Effects of collagen membranes enriched with in vitro-differentiated N1E-115 cells on rat sciatic nerve regeneration after end-to-end repair

Preventing falls and fall-related fractures in the elderly is an objective yet to be reached. There is increasing evidence that a supplementation of vitamin D and/or of calcium may reduce the fall and fracture rates. A vitamin D-calcium supplement appears to have a high potential due to its simple application and its low cost. However, published studies have shown conflicting results as some studies failed to show any effect, while others reported a significant decrease of falls and fractures. Through a 15-year literature overview, and after a brief reminder on mechanism of falls in older adults, we reported evidences for a vitamin D action on postural adaptations - i.e., muscles and central nervous system - which may explain the decreased fall and bone fracture rates and we underlined the reasons for differences and controversies between published data. Vitamin D supplementation should thus be integrated into primary and secondary fall prevention strategies in older adults.     

Addressing the imbalance: empowering older people in disaster response and preparedness

Deeny P., Vitale C.T., Spelman R. & Duggan S. (2010)   Addressing the imbalance: empowering older people in disaster response and preparedness. International Journal of Older People Nursing   5 , 77–80
doi: 10.1111/j.1748-3743.2009.00204.x
This paper explores the role of the nurse in empowering older people at all stages in the disaster cycle. Evidence points to the need to increase the level of consultation and inclusivity of older people on this topic. Caution is called for in relation to classifying older people as a vulnerable group in disasters without first recognising that older people are probably the richest resource within any culture when it comes to emergency planning and\or coping with disasters. Practical advice on how nurses can best assist older people is presented.     

Perceptions of older people on disaster response and preparedness

Duggan S., Deeny P., Spelman R. & Vitale C.T. (2010)   Perceptions of older people on disaster response and preparedness. International Journal of Older People Nursing 5 , 71–76
doi: 10.1111/j.1748-3743.2009.00203.x
Most disasters occur in developing countries but in the last decade due to the increasing threat of floods, air disasters and terrorist threat, disaster response and preparedness is a growing global concern. Due to an ageing population across the world, older people now constitute a significant proportion of those at risk from disasters. This paper reports on a qualitative study carried out in Sri Lanka and in the United States where a group of older people were asked about aspects of disaster response and preparedness. The group from Sri Lanka ( n  = 9) who had direct experience of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami were asked how they perceived international aid relief and a group of white Caucasians from East Coast USA ( n  = 8) were asked about disaster preparedness. Findings indicate that both groups had similar issues albeit that they were looking at different phases of the disaster cycle and from different cultural perspectives. Both groups identified issues related to, protecting the rights of the older person and preventing loss of independence in responding and preparing for a disaster, mistrust of government and access to resources and all expressed strong feelings of self-responsibility.     

Retroperitoneal sarcomas: A review of disease spectrum,radiological features,characterisation and management

Retroperitoneal sarcomas are a rare disease. The overall 5‐year survival rate for these lesions remains low, and surgical management offers the only option for effective treatment and potential for cure. Radiotherapy is increasingly being employed in addition to standard surgical treatment. Improvements in cross‐sectional imaging have also facilitated better characterisation of lesions, preoperative planning and long‐term follow‐up. This article reviews the current literature and documents the various types of retroperitoneal sarcomas with a particular approach to their imaging features. We also highlight the pathology, diagnostic methods and most current management of these tumours.