bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Catabolic changes of rat temporomandibular joint discs induced by unilateral anterior crossbite
Authors: Zhang Hong‐Yun , Xie Mian‐Jiao , Yang Hong‐Xu , Liu Xin , Ren Hao‐Tian , Zhang Mian , Lu Lei , Liu Xiao‐Dong , Zhang Jing , Wang Mei‐Qing 
Published: December 2018

SummaryBackgroundThe temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc plays a role in joint movement and in load absorbance and distribution. An experimental unilateral anterior crossbite (UAC) prosthesis induces mandibular condylar cartilage degeneration in rats. However, the changes in the articular disc are still unknown.ObjectiveTo describe changes in the TMJ discs of UAC rats.MethodsThe discs of fifty‐four Sprague‐Dawley rats, equally distributed into a UAC group and an age‐matched sham‐operated control group at 4, 12 and 20 weeks (n = 9), were evaluated by gross and histomorphological observation and by detection at the mRNA or protein expression levels of the markers related to the matrix elements.ResultsNo macro‐ or micro‐morphological differences were observed between groups. However, there were catabolic degradative changes at the molecular level in the UAC group, showing a significant reduction in the mRNA and/or protein expression levels of many molecules. The reduction became worse with time (P < 0.05). The reduced molecules included: (a) those related to the extracellular matrix, such as type I collagen, decorin and fibromodulin; (b) those related to chondrogenesis, such as type II collagen and aggrecan; and (c) those related to osteogenesis, such as alkaline phosphatase and runt‐related transcription factor 2. The mRNA expression of vascular endothelial growth factor did not change. In contrast, fibronectin, which can promote wound healing, and its N‐terminal fragment, which can induce cartilage degradation, were accumulated (P < 0.05).ConclusionTMJ discs were stimulated to catabolic changes by the aberrant dental occlusion and seemed to go to inanimate with time.
Investigation of the genetic diversity of Phytophthora capsici in China using a universal fluorescent labelling method
Authors: Chen Xiao‐Ren , Zhang Ye , Huang Shen‐Xin , Liu Ting‐Ting , Qiao Guang‐Hang 
Published: December 2018

AbstractPhytophthora capsici is an important oomycete pathogen threatening the vegetable production in China, but very little is known about its population structure. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the genetic diversity of 49 P. capsici isolates obtained from 2007 to 2014 at nine provincial locations in China. Isolates were assessed for mating type, metalaxyl resistance and simple sequence repeat (SSR) genotype. Mating‐type analyses of the isolates showed that both mating types were present in all of the sampled production regions, and the mating‐type frequency in the total Chinese population did not deviate significantly from a 1:1 ratio. Responses of isolates to the fungicide metalaxyl indicated the presence of intermediate resistance to metalaxyl among the field population. A universal fluorescent labelling method was adapted in this study to improve the efficiency of SSR genotyping. Microsatellite genotyping of the isolates using seven SSR markers revealed 44 unique multilocus genotypes. Genetic analyses indicated the existence of two genetic clusters within Chinese P. capsici collection. Clonal reproduction may play a more prominent role in Yunnan Province, but non‐existence of repeated genotypes and existence of both mating types throughout all regions suggest outcrossing and sexual recombination likely play an important role in the overall epidemiology in China. Future studies would include expanded scale sampling at single regions over multiple years to better define the genetic diversity of P. capsici in China.
Assertive Community Treatment for People With Mild Intellectual Disability or Borderline Intellectual Functioning and Mental Health Problems or Challenging Behavior: State of the Art and Implementation in the Netherlands
Authors: Neijmeijer Laura J. , Didden Robert , Nijman Henk L. I. , Kroon Hans 
Published: December 2018

AbstractIndividuals with mild intellectual disabilities (MID) or borderline intellectual functioning (BIF) and mental health problems or challenging behavior are difficult to reach by mainstream healthcare facilities and support organizations and frequently avoid the care they need. To improve the care for this client group in the Netherlands, the (Flexible) Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) model—originally developed for people with severe mental illness—was adapted and implemented by five organizations specialized in the care for people with MID/BIF and mental health problems or challenging behavior. After an introduction of the original ACT model and a description of the international state of the art of ACT for people with (M)ID/BIF, this paper describes the (Flexible) ACT‐MID/BIF model as developed and implemented in the Netherlands. Professionals' and clients' experiences with this new type of care are reported as well. Implications for clinical practice, policy and research are discussed.
Promoting Independence of People with Intellectual Disabilities: A Focus Group Study Perspectives from People with Intellectual Disabilities, Legal Representatives, and Support Staff
Authors: Sandjojo Janice , Gebhardt Winifred A. , Zedlitz Aglaia M.E.E. , Hoekman Joop , den Haan Jeanet A. , Evers Andrea W.M. 
Published: December 2018

AbstractPeople with intellectual disabilities (ID) commonly struggle with managing their affairs, while they consider it important to be independent. This study aimed to gain insight into the perspectives of people with ID, legal representatives, and support staff on promoting independence in this population. Two focus groups were conducted with people with ID (n = 7), two with legal representatives (n = 13), and three with support staff (n = 17). Topics included the meaning of independence, the current level and needs of people with ID regarding their independence, and what they perceived as barriers and requirements when wanting to promote independence in this group. Possible outcomes of a greater independence of people with ID were also discussed. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed qualitatively with a general inductive approach. According to the respondents, people with ID require support from others, but most want to be more independent. Various barriers are experienced when trying to promote independence. These concern barriers at the level of support staff (e.g., lack of time), family (e.g., taking over tasks), and of the persons with ID themselves (e.g., emotional difficulties). When promoting independence in this population, more support and time seem necessary, as well as a clear, step‐by‐step tailored approach and good communication between all parties involved. Last, several advantages (e.g., greater self‐worth) and risks (e.g., overestimation by others, greater exposure to hazards) were proposed that could result from a greater independence of people with ID. As this study showed that people with ID generally want to become more independent. This stresses the need for the development of interventions, which could benefit from the findings from this study.
Evaluating Health Visitors' Existing Knowledge of Down Syndrome and the Effect of a Training Workshop
Authors: Mengoni Silvana E. , Redman Sandra 
Published: December 2018

AbstractChildren with Down syndrome are at an increased risk of health and development issues in early childhood, therefore monitoring their development and identifying health conditions as early as possible is critical. Health professionals may not always have the training and knowledge to effectively support families of children with disabilities, including Down syndrome. In the UK, health visitors conduct health and development reviews for children under 5 years, therefore they have a key role to play in monitoring and identifying health issues in young children with Down syndrome. However there has been no research on health visitors' knowledge and training needs regarding Down syndrome. This study aimed to assess health visitors' existing knowledge of Down syndrome and evaluate a pilot Down syndrome training session for health visitors. Twenty‐six health visitors from two NHS Trusts in England participated in 1 of 5 group training workshops. Pretraining and posttraining questionnaires assessed knowledge about Down syndrome, and feedback on the training session. Knowledge about Down syndrome was low prior to the training and increased significantly following the training session. Health visitors rated the training workshop very highly and would recommend it to a colleague. Health visitors identified a need for training to enable them to increase their knowledge about Down syndrome and better support families. In summary, a pilot training session about Down syndrome received positive feedback from health visitors, and led to improvements in knowledge and understanding about Down syndrome. This has the potential to improve health outcomes for children with Down syndrome.
Quality of Life Is to Experience Adult Social Status
Authors: Umb Carlsson Õie , Adolfsson Päivi 
Published: December 2018

AbstractQuality of life (QoL) has become an important outcome in evaluations of services and support for people with intellectual disabilities (ID). Many people with ID request more say and want to be involved in the development of services and support provision. The original Uppsala QoL (UQoL) model consists of a general essence and hierarchically ordered themes and describes QoL from the perspective of people with ID through individual interviews. The aim of the present study is to examine the UQoL regarding its inherent component parts and to explore the interrelationship between them. The study contributes to the understanding of the concept of QoL from the perspective of people with ID. Focus group interviews were conducted with people with mild and moderate ID. The results indicate that QoL is to experience well‐being. The key component of QoL is to experience adult social status. which is determined by whether the individual experiences having control of their life, experiences a sense of personal safety and feels social belonging. In concordance with the original model, the UQoL2 is mainly made up of components equivalent to those frequently reported in the QoL literature. Nevertheless, some differences require attention. The primary component, adult social status, has not previously been highlighted in the QoL literature. The point of departure in the UQoL model is the users´ perspective rather than the user perspective as perceived by professionals or researchers. The UQoL is not primarily linked to the quality of service provision, but to peoples' daily life. A revised version of the original UQoL is suggested. Unlike the original model, other than the fact which that adult social status is superior, the components are not hierarchically organized, rather the interrelation between them is emphasized.
Clinical findings and outcome of dogs with unilateral masticatory muscle atrophy
Authors: Milodowski Emily Jayne , Amengual‐Batle Pablo , Beltran Elsa , Gutierrez‐Quintana Rodrigo , De Decker Steven 
Published: December 2018

BackgroundLittle is known about the spectrum of underlying disorders in dogs with unilateral masticatory muscle (MM) atrophy.ObjectivesTo evaluate the clinical presentation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, and outcome of dogs with unilateral MM atrophy.AnimalsSixty‐three client‐owned dogs.MethodsThe medical database was retrospectively reviewed for dogs that underwent MRI for evaluation of unilateral MM atrophy. Imaging studies were reviewed and follow‐up information was obtained from telephone interviews.ResultsPresumptive trigeminal nerve sheath tumor (pTNST) was diagnosed in 30 dogs (47.6%); survival time varied from 1 day to 21 months (median, 5 months). Other extra‐axial mass lesions were observed in 13 dogs (20.6%); survival time varied from 6 days to 25 months (median, 2.5 months). In 18 dogs (28.6%), no abnormalities were observed on MRI; neurological signs only progressed in 1 dog. Diagnosis had a significant influence on the type of neurological abnormalities, with additional neurological deficits observed in most dogs with pTNST and in all dogs with other extra‐axial mass lesions. Diagnosis had a significant effect on euthanasia at the time of diagnosis and likelihood of neurological deterioration. Dogs with mass lesions were more likely to be euthanized or experience neurological deterioration, whereas these outcomes occurred less often in dogs in which no causative lesion could be identified.Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceTrigeminal nerve sheath tumors should not be considered the only cause of unilateral MM atrophy. Our results illustrate the importance of performing a neurological examination and MRI when evaluating dogs with unilateral MM atrophy.
Mild dehydration in dyspeptic athletes is able to increase gastrointestinal symptoms: Protective effects of an appropriate hydration
Authors: Zito Francesco Paolo , Gala Antonietta , Genovese Daniela , Vozzella Letizia , Polese Barbara , Cassarano Sara , Cargiolli Martina , Andreozzi Paolo , Gelzo Monica , Sarnelli Giovanni , Frisso Giulia , Cuomo Rosario 
Published: December 2018

AbstractBackgroundWater balance influences gastrointestinal (GI) activity. Our aim was to evaluate how dehydration and rehydration with different types of water are able to affect GI activity in healthy and dyspeptic athletes.MethodsTwenty non‐competitive athletes, respectively 10 healthy and 10 dyspeptic subjects, were enrolled. All subjects underwent three test sessions (0, A, B) of 6 hours. Dehydration was achieved with a walking/jogging exercise test on a treadmill. After exercising, 500 mL of calcium‐bicarbonate (Test A) or soft water (Test B) were administered, while no rehydration was provided during Test 0; thereafter, all subjects consumed a light lunch. GI symptoms were evaluated during each test and an electrocardiogram (ECG) Holter recording was performed at the end of the exercise.Key ResultsDyspeptic subjects exhibited higher overall symptoms during Test 0 (VAS: 30.8 ± 0.8 mm) compared to Test A (18.4 ± 1.1, P < 0.001) and Test B (24.4 ± 1.3, P < 0.001). However, analyzing GI symptoms, only subjects receiving calcium‐bicarbonate water (Test A) showed significantly lower symptomatic scores compared to Test 0 or Test B. Moreover, heart rate variability analyses revealed that only in Test A dyspeptic patients exhibit a trend to a decrease in the post‐prandial low/high frequency (LF/HF) ratio, similarly to healthy subjects, while in Test 0 and Test B, post‐prandial LF/HF ratio was increased compared to the pre‐prandial phase.Conclusions and InferencesOur results show that mild dehydration in dyspeptic athletes is able to increase GI symptoms but an adequate rehydration, with calcium‐bicarbonate water, is able to improve post‐exercise disturbances restoring sympathovagal imbalance.
Presidential Address 2011: Autonomic modes of control and health
Authors: Berntson Gary G. 
Published: December 2018

AbstractUnderstanding psychosomatic relations, and their implications for heath, is importantly dependent on our conceptual and measurement models. The historical view of reciprocal control of the autonomic branches is applicable in some contexts, but not others. Control of the autonomic branches can vary reciprocally, independently, and even coactively. Assessment of sympathovagal balance, based on a reciprocal model of regulation of the autonomic branches, may have applications in orthostatic contexts and in insulin resistance in diabetes. However, it does not adequately capture the pattern of autonomic control that is relevant for myocardial infarction (MI; in humans) and experimental cardiac arrest (in mice). A measure of sympathovagal balance (cardiac autonomic balance) was predictive and informative of the autonomic contributions to diabetes but was blind to autonomic contributions to cardiac arrest and its sequelae. However, a metric designed to capture the coactivity dimension of cardiac autonomic regulation (CAR) was predictive of MI and its sequelae. Both human and animal model studies revealed that low CAR (low sympathetic and especially low parasympathetic control) predicted the occurrence of MI and the neuroinflammatory consequences of cardiac arrest. These effects were importantly modulated by social support in both humans and animals, via an apparent oxytocinergic pathway that impacts parasympathetic cardiac control and CAR, and thus neuroinflammation. Results indicate the importance of a physiologically meaningful model of autonomic control in understanding health implications of the modes of autonomic control.
A Conceptual Model for Pricing Health and Life Insurance Using Wearable Technology
Authors: McCrea Michael , Farrell Mark 
Published: December 2018

AbstractA health risk score was created to investigate the possibility of using data provided by wearable technology to help predict overall health and mortality, with the ultimate goal of using this score to enhance the pricing of health or life insurance. Subjects were categorized into low‐, increased‐, and high‐risk groups, and after results were adjusted for age and sex, Cox proportional hazards analysis revealed a high level of significance when predicting mortality. High‐risk subjects were shown to have a hazard ratio of 2.1 relative to those in the low‐risk group, which can be interpreted as an equivalent increase in age of 7.8 years. Our findings help to demonstrate the predictive capabilities of potential new rating factors, measured via wearables, that could feasibly be incorporated into actuarial insurance pricing models. The model also provides an initial step for insurers to begin to consider the incorporation of continuous wearable data into current risk models. With this in mind, an emphasis is placed on the limitations of the study in order to highlight the areas that must be addressed before incorporating aspects of this model within current pricing models.
Topic Modelling for Medical Prescription Fraud and Abuse Detection
Authors: Zafari Babak , Ekin Tahir 
Published: December 2018

SummaryMedical prescription fraud and abuse have been a pressing issue in the USA, resulting in large financial losses and adverse effects on human health. The size and complexity of the healthcare systems as well as the cost of medical audits make use of statistical methods necessary to generate investigative leads in prescription audits. We analyse prescriber–drug associations by utilizing the real world Medicare part D prescription data from New Hampshire. In particular, we propose the use of topic models to group drugs with respect to the billing patterns and exhibit the potential aberrant behaviours while using medical specialities as a covariate. The prescription patterns of the providers are retrieved with an emphasis on opioids and aggregated into distance-based measures which are visualized by concentration functions. This output can enable healthcare auditors to identify leads for audits of providers prescribing medically unnecessary drugs.
Suicides between 2010 and 2014 in the German Armed Forces—Comparison of Suicide Registry Data and a German Armed Forces Survey
Authors: Willmund Gerd‐Dieter , Heß Julius , Helms Christian , Wertenauer Florian , Seiffert Anja , Nolte Almut , Wesemann Ulrich , Zimmermann Peter L. 
Published: December 2018

BackgroundThe last 10 years have seen an increase in the number of suicides in the US Armed Forces. Accordingly, the topic of suicides in the German military has received a lot of attention in media and science alike.MethodsThis study retrospectively examined all suicides (N = 107) committed by active, nonretired German military personnel from 2010 to the end of 2014, analyzing archived medical records. In a second step, these data were compared to a representative German Armed Forces survey conducted in 2012 (N = 1,549).ResultsThe following risk groups for suicide were identified: male (OR = 9.6), single (OR = 7.8), aged over 45 years (OR = 4.0), short period of service (<2 years; OR = 2.7), and low level of education (OR = 2.2). Surprisingly, military personnel with little experience in deployments abroad (<2 missions) showed double the risk (OR = 2.0) compared to those who had been deployed more than once.DiscussionMultiple robustness checks show that being single, aged over 45 years, and having obtained a low level of education exhibit the most robust effects on suicide risk.ConclusionEfforts should be made to develop and evaluate risk group‐focused prevention programs. We conclude, that further studies should be initiated to show differences of risk groups between lethal and nonlethal suicidal behavior.
Editorial: Medicines pricing, access and safety in Morocco
Authors: Tuck Chloe , Maamri Abdellatif , Chan Amy Hai Yan , Babar Zaheer‐Ud‐Din 
Published: December 2018

SummaryUnregulated supply of medicines compromises quality assurance and risks patient safety. The emergence of illegal medicines trafficking in Morocco presents a major health threat, which highlights the need for region‐wide alignment in policies to drive stringent regulatory enforcement and robust health systems that ensure population‐ wide access to safe medicines. Herein, we draw on insights from a situational analysis in Morocco, as a lower‐ middle income setting, to present access to medicines through regulated supply procedures as a vital prerequisite for quality assurance and patient safety.
The value of the post‐thaw CD34+ count with and without DMSO removal in the setting of autologous stem cell transplantation
Authors: Rohner Nicolai , Passweg Jakob R. , Tsakiris Dimitrios A. , Halter Jörg P. , Heim Dominik , Buser Andreas S. , Infanti Laura , Holbro Andreas 
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUNDCD34+ cell count correlates with engraftment potency after autologous stem cell transplantation. Assessment of CD34+ mainly occurs after apheresis and before cryopreservation with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The influence of postthaw CD34+ cell numbers over time to engraftment is not well studied, and determination of postthaw CD34+ cell counts is challenging for a variety of reasons. The aim of this retrospective study was to systematically assess the value of postthaw CD34+ cell counts in autologous grafts with and without DMSO removal.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSBetween January 2008 and December 2015, 236 adult patients underwent a total of 292 autologous stem cell transplantations. Median age at transplantation was 56 years, and the main indication was multiple myeloma (60%). DMSO removal was done in 96 grafts (33%), either by centrifugation or by Sepax method.RESULTSPatients receiving grafts containing DMSO showed a significantly faster platelet (p = 0.02) and RBC (p = 0.001) engraftment. DMSO removal was not associated with fewer infusion‐related adverse events. We observed a good correlation between CD34+ cell count after apheresis and CD34+ cell count after thawing/washing (r = 0.931). Ninety grafts (31%) showed a significant loss of viable CD34+ cells, which translated into a delayed engraftment.CONCLUSIONDMSO removal was associated with delayed platelet and RBC engraftment without preventing adverse events. CD34+ cell enumeration after thawing remains difficult to perform, but grafts showing higher cell loss during cryopreservation and thawing are associated with slower engraftment. Prospective studies on the role of DMSO removal and postthaw CD34+ enumeration using defined protocols are needed.