Τετάρτη 13 Απριλίου 2016

Transfer factors of natural radionuclides and 137Cs from soil to plants used in traditional medicine in central Serbia

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Publication date: July 2016
Source:Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, Volumes 158–159
Author(s): Gorica Djelic, Dragana Krstic, Jelena M. Stajic, Biljana Milenkovic, Marina Topuzovic, Dragoslav Nikezic, Dusica Vucic, Tijana Zeremski, Milan Stankovic, Dragana Kostic
Transfer factors of natural radionuclides and 137Cs from soil to plants used in traditional medicine were determined. The transfer factors (TF) were calculated as Bq kg−1 of dry plant per Bq kg−1 of dry soil. Mass activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, 40K and 137Cs in soil and plant samples were measured with high purity germanium detector (HPGe). The concentrations of As, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn were determined, as well as the cation exchange capacity (CEC) and the content of exchangeable cations (Ca, Mg, K, Na). Wide ranges of values were obtained for all the metals, especially for Cr and Ni.The Absalom model was used for determination of the amount of 137Cs transferred from soil to plant based on soil characteristics such as pH, exchangeable potassium, humus and clay contents. The estimated transfer factors were in the range from 0.011 to 0.307 with an arithmetic mean of 0.071, median of 0.050, geometric mean of 0.053 and geometric standard deviation (GSD) of 2.08. This value agreed well with that calculated from the measurements of 0.069, geometric mean 0.040 and GSD 3.19. Correlations between radionuclides, metals, physicochemical properties and transfer factors were determined by Spearman correlation coefficient. There was a strong positive correlation between 137Cs transfer factor and the ratio of transfer factor for K and 137Cs. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was performed in order to identify some pattern of data.



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Va. paramedic receives 'Star of Life' award

RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond Ambulance Authority (RAA) paramedic Tiffany Samuels has received an American Ambulance Association's (AAA) Star of Life award for her leadership in clinical excellence and exceptional training for new EMS field personnel.

The Stars of Life awards, presented at AAA's Stars of Life Celebration April 11-13 in Washington, D.C., honor remarkable ambulance service professionals from around the nation who truly stand out and represent excellence in their field. All who receive this award are nominated by their peers.

Samuels has been with RAA since 2008 where she currently serves as a paramedic field training officer and chair of the RAA Clinical Services Committee. After graduating high school, Samuels was briefly employed in the banking industry before beginning her EMS career with the Richmond Ambulance Authority. In 2008, her EMS career started at an entry level position within the Logistics Department as a vehicle service technician. 

She has worked very conscientiously, entering each new position with an undeniable passion. Samuels' dedication and focus ensured she was confident and proficient at current certification and skill level before progressing through the organization to her position as a paramedic  field training officer. In this role, she takes great effort and shows immense pride in teaching new employees how to provide world-class EMS.

"Tiffany is a delight to work with," said Wayne Harbour, chief clinical officer for the Richmond Ambulance Authority. "She continues to be a valuable asset to RAA not only by the dedication with which she carries out normal day-to-day duties, but also by the many contributions she makes while serving on various committees. She helps shape the clinical direction of the agency by serving as chairperson of Clinical Services Committee."

Last year, Samuels received the 2015 RAA Medical Director's Award. This prestigious award is presented annually by RAA's internationally-renowned Medical Director, Dr. Joseph P. Ornato, to a paramedic who has demonstrated superior clinical abilities and has also dedicated personal time and effort to ensure RAA remains clinically on the cutting edge of mobile healthcare, not only in Richmond, but also nationally and internationally.

"She is an advocate for her fellow EMS providers while participating on the Wellness Committee, and she has presented many creative ideas to the Scheduling Committee promoting a positive work/life balance," said Chip Decker, CEO of the Richmond Ambulance Authority. "She deserves to be recognized as a Star of Life, and we are proud of her many accomplishments."

Samuels commented, "I am very honored to be selected by Richmond Ambulance Authority to represent them at the Stars of Life Assembly. To be considered with such high regard by my fellow coworkers and supervisors is truly humbling. I strive every day to live up to the reputation that this honor represents and will continue to do so with the pride and joy that comes along with truly loving my career."



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CPR training video misses its mark

A German social welfare and first aid organization has produced a video that some news outlets have called "sexy" to raise awareness of bystander CPR. The five minute video is a compilation of modern pop songs whose lyrics have been changed to explain the benefits and mechanics of compression only CPR.

Although the campaign attempts to connect with people 25 and younger by using songs like Robin Thicke's "Blurred Lines," Taylor Swift's "Shake It Off," and Beyoncé's "Single Ladies," the decision to dress the actors in a way that mimics the actual music videos causes the central message of the campaign to be lost.

As someone not far removed from the campaign's target audience, the appeal of using modern pop stars to disseminate life-saving information makes sense. But to imagine it as the best alternative is doing a disservice to not only the target audience, but women in general.

Why does this matter to EMS
EMS has a female problem. As an industry, women are an underrepresented minority in the workforce. Perhaps worse than their low numbers is the reality that women are more likely to be lower level providers and less likely to stay in the profession as opportunities to advance would naturally present themselves. This means that although the pay gap within many EMS organizations is smaller than other industries, this is in part due to the glass ceiling women face when attempting to enter positions of higher responsibility. 

Never is this more pronounced than at EMS conferences. Where, not only are there a limited number of women in the audience, there are even fewer on stage. Based on personal experience at recent industry events, I'd estimate that less than 1 in 6 conference presenters are female.

The idea that women can succeed in EMS can only happen when there are positive role models that up and comers in the industry can look up to. Women like Jullette Saussy, MD, who not only led her employees through one of the worst man-made disasters in history, but ten years later showed that stepping down can be an example of stepping up; or Fiona Moore, MD who is a shining example that one of the busiest services in the world can succeed in the new age of EMS with a woman at the helm; or Nicole Carlton who has shattered her glass ceiling by being the first female sworn in as the City of Cleveland Commissioner of the Division of EMS.

Perhaps more importantly are the every day women of EMS. Whose names and faces will likely never appear beyond their organization's website or Facebook page. The women that, in some cases, have paved the way for the next generation through a torrent of sexual harassment and gender-based degradation, only to come out a better provider, manager and leader on the other side.

Sadly, not all women in EMS have access to strong female role model with the ability to guide, mentor or provide them the social support that any young provider needs. And when that's the case, it's not surprising that most of those at the top have a Y chromosome.

Role of negative advertising
Around the same time the CPR video was making waves in the EMS community, another video surfaced. This campaign, #WomenNotObjects, advocates against most everything within the CPR video, skillfully putting a reverse spin on the objectification of women in advertising.

Public safety isn't above having the same issues that less service-oriented industries might fall prey to. As this most-recent CPR training video suggests, and previous others like it have blatantly propagated, sex can be used to send a message even when the final goal is altruistic. But that doesn't mean sex should be used as the message.

It's possible to create tasteful campaigns, whether educational or otherwise, so EMS must be willing to rise above the temptation to take the easy way out. When women aren't being portrayed in a way that highlights their professional accomplishments over their personal characteristics everyone loses. 



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Erratum to: Lessons Learned from Community-Led Recruitment of Immigrants and Refugee Participants for a Randomized, Community-Based Participatory Research Study



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Correlates of Perceived Smoking Prevalence Among Korean American Emerging Adults

Abstract

Perceived smoking prevalence, a strong predictor of actual smoking behavior, may be influenced by the ethnicity and gender of the reference group presented to Korean American emerging adults. Self-identifying Korean and Korean Americans aged 18–25 (N = 475), were invited to complete a 15–20 min online survey about their attitudes towards smoking. Predictors of perceived smoking prevalence were evaluated separately for four reference groups: Caucasian Americans, Korean Americans in general, Korean American men, and Korean American women. Respondents' smoking status was associated with perceived smoking prevalence for all reference groups except Caucasian Americans, even among light smokers. Father's smoking status was associated with perceived smoking prevalence for Korean American men, only among females respondents. Findings suggest that ethnicity and gender of both the reference group and respondents influence smoking rate estimates. Tailoring intervention content to the target population's gender and ethnicity may be a way to enhance smoking prevention strategies.



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Deviating colostomy construction versus stent placement as bridge to surgery for malignant left-sided colonic obstruction

Abstract

Background

Acute colonic decompression using a deviating colostomy (DC) or a self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) has been shown to lead to fewer complications and permanent stomas compared to acute resection in elderly patients with malignant left-sided colonic obstruction (LSCO). However, no consensus exists on which decompression method is superior, especially in patients treated with curative intend. This retrospective study therefore aimed to compare both decompression methods in potentially curable LSCO patients.

Methods

All LSCO patients treated with curative intent between 2004 and 2013 in two teaching hospitals were retrospectively identified. In one institution, a DC was the standard of care, whereas in the other all patients were treated with SEMS.

Results

In total, 88 eligible LSCO patients with limited disease and curative treatment options were included; 51 patients had a SEMS placed and 37 patients a DC constructed. All patients eventually underwent a subsequent elective resection. In sum, 235 patients were excluded due to benign or inoperable disease. No significant differences were found for hospital stay, morbidity, disease-free and overall survival and mortality. Major complications were seen in 13/51 (25.5 %) patients in the SEMS group and were mostly due to stent dysfunction (n = 7). Also, one stent-related perforation occurred. Major complications occurred in 4/37 (10.8 %) patients in the DC group, including abdominal sepsis (n = 3) and wound dehiscence (n = 1). Long-term complication rate was significantly higher in the DC group (29.7 vs. 9.8 %, p = 0.01), mainly due to a high incisional hernia rate. Fewer patients had a temporary colostomy following elective resection after SEMS placement (62.2 vs. 17.6 %, p < 0.01). Permanent colostomy rate was not significantly different.

Conclusion

SEMS and DC are both effective decompression methods for curable LSCO patients with comparable short- and long-term oncological outcomes; however, more surgical procedures are performed after DC due to an increased number of temporary colostomies and incisional hernia repairs.



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Combining endoscopic submucosal dissection and endoscopic mucosal resection to treat neoplasia in Barrett’s esophagus

Abstract

Background and aims

Piecemeal endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is the standard treatment of nodular Barrett's esophagus dysplasia and T1a cancer. Piecemeal resection may be incomplete and makes precise histologic assessment difficult. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a technique that enables en-bloc resection but has not gained widespread acceptance due to its technical difficulty, risk and long procedure time.

Methods

We developed a protocol consisting of a combination of a limited ESD with supplementary EMR in the same session if necessary, designed to increase en-bloc resection of the most worrisome neoplastic area while maximizing the rate of complete resection of dysplasia. Records of consecutive patients referred for treatment during a 2-year period were reviewed.

Results

Eleven patients were treated: two with ESD and nine with combined ESD/EMR. Eight patients had mucosal lesions; three patients had submucosally invasive cancer and were referred to surgery. Five of the 8 mucosal lesions were removed en-bloc by ESD with dysplasia-free margins. Two patients with T1a cancer had low-grade dysplasia in the ESD margins and removal of all dysplasia on EMR. One patient with T1a cancer had high-grade dysplasia in the ESD margins and on EMR. He required a second endoscopy to remove residual neoplasia. There were no adverse events. The mean procedure time was 66.4 ± 15.1 min.

Conclusions

Combining a limited ESD with EMR in the same session enables efficient treatment of visible dysplastic lesions in Barrett's esophagus.



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Comparison of postoperative surgical stress following robotic thyroidectomy and open thyroidectomy: a prospective pilot study

Abstract

Background

Robotic thyroid surgery using the da Vinci surgical system has certain cosmetic advantages; however, the invasiveness of robotic thyroid surgery is still a concern to many surgeons. Previous research has not directly compared the surgical stress of robotic thyroidectomy with that of conventional open surgery. The aim of the present study was to evaluate surgical stress using postsurgical measurements of several clinical markers.

Methods

A pilot study was performed to evaluate surgical stress following robotic and open thyroid surgery. A total of 29 papillary thyroid cancer patients from July to November 2014 were enrolled. Fourteen patients underwent conventional open surgery, and fifteen underwent robotic thyroidectomy. IL-6 levels, serum WBC counts, CRP levels, surgical plethysmographic index (SPI), and visual analogue scale (VAS) score were measured to compare surgical stress between the robotic and the open surgery groups.

Results

No significant differences were seen between the two groups in IL-6 level, WBC count or CRP level (p = 0.380, 0.374, 0.360, respectively). Mean SPI level during the surgery was 41.9 ± 4.7 in open group compared to 39.5 ± 2.2 in robotic group, though this finding showed borderline significance (p = 0.095). VAS score after open surgery was significantly higher than after robotic operation (p = 0.048).

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that robotic thyroidectomy can result in a less than equivocal systemic stress response than is seen in open thyroidectomy. However, further investigation including large-scale, prospective, multicenter studies is warranted for non-inferiority trials.



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Intraoperative assessment of the effects of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on the distensibility of the lower esophageal sphincter using impedance planimetry

Abstract

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has emerged as an effective weight-loss procedure for morbid obesity that is also effective for treating comorbidities such as diabetes. However, it has been associated with the development of GERD postoperatively. The pathophysiology of post-LSG GERD is unknown, and current studies have shown conflicting results. The aim of our study is to shed light on this issue by investigating the effect of LSG on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) function and the relationship of LES function to GERD symptoms.

Methods

A prospective study of patients undergoing LSG from 10/2013 to 8/2014 at a single academic tertiary referral center was carried out. Patients undergoing a concomitant procedure such as hiatal hernia repair or laparoscopic gastric band removal were excluded. Distensibility of the LES was measured after pneumoperitoneum and after LSG. Baseline GERD-HRQL was obtained with follow-up GERD-HRQL and weight at 3 and 6 months. The primary outcomes measured were LES distensibility and GERD-HRQL scores after LSG. Our secondary outcome was a correlation between LES distensibility and GERD-HRQL scores after LSG.

Results

Fifteen subjects were enrolled (5M/10F). Mean age was 51 years (30–71 years), and mean BMI 45 kg/m2 (30–58). We were able to obtain follow-up data for all patients at 3 months. Mean LES distensibility increased from 1.2 before LSG to 2.2 after LSG (p = 0.017). Median GERD-HRQL was 0 before LSG and remained essentially negative at 1 and 0 (3 and 6 months postoperatively, respectively). Three (27 %) of the patients had de novo GERD at 3 months following LSG. One (25 %) patient had remission of GERD. There was no correlation between LES distensibility and GERD symptoms.

Conclusion

While LSG weakens the LES immediately, it does not predictably affect postoperative GERD symptoms; therefore, distensibility is not the only factor affecting development of postoperative GERD, confirming the multifactorial nature of post-LSG GERD.



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The Prevalence of Meniscal Pathology in Asymptomatic Athletes

Abstract

Background

Meniscal pathology is a commonly seen orthopedic condition that can affect a wide age range of patients. Athletes subject their menisci to an increased amount of stress during their careers and may increase their risk of meniscal pathology.

Objective

The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the prevalence of isolated meniscal pathology in asymptomatic athletes.

Methods

A systematic review was undertaken to determine the prevalence of meniscal pathology in asymptomatic athletes. A search of multiple databases was conducted. Recreational and higher-level athletes were included. Fourteen articles including 295 athletes (208 male, 87 female) were identified for inclusion (age range 14–66 years, mean 31.2 years). Meniscal pathology was visualized with magnetic resonance imaging and graded on a 1–4 scale (grades 1 and 2 indicating intrasubstance damage, grades 3 and 4 indicating a tear).

Results

There was an overall prevalence of 27.2 % (105/386) of knees with intrasubstance meniscal damage (grades 1 and 2), and 3.9 % (15/386) of knees with a tear (grades 3 and 4). When athletes were split into those who participate in pivoting sports versus non-pivoting sports, pivoting athletes showed an overall prevalence of 15.3 % (31/202) of knees with intrasubstance meniscal pathology and 2.5 % (5/202) of knees with a tear. Non-pivoting athletes showed a prevalence of 54.5 % (61/112) of knees with intrasubstance meniscal pathology and 5.4 % (6/112) of knees with a tear.

Conclusion

The overall prevalence of isolated meniscal pathology in asymptomatic athletes was 31.1 % (27.2 % with intrasubstance meniscal damage and 3.9 % with a meniscal tear). More studies of age-comparable, non-athletic populations are necessary for direct comparison with these groups.



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Two-Load Method for Distinguishing Between Muscle Force, Velocity, and Power-Producing Capacities

Abstract

It is generally accepted that muscles may have different mechanical capacities, such as those for producing high force (F), velocity (V), and power (P) outputs. Nevertheless, standard procedures for evaluation of muscle function both in research and in routine testing are typically conducted under a single mechanical condition, such as a single external load. Therefore, the observed outcomes do not allow for distinguishing between the different muscle capacities. As a result, the outcomes of most routine testing procedures are of limited informational value, whereas a number of issues debated in research have originated from arbitrarily interpreted experimental findings regarding specific muscle capacities. A solution for this problem could be based on the approximately linear and exceptionally strong F–V relationship typically observed from various functional tasks performed under different external loads. These findings allow for the 'two-load method' proposed here: the functional movement tasks (e.g., maximum jumping, cycling, running, pushing, lifting, or throwing) should be tested against just two distinctive external loads. That is, the F–V relationship determined by two pairs of the F and V data could provide the parameters depicting the maximum F (i.e., the F-intercept), V (V-intercept), and P (calculated from the product of F and V) output of the tested muscles. Therefore, the proposed two-load method applied in both research and routine testing could provide a deeper insight into the mechanical properties and function of the tested muscles and resolve a number of issues debated in the literature.



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Emergency Medical Services Manager - Highlands County Board of County Commissioners

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: This is advanced, supervisory and technical work, supporting and assisting the Community Safety Director in the operations of Highlands County Emergency Medical Services. The individual filling this position should be very self-directed and capable of exercising good judgment in independent decision-making. This person should also be assertive enough to effectively manage a complex ...

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Emergency Medical Services Manager - Highlands County Board of County Commissioners

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: This is advanced, supervisory and technical work, supporting and assisting the Community Safety Director in the operations of Highlands County Emergency Medical Services. The individual filling this position should be very self-directed and capable of exercising good judgment in independent decision-making. This person should also be assertive enough to effectively manage a complex ...

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Prevalence of diabetes among stroke patients: a study in a tertiary care centre

2016-04-13T05-28-57Z
Source: International Journal of Advances in Medicine
Kande V. Mallikarjuna Rao, G. Pavan Kumar Reddy.
Background: Stroke is an abrupt onset of neurological deficit that is attributed to a vascular cause. Diabetes mellitus is known to be one of the major risk factors for stroke, apart from hypertension, ischemic heart disease, alcoholism, smoking, family history and hyperlipidemia. Since it was found that the serum glucose levels were elevated immediately after stroke, we had conducted this study to identify the clinical profile of the patients who suffered stroke, especially in relation to their glycemic status. Methods: Detailed demographic, physical and clinical history was taken from the patients and their relatives. Within 3 days of the onset of symptoms related to stroke, CT scan was performed on all patients to confirm diagnosis and to categorize the type and size of stroke. Based on the glucose levels, the patients were divided into euglycemic, known diabetic, newly detected diabetes and stress hyperglycemia. Results: The most common age in which stroke occurred was 50-60 years (55%), followed by 61-70 years (27.1%). 31.8% of the patients were known diabetic and the least was stress hyperglycemic with 8.5%. 51(39.5%) of the patients had ischemic stroke while 78 (60.5%) had hemorrhagic stroke. Conclusions: Diabetes is a very important risk factor associated with high morbidity and mortality.


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Prevalence, quality of life assessment of urinary incontinence using a validated tool (ICIQ-UI SF) and bothersomeness of symptoms among rural community: dwelling women in Southwest, Nigeria

2016-04-13T05-29-50Z
Source: International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health
Olajide O. Abiola, Ajibola Idowu, Olumuyiwa A. Ogunlaja, Oyeronke T. Williams-Abiola, Sola C. Ayeni.
Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a debilitating disease which impacts on quality of life (QoL) of affected individuals. Estimates of the burden of the diseases varied widely due to different definitions of the disease by different researchers. With the use of a validated screening tool-International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire- Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF) we sought to determine the prevalence of UI among women in a rural Nigerian community; examined their self-reported QoL and perceived bothersomeness of the symptoms. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive epidemiological study among rural community-dwelling women in South west, Nigeria with 229 participants selected by multi-stage sampling technique. The study was conducted using ICIQ-UI SF questionnaire with additional data on socio-demographics and bothersomeness of the symptoms. Correlates of QoL were determined with Spearmans rho correlation and associated factors of bothersomeness determined by chi square and logistic regression. Results: Prevalence was 12.6% and stress UI was the commonest type. Poor QoL reported in 65.5% of those afflicted with UI. Worsening QoL had a positive correlates with Age (p


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Estimation of measured pulmonary artery to aorta ratio for prognosis of pulmonary hypertension in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

2016-04-13T05-28-57Z
Source: International Journal of Advances in Medicine
Swetha Madas, D. Sai Vittal.
Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a type of obstructive lung disease which is characterized by poor air flow to the lungs which worsens over time. Enlargement of the pulmonary artery is associated with the severe exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Furthermore, it was indicated that MPA/AAo >1 could be an indicator to predict acute exacerbations of COPD. This study was thus undertaken to identify the association of MPA/AAo ratio and pulmonary hypertension by CT chest. Methods: 157 patients with definite diagnosis of COPD and 50 patients without any cardiovascular disease or lung disease were included into the study. The patients were asked to lay down in left lateral position with calm breathing during the Doppler test for PH measurement; electrocardiogram and heart rate were also measured for all patients. Results: Out of these 157 patients, 98 (62.4%) were males and 59 (37.6%) were females. Of the pulmonary artery diameter, the main, right and the left arterial diameter was considerably higher than that of the controls with 28.6, 21.8 and 21.5 mm respectively. There was no significant difference in the diameters of the ascending and the descending aorta between that of the patients and the controls. The ratio of MPA/AAo and MPA/DAo was higher in the patients that the controls. The MPA, LPA, RPA diameters were 30.3mm, 23.5mm and 23.2 mm in the patients with PH while they were significantly lesser in the COPD patients without PH. the most common comorbidities found was obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, stroke, abnormal CT findings, Emphysema, Fibrosis and Bronchiectasis with the MPA and AAo diameters significantly higher. Conclusions: We conclude that a high MPA:AAo ratio correlated with increase in the MPA and AAo diameter and as a result, increased arterial pressure and presence of PH.


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Atorvastatin versus rosuvastatin in non-diabetic patients with dyslipidemia: a comparative study

2016-04-13T03-14-22Z
Source: International Journal of Basic & Clinical Pharmacology
Donepudi Pavan Kumar, K. Ravishankar.
Background: Statins are recognized to be the first line of therapy for lowering cholesterol and have shown to reduce the morbidity and mortality caused by cardiovascular diseases. Atorvastatin and rosuvastatin are potent statins which can efficiently lower the cholesterol and triglyceride levels, we have thus undertaken this study to compare the efficacy of these two statins in non-diabetic patients. Methods: 150 patients selected for the study, were over 18 years of age with dyslipidemia with no management. Using a randomized computer table, the patients were divided into 2 groups of 75 patients each; group A, who were given atorvastatin 20 mg and group B who were given rosuvastatin 10 mg for 12 weeks. History, and blood tests for fasting blood sugar, hemoglobin A1C, lipid profile such as triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, urea, creatinine, uric acid, creatine kinase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotreasferase. Vitamin 25(OH) D, serum insulin and hs-CRP levels were measured after taking the base line details. Results: The numbers of women were lesser than that of men. There was a considerable reduction in the triglyceride levels, total and LDL levels in both the groups after 12 weeks of use although between the two groups there was not any significant difference. A slight reduction was seen in the hs-CRP levels and elevation in Vit D3 levels though this was not very significant due to the lesser duration of the study. Conclusions: Both atorvastatin and rosuvastatin are equally powerful statins and very effective in reducing the triglyceride and LDL-cholesterol levels. They are also effective in lowering hs-CRP and elevating vitamin D levels.


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Changes in Compositional and Keeping Quality Parameters of Cow Milk on Ethanol Stability

2016-04-13T01-52-52Z
Source: International Journal of Livestock Research
R.M.C.S. Rathnayake, U.L.P. Mangalika, A.M.J.B Adikari, W.A.D. Nayananjalie.
Even though, recommended ethanol concentration for alcohol test is 68% (v/v), different concentration levels are used to detect milk acidity which leads unjustified sample rejection. This study was aimed to investigate the compositional and keeping quality parameters of raw milk on ethanol stability. Milk samples were collected and tested for ethanol stability using different concentrations of ethyl alcohol viz. 66%, 68%, 70%, 72% and 74% (v/v). Selected samples were analyzed for compositional, keeping quality and physical properties. Result revealed that milk ethanol stability was significantly differed (P 0.05). Considering milk quality and rejection rate, use of ethanol concentration at the range of 68 - 72% (v/v) in the ethanol stability test could be recommended at milk reception.


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SURVEY OF LIVESTOCK MISMANAGEMENT AND OVERUTILISATION DURING DROUGHT IN YUSUFARI LGA OF YOBE STATE.

2016-04-13T01-52-52Z
Source: International Journal of Livestock Research
Idris Umar Hambali, Abdullahi hayatudeen.
A questionnaire survey on mismanagement and overutilization of drought animals was carried out in Yusufari Local government Area of Yobe State. Results generated from 400 respondents to the questionnaire revealed that drought animals in the Northern ward levels (82.5%) were more affected than those in the Southern ward levels (62.5%). There was extremely significant association (P= 0.0001) noted in the response of the animal owners in the study area. It was also indicated that female (80%) were greatly affected than the male(65%). The association was considered very significant(P=00011). The survey also revealed that young drought animals (90%) were more affected than the adult (65%). The association was extremely significant (P= 0.0001). Large drought animals (40%) were moderately affected as compared to the small drought animals (68.5%). The association was also extremely significant ( P= 0.001). KEYS : Survey, Livestock, Mismanagement, Overutilization and Yusufari LGA


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A comprehensive treatment for peritoneal metastases from gastric cancer with curative intent

European Journal of Surgical Oncology

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Unexpected early tumor recurrence in patients with hepatitis C virus -related hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing interferon-free therapy: a note of caution

Journal of Hepatology

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Extensively drug-resistant bacteria are an independent predictive factor of mortality in 130 patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis or spontaneous bacteremia

World Journal of Gastroenterology

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Effect of running on gastroesophageal reflux and reflux mechanisms

The American Journal of Gastroenterology

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Risk of lymph node metastasis in mixed-type early gastric cancer determined by the extent of the poorly differentiated component

World Journal of Gastroenterology

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Phase II and UGT1A1 polymorphism study of two different irinotecan dosages combined with cisplatin as first-line therapy for advanced gastric cancer

Chemotherapy

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Worldwide practice in gastric cancer surgery

World Journal of Gastroenterology

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Sorafenib after resection improves the outcome of BCLC stage C hepatocellular carcinoma

World Journal of Gastroenterology

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Socio-economic status and lifestyle factors are associated with achalasia risk: A population-based case-control study

World Journal of Gastroenterology

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A phase II prospective study of the trastuzumab combined with 5-weekly S-1 and CDDP therapy for HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer

Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology

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Clinical and morphologic spectrum of renal involvement in patients with HBV-associated cryoglobulinemia

Nephrology

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Metformin use and survival of patients with pancreatic cancer: a cautionary lesson

Journal of Clinical Oncology

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Ischemic colitis as a complication of medication use: an analysis of the federal adverse event reporting system

Digestive Diseases and Sciences

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Cost-effectiveness of Crohn’s disease post-operative care

World Journal of Gastroenterology

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Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor-1 (S1P1) is expressed by lymphocytes, dendritic cells, and endothelium and modulated during inflammatory bowel disease

Mucosal Immunology

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Acceptability of rapid point-of-care hepatitis C tests among people who inject drugs that utilize syringe-exchange programs

Open Forum Infectious Diseases

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Metformin enhances the response to radiotherapy in diabetic patients with rectal cancer

Journal of Cancer Research & Clinical Oncology

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The prognostic value of lactate dehydrogenase levels in colorectal cancer: a meta-analysis

BMC Cancer

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The prognostic value of rectal invasion for stage IVA uterine cervical cancer treated with radiation therapy

BMC Cancer

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Gastrointestinal tract colonization dynamics by different enterococcus faecium clades

The Journal of Infectious Diseases

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Healthcare Utilization and Spending for Constipation in Children with Versus Without Complex Chronic Conditions.

Objectives: (1) To examine the prevalence of diagnosis and treatment for constipation among children receiving Medicaid. (2) To compare healthcare utilization and spending for constipation among children based on number of complex chronic conditions (CCCs). Methods: Retrospective cohort study of 4.9 million children aged 1 to 17 years enrolled in Medicaid from 2009-2011 in 10 states in the Truven Marketscan(R) Database. Constipation was identified using ICD-9 codes for constipation (564.0x), intestinal impaction (560.3x) or encopresis (307.7). Outpatient and inpatient utilization and spending for constipation were assessed. CCC status was identified using validated methodology. Results: 267,188 children (5.4%) were diagnosed with constipation. Total constipation spending was $79.5 million. Outpatient constipation spending was $66.8 million (84.1%) over 406,814 visits, mean spending $120/visit. Among children with constipation, 1,363 (0.5%) received inpatient treatment, accounting for $12.2 million (15.4%) of constipation spending, mean spending $7,815/hospitalization. Of children hospitalized for constipation, 552 (40.5%) did not have an outpatient visit for constipation prior to admission. 6.8% of children in the study had > 1 CCC; these children accounted for 33.5% of total constipation spending, 70.3% of inpatient constipation spending, and 19.8% of emergency department (ED) constipation spending. Constipation prevalence was 11.0% for children with 1 CCC, 16.6% with 2 CCCs and 27.1% with >=3 CCCs. Conclusions: Although the majority of pediatric constipation treatment occurs in the outpatient setting, inpatient care accounts for a sizable percentage of spending. Children with CCCs have a higher prevalence of constipation and account for a disproportionate amount of constipation healthcare utilization and spending. (C) 2016 by European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition and North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology,

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Assessing the Colonic Microbiota in Children: Effects of Sample Site and Bowel Preparation.

Objectives: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) states are associated with gastrointestinal dysbiosis. Mucosal biopsy sampling, retrieving the bacterial community that most directly interacts with the host, is an invasive procedure, and we hypothesize may be sufficiently approximated by other sampling methods. We investigate the relatedness of samples obtained by different methods and the effects of bowel preparation on the gastrointestinal community in a paediatric population. Methods: We recruited a cohort of patients undergoing colonoscopy, collecting serial samples via differing methods (rectal swabs, biopsies and faecal matter/luminal contents) pre-bowel preparation, during colonoscopy and post-colonoscopy. Next generation sequencing was used to determine the structure of the microbial community. Results: The microbial community in luminal contents collected during colonoscopy was found to be more similar to that of mucosal biopsies than rectal swabs. Community traits of the mucosal biopsies could be used to segregate IBD patients from other patients, and the similarity of the communities in the luminal contents was sufficient for the segregation to be reproduced. Microbial communities sampled by rectal swabs and pre-bowel preparation faeces were less similar to mucosal biopsies. Bowel preparation was found to have no significant long term effects on the microbial community, despite the transient effects evident during colonoscopy. Conclusions: A clinically relevant description of the mucosal microbial community can be obtained via the non-invasive collection of luminal contents after bowel cleansing. Bowel preparation in a paediatric population results in no consistent sustained alterations to the gastrointestinal microbiota. (C) 2016 by European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition and North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology,

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Yoga Therapy for Abdominal Pain Related-Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Children. A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objectives: To compare effects of 10 weeks yoga therapy (YT) and standard medical care (SMC) on abdominal pain and quality of life (QoL) in children with abdominal pain related-functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP-FGIDs). Methods: Sixty-nine patients, aged 8-18 years, with AP-FGIDs, were randomized to SMC complemented with YT or SMC alone. YT is a mixture of yoga poses, meditation and relaxation exercises and was given once a week in group-sessions. SMC consisted of education, reassurance, dietary advice and fibers/mebeverine if necessary. Pain intensity (PIS; 0-5) and frequency (PFS; 0-4) were scored in a pain diary and QoL was measured with KIDSCREEN-27. Follow-up was twelve months. Treatment response was defined as >=50% reduction of weekly pain scores. Results: At 1 year follow-up, treatment response was accomplished in 58% of the YT group and 29% of the control group (p = 0.01), no significant differences for other timepoints were found. YT, and not SMC, resulted in a significant reduction of PIS (p

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Concomitant Fundoplication with Gastrostomy: A Two-State Comparison Showing Continued Use of Reflux Medications.

Objectives: We sought to determine if practice differences for fundoplication exist between two geographically distinct states, and to determine the reflux medication use pattern associated with concomitant fundoplication. Methods: A retrospective observational cohort study of children in Colorado (CO) and North Carolina (NC) insured by Medicaid from 2006-2008. Children who received a surgical gastrostomy during the study period were included, and our primary outcome measure was the performance of a concomitant gastric fundoplication. Thirty-day prescription fills for reflux medications were examined pre and post gastrostomy procedure. Results: We examined 969 surgical gastrostomy admission in both states over the three year study period (CO, n = 341 and NC, n = 628). Patients in each state had similar age (Median age, 6 months, p = 0.97). Use of pH probe (CO: 15%, NC: 11%) and diagnosis of reflux (CO: 84%, NC: 72%) differed in each state. Concomitant fundoplication was performed in 60% of patients in CO and 43% in North Carolina (p

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Optimizing patients undergoing surgery: a matter of 'eminence-based medicine'?.

No abstract available

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Updates in pediatric anesthesia.

No abstract available

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Screen time, sleep and overweight among low-income 8-12 year old youth

2016-04-12T23-16-42Z
Source: Journal of Behavioral Health
Emily Hill Guseman, Joey C Eisenmann, Heather Hayes Betz, Karin A Pfeiffer, Hye-Jin Paek.
This paper describes a cross-sectional study of the combined influence of sleep and screen time behaviors on the odds of overweight and obesity among low-income youth. One of those most notable strengths of this study is the significant proportion of our sample who identify as members of an ethnic minority, most notably Hispanic and African American (approximately 84% of the total sample). This improves upon previous studies that often report data on almost entirely white samples, who often also do not qualify as low-income. Thus, we feel that this study makes a substantial contribution to the literature in spite of the null findings.


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