bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of oral bioavailability of magnolol by encapsulation in mixed micelles containing pluronic F127 and L61
Authors: Shen Hongxue , Liu Sheng , Ding Pinggang , Wang Lulu , Ju Jianming , Liang Guohui 
Published: February 2018

Abstract

Objectives
We aimed to prepare novel magnolol-loaded mixed micelles (MAG-M) by pluronic F127 and L61 to overcome the challenges of magnolol's poor solubility and then further improve its oral bioavailability.

Methods
Magnolol-loaded mixed micelles containing pluronic F127 and L61 were prepared by an organic solvent evaporation method. Physicochemical, transport experiment across Caco-2 cell monolayers and pharmacokinetic studies were performed to characterize MAG-M and to determine the final improvement of the oral bioavailability.

Key findings
The MAG-M solution was transparent and colourless with average size, polydispersity index and zeta potential of 228.0 ± 2.1 nm, 0.298 ± 0.012 and −0.89 ± 0.02 mV. The micelle solution has a higher EE% and DL% of 81.57 ± 1.49% and 27.58 ± 0.53%, respectively. TEM result showed that the morphology of MAG-M was homogeneous and spherical shape. The dilution stability of MAG-M was no significant change in particle size and entrapment efficiency. MAG was demonstrated a sustained-release behaviour after encapsulated in micelles. MAG permeability across a Caco-2 cell monolayer was enhanced, and the pharmacokinetics study of MAG-M showed a 2.83-fold increase in relative oral bioavailability compared with raw MAG.

Conclusions
The mixed micelles containing pluronic F127 and L61 as drug delivery system provided a well strategy for resolving the poor solubility and bioavailability problems of MAG.
From forest to city: Plant community change in northeast Ohio from 1800 to 2014
Authors: Flinn Kathryn M. , Mahany Tylor P. , Hausman Constance E. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractQuestionsThis study compares the extent of habitat types, species composition of plant communities and abundance of individual tree species in northeast Ohio between 1800 and 2014. This comparison allows us to test hypotheses about the drivers of community change, including climate change, fire suppression and disturbance frequency, and to evaluate the impact of urbanization on biotic homogenization.LocationCuyahoga County, Ohio,USA.MethodsRanked timber observations from early land surveys were compared with vegetation plots throughout the Cleveland Metroparks system. We used ordination, cluster analysis and indicator species analysis to compare plant communities in the two time periods. We tested whether differences in species frequency and dominance from 1800 to 2014 depended on climate, fire and shade tolerance and life‐history strategy.ResultsIn 1800, 94% of Cuyahoga County was forested, 5% wetlands and <1% open oak woods. Most forests in 1800 were dominated byFagus grandifolia(47%),Quercus(28%) orAcer(11%). At the community level, the largest changes from 1800 to 2014 were decreases in communities dominated byF. grandifoliaandQuercusand an increase in communities dominated byAcer.Fagus grandifolia,Castanea dentata,Tilia americanaandCaryadecreased in frequency, andAcer,Prunus serotinaandUlmusincreased. The best predictor of changes in frequency was life history; species with a ruderal strategy tended to increase. Climate, fire and shade tolerance did not predict changes in frequency. Plant communities in 2014 vegetation plots were more similar to each other than plant communities on the 1800 survey lines.ConclusionsThe urbanization of northeast Ohio led to regionally homogenous vegetation and plant communities in which ruderal species are frequent and dominant.
The Effects of the Complementary Compensation on Sickness Absence: an Approach Based on Collective Bargaining Agreements in France
Authors: Ben Halima Mohamed Ali , Koubi Malik , Regaert Camille 
Published: February 2018

AbstractWe take into account complementary sick leave compensation paid by the employer, in addition to Social Security, to re‐examine the link between non‐work‐related sickness absence and its compensation. We use matched employer–employee panel data based on the period 2005–2008 containing information on employees’ earnings, on their employers, their sick leave and their health care expenditure and a new data source describing the precise compensation scheme for each CBA. We consider three different sets of compensation variables and three different outputs and find each time a positive relationship between compensation and absence, except for executives for whom it is not significant.
Corporate security prices in structural credit risk models with incomplete information
Authors: Frey Rüdiger , Rösler Lars , Lu Dan 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThe paper studies derivative asset analysis in structural credit risk models where the asset value of the firm is not fully observable. It is shown that in order to determine the price dynamics of traded securities, one needs to solve a stochastic filtering problem for the asset value. We transform this problem to a filtering problem for a stopped diffusion process and apply results from the filtering literature to this problem. In this way, we obtain an stochastic partial differential equation characterization for the filter density. Moreover, we characterize the default intensity under incomplete information and determine the price dynamics of traded securities. Armed with these results, we study derivative assets in our setup: We explain how the model can be applied to the pricing of options on traded assets and we discuss dynamic hedging and model calibration. The paper closes with a small simulation study.
A Quantum‐Inspired Genetic Algorithm‐Based Optimization Method for Mobile Impact Test Data Integration
Authors: Zhao Wenju , Guo Shuanglin , Zhou Yun , Zhang Jian 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThe traditional impact test method needs a large number of sensors deployed on the entire structure, which cannot meet the requirements of rapid bridge testing. A new mobile impact test method is proposed by sequentially testing the substructures then integrating the test data of all substructures for flexibility identification of the entire structure. The novelty of the proposed method is that the quantum‐inspired genetic algorithm (QIGA) is proposed to improve computational efficiency by transforming the scaling factor sign determination problem to an optimization problem. Experimental example of a steel–concrete composite slab and numerical example of a three‐span continuous rigid‐frame bridge are studied which successfully verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Insight on specificity of uracil permeases of the NAT/NCS2 family from analysis of the transporter encoded in the pyrimidine utilization operon of Escherichia coli
Authors: Botou Maria , Lazou Panayiota , Papakostas Konstantinos , Lambrinidis George , Evangelidis Thomas , Mikros Emmanuel , Frillingos Stathis 
Published: February 2018

SummaryThe uracil permease UraA of Escherichia coli is a structurally known prototype for the ubiquitous Nucleobase‐Ascorbate Transporter (NAT) or Nucleobase‐Cation Symporter‐2 (NCS2) family and represents a well‐defined subgroup of bacterial homologs that remain functionally unstudied. Here, we analyze four of these homologs, including RutG of E. coli which shares 35% identity with UraA and is encoded in the catabolic rut (pyrimidine utilization) operon. Using amplified expression in E. coli K‐12, we show that RutG is a high‐affinity permease for uracil, thymine and, at low efficiency, xanthine and recognizes also 5‐fluorouracil and oxypurinol. In contrast, UraA and the homologs from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus and Aeromonas veronii are permeases specific for uracil and 5‐fluorouracil. Molecular docking indicates that thymine is hindered from binding to UraA by a highly conserved Phe residue which is absent in RutG. Site‐directed replacement of this Phe with Ala in the three uracil‐specific homologs allows high‐affinity recognition and/or transport of thymine, emulating the RutG profile. Furthermore, all RutG orthologs from enterobacteria retain an Ala at this position, implying that they can use both uracil and thymine and, possibly, xanthine as substrates and provide the bacterial cell with a range of catabolizable nucleobases.
The portion size effect and overconsumption – towards downsizing solutions for children and adolescents
Authors: Hetherington M. M. , Blundell‐Birtill P. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractPortion sizes of foods offered to consumers have increased at the same time as overweight and obesity levels have risen. It has been suggested that large portions of high energy density (HED) foods increase total energy intake and that this is not compensated for in the short‐ to medium‐term, potentially promoting weight gain. In the laboratory setting, offering large portions of HED foods increases overall energy intake in both children and adults. This phenomenon is known as the portion size effect (PSE), and it is robust, reliable and enduring. The possible impact of the PSE is that large portions served over time may facilitate overeating and could contribute to overweight and obesity. Explanations for the PSE vary from simple heuristics, such as the tendency to clear the plate, to more complex biobehavioural processes, including individual differences in susceptibility to external food cues through eating traits. Consumers may eat in accordance with available consumption norms or eat opportunistically when large portions are made available. An obvious solution to the PSE is to ‘downsize’ HED meal items and snacks, but whether this strategy is acceptable or feasible is not clear. In adults, the effects of downsizing are mixed and for children and adolescents, as yet unclear. The contention is that for those who are still learning about social norms and appropriate portions, there remains the potential to counter the PSE through downsizing strategies.
Maternal nutrition and weight management in pregnancy: A nudge in the right direction
Authors: Walker R. , Kumar A. , Blumfield M. , Truby H. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractSuboptimal maternal nutrition and excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) establish in mothers and their offspring a weight gain trajectory towards overweight and obesity. Therefore, pregnancy may be the best opportunity to disrupt the generational cycle of obesity. More than half of women in the UK now enter pregnancy overweight or obese, highlighting that if interventions are not targeted towards women in higher weight categories before conception they are likely to ‘miss the mark’. To address issues of suboptimal maternal nutrition and excessive GWG in antenatal care, health professionals need to consider how women's requirements and expectations may have changed in recent years and the impact of weight stigma on the care of women who are obese. This paper aims to drive changes in clinical practice guidelines, medical curricula, the language used by health professionals, and ultimately promote maternal nutrition and weight management in pregnancy as key priorities during antenatal care. Evidence indicates that women want non‐judgemental, simple and encouraging guidance in these areas. Small changes to health professionals’ practice can improve how advice regarding nutrition and weight management in pregnancy is delivered, and has the potential to reduce overweight and obesity prevalence in women and their children in the years to come. Surely that goal is worth pursuing.
The effect of arabinoxylooligosaccharides on upper gastroduodenal motility and hunger ratings in humans
Authors: Scarpellini E. , Deloose E. , Vos R. , Francois I. , Delcour J. A. , Broekaert W. F. , Verbeke K. , Tack J. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBackground and aimsPrebiotics such as Arabinoxylooligosaccharides (AXOS) are non‐digestible, fermentable food ingredients stimulating growth/activity of colonic bacteria with enhanced carbohydrates fermentation (CF) in humans. The migrating motor complex (MMC) of the gastrointestinal tract has been recently identified as an important hunger signal, but no data are available yet on the role of acute CF on MMC activity and related hunger ratings. Thus, we aimed to study the effect of acute AXOS CF on MMC and hunger in humans.MethodsA total of 13 healthy volunteers were randomized in a single‐blind crossover placebo‐controlled study where 9.4 g of AXOS or 10 g of maltodextrin and 1 g of unlabelled lactose ureide (LU) were given 12 hours prior to the study and, in the next morning, together with a pancake containing 500 mg of 13C‐LU. In 10 hours after the meal, 13CO2 and hydrogen excretion were determined every 15 minutes while hunger/appetite ratings every 2 minutes through a VAS questionnaire. Five hours after the meal, antroduodenal motility was measured using HRM.Key ResultsAXOS significantly increased CF (158 ± 81 vs 840 ± 464 H2 ppm*minute, placebo vs AXOS, P < .05) without affecting the orocecal transit time (OCTT). AXOS had no significant effect on the occurrence, origin, and duration of phase III and on the total number, origin, and duration of phases I and II. Hunger and appetite scores prior and after phase III were not affected by AXOS.ConclusionsAXOS acutely increases colonic fermentation, but this neither affects OCTT, activity of the MMC, nor interdigestive hunger scores in man.
Caudal and intravenous dexamethasone as an adjuvant to pediatric caudal block: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhu Change , Zhang Saiji , Gu Zhiqing , Tong Yiru , Wei Rong 
Published: February 2018

SummaryBackgroundDexamethasone has become a popular additive for regional anesthesia. The aim of this meta‐analysis was to assess the effectiveness of this additive on the duration of postoperative analgesia, postoperative vomiting, and possible adverse events in pediatrics.MethodsWe searched databases, conference records, and registered trials for randomized controlled trials. The databases included the Cochrane Library, JBI Database of Systematic Reviews, PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge, Science‐Direct, and Embase. Odds ratio, weighted mean difference, and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated using the REVMAN software, version 5.3, for data synthesis and statistical analysis, which following the PRISMA statement. The main outcomes were duration of postoperative analgesia (time from the end of surgery to first administration of analgesics as evidenced by a pain score) and postoperative vomiting.ResultsSeven studies were selected for this meta‐analysis, involving 647 pediatric patients. All the patients were randomized to receive caudal or intravenous dexamethasone with caudal block (experimental group) or plain caudal block (control group). There was significantly longer duration of postoperative analgesia in the experimental group compared with control group (weighted mean difference: 238.40 minutes; 95% CI: 193.41‐283.40; P < .00001). The experimental group had fewer patients who needed analgesics after surgery (odds ratio: 0.18 minutes; 95% CI: 0.05‐0.66; P = .009). Additionally, the number of subjects who remained pain‐free to 2, 6, 24, and 48 hours after operation was significantly greater in the experimental group than control group. Side effects in these 2 groups were comparable (odds ratio: 0.94; 95% CI: 0.34‐2.56; P = .90). The incidence of postoperative vomiting was significantly decreased in the experimental group compared with control group (odds ratio: 0.29; 95% CI: 0.13‐0.63; P = .002).ConclusionCaudal and intravenous dexamethasone could provide longer duration of postoperative analgesia and reduced the incidence of postoperative vomiting with comparable adverse effects than plain caudal block. However, any additive to the caudal space carries with it the potential for neurotoxicity and that caution should always be exercised when weighting the risks and benefits of any additive. The result was influenced by small numbers of participants and significant heterogeneity.
The incidence of postoperative respiratory complications: A retrospective analysis of cuffed vs uncuffed tracheal tubes in children 0‐7 years of age
Authors: de Wit Michel , Peelen Linda M. , van Wolfswinkel Leo , de Graaff Jurgen C. 
Published: February 2018

SummaryBackgroundThe use of cuffed vs uncuffed endotracheal tubes in pediatric anesthesia is widely debated. This study aimed to investigate whether the use of cuffed vs uncuffed tubes is associated with an increased incidence of acute postoperative respiratory complications.MethodsWe retrospectively studied all children aged 0‐7 years in which the trachea was intubated between September 28, 2006 and August 26, 2016 in a pediatric university hospital. Logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the association between tube design (cuffed vs uncuffed) and the incidence of acute postoperative respiratory complications (stridor, wheezing, or dyspnea; desaturations ≤90%) in need of intervention (epinephrine, dexamethasone, nebulizers, supplementary oxygen, or reintubation), adjusting for potential confounders.ResultsIn 5247 of 6796 cases (77%), a cuffed tube was used. Acute postoperative respiratory complications in need of intervention occurred in 334 cases (4.9%) and were less common after cuffed than after uncuffed tubes (N = 236, 4.5% vs N = 98, 6.3%, respectively, odds ratio 0.70; 95%CI 0.55‐0.89). Desaturation occurred less often after cuffed tubes (cuffed: N = 1365, 26.0%; uncuffed: N = 512, 33.1%; OR: 0.71 (0.61‐0.84)). After adjusting for confounders, there was no difference in acute postoperative respiratory complications between cuffed tubes and uncuffed tubes (OR 0.74; 95%CI 0.55‐1.01). Subgroup analyses in various age groups did not show significant differences between the use of cuffed or uncuffed tubes.ConclusionAfter adjustment for multiple confounders, the use of cuffed tubes was not associated with an increased incidence of acute respiratory complications in postanesthesia care unit.
Corticosteroid and Cortisol Serum Levels Following Intra‐articular Triamcinolone Acetonide Lumbar Facet Joint Injections
Authors: Dickson Rozalin R. , Reid Joel M. , Nicholson Wayne T. , Lamer Tim J. , Hooten W. Michael 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBackgroundFacet joint steroid injections are used to treat chronic low back pain. However, little is known about the systemic absorption and serum levels of steroids following intra‐articular facet joint injections. The primary objective of this preliminary study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of triamcinolone acetonide following fluoroscopically guided intra‐articular lumbar facet joint injections in a cohort of patients with chronic low back pain. A secondary aim was to investigate the effects of triamcinolone on serum cortisol levels following lumbar facet joint injections.MethodsThe study cohort included 5 patients undergoing fluoroscopically guided intra‐articular lumbar facet joint injections at a pain medicine specialty clinic. Blood was collected prior to the injections and on days 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42 following the injections.ResultsThe terminal elimination half‐life of triamcinolone in a noncompartmental analysis was 213 hours. The peak median triamcinolone concentration of 3.6 ng/mL was detected within 24 hours after the injections. Serum cortisol levels were < 30 ng/mL for an average of 4.4 days. The maximum effect of triamcinolone on cortisol suppression was observed with triamcinolone serum levels of > 1.9 ng/mL.ConclusionsThe peak serum concentration of triamcinolone following intra‐articular facet joint injections occurred within 24 hours. The median terminal elimination half‐life was 213 hours, but baseline cortisol levels were suppressed for an average of 4.4 days. Clinically, the prolonged half‐life and endocrine effects of triamcinolone could increase the risk for serious drug–drug interactions in patients taking medications that inhibit corticosteroid metabolism.
What the patient wants: Addressing patients’ treatment targets in an integrative group psychotherapy programme
Authors: Kealy David , Joyce Anthony S. , Weber Rainer , Ehrenthal Johannes C. , Ogrodniczuk John S. 
Published: February 2018

ObjectivesLimited empirical attention has been devoted to individualized treatment objectives in intensive group therapy for personality dysfunction. This study investigated patients’ ratings of distress associated with individual therapy goals – referred to as target object severity – in an intensive Evening Treatment Programme for patients with personality dysfunction.DesignChange in target objective severity was examined in a sample of 81 patients who completed treatment in an intensive, integrative group therapy programme.MethodsCorrelation and regression analyses were used to examine associations between change in target object severity and patients’ pre‐treatment diagnosis, symptom distress, and treatment outcome expectancy, and between change in target objective severity and patients’ ratings of group therapy process (group climate, therapeutic alliance, group cohesion). The relationship between change in target objective severity and longer‐range life satisfaction was also examined in a subsample of patients who rated life satisfaction at follow‐up.ResultsWhile change in target objective severity was not significantly related to pre‐treatment variables, significant associations were found with several aspects of group therapy process. Patients’ experience of a highly engaged group climate was uniquely associated with improvement in target object severity. Such improvement was significantly related to longer‐term life satisfaction after controlling for general symptom change.ConclusionThe working atmosphere in group therapy contributes to patients’ progress regarding individual treatment targets, and such progress is an important factor in later satisfaction. Attention to individualized treatment targets deserves further clinical and research attention in the context of integrative group therapy for personality dysfunction.Practitioner points

This study found that patients attending an integrative group treatment programme for personality dysfunction experienced significant improvement in severity of distress related to individual treatment objectives.

Improvement in severity of distress related to individual treatment objectives was uniquely associated with patients’ experience of an engaged, collaborative working atmosphere.

Improvement in individual target objective severity was associated with patients’ ratings of overall life satisfaction, rated an average of 9 months following termination, after controlling for change in general symptom severity.
Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus presenting in twins
Authors: Montuno Michael A. , Church Ann A. , Schoch Jennifer J. , Andrews Israel D. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractSubacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus is a clinically distinct form of cutaneous lupus erythematosus, with age of onset typically in the second to fifth decades. Eleven cases have been reported in childhood, and we present the first known case of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus in identical twins. Although flares are typically photo‐induced, we present an annular eruption typical of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus with concurrent pinworm infestation, with recurrence of disease with cutaneous larva migrans. The patient's identical twin had a similar eruption with pinworm infection. This case highlights the possibility of parasitic infestation as a trigger for subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus in genetically susceptible individuals.