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Vitality
Kinds of Vitality Selected AbstractsChanges in quality of life and sexual health are associated with low-dose peginterferon therapy and disease progression in patients with chronic hepatitis CALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 7 2010K. K. SNOW Aliment Pharmacol Ther,31, 719,734 Summary Background, Primary analysis of the Hepatitis C Antiviral Long-Term Treatment against Cirrhosis (HALT-C) Trial showed long-term peginterferon therapy did not reduce complications in patients with chronic hepatitis C and advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis. Aim, To assess the effects of long-term peginterferon therapy and disease progression on health-related quality of life (HRQOL), symptoms and sexual health in HALT-C patients. Methods, A total of 517 HALT-C patients received peginterferon alfa-2a (90 ,g/week); 532 received no additional treatment for 3.5 years. Patients were followed up for outcomes of death, hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatic decompensation. Sexual health, SF-36 scores and symptoms were serially assessed by repeated-measures analyses of covariance. Results, Patients with cirrhosis (n = 427) reported lower general well-being and more fatigue (P < 0.001) than patients with fibrosis (n = 622). Physical scores declined significantly over time, independent of treatment, and patients with cirrhosis reported lower scores. Vitality scores were lower in those with cirrhosis, and treated patients experienced a greater decline over time than untreated patients; HRQOL rebounded after treatment ended. Patients with a clinical outcome had significantly greater declines in all SF-36 and symptom scores. Among men, Sexual Health scores were significantly worse in treated patients and in those with a clinical outcome. Conclusion, Clinical progression of chronic hepatitis C and maintenance peginterferon therapy led to worsening of symptoms, HRQOL and, in men, sexual health in a large patient cohort followed up over 4 years (NCT00006164). [source] John Thelwall and the Politics of SympathyLITERATURE COMPASS (ELECTRONIC), Issue 9 2010Mary Fairclough John Thelwall's diverse achievements in the fields of literature, science and politics have been read as the reason for his omission from the Romantic literary canon. But Thelwall's scientific research arms him with a unique understanding of the connections between these disciplines, which upset the very notion of canonicity. Thelwall's model of sympathy, developed in his Essay Towards a Definition of Animal Vitality (1791) offers a physiological understanding of the term which he applies to radical effect in his literary and political works. For Thelwall, sympathy is the physical force through which one organ of the body is inextricably connected with the rest. This physical model radicalises the sentimental tropes Thelwall employs in The Peripatetic (1793), where benevolence is figured as an instinctive impulse. In Thelwall's political lectures, sympathy is an index of solidarity, but its rational, material basis offers a riposte to charges that Thelwall seeks to exploit the unruly energies of his audience. Thelwall figures sympathy instead as the medium for his political ideal, the diffusion of information and ideas. [source] Insurance and quality of life in men with prostate cancer: data from the Cancer of the Prostate Strategic Urological Research EndeavorBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 6 2008Natalia Sadetsky OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of medical insurance coverage on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes in men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer, as insurance status has been shown to be related to clinical presentation, and types of treatments received for localized prostate cancer, but the relationship of insurance and QoL has not been explored sufficiently. PATIENTS AND METHODS Data from the Cancer of the Prostate Strategic Urological Research Endeavor (CaPSURE), a national longitudinal database registry of men with prostate cancer, were used for this study. Men who were newly diagnosed at entry to CaPSURE and completed one questionnaire before treatment, and one or more afterwards, were included. Insurance groups specific to age distribution of the study population were assessed, i.e. Medicare, preferred provider organizations (PPOs), health maintenance organizations (HMOs), fee for service (FFS), and the Veterans Administration (VA) for the younger group, and Medicare only, Medicare plus supplement (+S), and HMO/PPO for the older group. Associations between patients' clinical and sociodemographic characteristics and insurance status were evaluated by chi-square and analysis of variance. Relationships between insurance status and HRQoL outcomes over time were evaluated by multivariate mixed model. RESULTS Of 2258 men who met the study criteria, 1259 were younger and 999 were older than 65 years. More than half of the younger patients belonged to an HMO or PPO (42.2% and 32.5%, respectively), with the remainder distributed between Medicare, FFS and VA. In the older group most men belonged to Medicare only and the Medicare +S groups (22.4% and 58.8%, respectively). There was greater variation in clinical risk categories at presentation by insurance groups in the younger group. In the multivariate analysis, insurance status was significantly associated with changes in most HRQoL outcomes over time in the younger group, while in the older patients the effect of insurance diminished. Men in the VA and Medicare systems had lower scores at baseline and a steeper decline in Physical Function, Role Physical, Role Emotional, Social Function, Bodily Pain, Vitality, and General Health domains over time, controlling for type of initial treatment received, timing of HRQoL assessment, number of comorbidities, clinical risk at presentation, and income. CONCLUSION Insurance was independently related to changes in a wide range of HRQoL outcomes in men aged <65 years treated for prostate cancer. With the latest advances in early diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer, clinicians and researchers should be aware of the specific groups of patients who are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of treatment and subsequent decline in functioning. The present findings could provide important tools for understanding the process of recovery after treatment for prostate cancer, and identifying needs for specific services. [source] Influence of economic and demographic factors on quality of life in renal transplant recipientsCLINICAL TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 2 2007Marie A. Chisholm Abstract:, Background:, The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of annual income, Medicare status, and demographic variables on the health-related quality of life (HQoL) of renal transplant recipients. Methods:, A cross-sectional survey was mailed to 146 Georgia renal transplant recipients who had functional grafts. Data were collected using the SF-12 Health Survey (version 2), a demographics survey, and 2003 tax documents. One-way ANOVAs and Pearson's R correlations were used to examine relationships between annual income, Medicare status, demographic variables and SF-12 scores. Significant variables were included in stepwise multiple regression analyses. Results:, Data from 130 participants (89% response rate) were collected. Recipients with no Medicare coverage had significantly higher scores on the Physical Functioning and Role Physical SF-12 scales (p = 0.005) compared to recipients with Medicare. Annual income was positively correlated with General Health (p < 0.05). Age and race were significant predictors of Vitality (p = 0.004) and Physical Component Summary (p < 0.001) scores. Age, race, and Medicare status were significant predictors of Physical Functioning and Role Physical scores (p < 0.001). Age, annual income, race, and years post-transplant were significant predictors of General Health score (p < 0.001). Age was the sole predictor of Bodily Pain score (p = 0.002), and marital status was the sole predictor of Social Functioning score (p = 0.005). Conclusions:, Interventions designed to offset financial barriers may be needed to bolster renal transplant recipients' HQoL. [source] Evaluation of a group cognitive behavioural intervention for women suffering from menopausal symptoms following breast cancer treatmentPSYCHO-ONCOLOGY, Issue 5 2009Myra S. Hunter Abstract Objective: To evaluate a group cognitive behavioural intervention to alleviate menopausal symptoms in women who have had treatment for breast cancer. Methods: A single group design was used with pre- and post-treatment assessment and a 3-months follow-up. Seventeen women who had completed active breast cancer treatment were treated. Following a 2-week daily diary assessment they were offered 6 (90,min) weekly sessions of Group cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). The CBT included information and discussion, relaxation and paced breathing and CBT to reduce stress and manage hot flushes (HF), night sweats (NS) and sleep. The primary outcome measure was Hot Flush Frequency and Hot Flush Problem Rating; secondary outcomes included the Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ) and health-related quality of life (SF 36). Beliefs about HF were monitored in order to examine the effects of cognitive therapy. Results: HF and NS reduced significantly following treatment (38% reduction in frequency and 49% in problem rating) and improvements were maintained at 3 months follow-up (49% reduction in frequency and 59% in problem rating). Depressed mood, anxiety and sleep (WHQ) significantly improved, as did aspects of quality of life (SF 36) (emotional role limitation, energy/vitality and mental health). There was a significant reduction in negative beliefs about HF, NS and sleep following CBT. Conclusions: These results suggest that CBT delivered in groups might offer a viable option for women with troublesome menopausal symptoms following breast cancer treatment, but further controlled trials are needed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Mothers' perceptions of children's quality of life following early diagnosis and treatment for retinoblastoma (Rb)CHILD: CARE, HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT, Issue 2 2005Linda Sheppard Abstract We describe the Quality of Life (QoL) and IQ of survivors of retinoblastoma (Rb), both in relation to the normal population and between subgroups of Rb patients differing in relative risk (i.e. unilateral vs. bilateral disease). The sample included 54 children (28 males, age-range 8,16 years) and their mothers. Mothers completed standardized questionnaires to report their own QoL and that of their child. Children completed a brief IQ test. Compared with population norms, mothers reported lower levels of QoL for their child on total QoL and for sub-scales measuring Physical and Psychosocial function. Mothers reported their own QoL to be comparable or higher than norms on all but one of eight sub-scales (energy/vitality). Compared with population norms, children with no visual impairment scored in the normal range for tasks measuring Verbal IQ, but below the mean on tasks measuring Performance IQ. According to their mothers, survivors of Rb have excellent school attendance and take part in most school activities. However, based on standardized questionnaire, they show compromised QoL. We consider that excellent survival rates in Rb are matched with good QoL according to mothers' report. [source] Quality of life issues in recurrent respiratory papillomatosisCLINICAL OTOLARYNGOLOGY, Issue 2 2000D.S. Hill Twenty-six adult patients attending the Royal National Throat, Nose, and Ear Hospital with Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis completed two postal questionnaires. One was the generic Short Form-36 (SF-36) quality of life instrument. Severely affected patients had lower scores in all dimensions of this instrument, with large differences from normal controls in dimensions of pain, physical limitation, and energy/vitality. The second questionnaire was newly devised, and designed to ask about a wide variety of larynx-specific symptoms. Answers by patients were compared with those of normal controls, and symptoms selected as significantly more likely to be reported by patients were studied further. Correlation was seen with clinical parameters, and questions likely to be responsive to clinical change in disease burden were identified. [source] An epidemiological survey of overactive bladder symptoms in JapanBJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 9 2005Yukio Homma OBJECTIVE To report an epidemiological survey of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) to determine the prevalence of overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms (defined as a symptom complex of daily urinary frequency of eight or more times and urgency once or more per week) in Japan. SUBJECTS AND METHODS A self-administered questionnaire was mailed to 10 096 Japanese men and women aged ,,40 years selected by a two-stage randomized process. Survey questions, developed by members of the Japan Neurogenic Bladder Society Committee, covered four areas: demographic characteristics, LUTS, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and hospital attendance. RESULTS The responses from 4570 respondents (mean age 61 years) were analysed. The estimated prevalence of OAB was 12.4% (men 14%, women 11%). Prevalence rates for OAB with and without urgency incontinence (one or more episode/week) were 6.4% and 6.0%, respectively. Prevalence rates increased with age; 5% of respondents aged 40,49 and 37% of those aged ,,80 years had OAB. HRQoL was compromised in 53% of respondents with OAB symptoms, specifically emotions (42%), sleep/vitality (37%), physical limitation (34%), role limitation (29%), and social limitation (22%). Among those whose HRQoL was affected, 23% (men 36%, women 8%) had visited a medical institution because of their urinary problems. CONCLUSION The results from this survey indicate that the prevalence of OAB was high and increased with age, but the rate of hospital attendance was low. Public awareness of OAB should be increased so that there can be optimum management of this condition. [source] Tracking Fragmentation of Natural Communities and Changes in Land Cover: Applications of Landsat Data for Conservation in an Urban Landscape (Chicago Wilderness)CONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 4 2001Yeqiao Wang Within the metropolis survive some of the world's best remaining examples of eastern tallgrass prairie, oak savanna, open oak woodland, and prairie wetland. Chicago Wilderness is more than 81,000 ha of protected areas in the urban and suburban matrix. It also is the name of the coalition of more than 110 organizations committed to the survival of these natural lands. The long-term health of these imperiled communities depends on proper management of the more extensive, restorable lands that surround and connect the patches of high-quality habitat. Information critical to the success of conservation efforts in the region includes (1) a current vegetation map of Chicago Wilderness in sufficient detail to allow quantitative goal setting for the region's biodiversity recovery plan; (2) quantified fragmentation status of the natural communities; and (3) patterns of land-cover change and their effects on the vitality of communities under threat. We used multispectral data from the Landsat thematic mapper (October 1997) and associated ground truthing to produce a current vegetation map. With multitemporal remote-sensing data (acquired in 1972, 1985, and 1997), we derived land-cover maps of the region at roughly equivalent intervals over the past 25 years. Analyses with geographic information system models reveal rapid acceleration of urban and suburban sprawl over the past 12 years. Satellite images provide striking visual comparisons of land use and health. They also provide banks of geographically referenced data that make quantitative tracking of trends possible. The data on habitat degradation and fragmentation are the biological foundation of quantitative goals for regional restoration. Resumen: En Chicago hay una concentración de comunidades naturales globalmente significativas sorprendentemente alta. En la metrópolis sobreviven algunos de los mejores ejemplos mundiales remanentes de praderas de pastos orientales, sabanas de roble, bosques abiertos de roble y humedales de pradera. Chicago Wilderness es más de 81,000 ha de áreas protegidas en la matriz urbana y suburbana. También es el nombre de una coalición de más de 110 organizaciones dedicadas a la supervivencia de esas tierras naturales. La salud a largo plazo de estas comunidades amenazadas depende del manejo adecuado de las tierras, más extensas y restaurables, que rodean y conectan a los fragmentos de hábitat de alta calidad. La información crítica para el éxito de los esfuerzos de conservación en la región incluye: (1) un mapa actualizado de la vegetación de Chicago Wilderness con suficiente detalle para que la definición de metas cuantitativas para el plan de recuperación de la región sea posible; (2) cuantificación de la fragmentación de las comunidades naturales y (3) patrones de cambio de cobertura de suelo y sus efectos sobre la vitalidad de las comunidades amenazadas. Utilizamos datos multiespectrales del mapeador temático Landsat (octubre 1997) y verificaciones de campo asociadas para producir el mapa actualizado de vegetación. Con datos de percepción remota multitemporales (obtenidos en 1972, 1985 y 1997), derivamos los mapas de cobertura de suelo en la región en intervalos equivalentes en los últimos 25 años. El análisis de los modelos SIG revela una rápida aceleramiento del crecimiento urbano y suburbano en los últimos 12 años. Las imágenes de satélite proporcionan comparaciones visuales notables del uso y condición del suelo. También proporcionan bancos de datos referenciados geográficamente que hacen posible el rastreo de tendencias cuantitativas. Los datos de degradación y fragmentación del hábitat son la base biológica de metas cuantitativas para la restauración regional. [source] Spontaneously healed horizontal root fracture in maxillary first premolar: report of a caseDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 2 2007Funda Kont Çobankara Abstract,,, Root fractures of the posterior teeth are rare and occur as a result of severe trauma. This study describes the horizontal root fracture of a maxillary first premolar. The fractured roots were discovered during a routine radiographic examination. The tooth was asymptomatic and responded positively to electric pulp testing. The patient reported accidental trauma, which occurred 14 years before. Our case is an example of spontaneously healed fractured roots. The interesting findings were that the healing was observed even in the presence of two roots, including preservation of the vitality of the pulp. [source] Factors affecting treatment outcomes following complicated crown fractures managed in primary and secondary careDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2006N. G. Jackson Abstract,,, The aims of this retrospective observational study were to determine the factors which affect treatment provision and the Median Survival Time (MST) for maintenance of tooth vitality following complicated crown fracture. The survey was carried out for patients treated at Newcastle Dental Hospital (NDH) according to departmental guidelines over a 2-year period following the introduction of a new protocol for management of these types of injuries. Seventy-three cases of complicated crown fracture were identified in 69 children with a mean age of 10.3 years (SD = 2.5 years). Seventy-one percent of the fractures occurred in males (M:F ratio was 2.5:1). Fifty-one percent of the complicated crown fractures were in immature teeth. Of the 73 traumatised teeth, 45% presented initially in general dental practice (GDP), 37% at the dental hospital and 8% at local accident and emergency departments with the remaining 10% seen at other or unrecorded locations. Of the 41 fractures, which presented initially at a location other than the dental hospital, 38% were referred to the dental hospital without the provision of an emergency pulp bandage. The overall definitive treatments provided for the 37 open apex teeth included pulp cap (19%), partial pulpotomy (32%), cervical pulpotomy (8%) and pulpectomy (35%), while for the 36 closed apex teeth it was pulp cap (28%), pulpotomy (11%), and pulpectomy (61%). Of the 30 teeth, which underwent vital pulp therapy (18 open and 12 closed apex), the MST for the 15 teeth treated with pulp caps was 1460 days (95% CI: 1067, 1853) while for the 15 teeth treated with pulpotomies it was 1375 days (95% CI: 964, 1786). There was no statistically significant difference in the MST between teeth treated with pulp caps and pulpotomies. In conclusion, the proportion of patients referred to secondary care with complicated crown fractures without provision of a pulp bandage is of some concern. More conservative treatment of closed apex teeth sustaining complicated crown fractures, utilizing vital pulp therapy techniques would appear to be appropriate. [source] Vital pulp therapy with mineral trioxide aggregateDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2005Bekir Karabucak Abstract,,, The present case report describes the treatment of complicated crown fractures using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). MTA was used as pulp-capping material after partial pulpotomy to preserve the vitality of the pulpal tissues in two cases. Follow-up examinations revealed that the treatment was successful in preserving pulpal vitality and continued development of the tooth. [source] Influence of the type of dental trauma on the pulp vitality and the time elapsed until treatment: a study in patients aged 0,3 yearsDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2004Daniela Maria Carvalho Pugliesi Abstract ,,,The purpose of the present study was to determine the influence of the type of trauma on the pulp vitality and the time elapsed until seeking dental care in children aged 0,3 years seen at the Baby Clinic of the Araçatuba Dental School, UNESP. A total of 1813 records were analyzed. Two hundred and three patients, corresponding to 302 traumatized teeth, were assessed clinically and radiographically. Hard-tissue injuries were the most frequent (52%), with a predominance of enamel crown fractures (41.4%), followed by concussions (12.6%) and intrusions (11.6%). Clinical and radiographic examination revealed that 72% of the traumatized teeth maintained pulp vitality. In the case of supporting-tissue lesions, 51.1% of the patients sought care within 1,15 days after injury, while in the case of hard-tissue injuries, 52.7% sought care only after 16 days. The results showed that supporting-tissue injuries had a significant influence on the faster seeking of dental care. [source] Repair of untreated horizontal root fracture: a case reportDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 5 2003Murat Özbek Abstract ,,,We report a clinical case of horizontal root fracture in the mandibular first premolar induced by a traffic accident. The fractured tooth spontaneously healed and diagnosed radiographically after 2 years. Fractured fragments were separated by a narrow radiolucent line and the edges were rounded, and healing of the tooth is likely to be related to interproximal connective tissue healing. Our case is an example of spontaneously healed fracture roots. An interesting finding is that the healing was observed even in the presence of two root canals, the vitality of the pulp was preserved and displacement of fragments were prevented. [source] Efficacy of laser Doppler flowmetry for the diagnosis of revascularization of reimplanted immature dog teethDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 2 2001Kallaya Yanpiset Abstract , This study was performed to assess if laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) is an improved method for the detection of revascularization of replanted teeth. Teeth were extracted and reimplanted under different experimental conditions. LDF readings were taken before extraction and weekly for 3 months. In control teeth, LDF baseline readings were taken and then repeated after the apical blood vessels were cut surgically. At the end of 3 months it was determined radiographically and histologically whether revascularization had occurred, i.e. vitality had returned. Results: LDF readings correctly predicted the pulp status (vital vs. non-vital) in 83.7% of the readings. 73.9% (17 of 23) were correct for the vital teeth and 95% (19 of 20) were correct for the non-vital teeth. Fisher's exact test (2-tail) indicated that there was no significant association between the efficacy of LDF and tooth type (P=0.166), although P2 was the least accurate tooth tested. Wilcoxon's matched-pair signed rank test demonstrated that in the revascularized (vital) teeth, the flux value between the baseline and week 2 dropped significantly (P=0.0001), increased significantly from week 2 to week 4 (P=0.0001) and then decreased steadily until week 12. However, at week 12 the flux was still significantly higher than at week 2 (P=0.010). In the teeth that failed to revascularize, the flux value dropped significantly by weeks 1 and 2 (P=0.004 and P=0.0001, respectively). Flux values did not increase from week 2. A Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis confirmed a pulse of dominant frequency of 2 Hz in the teeth that returned to vitality and the lack thereof in those that stayed non-vital. One tooth in which the flux value evaluation indicated a non-vital tooth but the radiographic/histologic findings showed vital (false negative) possessed a pulse of dominant frequency and proved by this method to have successfully revascularized. [source] Pulp revascularization of replanted immature dog teeth after different treatment methodsDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 5 2000K. Yanpiset Abstract , The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of topical treatment with doxycycline and/or the application of unfilled resin to the anatomical crown on the occurrence of revascularization in reimplanted dog teeth. Ninety-six teeth in 4 young mongrel dogs were used. Eighty one teeth were atraumatically extracted and divided into four groups. Group 1, 17 teeth were kept dry for 5 min and then replanted. Group 2, 21 teeth were soaked with a freshly prepared solution of doxycycline (1 mg/20 mL saline) for 5 min before replantation. Group 3, 23 teeth were soaked with the doxycycline solution for 5 min, and then replanted. The crowns were coated with 2 layers of light cured unfilled resin. Group 4, 20 teeth were kept dry for 5 min, and then replanted. The crowns were treated as with the teeth in Group 3. Three months after surgery, radiographic evaluation revealed that 27 teeth had continued root development and 32 teeth showed arrested root development with periradicular pathosis. The remaining 17 teeth, which had arrested root development but no signs of periradicular pathosis, were all histologically evaluated for final assessment. The occurrence of revascularization according to treatment group was 29.4%, 60%, 60%, 36.8% in Group 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. A multiple logistic regression analysis in SAS indicated there was no significant association between vitality and dog (P=0.7564). Soaking for 5 min in doxycycline significantly increased the revascularization rate (P=0.024) while the addition of resin to the crown did not result in an increased incidence of pulp revascularization (P=0.823). [source] The functional impact of anxiety sensitivity in the chronically physically illDEPRESSION AND ANXIETY, Issue 4 2005Sonya B. Norman Ph.D. Abstract The symptoms and physical limitations resulting from chronic physical illness often diminish physical functioning. Comorbidity of chronic physical illness and an anxiety disorder is associated with greater impairment in functioning than chronic illness alone. One potential contributor to anxiety in the chronically ill is anxiety sensitivity (AS). The goal of this study was to explore the role of AS on functioning in the chronically ill. Participants were 267 primary care patients. Logistic regression showed that physical AS (but not social or psychological), controlling for age, gender, and negative affect, was associated with hypertension, heart disease, and high cholesterol (P<.01). Higher AS was associated with poorer vitality, mental functioning, and social functioning (P<.05). AS may be a correlate of poorer adjustment to chronic illness. Depression and Anxiety 21:154,160, 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Current Concepts of Fat Graft Survival: Histology of Aspirated Adipose Tissue and Review of the LiteratureDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 12 2000Boris Sommer MD Background. Controversy remains about the longevity of correction in autologous fat grafts and its relation to adipocyte survival. Reported long-term fat graft survival rates differ widely, depending on harvesting method, means of reinjection, injection site, and evaluation methods. Objective. To demonstrate histologic findings of aspirated adipose tissue and compare the findings to the reports in the literature. Methods. Review of the literature and the histology of transplanted fat 7 years after subcutaneous implantation and trypan blue staining to determine the vitality of defrosted adipocytes. Results. Fat cells survive aspiration with a suction machine or syringe equally well. Use of a liposuction cannula or 14-gauge needle gives comparable results. Local anesthesia or tumescent local anesthesia is recommended for the donor site, preferably with addition of epinephrine. Conclusion. Clinical longevity of correction after autologous fat transfer is determined by the degree of augmentation resulting from the amount of fibrosis induced and the number of viable fat cells. Survival of aspirated fat cell grafts depends mainly on the anatomic site, the mobility and vascularity of the recipient tissue, or underlying causes and diseases, and less on harvesting and reinjection methods. [source] Mapping Common Futures: Customary Communities, NGOs and the State in Indonesia's Reform EraDEVELOPMENT AND CHANGE, Issue 1 2005Carol Warren The post-Suharto ,Reform Era' has witnessed explosive revitalization movements among Indonesia's indigenous minorities or ,customary'(adat) communities attempting to redress the disempowerment they suffered under the former regime. This study considers the current resurgence of customary claims to land and resources in Bali, where the state-sponsored investment boom of the 1990s had severe social and environmental impacts. It focuses on recent experiments with participatory community mapping, aimed at reframing the relationship between state and local institutions in planning and decision-making processes. Closely tied to the mapping and planning strategy have been efforts to strengthen local institutions and to confront the problems of land alienation and community control of resources. The diversity of responses to this new intervention reflects both the vitality and limitations of local adat communities, as well as the contributions and constraints of non-governmental organizations that increasingly mediate their relationships to state and global arenas. This ethnographic study explores participants' experiences of the community mapping programme and suggests its potential for developing ,critical localism' through long-term, process-oriented engagements between communities, governments, NGOs, and academic researchers. [source] Confirmation Ministry in the Crossfire of Tolerance and FascismDIALOG, Issue 3 2002Moses Penumaka This article discuses the vitality of confirmation ministry in India in the present social, economic, and political contexts. The article analyses how confirmation ministry in the Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church contributes to Lutheran identity and leadership, dealing briefly with the theological impetus from Luther's Small Catechism and Luther's theology of sola fide and sola gratsia [source] Changes in the potential quantum yield of photosystem II and the integrity of cell membranes relative to the elemental content of the epilithic desert lichen Ramalina maciformisENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 4 2002Jacob Garty Abstract The present study used the epilithic fruticose lichen Ramalina maciformis to investigate the occurrence of mineral elements, including heavy metals, at a distance of up to 50 km from the industrial region in Ramat Hovav in the Negev Desert, Israel. The major objective of this study was an analytical comparison of elemental content and physiological parameters of lichen vitality, apart from a test of the applicability of this specific lichen in investigations of air pollution. The Ca, Cr, Cu, K, Mg, Na, Pb, S, Sr, and Zn content of thalli from the unpolluted Tellalim site collected in August 1997, transferred to 24 biomonitoring sites, and retrieved in April 1998 was analyzed in comparison with the following parameters: The potential quantum yield of photosystem II (PSII), and the integrity of cell membranes. Transplanted thalli in several sites at Ramat Hovav accumulated large amounts of most of the elements. The K content of the transplants located in the polluted sites indicated a leakage of this element, because this content was lower than that of thalli in unpolluted sites. Calcium, Cu, Mn, and Na showed an inverse correlation with the K content of the lichen. Calcium, Cu, and Sr showed an inverse correlation with the Fv/Fm ratio expressing the potential quantum yield of PSII. Calcium, Cr, Cu, Mg, Na, S, and Sr showed a positive correlation with the electrical conductivity corresponding with cell-membrane disintegration. The present study demonstrated a meaningful connection between enlarged concentrations of certain elements and physiological phenomena. The capability of the lichen to detect air pollution was found to be satisfactory. The dispersion of airborne heavy metals was found, however, to be local and limited to a few hundred meters from the source of pollution. [source] Quality of Life of People with Epilepsy in Iran, the Gulf, and Near EastEPILEPSIA, Issue 1 2005Gus A. Baker Summary:,Purpose: To study the impact of epilepsy and its treatment on the quality of life of people living in Iran and in countries in the Gulf and Near East. Methods: Clinical, demographic, and psychosocial details were collected through the use of a self-completed questionnaire distributed to patients attending hospital outpatient clinics. Results: Data were collected from 3,889 people with epilepsy from 10 countries. More than 40% of all respondents had frequent seizures, and reported levels of side effects from medication were high, the most commonly reported being nervousness, headaches, and tiredness. A significant number of respondents reported changing their medications because of side effects or poor seizure control. Respondents reported that epilepsy and its treatment had a significant impact on a number of different aspects of their daily lives. A significant number of respondents felt stigmatized by their epilepsy. Reported health status was reduced when compared with that of people without epilepsy, particularly for physical and social functioning and energy and vitality, as assessed by using a generic health status measure, the SF-36. Conclusions: This is the largest study to date documenting the impact of epilepsy and its treatment in Iran, the Gulf, and Near East regions. Differences were found between the quality-of-life profiles of respondents in this study and those who participated in an earlier parallel study in Europe. [source] Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) orchestrates the defense program of innate immune cellsEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 11 2008Frank Schmitz Abstract The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) can be viewed as cellular master complex scoring cellular vitality and stress. Whether mTOR controls also innate immune-defenses is currently unknown. Here we demonstrate that TLR activate mTOR via phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt. mTOR physically associates with the MyD88 scaffold protein to allow activation of interferon regulatory factor-5 and interferon regulatory factor-7, known as master transcription factors for pro-inflammatory cytokine- and type I IFN-genes. Unexpectedly, inactivation of mTOR did not prevent but increased lethality of endotoxin-mediated shock, which correlated with increased levels of IL-1,. Mechanistically, mTOR suppresses caspase-1 activation, thus inhibits release of bioactive IL-1,. We have identified mTOR as indispensable component of PRR signal pathways, which orchestrates the defense program of innate immune cells. [source] Influence of arbuscular mycorrhizal mycelial exudates on soil bacterial growth and community structureFEMS MICROBIOLOGY ECOLOGY, Issue 2 2007Jonas F. Toljander Abstract Plant root systems colonized by arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi have previously been shown to influence soil bacterial populations; however, the direct influence of the AM extraradical mycelium itself on bacterial growth and community composition is not well understood. In this study, we investigated the effects of exudates produced by AM extraradical mycelia on the growth and development of an extracted soil bacterial community in vitro. The chemical composition of the mycelial exudates was analysed using proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry. Following the addition of exudates to a bacterial community extracted from soil, bacterial growth and vitality were determined using a bacterial vitality stain and fluorescence microscopy. Changes in community composition were also analysed at various times over the course of 3 days by terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis, in combination with cloning and sequencing of 16S rRNA genes. Mycelial exudates increased bacterial growth and vitality and changed bacterial community composition. Several Gammaproteobacteria, including a taxon within the Enterobacteriaceae, increased in frequency of occurrence in response to AM mycelial exudates. This study is the first attempt to identify carbohydrates from the extraradical mycelium of an AM fungus, and demonstrates the direct effects of mycelial exudates on a soil bacterial community. [source] Preserving organelle vitality: peroxisomal quality control mechanisms in yeastFEMS YEAST RESEARCH, Issue 6 2009Eda Bener Aksam Abstract Cellular proteins and organelles such as peroxisomes are under continuous quality control. Upon synthesis in the cytosol, peroxisomal proteins are kept in an import-competent state by chaperones or specific proteins with an analogous function to prevent degradation by the ubiquitin,proteasome system. During protein translocation into the organelle, the peroxisomal targeting signal receptors (Pex5, Pex20) are also continuously undergoing quality control to enable efficient functioning of the translocon (RADAR pathway). Even upon maturation of peroxisomes, matrix enzymes and peroxisomal membranes remain subjected to quality control. As a result of their oxidative metabolism, peroxisomes are producers of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which may damage proteins and lipids. To counteract ROS-induced damage, yeast peroxisomes contain two important antioxidant enzymes: catalase and an organelle-specific peroxiredoxin. Additionally, a Lon-type protease has recently been identified in the peroxisomal matrix, which is capable of degrading nonfunctional proteins. Finally, cellular housekeeping processes keep track of the functioning of peroxisomes so that dysfunctional organelles can be quickly removed via selective autophagy (pexophagy). This review provides an overview of the major processes involved in quality control of yeast peroxisomes. [source] Global constraints on rural fishing communities: whose resilience is it anyway?FISH AND FISHERIES, Issue 1 2007Martin D Robards Abstract Sustaining natural resources is regarded as an important component of ecological resilience and commonly assumed to be of similar importance to social and economic vitality for resource-dependent communities. However, communities may be prevented from benefiting from healthy local resources due to constrained economic or political opportunities. In the case of Alaskan wild salmon, the fisheries are in crisis due to declining economic revenues driven by the proliferation of reliable and increasingly high-quality products from fish farms around the world. This stands in contrast with many of the world's wild-capture fisheries where diminished biological abundance has led to fishery collapse. Furthermore, increasing efficiency of salmon farm production, globalization, and dynamic consumer preferences, suggests that the wild salmon industry will continue to be challenged by the adaptability, price and quality of farmed salmon. Conventional responses to reduced revenues by the wild-capture industry have been to increase economic efficiency through implementing a range of entry entitlement and quota allocation schemes. However, while these mechanisms may improve economic efficiency at a broad scale, they may not benefit local community interests, and in Alaska have precipitated declines in local ownership of the fishery. To be viable, economic efficiency remains a relevant consideration, but in a directionally changing environment (biological, social or economic), communities unable to procure livelihoods from their local resources (through access or value) are likely to seek alternative economic opportunities. The adopted strategies, although logical for communities seeking viability through transformation in a changing world, may not be conducive to resilience of a ,fishing community' or the sustainability of their wild fish resources. We use a theoretically grounded systems approach and data from Alaska's Bristol Bay salmon fishery to demonstrate feedbacks between global preferences towards salmon and the trade-offs inherent when managing for the resilience of wild salmon populations and human communities at different scales. [source] Survival and vitality of Gremmeniella abietina on Pinus sylvestris slash in northern SwedenFOREST PATHOLOGY, Issue 6 2006J. Witzell Summary Survival and vitality of Gremmeniella abietina on Pinus sylvestris slash was studied in northern Sweden during 2003 and 2004. Once a month between September 2003 and April 2004, two to three trees were cut down and debranched. Shoots with pycnidia were sampled at the felling date and then at every consecutive month. The percentage of germinated conidia from each shoot was calculated after 24, 48 and 72 h incubation. The vitality of G. abietina pycnidia in the slash remained high the whole period. Intact pycnidia were found on slash several months after the time of conidial sporulation, which indicates that new pycnidia may be produced on dead pine branches. Sampling of shoots from slash on 13- to 18-month-old clear-cuts showed conidial germination capacity as high as in pycnidia collected in fresh slash. Due to survival of G. abietina in slash it is recommended to postpone planting of P. sylvestris seedlings in northern boreal areas to the third vegetation period after sanitary clear-cuts. Résumé La survie et la vitalité de Gremmeniella abietina dans des rémanents de Pinus sylvestris ont étéétudiées dans le nord de la Suède pendant les années 2003 et 2004. Une fois par mois entre septembre 2003 et avril 2004, 2 ou 3 arbres ont été abattus et ébranchés. Des pousses avec pycnides ont étééchantillonnées à la date d'abattage et les mois suivants. Le pourcentage de conidies germées a été calculé pour chaque pousse après 24, 48 et 72 heures d'incubation. La vitalité des pycnides de G. abietina dans les rémanents est restée élevée tout au long de la période. Des pycnides intactes ont été trouvées dans les rémanents plusieurs mois après la période de sporulation conidienne, ce qui suggère que de nouvelles pycnides peuvent être produites sur des branches mortes de pin. Des échantillonnages de pousses dans des rémanents de coupes rases réalisées 13,18 mois plus tôt ont montré une capacité de germination des conidies aussi élevée que dans les pycnides collectées dans des rémanents fraîchement coupés. Du fait de la survie de G. abietina dans les rémanents, il est conseillé de reporter la plantation des semis de P. sylvestris dans les zones septentrionales boréales à la troisième saison de végétation après les coupes sanitaires. Zusammenfassung Das Überleben und die Vitalität von Gremmeniella abietina auf Schlagabraum von Pinus sylvestris wurde in den Jahren 2003 und 2004 untersucht. Zwischen September 2003 und April 2004 wurden in jedem Monat einmal 2,3 Bäume gefällt und entastet. Zum Zeitpunkt des Fällens und in jedem folgenden Monat wurden Triebe mit Pyknidien gesammelt. Von jedem Trieb wurde die Keimrate der Konidien nach 24, 48 und 72 Stunden Inkubation bestimmt. Während der gesamten Beobachtungsdauer blieb die Vitalität der Pyknidien im Schlagabraum hoch. Mehrere Monate nach der Sporulation wurden intakte Pyknidien gefunden, ein Hinweis darauf, dass möglicherweise neue Pyknidien auf den toten Kiefernzweigen gebildet wurden. Auf dem Schlagabraum von 13,18 Monate alten Kahlschlägen war die Keimfähigkeit der Konidien ähnlich hoch wie bei Pyknidien von frischem Schlagabraum. Aufgrund des langen Überlebens von G. abietina in Schlagabraum wird für die nördlichen borealen Gebiete empfohlen, nach phytosanitären Kahlschlägen P. sylvestris -Sämlinge erst in der dritten Vegetationsperiode zu pflanzen. [source] ISOLATING CONNECTIONS , CONNECTING ISOLATIONSGEOGRAFISKA ANNALER SERIES B: HUMAN GEOGRAPHY, Issue 4 2009Eric Clark ABSTRACT. The varied and distinct ways we connect can facilitate or impose isolation, our own or someone else's. Different forms of isolation are themselves interconnected and sometimes enrich our connecting. The relation between isolation and connection, we argue, is one of complementarity, like Calvino's ,two inseparable and complementary functions of life ,syntony, or participation in the world around us , [and] focalization or constructive concentration.' Solitude sought can enhance connections. Imposed isolation weakens connections in ways both obvious and subtle. This contrast between sought and imposed underscores the influence of hierarchy and socially produced inequities, excesses of which fragment the social ties that could constrain or diminish these same inequities. Deep inequity degrades the quality of both connections and isolation, at significant costs to our health, ecology, economy, cultural diversity, and political vitality. From this vantage point, we cull ways to improve our syntony and our focalization, fulfilling by expressing those shared egalitarian moral sentiments that motivate connections of solidarity partly in the interest of being "left alone". [source] Relationship between intensity of physical activity and health-related quality of life in Portuguese institutionalized elderlyGERIATRICS & GERONTOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 4 2008Alexandrina Lobo Aims: Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is considered to be the key goal for health promotion in older people. This study explores the relationship between HRQOL and objectively measured intensity of physical activity (PA) in institutionalized older adults. The analysis of the PA patterns of the subjects in relation to recommended levels of PA was also performed. Methods: One hundred and eighty-five residents of long-term care homes aged 65 years or more, volunteered for this study. The Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36-Item health survey (MOS SF-36) questionnaires and the uni-axial MTI Actigraph were used to assess HRQOL and PA, respectively. Participants were classified as less active, reasonably active and more active by tertile of moderated physical activity (MPA). Results: (i) The men represented a greater number of counts/h and min of MPA in all the tertile groups; (ii) men from the less active group had a significantly higher body mass index; (iii) women came third and exhibited less total activity even though they used this time in more intense activities; (iv) there was a higher significant correlation between MPA, physical function and negative association with body pain in relation to the time of institutionalization in both sexes but was more strongly visible in men; and (v) only men presented a significant positive association with physical health, mental health and vitality. Conclusion: Any intensity of PA seems to be better than no activity for HRQOL, but MPA confers greater benefits for the perception of physical function and body pain in the case of institutionalized elderly persons. [source] Effect of symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease on quality of life of patients with chronic liver diseaseHEPATOLOGY RESEARCH, Issue 4 2008Kazutomo Suzuki Aim:, Reflux esophagitis is becoming increasingly more prevalent in Japan. It has been noted that symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chronic liver disease may adversely affect patients' quality of life. Methods:, In the present study, 238 chronic liver disease patients (151 patients with chronic hepatitis and 87 patients with liver cirrhosis) were enrolled. The diagnosis of GERD was made based on the Quality-of-Life and Utility Evaluation Survey Technology questionnaire. Health-related quality of life was evaluated using the Short Forum 36 questionnaire. Results:, Symptomatic GERD was present in 31.8% (48/151) of patients with chronic hepatitis and 36.8% (32/87) of patients with liver cirrhosis. Among the chronic hepatitis group, compared to the GERD-negative group, the GERD-positive group had significantly lower scores in six domains, including "rolelimitation due to physical problem", "bodily pain", "general health perception", "vitality", "role limitation due to emotional problem", and "mental health". Among the cirrhotic group, compared to the GERD-negative group, the GERD-positive group had significantly lower scores in the "role limitation due to emotional problem" domain. Significant improvement in the "physical functioning", "bodily pain", and "general health perception" domain scores was noted in chronic hepatitis patients treated with rabeprazole. Conclusion:, The QOL of chronic liver disease patients with symptomatic GERD was impaired. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||