Home  About us  Contact
 

Mean Percentage (mean + percentage)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Medical Sciences70%
Life Sciences29%
Distribution within Medical Sciences
Andrology7%
17 Other Subdomains79%

Terms modified by Mean Percentage

  • mean percentage change
    		•
  • mean percentage recovery
    		•

    Selected Abstracts

    Clinical trial: lansoprazole 15 or 30 mg once daily vs. placebo for treatment of frequent nighttime heartburn in self-treating subjects

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 5 2009
    D. A. PEURA
    Summary Background, Frequent nighttime heartburn is common. Lansoprazole 15 mg is indicated for treatment of heartburn and other gastro-oesophageal reflux disease-related symptoms. Aim, To evaluate the efficacy and safety of lansoprazole in self-treating subjects with frequent nocturnal heartburn. Methods, A total of 864 subjects with heartburn on ,2 days/week over the past month were randomized to double-blind treatment with lansoprazole 15 or 30 mg or placebo each morning. Endpoints were percentage of nighttimes without heartburn (primary), percentage of 24-h days without heartburn and percentage of subjects without heartburn on day 1. Results, Mean percentage of nighttimes without heartburn was significantly greater with lansoprazole 15 mg (61.3%) or lansoprazole 30 mg (61.7%) vs. placebo (47.8%) over 14 days (P < 0.0001 vs. placebo for both doses). Percentage of 24-h days without heartburn and percentage of subjects without heartburn on day 1 were significantly greater with lansoprazole 15 or 30 mg vs. placebo. Conclusions, Both lansoprazole 15 and 30 mg were highly effective and well tolerated in reducing symptoms in subjects with frequent nighttime heartburn. The benefit of therapy on 24-h heartburn and nighttime heartburn on day 1 of treatment was also evident. Lansoprazole 15 mg is a suitable choice for management of frequent nighttime heartburn. [source]

    CTLA-4 expression in T cells of patients with atopic dermatitis

    PEDIATRIC ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 5 2005
    Sung Yon Choi
    Cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4; CD152) is a surface molecule of activated T cells with sequence homologous to CD28, and may act as a negative regulator of T-cell activation. In murine animal models, cross-linkage of CTLA-4 molecules on the cell surface results in decreased T-cell proliferation, accompanied by increased interleukin (IL)-2 production and apotosis. To clarify the activation of peripheral blood T cells, we studied the CTLA-4 expression in 32 patients with atopic dermatitis who visited our institution, and 19 normal children who visited for pre-operative laboratory examination were used as normal controls. Whole blood was obtained from all subjects and stained with anti-CD3, anti-CD4, anti-CD8 monoclonal antibodies (mAb). After erythrocyte lysis with lysing solution, the cells were stained with anti-CTLA-4 mAb, and stained cells were analysed by fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACScan) flow cytometer. Intracellular expression of CTLA-4 was significantly upregulated in peripheral blood CD3+ T cells (36.8%), CD4+ T cells (21.7%) and CD8+ T cells (18.7%) of patients with atopic dermatitis, compared with normal control (18.3%, 9.7%, 9.8%; respectively). Furthermore, CTLA-4-positive CD3+ T cells in patients with severe atopic dermatitis were significantly higher compared with milder group (42.8% vs. 32.2%). However, no significant difference was obtained in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Mean percentage of T cells expressing CTLA-4 in patients with atopic dermatitis was higher than the control group. These observations suggest the possibility that the disease activity can be correlated with the CTLA-4 level. [source]

    Evaluation of Ki-67 and Bcl-2 antigen expression in breast carcinomas of women treated with raloxifene

    CELL PROLIFERATION, Issue 2 2010
    P. V. Lopes-Costa
    Objectives:, To evaluate the effect of raloxifene on Ki-67 and Bcl-2 antigen expression in operable, stage II, oestrogen-receptor-positive invasive ductal breast carcinomas. Materials and methods:, Twenty post-menopausal women who had taken 60 mg of raloxifene daily for 28 days prior to definitive surgery were enrolled in the investigation. Two tumour samples were obtained by incisional biopsy during the study, one at the time of confirmation of diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma and evaluation of oestrogen receptor status, and the other 29 days later, at the time of definitive surgery. Immunohistochemistry was performed on tumour samples, prior to and after raloxifene treatment, to evaluate Ki-67 and Bcl-2 expression. Friedman and McNemar tests were used for statistical analysis of the data, significance being established at 5%. Results:, Mean percentage of Ki-67-stained nuclei was 24.86 ± 2.95 prior to raloxifene treatment and 13.33 ± 1.52 after treatment (P < 0.001). Prior to raloxifene treatment, only 9/20 cases (45%) were classified as Bcl-2-positive, whereas after treatment, 17/20 (85%) were classified as Bcl-2-positive (P < 0.013). Conclusions:, Raloxifene treatment significantly reduced Ki-67 antigen expression and increased Bcl-2 expression in breast carcinomas of post-menopausal women. [source]

    Relationship between intragastric acid control and healing status in the treatment of moderate to severe erosive oesophagitis

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 5 2007
    P. O. KATZ
    Summary Aim, To assess the relationship between the percentage of time intragastric pH >4.0 and healing of erosive oesophagitis. Methods, In this proof-of-concept study, adults with endoscopically verified Los Angeles grade C or grade D erosive oesophagitis were randomly assigned to oral esomeprazole 10 or 40 mg once daily for 4 weeks. On day 5, patients underwent 24-h pH monitoring. At 4 weeks, erosive oesophagitis healing status was endoscopically assessed. Investigators scored gastro-oesophageal reflux disease symptoms on a 4-point scale [none to severe (0,3)] before and 4 weeks after treatment. The percentage of time intragastric pH was >4.0 and healing status were correlated and tested for significance using a Spearman rank correlation (r). Results, 103 patients had evaluable data (mean age, 48.7 years; 65% men). Mean percentages of time with intragastric pH >4.0 on day 5 in patients with healed and unhealed erosive oesophagitis were 61% and 42%, respectively (P = 0.0002), indicating that erosive oesophagitis healing rates were positively related to the percentage of time intragastric pH was >4.0. Greater intragastric acid control correlated with lower final daytime and night-time heartburn and acid regurgitation symptom scores (r = ,0.029, ,0.029 and ,0.021; P = 0.003, 0.003 and 0.032, respectively). Conclusion, A positive relationship between intragastric acid control and erosive oesophagitis healing was demonstrated. [source]

    Progression of astrocytomas and meningiomas: an evaluation in vitro

    CELL PROLIFERATION, Issue 1 2007
    L. Maes
    By verifying the proliferation capacity, human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) expression and in vitro invasion, in a group of highly malignant glioblastomas, benign meningiomas and astrocytomas, at the initial stage of progression, we have analysed putative progression in vitro for proliferation and telomerase expression. Materials and Methods: The relative proliferation status (visualized with Ki-67 antibodies) and presence of hTERT protein was analysed in 27 intracranial tumours (6 astrocytomas, 8 glioblastomas and 13 meningiomas) by immunohistochemistry on paraffin-embedded biopsy tissue, as well as on primary tumour-derived cell cultures. A confrontation model was used to analyse invasiveness in vitro. Results: The mean proliferation indices were 22.3 (SD = 18.1) for glioblastomas and 2.1 (SD = 1.9) for low-grade (LG) astrocytomas. The group of benign meningiomas had a labelling index of 2.2 (SD = 2.7). Mean percentages of staining for hTERT varied between 36.5 (SD = 28.4) for glioblastomas and 10.2 (SD = 8.6) for LG astrocytomas. The group of benign meningiomas had a labelling index of 12.4 (SD = 19.2) for hTERT. A significant difference was seen for Ki-67 (P < 0.05) and hTERT (P < 0.001) in vivo versus in vitro. No difference was seen between the group of invasive and non-invasive tumour-derived cell cultures for the histopathological markers Ki-67 and hTERT (P > 0.05) in vitro. Conclusions: The elevated expression of hTERT and Ki-67 in vitro provides a potential prognostic tool for early detection of the progression of brain tumours. As tumour cells require telomerase for continued proliferation, the expression of hTERT may mark immortality, leading to indefinite life span. On the other hand, hTERT expression and cell proliferation are not linked directly to invasion in vitro. [source]

    Comparison of bone marrow and peripheral blood ZAP-70 status examined by flow cytometric immunophenotyping in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia

    CYTOMETRY, Issue 4 2006
    Rachel Sheridan
    Abstract Background: The mutational status of the immunoglobulin heavy chain variable gene in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia correlates with prognosis. Patients with mutated IgVH genes fare better than those with unmutated genes. Gene expression profiling studies identified the tyrosine kinase ZAP-70 to be expressed in unmutated CLL samples. Flow cytometric examination of ZAP-70 expression in tumor cells has been proposed to be a convenient surrogate marker for IgVH mutational status. However, a few studies have shown a small number of discordant results between ZAP-70 positivity, IgVH mutational status, and clinical outcome. There have been no reported studies comparing bone marrow samples with peripheral blood for ZAP-70 expression in CLL patients. Methods: We searched our flow cytometry files from October 2004 through April 2006 and identified CLL in 311 bone marrow and peripheral blood specimens from 256 patients. We defined ZAP-70 positivity as greater than 30% of the CD19+ B-cells above the isotype control value that coexpress ZAP-70. Statistical analyses were performed using the Fisher exact test and student t -test. Results: A significantly greater number of bone marrow specimens were positive for ZAP-70 when compared with the number of peripheral blood specimens. Of all the ZAP-70 negative specimens, CLL cells from bone marrow had a greater mean percentage of ZAP-70 positive cells when compared with the CLL cells from peripheral blood. Finally, six patients were identified who were ZAP-70 positive in the bone marrow but ZAP-70 negative in the peripheral blood. Conclusions: These results may be due to either an increase in the false positive rate in bone marrow specimens or to an intrinsic feature of CLL cells in the compartment that is biologically distinct from peripheral tumor cells. As prognosis and treatment decisions may be based on ZAP-70 results from either specimen type, it is prudent to further examine this observation. © 2006 International Society for Analytical Cytology [source]

    Increased Glycosaminoglycans Production in Sclerosing Basal Cell Carcinoma-Derived Fibroblasts and Stimulation of Normal Skin Fibroblast Glycosaminoglycans Production by a Cytokine-Derived from Sclerosing Basal Cell Carcinoma

    DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 11 2000
    Ronald L. Moy MD
    Sclerosing basal cell carcinoma (S-BCC) is characterized by an abundant stroma. There is evidence that some tumor cells secrete cytokines that are mitogenic for stromal fibroblasts (FBs). From this study we report increased glycosaminoglycan (GAG) production by cultures of S-BCC FBs in comparison to cultures of nodular BCC (N-BCC) FBs and normal skin FBs. GAG production was measured by cetylpyridinium chloride precipitation of incorporated [3H]-glucosamine. The sclerosing BCC FBs demonstrated a significant increase in production of GAG over control FBs (P < .001) and over N-BCC FBs (P < .001). Values reported as a mean percentage ± SEM for GAG production by S-BCC over control normal skin FBs are 359 ± 28 and over N-BCC FBs are 266 ± 27. In additional experiments, cell extract dilutions from S-BCC tumor, normal dermis, and normal epidermis were incubated with cultures of normal skin FBs. S-BCC-conditioned media was also incubated with normal FBs and GAG production was measured. For both S-BCC extracts and conditioned media, a dose response curve was established showing increased GAG production by normal FBs in relation to increasing the concentration of S-BCC extract or conditioned media. When S-BCC extract was added to normal FBs there was increased GAG production in comparison to normal FBs incubated with dermal or epidermal extracts (P < .001) for both. Two growth factors, transforming growth factor-, (TGF-,) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), already known to be mitogenic for FBs, were incubated with N-BCC and normal FBs in an effort to elucidate the potential cytokine(s) released by S-BCC, causing increased GAG production by surrounding FBs. Neither of these cytokines proved to be effective in promoting a significant increase in GAG production. Our findings support the hypothesis that BCCs release factors that alter stromal FB production of GAG. [source]

    Influence of contamination by organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls on the breeding of the Spanish Imperial Eagle (Aquila adalberti)

    ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 2 2008
    Mauro Hernández
    Abstract We evaluated temporal and regional trends of organochlorine (OC) pesticide (including polychlorinated biphenyl [PCB]) levels in eggs of the Spanish Imperial Eagle (Aquila adalberti) collected in Spain between 1972 and 2003. Levels of p,p,-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) and PCBs varied significantly (p = 0.022) among regions (central, western, and Doñana), being higher in Doñana than in the central and western populations (DDE: 1.64 ± 5.56, 0.816 ± 1.70, and 1.1 ± 2.66 ,g/g, respectively; PCBs: 1.189 ± 5.0, 0.517 ± 1.55, and 0.578 ± 1.75 ,g/g, respectively). Levels of DDE decreased with time, but a significant interaction was observed between region and time. In Doñana, egg volume and breadth as well as Ratcliffe Index were significantly lower after DDT use (p = 0.0018) than during the pre-DDT period (p = 0.0018); eggs were significantly smaller overall than in the other two regions (p = 0.04) and were smaller when DDE levels increased, even when controlling for regional differences (p = 0.04). Productivity in Doñana was significantly lower than in the other regions (p < 0.001). Clutch size in Doñana varied according to DDE concentrations (p = 0.01), with the highest DDE concentrations found in clutches consisting of one egg. When considering eggs with DDE levels greater than 3.5 ,g/g, a significant effect of DDE on fertility was found (p = 0.03). Clutches with DDE levels greater than 4.0 ,g/g had a higher probability of hatching failure (p = 0.07) and produced fewer fledglings (p = 0.03). If we consider 3.5 ,g/g as the lowest-observable-adverse-effect level, the proportion of sampled clutches that exceeded that level in Doñana (29%) was significantly higher than in other regions (p < 0.001). These eggs showed a mean percentage of thinning of 16.72%. Contamination by OCs, mainly DDE, could explain, at least in part, the low productivity of the Spanish Imperial Eagles in Doñana. [source]

    Occurrence of several arsenic compounds in the liver of birds, cetaceans, pinnipeds, and sea turtles

    ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 6 2003
    Reiji Kubota
    Abstract Concentrations of total arsenic and individual arsenic compounds were determined in livers of birds, cetaceans, pinnipeds, and sea turtles by using hydride generation-atomic absorption spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography/inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Hepatic arsenic concentrations in loggerhead turtles (11.2 ± 3.0 ,g/g dry wt) and black-footed albatrosses (12.2 ± 10.8 ,g/g dry wt) were extremely high among the species examined, and the values were comparable with those of lower trophic marine animals such as fishes, cephalopods, crustaceans, and shellfishes. In all the species, arsenobetaine was the predominant arsenic compound in the livers. Especially, for black-footed albatrosses and black-tailed gull, the mean percentage of arsenobetaine was as high as 97.1 and 87.5, respectively, of extractable arsenic. The present study is among the first on arsenic speciation in avian species. Total arsenic concentration was strongly correlated with the concentration of arsenobetaine, while no significant relationship was observed between total arsenic concentration and other arsenic compounds in these animals. Because arsenobetaine is known to be rapidly excreted into the urine in humans and experimental animals, the observed results suggest that higher trophic marine animals might have a unique metabolism of arsenobetaine and that arsenobetaine plays an important role in the accumulation of arsenic in these animals. [source]

    A randomized trial of classical and medium-chain triglyceride ketogenic diets in the treatment of childhood epilepsy

    EPILEPSIA, Issue 5 2009
    Elizabeth G. Neal
    Summary Purpose:, To conduct the first randomized trial on classical and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) versions of the ketogenic diet, examining efficacy and tolerability after 3, 6, and 12 months. Methods:, One hundred forty-five children with intractable epilepsy were randomized to receive a classical or an MCT diet. Seizure frequency was assessed after 3, 6, and 12 months. Treatment withdrawals were documented. Tolerability was assessed by questionnaire, and blood ketone levels were measured. Results:, Of the 61 children who started a classical diet and the 64 who started an MCT diet, data from 94 were available for analysis: 45 classical and 49 MCT. After 3, 6, and 12 months there were no statistically significant differences in mean percentage of baseline seizures between the two groups (3 months: classical 66.5%, MCT 68.9%; 6 months: classical 48.5%, MCT 67.6%; 12 months: classical 40.8%, MCT 53.2%; all p > 0.05). There were no significant differences between groups in numbers achieving greater than 50% or 90% seizure reduction. Serum acetoacetate and ,-hydroxybutyrate levels at 3 and 6 months were significantly higher in children on the classical diet (p < 0.01); this was the case at 12 months for acetoacetate. There were no significant differences in tolerability except increased reports in the classical group of lack of energy after 3 months and vomiting after 12 months. Discussion:, This study has shown classical and MCT ketogenic diet protocols to be comparable in efficacy and tolerability; both ways of implementing the diet have their place in the treatment of childhood epilepsy. [source]

    Increased circulating platelet,leukocyte aggregates in myeloproliferative disorders is correlated to previous thrombosis, platelet activation and platelet count

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2001
    Morten Krogh Jensen
    Abstract: Platelet,leukocyte adhesion may occur as a consequence of platelet activation and possibly plays a key role in the deposition of activated platelets and fibrin in the thrombotic plug. The aim of the present study was to assess by whole blood flow cytometry the presence of circulating platelet,leukocyte aggregates (PLA) and the platelet,leukocyte response to platelet agonist stimulation (ADP and TRAP) in 50 patients with chronic myeloproliferative disorders (MPD) and 30 controls. PLA were identified as platelet,granulocyte/monocyte aggregates (PGMA), platelet,monocyte aggregates (PMA) and defined as the percentage of leukocytes coexpressing the platelet-specific marker glycoprotein Ib. Compared to controls the mean percentage of PGMA and PMA was increased in unstimulated whole blood from patients with MPD (7.98 vs. 1.76%; p<0.001 and 12.34 vs. 3.2%; p<0.001, respectively). The percentage of PGMA was correlated to the platelet count (r=0.46; p<0.001), percentage of P-selectin (r=0.69; p<0.001) and thrombospondin (r=0.58; p<0.001) positive platelets and platelet expression of GPIV (r=0.33; p=0.02). The mean percentage of PGMA and PMA was significantly increased in ADP-stimulated whole blood of patients (57.14 vs. 47.92%; p=0.009 and 54.91 vs. 45.89%; p<0.001, respectively). Compared to patients without a history of thrombosis, patients having experienced microvascular disturbances or a thrombotic event had a higher mean percentage of PGMA and PMA in non-stimulated whole blood (10.07 vs. 6.34%; p=0.025 and 14.81 vs. 10.48%; p=0.021, respectively) and a higher percentage of PGMA in ADP stimulated whole blood (64.32 vs. 51.50%; p<0.01). These data document an increased frequency of PLA in non-stimulated whole blood in MPD associated with a previous history of thrombosis or microvascular disturbances. [source]

    Lower weight gain with the orally disintegrating olanzapine than with standard tablets in first-episode never treated psychotic patients

    HUMAN PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY: CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL, Issue 1 2007
    B. Arranz
    Abstract Objective A post-hoc analysis of the data from a randomised clinical trial involving prescription of antipsychotic treatment to never treated first-onset psychotic patients was used to compare the weight change after 6-week olanzapine treatment (standard tablets vs. orally disintegrating formulation). Method In the subgroup of 38 patients randomised to olanzapine, standard olanzapine tablets were non-randomly and consecutively prescribed to the first 19 patients, with the orally disintegrating formulation being prescribed to the following 19 patients. Results After 6-week treatment with olanzapine, a significant higher increase in weight was noted in those patients on standard tablets (mean weight increase 6.3,±,1.9,Kg) as compared to those on orally disintegrating olanzapine (mean weight increase 3.3,±,3.2,Kg) (F,=,7.7; p,=,0.009). BMI increase was also significantly higher in the olanzapine tablet group (mean increase of 2.1,Kg/m2 as compared with 1.1,Kg/m2 in the orally disintegrating group) (F,=,4.7; p,=,0.036). Substantial weight gain (SWG) (,7% increase from baseline weight) was noted in 84.2% (n,=,16) of the olanzapine tablet patients and in 31.6% (n,=,6) of the orally disintegrating olanzapine patients, with the olanzapine tablet group showing a significant increase in the mean percentage of weight gain (F,=,4.0; p,=,0.014). Conclusions Partial sublingual absorption occurring with orally disintegrating olanzapine may bypass gastrointestinal metabolisation and hence lead to differences in metabolite versus parent compound ratios. However, the need arises to replicate the present study with a longer follow-up. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

    Comparison between computerized slow-stage and static liquid nitrogen vapour freezing methods with respect to the deleterious effect on chromatin and morphology of spermatozoa from fertile and subfertile men

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY, Issue 2 2001
    M. E. Hammadeh
    The purpose of this study was to determine the negative effects (cryodamage) on human spermatozoa after freeze-thawing and to determine whether freeze-thawing of spermatozoa with a programmed slow freezer is better than freezing with liquid nitrogen vapour (rapid freezing) with regard to alterations in sperm chromatin and morphology in semen from fertile (donor) and subfertile, IVF/ICSI, patients. Ninety-five semen samples were obtained either from patients attending our IVF unit for treatment (n=34) or from donors (n=25) with proven fertility and normal sperm quality according to WHO guidelines. Each semen sample was divided into two parts after liquefaction and addition of the cryoprotectant. The first part was frozen using a programmed biological freezer and the second part was frozen by means of liquid nitrogen vapour. Smears were made before the freezing and after the thawing procedure to assess morphology (strict criteria) and chromatin condensation (Acridine Orange test). The mean percentage of chromatin condensed spermatozoa in the samples from donors (control group) was 92.4 ± 8.4% before freezing and this decreased significantly (p < 0.0001) to 88.7 ± 11.2% after freeze-thawing with the computerized slow-stage freezer and to 87.2 ± 12.3% after using static liquid nitrogen vapour (p < 0.001). The corresponding values for semen obtained from patients was 78.9 ± 10.3% before freezing which decreased to 70.7 ± 10.8 and 68.5 ± 14.8%, respectively (p < 0.001). On the other hand, the mean percentage of normal sperm morphology in the control group decreased from 26.3 ± 7.5% before freezing to 22.1 ± 6.4% (p < 0.0001) after thawing with the computerized slow-stage freezer and to 22.2 ± 6.6% (p < 0.0001) after the use of static liquid nitrogen vapour. In the patient group, the mean percentage of normal morphology decreased from 11.7 ± 6.1% after freezing with the biological freezer to 9.3 ± 5.6% and to 8.0 ± 4.9% after freezing with static liquid nitrogen vapour. This study demonstrates that chromatin packaging and morphology of human spermatozoa decrease significantly after the freeze-thawing procedure, not only after the use of static liquid nitrogen vapour but also after the use of a computerized slow-stage freezer. However, the chromatin of semen samples with normal semen parameters (donor sperm) withstand the freeze-thaw injury better than those with low quality semen samples. Therefore, the computerized slow stage freezer could be recommended for freezing of human spermatozoa, especially for subnormal semen samples, for example, ICSI and ICSI/TESE candidates and from patients with testicular tumours or Hodgkin's disease, in order to avoid further damage to the sperm chromatin structure. [source]

    Development and Validation of a Geriatric Knowledge Test for Medical Students

    JOURNAL OF AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, Issue 6 2004
    Ming Lee PhD
    Objectives: To assesses the reliability and validity of a geriatrics knowledge test designed for medical students. Design: Cross-sectional studies. Setting: An academic medical center. Participants: A total of 343 (86% of those sampled) medical students participated in the initial study, including 137 (76%) first-year, 163 (96%) third-year, and 43 (86% of those sampled) fourth-year students in the 2000,2001 academic year. To cross-validate the instrument, another 165 (92%) third-year and 137 (76%) first-year students participated in the study in the 2001,2002 academic year. Measurements: An 18-item geriatrics knowledge test was developed. The items were selected from a pool of 23 items. An established instrument assessing the clinical skills of medical students was included in the validation procedure. Results: The instrument demonstrated good reliability (Cronbach ,=0.80) and known-groups and concurrent validity. Geriatrics knowledge scores increased progressively with the higher level of medical training (mean percentage correct=31.3, 65.3, and 66.5 for the first-year, third-year, and fourth-year classes, respectively, P<.001). A significant (P<.01) relationship was found between the third-year students' geriatrics knowledge and their clinical skills. Similar results, except the relationship between knowledge and clinical skills, were found in the cross-validation study, supporting the reliability and known-groups validity of the test. Conclusion: The 18-item geriatrics knowledge test demonstrated sound reliability and validity. The average scores of the student groups indicated substantial room for growth. The relationship between geriatrics knowledge and overall clinical skills needs further investigation. [source]

    Relationship between betel quid additives and established periodontitis among Bangladeshi subjects

    JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PERIODONTOLOGY, Issue 1 2008
    Rahena Akhter
    Abstract Aim: To determine the relationship between betel quid chewing additives and established periodontitis in Bangladeshi subjects. Material and Methods: A total of 864 subjects participated in this study. Among them, 140 pairs of sex- and age-matched case subjects and control subjects were selected. A case was defined as a person who had at least two sites with a clinical attachment level (CAL)6 mm and at least one site with probing depth (PD)5 mm. Subjects who did not fulfill these criteria were considered as controls. Information on sociodemographic variables, psychological stress, dental health behaviour, smoking and betel quid chewing habits was obtained. Results: Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that current betel quid chewers had greater probabilities of having established periodontal disease than did non-chewers (odds ratio=3.97, p<0.05). Mean PD, mean CAL, mean percentage of bleeding on probing and number of missing teeth were significantly higher in chewers of betel quid with tobacco and masala than in chewers of betel quid without such additives adjusting for age, sex, smoking habit, body mass index, dental visit pattern, stress and plaque index. Higher frequency and longer duration of betel quid chewing showed a significant relation to an increase in periodontal parameters. Conclusion: The results indicate that betel quid additives might significantly enhance periodontitis in the population studied. [source]

    Ethanol Can Modify the Effects of Certain Free Radical-Generating Systems on Astrocytes

    ALCOHOLISM, Issue 4 2004
    B. Gonthier
    Abstract: The central nervous system is vulnerable to oxidative stress, especially when a toxicant can modify the physiological balance between anti- and pro-oxidant mechanisms. Among brain cells, astrocytes seem less vulnerable than neurons, but their impairment can dramatically affect neurons because of their protective role toward neurons. Ethanol is able to stimulate the formation of reactive oxygen species and modify the activity of most of the antioxidant agents. However, ethanol can react with the OH· radical to form the ,-hydroxyethyl radical, which is considered to be less toxic. Ethanol also can stimulate H2O2 degradation through catalase activation. This study, therefore, sought to determine whether ethanol affected the sensitivity of astrocytes exposed to various free radical-generating systems. The cellular impact of such exposure was assessed by assays exploring cytotoxicity (i.e., NR (neutral red) and MMT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetiazolium bromide) reduction assays) and genotoxicity (comet assay) induced by these treatments. DNA alterations were evaluated by single-cell gel electrophoresis (comet assay), considered a precocious biomarker of intracellular alterations. After concomitant exposure to H2O2 and ethanol, the viability of astrocytes decreased significantly whereas the mean percentage of DNA in the tail increased, reflecting DNA damage (H2O2 was either directly added to the culture medium or endogenously produced from menadione). Ethanol also reduced the loss of viability and DNA alterations after exposure to OH· radicals produced by a Fenton system. The exposure to a xanthine/xanthine oxidase system had the same effect. [source]

    Clinical trial: maintenance intermittent therapy with rabeprazole 20 mg in patients with symptomatic gastro-oesophageal reflux disease , a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 9 2010
    R. FASS
    Aliment Pharmacol Ther,31, 950,960 Summary Background, Optimal long-term management of symptomatic gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (sGERD) patients has not been established. Aim, To determine the clinical value of maintenance intermittent treatment with rabeprazole 20 mg vs. placebo in patients with sGERD. Methods, This multicentre, US study enrolled patients with sGERD (,3-month history of GERD symptoms and ,4 days/week of heartburn during a 2-week placebo run-in) without oesophageal erosions. Patients with complete heartburn control after 4 weeks of open-label rabeprazole 20 mg daily treatment were randomized to 6-month, double-blind, maintenance intermittent treatment (7- to 14-day courses when heartburn recurred) with rabeprazole 20 mg or placebo. Results, The primary efficacy end point, mean percentage of heartburn-free days, was significantly greater with rabeprazole vs. placebo: 82.58% and 62.17% (ITT; P < 0.0001) [per protocol 86.74% rabeprazole vs. 74.93% placebo (P < 0.0254)]. Compared with placebo group, the rabeprazole group also experienced a significantly higher percentage of heartburn-free daytime (84.06% vs. 63.39%; P < 0.0001) and nighttime (95.41% vs. 90.25%; P = 0.0021) periods, had significantly fewer discontinuations because of insufficient heartburn control (6.3% vs. 36.3%; P < 0.0001) and took fewer antacid tablets daily (0.58 vs. 1.16; P = 0.0021). Conclusion, Intermittent use of rabeprazole may be an effective maintenance treatment strategy for patients with sGERD and warrants further investigation. This trial was registered with http://clinicaltrials.gov under the number NCT00165841. [source]

    Comparison of Four Staining Methods for Detection of Mast Cells in Equine Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid

    JOURNAL OF VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 2 2006
    Mathilde Leclere
    Mast cells normally are present in equine bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), but usually represent <2% of all cells in healthy horses. An increased percentage of mast cells has been associated with airway hyperactivity and inflammatory airway diseases, but marked differences are reported between studies in normal and diseased horses. Because an abnormal mast cell count may be of clinical relevance, we compared the ability of a fast Romanowsky method to stain mast cell granules with that of 3 metachromatic stains: automated Romanowsky, May-Grünwald Giemsa, and toluidine blue stains. The BALF cells from 24 horses were studied. A differential cell count was performed blindly on 400 cells. The percentages of mast cells obtained were analyzed by means of repeated-measures analysis of variance and Fischer's PLSD test. The Bland and Altman method was used to assess agreement among stains. The mean percentage of mast cells in BALF was significantly lower with the fast Romanowsky than with the automated Romanowsky, May-Grünwald Giemsa, and toluidine blue stains. With the fast Romanowsky stain, the metachromatic granules of mast cells were not stained, and their identification was based on morphologic criteria. Toluidine blue staining allowed detection of the highest mean percentage of mast cells, but was inadequate for performing a differential cell count on other cell types. In conclusion, fast Romanosky stain may be inadequate for detection of mast cells in equine BALF, whereas automated Romanowsky, May-Grünwald Giemsa, and toluidine blue stains provide metachromatic staining of mast cell granules. [source]

    Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy vs. antisecretory non-eradication therapy for the prevention of recurrent bleeding from peptic ulcer

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 6 2004
    J. P. Gisbert
    Summary Aim :,To perform a meta-analysis comparing the efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy vs. antisecretory non-eradication therapy for the prevention of recurrent bleeding from peptic ulcer. Methods :,A search was made of the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and several congresses for controlled clinical trials comparing the efficacy of H. pylori eradication therapy vs. antisecretory non-eradication therapy for the prevention of peptic ulcer re-bleeding. Studies with all patients taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were excluded. Extraction and quality assessment of the studies were performed by two reviewers. Results :,In the first meta-analysis, the mean percentage of re-bleeding in the H. pylori eradication therapy group was 4.5%, compared with 23.7% in the non-eradication therapy group without long-term antisecretory therapy [odds ratio, 0.18; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.09,0.37; ,number needed to treat' (NNT), 5; 95% CI, 4,8]. In the second meta-analysis, the re-bleeding rate in the H. pylori eradication therapy group was 1.6%, compared with 5.6% in the non-eradication therapy group with maintenance antisecretory therapy (odds ratio, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.08,0.76; NNT, 20; 95% CI, 12,100). When only patients with successful H. pylori eradication were included, the re-bleeding rate was 1%. Conclusions :,The treatment of H. pylori infection is more effective than antisecretory non-eradication therapy (with or without long-term maintenance antisecretory treatment) in the prevention of recurrent bleeding from peptic ulcer. Consequently, all patients with peptic ulcer bleeding should be tested for H. pylori, and eradication therapy should be prescribed to infected patients. [source]

    Quantitative evaluation of marine protein contribution in ancient diets based on nitrogen isotope ratios of individual amino acids in bone collagen: An investigation at the Kitakogane Jomon site

    AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY, Issue 1 2010
    Yuichi I. Naito
    Abstract Nitrogen stable isotopes analysis of individual bone collagen amino acids was applied to archeological samples as a new tool for assessing the composition of ancient human diets and calibrating radiocarbon dates. We used this technique to investigate human and faunal samples from the Kitakogane shell midden in Hokkaido, Japan (5,300,6,000 cal BP). Using compound-specific nitrogen isotope analysis of individual amino acids, we aimed to estimate i) the quantitative contribution of marine and terrestrial protein to the human diet, and ii) the mean trophic level (TL) from which dietary protein was derived from marine ecosystems. Data were interpreted with reference to the amino acid trophic level (TLAA) model, which uses empirical amino acid ,15N from modern marine fauna to construct mathematical equations that predict the trophic position of organisms. The TLAA model produced realistic TL estimates for the Kitakogane marine animals. However, this model was not appropriate for the interpretation of human amino acid ,15N, as dietary protein is derived from both marine and terrestrial environments. Hence, we developed a series of relevant equations that considered the consumption of dietary resources from both ecosystems. Using these equations, the mean percentage of marine protein in the Kitakogane human diet was estimated to be 74%. Although this study is one of the first systematic investigations of amino acid ,15N in archeological bone collagen, we believe that this technique is extremely useful for TL reconstruction, palaeodietary interpretation, and the correction of marine reservoir effects for radiocarbon dating. Am J Phys Anthropol 143:31,40, 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

    The Biology and Management of Subglottic Hemangioma: Past, Present, Future,

    THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 11 2004
    Reza Rahbar DMD
    Abstract Objectives/Hypothesis: Objectives were 1) to review the presentation, natural history, and management of subglottic hemangioma; 2) to assess the affect of five variables (age, gender, degree of subglottic narrowing, location and extent of subglottic hemangioma, and lack or presence of other hemangioma) and the outcome of six different treatment modalities (conservative monitoring, corticosteroid, laser surgery, tracheotomy, laryngotracheoplasty, and interferon) in the management of subglottic hemangioma; and 3) to present specific guidelines to help determine the best possible treatment modality at the time of initial presentation. Study Design: Retrospective review in the setting of three tertiary care pediatric medical centers. Methods: Methods included 1) extensive review of the literature; 2) a systematic review with respect to age, gender, presentation, associated medical problems, location and degree of subglottic narrowing, initial treatment, need for subsequent treatments, outcome, complications, and prognosis; and 3) statistical analysis to determine the effect of five variables (age, gender, degree of subglottic narrowing, location and extent of subglottic hemangioma, and lack or presence of other hemangioma) and the outcome of six different treatment modalities (conservative monitoring, corticosteroid, laser surgery, tracheotomy, laryngotracheoplasty, and interferon). Results: In all, 116 patients with a mean age of 4.7 months were treated. The most common location of subglottic hemangioma was the left side. The range of subglottic narrowing was 10% to 99% (mean percentage, 65%). Twenty-six patients (22%) were managed with a single treatment modality, which included conservative monitoring (n = 13), corticosteroid (n = 11), and tracheotomy (n = 2). Ninety patients (78%) required multimodality treatments. Overall, the treatments included conservative monitoring (n = 13), corticosteroid (n = 100), tracheotomy (n = 32), CO2 laser (n = 66), interferon (n = 5), and laryngotracheoplasty (n = 25). Complication rates included the following: conservative monitoring (none), corticosteroid (18%), tracheotomy (none), CO2 laser (12%), interferon (20%), and laryngotracheoplasty (20%). The following variables showed statistical significance in the outcome of different treatment modality: 1) degree of subglottic narrowing (P < .001), 2) location of subglottic hemangioma (P < .01), and 3) presence of hemangioma in other areas (P < .005). Gender (P > .05) and age at the time of presentation (P > .06) did not show any statistical significance on the outcome of the treatments. Conclusion: Each patient should be assessed comprehensively, and treatment should be individualized based on symptoms, clinical findings, and experience of the surgeon. The authors presented treatment guidelines in an attempt to rationalize the management of subglottic hemangioma and to help determine the best possible treatment modality at the time of initial presentation. [source]

    Association between freezing agent and acrosome damage of human spermatozoa from subnormal and normal semen

    ANDROLOGIA, Issue 6 2001
    M. E. Hammadeh
    Summary. This experimental study compares the effects of human sperm preservation medium (HSPM) with TEST,yolk buffer (TYB) as cryoprotectants of human spermatozoa with respect to the integrity of the acrosome after the freeze,thawing procedure. Fifty-six semen samples were included in this study; 18 were subnormal (G1) and 38 were normal (G2) based on World Health Organization criteria, except for morphology, which was evaluated according to strict criteria. Each semen sample was divided into two parts: the first part was prepared for cryopreservation by the addition of HSPM (1:1) and the second by addition of TYB (1:1). Freezing was performed in liquid nitrogen vapour. Smears were made before freezing and after the thawing process for evaluation of acrosome integrity using fluorescent-lectin labelling. The mean percentage of spermatozoa with intact acrosomes in the subnormal group was 77.0 ± 7.2% before freezing and decreased significantly (P < 0.001) after thawing: to 63.7 ± 8.2% with the use of HSPM and 66.8 ± 8.7% with the use of TYB. The corresponding values in the normal semen samples were 83.4 ± 9.2%, 76.0 ± 8.8% and 77.9 ± 9.2%, respectively. It is obvious that the decrease in the mean percentage of spermatozoa with intact acrosome was significantly higher when using HSPM in comparison with TYB, not only for G1 (,14.9 ± 1.9% versus ,11.8 ± 1.4%) but also for G2 samples (,13.8 ± 1.5% versus ,11.9 ± 1.3%). In conclusion, TYB should be recommended for freeze,thawing of human spermatozoa as the first-choice cryoprotectant, for normal as well as subnormal semen samples, in order to protect the sperm acrosome from the deleterious effects of the freeze,thawing procedure. [source]

    Seasonal and sex differences in area preference and behavior of young cattle just after long distance transport

    ANIMAL SCIENCE JOURNAL, Issue 4 2008
    Toshie ISHIWATA
    ABSTRACT To determine seasonal and sex differences in behavioral motivation of cattle just after long transport, 54 Japanese Black × Holstein cattle were observed at 5 min intervals for 2 h just after 25-h transport by road and ferry. The stocking pen (12.0 × 9.5 m) consisted of an eating area (near a feeding alley), a drinking area (near water bowls) and a resting area (all areas except for other two areas). First, the effect of season was determined with heifers in summer (n = 12: 7.9 ± 0.6 months of age; 292.0 ± 18.5 kg) and autumn (n = 19: 8.2 ± 0.6 months of age; 295.8 ± 15.5 kg). The mean temperature on the observation day was 28.5 (max: 34.5, min: 24.5)°C in summer and 20.3 (max: 26.5, min: 16.4)°C in autumn. Percentage of cattle staying in each area was different by season (,2 = 22.0; P < 0.01). In summer, the percentage of cattle staying in the drinking area (26.7%) was greater than the expected percentage (16.7%). Percentage of cattle staying in the eating area was greater in both seasons (31.3% in summer and 53.6% in autumn) than the expected percentage (16.7%). However, the mean percentage of cattle performing each behavior was not significantly different by season. Secondly, the effect of sex was determined with steers (n = 23: 7.6 ± 0.6 months of age; 301.9 ± 20.7 kg) and heifers (n = 19: same as above) in autumn. Although the percentage of cattle staying in each area was different by sex (,2 = 20.2; P < 0.01), the percentages of steers (25.5%) and heifers (53.6%) staying in the eating area were both greater than the expected percentage (16.7%). However, percentage of animals performing each behavior was not different by sex. These results recommend to stockpersons that they should install additional troughs for hay and water into a pen just after long distance transport, since the number of cattle that can eat and drink at the same time was limited. [source]

    The association between socioeconomic status and exposure to mobile telecommunication networks in children and adolescents

    BIOELECTROMAGNETICS, Issue 1 2010
    Silke Thomas
    Abstract A potential association between socioeconomic status (SES) and self-reported use of mobile phones has been investigated in a few studies. If measured exposure to mobile phone networks differs by SES in children, it has not yet been studied. Interview data of 1,481 children and 1,505 adolescents on participants' mobile phone use, socio-demographic characteristics and potential confounders were taken from the German MobilEe-study. Sociodemographic data was used to stratify participants into three "status groups" (low, middle, high). Using a personal dosimeter, we obtained an exposure profile over 24,h for each of the participants. Exposure levels during waking hours were expressed as mean percentage of the reference level. Children with a low SES were more likely to own a mobile phone (OR 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1,3.9) and also reported to use their mobile phone longer per day (OR 2.4; 95% CI: 1.1,5.4) than children with a high SES. For adolescents, self-reported duration of mobile phone use per day was also higher with a low SES (OR: 3.4; 95% CI: 1.4,8.4) compared with a high SES. No association between SES and measured exposure to mobile telecommunication networks was seen for children or adolescents. Mobile phone use may differ between status groups with higher use among disadvantaged groups. However, this does not result in higher overall exposure to mobile telecommunication networks. Whether short duration of own mobile phone use or the small numbers of participants with a low SES are causal, have to be investigated in further studies. Bioelectromagnetics 31:20,27, 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

    Activation of platelets in whole blood by recombinant factor VIIa by a thrombin-dependent mechanism

    BRITISH JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2003
    Barry Wilbourn
    Summary. Using a diluted whole blood method of flow cytometric analysis, we have shown that platelets could be activated in vitro in the presence of high concentrations (100 nmol/l) of recombinant factor (F) VIIa (rFVIIa; NovoSeven®) and 2·5 mmol/l calcium chloride. This was demonstrated by a significant increase in the mean percentage of platelets expressing CD62P and their mean fluorescent intensity (MFI) after 30 min versus platelets incubated with calcium or rFVIIa alone or diluted blood alone. The presence of rFVIIa and calcium increased the exposure of the PAC-1 activation epitope of glycoprotein (Gp) IIb/IIIa. This effect was equally influenced by the presence of calcium alone but not by rFVIIa. The effect of rFVIIa was time and concentration dependent. Thrombin generation was also necessary, as the effect of rFVIIa was completely abrogated by the additional presence of hirudin. Furthermore, soy bean trypsin inhibitor (SBTI) but not corn trypsin inhibitor (CTI) abrogated CD62P exposure, suggesting that thrombin was derived via FX but not FXII activation. Exposure of CD62P demonstrated a significant lag phase, sometimes of the order of >,30 min, as well as large intersubject variation. Significant platelet activation was observed at a concentration as low as 25 nmol/l rFVIIa. Platelet,leucocyte aggregation was also increased in the presence of 25 nmol/l rFVIIa and calcium. No significant difference was observed between levels of CD62P in diluted whole blood and platelet-rich plasma adjusted to an identical platelet count after their exposure to rFVIIa and calcium for 30 min. [source]

    A comprehensive and novel predictive modeling technique using detailed pathology factors in men with localized prostate carcinoma

    CANCER, Issue 7 2002
    Louis Potters M.D.
    Abstract BACKGROUND The purpose of the current study was to evaluate modeling strategies using sextant core prostate biopsy specimen data that would best predict biochemical control in patients with localized prostate carcinoma treated with permanent prostate brachytherapy (PPB). METHODS One thousand four hundred seventy,seven patients underwent PPB between 1992 and 2000. The authors restricted analysis to those patients who had sextant biopsies (n = 1073). A central pathology review was undertaken on all specimens. Treatment consisted of PPB with either I-125 or Pd-103 prescribed to 144 Gy or 140 Gy, respectively. Two hundred twenty,eight patients (21%) received PPB in combination with external radiotherapy and 333 patients (31%) received neoadjuvant hormones. In addition to clinical stage, biopsy Gleason sum, and pretreatment prostate specific antigen (pretx-PSA), the following detailed biopsy variables were considered: mean percentage of cancer in an involved core; maximum percentage of cancer; mean primary and secondary Gleason grades; maximum Gleason grade (primary or secondary); percentage of cancer in the apex, mid, and base; percent of cores positive; maximum primary and secondary Gleason grades in apex, mid, and base; maximum percent cancer in apex, mid, and base; maximum Gleason grade in apex, mid, and base; maximum primary Gleason grade; and maximum secondary Gleason grade. In all, 23 biopsy variables were considered. Four modeling strategies were compared. As a base model, the authors considered the pretx-PSA, clinical stage, and biopsy Gleason sum as predictors. For the second model, the authors added percent of cores positive. The third modeling strategy was to use stepwise variable selection to select only those variables (from the total pool of 26) that were statistically significant. The fourth strategy was to apply principal components analysis, which has theoretical advantages over the other strategies. Principal components analysis creates component scores that account for maximum variance in the predictors. RESULTS The median followup of the study cohort was 36 months (range, 6,92), and the Kattan modification of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO) definition was used to define PSA freedom from recurrence (PSA-FFR). The four models were compared in their ability to predict PSA-FFR as measured by the Somers D rank correlation coefficient. The Somers D rank correlation coefficients were then corrected for optimism with use of bootstrapping. The results for the four models were 0.32, 0.34, 0.37, and 0.39, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The current study shows that the use of principal components analysis with additional pathology data is a more discriminating model in predicting outcome in prostate carcinoma than other conventional methods and can also be used to model outcome predictions for patients treated with radical prostatectomy and external beam. Cancer 2002;95:1451,6. © 2002 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.10869 [source]

    ,-Adrenoceptor agonists for the treatment of vasovagal syncope: a meta-analysis of worldwide published data

    ACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 7 2009
    Ying Liao
    Abstract Aim:, The present study was aimed at evaluating present randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding the effect of ,-adrenoceptor agonists on vasovagal syncope (VVS). Methods:, According to inclusion and exclusion criteria, articles were selected from medical electronic databases. RCTs were then assessed based on the Juni assessment, and meta-analysis was completed using the Review Manager 4.2 software. Indication to further evaluate effects was the recurrence of syncope during follow-up treatment or a response in the head-up tilt test (HUT) after treatment. The results were stated as odd ratio (OR), with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a p < 0.05 significant level. Results:, In total, six RCTs were selected. Funnel plot analysis showed possible publication bias. Meta-analysis of the six RCTs, including all 165 patients in the treatment group and 164 patients in the control group, indicated that ,-adrenoceptor agonists were more effective than placebos in treating VVS (OR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.06,0.77, p = 0.02). The further, weighted independent t- test disclosed that the weighted mean percentage of responders for midodrine (76.3%± 7.7%) was significantly higher than that for etilefrine (65.5%± 15.4%) (t = 5.863, p < 0.001). Conclusion:, The currently published RCTs support that ,-adrenoceptor agonists might be effective for VVS. Midodrine can be regarded as a better choice compared with etilefrine. [source]

    A Clinical, Radiographic, and Microbiologic Comparison of Astra Tech and Brånemark Single Tooth Implants

    CLINICAL IMPLANT DENTISTRY AND RELATED RESEARCH, Issue 2 2000
    Lorena Puchades-Roman BDS, M Clin Dent
    ABSTRACT Background: The soft tissues around single tooth implants differ fundamentally from the gingiva around natural teeth. There are very limited data comparing soft tissues around different implant systems. Aim: To assess whether the design characteristics of dental implants, particularly the implant-abutment junction, may affect the dimensions and health of the peri-implant soft tissues and radiographic bone levels. Subjects and Method: Fifteen Astra Tech and 15 Brånemark single tooth implants that had been in function for a minimum of 2 years in 30 partially dentate subjects were examined for plaque accumulation, probing depth, and bleeding on probing and compared to contralateral healthy teeth. Standardized radiographs were taken to measure the most coronal bone to implant contact on the mesial and distal surfaces. In addition, samples of subgingival plaque were taken on paper points and examined by darkfield microscopy. Results: Significantly higher mean probing depths (p < .001) and higher mean percentage of spirochetes (p= .003) were found at implants compared to teeth. In this sample, the Brånemark implants had significantly higher probing depths than the Astra Tech implants (median and interquartile range: Astra Tech 2.7 mm [2,3], Brånemark 3.3 mm [3,3.7] p= .026) and the most coronal bone to implant contact was closer to the implant,abutment junction in the Astra Tech implants (Astra Tech 0.6 mm [0.2,0.9], Brånemark 1.6 mm [1.4,2.0]. p < .001). Conclusion: Although there were statistically significant differences between the two implant systems, the clinical differences were small and probably reflect differences in the biologic width in relation to the location and design of the implant-abutment junction. [source]

    Comparison of Outcomes of Two Skills-teaching Methods on Lay-rescuers' Acquisition of Infant Basic Life Support Skills

    ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE, Issue 9 2010
    Itai Shavit MD
    ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2010; 17:979,986 © 2010 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine Abstract Objectives:, The objective was to determine if lay-rescuers' acquisition of infant basic life support (BLS) skills would be better when skills teaching consisted of videotaping practice and providing feedback on performances, compared to conventional skills-teaching and feedback methods. Methods:, This pilot-exploratory, single-blind, prospective, controlled, randomized study was conducted on November 12, 2007, at the Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion,Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel. The population under study consisted of all first-year medical students enrolled in the 2007,2008 year. BLS training is part of their mandatory introductory course in emergency medicine. Twenty-three students with previous BLS training were excluded. The remaining 71 were randomized into four and then two groups, with final allocation to an intervention and control group of 18 and 16 students, respectively. All the students participated in infant BLS classroom teaching. Those in the intervention group practiced skills acquisition independently, and four were videotaped while practicing. Tapes were reviewed by the group and feedback was provided. Controls practiced using conventional teaching and feedback methods. After 3 hours, all subjects were videotaped performing an unassisted, lone-rescuer, infant BLS resuscitation scenario. A skills assessment tool was developed. It consisted of 25 checklist items, grouped into four sections: 6 points for "categories" (with specific actions in six categories), 14 points for "scoring" (of accuracy of performance of each action), 4 points for "sequence" (of actions within a category), and 1 point for "order" of resuscitation (complete and well-sequenced categories). Two blinded expert raters were given a workshop on the use of the scoring tool. They further refined it to increase scoring consistency. The main outcome of the study was defined as evidence of better skills acquisition in overall skills in the four sections and in the specific skills sets for actions in any individual category. Data analysis consisted of descriptive statistics. Results:, Means and mean percentages were greater in the intervention group in all four sections compared to controls: categories (5.72 [95.33%] and 4.69 [92.66%]), scoring (10.57 [75.50%] and 7.41 [43.59%]), sequence (2.28 [57.00%] and 1.66 [41.50%]), and order of resuscitation (0.96 [96.00%] and 0.19 [19.00%]). The means and mean percentages of the actions (skill sets) in the intervention group were also larger than those of controls in five out of six categories: assessing responsiveness (1.69 [84.50%] and 1.13 [56.50%]), breathing technique (1.69 [93.00%] and 1.13 [47.20%]), chest compression technique (3.19 [77.50%] and 1.84 [46.00%]), activating emergency medical services (EMS) (3.00 [100.00%] and 2.81 [84.50%]), and resuming cardiopulmonary resuscitation (0.97 [97.00%] and 0.47 [47.00%]). These results demonstrate better performance in the intervention group. Conclusions:, The use of videotaped practice and feedback for the acquisition of overall infant BLS skills and of specific skill sets is effective. Observation and participation in the feedback and assessment of nonexperts attempting infant BLS skills appeared to improve the ability of this group of students to perform the task. [source]

    Anatomic distribution of apoptosis in medulla oblongata of infants and adults

    JOURNAL OF ANATOMY, Issue 2 2008
    A. Porzionato
    Abstract The aim of the study was to evaluate the distribution of apoptosis in the medullary nuclei of infants and adults who died of hypoxic-ischaemic injury. Apoptosis was studied by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labelling (TUNEL) in brainstems from 22 adults (7 subjects who died of opiate intoxication, 15 who died of other hypoxic-ischaemic injury) and 10 infants. The nuclei examined included the hypoglossal, dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, nucleus tractus solitarii, nucleus of the spinal trigeminal tract, cuneate, vestibular and inferior olivary nuclei. A morphometric analysis with the optical disector method was performed to calculate the mean percentages (± standard deviation) of TUNEL-positive neuronal and glial cells for the sample populations. Opiate deaths did not have higher apoptotic indices than other adult hypoxic-ischaemic deaths. Statistically significant differences between adults and infants were found in the neuronal apoptotic indices of the cuneate (28.2 ± 16.3% vs. 6.9 ± 8.7%), vestibular (24.7 ± 15.0% vs. 11.3 ± 11.4%), nucleus tractus solitarii (11.2 ± 11.2% vs. 2.3 ± 2.4%), dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (6.8 ± 8.5% vs. 0.1 ± 0.2%) and hypoglossal (6.6 ± 5.7% vs. 0.1 ± 0.2%), indicating higher resistance of the neuronal populations of these infant medullary nuclei to terminal hypoxic-ischaemic injury or post-mortem changes. Differences in neuronal apoptotic index were also statistically significant among nuclei, suggesting differential characteristics of survival. Nuclei with higher neuronal apoptotic indices were the cuneate, vestibular and nucleus of the spinal trigeminal tract, which are located in the lateral medullary tegmentum and share the same vascular supply from the posterior inferior cerebellar artery. [source]