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Statistical Difference (statistical + difference)
Kinds of Statistical Difference Selected AbstractsUse of a 3D dynamometric horseshoe to assess the effects of an all-weather waxed track and a crushed sand track at high speed trot: Preliminary studyEQUINE VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue 3 2009D. Robin Summary Reasons for performing study: Track surface quality is considered a risk factor of musculoskeletal injuries. Ground reaction force (GRF) measurement is a relevant approach to study the interaction between the hoof and the ground. Force plates are not adapted to compare different surfaces at high speed. A 3D dynamometric horseshoe (DHS), using 4 triaxial piezoelectric sensors, has been developed and validated. Objectives: To use the DHS to compare the effects of 2 track surfaces, an all-weather waxed track and a crushed sand track, on the GRF in trotter horses under training conditions. Methods: The right forelimb of 3 French Trotters was equipped with the DHS. Two tracks were tested in a straight line: a crushed sand track (S) and an all-weather waxed track (W). For each session, trials were repeated 3 times in a Latin square design. The speed of the runs was set at 10 m/s and recorded synchronously. For each trial, data acquisition was performed at 600 Hz and 10 consecutive strides were analysed. Statistical differences were tested using a general linear model procedure. Results: The amplitude of the maximal longitudinal braking force (Fx) was significantly lower on W compared to S. This event happened about 6% later in the stance phase on W. The magnitude of the GRF at impact decreased on W. The average speed and the mean stance phase duration were not statistically different on both surfaces. The stride length was about 6 cm longer on S. Conclusion and potential relevance: This study demonstrates the ability and sensitivity of the DHS to discriminate track surfaces by measuring the GRF at high speed. These preliminary results show that the loading rate, the amplitude of horizontal braking and shock at impact are attenuated on W, which suggests a reduction of stresses in the distal limb. [source] Influence of track surface on the equine superficial digital flexor tendon loading in two horses at high speed trotEQUINE VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue 3 2009N. Crevier-Denoix Summary Reasons for performing study: Although track surfaces are a risk factor of tendon injuries, their effects on tendon loading at high speed are unknown. Using a noninvasive ultrasonic technique, it is now possible to evaluate the forces in the superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) in exercise conditions. Objectives: To compare the effects of an all-weather waxed track (W) vs. a crushed sand track (S), on the SDFT loading in the trotter horse at high speed. Methods: Two trotter horses were equipped with the ultrasonic device (1 MHz ultrasonic probe, fixed on the palmar metacarpal area of the right forelimb). For each trial, data acquisition was made at 400 Hz and 10 consecutive strides were analysed. In each session, the 2 track surfaces were tested in a straight line. The speed was imposed at 10 m/s and recorded. The right forelimb was also equipped with a dynamometric horseshoe and skin markers. The horse was filmed with a high-speed camera (600 Hz); all recordings were synchronised. Statistical differences were tested using the GLM procedure (SAS; P<0.05). Results: Maximal tendon force was significantly lower on W compared with S. In addition to maximal force peaks around mid-stance, earlier peaks were observed, more pronounced on S than on W, at about 13%(horse 2) and 30% (both horses) of the stance phase. Comparison with kinematic data revealed that these early peaks were accompanied by plateaux in the fetlock angle-time chart. For high tendon forces, the tendon maximal loading rate was significantly lower on W than on S. Conclusions and potential clinical relevance: The all-weather waxed track appears to induce a lesser and more gradual SDFT loading than crushed sand. The SDFT loading pattern at high speed trot suggests proximal interphalangeal joint movements during limb loading. [source] Costs and health outcomes of intermediate care: results from five UK case study sitesHEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY, Issue 6 2008Billingsley Kaambwa MA Abstract The objectives of this study were to explore the costs and outcomes associated with different types of intermediate care (IC) services, and also to examine the characteristics of patients receiving such services. Five UK case studies of ,whole systems' of IC were used, with data collected on a sample of consecutive IC episodes between January 2003 and January 2004. Statistical differences in costs and outcomes associated with different IC services and patient groups were explored. Factors associated with variation in IC episode outcomes (EuroQol EQ-5D and Barthel Index) were explored using an econometric framework. Data were available for 2253 episodes of IC. In terms of Department of Health criteria, a large proportion of patients (up to 47% of those for whom data were available) in this study were inappropriately admitted to IC services. As regards service function, compared to supported discharge, admission avoidance services were associated with both lower costs and greater health and functional gains. These gains appear to be driven, in part, by illness severity (more dependent patients tended to gain most benefit). In addition, these gains appear to be larger where the admission was appropriate. Our work suggests a need for the development and application of robust and reliable clinical criteria for admission to IC, and close co-operation between hospital and community service providers over selection of patients and targeting of IC and acute care services to meet defined clinical need. [source] EFFECTS OF PRETREATMENT WITH ROSEMARY (ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS L.) IN THE PREVENTION OF LIPID OXIDATION IN SALTED TILAPIA FILLETSJOURNAL OF FOOD QUALITY, Issue 5 2008M. DA SILVA AFONSO ABSTRACT To delay lipid oxidation during meat processing, synthetic antioxidants have been used in the food industry, but the consumers' concern over their toxicity increased interest in research with natural antioxidants. The aim of this work was to analyze the water activity (Aw), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), moisture and trichloroacetic acid-soluble nitrogen (TCASN) in brined tilapia fillets treated or pretreated with natural rosemary extract (Rosmarinus officinalis) and stored for 240 days at ,18C. Higher Aw (0.900 ± 0.010) and moisture (70.13 ± 0.20) values were observed in the pretreated fillets. The TBARS values in the treatment (3.31 ± 0.79) and pretreatment (3.39 ± 0.53) were half the value of the control treatment (6.14 ± 1.21) at 240 days. Statistical differences were observed in TCASN values in 180 (0.112 ± 0.020) and 240 (0.132 ± 0.017) days, with the pretreatment showing a more protective effect in protein oxidation. In this study, rosemary proved to be protective during the frozen storage, especially when its extract was used as pretreatment, before the salting process. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Fish consumption is highly elastic, because the annual average consumption of seafood per person in Brazil is only 6.8 kg. The federal government has set a goal to increase it to 12 kg by 2007. Salting is an older food preservation process still used today, and is extremely important because, despite advances in food technology, increased monitoring and improved knowledge, it is emphasized as an easy, cheap and effective process that does not require refrigeration. Tilapia is a highly prolific fish, with a production volume that is increasingly higher each year in Brazil. Therefore, it calls for interesting research to allow an increased shelf life for this species. [source] Fetal Heart Rate Patterns and Sudden Infant Death SyndromeJOURNAL OF OBSTETRIC, GYNECOLOGIC & NEONATAL NURSING, Issue 1 2006Cydney A. Menihan Objective:, To determine differences in electronic fetal monitoring patterns between infants who died of sudden infant death syndrome and controls. Design:, Case-control study (N= 127). Setting:, A tertiary-level women's hospital in Providence, Rhode Island. Participants:, Infants born between 1990 and 1998 who subsequently died of sudden infant death syndrome and controls. Demographic and clinical data included medical maternal charts and fetal monitoring records. Results:, Compared with controls (n= 98), the mothers whose infants subsequently died of sudden infant death syndrome (n= 29) had lower birthweight babies (sudden infant death syndrome 2,840 vs. controls 3,385 g; p < .01), were younger (22 vs. 28 years; p < .01), were more likely to receive Medicaid health insurance (odds ratio 4.6; confidence interval 1.9-11.2), were more likely to be unmarried (odds ratio 5.2; confidence interval 2.1-12.8), had less intention to breastfeed (26% vs. 57%), and were more likely to smoke (odds ratio 4.6; confidence interval 9-11.2). Main outcome measures:, There were no statistical differences in fetal heart rate variability or sleep/wake cycles detected between groups. Conclusion:, Statistical differences were found in demographic characteristics between sudden infant death syndrome mother-infant couples and their controls. However, no differences were detected in the intrapartum electronic fetal monitoring records, specifically in variability and sleep/wake cycles. JOGNN,35, 116,122; 2006. DOI: 10.1111/J.1552-6909.2006.00013.x [source] Identification of marker genes distinguishing human periodontal ligament cells from human mesenchymal stem cells and human gingival fibroblastsJOURNAL OF PERIODONTAL RESEARCH, Issue 3 2007T. Fujita Background and Objective:, Molecular gene markers, which can distinguish human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells from human fibroblasts, have recently been reported. Messenger RNA levels of tissue factor pathway inhibitor-2, major histocompatibility complex-DR-,, major histocompatibility complex-DR-,, and neuroserpin are higher in human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells than in human fibroblasts. However, human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells express less apolipoprotein D mRNA than human fibroblasts. Periodontal ligament cells are a heterogeneous cell population including fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells, and progenitor cells of osteoblasts or cementoblasts. The use of molecular markers that distinguish human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells from human fibroblasts may provide insight into the characteristics of human periodontal ligament cells. In this study, we compared the molecular markers of human periodontal ligament cells with those of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and human gingival fibroblasts. Material and Methods:, The mRNA expression of the molecular gene markers was analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Statistical differences were determined with the two-sided Mann,Whitney U -test. Results:, Messenger RNA levels of major histocompatibility complex-DR-, and major histocompatibility complex-DR-, were lower and higher, respectively, in human periodontal ligament cells than in human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells or human gingival fibroblasts. Human periodontal ligament cells showed the lowest apolipoprotein D mRNA levels among the three types of cells. Conclusion:, Human periodontal ligament cells may be distinguished from human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and human gingival fibroblasts by the genes for apolipoprotein D, major histocompatibility complex-DR-,, and major histocompatibility complex-DR-,. [source] Effect of diet and ration on the relationship between plasma GH and IGF-1 concentrations in Arctic charr, Salvelinus alpinus (L.)AQUACULTURE RESEARCH, Issue 8 2007Colin Cameron Abstract The purpose of the study was to investigate whether dietary ration or diet composition influence the relationship between plasma growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus L.). The pattern of changes in plasma GH and IGF-1 concentrations was examined in fish fed at different ration levels (0%, 0.35% and 0.70% BW day,1) for 5 weeks, and in fish fed diets containing different lipid:crude protein (LCP) ratios. Ration level significantly affected plasma GH and IGF-1 concentrations; at 5 weeks the levels of both hormones in the food-deprived group were significantly lower than in fish fed the 0.70% BW day,1 ration. Also, plasma IGF-1 levels in fish of each ration treatment group were significantly correlated with individual final body weight; no such correlation was found for GH. To examine the effects of dietary LCP ratios, fish were fed for up to 18 weeks, with one of four formulated diets that had LCP ratios (dry matter basis) of 0.35 (Diet 1), 0.43 (Diet 2), 0.51 (Diet 3) or 0.59 (Diet 4), or a commercial diet (Diet 5) which had an LCP ratio of 0.38. Statistical differences in plasma GH and IGF-1 concentrations were found only after 18 weeks. Growth hormone was significantly lower in fish fed Diets 1 and 2 compared with Diets 3 and 5, and IGF-1 was significantly lower in fish fed Diet 1 compared with Diets 2 and 5. Significant correlations between plasma GH and IGF-1 concentrations were found only for fish fed Diets 1 and 5, suggesting that the influence of diet composition on the relationship between GH and IGF-1 varies with the dietary LCP ratio in this species. The decline in plasma IGF-1 concentrations during food deprivation is similar to that described in other species; however, the unexpected decrease in plasma GH during food deprivation in this study may represent a species-specific response. [source] Video versus traditional informed consent for neonatal circumcisionACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 9 2010Caroline J Chantry Abstract Aim:, To determine if videotapes about newborn circumcision would be superior to traditional physician ,informed consent' discussion for maternal knowledge, satisfaction and perception of provider bias. Design/methods:, A convenience sample of mothers interested in or undecided about circumcision was randomized to watch a video on: (i) circumcision risks/benefits (,Video-Plus' n = 168); or (ii) unrelated material followed by traditional physician risk/benefit discussion (,Standard-MD' n = 136). Questionnaires were administered during hospitalization and subsequent telephone interviews. Statistical differences were analysed by chi-square and Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results:, Most mothers (82%) decided about circumcision prenatally. Fewer mothers perceived bias from the video vs. physicians [1.1% vs. 6.8%, p = 0.04]. Composite knowledge (correct of 10 answers) [ (SD) 6.5 (2.1) vs. 6.4 (2.1), p = 0.78] or satisfaction [5-point Likert scale, 3.98 (1.50) vs. 3.75 (1.58), p = 0.16] did not differ by group, although more highly educated mothers preferred the video [satisfaction 4.08 (1.01) vs. 2.63 (0.99), p = 0.04]. Significant knowledge gaps existed in both groups. Conclusion:, In this setting, no difference in maternal knowledge was found between ,Video-Plus' and traditional informed consent although more highly educated mothers preferred the video. Better ways to achieve understanding of risks and benefits for this elective procedure should be sought. [source] Factors of significance for mobility in children with myelomeningoceleACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 2 2003S Norrlin Aim: To investigate neurological impairment, hand function and cognitive function in a group of children with myelomeningocele, in order to identify factors of significance for independent mobility and the physical assistance required for mobility in daily activities. Methods: The study material comprised 32 children, aged 6,11 y and without mental retardation. Mobility was assessed with the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory, scored as caregiver assistance. Statistical differences and correlations between the caregiver assistance scores and the selected variables were analysed. Results: Nine children scored independent mobility. The independent children had better hand coordination (p= 0.004) and walking ability (p= 0.01), lower cele levels (p= 0.011), higher performance IQ (p= 0.027), better visuospatial function (p= 0.029) and executive function (p= 0.037) than the others. The caregiver assistance scores were lower for both the children with early and severe symptoms of brainstem dysfunction and the children with scoliosis. Statistically significant correlations were found between the need for caregiver assistance and reduced walking ability, high cele level, poor hand strength and coordination, visuospatial function, executive function and performance IQ. In the subgroup of children who needed a wheelchair or walking aids, hand strength was the only variable significantly correlated with caregiver assistance (rs= 0.703, p= 0.000). Conclusion: Most of the children were dependent on others in daily activities. Impaired hand function and cognitive function were significant for mobility, and this has implications for the therapy programme in children with myelomeningocele. [source] CD87 as a marker for terminal granulocytic maturation: Assessment of its expression during granulopoiesisCYTOMETRY, Issue 1 2003M. Tarek Elghetany Abstract Background Understanding the normal surface maturation pattern of granulocytes is essential for the recognition of abnormal patterns, which in turn may be of diagnostic or pathogenetic significance in disorders such as myelodysplastic syndromes and inherited bone marrow failure disorders. CD87 plays a role in cellular interaction, cell migration, and inflammatory response. Surface expression of this antigen has not been adequately studied on bone marrow granulocytes, and the small number of previous studies has provided conflicting data. Methods Bone marrow aspirates from 11 control subjects were studied by flow cytometry and a lysed whole blood technique to compare surface expression of CD87 on marrow granulocytes with those of CD11b, CD16, CD35, and CD10, which are expressed at the myelocyte, metamyelocyte, band, and segmented stage of neutrophilic development, respectively. Four sorting experiments of CD87+ granulocytes were also performed. Results Our study showed no statistical difference between surface expression of CD35 and CD87 (P > 0.3), whereas significant differences existed between CD87 and the other antibodies (P < 0.004). Sorting experiments showed that more than 80% of CD87+ cells were bands and segmented neutrophils. Dual staining for CD87 and CD35 showed that most CD87+ granulocytes coexpress CD35. Conclusions CD87 is expressed on granulocytes at the band and segmented neutrophil stage of development and can be used to study normal and abnormal granulopoiesis. Cytometry Part B (Clin. Cytometry) 51B:9,13, 2003. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Prevalence and causes of fractured permanent incisors in 12-year-old suburban Nigerian schoolchildrenDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2009Comfort A. Adekoya-Sofowora A dental trauma cross-sectional survey was carried out through clinical examination of upper and lower permanent incisors and interviews with 415 (212 boys, 203 girls) 12-year-old children attending private and public secondary schools in lle-Ife, in 2004/2005 by one calibrated examiner. Garcia-Godoy's classification was used. The prevalence of traumatic dental injuries was 12.8%. There was no statistical difference in the prevalence between boys and girls P > 0.05. The most common cause of injuries was falls (49.1%), followed by traffic accidents (13.2%), collision against objects or people (11.3%) and misuse of teeth 9.4%. The commonest type of injury was enamel fracture alone (9.9%), followed by enamel-dentine fracture (4.8%). Majority of the accidents occurred at home (60.4%), followed by school (26.4%). The prevalence of traumatic dental injuries was on the increase among suburban Nigerian children in Ile-Ife and it has a potential to be considered an emerging public health problem. [source] Biocompatibility evaluation of alendronate paste in rat's subcutaneous tissueDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 2 2009Graziela Garrido Mori Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the biocompatibility of experimental alendronate paste in subcutaneous tissue of rats, for utilization in teeth susceptible to root resorption. The study was conducted on 15 male rats, weighing ,180,200 grams. The rats' dorsal regions were submitted to one incision on the median region and, laterally to the incision, the subcutaneous tissue was raised and gently dissected for introduction of two tubes, in each rat. The tubes were sealed at one end with gutta-percha and taken as control. The tubes were filled with experimental alendronate paste. The animals were killed at 7, 15 and 45 days after surgery and the specimens were processed in laboratory. The histological sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and analyzed by light microscopy. Scores were assigned to the inflammatory process and statistically compared by the Tukey test (P < 0.05). Alendronate paste promoted severe inflammation process at 7 days, with statistically significant difference compared to the control (P < 0.05%). However, at 15 days, there was a regression of inflammation and the presence of connective tissue with collagen fibers, fibroblasts and blood vessels was observed. After 45 days, it was observed the presence of well-organized connective tissue, with collagen fibers and fibroblasts, and few inflammatory cells. No statistical difference was observed between the control and experimental paste at 15 and 45 days. The experimental alendronate paste was considered biocompatible with subcutaneous tissue of rat. [source] Prevalence of oral trauma in children with bilateral cleftsDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 1 2005Juliana Yassue Barbosa Da Silva Abstract,,, The main object of this study is to analyze the prevalence of oral trauma in subjects with complete bilateral clefts, with anterior projection of the premaxilla. A total of 106 children aging 6 months to 9 years were analyzed. The caretakers answered a specific questionnaire, in order to report the presence or absence of trauma to the soft and/or hard tissues of the child's mouth. Whenever there was a history of trauma, the patients were submitted to clinical examination. The prevalence of oral trauma was 53%, being 91% of soft tissue lesions, 8.9% of avulsion, 7% of luxation and 1.8% of intrusion. For the males, the prevalence was 56% and for the females it was 47%, with no statistical significance. Regarding the following aspects:period of time spent with the parents and at school, and presence or absence of siblings, no statistical difference could be found. Among the traumatized individuals, 80% aged less than 3 years by the moment of the trauma, 89% suffered the trauma at home, 75% presented lesions in the soft tissue at the premaxilla, 16% in the maxillary incisors, and 8.9% presented lesions in both structures. It was noticed that 45% of the permanent incisors that succeeded the traumatized deciduous teeth presented alterations, being 48% of structure and 52% of structure and position. The prevalence of trauma in this sample was superior to that observed in the literature, without any positive associations between the evaluated aspects. These results suggest that the projection of the premaxilla brings about a higher risk of oral trauma around this area. [source] Sealing evaluation of the cervical base in intracoronal bleachingDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 6 2003Luciane Dias De Oliveira Abstract,,, Discoloration of non-vital teeth is an esthetic deficiency frequently requiring bleaching treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate in vitro the cervical base efficacy in order to prevent or to minimize the leakage along the root canal filling and into the dentinal tubules. Thirty-eight extracted single-root human teeth were used, which were biomechanically prepared, filled, and divided into three experimental groups: G1, a cervical base was applied (3 mm of thickness) below the cemento-enamel junction, with resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (Vitremer); G2, the base was done with glass-ionomer cement (Vidrion R); and G3 (Control), did not receive any material as base. A mixture of sodium perborate and hydrogen peroxide 30% was placed inside the pulp chamber for 3 days, and the access opening was sealed with Cimpat. This procedure was repeated thrice. Soon after this, a paste of calcium hydroxide was inserted into the pulp chamber for 14 days. All teeth were covered with two layers of sticky wax, except the access opening, and immersed in blue India Ink for 5 days. The results did not show statistically significant differences between the three groups concerning the leakage inside the dentinal tubules. Regarding the apical direction, a statistical difference (anovaP < 0.05) was observed among the experimental group G1 and control group G3. No statistically significant difference was observed between G2 and G3 groups. Therefore, the placement of a cervical base before internal bleaching procedures is still recommended. [source] Sterile Versus Nonsterile Gloves During Mohs Micrographic Surgery: Infection Rate is not AffectedDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2 2006BRANDON M. RHINEHART MC BACKGROUND: Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is an outpatient procedure, which has become the treatment of choice for certain cutaneous malignancies. Although the major steps in this procedure are relatively standardized, one difference involves the use of sterile or nonsterile, clean gloves during the tumor removal phase. OBJECTIVE: This retrospective, chart review study was performed to evaluate whether infection rates are affected by the use of sterile versus nonsterile gloves in the tumor extirpation phase of MMS. METHODS: This study evaluated the surgical records of 1,810 consecutive Mohs patients, of which 1,239 Mohs patients (1,400 Mohs procedures) met inclusion criteria. Age, sex, tumor diagnosis, anatomic location, number of Mohs stages, area of defect, closure type, cartilage exposure, and sterile versus nonsterile glove use were recorded and evaluated. RESULTS: Twenty-five infections were identified. Statistically significant infection rates were discovered for patients with cartilage fenestration with secondary healing and malignant melanoma diagnosis only. There was no statistical difference in infection rates with all other measured variables to include the use of sterile or clean, nonsterile gloves. CONCLUSION: Our study lends support that clean, nonsterile gloves are safe and effective for use in the tumor extirpation phase of MMS, at a significant cost savings. [source] Clinical, Histologic, and Ultrastructural Changes after Nonablative Treatment with a 595-nm Flashlamp-Pumped Pulsed Dye Laser: Comparison of Varying SettingsDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 7 2004David J. Goldberg MD Background. The flashlamp-pulsed dye laser has been used for nonablative dermal remodeling. Objective. We conducted a study analyzing the clinical, histologic, and electron microscopic findings after treatment with different flashlamp-pulsed dye laser settingss in the same subject. Results. Most subjects showed mild to moderate improvement after flashlamp-pulsed dye laser laser treatment. There was no statistical difference in the clinical, histologic, or electron microscopic findings with a variety of laser treatment settings. Conclusion. Nonablative dermal remodeling can be accomplished with not only a variety of different technologies, but also with the same laser using markedly different settings. [source] A Liquid Adhesive Bandage for the Treatment of Minor Cuts and AbrasionsDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 3 2002William H. Eaglstein MD Background. Octyl-2-cyanoacrylate is U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved for the closure of incisions and lacerations. In animal studies, a more flexible formulation of octyl-2-cyanoacrylate suitable for cuts and abrasions produced faster healing of partial thickness wounds than traditional bandages. Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of a more flexible octyl-2-cyanoacrylate liquid adhesive bandage for the treatment of minor cuts and abrasions. Methods. One hundred sixty-two volunteers with recent minor cuts or abrasions were recruited and randomized to treatment with either liquid adhesive bandage (LAB) or a control device (Band-Aid brand adhesive bandage, sheer, 2.5 cm). The primary efficacy criterion was complete healing at day 12. Secondary efficacy criteria were the ability of patients to properly apply LAB, and the ability of LAB to stop bleeding, to reduce pain, and to remain on the wound. Results. At day 12 there was no statistical difference between the number of completely healed wounds in the LAB and the bandage-treated patients (P = .493). The ability of patients, as rated by investigators, to effectively apply the LAB device and the bandage was not significantly different (P = .165). Only the LAB provided significant hemostasis (P = .0001) and pain relief (P = .002). conclusion. In this randomized, controlled trial, the LAB was as effective as the control at promoting healing as measured by complete healing at day 12. The LAB was easy to use and gave rapid control of bleeding and pain, forming a film that stayed on wounds well. [source] Intravenous lidocaine for status epilepticus during childhoodDEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE & CHILD NEUROLOGY, Issue 3 2006Shin-ichiro Hamano MD; The clinical efficacy of lidocaine for convulsive status epilepticus in 53 convulsive episodes was examined in 37 children (17 males, 20 females). Mean age of patients receiving lidocaine was 3 years 7 months (SD 3y 5mo). Lidocaine administration achieved control of status epilepticus in 19 of 53 convulsive episodes (35.8%). Seizures ceased within 5 minutes of lidocaine administration in all 19 patients who were responsive to the drug. Regarding aetiology of status epilepticus and types of seizures, there was no statistical difference in effectiveness. Mild decrease of oxygen saturation, monitored by pulse oximetry, was observed in one patient, which improved by oxygenation using a mask. Lidocaine is a useful anticonvulsive agent; however, the response rate to lidocaine appears to be quite low, as less than half of the seizures were effectively controlled by lidocaine. Favourable properties of the drug include prompt responses, less alteration of consciousness, and fewer adverse effects, including less respiratory depression. [source] Neuropsychological effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in cerebral palsyDEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE & CHILD NEUROLOGY, Issue 7 2002Paule Hardy We conducted a double-blind placebo study to investigate the claim that hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBO2) improves the cognitive status of children with cerebral palsy (CP). Of 111 children diagnosed with CP (aged 4 to 12 years), only 75 were suitable for neuropsychological testing, assessing attention, working memory, processing speed, and psychosocial functioning. The children received 40 sessions of HBO2 or sham treatment over a 2-month period. Children in the active treatment group were exposed for 1 hour to 100% oxygen at 1.75 atmospheres absolute (ATA), whereas those in the sham group received only air at 1.3 ATA. Children in both groups showed better self-control and significant improvements in auditory attention and visual working memory compared with the baseline. However, no statistical difference was found between the two treatments. Furthermore, the sham group improved significantly on eight dimensions of the Conners'Parent Rating Scale, whereas the active treatment group improved only on one dimension. Most of these positive changes persisted for 3 months. No improvements were observed in either group for verbal span, visual attention, or processing speed. [source] Rapid review of liquid-based smears as a quality control measureDIAGNOSTIC CYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 3 2004Sheryl Henderson M.Med.Sc.(Cytol.) Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a standardized method of rapid review (RR) of monolayer preparations for the identification of abnormalities, the presence of an endocervical component and infectious agents. A total of 200 ThinPrep (Cytyc, Boxborough, MA) slides representing the spectrum of abnormalities commonly encountered in cervical/vaginal cytologic specimens was retrieved from archive. The study set comprised 129 cases within normal limits (WNL); 36 low-grade epithelial abnormalities (LGEA); 28 high-grade epithelial abnormalities (HGEA), including 2 endocervical adenocarcinomas in situ (AIS) and 7 carcinomas. Eighteen false negative (FN) cases were also included for study. Originally missed on initial review, these cases were found to be abnormal on quality control review (17 LGEA; 1 AIS). Commonly encountered infectious agents were represented and included Candida albicans, Trichomonas vaginalis, herpes simplex virus, and Actinomyces. The slides were reviewed using a standardized method of RR (turret technique, for 60 sec) by three experienced screeners masked to the original reference diagnosis. Median sensitivity for LGEA was 70% (range, 67,72%); HGEA, 69% (range, 54,80%); and FN, 65% (range, 56,78%). Specificity remained high, median specificity for LGEA was 95%; HGEA, 97%; and FN, 100%. There was no significant overcalling of any diagnostic category. The chi-square test at P < 0.05 showed no significant difference between RR and full manual rescreen of the ThinPrep smears in this study. While no statistical difference was proven, the sensitivity measurements for all categories of abnormality were moderate due to the high proportion of atypical cases included into the study set. Abnormalities on the monolayer preparations frequently displayed fewer, smaller groups of disaggregated cells with rounded cytoplasmic outlines that were difficult to discern on RR. Interobserver variation was noted. Monolayers with a paucity of diagnostic cells and those displaying subtle nuclear atypia were often overlooked. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2004;31:141,146. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Tricuspid Regurgitation after Orthotopic Heart TransplantationECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Issue 1 2010Nishant Kalra M.D. Background: Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a relatively common abnormality in normal adults as well as after orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT). A few studies have shown reduction in the incidence of TR after OHT by total bicaval surgical anastomosis technique. Other studies reported no significant difference in the rates of TR between the standard and bicaval techniques. Objective: Evaluate and compare the degree of TR after OHT by standard and bicaval anastomosis techniques. Method: Echocardiograms from the first 56 consecutive patients that had the total bicaval surgical technique performed were retrospectively reviewed and compared with the last 57 consecutive patients who had the standard biatrial technique performed. Patients with adequate two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiograms were included. Results: No statistical difference was observed for each grade of TR at both early and late time points. No significant difference was observed between the TR velocities of both biatrial and bicaval anastomosis patients at different periods. Conclusion: There appears to be no difference between the TR severity and TR velocity at early and late time points regardless of anastomotic technique. (Echocardiography 2010;27:1-4) [source] Age- and Sex-Related Differences in the Tissue Doppler Imaging Parameters of Left Ventricular Diastolic DysfunctionECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Issue 6 2007Hyeun S. Park M.D. Background: The effect of age and gender on tissue Doppler imaging measurements comparing the septal and mitral annulus needs to be investigated. Methods: We investigated in 276 outpatients in a university cardiology practice the relationship of age and gender to left atrial (LA) size, LA volume, mitral pulse-wave Doppler E/A ratio, E/Ea ratios by tissue Doppler image of mitral annular velocity (TDI), and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) by TDI. Results: Mitral E/A inflow was statistically decreased with age. E/Ea ratios of the lateral and mean of both lateral and septal annulus showed a statistical increase with age, while the E/Ea ratio of the septal annulus did not correlate with age. When comparing men and women of all ages, the mean LA volume for men was 59.2 cm3± 24.36 cm3 versus 48.54 cm3± 16.14 cm3 (P-value < 0.0001) and the mean LA size was 4.0 + 0.51 cm for men and 3.65 + 0.47 for women (P-value < 0.0001). There was no statistical difference between men and women when looking at mitral E/A inflow ratio, deceleration time, E/Ea ratio of the septal annulus, E/Ea ratio of the lateral annulus, E/Ea ratio of the mean of both septal and lateral annulus, and grades of LVDD. Conclusion: In patients 70 years of age or older, the mean diastolic grade was mild-to-moderate LVDD when using lateral or mean of septal and lateral annular measurements. When only the septal annular measurements were used to determine diastolic grade, all four age groups showed a mean of mildly to moderately impaired LVDD and showed no correlation with age. There were no differences in tissue Doppler imaging measurements between men and women. [source] Can intra-specific genetic variation in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Glomus etunicatum) affect a mesophyll-feeding herbivore (Tupiocoris notatus Distant)?ECOLOGICAL ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 4 2007STUART C. WOOLEY Abstract 1.,Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) infection can have negative, positive or neutral effects on insect herbivore populations, but patterns are difficult to predict. 2.,Intra-specific genetic variation in nutrient uptake ability between fungal isolates may also have indirect effects on insect herbivores due to changes in plant quality. In preliminary studies mirid (Tupiocoris notatus) populations were significantly reduced on tobacco (Nicotiana rustica) colonised by AMF but it was unknown if same-species fungal isolates differed in their effect. 3.,An experiment was performed as a first test of the effect of intra-specific genetic variation in the mycorrhizal fungus Glomus etunicatum on mirid nymphal population structure, dynamics, and growth rate. 4.,Mirid nymphal populations were lower on mycorrhizal fungal-infected plants. Population size, however, did not differ between the mycorrhizal isolates. While no statistical difference in population between isolates was found, one isolate consistently had 1.7,2.4 times lower mirid populations compared with the controls, indicating that the magnitude of effect is different between mycorrhizal isolates. 5.,The significantly negative effect of AMF on mirid populations likely resulted from AMF-induced changes in plant quality (e.g. increased defence). This study lends further support to recent demonstrations that below-ground symbionts significantly influence above-ground processes. In addition, mycorrhizal fungi can affect insect population structure, which may have consequences for future herbivory. [source] Oral bioavailability and toxicokinetics of 3,3,,4,4,,5-pentachlorobiphenyl in northern leopard frogs, Rana pipiensENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 7 2000Yue-wern Huang Abstract This study is the first report on oral bioavailability, whole-body elimination, and distribution of a specific polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congener on an amphibian species, northern leopard frogs. Each frog was orally dosed once with either 0.35 or 5.0 mg/kg PCB 126 (based on frog wet wt), including tracer 14C-PCB 126 (3,,4,,5,-phenyl-ring- 14C) by force feeding it a cricket injected with the PCB. We found no statistical difference (t = 0.917, df = 5, p = 0.401) in the average 48-h oral bioavailabilities of 0.35- and 5.0-mg/kg dosage groups, which were 84.6 ± 5.8% (mean ± SE, n = 4) and 90.9 ± 1.5% (n = 3), respectively. Statistical analysis indicated that time was the only independent variable affecting the retention of whole-body 14C content. Kinetics were apparently first order because elimination rate was independent of dose. Assuming a single pool and one elimination rate, the t1/2 value for whole-body elimination of PCB-derived 14C was 763 d. Liver, fat bodies (corpora adiposa), carcass (head, bone, cartilage materials, and residues of other tissues), skin, and muscle were the major organs for PCB 126 retention in both dosage groups. The concentrations of 14C residue in fat bodies were relatively constant throughout the experiment. However, total residues in fat bodies declined throughout the experiment in both dosage groups in correlation with declining masses of fat bodies. Gonad, kidney, stomach, intestine, and a tissue pool including esophagus, lung, spleen, heart, and cloacal materials each accumulated <1% of the initial total 14C residue. The egg follicles in 19 females contained 1 to 23% of the initial total 14C residue, with an average of 10.0 ± 9.2% (mean ± SE, n = 19). [source] Can First Responders Be Sent to Selected 9-1-1 Emergency Medical Services Calls without an Ambulance?ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE, Issue 4 2003Craig B. Key MD Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of initially dispatching only first responders (FRs) to selected low-risk 9-1-1 requests for emergency medical services. First responders are rapidly-responding fire crews on apparatus without transport capabilities, with firefighters trained to at least a FR level and in most cases to the basic emergency medical technician (EMT) level. Low-risk 9-1-1 requests include automatic medical alerts (ALERTs), motor vehicle incidents (MVIs) for which the caller was unable to answer any medical dispatch questions designed to prioritize the call, and 9-1-1 call disconnects (D/Cs). Methods: A before-and-after study of patient dispositions was conducted using historical controls for comparison. During the historical control phase of six months, one year prior to the study phase, basic life support ambulances (staffed with two basic EMTs) were dispatched to selected low-risk 9-1-1 incidents. During the six-month study phase, a fire FR crew equipped with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) was sent initially without an ambulance to these incidents. Results: For ALERTs (n= 290 in historical group vs. 330 in study group), there was no statistical difference in the transport rate (7% vs 10%), but there was a statistically significant increase in the follow-up use of advanced life support (ALS) (1% vs 4%, p = 0.009). No patient in the ALERTs historical group required airway management, while one patient in the study group received endotracheal intubation. No patient required defibrillation in either group. Analysis of the MVIs showed a significant decrease (p < 0.0001) in the patient transport rate from 39% of controls to 33% of study patients, but no change in the follow-up use of ALS interventions (2% for each group). For both the ALERTs and MVIs, the FR's mean response time was faster than ambulances (p < 0.0001). Among the 9-1-1 D/Cs with FRs only (n= 1,028), 15% were transported and 43 (4%) received subsequent ALS care. Four of these patients (0.4%) received intubation and two (0.2%) required defibrillation. However, no patient was judged to have had adverse outcomes as a result of the dispatch protocol change. Conclusions: Fire apparatus crews trained in the use of AEDs can safely be used to initially respond alone (without ambulances) to selected, low-risk 9-1-1 calls. This tactic improves response intervals while reducing ambulance responses to these incidents. [source] Impact of Critical Bed Status on Emergency Department Patient Flow and OvercrowdingACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE, Issue 4 2003Stephen Liu MD Objective: To compare measurements of emergency department (ED) patient flow during periods of acute ED overcrowding and times of normal patient volume (NPV). Methods: Retrospective ED chart review comparing ED flow for patients treated in a tertiary care teaching hospital during periods of ED overcrowding, defined as critical bed status (CBS), and NPV. All periods of CBS during July 2001 were identified. CBS time intervals were matched with NPV times by month, day of the week, time of day, and number of care providers. All patients registered during these matched time intervals were reviewed. Times were collected for each of the following activities: check-in, bed placement, physician assessment, first intervention, and disposition. Corresponding intervals were calculated in minutes. Triage category was used as a marker of illness severity (1 = most severe, 5 = least severe). Descriptive statistics were performed. Results: One hundred eighteen patient charts were reviewed: 61 CBS and 57 NPV. There was no statistical difference in illness severity between the two groups. In the cumulative analysis, patients waited significantly longer for an ED bed (30.4 min, p = 0.01) but did not experience significant delays in other intervals. Triage category analysis revealed no significant difference in triage 2 patients. Intermediate-severity patients (triage 3) waited longer in every interval and significantly longer for physician assessment (30.8 min longer, p < 0.05). Low-severity patients (triage 4) waited longer for an ED bed (40 min, p = 0.02) but did not experience other significant delays. Conclusions: During times of acute overcrowding, the most significant delay occurs awaiting placement in the ED bed. [source] Clinical features and outcomes of severe ulcerative keratitis with medical and surgical management in 41 horses (2000,2006)EQUINE VETERINARY EDUCATION, Issue 6 2009M. E. Utter Summary The clinical features and outcomes of equine ulcerative keratitis with and without conjunctival graft surgery were assessed using a retrospective study. Medical records of horses hospitalised from July 2000-January 2006 for ulcerative keratitis were included if a diagnosis of melting ulcer, descemetocele or iris prolapse was made, or if surgery was recommended due to severity of corneal disease, and aggressive medical therapy using a subpalpebral catheter was instituted. Treatment and outcome variables were evaluated with and without conjunctival graft surgery. Forty-one horses, 21 that had surgery and 20 for whom surgery was recommended but not performed, were included. Horses were hospitalised for an average of 24 days, with 37/41 melting ulcers, 17/41 descemetoceles and 3/41 iris prolapses, with no statistical difference in frequencies between groups. Bacterial or fungal organisms were cultured from 22/39 cases, with 10 Aspergillus spp. and 8 Pseudomonas spp. Infectious organisms were seen on corneal cytology in 23/30 cases. Surgical cases were hospitalised for an average of 4.9 days prior to surgery. Abdominal discomfort was observed in 8/41 hospitalised horses, with 5/8 operated horses developing caecal impactions. Thirty-five horses retained an intact globe, including 18/20 treated medically and 17/21 that had surgery. Hospitalisation cost was 24% more for cases that had surgery than for medical cases. It was concluded that there was no statistical difference in length or cost of hospitalisation between surgical and nonsurgical groups. Outcomes from both groups were similar, with a high frequency of globe retention. [source] Learner-control vs. program-control instructional multimedia: a comparison of two interactions when teaching principles of orthodontic appliancesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION, Issue 4 2005M. Aly Abstract Background:, Many studies have compared computer assisted learning (CAL) to more traditional learning formats and have shown CAL to be as effective as or superior to the alternative resources. However, there are only scarce attempts to show which style of CAL leads to the best learning outcomes in orthodontics. Aim:, To compare the effectiveness of a learner-control (group A) vs. program-control (group B) multimedia learning environment courseware packages regarding knowledge, understanding and transfer of content when applied to teaching principles of orthodontic appliances to undergraduate students. Methods:, Pre- and post-test assessments of undergraduate dental students (n = 30) who either studied a learner-control multimedia learning environment courseware package (n = 15) or a program-control version (n = 15) on equivalent material of the orthodontic appliances curriculum. Both groups were evaluated by means of multiple-choice questions covering knowledge, understanding and application. A one-way ANOVA was carried out in order to check for statistical difference between the two groups. The P -value was set at 0.05. Results:, There was no difference in prior knowledge between both groups at baseline. Although, both groups significantly improved their scores after having studied the course, no significant difference was found between both groups in relation to answers to questions about knowledge, understanding and application. Conclusions:, In this study, the learner-control instructional multimedia program was found to be as effective as the program-control version when teaching principles of the orthodontic appliances to undergraduate students. The focus needs to be on improving the value of CAL. Comparative evaluations of how different CAL approaches compare with or complement one another are certainly needed. [source] Pramipexole and pergolide in the treatment of depression in Parkinson's disease: a national multicentre prospective randomized studyEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 4 2003I. Rektorová An 8-month multicentre prospective randomized study aimed at comparing the effects of dopamine receptor agonists pramipexole (PPX; Mirapexin®) and pergolide (PRG; Permax®) as add-on to L-dopa therapy on depression [Montgomery and Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS)] in 41 non-demented patients (25 men, 16 women) suffering from both mild or moderate depression and advanced Parkinson's disease (PD). The assessment was performed by a blinded independent observer. Motor symptoms (UPDRS III), motor complications (UPDRS IV), activities of daily living (UPDRS II and VI) and depressive symptoms as measured by Self , Rating Depression Scale by Zung were evaluated in an open-label design. The average value of Zung scores decreased significantly in both groups with no statistical difference between both groups. A significant decrease in the average value of MADRS scores was present only in the PPX group. The average UPDRS scores decreased significantly with no statistical difference between both groups at the comparable average total daily dose of both preparations. In both cases, the total daily dose of L-dopa decreased significantly but the decrease was statistically more pronounced in the PRG group. Our results demonstrate the antidepressant effect of PPX in patients with PD while we can't make any conclusions with regard to antidepressant effect of PRG. [source] Micro-shear bond strengths and etching efficacy of a two-step self-etching adhesive system to fluorosed and non-fluorosed enamelEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 2 2009Kanako Shida The purpose of this study was to evaluate the micro-shear bond strengths and the etching efficacy of a two-step self-etching adhesive system to fluorosed and non-fluorosed enamel. The extracted teeth, obtained from Australian and Japanese patients, were classified according to the severity of fluorosis, using the Thylstrup & Fejerskov index (TFI). Australian teeth were classified as mildly fluorosed (TFI = 1,3), whereas Japanese teeth were classified as non-fluorosed (TFI = 0). Resin composite was bonded to 20 enamel samples using Clearfil SE bond. The bonded samples were stressed at a crosshead speed of 1 mm min,1 to determine the micro-shear bond strength. To examine the etching efficacy of primer on fluorosed and non-fluorosed enamel, the enamel-surface pH values were directly measured using a micro pH sensor. The non-fluorosed enamel showed significantly higher bond strengths compared with the fluorosed enamel. There was a statistical difference between fluorosed and non-fluorosed enamel regarding the surface pH change before and after application of the Clearfil SE bond primer. The results from this study suggest that water fluoridation has an effect on the acid resistance of enamel surfaces when treated with a two-step self-etching adhesive system and that this effect leads to reduced bond strengths. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||