different mobile phone screen sizes. We timed and tracked a number of parameters, including correctness, effectiveness of completing tasks, content ease of reading, clarity of information organization, and comprehension. The impact of screen size on user comprehension/retention, clarity of information organization, and reading time were mixed. It is assumed on first glance that mobile screen size would affect all qualities of information reading and comprehension, including clarity of displayed information organization, reading time and user comprehension/retention of displayed information, but actually the screen size, in this experimental research, did not have significant impact on user comprehension/retention of the content or on understanding the application structure. However, it did have significant impact on clarity of information organization and reading time. Participants with larger screen size took shorter time reading the content with a significant difference in the ease of reading. While there was no significant difference in the comprehension of information or the application structures, there were a higher task completion rate and a lower number of errors with the bigger screen size. Screen size does not directly affect user comprehension of health information. However, it does affect clarity of information organization, reading time and user's ability to recall information.

Meeting the Needs of Children with Medical Complexity Using a Telehealth Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Care Coordination Model

PubMed Central

Erickson, Mary; Lunos, Scott; Finkelstein, Stanley M.; Looman, Wendy; Celebreeze, Margaret; Garwick, Ann

2015-01-01

Effective care coordination is a key quality and safety strategy for populations with chronic conditions, including children with medical complexity (CMC). However, gaps remain in parent report of the need for care coordination help and receipt of care coordination help. New models must close this gap while maintaining family-centered focus. A three-armed randomized controlled trial conducted in an established medical home utilized an advanced practice registered nurse intervention based on Presler’s model of clinic-based care coordination. The model supported families of CMC across settings using telephone only or telephone and video telehealth care coordination. Effectiveness was evaluated from many perspectives and this paper reports on a subset of outcomes that includes family-centered care (FCC), need for care coordination help and adequacy of care coordination help received. FCC at baseline and end of study showed no significant difference between groups. Median FCC scores of 18.0–20.0 across all groups indicated high FCC within the medical home. No significant differences were found in the need for care coordination help within or between groups and over time. No significant difference was found in the adequacy of help received between groups at baseline. However, this indicator increased significantly over time for both intervention groups. These findings suggest that in an established medical home with high levels of FCC, families of CMC have unmet needs for care coordination help that are addressed by the APRN telehealth care coordination model. PMID:25424455

Randomized controlled trial of moderate hypothermia versus deep hypothermia anesthesia on brain injury during Stanford A aortic dissection surgery.

PubMed

Sun, Xufang; Yang, Hua; Li, Xinyu; Wang, Yue; Zhang, Chuncheng; Song, Zhimin; Pan, Zhenxiang

2018-01-01

This study aimed to compare the effects of moderate versus deep hypothermia anesthesia for Stanford A aortic dissection surgery on brain injury. A total of 82 patients who would undergo Stanford A aortic dissection surgery were randomized into two groups: moderate hypothermia group (MH, n = 40, nasopharyngeal temperature 25 °C, and rectal temperature 28 °C) and deep hypothermia group (DH, n = 42, nasopharyngeal temperature 20 °C, and rectal temperature 25 °C). Different vascular replacement techniques including aortic root replacement, Bentall, and Wheat were used. The intraoperative and postoperative indicators of these patients were recorded. There were no differences in intraoperative and postoperative measures between MH and DH groups. The concentrations of neuron-specific enolase and S-100β increased with operation time, and were significantly lower in MH group than those in the DH group (P < 0.05). The occurrence rates of complications including chenosis, postoperative agitation, and neurological complications in MH group were significantly lower than in DH group. The recovery time, postoperative tube, and ICU intubation stay were significantly shorter in MH group than those in DH group (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences revealed in hospital stay and death rate. MH exhibited better cerebral protective effects, less complications, and shorter tube time than DH in surgery for Stanford A aortic dissection.

Effects of Fatigue on Driving Safety: A Comparison of Brake Reaction Times in Night Float and Postcall Physicians in Training

PubMed Central

Talusan, Paul G.; Long, Theodore; Halim, Andrea; Guliani, Laura; Carroll, Nicole; Reach, John

2014-01-01

Background Concerns about duty hour and resident safety have fostered discussion about postshift fatigue and driving impairment. Objective We assessed how converting to a night float schedule for overnight coverage affected driving safety for trainees. Methods Brake reaction times were measured for internal medicine and orthopaedic surgery resident volunteers after a traditional 28-hour call shift and after a night float shift. We conducted matched paired t tests of preshift and postshift reaction time means. Participants also completed the Epworth Sleepiness Scale pre- and postshift. Results From June to July 2013, we enrolled 58 interns and residents (28 orthopaedic surgery, 30 internal medicine). We included 24 (41%) trainees on night float rotations and 34 (59%) trainees on traditional 28-hour call shifts. For all residents on night float rotations, there was no significant difference pre- and postshift. An increase in reaction times was noted among trainees on 28-hour call rotations. This included no effect on reaction times for internal medicine trainees pre- and postshift, and an increase in reaction times for orthopaedic trainees. For both night float and traditional call groups, there were significant increases in the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Conclusions Trainees on traditional 28-hour call rotations had significantly worse postshift brake reaction times, whereas trainees on night float rotations had no difference. Orthopaedic trainees had significant differences in brake reaction times after a traditional call shift. PMID:26140113

Meeting the needs of children with medical complexity using a telehealth advanced practice registered nurse care coordination model.

PubMed

Cady, Rhonda G; Erickson, Mary; Lunos, Scott; Finkelstein, Stanley M; Looman, Wendy; Celebreeze, Margaret; Garwick, Ann

2015-07-01

Effective care coordination is a key quality and safety strategy for populations with chronic conditions, including children with medical complexity (CMC). However, gaps remain in parent report of the need for care coordination help and receipt of care coordination help. New models must close this gap while maintaining family-centered focus. A three-armed randomized controlled trial conducted in an established medical home utilized an advanced practice registered nurse intervention based on Presler's model of clinic-based care coordination. The model supported families of CMC across settings using telephone only or telephone and video telehealth care coordination. Effectiveness was evaluated from many perspectives and this paper reports on a subset of outcomes that includes family-centered care (FCC), need for care coordination help and adequacy of care coordination help received. FCC at baseline and end of study showed no significant difference between groups. Median FCC scores of 18.0-20.0 across all groups indicated high FCC within the medical home. No significant differences were found in the need for care coordination help within or between groups and over time. No significant difference was found in the adequacy of help received between groups at baseline. However, this indicator increased significantly over time for both intervention groups. These findings suggest that in an established medical home with high levels of FCC, families of CMC have unmet needs for care coordination help that are addressed by the APRN telehealth care coordination model.

The effects of palatal lengthening on the functional and speech outcomes after submucous cleft palate repair.

PubMed

Ezzat, Abdelrahman E M; El-Begermy, Marwa M; Eid, Mustafa I; Akel, Mabrouk M

2016-02-29

This study was designed to compare intravelar veloplasty with and without V-Y pushback palatoplasty regarding postoperative functional and speech outcomes. is to find out the importance and influence of palatal lengthening on the functional and speech outcomes after SMCP repair. This is a prospective randomized comparative study of 20 patients divided into 2 equal groups. The study was conducted between February 2008 and January 2015. Radical Intravelar Veloplasty (RIVVP group): included 10 patients with a mean age of 5.539±1.335 years and V-Y Pushback Pharyngoplasty and Radical Intravelar Veloplasty (VYP+RIVVP group): included 10 patients with a mean age of 5.688±1.341 years for non-syndromic SMCP. Academic tertiary care medical centres. In both groups there was a significant change in Eustachian tube function, nasal emission and nasal tone of voice postoperatively than preoperatively, while there was no significant difference between both groups in the postoperative outcomes as regards the same parameters (ET function, nasal emission and resonance) (p=0.558, 0.563 and 0.164 respectively). However, there was a significant difference between both groups as regards palatal lengthening, no statistically significant difference was present between both groups as regards the postoperative mean pharyngeal gap, using videoendoscopic analysis. In conclusion, RIVVP and VYP+RIVVP are both effective methods to repair non-syndromic SMCP. Moreover, the lengthening of the palate in non-syndromic SMCP is an unnecessary process.

Writing for understanding: The effect of using informational writing on student science achievement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parson, Atiya

The purpose of this quantitative study was to investigate whether or not informational writing in the science curriculum would impact fifth grade students' science achievement and conceptual understanding. The population of this study came from a metropolitan school district in the state of Georgia for school year 2012-2013. The quantitative data included students' pretest, posttest, and writing assessment scores. Examination approaches for this study included (a) examining theories and research on learning views for children, (b) determining how writing across the curriculum has worked, and (c) developing a research design for the present study that was based on findings from previous studies. The study was designed to find (a) whether there is a significant differences in science achievement between fifth-grade students who use informational writing weekly during science instruction and ones that do not, and (b) whether there is a significant differences in conceptual understanding of fifth-grade science content for students who use informational writing weekly and fifth-grade students who do not. To answer these questions, students pretest and posttest results were compared to determine if a statistical significance existed after informational writing was implemented in the experimental group for 10 weeks. The results indicate that there was no significant difference in test scores between students receiving the informational writing intervention and students without this intervention. However, this study found that students receiving informational writing intervention had better performance scores on conceptual writing assessment than the students without the intervention.

OPHTHALMIC REFERENCE VALUES AND LESIONS IN TWO CAPTIVE POPULATIONS OF NORTHERN OWLS: GREAT GREY OWLS (STRIX NEBULOSA) AND SNOWY OWLS (BUBO SCANDIACUS).

PubMed

Wills, Sarah; Pinard, Chantale; Nykamp, Stephanie; Beaufrère, Hugues

2016-03-01

This study established ophthalmic reference values and characterized ocular lesions in two captive populations of boreal owls, including 46 eyes of 23 great grey owls (Strix nebulosa) and 38 eyes from 19 snowy owls (Bubo scandiacus). A complete ophthalmologic exam was conducted, including neuro-ophthalmic reflexes, Schirmer tear test I (STT-I), intraocular pressure (IOP) using rebound tonometry, fluorescein staining, horizontal corneal measurements using Jameson calipers, direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy, and ocular ultrasound biometry. Eyes with an STT of <5 mm/min, outliers, and eyes with severe diseases were excluded from reference value analysis. No statistically significant differences were found between right or left eyes in either species or among individuals in different age groups and sexes. Mean intraocular pressures and Schirmer tear tests were also not statistically significantly different between great grey owls and snowy owls (IOP: 9.6 ± 2.6 mm Hg and 9.1 ± 1.9 mm Hg, respectively, and STT-I: 9.8 ± 2.8 mm/min and 9.8 ± 2.4 mm/min, respectively). However, snowy owls overall had a significantly larger eye than did great grey owls, reflected in corneal diameters (23.4 ± 1 vs. 20.0 ± 0.8 mm, respectively) and sonographic biometry. In both species, the most common ocular lesions included keratitis, cataracts, chorioretinal lesions, and abnormal pecten. Establishment of reference ocular parameters will help wildlife veterinarians and rehabilitators determine an appropriate treatment plan and will aid in correctly identifying the presence of ocular disease.

Is Dor fundoplication optimum after laparoscopic Heller myotomy for achalasia? A meta-analysis.

PubMed

Wei, Ming-Tian; He, Ya-Zhou; Deng, Xiang-Bing; Zhang, Yuan-Chuan; Yang, Ting-Han; Jin, Cheng-Wu; Hu, Bing; Wang, Zi-Qiang

2013-11-21

To compare the outcome of acid reflux prevention by Dor fundoplication after laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM) for achalasia. Electronic database PubMed, Ovid (Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews, EmBase and Ovid MEDLINE) and Cochrane Library were searched between January 1995 and September 2012. Bibliographic citation management software (EndNote X3) was used for extracted literature management. Quality assessment of random controlled studies (RCTs) and non-RCTs was performed according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions 5.1.0 and a modification of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, respectively. The data were analyzed using Review Manager (Version 5.1), and sensitivity analysis was performed by sequentially omitting each study. Finally, 6 studies, including a total of 523 achalasia patients, compared Dor fundoplication with other types of fundoplication after LHM (Dor-other group), and 8 studies, including a total of 528 achalasia patients, compared Dor fundoplication with no fundoplication after LHM (Dor-no group). Dor fundoplication was associated with a significantly higher recurrence rate of clinical regurgitation and pathological acid reflux compared with the other fundoplication group (OR = 7.16, 95%CI: 1.25-40.93, P = 0.03, and OR = 3.79, 95%CI: 1.23-11.72, P = 0.02, respectively). In addition, there were no significant differences between Dor fundoplication and no fundoplication in all subjects. Other outcomes, including complications, dysphagia, postoperative physiologic testing, and operation-related data displayed no significant differences in the two comparison groups. Dor fundoplication is not the optimum procedure after LHM for achalasia. We suggest more attention should be paid on quality of life among different fundoplications.

[Exogenous luteinizing hormone for assisted reproduction techniques in poor response patients].

PubMed

Spremović-Radjenović, Svetlana; Gudović, Aleksandra; Lazović, Gordana

2010-07-01

Two gonadotrophins, two cell theory refers to necessity of both gonadotrophin activities for theca and granulose cells steroidogenesis of dominant follicle. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of recombinant LH in women qualified as poor responders in the first assisted reproduction procedure (IVF), on fertility results, expressed as percentage of clinical pregnancies. The study included 12 women, 35 years and older who were their own controls. The next trial of IVF was with the same dose of recombinant FSH and GnRH agonist, and with the same, long protocol. Recombinant LH was added in the dose of 75 IU from the 2nd to 7th day of the cycle, and 150 IU from the 8th day of the cycle to the aspiration of oocytes. Within the two different protocols: there was no significant difference between LH concentration in 8th and 12th day of cycle; there was no significant difference between E2 concentration on day 2nd and day 8th; there was a significant difference between E2 concentrations on day 12th; endometrial thickness was not significantly different on the day of aspiration, neither was the number of follicles and embryos. In the two patients, clinical pregnancy was detected (pregnancy rate 17%), and they delivered in term. So, a statistically significant difference between the two protocols was in the rate of clinical pregnancies. The patients with low response to a long protocol in IVF procedures had significantly better results according to the clinical pregnancy rate when the recombinant LH was added to recombinant FSH in the stimulation protocol.

Social cues and ideology.

PubMed

Mansell, Jordan

2018-01-01

Research shows that individuals with liberal and conservative ideological orientations display different value positions concerning the acceptance of social change and inequality. Research also links the expression of different values to a number of biological factors, including heredity. In light of these biological influences, I investigate whether differences in social values associated with liberal and conservative ideologies reflect alternative strategies to maximize returns from social interactions. Using an American sample of Democrats and Republicans, I test whether information about shared and unshared social values in the form of implicit social attitudes have a disproportionate effect on the willingness of Democrats and Republicans to trust an anonymous social partner. I find evidence that knowledge of shared values significantly increases levels of trust among Democrats but not Republicans. I further find that knowledge of unshared values significantly decreases trust among Republicans but not Democrats. These findings are consistent with studies indicating that differences in ideological orientation are linked to differences in cognition and decision-making.

Individual Differences in Motor Timing and Its Relation to Cognitive and Fine Motor Skills

PubMed Central

Lorås, Håvard; Stensdotter, Ann-Katrin; Öhberg, Fredrik; Sigmundsson, Hermundur

2013-01-01

The present study investigated the relationship between individual differences in timing movements at the level of milliseconds and performance on selected cognitive and fine motor skills. For this purpose, young adult participants (N = 100) performed a repetitive movement task paced by an auditory metronome at different rates. Psychometric measures included the digit-span and symbol search subtasks from the Wechsler battery as well as the Raven SPM. Fine motor skills were assessed with the Purdue Pegboard test. Motor timing performance was significantly related (mean r = .3) to cognitive measures, and explained both unique and shared variance with information-processing speed of Raven's scores. No significant relations were found between motor timing measures and fine motor skills. These results show that individual differences in cognitive and motor timing performance is to some extent dependent upon shared processing not associated with individual differences in manual dexterity. PMID:23874952

Individual differences in motor timing and its relation to cognitive and fine motor skills.

PubMed

Lorås, Håvard; Stensdotter, Ann-Katrin; Öhberg, Fredrik; Sigmundsson, Hermundur

2013-01-01

The present study investigated the relationship between individual differences in timing movements at the level of milliseconds and performance on selected cognitive and fine motor skills. For this purpose, young adult participants (N = 100) performed a repetitive movement task paced by an auditory metronome at different rates. Psychometric measures included the digit-span and symbol search subtasks from the Wechsler battery as well as the Raven SPM. Fine motor skills were assessed with the Purdue Pegboard test. Motor timing performance was significantly related (mean r = .3) to cognitive measures, and explained both unique and shared variance with information-processing speed of Raven's scores. No significant relations were found between motor timing measures and fine motor skills. These results show that individual differences in cognitive and motor timing performance is to some extent dependent upon shared processing not associated with individual differences in manual dexterity.

African-American males in computer science---Examining the pipeline for clogs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stone, Daryl Bryant

The literature on African-American males (AAM) begins with a statement to the effect that "Today young Black men are more likely to be killed or sent to prison than to graduate from college." Why are the numbers of African-American male college graduates decreasing? Why are those enrolled in college not majoring in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines? This research explored why African-American males are not filling the well-recognized industry need for Computer Scientist/Technologists by choosing college tracks to these careers. The literature on STEM disciplines focuses largely on women in STEM, as opposed to minorities, and within minorities, there is a noticeable research gap in addressing the needs and opportunities available to African-American males. The primary goal of this study was therefore to examine the computer science "pipeline" from the African-American male perspective. The method included a "Computer Science Degree Self-Efficacy Scale" be distributed to five groups of African-American male students, to include: (1) fourth graders, (2) eighth graders, (3) eleventh graders, (4) underclass undergraduate computer science majors, and (5) upperclass undergraduate computer science majors. In addition to a 30-question self-efficacy test, subjects from each group were asked to participate in a group discussion about "African-American males in computer science." The audio record of each group meeting provides qualitative data for the study. The hypotheses include the following: (1) There is no significant difference in "Computer Science Degree" self-efficacy between fourth and eighth graders. (2) There is no significant difference in "Computer Science Degree" self-efficacy between eighth and eleventh graders. (3) There is no significant difference in "Computer Science Degree" self-efficacy between eleventh graders and lower-level computer science majors. (4) There is no significant difference in "Computer Science Degree" self-efficacy between lower-level computer science majors and upper-level computer science majors. (5) There is no significant difference in "Computer Science Degree" self-efficacy between each of the five groups of students. Finally, the researcher selected African-American male students attending six primary schools, including the predominately African-American elementary, middle and high school that the researcher attended during his own academic career. Additionally, a racially mixed elementary, middle and high school was selected from the same county in Maryland. Bowie State University provided both the underclass and upperclass computer science majors surveyed in this study. Of the five hypotheses, the sample provided enough evidence to support the claim that there are significant differences in the "Computer Science Degree" self-efficacy between each of the five groups of students. ANOVA analysis by question and total self-efficacy scores provided more results of statistical significance. Additionally, factor analysis and review of the qualitative data provide more insightful results. Overall, the data suggest 'a clog' may exist in the middle school level and students attending racially mixed schools were more confident in their computer, math and science skills. African-American males admit to spending lots of time on social networking websites and emailing, but are 'dis-aware' of the skills and knowledge needed to study in the computing disciplines. The majority of the subjects knew little, if any, AAMs in the 'computing discipline pipeline'. The collegian African-American males, in this study, agree that computer programming is a difficult area and serves as a 'major clog in the pipeline'.

Comparison of analgesic interventions for traumatic rib fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Peek, Jesse; Smeeing, Diederik P J; Hietbrink, Falco; Houwert, Roderick M; Marsman, Marije; de Jong, Mirjam B

2018-02-06

Many studies report on outcomes of analgesic therapy for (suspected) traumatic rib fractures. However, the literature is inconclusive and diverse regarding the management of pain and its effect on pain relief and associated complications. This systematic review and meta-analysis summarizes and compares reduction of pain for the different treatment modalities and as secondary outcome mortality during hospitalization, length of mechanical ventilation, length of hospital stay, length of intensive care unit stay (ICU) and complications such as respiratory, cardiovascular, and/or analgesia-related complications, for four different types of analgesic therapy: epidural analgesia, intravenous analgesia, paravertebral blocks and intercostal blocks. PubMed, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases were searched to identify comparative studies investigating epidural, intravenous, paravertebral and intercostal interventions for traumatic rib fractures, without restriction for study type. The search strategy included keywords and MeSH or Emtree terms relating blunt chest trauma (including rib fractures), analgesic interventions, pain management and complications. A total of 19 papers met our inclusion criteria and were finally included in this systematic review. Significant differences were found in favor of epidural analgesia for the reduction of pain. No significant differences were observed between epidural analgesia, intravenous analgesia, paravertebral blocks and intercostal blocks, for the secondary outcomes. Results of this study show that epidural analgesia provides better pain relief than the other modalities. No differences were observed for secondary endpoints like length of ICU stay, length of mechanical ventilation or pulmonary complications. However, the quality of the available evidence is low, and therefore, preclude strong recommendations.

Patterns of lumbar disc degeneration are different in degenerative disc disease and disc prolapse magnetic resonance imaging analysis of 224 patients.

PubMed

Kanna, Rishi M; Shetty, Ajoy Prasad; Rajasekaran, S

2014-02-01

Existing research on lumbar disc degeneration has remained inconclusive regarding its etiology, pathogenesis, symptomatology, prevention, and management. Degenerative disc disease (DDD) and disc prolapse (DP) are common diseases affecting the lumbar discs. Although they manifest clinically differently, existing studies on disc degeneration have included patients with both these features, leading to wide variations in observations. The possible relationship or disaffect between DDD and DP is not fully evaluated. To analyze the patterns of lumbar disc degeneration in patients with chronic back pain and DDD and those with acute DP. Prospective, magnetic resonance imaging-based radiological study. Two groups of patients (aged 20-50 years) were prospectively studied. Group 1 included patients requiring a single level microdiscectomy for acute DP. Group 2 included patients with chronic low back pain and DDD. Discs were assessed by magnetic resonance imaging through Pfirmann grading, Schmorl nodes, Modic changes, and the total end-plate damage score for all the five lumbar discs. Group 1 (DP) had 91 patients and group 2 (DDD) had 133 patients. DP and DDD patients differed significantly in the number, extent, and severity of degeneration. DDD patients had a significantly higher number of degenerated discs than DP patients (p<.000). The incidence of multilevel and pan-lumbar degeneration was also significantly higher in DDD group. The pattern of degeneration also differed in both the groups. DDD patients had predominant upper lumbar involvement, whereas DP patients had mainly lower lumbar degeneration. Modic changes were more common in DP patients, especially at the prolapsed level. Modic changes were present in 37% of prolapsed levels compared with 9.9% of normal discs (p<.00). The total end-plate damage score had a positive correlation with disc degeneration in both the groups. Further the mean total end-plate damage score at prolapsed level was also significantly higher. The results suggest that patients with disc prolapse, and those with back pain with DDD are clinically and radiologically different groups of patients with varying patterns, severity, and extent of disc degeneration. This is the first study in literature to compare and identify significant differences in these two commonly encountered patient groups. In patients with single-level DP, the majority of the other discs are nondegenerate, the lower lumbar spine is predominantly involved and the end-plate damage is higher. Patients with back pain and DDD have larger number of degenerate discs, early multilevel degeneration, and predominant upper lumbar degeneration. The knowledge that these two groups of patients are different clinically and radiologically is critical for our improved understanding of the disease and for future studies on disc degeneration and disc prolapse. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Salary differences of male and female physician assistant educators.

PubMed

Coombs, Jennifer; Valentin, Virginia

2014-01-01

The Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) annual report has shown substantial salary differences between male and female physician assistant (PA) faculty. Despite this published difference between the salaries, very little research has been conducted on the subject. The purpose of this study is to determine if there is a significant difference between male and female PA faculty salaries. The researchers set out to determine if these differences could be further distinguished by education level, rank, or position. In addition, any difference between the percentages of male and female faculty promoted to higher ranks and in leadership positions was also explored. Salary, gender, degree, rank, and position were obtained and deidentified from the 25th PAEA annual report. SPSS Version 20 was used to analyze the data. Statistical analysis included descriptive measures and an independent t test. Data from only those PA educators who reported full-time employment were used. The final analysis included 477 PA faculty salaries. Female PA educators showed statistically significant lower annual incomes than their male counterparts. The income disparity persisted when differentiated by education, rank, and position. Higher percentages of male PA faculty members were found in higher ranks and in leadership positions. This study confirms previous reports that female PA faculty earn less than their male counterparts. With increasing numbers of female PAs entering academia, the lack of women in leadership positions and the wage disparity are concerning.

Voiding diary might serve as a useful tool to understand differences between bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis and overactive bladder.

PubMed

Kim, Sung Han; Oh, Shin Ah; Oh, Seung-June

2014-02-01

To identify the voiding characteristics of bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis and overactive bladder. Between September 2005 and June 2010, 3-day voiding diaries of 49 consecutive bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis patients and 301 overactive bladder patients were prospectively collected at an outpatient clinic and retrospectively analyzed. The characteristics of the two groups were not significantly different. However, all voiding variables including volume and frequency were significantly different except for the total voided volume: patients with bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis showed significantly higher voiding frequencies, smaller maximal and mean voided volume, and more constant and narrower ranges of voided volume compared with overactive bladder patients (P < 0.005). Furthermore, mean intervals between voiding in bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis were shorter and more consistent during the day and night (P < 0.001), although mean night-time variances were greater than daytime variances. Logistic regression analysis showed that total night-time frequency, maximal night-time voided volume and mean variance of daytime voiding intervals most significantly differentiated the two groups. Some voiding characteristics of bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis and overactive bladder patients differ significantly according to 3-day voiding diary records. These findings provide additional information regarding the differences between these two diseases in the outpatient clinical setting. © 2013 The Japanese Urological Association.

Gender differences and regionalization of the cultural significance of wild mushrooms around La Malinche volcano, Tlaxcala, Mexico.

PubMed

Montoya, A; Torres-García, E A; Kong, A; Estrada-Torres, A; Caballero, J

2012-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the cultural significance of wild mushrooms in 10 communities on the slopes of La Malinche volcano, Tlaxcala. The frequency and order of mention of each mushroom species in interviews of 200 individuals were used as indicators of the relative cultural significance of each species. A X(2) analysis was used to compare the frequency of mention of each species between males and females, and a Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the difference in the total number of fungi mentioned by either gender. Traditional names for mushroom species were documented and frequency of mention assessed through multivariate statistics. The fungi with highest frequency of mention were Amanita basii, Lyophyllum decastes, Boletus pinophilus, Gomphus floccosus and Cantharellus cibarius complex. We found significant differences in the frequency of mention of different fungi by males and females but no significant difference was found for the total number of fungi mentioned by either gender. Principal component analysis suggested a cultural regionalization of La Malinche volcano communities based on preferences for consumption and use of traditional names. We observed two groups: one formed by communities on the eastern part of the volcano (with mixed cultures) and the other including communities on the western slope (ethnic Nahua towns). San Isidro Buensuceso is the most distinct community, according to the criteria in this study.

Seasonal and spatial changes of macrobenthic community structure and diversity in South Yellow Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, X.; Xu, Y.

2016-02-01

The seasonal and spatial characteristics of macrobenthic community in South Yellow Sea were studied based on the data from three voyages carried out in spring, summer and autumn, 2012. A total of 218 species were obtained, including 80 species of Polychaeta, 75 of Crustacea, 35 of Mollusca, 15 of Echinodermata and 13 of other groups. Mean abundance varied from 151.4 ind./m2 in spring to 188 ind./m2 in autumn showing an increasing trend with season and mean biomass ranged from 12.1 g/m2 in spring to 33.4 g/m2 in summer. Mean secondary productivity varied from 2.5 g(AFDW)/(m2·a) in spring to 5.7 g(AFDW)/(m2·a) in summer. Two-way ANOVA indicated that biomass were significantly different among seasons and number of species and Shannon-Weiner index had significant differences among stations. But abundance, Pielou's evenness index and average taxonomic distinctness were not significantly different among either seasons or stations. Non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test showed significant differences of secondary productivity among tations. Two-way crossed ANOSIM indicated overall significant differences of community structure among both seasons and stations. The stations were divided into four groups in spring and five in summer and autumn through the CLUSTER and nMDS analysis. Depth was an important factor influencing distribution of macrobenthos in the South Yellow Sea.

Correlation among auto-refractor, wavefront aberration, and subjective manual refraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Qi; Ren, Qiushi

2005-01-01

Three optometry methods which include auto-refractor, wavefront aberrometer and subjective manual refraction were studied and compared in measuring low order aberrations of 60 people"s 117 normal eyes. Paired t-test and linear regression were used to study these three methods" relationship when measuring myopia with astigmatism. In order to make the analysis more clear, we divided the 117 normal eyes into different groups according to their subjective manual refraction and redid the statistical analysis. Correlations among three methods show significant in sphere, cylinder and axis in all groups, with sphere"s correlation coefficients largest(R>0.98, P<0.01) and cylinder"s smallest (0.900.01). Auto-refractor had significant change from the other two methods when measuring cylinder (P<0.01). The results after grouping differed a little from the analysis among total people. Although three methods showed significant change from each other in certain parameters, the amplitude of these differences were not large, which indicated that the coherence of auto-refractor, wavefront aberrometer and subjective refraction is good. However, we suggested that wavefront aberration measurement could be a good starting point of optometry, subjective refraction is still necessary for refinement.

[Comparative analysis of 6 kinds of bacteria in the subgingival plaque in different types of patients with periodontal diseases].

PubMed

Ma, Ying-ying; Zhang, Tao-wen; Jiang, Yu-xi; Liu, Shu-tai

2015-10-01

To detect the existence of Aa,Pg,Tf,Cr,Ec and Pn in the subgingival plaque, and determine their relationships among different types of periodontal diseases. Dental plaques from 120 subjects were sampled, including 40 volunteers with health periodontal status(Group A) , forty patients with dental plaque-induced gingival diseases(Group B) and 40 patients with moderate or severe chronic periodontitis (Group C) . These samples were detected based on bacterial composition using the terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism of 16S rRNA genes by multiple-polymerase chain reaction. The data was analysed with SPSS 13.0 software package for Chi-square test. The detection rate of Pn, Cr and Pg had significant differences between group A and B. The detection rate of Ec, Cr, Pg, Aa and Tf had significant differences between group C and B. The detection rate of Ec, Pn, Cr, Pg, Aa and Tf had significant differences between group A and C. The rate of Ec, Pn, Cr, Pg and Tf detected in moderate or patients with moderate or severe chronic periodontitis are significantly higher than that in healthy subjects, indicating that these bacteria have certain correlation with chronic periodontitis. The rate of Ec, Cr, Pg and Tf detected in severe chronic periodontitis are significantly higher than that in dental-induced gingivitis, suggesting their close relationship with the progress of periodontal disease.

Graded shuttle run performance by playing positions in elite female basketball.

PubMed

Štrumbelj, Boro; Vučković, Goran; Jakovljević, Saša; Milanović, Zoran; James, Nic; Erčulj, Frane

2015-03-01

A graded shuttle run test was used to assess differences in physiological parameters between playing positions in elite female basketball players. Twenty-four female basketball players (8 guards, 8 forwards, and 8 centers) who played for the senior national teams of Slovenia and Serbia were tested with the 30-15 intermittent fitness test. During the shuttle run, the following physiological parameters were measured: oxygen consumption ((Equation is included in full-text article.)), carbon dioxide production ((Equation is included in full-text article.)), pulmonary ventilation (VE) breath by breath, respiratory quotient, oxygen pulse as the (Equation is included in full-text article.)vs. HR ratio and [LA]. No significant differences were found for any of the measures between the 3 playing positions. Although this finding was surprising, future studies should try to determine whether the tactics used in female basketball determine that the interpositional differences seen in male basketball are not evident.

Repopulation Kinetics and the Linear-Quadratic Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Rourke, S. F. C.; McAneney, H.; Starrett, C.; O'Sullivan, J. M.

2009-08-01

The standard Linear-Quadratic (LQ) survival model for radiotherapy is used to investigate different schedules of radiation treatment planning for advanced head and neck cancer. We explore how these treament protocols may be affected by different tumour repopulation kinetics between treatments. The laws for tumour cell repopulation include the logistic and Gompertz models and this extends the work of Wheldon et al. [1], which was concerned with the case of exponential repopulation between treatments. Treatment schedules investigated include standarized and accelerated fractionation. Calculations based on the present work show, that even with growth laws scaled to ensure that the repopulation kinetics for advanced head and neck cancer are comparable, considerable variation in the survival fraction to orders of magnitude emerged. Calculations show that application of the Gompertz model results in a significantly poorer prognosis for tumour eradication. Gaps in treatment also highlight the differences in the LQ model with the effect of repopulation kinetics included.

Natural Models for Autonomous Control of Spatial Navigation, Sensing, and Guidance

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-05-28

the opsins of deep-sea fishes , including their ability to withstand pressure, a significant study of how sensing proteins function in difficult...polarization sensing, we will gain insight concerning functional differences among materials which could have application for fabrication or design...have made excellent progress towards understanding how polarized-light receptors in animals function as well, including their function at the

Performance-based measures and behavioral ratings of executive function in diagnosing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children.

PubMed

Tan, Alexander; Delgaty, Lauren; Steward, Kayla; Bunner, Melissa

2018-04-16

Deficits in real-world executive functioning (EF) are a frequent characteristic of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, the predictive value of using performance-based and behavioral rating measures of EF when diagnosing ADHD remains unclear. The current study investigates the use of performance-based EF measures and a parent-report questionnaire with established ecological validity and clinical utility when diagnosing ADHD. Participants included 21 healthy controls, 21 ADHD-primary inattentive, and 21 ADHD-combined type subjects aged 6-15 years. A brief neuropsychological battery was administered to each subject including common EF assessment measures. Significant differences were not found between groups on most performance-based EF measures, whereas significant differences (p < 0.05) were found on most parent-report behavioral rating scales. Furthermore, performance-based measures did not predict group membership above chance levels. Results further support differences in predictive value of EF performance-based measures compared to parent-report questionnaires when diagnosing ADHD. Further research must investigate the relationship between performance-based and behavioral rating measures when assessing EF in ADHD.

Laparoscopic versus conventional open surgery for immune function in patients with colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Liu, Chuanyuan; Liu, Jungang; Zhang, Sen

2011-11-01

To systematically evaluate the immune function in patients with colorectal cancer after laparoscopic surgery (LS) and conventional open surgery (OS). PUBMED, EMBASE, and the Cochrane library were searched and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the immunological difference between LS and OS were included. Two authors extracted data and assessed trial quality. Eleven studies including 695 patients were analysed. Immune-competent cells demonstrated no significant differences between LS and OS in six trials. Eight trials assessed various perioperative plasma cytokine concentrations with no significant differences in interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels between LS and OS. However, meta-analysis showed higher T suppressor lymphocytes (CD8+) counts on postoperative days (POD) 1-3 and lower plasma levels of CRP on POD 0-1 in LS group compared with OS group. Although LS groups displayed higher T suppressor lymphocyte (CD8+) counts on postoperative days (POD) 1-3 and lower plasma levels of CRP on POD 0-1, there is no sufficient evidence to support superior preservation of global immune function with LS compared to OS.

The Effect of Ivermectin in Seven Strains of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) Including a Genetically Diverse Laboratory Strain and Three Permethrin Resistant Strains

PubMed Central

Deus, K. M.; Saavedra-rodriguez, K.; Butters, M. P.; Black, W. C.; Foy, B. D.

2014-01-01

Seven different strains of Aedes aegypti (L.), including a genetically diverse laboratory strain, three laboratory-selected permethrin-resistant strains, a standard reference strain, and two recently colonized strains were fed on human blood containing various concentrations of ivermectin. Ivermectin reduced adult survival, fecundity, and hatch rate of eggs laid by ivermectin-treated adults in all seven strains. The LC50 of ivermectin for adults and the concentration that prevented 50% of eggs from hatching was calculated for all strains. Considerable variation in adult survival after an ivermectin-bloodmeal occurred among strains, and all three permethrin-resistant strains were significantly less susceptible to ivermectin than the standard reference strain. The hatch rate after an ivermectin bloodmeal was less variable among strains, and only one of the permethrin-resistant strains differed significantly from the standard reference strain. Our studies suggest that ivermectin induces adult mortality and decreases the hatch rate of eggs through different mechanisms. A correlation analysis of log-transformed LC50 among strains suggests that permethrin and ivermectin cross-resistance may occur. PMID:22493855

Exploring the Link Between Cognitive Abilities and Speech Recognition in the Elderly Under Different Listening Conditions

PubMed Central

Nuesse, Theresa; Steenken, Rike; Neher, Tobias; Holube, Inga

2018-01-01

Elderly listeners are known to differ considerably in their ability to understand speech in noise. Several studies have addressed the underlying factors that contribute to these differences. These factors include audibility, and age-related changes in supra-threshold auditory processing abilities, and it has been suggested that differences in cognitive abilities may also be important. The objective of this study was to investigate associations between performance in cognitive tasks and speech recognition under different listening conditions in older adults with either age appropriate hearing or hearing-impairment. To that end, speech recognition threshold (SRT) measurements were performed under several masking conditions that varied along the perceptual dimensions of dip listening, spatial separation, and informational masking. In addition, a neuropsychological test battery was administered, which included measures of verbal working and short-term memory, executive functioning, selective and divided attention, and lexical and semantic abilities. Age-matched groups of older adults with either age-appropriate hearing (ENH, n = 20) or aided hearing impairment (EHI, n = 21) participated. In repeated linear regression analyses, composite scores of cognitive test outcomes (evaluated using PCA) were included to predict SRTs. These associations were different for the two groups. When hearing thresholds were controlled for, composed cognitive factors were significantly associated with the SRTs for the ENH listeners. Whereas better lexical and semantic abilities were associated with lower (better) SRTs in this group, there was a negative association between attentional abilities and speech recognition in the presence of spatially separated speech-like maskers. For the EHI group, the pure-tone thresholds (averaged across 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz) were significantly associated with the SRTs, despite the fact that all signals were amplified and therefore in principle audible. PMID:29867654

Comparison of soft tissue balancing, femoral component rotation, and joint line change between the gap balancing and measured resection techniques in primary total knee arthroplasty: A meta-analysis.

PubMed

Moon, Young-Wan; Kim, Hyun-Jung; Ahn, Hyeong-Sik; Park, Chan-Deok; Lee, Dae-Hee

2016-09-01

This meta-analysis was designed to compare the accuracy of soft tissue balancing and femoral component rotation as well as change in joint line positions, between the measured resection and gap balancing techniques in primary total knee arthroplasty. Studies were included in the meta-analysis if they compared soft tissue balancing and/or radiologic outcomes in patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty with the gap balancing and measured resection techniques. Comparisons included differences in flexion/extension, medial/lateral flexion, and medial/lateral extension gaps (LEGs), femoral component rotation, and change in joint line positions. Finally, 8 studies identified via electronic (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library) and manual searches were included. All 8 studies showed a low risk of selection bias and provided detailed demographic data. There was some inherent heterogeneity due to uncontrolled bias, because all included studies were observational comparison studies. The pooled mean difference in gap differences between the gap balancing and measured resection techniques did not differ significantly (-0.09 mm, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.40 to +0.21 mm; P = 0.55), except that the medial/LEG difference was 0.58 mm greater for measured resection than gap balancing (95% CI: -1.01 to -0.15 mm; P = 0.008). Conversely, the pooled mean difference in femoral component external rotation (0.77°, 95% CI: 0.18° to 1.35°; P = 0.01) and joint line change (1.17 mm, 95% CI: 0.82 to 1.52 mm; P < 0.001) were significantly greater for the gap balancing than the measured resection technique. The gap balancing and measured resection techniques showed similar soft tissue balancing, except for medial/LEG difference. However, the femoral component was more externally rotated and the joint line was more elevated with gap balancing than measured resection. These differences were minimal (around 1 mm or 1°) and therefore may have little effect on the biomechanics of the knee joint. This suggests that the gap balancing and measured resection techniques are not mutually exclusive.

Computer and mobile technology interventions for self-management in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

PubMed

McCabe, Catherine; McCann, Margaret; Brady, Anne Marie

2017-05-23

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterised by airflow obstruction due to an abnormal inflammatory response of the lungs to noxious particles or gases, for example, cigarette smoke. The pattern of care for people with moderate to very severe COPD often involves regular lengthy hospital admissions, which result in high healthcare costs and an undesirable effect on quality of life. Research over the past decade has focused on innovative methods for developing enabling and assistive technologies that facilitate patient self-management. To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions delivered by computer and by mobile technology versus face-to-face or hard copy/digital documentary-delivered interventions, or both, in facilitating, supporting, and sustaining self-management among people with COPD. In November 2016, we searched the Cochrane Airways Group Specialised Register (CAGR), which contains trial reports identified through systematic searches of bibliographic databases including the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, AMED, and PsycINFO, and we handsearched respiratory journals and meeting abstracts. We included randomised controlled trials that measured effects of remote and Web 2.0-based interventions defined as technologies including personal computers (PCs) and applications (apps) for mobile technology, such as iPad, Android tablets, smart phones, and Skype, on behavioural change towards self-management of COPD. Comparator interventions included face-to-face and/or hard copy/digital documentary educational/self-management support. Two review authors (CMcC and MMcC) independently screened titles, abstracts, and full-text study reports for inclusion. Two review authors (CMcC and AMB) independently assessed study quality and extracted data. We expressed continuous data as mean differences (MDs) and standardised mean differences (SMDs) for studies using different outcome measurement scales. We included in our review three studies (Moy 2015; Tabak 2013; Voncken-Brewster 2015) with a total of 1580 randomised participants. From Voncken-Brewster 2015, we included the subgroup of individuals with a diagnosis of COPD (284 participants) and excluded those at risk of COPD who had not received a diagnosis (1023 participants). As a result, the total population available for analysis included 557 participants; 319 received smart technology to support self-management and 238 received face-to-face verbal/written or digital information and education about self-management. The average age of participants was 64 years. We included more men than women because the sample from one of the studies consisted of war veterans, most of whom were men. These studies measured five of our nine defined outcomes. None of these studies included outcomes such as self-efficacy, cost-effectiveness, functional capacity, lung function, or anxiety and depression.All three studies included our primary outcome - health-related quality of life (HRQoL) as measured by the Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ) or St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). One study reported our other primary outcomes - hospital admissions and acute exacerbations. Two studies included our secondary outcome of physical activity as measured by daily step counts. One study addressed smoking by providing a narrative analysis. Only one study reported adverse events and noted significant differences between groups, with 43 events noted in the intervention group and eight events in the control group (P = 0.001). For studies that measured outcomes at week four, month four, and month six, the effect of smart technology on self-management and subsequent HRQoL in terms of symptoms and health status was significantly better than when participants received face-to-face/digital and/or written support for self-management of COPD (SMD -0.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.40 to -0.03; P = 0.02). The single study that reported HRQoL at 12 months described no significant between-group differences (MD 1.1, 95% CI -2.2 to 4.5; P = 0.50). Also, hospitalisations (logistic regression odds ratio (OR) 1.6, 95% CI 0.8 to 3.2; P = 0.19) and exacerbations (logistic regression OR 1.4, 95% CI 0.7 to 2.8; P = 0.33) did not differ between groups in the single study that reported these outcomes at 12 months. The activity level of people with COPD at week four, month four, and month six was significantly higher when smart technology was used than when face-to-face/digital and/or written support was provided (MD 864.06 daily steps between groups, 95% CI 369.66 to 1358.46; P = 0.0006). The only study that measured activity levels at 12 months reported no significant differences between groups (mean -108, 95% CI -720 to 505; P = 0.73). Participant engagement in this study was not sustained between four and 12 months. The only study that included smoking cessation found no significant treatment effect (OR 1.06, 95%CI 0.43 to 2.66; P = 0.895). Meta-analyses showed no significant heterogeneity between studies (Chi² = 0.39, P = 0.82; I² = 0% and Chi² = 0.01, P = 0.91; I² = 0%, respectively). Although our review suggests that interventions aimed at facilitating, supporting, and sustaining self-managment in people with COPD and delivered via smart technology significantly improved HRQoL and levels of activity up to six months compared with interventions given through face-to-face/digital and/or written support, no firm conclusions can be drawn. This improvement may not be sustained over a long duration. The only included study that measured outcomes up to 12 months highlighted the need to ensure sustained engagement with the technology over time. Limited evidence suggests that using computer and mobile technology for self-management for people with COPD is not harmful and may be more beneficial for some people than for others, for example, those with an interest in using technology may derive greater benefit.The evidence, provided by three studies at high risk of bias, is of poor quality and is insufficient for advising healthcare professionals, service providers, and members of the public with COPD about the health benefits of using smart technology as an effective means of supporting, encouraging, and sustaining self-management. Further research that focuses on outcomes relevant to different stages of COPD is needed. Researchers should provide clear information on how self-management is assessed and should include longitudinal measures that allow comment on behavioural change.

Sports injuries in women: sex- and gender-based differences in etiology and prevention.

PubMed

Templeton, Kimberly J; Hame, Sharon L; Hannafin, Jo A; Griffin, Letha Y; Tosi, Laura L; Shields, Naomi N

2008-01-01

There has been a significant increase in the participation of women in sports at all levels, especially after the enactment of the Title IX Education Amendment in 1972. This increased participation at all levels has resulted in more women sustaining sports injuries. Data on sex- and gender-based differences in all organ systems, including the musculoskeletal system, are beign gathered. It is important to review some of the areas of sex- and gender-based differences in sports injuries for which there is significant research, such as osteoporosis, the female athlete triad, and anterior cruciate ligament injuries. It is also necessary to examine those areas in which more information is needed, such as injuries to the shoulder, foot, and ankle.

Metals

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kirkemo, Harold; Goudarzi, Gus H.

1978-01-01

There has been a general lag in minerals-exploration activity in the past few years. Government concern is reviewed in this article, along with significant developments that included the discovery of additional bauxite, copper, and molybdenum deposits and the reopening of different mining operations. (MA)

Pharmacokinetics and metabolic rates of acetyl salicylic acid and its metabolites in an Otomi ethnic group of Mexico.

PubMed

Lares-Asseff, Ismael; Juárez-Olguín, Hugo; Flores-Pérez, Janett; Guillé-Pérez, Adrian; Vargas, Arturo

2004-05-01

The objective of this study was to determine pharmacokinetic differences of acetyl salicylic acid (ASA) and its metabolites: gentisic acid (GA), salicylic acid (SA) and salicyluric acid (SUA) between Otomies and Mesticians healthy subjects. Design. Ten Otomies and 10 Mesticians were included. After a single dose of aspirin given orally (15 mg/kg), blood and urine samples were collected at different times. Results. Pharmacokinetic parameters of salicylates showed significant differences, except distribution volume of SA, and elimination half-life of SUA. Metabolic rates of ASA showed significant differences for all rates between both groups. On the other hand, percentages of dose excreted were more reduced for SA and SUA for the Otomies than for the Mesticians. Conclusion. Results reflect differences in the hydrolysis way i.e. from ASA to SA and aromatic hydroxylation i.e. from SA to GA, which were slower in Otomies subjects, showing a possible pharmacokinetic differences about the capabilities of ASA biotransformation as a consequence of ethnic differences.

[Study on nutrient and salinity in soil covered with different vegetations in Shuangtaizi estuarine wetlands].

PubMed

Song, Xiao-Lin; Lü, Xian-Guo; Zhang, Zhong-Sheng; Chen, Zhi-Ke; Liu, Zheng-Mao

2011-09-01

Nutrient elements and salinity in soil covered by different vegetations including Phragmites australis (Clay.) Trin., Typha orientalis Presl., Puccinellia distans Parl, and Suaeda salsa in Shuangtaizi estuarine wetlands were investigated to study their distribution characteristics and to reveal the nutrient element variation during the vegetation succession processes. Results indicated that total potassium, total phosphorus and salinity were different significantly in soil between different plant communities while available phosphorus, total nitrogen, available nitrogen, available potassium, total sulfur, iron and soil organic carbon were different insignificantly. Correlation analysis suggested that soil organic carbon were related significantly to total nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium, which implied that decomposition of plant litter might be the mail source of soil nitrogen and available nutrient. Salinity was significantly related to total phosphorus and iron in soil. In Shuangtaizi estuarine wetland soil, ratios of carbon to nitrogen (R(C/N)) was in the range of 12.21-26.33 and the average value was 18.21, which was higher than 12.0. It indicated that soil organic carbon in Shuangtaizi estuarine mainly came from land but not ocean and plants contributed the most of soil organic matters. There was no significant difference in R(C/N) between soil from the four plant communities (F = 1.890, p = 0.151). R(C/N) was related significantly to sol salinity (r = 0.346 3, p = 0.035 8) and was increasing with soil salinity.

Laparoscopic colectomy for diverticulitis is not associated with increased morbidity when compared with non-diverticular disease.

PubMed

Schwandner, O; Farke, S; Bruch, H-P

2005-03-01

It was the aim of this prospective study to compare the outcome of laparoscopic sigmoid and anterior resection for diverticulitis and non-diverticular disease. All patients who underwent laparoscopic colectomy for benign and malignant disease within a 10-year period were entered into the prospective PC database registry. For outcome analysis, patients who underwent laparoscopic sigmoid and anterior resection for diverticular disease were compared with patients who underwent the same operation for non-inflammatory (non-diverticular) disease. The parameters analyzed included age, gender, co-morbid conditions, diagnosis, procedure, duration of surgery, transfusion requirements, conversion, morbidity including major (requiring reoperation), minor (conservative treatment) and late-onset (postdischarge) complications, stay in the ICU, hospitalization, and mortality. For objective evaluation, only laparoscopically completed procedures were analyzed. Statistics included Student's t-test and chi-square analysis (p<0.05 was considered statistically significant). A total of 676 patients were evaluated including 363 with diverticular disease and 313 with non-inflammatory disease. There were no significant differences in conversion rates (6.6 vs. 7.3%, p>0.05), so that the laparoscopic completion rate was 93.4% (n=339) in the diverticulitis group and 92.7% (n=290) in the non-diverticulitis group. The two groups did not differ significantly in age or presence of co-morbid conditions (p>0.05). In the diverticulitis group, recurrent diverticulitis (58.4%), and complicated diverticulitis (27.7%) were the most common indications, whereas in the non-diverticulitis group, outlet obstruction by sigmoidoceles (30.0%) and cancer (32.4%) were the main indications. The most common procedure was laparoscopic sigmoid resection, followed by sigmoid resection with rectopexy and anterior resection. No significant differences were documented for major complications (7.4 vs. 7.9%), minor complications (11.5 vs. 14.5%), late-onset complications (3.0 vs. 3.5), reoperation (8.6 vs. 9.3%) or mortality (0.6 vs. 0.7%) between the two groups (p>0.05). In the postoperative course, no differences were noted in terms of stay in the ICU, postoperative ileus, parenteral analgesics, oral feeding, and length of hospitalization (p>0.05). These data indicate that laparoscopic sigmoid and anterior resection can be performed with acceptable morbidity and mortality for both diverticular disease and non-diverticular disease. The results show in particular that laparoscopic resection for inflammation is not associated with increased morbidity.

K-nearest neighbors based methods for identification of different gear crack levels under different motor speeds and loads: Revisited

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Dong

2016-03-01

Gears are the most commonly used components in mechanical transmission systems. Their failures may cause transmission system breakdown and result in economic loss. Identification of different gear crack levels is important to prevent any unexpected gear failure because gear cracks lead to gear tooth breakage. Signal processing based methods mainly require expertize to explain gear fault signatures which is usually not easy to be achieved by ordinary users. In order to automatically identify different gear crack levels, intelligent gear crack identification methods should be developed. The previous case studies experimentally proved that K-nearest neighbors based methods exhibit high prediction accuracies for identification of 3 different gear crack levels under different motor speeds and loads. In this short communication, to further enhance prediction accuracies of existing K-nearest neighbors based methods and extend identification of 3 different gear crack levels to identification of 5 different gear crack levels, redundant statistical features are constructed by using Daubechies 44 (db44) binary wavelet packet transform at different wavelet decomposition levels, prior to the use of a K-nearest neighbors method. The dimensionality of redundant statistical features is 620, which provides richer gear fault signatures. Since many of these statistical features are redundant and highly correlated with each other, dimensionality reduction of redundant statistical features is conducted to obtain new significant statistical features. At last, the K-nearest neighbors method is used to identify 5 different gear crack levels under different motor speeds and loads. A case study including 3 experiments is investigated to demonstrate that the developed method provides higher prediction accuracies than the existing K-nearest neighbors based methods for recognizing different gear crack levels under different motor speeds and loads. Based on the new significant statistical features, some other popular statistical models including linear discriminant analysis, quadratic discriminant analysis, classification and regression tree and naive Bayes classifier, are compared with the developed method. The results show that the developed method has the highest prediction accuracies among these statistical models. Additionally, selection of the number of new significant features and parameter selection of K-nearest neighbors are thoroughly investigated.

Performance evaluation of three different types of local evaporative cooling pads in greenhouses in Sudan.

PubMed

Ahmed, Egbal Mohammed; Abaas, Osama; Ahmed, Mohammed; Ismail, Mohd Rodzi

2011-01-01

This study was conducted in Date Palm Technology Company Limited, Shambat, Khartoum State. To evaluate performance of three types of evaporative cooling pads for greenhouses (celdek pads, straw pads and sliced wood pads), as compared to the conditions outside the greenhouses (control), for pads. Performance evaluation includes environmental parameters (temperature and relative humidity at 8 am, 1 pm and 6 pm) and crop parameters (length and stem diameter, leaves number and width, fruit length and diameter, fruit weight and dry matter and yield). The results obtained for the temperature at 8 am showed that there was no significant difference (0.05) inside the greenhouses, while a high significant difference between the conditions inside and outside of the greenhouses was found. Significant differences were found at 1 pm and 6 pm between all treatments as compared to the conditions outside the greenhouses, and the results obtained for relative humidity showed high significant differences at 8 am and 1 pm inside the greenhouses and between inside and outside the greenhouse, respectively, while there was no significant difference at 6 pm inside the greenhouses and between inside and outside the greenhouses. On the other hand, the results obtained for crop parameters showed that there were significant differences between all parameters inside the greenhouses and outside the greenhouses; however, the greenhouses with sliced wood pads gave the highest yield and the greenhouses with straw pads gave the least and conditions outside gave the lowest. This study indicated that the sliced wood pads are better than the other evaporative cooling pads.

On the feasibility of interoperable schemes in hand biometrics.

PubMed

Morales, Aythami; González, Ester; Ferrer, Miguel A

2012-01-01

Personal recognition through hand-based biometrics has attracted the interest of many researchers in the last twenty years. A significant number of proposals based on different procedures and acquisition devices have been published in the literature. However, comparisons between devices and their interoperability have not been thoroughly studied. This paper tries to fill this gap by proposing procedures to improve the interoperability among different hand biometric schemes. The experiments were conducted on a database made up of 8,320 hand images acquired from six different hand biometric schemes, including a flat scanner, webcams at different wavelengths, high quality cameras, and contactless devices. Acquisitions on both sides of the hand were included. Our experiment includes four feature extraction methods which determine the best performance among the different scenarios for two of the most popular hand biometrics: hand shape and palm print. We propose smoothing techniques at the image and feature levels to reduce interdevice variability. Results suggest that comparative hand shape offers better performance in terms of interoperability than palm prints, but palm prints can be more effective when using similar sensors.

On the Feasibility of Interoperable Schemes in Hand Biometrics

PubMed Central

Morales, Aythami; González, Ester; Ferrer, Miguel A.

2012-01-01

Personal recognition through hand-based biometrics has attracted the interest of many researchers in the last twenty years. A significant number of proposals based on different procedures and acquisition devices have been published in the literature. However, comparisons between devices and their interoperability have not been thoroughly studied. This paper tries to fill this gap by proposing procedures to improve the interoperability among different hand biometric schemes. The experiments were conducted on a database made up of 8,320 hand images acquired from six different hand biometric schemes, including a flat scanner, webcams at different wavelengths, high quality cameras, and contactless devices. Acquisitions on both sides of the hand were included. Our experiment includes four feature extraction methods which determine the best performance among the different scenarios for two of the most popular hand biometrics: hand shape and palm print. We propose smoothing techniques at the image and feature levels to reduce interdevice variability. Results suggest that comparative hand shape offers better performance in terms of interoperability than palm prints, but palm prints can be more effective when using similar sensors. PMID:22438714

Double-Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using Hamstring Tendon Hybrid Grafts in Patients Over 40 Years of Age: Comparisons Between Different Age Groups.

PubMed

Nishio, Yusuke; Kondo, Eiji; Onodera, Jun; Onodera, Tomohiro; Yagi, Tomonori; Iwasaki, Norimasa; Yasuda, Kazunori

2018-05-01

Several recent studies have reported that favorable clinical results and a high level of patient satisfaction can generally be obtained with no increased risk of complications after single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction performed in patients >40 years of age. However, no studies have yet clarified the age-based differences in clinical outcomes after double-bundle reconstruction. To compare clinical outcomes after double-bundle ACL reconstruction using hamstring tendon hybrid grafts between patients in 2 different age groups: ≥40 years and <40 years. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. A retrospective study was conducted using 96 patients (48 men, 48 women ; mean age, 37 years) who underwent unilateral ACL reconstruction between 2008 and 2011. These patients were divided into 2 groups: group M included patients ≥40 years of age (n = 40 patients), and group Y included patients <40 years of age (n = 56 patients). All patients underwent the same anatomic double-bundle ACL reconstruction procedure. Clinical outcomes were evaluated at 2 years after surgery. Tunnel enlargement was also evaluated by computed digital radiography at 1 week and 2 years after surgery. Mean postoperative side-to-side differences in anterior laxity were 0.5 ± 1.9 mm and 1.2 ± 1.5 mm in groups M and Y, respectively; there was a significant difference between the 2 groups ( P = .039). There were no significant differences between the groups in Lysholm knee scores, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores, or peak muscle torque of the hamstring. On the other hand, peak muscle torque of the quadriceps was significantly lower in group M (81%) than in group Y (89%) ( P = .025). With respect to femoral tunnel enlargement, the posterolateral tunnel in group M was significantly larger than that in group Y on anteroposterior and lateral radiographs ( P = .015 and P = .002, respectively). Equivalent clinical outcomes were seen between the 2 age groups after double-bundle ACL reconstruction. Postoperative anterior laxity was significantly less in older patients than in younger patients, however, older patients had significantly less quadriceps muscle strength than younger patients. Surgeons should be aware of residual muscle weakness and tunnel enlargement when performing double-bundle ACL reconstruction in older patients.

Torque loss of different abutment sizes before and after cyclic loading.

PubMed

Moris, Izabela Cristina; Faria, Adriana Cláudia; Ribeiro, Ricardo Faria; Rodrigues, Renata Cristina

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to compare 3.8- and 4.8-mm abutments submitted to simulations of masticatory cycles to examine whether abutment diameter and cemented vs screw-retained crowns affect torque loss of the abutments and crowns. Forty implant/abutment sets were divided into the following groups (n = 10 in each group): (1) G4.8S included 4.8-mm abutment with screw-retained crown; (2) G4.8C included 4.8-mm abutment with cemented crown; (3) G3.8S included 3.8-mm abutment with screw-retained crown; and (4) G3.8C included 3.8-mm abutment with cemented crown. All abutments were tightened with torque values of 20 Ncm, and 10 Ncm for screw-retained crowns. Torque loss was measured before and after cycling loading (300,000 cycles). Torque loss of screw-retained crowns significantly increased after cycling in abutments of groups G3.8S (P ≤ .05) and G4.8S (P = .001). No difference was noted between the abutments before cycling (P = .735), but G3.8S abutments presented greater torque loss than the other groups after cycling (P = .008). Significant differences were noted in the abutment torque loss before and after cycling loading only for the G3.8C group (P ≤ .05). The abutment diameter affects torque loss of screw-retained crowns and leads to failure during the test; mechanical cycling increases torque loss of abutment screw and screw-retained crowns.

Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion versus multiple daily injections in individuals with type 1 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Benkhadra, Khalid; Alahdab, Fares; Tamhane, Shrikant U; McCoy, Rozalina G; Prokop, Larry J; Murad, Mohammad Hassan

2017-01-01

The relative efficacy of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion and multiple daily injections in individuals with type 1 diabetes is unclear. We sought to synthesize the existing evidence about the effect of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion on glycosylated hemoglobin, hypoglycemic events, and time spent in hypoglycemia compared to multiple daily injections. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus from January 2008 through November 2015 for randomized controlled trials that enrolled children or adults with type 1 diabetes. Trials identified in a previous systematic review and published prior to 2008 were also included. We included 25 randomized controlled trials at moderate risk of bias. Meta-analysis showed a significant reduction in glycosylated hemoglobin in patients treated with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion compared to multiple daily injections (mean difference 0.37; 95 % confidence interval, 0.24-0.51). This effect was demonstrated in both children and adults. There was no significant difference in minor or severe hypoglycemic events. Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion was associated with lower incidence of nocturnal hypoglycemia. There was no significant difference in the time spent in hypoglycemia. In children and adults with type 1 diabetes and compared to multiple daily injections, continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion is associated with a modest reduction in glycosylated hemoglobin. There was no difference in severe or minor hypoglycemia, but likely a lower incidence of nocturnal hypoglycemia with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion.

Interval from prostate biopsy to radical prostatectomy does not affect immediate operative outcomes for open or minimally invasive approach.

PubMed

Park, Bumsoo; Choo, Seol Ho; Jeon, Hwang Gyun; Jeong, Byong Chang; Seo, Seong Il; Jeon, Seong Soo; Lee, Hyun Moo; Choi, Han Yong

2014-12-01

Traditionally, urologists recommend an interval of at least 4 weeks after prostate biopsy before radical prostatectomy. The aim of our study was to evaluate whether the interval from prostate biopsy to radical prostatectomy affects immediate operative outcomes, with a focus on differences in surgical approach. The study population of 1,848 radical prostatectomy patients was divided into two groups according to the surgical approach: open or minimally invasive. Open group included perineal and retropubic approach, and minimally invasive group included laparoscopic and robotic approach. The cut-off of the biopsy-to-surgery interval was 4 weeks. Positive surgical margin status, operative time and estimated blood loss were evaluated as endpoint parameters. In the open group, there were significant differences in operative time and estimated blood loss between the <4-week and ≥4-week interval subgroups, but there was no difference in positive margin rate. In the minimally invasive group, there were no differences in the three outcome parameters between the two subgroups. Multivariate analysis revealed that the biopsy-to-surgery interval was not a significant factor affecting immediate operative outcomes in both open and minimally invasive groups, with the exception of the interval ≥4 weeks as a significant factor decreasing operative time in the minimally invasive group. In conclusion, performing open or minimally invasive radical prostatectomy within 4 weeks of prostate biopsy is feasible for both approaches, and is even beneficial for minimally invasive radical prostatectomy to reduce operative time.

Drinking motives as mediators of the impulsivity-substance use relation: pathways for negative urgency, lack of premeditation, and sensation seeking.

PubMed

Adams, Zachary W; Kaiser, Alison J; Lynam, Donald R; Charnigo, Richard J; Milich, Richard

2012-07-01

Trait impulsivity is a reliable, robust predictor of risky, problematic alcohol use. Mounting evidence supports a multidimensional model of impulsivity, whereby several distinct traits serve as personality pathways to rash action. Different impulsivity-related traits may predispose individuals to drink for different reasons (e.g., to enhance pleasure, to cope with distress) and these different motives may, in turn, influence drinking behavior. Previous findings support such a mediational model for two well-studied traits: sensation seeking and lack of premeditation. This study addresses other impulsivity-related traits, including negative urgency. College students (N=432) completed questionnaires assessing personality, drinking motives, and multiple indicators of problematic drinking. Negative urgency, sensation seeking, and lack of premeditation were all significantly related to problematic drinking. When drinking motives were included in the model, direct effects for sensation seeking and lack of premeditation remained significant, and indirect effects of sensation seeking and lack of premeditation on problematic drinking were observed through enhancement motives. A distinct pathway was observed for negative urgency. Negative urgency bore a significant total effect on problematic drinking through both coping and enhancement motives. This study highlights unique motivational pathways through which different impulsive traits may operate, suggesting that interventions aimed at preventing or reducing problematic drinking should be tailored to individuals' personalities. For instance, individuals high in negative urgency may benefit from learning healthier strategies for coping with distress. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Drinking Motives as Mediators of the Impulsivity-Substance Use Relation: Pathways for Negative Urgency, Lack of Premeditation, and Sensation Seeking

PubMed Central

Adams, Zachary W.; Kaiser, Alison J.; Lynam, Donald R.; Charnigo, Richard J.; Milich, Richard

2012-01-01

Trait impulsivity is a reliable, robust predictor of risky, problematic alcohol use. Mounting evidence supports a multidimensional model of impulsivity, whereby several distinct traits serve as personality pathways to rash action. Different impulsivity-related traits may predispose individuals to drink for different reasons (e.g., to enhance pleasure, to cope with distress) and these different motives may, in turn, influence drinking behavior. Previous findings support such a mediational model for two well-studied traits: sensation seeking and lack of premeditation. This study addresses other impulsivity-related traits, including negative urgency. College students (N = 432) completed questionnaires assessing personality, drinking motives, and multiple indicators of problematic drinking. Negative urgency, sensation seeking, and lack of premeditation were all significantly related to problematic drinking. When drinking motives were included in the model, direct effects for sensation seeking and lack of premeditation remained significant, and indirect effects of sensation seeking and lack of premeditation on problematic drinking were observed through enhancement motives. A distinct pathway was observed for negative urgency. Negative urgency bore a significant total effect on problematic drinking through both coping and enhancement motives. This study highlights unique motivational pathways through which different impulsive traits may operate, suggesting that interventions aimed at preventing or reducing problematic drinking should be tailored to individuals' personalities. For instance, individuals high in negative urgency may benefit from learning healthier strategies for coping with distress. PMID:22472524

Basic life support knowledge of secondary school students in cardiopulmonary resuscitation training using a song.

PubMed

Fonseca Del Pozo, Francisco Javier; Valle Alonso, Joaquin; Canales Velis, Nancy Beatriz; Andrade Barahona, Mario Miguel; Siggers, Aidan; Lopera, Elisa

2016-07-20

To examine the effectiveness of a "cardiopulmonary resuscitation song" in improving the basic life support skills of secondary school students. This pre-test/post-test control design study enrolled secondary school students from two middle schools randomly chosen in Córdoba, Andalucia, Spain. The study included 608 teenagers. A random sample of 87 students in the intervention group and 35 in the control group, aged 12-14 years were selected. The intervention included a cardiopulmonary resuscitation song and video. A questionnaire was conducted at three-time points: pre-intervention, one month and eight months post-intervention. On global knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, there were no significant differences between the intervention group and the control group in the trial pre-intervention and at the month post-intervention. However, at 8 months there were significant differences with a p-value = 0.000 (intervention group, 95% CI: 6.39 to 7.13 vs. control group, 95% CI: 4.75 to 5.92), F(1,120)=16.644, p=0.000). In addition, significant differences about students' basic life support knowledge about chest compressions at eight months post-intervention (F(1,120)=15.561, p=0.000) were found. Our study showed that incorporating the song component in the cardiopulmonary resuscitation teaching increased its effectiveness and the ability to remember the cardiopulmonary resuscitation algorithm. Our study highlights the need for different methods in the cardiopulmonary resuscitation teaching to facilitate knowledge retention and increase the number of positive outcomes after sudden cardiac arrest.

Analysis of Age-Related Changes in Asian Facial Skeletons Using 3D Vector Mathematics on Picture Archiving and Communication System Computed Tomography.

PubMed

Kim, Soo Jin; Kim, So Jung; Park, Jee Soo; Byun, Sung Wan; Bae, Jung Ho

2015-09-01

There are marked differences in facial skeletal characteristics between Asian and Caucasian. However, ethnic differences in age-related facial skeletal changes have not yet been fully established. The aims of this study were to evaluate age-related changes in Asian midfacial skeletons and to explore ethnic differences in facial skeletal structures with aging between Caucasian and Asian. The study included 108 men (aged 20-79 years) and 115 women (aged 20-81 years). Axial CT images with a gantry tilt angle of 0 were analyzed. We measured three-dimensional (3D) coordinates at each point with a pixel lens cursor in a picture archiving and communication system (PACS), and angles and widths between the points were calculated using 3D vector mathematics. We analyzed angular changes in 4 bony regions, including the glabellar, orbital, maxillary, and pyriform aperture regions, and changes in the orbital aperture width (distance from the posterior lacrimal crest to the frontozygomatic suture) and the pyriform width (between both upper margins of the pyriform aperture). All 4 midfacial angles in females and glabellar and maxillary angles in males showed statistically significant decreases with aging. On the other hand, the orbital and pyriform widths did not show statistically significant changes with aging. The results of this study suggest that Asian midfacial skeletons may change continuously throughout life, and that there may be significant differences in the midfacial skeleton between both sexes and between ethnic groups.

Novel Nomogram That Predicts Aggressive Disease and Treatment Failure Among African-American Men with Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-01

and 55 AA men within the SCORE database. To date, 6 biomarkers have been analyzed including TMPRSS2-ERG, AMACR, PSMA , RB, c- Myc, and AR. We...analyzed so far including TMPRSS2-ERG, AMACR, PSMA , RB, c-Myc, and AR. In this cohort we observed statistically significant differences in marker...clinical practice. Not yet addressed Conclusion: Of the 20 biomarkers selected, six have been interrogated by IHC including TMPRSS2-ERG, AMACR, PSMA

Impact of a telephonic outreach program on medication adherence in Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD) plan beneficiaries.

PubMed

Park, Haesuk; Adeyemi, Ayoade; Wang, Wei; Roane, Teresa E

To determine the impact of a telephone call reminder program provided by a campus-based medication therapy management call center on medication adherence in Medicare Advantage Part D (MAPD) beneficiaries with hypertension. The reminder call services were offered to eligible MAPD beneficiaries, and they included a live interactive conversation with patients to assess the use of their medications. This study used a quasi-experimental design for comparing the change in medication adherence between the intervention and matched control groups. Adherence, defined by proportion of days covered (PDC), was measured using incurred medication claims 6 months before and after the adherence program was implemented. A difference-in-differences approach with propensity score matching was used. After propensity score matching, paired samples included 563 patients in each of the intervention and control groups. The mean PDC (standard deviation) increased significantly during postintervention period by 17.3% (33.6; P <0.001) and 13.8% (32.3; P <0.001) for the intervention and the control groups, respectively; the greater difference-in-differences increase of 3.5% (36.3) in the intervention group over the control group was statistically significant (P = 0.022). A generalized estimating equation model adjusting for covariates further confirmed that the reminder call group had a significant increase in pre-post PDC (P = 0.021), as compared with the control group. Antihypertensive medication adherence increased in both reminder call and control groups, but the increase was significantly higher in the intervention group. A telephonic outreach program was effective in improving antihypertensive medication adherence in MAPD beneficiaries. Copyright © 2017 American Pharmacists Association®. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Tibial rotation under combined in vivo loading after single- and double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PubMed

Tsarouhas, Alexander; Iosifidis, Michael; Spyropoulos, Giannis; Kotzamitelos, Dimitrios; Tsatalas, Themistoklis; Giakas, Giannis

2011-12-01

To evaluate in vivo the differences in tibial rotation between single- and double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-reconstructed knees under combined loading conditions. An 8-camera optoelectronic system and a force plate were used to collect kinematic and kinetic data from 14 patients with double-bundle ACL reconstruction, 14 patients with single-bundle reconstruction, 12 ACL-deficient subjects, and 12 healthy control individuals while performing 2 tasks. The first included walking, 60° pivoting, and stair ascending, and the second included stair descending, 60° pivoting, and walking. The 2 variables evaluated were the maximum range of internal-external tibial rotation and the maximum knee rotational moment. Tibial rotation angles were not significantly different across the 4 groups (P = .331 and P = .851, respectively) or when side-to-side differences were compared within groups (P = .216 and P = .371, respectively) for the ascending and descending maneuvers, nor were rotational moments among the 4 groups (P = .418 and P = .290, respectively). Similarly, for the descending maneuver, the rotational moments were not significantly different between sides (P = .192). However, for the ascending maneuver, rotational moments of the affected sides were significantly lower by 20.5% and 18.7% compared with their intact counterparts in the single-bundle (P = .015) and double-bundle (P = .05) groups, respectively. High-intensity activities combining stair ascending or descending with pivoting produce similar tibial rotation in single- and double-bundle ACL-reconstructed patients. During such maneuvers, the reconstructed knee may be subjected to significantly lower rotational loads compared with the intact knee. Level III, retrospective comparative study. Copyright © 2011 Arthroscopy Association of North America. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mud-bath therapy and oral glucosamine sulfate in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, controlled, crossover study.

PubMed

Peluso, Rosario; Caso, Francesco; Costa, Luisa; Sorbo, Dario; Carraturo, Nello; Di Minno, Matteo Nicola Dario; Carraturo, Federica; Oriente, Alfonso; Balestrieri, Umberto; Minicucci, Annamaria; Del Puente, Antonio; Scarpa, Raffaele

2016-01-01

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined treatment of mud-bath therapy and glucosamine crystalline sulfate (GlcN-S) in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). This study was a randomised, controlled, crossover investigation. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) by the investigators to two groups, named group 1 and 2. Group 1 included twenty-three patients receiving oral GlcN-S treatment from the beginning of the study (T0) to the end of the 3rd month of treatment (T3) and a combined treatment of both mud-bath therapy and GlcN-S from T3 to the end of the study at six months (T6). Group 2 included twenty-two patients receiving a combined treatment of both mud-bath therapy and GlcN-S from T0 to T3 and that discontinued mud-bath therapy, receiving GlcN-S treatment alone, from T3 to T6. Primary endpoints of the study consisted of evaluating OA severity and activity at baseline and at follow-up visits. All 45 patients, eligible for the study, completed the period of the crossover. In group 1, no significant difference was shown in the comparison from T0 to T3, while from T3 to T6 most variables were significantly improved. In group 2, instead, the comparison between T0 and T3 showed a significant difference in different parameters. When comparing T3 and T6, despite an improvement of all the variables, no significant difference was shown. The association of GlcN-S and mud-bath therapy has a positive and safe role in improving pain, function and quality of life in knee OA patients.

Radiologic discrepancies in children with special healthcare needs in a pediatric emergency department.

PubMed

Festekjian, Ara; Kwan, Karen Y; Chang, Todd P; Lai, Hollie; Fahit, Margil; Liberman, Danica B

2017-12-21

After-hours radiologic interpretation by nonradiology attendings or resident radiologists introduces the risk of discrepancies. Clinical outcomes following radiologic discrepancies among pediatric emergency department (ED) patients are poorly described. In particular, children with special healthcare needs (CSHCN), have more opportunities for discrepancies and potential consequences than non- CSHCN. Our objective was to determine the rates and types of radiologic discrepancies, and to compare CSHCN to non-CSHCN. From July 2014 to February 2015, all children who underwent a diagnostic imaging study at a free-standing children's ED were included. Data collected included radiologic studies - type and location - and clinical details - chief complaint and CSHCN type. Differences between preliminary reads and final pediatric radiology attending reads were defined as discrepancies, and categorized by clinical significance. Descriptive statistics, z-tests, and chi-square were used. Over 8months, 8310 visits (7462 unique patients) had radiologic studies (2620 CSHCN, 5690 non-CSHCN). A total of 198 (2.4%) radiologic discrepancies [56 (28.3%) CSHCN, 142 (71.7%) non-CSHCN] were found. Chief complaints for CSCHN were more often within the cardiac, pulmonary and neurologic systems (p<0.001 for each), whereas non-CSHCN presented with more trauma (p<0.001). The rates of discrepancies (CSHCN 2.1%, non- CSHCN 2.5%, p=0.3) and severity of clinical consequences (p=0.6) were not significantly different between CSHCN and non-CSHCN. Though the frequency and type of radiologic studies performed between CSHCN and non-CSHCN were different, we found no significant difference in the rate of radiologic discrepancies or the rate of clinically significant radiologic discrepancies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Economic evaluation of an intensive group training protocol compared with usual care physiotherapy in patients with chronic low back pain.

PubMed

van der Roer, Nicole; van Tulder, Maurits; van Mechelen, Willem; de Vet, Henrica

2008-02-15

Economic evaluation from a societal perspective conducted alongside a randomized controlled trial with a follow-up of 52 weeks. To evaluate the cost effectiveness and cost utility of an intensive group training protocol compared with usual care physiotherapy in patients with nonspecific chronic low back pain. The intensive group training protocol combines exercise therapy, back school, and behavioral principles. Two studies found a significant reduction in absenteeism for a graded activity program in occupational health care. This program has not yet been evaluated in a primary care physiotherapy setting. Participating physical therapists in primary care recruited 114 patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain. Eligible patients were randomized to either the protocol group or the guideline group. Outcome measures included functional status (Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire), pain intensity (11-point numerical rating scale), general perceived effect and quality of life (EuroQol-5D). Cost data were measured with cost diaries and included direct and indirect costs related to low back pain. After 52 weeks, the direct health care costs were significantly higher for patients in the protocol group, largely due to the costs of the intervention. The mean difference in total costs amounted to [Euro sign] 233 (95% confidence interval: [Euro sign] -2.185; [Euro sign] 2.764). The cost-effectiveness planes indicated no significant differences in cost effectiveness between the 2 groups. The results of this economic evaluation showed no difference in total costs between the protocol group and the guideline group. The differences in effects were small and not statistically significant. At present, national implementation of the protocol is not recommended.

Early changes in inflammatory and pro-thrombotic biomarkers in patients initiating antiretroviral therapy with abacavir or tenofovir

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Abacavir has been associated with an increased risk of acute myocardial infarction, but the pathogenic mechanisms remain unknown. We evaluated longitudinal changes in pro-atherosclerotic biomarkers in patients initiating abacavir or tenofovir. Methods Consecutive patients initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) with abacavir/lamivudine or tenofovir/emtricitabine were included. Plasma levels of high sensitivity C reactive protein (hsCRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were measured at baseline and at different time points throughout 48 weeks. Comparisons were adjusted for age, sex, ART status at inclusion, viral load, lipodystrophy, Framingham score and hepatitis C virus co-infection status. Results 50 patients were analyzed, 28 initiating abacavir and 22 tenofovir. The endothelial biomarker sVCAM-1 declined significantly in both treatment groups. hsCRP tended to increase soon after starting therapy with abacavir, a trend that was not seen in those initiating tenofovir. IL-6 significantly increased only at week 24 from baseline in patients on abacavir (+225%, p < 0.01) although the differences were not significant between groups. The procoagulant biomarker PAI-1 plasma levels increased from baseline at week 12 (+57%; p = 0.017), week 24 (+72%; p = 0.008), and week 48 (+149%; p < 0.001) in patients on tenofovir, but differences between groups were not statistically significant. Conclusion Changes in biomarkers of inflammation, coagulation, and endothelial function are not different in viremic patients starting ART with abacavir/lamivudine or tenofovir/emtricitabine. These changes occur in the early phases of treatment and include anti- and pro-atherosclerotic effects with both drugs. PMID:21294867

Early changes in inflammatory and pro-thrombotic biomarkers in patients initiating antiretroviral therapy with abacavir or tenofovir.

PubMed

Padilla, Sergio; Masiá, Mar; García, Natalia; Jarrin, Inmaculada; Tormo, Consuelo; Gutiérrez, Félix

2011-02-04

Abacavir has been associated with an increased risk of acute myocardial infarction, but the pathogenic mechanisms remain unknown. We evaluated longitudinal changes in pro-atherosclerotic biomarkers in patients initiating abacavir or tenofovir. Consecutive patients initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) with abacavir/lamivudine or tenofovir/emtricitabine were included. Plasma levels of high sensitivity C reactive protein (hsCRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were measured at baseline and at different time points throughout 48 weeks. Comparisons were adjusted for age, sex, ART status at inclusion, viral load, lipodystrophy, Framingham score and hepatitis C virus co-infection status. 50 patients were analyzed, 28 initiating abacavir and 22 tenofovir. The endothelial biomarker sVCAM-1 declined significantly in both treatment groups. hsCRP tended to increase soon after starting therapy with abacavir, a trend that was not seen in those initiating tenofovir. IL-6 significantly increased only at week 24 from baseline in patients on abacavir (+225%, p < 0.01) although the differences were not significant between groups. The procoagulant biomarker PAI-1 plasma levels increased from baseline at week 12 (+57%; p = 0.017), week 24 (+72%; p = 0.008), and week 48 (+149%; p < 0.001) in patients on tenofovir, but differences between groups were not statistically significant. Changes in biomarkers of inflammation, coagulation, and endothelial function are not different in viremic patients starting ART with abacavir/lamivudine or tenofovir/emtricitabine. These changes occur in the early phases of treatment and include anti- and pro-atherosclerotic effects with both drugs.

Early- or mid-trimester amniocentesis biomarkers for predicting preterm delivery: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Liu, Yinglin; Liu, Yukun; Zhang, Rui; Zhu, Liqiong; Feng, Ziya

2017-02-01

To determine the value of early- or mid-trimester amniotic fluid levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8), and glucose for predicting preterm delivery. Randomized controlled trials and two-arm prospective, retrospective, cohorts, and case-controlled studies in which patients received early- or mid-trimester amniocentesis for karyotyping, and biomarker testing of the amniotic fluid was performed and delivery data were available were included in the analysis. Outcome measures were the associations of amniotic fluid IL-6, MMP-8, and glucose levels with preterm delivery. Differences in means with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Of 288 articles identified, 14 were included in the meta-analysis with a total of 675 patients who had preterm birth and 2518 patients who had term births. The preterm-delivery group had significantly higher amniotic fluid IL-6 and MMP-8 levels, and a significantly lower glucose level than the term delivery group (IL-6: difference in means = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.22-0.43, p < 0.001; MMP-8: difference in means = 4.47, 95% CI: 0.83-8.11), p = 0.016; glucose: difference in means = -5.22, 95% CI: -8.19 to -2.26, p = 0.001) Conclusion: Early- or mid-trimester amniotic fluid IL-6, MMP-8, and glucose levels are useful for predicting the risk of preterm delivery. KEY MESSAGES Median amniotic fluid ferritin and IL-6 levels, and mean amniotic fluid ALP levels were higher in the preterm group. The preterm-delivery group had significantly higher amniotic fluid IL-6 and MMP-8 levels, and a significantly lower glucose level than the term-delivery group.

Evaluating the head posture of dentists with no neck pain.

PubMed

Mostamand, J; Lotfi, H; Safi, N

2013-10-01

Dentistry is one of the professions that requires a high degree of concentration during the treatment of patients. There are many predisposing factors, affecting dentists when working on the patient's teeth, including neck flexion, arm abduction and inflexible postural positions, which may put them at the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders related to the neck. Although dentists with long records of service show different levels of pain and discomfort in their necks, there is no evidence regarding whether younger dentists report neck pain before the onset of an abnormal condition in this region, including forward head posture (FHP). Discovering any alteration in the head posture of dentists might confirm one of the reasons for neck pain in this population. Forty one dentists with no neck pain and forty controls having jobs other than dentistry who had no risk factors related to head posture voluntarily participated in the present study. A standard method was used to measure the cervical curve in these two groups. There was no significant difference between the mean values of cervical curve in dentists and the control group (p > 0.05). There was also no significant difference between cervical curve values in dentists working for either 5-8 years or 8-12 years (p > 0.05). The only significant difference was observed in mean cervical curve values of men and women in the dentist group (p < 0.05). No alteration of cervical curve in the dentist group compared to controls might be due to absence of pain sensation in the dentists in the current study. In other words, this group might have not yet experienced sufficient change in head posture to experience significant pain in their neck region. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An analysis of science versus pseudoscience

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hooten, James T.

2011-12-01

This quantitative study identified distinctive features in archival datasets commissioned by the National Science Foundation (NSF) for Science and Engineering Indicators reports. The dependent variables included education level, and scores for science fact knowledge, science process knowledge, and pseudoscience beliefs. The dependent variables were aggregated into nine NSF-defined geographic regions and examined for the years 2004 and 2006. The variables were also examined over all years available in the dataset. Descriptive statistics were determined and tests for normality and homogeneity of variances were performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Analysis of Variance was used to test for statistically significant differences between the nine geographic regions for each of the four dependent variables. Statistical significance of 0.05 was used. Tukey post-hoc analysis was used to compute practical significance of differences between regions. Post-hoc power analysis using G*Power was used to calculate the probability of Type II errors. Tests for correlations across all years of the dependent variables were also performed. Pearson's r was used to indicate the strength of the relationship between the dependent variables. Small to medium differences in science literacy and education level were observed between many of the nine U.S. geographic regions. The most significant differences occurred when the West South Central region was compared to the New England and the Pacific regions. Belief in pseudoscience appeared to be distributed evenly across all U.S. geographic regions. Education level was a strong indicator of science literacy regardless of a respondent's region of residence. Recommendations for further study include more in-depth investigation to uncover the nature of the relationship between education level and belief in pseudoscience.

[Value of quantitative iodine-based material decomposition images with gemstone spectral CT imaging in the follow-up of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after TACE treatment].

PubMed

Xing, Gusheng; Wang, Shuang; Li, Chenrui; Zhao, Xinming; Zhou, Chunwu

2015-03-01

To investigate the value of quantitative iodine-based material decomposition images with gemstone spectral CT imaging in the follow-up of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after transcatheter arterial chemoebolization (TACE). Consecutive 32 HCC patients with previous TACE treatment were included in this study. For the follow-up, arterial phase (AP) and venous phase (VP) dual-phase CT scans were performed with a single-source dual-energy CT scanner (Discovery CT 750HD, GE Healthcare). Iodine concentrations were derived from iodine-based material-decomposition images in the liver parenchyma, tumors and coagulation necrosis (CN) areas. The iodine concentration difference (ICD) between the arterial-phase (AP) and venal-phase (VP) were quantitatively evaluated in different tissues.The lesion-to-normal parenchyma iodine concentration ratio (LNR) was calculated. ROC analysis was performed for the qualitative evaluation, and the area under ROC (Az) was calculated to represent the diagnostic ability of ICD and LNR. In all the 32 HCC patients, the region of interesting (ROI) for iodine concentrations included liver parenchyma (n=42), tumors (n=28) and coagulation necrosis (n=24). During the AP the iodine concentration of CNs (median value 0.088 µg/mm(3)) appeared significantly higher than that of the tumors (0.064 µg/mm(3), P=0.022) and liver parenchyma (0.048 µg/mm(3), P=0.005). But it showed no significant difference between liver parenchyma and tumors (P=0.454). During the VP the iodine concentration in hepatic parenchyma (median value 0.181 µg/mm(3)) was significantly higher than that in CNs (0.140 µg/mm(3), P=0.042). There was no significant difference between liver parenchyma and tumors, CNs and tumors (both P>0.05). The median value of ICD in CNs was 0.006 µg/mm(3), significantly lower than that of the HCC (0.201 µg/mm(3), P<0.001) and hepatic parenchyma (0.117 µg/mm(3), P<0.001). The ICDs in tumors and hepatic parenchyma showed no significant difference (P=0.829). During the AP, the LNR had no significant difference between CNs and tumors (a median value 1.805 vs. 1.310, P=0.389), and during the VP, the difference was also non-significant (the median value 0.647 vs. 0.713, P=0.660). The mean Az value of ICDs for evaluation of surviving tumor tissues was 0.804, whiles LNR measured a disappointing result in both AV images and VP images. Quantitative iodine-based material decomposition images with gemstone spectral CT imaging can improve the diagnostic efficacy of CT imaging for HCC patients after TACE treatment.

[Ecological responses of brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens, to triazophos and deltamethrin on transgenic Bt rice lines and their non-Bt parental rice].

PubMed

Li, Xiang-Dong; Yang, Ya-Jun; Tian, Jun-Ce; Xu, Hong-Xing; Zheng, Xu-Song; Lü, Zhong-Xian

2014-10-01

In this study, the brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens (Hemiptera: Delphacidae), cultured on Bt rice lines (T1C-19 with cry1C gene and T2A-1 with cry2A gene) and their parental rice MH63, were treated with a series of concentrations of triazophos and deltamethrin when they developed up to the third instar for the evaluation of the effects of Bt rice on BPH resurgence induced by pesticides. The results indicated that BPH nymphal duration decreased with the increasing concentration of deltamethrin, while no significant differences of BPH nymphal duration were observed on the same rice variety treated with the different concentrations of triazophos. Furthermore, the survival rate of BPH significantly declined and their fecundity significantly increased with the increasing concentration of insecticides. However, ecological fitness parameters of BPH including nymphal duration, survival rate, female adult mass, fecundity and egg hatchability were not significantly different among Bt and non-Bt rice varieties when they treated with the same concentration of insecticide. These results implied that no significant difference in the BPH resurgence induced by pesticides was observed among the two tested Bt rice varieties and their non-Bt parental rice variety.

Use of high-resolution 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging to characterize atherosclerotic plaques in patients with cerebral infarction

PubMed Central

XU, PENG; LV, LULU; LI, SHAODONG; GE, HAITAO; RONG, YUTAO; HU, CHUNFENG; XU, KAI

2015-01-01

The present study aimed to evaluate the utility of high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the characterization of atherosclerotic plaques in patients with acute and non-acute cerebral infarction. High-resolution MRI of unilateral stenotic middle cerebral arteries was performed to evaluate the degree of stenosis, the wall and plaque areas, plaque enhancement patterns and lumen remodeling features in 15 and 17 patients with acute and non-acute cerebral infarction, respectively. No significant difference was identified in the vascular stenosis rate between acute and non-acute patients. Overall, plaque eccentricity was observed in 29 patients, including 13 acute and 16 non-acute cases, with no significant difference identified between these groups. The wall area of stenotic arteries and the number of cases with plaque enhancement were significantly greater in the acute patients, but no significant difference in plaque or lumen area was identified between the 2 patient groups. Lumen remodeling patterns of stenotic arteries significantly differed between the acute and non-acute patients; the former predominantly demonstrated positive remodeling, and the latter group demonstrated evidence of negative remodeling. In conclusion, patients with acute and non-acute cerebral infarction exhibit specific characteristics in stenotic arteries and plaques, which can be effectively evaluated by high-resolution MRI. PMID:26668651

High-impact strength acrylic denture base material processed by autoclave.

PubMed

Abdulwahhab, Salwan Sami

2013-10-01

To investigate the effect of two different cycles of autoclave processing on the transverse strength, impact strength, surface hardness and the porosity of high-impact strength acrylic denture base material. High Impact Acryl was the heat-cured acrylic denture base material included in the study. A total of 120 specimens were prepared, the specimens were grouped into: control groups in which high-impact strength acrylic resins processed by conventional water-bath processing technique (74°C for 1.5 h then boil for 30 min) and experimental groups in which high-impact strength acrylic resins processed by autoclave at 121°C, 210 kPa .The experimental groups were divided into (fast) groups for 15 min, and (slow) groups for 30 min. To study the effect of the autoclave processing (Tuttnauer 2540EA), four tests were conducted transverse strength (Instron universal testing machine), impact strength (Charpy tester), surface hardness (shore D), and porosity test. The results were analyzed to ANOVA and LSD test. In ANOVA test, there were highly significant differences between the results of the processing techniques in transverse, impact, hardness, and porosity test. The LSD test showed a significant difference between control and fast groups in transverse and hardness tests and a non-significant difference in impact test and a highly significant difference in porosity test; while, there were a highly significant differences between control and slow groups in all examined tests; finally, there were a non-significant difference between fast and slow groups in transverse and porosity tests and a highly significant difference in impact and hardness tests. In the autoclave processing technique, the slow (long) curing cycle improved the tested physical and mechanical properties as compared with the fast (short) curing cycle. The autoclave processing technique improved the tested physical and mechanical properties of High Impact Acryl. Copyright © 2013 Japan Prosthodontic Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of different root canal obturation techniques on bacterial penetration.

PubMed

Yücel, Ali Cağin; Ciftçi, Alper

2006-10-01

The aim of this study was to compare bacterial penetration following obturation with 5 different techniques. This study was performed on 120 teeth including negative control (n = 10), positive control (n = 10), and experimental groups (n = 100). One hundred teeth were randomly divided into 5 groups of 20 teeth each and obturated with System B (Sb), Lateral Compaction (Lc), Thermafil (T), Single ProTaper Gutta-percha (P), and laterally compacted ProTaper Gutta-percha (PLc). Enterococcus faecalis was used for determination of the bacterial penetration. Evaluation was carried out for 60 days. At 30 days, the chi2 test showed that the slowest penetration was observed in Group Sb and Group PLc, which were not significantly different from each other. The fastest penetration in the all experimental groups was observed in Group T and Group P, which were not significantly different from one another. Also, there was no statistically significance difference (P > .05) among all groups at 60 days. It may be concluded that under the conditions of this study System B and laterally compacted ProTaper Gutta-percha prevent bacterial penetration of the root canal at 30 days. Furthermore, there was no difference among obturation techniques at 60 days.

LEFT-RIGHT DIFFERENCES ON TIMED MOTOR EXAMINATION IN CHILDREN

PubMed Central

Roeder, Megan B.; Mahone, E. Mark; Larson, J. Gidley; Mostofsky, S. H.; Cutting, Laurie E.; Goldberg, Melissa C.; Denckla, Martha B.

2008-01-01

Age-related change in the difference between left- and right-side speed on motor examination may be an important indicator of maturation. Cortical maturation and myelination of the corpus callosum are considered to be related to increased bilateral skill and speed on timed motor tasks. We compared left minus right foot, hand, and finger speed differences using the Revised Physical and Neurological Assessment for Subtle Signs (PANESS; Denckla, 1985); examining 130 typically developing right-handed children (65 boys, 65 girls) ages 7−14. Timed tasks included right and left sets of 20 toe taps, 10 toe-heel alternation sequences, 20 hand pats, 10 hand pronate-supinate sets, 20 finger taps, and 5 sequences of each finger-to-thumb apposition. For each individual, six difference scores between left- and right-sided speeded performances of timed motor tasks were analyzed. Left-right differences decreased significantly with age on toe tapping, heel-toe alternations, hand pronation-supination, finger repetition, and finger sequencing. There were significant gender effects for heel-toe sequences (boys showing a greater left-right difference than girls), and a significant interaction between age and gender for hand pronation-supination, such that the magnitude of the left-right difference was similar for younger, compared with older girls, while the difference was significantly larger for younger, compared to older boys. Speed of performing right and left timed motor tasks equalizes with development; for some tasks, the equalization occurs earlier in girls than in boys. PMID:17852124

Comparing millennial and generation X medical students at one medical school.

PubMed

Borges, Nicole J; Manuel, R Stephen; Elam, Carol L; Jones, Bonnie J

2006-06-01

Two main generational cohorts comprising students enrolled in medical schools today are Generation Xers (born 1965-1980) and Millennial students (born 1981-1999). A subset is Cuspars (born 1975-1980), who share traits with both generations. Population theorists ascribe different personal characteristics, attitudes, and preferences to each group. The authors examined whether selected characteristics describing Generation X and Millennial students were quantifiable using a personality measure. Differences among Generation X, Millennial, and Cuspar medical students were investigated. Eight hundred and nine medical students (399 females and 410 males) who matriculated between 1989-94 and 2001-04 at the Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine completed the 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire (16PF). Differences in responses to the 16PF among the three generations were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). Analyses showed significant differences for Generation X versus Millennial students on 10 of the 16 personality factors. Millennial students scored significantly higher than Generation X students on factors including Rule-Consciousness, Emotional Stability, and Perfectionism; Generation X students scored higher than Millennials on Self-Reliance. Millennials also were significantly different from Generation Xers on several other factors. Significant differences were noted among Cuspars, Generation Xers, and Millennials. The 16PF is a useful tool to examine differences among these groups and to help understand the factors that constitute their personalities. Given differences among the generational groups, the authors forecast possible educational implications for medical school academic affairs and student services, and suggest areas for future research.

Host-associated differences in morphometric traits of parasitic larvae Hirsutiella zachvatkini (Actinotrichida: Trombiculidae).

PubMed

Moniuszko, Hanna; Zaleśny, Grzegorz; Mąkol, Joanna

2015-09-01

Examination of host-associated variation in the chigger mite Hirsutiella zachvatkini (Schluger) revealed morphological differences among larvae infesting sympatric hosts: Apodemus agrarius, Apodemus flavicollis and Myodes glareolus. The analysis included 61 variables of larvae obtained from their gnathosoma, idiosoma and legs (measurements and counts). Statistically significant differences were observed for metric characters of the legs as opposed to the scutum. In view of the conspecificity of the mites, supported by comparison of COI gene products obtained from larvae and laboratory-reared deutonymphs, the observed variation is attributed to phenotypic plasticity. The knowledge of larval morphology, including intraspecific variation of metric characters, supported by molecular and host range data, places H. zachvatkini among the most comprehensively defined members of Trombiculidae.

Participation in sports in relation to adolescent growth and development.

PubMed

Brown, Kelly A; Patel, Dilip R; Darmawan, Daphne

2017-07-01

Puberty is defined by physical growth, development of secondary sexual characteristics, and maturation of psychosocial skills. The initiation and rate of progression of pubertal events varies among adolescents, but pubertal changes occur in a predictable stepwise manner. Factors including individual differences in physical and psychosocial development, stage of development based on age (early, middle, and late), and the rate of pubertal development, may all contribute to the way in which adolescents experience sports activities. During adolescence, gender differences also become more apparent and may significantly impact sports participation. As practitioners evaluate overall development and adolescent readiness for sports participation, they should consider the different areas of development including: somatic, neurologic, cognitive, psychosocial-function in an integrated and interdependent approach.

Participation in sports in relation to adolescent growth and development

PubMed Central

Brown, Kelly A.; Darmawan, Daphne

2017-01-01

Puberty is defined by physical growth, development of secondary sexual characteristics, and maturation of psychosocial skills. The initiation and rate of progression of pubertal events varies among adolescents, but pubertal changes occur in a predictable stepwise manner. Factors including individual differences in physical and psychosocial development, stage of development based on age (early, middle, and late), and the rate of pubertal development, may all contribute to the way in which adolescents experience sports activities. During adolescence, gender differences also become more apparent and may significantly impact sports participation. As practitioners evaluate overall development and adolescent readiness for sports participation, they should consider the different areas of development including: somatic, neurologic, cognitive, psychosocial-function in an integrated and interdependent approach. PMID:28795005

Event-related potentials for gender discrimination: an examination between differences in gender discrimination between males and females.

PubMed

Suyama, Natsuka; Hoshiyama, Minoru; Shimizu, Hideki; Saito, Hirofumi

2008-09-01

The event-related potentials (ERP) following presentation of male and female faces were investigated to study differences in the gender discrimination process. Visual stimuli from four categories including male and female faces were presented. For the male subjects, the P220 amplitude of the T5 area following viewing of a female face was significantly larger than that following viewing of a male face. On the other hand for female subjects, the P170 amplitude of the Cz area following observation of a male face was larger than that for a female face. The results indicate that the neural processes, including responsive brain areas used for gender discrimination by observing faces, are different between males and females.

Do Left- and Right-Handed People Have Similar Iron Deposition in the Basal Ganglia?

PubMed

Wang, Dan; Li, Yue-Hua; Wang, He

2016-01-01

This study aimed to investigate whether right-, left-, or mixed-handed people differ in terms of iron deposition using susceptibility weighted imaging in healthy subjects. A total of 87 people (right-handed, 51 subjects; left-handed, 19 subjects; mixed-handed, 17 subjects) aged 20 to 40 years participated. All underwent magnetic resonance examination, including conventional and susceptibility weighted imaging sequences. Phase images were used to quantify iron deposition in the head of the caudate nucleus and lenticular nucleus. The radian angle value was calculated and compared between the 3 (right-, left-, or mixed-handed) groups. There was no significant difference in the radian angle values between left-, right-, or mixed-handed people for either the right or left side of the caudate nucleus head. However, the amount of iron deposition in the left lenticular nucleus was significantly higher for right-handed than for the left-handed subjects (P < 0.001) and significantly higher for mixed-handed than for left-handed subjects (P = 0.006). In addition, the amount of iron deposition in the right lenticular nucleus was significantly lower for left-handed than for right-handed subjects (P < 0.001). The results revealed no significant differences in iron deposition in the head of the caudate nucleus. However, there was a significant difference in iron deposition in the lenticular nucleus between left- and right-handed subjects and between left- and mixed-handed subjects.

Assessing the effect of dietary calcium intake and 25 OHD status on bone turnover in women in Pakistan.

PubMed

Khan, Aysha Habib; Naureen, Ghazala; Iqbal, Romaina; Dar, Farhan Javed

2013-01-01

Bone health assessed in three towns of Karachi, Pakistan in females showed poor calcium intake, vitamin D deficiency, secondary hyperparathyroidism, and high bone turnover. Correlates of high bone turnover included females residing in Saddar Town, underweight females less than 30 years of age from low socio-economic status, and secondary hyperparathyroidism. To assess bone health and association of dietary calcium and 25 hydroxy vitamin D with bone turnover in the community-dwelling females of Karachi. Bone health was assessed in three randomly selected towns of Karachi, Pakistan. One premenopausal female fulfilling the inclusion criteria from each household was included in the study. Dietary calcium was assessed through a food frequency questionnaire and biochemical markers including calcium, phosphates, albumin, magnesium, creatinine, and SGPT, intact parathyroid hormone, 25 hydroxy vitamin D, and N-telopeptide of type I collagen were measured to assess the bone health. Three hundred and five females were included from three towns. Overall, 90.5% of females had vitamin D deficiency with 42.6 and 23.3% having secondary hyperparathyroidism and high bone turn over respectively. Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, secondary hyperparathyroidism, and high bone turnover was significantly different among towns. Mean vitamin D levels were significantly low and iPTH levels significantly high in females with high bone turnover. Calcium intake was not significantly different among females with normal, high, and low bone turnover. Correlates of high bone turnover included females residing in Saddar Town, underweight females less than 30 years of age belonging to low socio-economic status, and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Compromised bone health is seen in community-dwelling females of Karachi. There is a need to perform large-scale community-based studies in all age groups to understand the interplay of markers in our population to understand the impact of these variables translating into the risk of osteoporosis.

Morphologic changes in the mesolimbic pathway in Parkinson's disease motor subtypes.

PubMed

Nyberg, Eric M; Tanabe, Jody; Honce, Justin M; Krmpotich, Theodore; Shelton, Erika; Hedeman, Jessica; Berman, Brian D

2015-05-01

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder associated with gray matter atrophy. Cortical atrophy patterns may further help distinguish between PD motor subtypes. Comparable differences in subcortical volumes have not been found. Twenty-one cognitively intact and treated PD patients, including 12 tremor dominant (TD) subtype, Nine postural instability gait dominant (PIGD) subtype, and 20 matched healthy control subjects underwent 3.0 T high-resolution structural MRI scanning. Subcortical volumetric analysis was performed using FreeSurfer and shape analysis was performed with FIRST to assess for differences between PD patients and controls and between PD subtypes. No significant differences in subcortical volumes were found between motor PD subtypes, but comparing grouped PD patients with controls revealed a significant increase in hippocampal volume in PD patients (p = 0.03). A significant shape difference was detected in the right nucleus accumbens (NAcc) between PD and controls and between motor subtypes. Shape differences were driven by positive deviations in the TD subtype. Correlation analysis revealed a trend between hippocampal volume and decreasing MDS-UPDRS (p = 0.06). While no significant differences in subcortical volumes between PD motor subtypes were found, increased hippocampal volumes were observed in PD patients compared to controls. Right NAcc shape differences in PD patients were driven by changes in the TD subtype. These unexpected findings may be related to the effects of chronic dopaminergic replacement on the mesolimbic pathway. Further studies are needed to replicate and determine the clinical significance of such morphologic changes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Agility and change of direction in soccer: differences according to the player ages.

PubMed

Fiorilli, Giovanni; Mitrotasios, Michalis; Iuliano, Enzo; Pistone, Eugenio M; Aquino, Giovanna; Calcagno, Giuseppe; DI Cagno, Alessandra

2017-12-01

The goal of this study was to compare the changes of direction speed (CODS) and reactive agility (RA) in soccer players of different ages, in order to optimize the best training of these skills. One hundred eighty-seven players, divided into bi-annual age-groups, U12, U14, U16 and U18, performed two tests: Y-Agility Test, carried out in planned and reactive mode (Y-PLAN and Y-REAC) and Illinois for Change of Direction Test (ICODT). Difference between Y-REAC minus Y-PLAN represents the index of reactivity (REAC-INDEX). MANOVA showed significant differences among groups (F3,182=14.591; P<0.01; η2p=0.244). Y-PLAN showed significant differences only between U12 and the other groups (P<0.01). ICODT results were significantly different between the groups U12 and U14 and the other groups (P<0.01). Significant Pearson's correlations between Y-TEST and ICODT, for the three categories of young players (0.398 P<0.05; 0.615 P<0.01; 0.608 P<0.01 respectively), were found, whereas no significant correlation was found in U18 group. The best performance of Y-PLAN and ICODT, through age, depends on physical skill level, whereas the best RA results depend on technique and experience that help the players to use anticipatory skill. The high correlations between CODS and RA performances, differently than adult athletes, suggest that an effective work program for young players may include RA and CODS training at the same time.

The Influence of trisomy 21 on facial form and variability.

PubMed

Starbuck, John M; Cole, Theodore M; Reeves, Roger H; Richtsmeier, Joan T

2017-11-01

Triplication of chromosome 21 (trisomy 21) results in Down syndrome (DS), the most common live-born human aneuploidy. Individuals with DS have a unique facial appearance that can include form changes and altered variability. Using 3D photogrammatic images, 3D coordinate locations of 20 anatomical landmarks, and Euclidean Distance Matrix Analysis methods, we quantitatively test the hypothesis that children with DS (n = 55) exhibit facial form and variance differences relative to two different age-matched (4-12 years) control samples of euploid individuals: biological siblings of individuals with DS (n = 55) and euploid individuals without a sibling with DS (n = 55). Approximately 36% of measurements differ significantly between DS and DS-sibling samples, whereas 46% differ significantly between DS and unrelated control samples. Nearly 14% of measurements differ significantly in variance between DS and DS sibling samples, while 18% of measurements differ significantly in variance between DS and unrelated euploid control samples. Of those measures that showed a significant difference in variance, all were relatively increased in the sample of DS individuals. These results indicate that faces of children with DS are quantitatively more similar to their siblings than to unrelated euploid individuals and exhibit consistent, but slightly increased variation with most individuals falling within the range of normal variation established by euploid samples. These observations provide indirect evidence of the strength of the genetic underpinnings of the resemblance between relatives and the resistance of craniofacial development to genetic perturbations caused by trisomy 21, while underscoring the complexity of the genotype-phenotype map. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Evaluation of Microvascularity by CD34 Expression in Esophagus and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

PubMed

Shahsavari, Fatemeh; Farhadi, Sareh; Sadri, Donia; Sedehi, Marzieh

2015-06-01

The present study was scheduled to evaluate microvascularity by CD34 expression in esophagus and oral squamous cell carcinoma. This study was scheduled using 40 paraffin blocked samples including 20 of oral SCC and 20 of esophagus ones and Immunohistochemical staining was conducted using CD34 monoclonal antibody. Exact fisher test was used to evaluate frequency of expression between two studied groups. There was significant correlation between age and tumor size with CD34 expression in oral SCC samples (p < 0.05) and no significant correlation between sex and tumor differentiation level (grading) (p > 0.05). Also, there was no significant correlation between age, sex, tumor size and tumor differentiation level (grading) with CD34 expression in esophagus SCC samples (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference of CD34 expression frequency in oral and esophagus SCC (p = 0/583). Finally, CD34 expression was reported 'high' for major cases of esophagus and oral SCCs. It seems, other angiogenetic or nonangiogenetic factors except CD34 may play more important role and explain the different clinical behavior of SCC at recent different locations. Other factors would be considered along with CD34 expression to interpret different clinical behavior of SCC at recent different locations.

Student Success in Face-to-Face and Online Sections of Biology Courses at a Community College in East Tennessee

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garman, Deanna Essington

The purpose of this quantitative study was to determine if there were significant differences in student success in face-to-face and online biology courses as categorized by gender, major, and age; and as measured by lecture grades, lab grades, and final course grades. The data used for analyses included data from 170 face-to-face sections and 127 online sections from a biology course during the fall and spring semesters beginning fall 2008 through spring 2011. Researchers have reported mixed findings in previous studies juxtaposing online and face-to-face course delivery formats, from no significant differences to differences in grades, learning styles, and satisfaction levels. Four research questions guided this study with data analysis involving t-tests for independent groups and chi-square tests. This researcher noted significant differences in the results of this study: grades, success rates by gender, success rates by health and nonhealth majors, and nontraditional age (≥25) success rate were higher for students in the face-to-face courses; and the attrition rate was higher for students in the online course sections. There was no significant difference found in the success rate for traditional age (<25) students in the face-to-face sections compared to those in the online sections.

Opiate treatment for opiate withdrawal in newborn infants.

PubMed

Osborn, D A; Jeffery, H E; Cole, M

2005-07-20

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) due to opiate withdrawal may result in disruption of the mother-infant relationship, sleep-wake abnormalities, feeding difficulties, weight loss and seizures. Treatments used to ameliorate symptoms and reduce morbidity include opiates, sedatives and non-pharmacological treatments. To assess the effectiveness and safety of using an opiate, compared to a sedative or non-pharmacological treatment, for treatment of NAS due to withdrawal from opiates. The previous review was updated with additional searches of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2005), MEDLINE (1966-December 2004) and EMBASE (1980-December 2004) supplemented by searches of conference abstracts and citation lists of published articles. Trials enrolling infants with NAS born to mothers with an opiate dependence, with > 80% follow up and using random or quasi-random allocation to opiate or control. Control could include an opiate, sedative or non-pharmacological treatment. Each author assessed study quality and extracted data independently. Primary outcomes included control of symptoms, seizure occurrence, mortality and neurodevelopment. Treatment effect was expressed using relative risk (RR), risk difference (RD), mean difference (MD) and weighted mean difference (WMD). Meta-analysis was performed using a fixed effect model. Seven studies enrolling a total of 585 infants met inclusion criteria (Carin 1983; Finnegan 1984; Jackson 2004; Kaltenbach 1986; Kandall 1983; Khoo 1995; Madden 1977); however, two (Finnegan 1984; Kaltenbach 1986) may be sequential reports that include some identical patients. The studies enrolled infants of mothers who had used opiates with or without other drugs during pregnancy. Methodological concerns included the use of quasi-random rather than random patient allocation methods in three studies; sizeable, largely unexplained differences in reported numbers allocated to each group in four studies; and imbalances in group characteristics after randomisation in one study. Opiate (morphine) vs supportive care only: One study (Khoo 1995) found no significant effect on treatment failure (RR 1.29, 95% CI 0.41, 4.07), a significant increase in hospital stay (MD 15.0 days, 95% CI 8.9, 21.1) and significant reductions in time to regain birthweight (MD -2.8 days, 95% -5.3, -0.3) and duration of supportive care (MD -197.2 minutes/day, 95% CI -274.2, -120.3). Opiate vs phenobarbitone: Meta-analysis of four studies found no significant difference in treatment failure (typical RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.51, 1.11). One of these studies (Finnegan 1984) reported that opiate treatment resulted in a significant reduction in treatment failure among infants of mothers who had used only opiates; however, as this was a post-hoc analysis, this result should be interpreted with caution. One study (Jackson 2004) reported a significant reduction in duration of treatment and admission to the nursery for infants receiving morphine compared to phenobarbitone. One study (Kandall 1983) reported a reduction in seizures, of borderline statistical significance, with the use of opiate. Opiate vs diazepam: Meta-analysis of two studies found a significant reduction in treatment failure (RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.23, 0.80) with the use of opiate. No study reported neurodevelopment by allocated treatment group. Opiates, as compared to supportive care only, appear to reduce the time to regain birth weight and reduce the duration of supportive care, but increase the duration of hospital stay; there is no evidence of effect on treatment failure. When compared to phenobarbitone, opiates may reduce the incidence of seizures but, overall, there is no evidence of effect on treatment failure. One study reported a reduction in duration of treatment and nursery admission for infants on morphine. When compared to diazepam, opiates reduce the incidence of treatment failure. A post-hoc analysis generates the hypothesis that treatment effects may vary according to whether the population includes infants born to all opiate users (i.e. with or without other drug exposure) or is restricted to infants of mothers who used opiates only. In view of the methodologic limitations of the included studies the conclusions of this review should be treated with caution.

Predictors of workplace violence among female sex workers in Tijuana, Mexico.

PubMed

Katsulis, Yasmina; Durfee, Alesha; Lopez, Vera; Robillard, Alyssa

2015-05-01

For sex workers, differences in rates of exposure to workplace violence are likely influenced by a variety of risk factors, including where one works and under what circumstances. Economic stressors, such as housing insecurity, may also increase the likelihood of exposure. Bivariate analyses demonstrate statistically significant associations between workplace violence and selected predictor variables, including age, drug use, exchanging sex for goods, soliciting clients outdoors, and experiencing housing insecurity. Multivariate regression analysis shows that after controlling for each of these variables in one model, only soliciting clients outdoors and housing insecurity emerge as statistically significant predictors for workplace violence. © The Author(s) 2014.

Behavior and orofacial characteristics of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder during a dental visit.

PubMed

Atmetlla, Gabriela; Burgos, Verónica; Carrillo, Angela; Chaskel, Roberto

2006-01-01

ADHD is a neuropsychological disorder, affecting attention, impulsiveness and activeness. The study included 36 children with ADHD, 47 without, and two silent observers. A dental form, SNAP-IV and ADHDT symptom checklists were used. Statistically significant differences were observed in hospitalization histories, oral habits, tongue characteristics, and facial biotype. Differences in orofacial characteristics and behavior between the groups were confirmed.

Female and Male Teachers' Pro-Environmental Behaviour, Conceptions and Attitudes Towards Nature and the Environment Do Not Differ: Ecofeminism Put to the Test

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mc Ewen, B.; Clément, P.; Gericke, N. M.; Nyberg, E.; Hagman, M.; Landström, J.

2015-01-01

Teachers' pro-environmental behaviour, conceptions and attitudes towards nature and the environment were investigated using 47 questions from the BIOHEAD-Citizen questionnaire. The sample included 1,109 pre- and in-service teachers from Sweden and France. Analyses showed only few significant differences between female and male teachers. Forty-one…

Motivators and Barriers to Engaging in Healthy Eating and Physical Activity

PubMed Central

Ashton, Lee M.; Hutchesson, Melinda J.; Rollo, Megan E.; Morgan, Philip J.; Collins, Clare E.

2016-01-01

Many Australian young men (18-25 years) fail to meet recommendations in national dietary or physical activity (PA) guidelines. However, there is a lack of understanding of their perspectives on PA and diet to inform intervention design. This study examined young men’s motivators and barriers to healthy eating and PA, along with differences by demographic and behavioral factors. A cross-sectional online survey was completed by 282 men aged 18 to 25 years in Australia. Results identified the most common motivators for healthy eating included improving health (63.5%), body image (52.3%), and increasing energy (32.1%). Motivators for PA included improving body image (44.6%), fitness (44.2%), and health (41.0%). Common barriers to healthy eating were access to unhealthy foods (61.1%), time to cook/prepare healthy foods (55.0%), and motivation to cook healthy foods (50.7%). Barriers for PA included motivation (66.3%), time (57.8%), and cost of equipment/facilities (33.3%). Significant differences (p < .01) in motivators to healthy eating and/or PA were identified for BMI category, marital status, PA level, alcohol intake, and stress levels. Significant differences were identified for barriers to healthy eating and/or PA by BMI, PA level, stress, and fruit and vegetable intake, assessed using Pearson’s chi-square test. Findings suggest that promotion of benefits related to health, appearance/body image, increased energy and fitness, and addressing key barriers including motivation, time, financial restraints, and accessibility of unhealthy foods, could engage young men in improving lifestyle behaviors. Differences by demographic and behavioral factors suggest development of tailored programs to address diversity among young men may be required. PMID:27923963

Motivators and Barriers to Engaging in Healthy Eating and Physical Activity.

PubMed

Ashton, Lee M; Hutchesson, Melinda J; Rollo, Megan E; Morgan, Philip J; Collins, Clare E

2017-03-01

Many Australian young men (18-25 years) fail to meet recommendations in national dietary or physical activity (PA) guidelines. However, there is a lack of understanding of their perspectives on PA and diet to inform intervention design. This study examined young men's motivators and barriers to healthy eating and PA, along with differences by demographic and behavioral factors. A cross-sectional online survey was completed by 282 men aged 18 to 25 years in Australia. Results identified the most common motivators for healthy eating included improving health (63.5%), body image (52.3%), and increasing energy (32.1%). Motivators for PA included improving body image (44.6%), fitness (44.2%), and health (41.0%). Common barriers to healthy eating were access to unhealthy foods (61.1%), time to cook/prepare healthy foods (55.0%), and motivation to cook healthy foods (50.7%). Barriers for PA included motivation (66.3%), time (57.8%), and cost of equipment/facilities (33.3%). Significant differences ( p < .01) in motivators to healthy eating and/or PA were identified for BMI category, marital status, PA level, alcohol intake, and stress levels. Significant differences were identified for barriers to healthy eating and/or PA by BMI, PA level, stress, and fruit and vegetable intake, assessed using Pearson's chi-square test. Findings suggest that promotion of benefits related to health, appearance/body image, increased energy and fitness, and addressing key barriers including motivation, time, financial restraints, and accessibility of unhealthy foods, could engage young men in improving lifestyle behaviors. Differences by demographic and behavioral factors suggest development of tailored programs to address diversity among young men may be required.

Baclofen for maintenance treatment of opioid dependence: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial [ISRCTN32121581

PubMed Central

Assadi, Seyed Mohammad; Radgoodarzi, Reza; Ahmadi-Abhari, Seyed Ali

2003-01-01

Background Results of preclinical studies suggest that the GABAB receptor agonist baclofen may be useful in treatment of opioid dependence. This study was aimed at assessing the possible efficacy of baclofen for maintenance treatment of opioid dependence. Methods A total of 40 opioid-dependent patients were detoxified and randomly assigned to receive baclofen (60 mg/day) or placebo in a 12-week, double blind, parallel-group trial. Primary outcome measure was retention in treatment. Secondary outcome measures included opioids and alcohol use according to urinalysis and self-report ratings, intensity of opioid craving assessed with a visual analogue scale, opioid withdrawal symptoms as measured by the Short Opiate Withdrawal Scale and depression scores on the Hamilton inventory. Results Treatment retention was significantly higher in the baclofen group. Baclofen also showed a significant superiority over placebo in terms of opiate withdrawal syndrome and depressive symptoms. Non-significant, but generally favorable responses were seen in the baclofen group with other outcome measures including intensity of opioid craving and self-reported opioid and alcohol use. However, no significant difference was seen in the rates of opioid-positive urine tests. Additionally, the drug side effects of the two groups were not significantly different. Conclusion The results support further study of baclofen in the maintenance treatment of opioid dependence. PMID:14624703

The effect of grinding on the mechanical behavior of Y-TZP ceramics: A systematic review and meta-analyses.

PubMed

Pereira, G K R; Fraga, S; Montagner, A F; Soares, F Z M; Kleverlaan, C J; Valandro, L F

2016-10-01

The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature to assess the effect of grinding on the mechanical properties, structural stability and superficial characteristics of Y-TZP ceramics. The MEDLINE via PubMed and Web of Science (ISI - Web of Knowledge) electronic databases were searched with included peer-reviewed publications in English language and with no publication year limit. From 342 potentially eligible studies, 73 were selected for full-text analysis, 30 were included in the systematic review with 20 considered in the meta-analysis. Two reviewers independently selected the studies, extracted the data, and assessed the risk of bias. Statistical analyses were performed using RevMan 5.1, with random effects model, at a significance level of 0.05. A descriptive analysis considering phase transformation, Y-TZP grain size, Vickers hardness, residual stress and aging of all included studies were executed. Four outcomes were considered in the meta-analyses (factor: grinding x as-sintered) in global and subgroups analyses (grinding tool, grit-size and cooling) for flexural strength and roughness (Ra) data. A significant difference (p<0.05) was observed in the global analysis for strength, favoring as-sintered; subgroup analyses revealed that different parameters lead to different effects on strength. In the global analysis for roughness, a significant difference (p<0.05) was observed between conditions, favoring grinding; subgroup analyses revealed that different parameters also lead to different effects on roughness. High heterogeneity was found in some comparisons. Generally grinding promotes decrease in strength and increase in roughness of Y-TZP ceramics. However, the use of a grinding tool that allows greater accuracy of the movement (i.e. contra angle hand-pieces coupled to slowspeed turbines), small grit size (<50μm) and the use of plenty coolant seem to be the main factors to decrease the defect introduction and allow the occurrence of the toughening transformation mechanism, decreasing the risk of deleterious impact on Y-TZP mechanical properties. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Caries risk indicators in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus in relation to metabolic control.

PubMed

El-Tekeya, Magda; El Tantawi, Maha; Fetouh, Hend; Mowafy, Ehsan; Abo Khedr, Nashwa

2012-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the interaction of caries risk indicators and metabolic control in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus. The study included 50 children with type 1 DM and 50 healthy controls, all 6 to 9 years old. Diabetic children were classified into 3 groups: well, fairly, and poorly controlled based on glycosilated hemoglobin level. Personal, family data, medical and dental history were collected. Children were examined for caries experience, plaque, and gingival condition. Saliva samples were obtained for culturing mutans streptococci, lactobacilli, and Candida, and colony forming units were counted. No significant differences existed between all groups regarding caries experience or mean log count of micro-organisms. Diabetic children differed significantly from healthy children in parental occupation and education, dental visits, oral hygiene, and plaque and gingival indices, whereas no differences were observed among children with different levels of metabolic control regarding these factors. Regression analysis identified mutans streptococci as a significant variable affecting caries experience in diabetic children. Regarding the interaction of caries risk indicators and metabolic control on caries experience in diabetic children, the only variable that showed a significant effect was mutans streptococci.

Coagulation tests show significant differences in patients with breast cancer.

PubMed

Tas, Faruk; Kilic, Leyla; Duranyildiz, Derya

2014-06-01

Activated coagulation and fibrinolytic system in cancer patients is associated with tumor stroma formation and metastasis in different cancer types. The aim of this study is to explore the correlation of blood coagulation assays for various clinicopathologic factors in breast cancer patients. A total of 123 female breast cancer patients were enrolled into the study. All the patients were treatment naïve. Pretreatment blood coagulation tests including PT, APTT, PTA, INR, D-dimer, fibrinogen levels, and platelet counts were evaluated. Median age of diagnosis was 51 years old (range 26-82). Twenty-two percent of the group consisted of metastatic breast cancer patients. The plasma level of all coagulation tests revealed statistically significant difference between patient and control group except for PT (p<0.001 for all variables except for PT; p=0.08). Elderly age (>50 years) was associated with higher D-dimer levels (p=0.003). Metastatic patients exhibited significantly higher D-dimer values when compared with early breast cancer patients (p=0.049). Advanced tumor stage (T3 and T4) was associated with higher INR (p=0.05) and lower PTA (p=0.025). In conclusion, coagulation tests show significant differences in patients with breast cancer.