bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Fast Measurement of Asphaltene Onset Pressure
Authors: Sullivan M. , Smythe E. J. , Fukagawa S. , Harrison C. , Dumont Hadrien , Borman C. 
Published: January 2020

SummaryA technique to quickly determine the asphaltene onset pressure (AOP) of a crude oil from low-volume, nonequilibrium measurements is presented. The pressure at which the optical signature indicative of asphaltene aggregation is first detected in recombined crude oils is found to decrease strongly with the rate of depressurization and can be well-described with a modified power law. This technique exploits this rate dependence and uses two separate decompressions at highly disparate depressurization rates to determine the AOP. Benchmarking with this technique was performed with recombined crude oils that were characterized with conventional pressure/volume/temperature analysis. Using this technique, measurements enabling the determination of the AOP of a live crude oil can be obtained in minutes with a nominal uncertainty of 500 psi. This is a significant reduction in time compared with the multihour process used for conventional equilibrium-based measurements. Onset-time data from these studies are consistent with conventional aggregation theories, but there is insufficient range to differentiate between reaction-limited aggregation (RLA) and diffusion-limited aggregation (DLA).
Head and Neck cancer patients’ preferences for individualized prognostic information: a focus group study.
Authors: Hoesseini Arta , Dronkers Emilie A. C. , Sewnaik Aniel , Hardillo Jose A. U. , de Jong Robert J. Baatenburg , Offerman Marinella P. J. 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Head and Neck cancer (HNC) is characterized by significant mortality and morbidity. Treatment is often invasive and interferes with vital functions, resulting in a delicate balance between survival benefit and deterioration in quality of life (QoL). Therefore, including prognostic information during patient counseling can be of great importance. The first aim of this study was to explore HNC patients’ preferences for receiving prognostic information: both qualitative (general terms like ‘’curable cancer’’), and quantitative information (numbers, percentages). The second aim of this study was to explore patients’ views on ‘’OncologIQ’’, a prognostic model developed to estimate overall survival in newly diagnosed HNC patients. Methods: We conducted a single center qualitative study by organizing five focus groups with HNC patients (n= 21) and their caregivers (n= 19), categorized in: 1) small laryngeal carcinomas treated with radiotherapy or laser, 2) extensive oral cavity procedures, 3) total laryngectomy, 4) chemoradiation, 5) other treatments. The patients’ perspective was the main focus. The interview guide consisted of two main topics: life-expectancy and the prognostic model OncologIQ. All focus groups were recorded, transcribed and coded. Themes were derived using content analysis. Results: While all patients considered it somewhat to very important to receive information about their life-expectancy, only some of them wanted to receive quantitative information. Disclosing qualitative prognostic information like ‘’the cancer is curable’’ would give enough reassurance for most patients. Overall, patients thought life-expectancy should not be discussed shortly after cancer diagnosis disclosure, as a certain time is needed to process the first shock. They had a stronger preference for receiving prognostic information in case of a poor prognosis. Prognostic information should also include information on the expected QoL. The pie chart was the most preferred chart for discussing survival rates. Conclusions: The participants found it important to receive information on their life-expectancy. While most patients were enough reassured by qualitative prognostic information, some wanted to receive quantitative information like OncologIQs’ estimates. A tailor-made approach is necessary to provide customized prognostic information. A clinical practice guideline was developed to support professionals in sharing prognostic information, aiming to improve shared decision making and patient-centered care.
Effects of an mHealth voice message service (mMitra) on maternal health knowledge and practices of low-income women in India: findings from a pseudo-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Murthy Nirmala , Chandrasekharan Subhashini , Muthuperumal Prakash , Ganju Aakash , Peter Joanne , Kaonga Nadi , Mechael Patricia 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Mobile Health (mHealth) is becoming an important tool to improve health outcomes in maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH). Studies of mHealth interventions, have demonstrated their effectiveness in improving uptake of recommended maternal services such as antenatal visits. However, evidence of impact on maternal health outcomes is still limited. Methods: A pseudo-randomized controlled trial was conducted to assess the impact of a voice-message based maternal intervention on maternal health knowledge, attitudes, practices and outcomes over time: Pregnancy (baseline/Time 1); Post-partum (Time 2) and when the infant turned one year old (Time 3). Women assigned to the mMitra intervention arm received gestational age- and stage-based educational voice messages via mobile phone in Hindi and Marathi, while those assigned to the control group did not. Both groups received standard care. Results: 2,016 women were enrolled. Interviews were conducted with 1,516 women in the intervention group and 500 women in the control group at baseline and post-partum. The intervention group performed significantly better than controls on four maternal health practice indicators: receiving the tetanus toxoid injection (OR: 1.6, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.05-2.4, p=0.028), consulting a doctor if spotting or bleeding (OR: 1.72, 95%CI: 1.07-2.75, p=0.025), saving money for delivery expenses (OR: 1.79, 95%CI: 1.38-2.33, p=0.0001), and delivering in hospital (OR: 2.5, 95%CI: 1.49-4.35, p=0.001). The control group performed significantly better than the intervention group on two practice indicators: resting regularly during pregnancy (OR: 0.7, 95%CI: 0.54-0.88, p=0.002) and having at-home deliveries attended by a skilled birth attendant (OR: 0.46, 95%CI: 0.23-0.91, p=0.027). Both groups’ knowledge improved from Time 1 to Time 2. One knowledge indicator, seeking medical care during pregnancy, was statistically increased in the intervention group compared to controls. Anemia status at or near the time of delivery was unable to be assessed due to missing maternal health cards. Conclusions: This study provides evidence that mobile voice messages providing tailored and timed information about pregnancy can positively impact maternal health care practices proven to improve maternal health outcomes. Additional research is needed to assess whether voice messaging can motivate behavior change better than text messaging, particularly in low literacy settings.
Efficacy and tolerability of DAAs in HCV-monoinfected and HCV/HIV-coinfected patients with psychiatric disorders
Authors: de Gennaro Nicolò , Diella Lucia , Monno Laura , Angarano Gioacchino , Milella Michele , Saracino Annalisa 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background few data are available regarding use of direct antiviral agents (DAAs) for chronic hepatitis C in psychiatric patients. The aim of the study is to assess safety and outcome of DAAs in patients with psychiatric comorbidities. Methods this retrospective, observational, single-centre study enrolled patients treated with psychiatric drugs who initiated DAAs between 2015-2018. Patients were classified into two groups: A (on anxiolitycs/antidepressant) and B (on antipsychotics). Week-12 sustained virological response (SVR-12) and adverse events (AEs) were evaluated. Results 144 patients were included (A:101; B:43). Patients were 49.3% males, mean age 60 years (SD±13.5); 31.9% cirrhotic; 125 (86.8%) HCV-monoinfected and 19 (13.2%) HIV/HCV-coinfected. Twenty patients (13.8%) required a change of psychiatric therapy before DAAs-initiation. Overall, SVR-12 was achieved in 88.2% of subjects in intention-to-treat(ITT)-analysis. Lower SVR rates were observed in group B vs A (79% vs 92%, p=0.045) and in those changing psychiatric drugs vs others (30% vs 8%, p=0.015). At least one AE occurred in 60 patients (41.6%), including 10 SAEs, leading to 3 discontinuations. AEs were more frequently reported in group A (p=0.015). Conclusions the study confirms effectiveness and safety of DAA-based treatment also in this special population, even if a careful evaluation of history and drug-drug interactions is warranted.
BRAF mutant colorectal cancer: ErbB2 expression levels as predictive factor for the response to combined BRAFi/ErbB1 inhibitors
Authors: Miele Evelina , Abballe Luana , Spinelli Gian Paolo , Besharat Zein Mersini , Catanzaro Giuseppina , Chiacchiarini Martina , Vacca Alessandra , Po Agnese , Capalbo Carlo , Ferretti Elisabetta 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous disease with a complex biology and has a wide number of altered genes such as BRAF, KRAS and PIK3CA. Advances with new-targeted therapies have been achieved and available treating options have prolonged patient’s survival. However, BRAF-mutated CRC patients remain unresponsive to available therapies with RAF inhibitors (RAFi) alone or combined with ErbB inhibitors (ErbBi). These unmet needs require further exploitation of oncogenic signaling in order to set up individualized treatments. Methods: To this end, we tested the efficacy of single agent or combined treatments using the BRAFi, vemurafenib and two different ErbBi: panitumumab and afatinib in CRC cells characterized by different molecular phenotypes. Results: Combination strategies with BRAFi and ErbBi achieved a better response in BRAF V600E mutated cells expressing high levels of ErbB2. Conclusions: In conclusion our findings allow us to indicate that high ErbB2 expression levels is a positive predictor factor since those patients are responsive to BRAFi/ErbBi combination.
End-of-life care for people with advanced dementia and pain: A qualitative study in Swedish nursing homes
Authors: Lundin Emma , Godskesen Tove 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background Of the Swedish people with advanced dementia, the majority die in nursing homes. Unresolved pain can occur in people with a terminal illness such as dementia. However, pain management in people with advanced dementia is often suboptimal and inadequate, with fewer palliative care interventions than offered to cancer patients. Although they are largely responsible for the care of these people, few studies have addressed the experiences of registered nurses in this respect. Therefore the aim of this study was to describe the experiences of nurses in caring for people with advanced dementia and pain at the end of life. Methods The study had a descriptive explorative design. Individual qualitative, semi-structured interviews were carried out with thirteen nurses from twelve nursing homes in Sweden. The results were analysed using thematic content analysis. Results The nurses described communicative, relational and organisational challenges. One major issue involved difficulties in communicating with the person with advanced dementia, resulting in uncertain pain assessment. Other difficulties involved the differentiation of pain from anxiety, the balance of benefits and risks with morphine administration, and the creation of good relationships with healthcare personnel and the persons’ relatives. Relatives can greatly affect the assessment and management of pain, both because of their ability to interpret pain behaviour and by questioning the care given. Good pain management was facilitated by good communication and relationships with healthcare staff and relatives, extensive professional nursing experience, and already knowing the person with advanced dementia. Conclusions This study highlights the need for nursing homes to employ specialist nurses who have been trained in the appropriate knowledge and skills to deal with the challenges of end-of-life care for people with advanced dementia and pain. Additionally, there should be resources and strategies available for providing information to family members and for involving them in the decision-making process, as they are often unfamiliar with the multitude of considerations involved in decisions such as whether to administer morphine or not.
Substance P participates in periodontitis by upregulating HIF-1α and RANKL/OPG ratio
Authors: Yan Kaixian , Lin Qin , Tang Kailiang , Liu Shuang , Du Yi , Yu Xijiao , Li Shu 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background Both substance P and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) are involved in inflammation and angiogenesis. However, the relationship between substance P and HIF-1α in rat periodontitis is still unknown. Methods Ligation‐induced rat periodontitis was established to observe the distribution and expression of substance P and HIF-1α by immunohistochemistry. Rat gingival fibroblasts were cultured and stimulated with Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Recombinant substance P was applied to elaborate the relationship between substance P and HIF-1α in gingival fibroblasts in vitro. Primary mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs) were isolated and cultured to observe the effect of substance P on receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclastogenesis by TRAP staining. Western blotting was used to investigate the expression of HIF-1α, osteoprotegerin (OPG) and RANKL. Results Rat experimental periodontitis was successfully established six weeks after ligation. Gingival inflammatory infiltration and alveolar bone loss were observed. Positive expression of substance P was found in the infiltrating cells. Higher HIF-1α levels were observed in periodontitis compared to that of normal tissues. Substance P upregulated the level of HIF-1α in gingival fibroblasts with or without 1 µg/ml LPS in vitro (*P<0.05). Substance P upregulated the expression of HIF-1α in RANKL-stimulated BMMs in vitro. Substance P also increased the RANKL/OPG ratio in gingival fibroblasts (*P<0.05). Both 10 nM and 50 nM substance P promoted RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation (*P<0.05). Conclusion Substance P participates in periodontitis by upregulating HIF-1α and the RANKL/OPG ratio.
The construction of a conceptual framework explaining the relation between barriers to change of management of neuropsychiatric symptoms in nursing homes: a qualitative study using focus groups
Authors: Teunenbroek Charlotte Frederike van , Verhagen Kim , Smalbrugge Martin , Persoon Anke , Zuidema Sytse U. , Gerritsen Debby L. 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background. Several efforts have been made to change management of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in nursing homes, however only few were successful. Numerous barriers to change in healthcare were identified, yet only one conceptual model is known to study their interrelationships . Unfortunately, this model does not discuss specific barriers encountered in nursing home practice. The aim of this study is to explore perceived barriers to change in the management of NPS in nursing homes and to construct a conceptual framework providing insight into the relative importance and interrelationships of these barriers when improving quality of care.
Methods. Four focus groups were conducted in different dementia special care units of one Dutch nursing home. Participants were either nursing staff, treatment staff or relatives of residents. Qualitative thematic analysis was conducted according to the five phases defined by Braun & Clarke. Finally, a conceptual framework showing the interrelations of barrier-themes was constructed using text fragments of the focus groups.
Results. We constructed a conceptual framework consisting of eight themes of barriers explaining the extent to which change in NPS-management can be achieved: 'organizational barriers', 'personal barriers', 'deficiency of staff knowledge', 'suboptimal communication', 'inadequate (multidisciplinary) collaboration', 'disorganization of processes', 'reactive coping' and 'differences in perception'. Addressing 'organizational barriers' and 'deficiency of staff knowledge' is a precondition for change. 'Suboptimal communication' and 'inadequate (multidisciplinary) collaboration' play a key role in the extent of change achieved via the themes 'differences in perception' and 'disorganization of processes'. Furthermore, 'personal barriers' influence all themes - except 'organizational barriers' - and may cause 'reactive coping', which in turn may lead to 'difficulties to structure processes'.
Conclusions. A conceptual framework was created explaining the relationships between barriers towards achieving change focused on improving management of NPS in nursing homes. After this framework has been confirmed and refined in additional research, it can be used to study the interrelatedness of barriers to change, and to determine the importance of addressing them for achieving change in the provided care.
Current status of the clinical use of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors: a questionnaire survey of oncologists in China
Authors: Zhang Bicheng , Song Yuxiao , Fu Yang , Zhu Bo , Wang Baocheng , Wang Jun 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Objective : The purpose of the present study was to obtain information on the use of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors by oncologists in China through a national questionnaire survey.
Materials and Methods : Between the 7th and 25th of July in 2019, a questionnaire designed by the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology Immuno-Oncology (CSCO IO) Committee on the current status of the use of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors was distributed online and offline to cancer-related medical departments in thirty different provinces and autonomous regions of China. The national questionnaire consisted of three sections as follows: general information, current status of the application of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in the clinic, and oncologists’ concerns regarding utilization.
Results : The valid response rate of the current status survey was 76.3%. The proportion of senior doctors (physician-in-charge or a more superior position for more than three years) among the respondents was relatively high (67.0% in 588). Ofthe respondents,59.2% had prescribed PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors during clinical treatment, and the most frequent reason for not prescribing these inhibitors was the choice "do not understand the mechanism and the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors". In addition, 77.9% of the prescribers used the medications in an off-labelsituation, and the most important motivation for this use was the fact that "there were indications abroad but not domestically". In addition, 77.9% of the prescribers believed that “immunotherapy-related adverse effects could be controlled or intervened through follow-up management”. The prescribers were mostly concerned about "how to identify pseudoprogression and hyperprogression" and "immunity-related adverse effects management".
Conclusion : The present study highlights the current status of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in China. Increasing numbers ofmedical oncologists are interested in PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, andthey are in need of immunotherapyeducation.
Augmented Exercise in Hospital Improves Physical Performance and Reduces Negative Post Hospitalization Events: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: McCullagh Ruth , O'Connell Eimear , O'Meara Sarah , Dahly Darren , O'Reilly Eilis , O'Connor Kieran , Horgan N.Frances , Timmons Suzanne 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: To measure the effects of an augmented prescribed exercise programme versus usual care, on physical performance, quality of life and healthcare utilisation for frail older medical patients in the acute setting.

Methods: This was a parallel single-blinded randomised controlled trial. Within two days of admission, older medical inpatients with an anticipated length of stay ≥3 days, needing assistance/aid to walk, were blindly randomly allocated to the intervention or control group. Until discharge, both groups received twice daily, Monday-to-Friday half-hour assisted exercises, assisted by a staff physiotherapist. The intervention group completed tailored strengthening and balance exercises; the control group performed stretching and relaxation exercises. Length of stay was the primary outcome measure. Blindly assessed secondary measures included readmissions within three months, and physical performance (Short Physical Performance Battery) and quality of life (EuroQOL-5D-5L) at discharge and at three months. Time-to-event analysis was used to measure differences in length of stay, and regression models were used to measure differences in physical performance, quality of life, adverse events (falls, deaths) and negative events (prolonged hospitalisation, institutionalisation).

Results: Of the 199 patients allocated, 190 patients’ (aged 80 ±7.5 years) data were analysed. Groups were comparable at baseline. In intention-to-treat analysis, length of stay did not differ between groups (HR 1.09 (95% CI, 0.77-1.56) p=0.6). Physical performance was better in the intervention group at discharge (difference 0.88 (95% CI, 0.20-1.57) p=0.01), but lost at follow-up (difference 0.45 (95% CI, -0.43 – 1.33) p=0.3). An improvement in quality of life was detected at follow-up in the intervention group (difference 0.28 (95% CI, 0.9 – 0.47) p=0.004). Overall, fewer negative events occurred in the intervention group (OR 0.46 (95% CI 0.23 – 0.92) p=0.03).

Conclusion: Improvements in physical performance, quality of life and fewer negative events suggest that this intervention is of value to frail medical inpatients. Its effect on length of stay remains unclear.
Dental Anxiety and Fear among a University Population in a Sample from Yemen
Authors: Madfa Ahmed A. , Al-Zubaidi Saad M. , Shibam Ahmed H. , Al-ansi Waled A. , AL-Beshari Lamis A. , Al-Haj Arwa M. , AL-Jawfi Khaled A. 
Published: January 2020

Abstract
Background: Many patients and clinicians consider dental fear to be a major challenge. Knowledge about dental students’ own experiences with dental anxiety is very important. The present study, therefore, aimed to examine the levels of dental anxiety and fear among students in relation to their field of study and gender. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 720 (360 women and 360 men) recruited from the College of Dentistry and the College of the Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Science and Technology in Sana'a, Yemen. Corah’s Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS) and Dental Fear Survey (DFS) were used to measure anxiety and fear among the study population. Spearman's correlation was applied to analyse the relationships among the anxiety measurements and the relationship between the DAS and DFS tests. Chi-square tests and linear regression analyses were applied to analyse the associations between dental anxiety or fear and contextual variables. Results: Out of the 720 students enrolled, 713 students (354 men and 359 women) completed and returned the questionnaire, yielding a response rate of 99.03%. The associations among dental anxiety measurements and the DAS and DFS was statistically significant ( p < 0.01). Students from the dental colleges had less anxiety and fear than did those from the humanities and social sciences college ( p < 0.05). Men were less anxious and fearful than women ( p < 0.05). Dental anxiety and fear were more associated with women than were other contextual variables [for fear (OR = 1.14, p = 0.001); for anxiety (OR = 1.90, p = 0.001)]. Conclusions: Dental anxiety was found to be related to dental fear. Women were more anxious and fearful than men. Dental students were less anxious and fearful than those from the humanities and social sciences college. A lack of suitable dental health education may result in higher levels of anxiety and fear among students from non-dental colleges in Yemen.