bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Blink reflex recovery cycle to differentiate progressive supranuclear palsy from corticobasal syndrome
Authors: Sciacca G. , Nicoletti A. , Mostile G. , Luca A. , Raciti L. , Dibilio V. , Drago F. , Salomone S. , Zappia M. 
Published: May 2018

Background and purposeProgressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal syndrome (CBS) may share similar clinical findings and tests to distinguish between the two disorders could be useful. We evaluated the blink reflex and R2 blink reflex recovery cycle (R2BRRC), determining diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive value of R2BRRC in differentiating patients with PSP from those with CBS.MethodsThis was a prospective data collection study investigating blink reflex and R2BRRC at interstimulus intervals (ISIs) of 100, 150, 200, 300, 400, 500 and 750 ms in 12 patients with PSP, eight patients with CBS and 10 controls.ResultsPatients with PSP have earlier recruitment of R2BRRC as compared with patients with CBS (ISI: 100 ms, P = 0.002; 150 ms, P < 0.001; 200 ms, P < 0.001; 300 ms, P = 0.02) and controls (ISI: 100 ms, P < 0.001; 150 ms, P < 0.001; 200 ms, P < 0.001; 300 ms, P = 0.004). The presence of an early recovery of the R2 differentiated PSP from CBS with a specificity and sensitivity of 87.5% and 91.7%, respectively.ConclusionsThe R2BRRC curve might be considered to be a useful tool in differentiating patients with PSP from those with CBS.
Heparinoid suppresses Der p‐inducedIL‐1β production by inhibitingERKand p38MAPKpathways in keratinocytes
Authors: Utsunomiya Ryo , Dai Xiuju , Murakami Masamoto , Masuda Kana , Okazaki Hidenori , Tsuda Teruko , Mori Hideki , Shiraishi Ken , Tohyama Mikiko , Sayama Koji 
Published: May 2018

AbstractEpidermal keratinocytes initiate skin inflammation by activating immune cells. The skin barrier is disrupted in atopic dermatitis (AD) and epidermal keratinocytes can be exposed to environmental stimuli, such as house dust mite (HDM) allergens. We showed previously thatHDMallergens activate theNLRP3 inflammasome of keratinocytes, thereby releasing pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Heparinoid is an effective moisturizer for atopic dry skin. However, a recent report showed that heparinoid treatment can improve inflammation of lichen planus. Therefore, we hypothesized that it acts on epidermal keratinocytes not only as a moisturizer, but also as a suppressant of the triggers of skin inflammation. We found thatHDMallergen‐induced interleukin (IL)‐1β release from keratinocytes was inhibited significantly by heparinoid pretreatment without affecting cell viability. However, heparinoid did not affect caspase‐1 release, suggesting that heparinoid did not affectHDMallergen‐induced inflammasome activation. Heparinoid treatment not only decreased intracellular levels of pro‐IL‐1β, but also suppressedIL‐1β messengerRNA(mRNA) expression in keratinocytes. Among the intracellular signalling pathways, the activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase and p38 pathways, which are required forIL‐1β expression in keratinocytes, was inhibited by heparinoid treatment. The inhibitory effect of heparinoid onIL‐1βmRNAexpression was also confirmed with living skin equivalents. Our results demonstrated that heparinoid suppresses the initiation of keratinocyte‐mediated skin inflammation.
Stress intensity factor monitoring under cyclic loading by digital image correlation
Authors: Mokhtarishirazabad M. , Lopez‐Crespo P. , Zanganeh M. 
Published: May 2018

AbstractIn the present work, a methodology for structural health monitoring based on a combination of digital image correlation and an analytical elastic solution is presented. To this end, full‐field displacement around a crack tip in a CT sample made of 2024‐T351 Al alloy under cyclic loading was monitored at different load levels. An analytical solution based on Williams' model was used to evaluate the experimental value of the stress intensity factor (SIF) in a continuous fashion during cyclic loads. It was observed that by increasing the loading amplitude in the cyclic loading, the difference between nominal and experimental estimation of SIF increased due to the crack tip plasticity effect, which was not considered in the nominal evaluations. To consider the plasticity effect, Irwin's approach was employed. The results showed that the proposed method can successfully monitor the evolution of SIF of a sample under cyclic loading until the sudden fracture of the sample.
The New CLOCIT Irradiation Facility for 40Ar/39Ar Geochronology: Characterisation, Comparison with CLICIT and Implications for High‐Precision Geochronology
Authors: Rutte Daniel , Becker Tim A. , Deino Alan L. , Reese Steven R. , Renne Paul R. , Schickler Robert A. 
Published: May 2018

The Cadmium‐Lined Outer‐Core Irradiation Tube (CLOCIT) is a new irradiation facility for 40Ar/39Ar geochronology at the Oregon State University TRIGA® reactor. We report fluence (i.e., time‐integrated flux) parameters from the first four CLOCIT irradiations and compare them with the existing Cadmium‐Lined Inner‐Core Irradiation Tube (CLICIT). CLOCIT provides an average neutron flux equivalent of 1.45–1.53 × 10−4 J h−1; about 55% of CLICIT. Radial fluence gradients were on the order of 0.2–4.2% cm−1. A planar fit of J‐values results in residuals in the range of uncertainty in the J‐value, but systematic deviations resolve a non‐planar component of the neutron flux field, which has also been observed in CLICIT. Axial neutron fluence gradients were 0.6–1% cm−1, compared with 0.7–1.6% cm−1 for the CLICIT. Production rate ratios of interfering reactions were (40Ar/39Ar)K = (4 ± 6) × 10−4 and (38Ar/39Ar)K = (1.208 ± 0.002) × 10−2, (36Ar/37Ar)Ca = (2.649 ± 0.014) × 10−4, (38Ar/37Ar)Ca = (3.33 ± 0.12) × 10−5 and (39Ar/37Ar)Ca = (9.1 ± 0.28) × 10−4, similar to the CLICIT values.
Hydraulic Conductivity Calibration of Logging NMR in a Granite Aquifer, Laramie Range, Wyoming
Authors: Ren Shuangpo , Parsekian Andrew D. , Zhang Ye , Carr Bradley J. 
Published: May 2018

AbstractIn granite aquifers, fractures can provide both storage volume and conduits for groundwater. Characterization of fracture hydraulic conductivity (K) in such aquifers is important for predicting flow rate and calibrating models. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) well logging is a method to quickly obtain near‐borehole hydraulic conductivity (i.e., KNMR) at high‐vertical resolution. On the other hand, FLUTe flexible liner technology can produce a K profile at comparable resolution but requires a fluid driving force between borehole and formation. For three boreholes completed in a fractured granite, we jointly interpreted logging NMR data and FLUTe K estimates to calibrate an empirical equation for translating borehole NMR data to K estimates. For over 90% of the depth intervals investigated from these boreholes, the estimated KNMR are within one order of magnitude of KFLUTe. The empirical parameters obtained from calibrating the NMR data suggest that “intermediate diffusion” and/or “slow diffusion” during the NMR relaxation time may occur in the flowing fractures when hydraulic aperture are sufficiently large. For each borehole, “intermediate diffusion” dominates the relaxation time, therefore assuming “fast diffusion” in the interpretation of NMR data from fractured rock may lead to inaccurate KNMR estimates. We also compare calibrations using inexpensive slug tests that suggest reliable KNMR estimates for fractured rock may be achieved using limited calibration against borehole hydraulic measurements.
Bleeding score in type 1 von Willebrand disease patients using the condensed MCMDM‐1 vWD validated questionnaire
Authors: Pathare A. , Al Hajri F. , Al Omrani S. , Al Obaidani N. , Al Balushi B. , Al Falahi K. 
Published: May 2018

AbstractBackgroundAssessment of the severity of bleeding symptom has led to the evolution of bleeding assessment tools which are now validated.AimsTo administer the condensed molecular and clinical markers for the diagnosis and management of type 1 von Willebrand disease VWD (MCMDM‐1 vWD) questionnaire to the Omani type 1 vWD patients and correlate it with the laboratory parameters.MethodsPatients and controls were personally interviewed and the condensed MCMDM‐1 vWD questionnaire administered by a single investigator. Bleeding score (BS) was calculated, based on the presence or absence of the bleeding symptoms according to a standard validated questionnaire in both the patients and the controls.ResultsThe median age of the patient cohort was 27 (range, 7‐49) years with 60.87% of females. The median time to administer condensed MCMDM‐1 BS questionnaire was 11 minutes (interquartile range‐IQR;7,16). Overall, bleeding from the oral cavity was the most predominant symptom (63%). The median BS was 5 (IQR;1,8) although individual scores ranged between 0 and 29. However, there was no statistically significant difference in BS between genders (males: median 4; IQR 1,6 and females: median 5, IQR 1,10) (P > .05, Kruskal‐Wallis test) The Spearman's correlation value of BS was weak with FVIII:C levels and von Willebrand Ristocetin co‐factor activity; very weak with von Willebrand Antigen level, and moderate with vonWillebrand Collagen Binding activity being ‐0.29, −0.28, −0.14 and −0.43, respectively.ConclusionThe BS reflects the severity of bleeding among the vWD patients. Although the BS was abnormal, it did not correlate significantly with the surrogate laboratory parameters [P > .05].
Integration of T‐cell receptor, Notch and cytokine signals programs mouse γδ T‐cell effector differentiation
Authors: Zarin Payam , In Tracy SH , Chen Edward LY , Singh Jastaranpreet , Wong Gladys W , Mohtashami Mahmood , Wiest David L , Anderson Michele K , Zúñiga‐Pflücker Juan Carlos 
Published: May 2018

Abstractγδ T‐cells perform a wide range of tissue‐ and disease‐specific functions that are dependent on the effector cytokines produced by these cells. However, the aggregate signals required for the development of interferon‐γ (IFNγ) and interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) producing γδ T‐cells remain unknown. Here, we define the cues involved in the functional programming of γδ T‐cells, by examining the roles of T‐cell receptor (TCR), Notch, and cytokine‐receptor signaling. KN6 γδTCR‐transduced Rag2−/− T‐cell progenitors were cultured on stromal cells variably expressing TCR and Notch ligands, supplemented with different cytokines. We found that distinct combinations of these signals are required to program IFNγ versus IL‐17 producing γδ T‐cell subsets, with Notch and weak TCR ligands optimally enabling development of γδ17 cells in the presence of IL‐1β, IL‐21 and IL‐23. Notably, these cytokines were also shown to be required for the intrathymic development of γδ17 cells. Together, this work provides a framework of how signals downstream of TCR, Notch and cytokine receptors integrate to program the effector function of IFNγ and IL‐17 producing γδ T‐cell subsets.
BIM determines the number of merocytic dendritic cells, a cell type that breaks immune tolerance
Authors: Audiger Cindy , Lesage Sylvie 
Published: May 2018

AbstractIn contrast to conventional dendritic cells (cDC), when merocytic dendritic cells (mcDC) present antigens derived from apoptotic bodies, T‐cell anergy is reversed rather than induced, a process that promotes autoimmunity. Interestingly, mcDC are present in higher proportion in type 1 diabetes‐prone NOD mice than in autoimmune‐resistant B6 and BALB/c mice, and the Insulin‐dependent diabetes (Idd)13 locus is linked to mcDC proportion. Therefore, mcDC are notably associated with susceptibility to autoimmune diabetes. To identify which gene determines the proportion and absolute number of mcDC, we undertook a candidate gene approach by selecting relevant candidates within the Idd13 locus. We find that neither β2m nor Sirpa appear to influence the proportion of mcDC. Instead, we show that Bim effectively modulates mcDC number in a hematopoietic‐intrinsic manner. We also demonstrate that Bim‐deficiency does not impact other cDC subsets and appears to play a specific role in determining the proportion and absolute number of mcDC by promoting their survival. Together, these data demonstrate that Bim specifically modulates the number of mcDC. Identifying factors that facilitate apoptosis of mcDC by increasing BIM activity in a cell type‐specific manner may help prevent autoimmunity.
Expanding severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) surveillance beyond influenza: The process and data from 1 year of implementation in Vietnam
Authors: Alroy Karen A. , Do Trang Thuy , Tran Phu Dac , Dang Tan Quang , Vu Long Ngoc , Le Nga Thi Hang , Dang Anh Duc , Ngu Nghia Duy , Ngo Tu Huy , Hoang Phuong Vu Mai , Phan Lan Trong , Nguyen Thuong Vu , Nguyen Long Thanh , Nguyen Thinh Viet , Vien Mai Quang , Le Huy Xuan , Dao Anh The , Nguyen Trieu Bao , Pham Duoc Tho , Nguyen Van Thi Tuyet , Pham Thanh Ngoc , Phan Binh Hai , Whitaker Brett , Do Thuy Thi Thu , Dao Phuong Anh , Balajee S. Arunmozhi , Mounts Anthony W. 
Published: May 2018

BackgroundIn 2016, as a component of the Global Health Security Agenda, the Vietnam Ministry of Health expanded its existing influenza sentinel surveillance for severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) to include testing for 7 additional viral respiratory pathogens. This article describes the steps taken to implement expanded SARI surveillance in Vietnam and reports data from 1 year of expanded surveillance.MethodsThe process of expanding the suite of pathogens for routine testing by real‐time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (rRT‐PCR) included laboratory trainings, procurement/distribution of reagents, and strengthening and aligning SARI surveillance epidemiology practices at sentinel sites and regional institutes (RI).ResultsSurveillance data showed that of 4003 specimens tested by the RI laboratories, 20.2% (n = 810) were positive for influenza virus. Of the 3193 influenza‐negative specimens, 41.8% (n = 1337) were positive for at least 1 non‐influenza respiratory virus, of which 16.2% (n = 518), 13.4% (n = 428), and 9.6% (n = 308) tested positive for respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus, and adenovirus, respectively.ConclusionsThe Government of Vietnam has demonstrated that expanding respiratory viral surveillance by strengthening and building upon an influenza platform is feasible, efficient, and practical.
Low‐temperature crystallization of La0.15Sr0.775TiO3 using ionic liquids
Authors: Mottram Lucy , Martin Daniel Z.C. , Reeves‐McLaren Nik , Boston Rebecca 
Published: May 2018

AbstractThe n‐type thermoelectric oxide La0.15Sr0.775TiO3 (LST) has been synthesized at 600°C using an ionic liquid method. The method uses the ionic liquid 1‐ethyl 3‐methylimidazolium acetate as the sole complexing agent: the lack of a second, carbon‐rich template decreases the quantity of reduced intermediate phases which form during heating. By suppressing these phases, greatly reduced temperatures can be used to crystallize the perovskite LST phase, on the nanoscale. These nanoparticles have the potential to be used to increase the figure of merit in n‐type thermoelectric oxide devices.
A vibrational study of phase transitions in Fe2P2O7 and Cr2P2O7 under high‐pressures
Authors: Blanc Nicolas A. , Williams Quentin , El Bali Brahim , Essehli Rachid 
Published: May 2018

AbstractThe vibrational properties of synthetic iron diphosphate (Fe2P2O7) and chromium diphosphate (Cr2P2O7) are studied under high‐pressure conditions between ~22 and ~30 GPa, respectively. Each compound's structural response to pressure and pressure‐induced phase transitions are characterized. The chromium‐bearing sample shows coalescence of infrared bands occurring near 6 and 17 GPa: these may be associated with increases in the local symmetry of the P2O7 group. The iron sample undergoes a first‐order phase transition near ~9 GPa, and a possible phase transition near 5.5 GPa. At 9 GPa, the initially single, strong symmetric PO4 stretching mode splits into four modes, and the sole asymmetric PO4 stretching mode splits into two bands. These changes indicate the presence of multiple tetrahedral environments within a larger volume unit cell, and the relative frequencies of the split vibrations indicate a P2O7 environment with a markedly narrowed P–O–P angle. The difference between the behavior of the iron and chromium compounds is probably generated by the smaller iron ion producing a discontinuous decrease in the P–O–P angle at lower pressures than in the analogous chromium compound. Our results demonstrate that the dimerized P2O7 group remains stable under compression to over 20‐30 GPa at 300 K.
Cost‐effectiveness of forced air warming during sedation in the cardiac catheterisation laboratory
Authors: Conway Aaron , Duff Jed , Sutherland Joanna 
Published: May 2018

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to determine the cost‐effectiveness of forced air warming (FAW) during sedation in a cardiac catheterisation laboratory.BackgroundForced air warming improves thermal comfort in comparison with standard care. It is not known whether the extra costs required for FAW are good value.DesignCost‐effectiveness analysis alongside a randomized controlled trial conducted in 2016–2017.MethodsA cost‐effectiveness analysis was undertaken using Monte Carlo simulations from input distributions to estimate costs and effects associated with using FAW to reduce risk of thermal discomfort for patients receiving sedation in a cardiac catheterisation laboratory. A range of willingness to pay threshold values were tested with results plotted on a cost‐effectiveness acceptability curve. Costs were calculated in Australian currency ($AUD).ResultsEstimated total costs were $5.21 (SD 3.26) higher per patient for FAW in comparison to standard care. Estimated probability of success (rating of thermal comfort) was 0.16 (0.06) higher for FAW. Forced air warming becomes more likely to result in a net benefit than standard care at a willingness to pay threshold of $34.ConclusionForced air warming could be considered cost‐effective for procedures performed with sedation in a cardiac catheterisation laboratory if the extra cost of an incremental gain in thermal comfort is less than the decision maker's willingness to pay for it. Therefore, those responsible for decision‐making regarding use of FAW in the cardiac catheterisation laboratory can use results of our model to decide if it represents good value for their organisation.
The importance of contextual, relational and cognitive factors for novice nurses’ emotional state and affective commitment to the profession. A multilevel study
Authors: Hoeve Yvonne ten , Brouwer Jasperina , Roodbol Petrie F. , Kunnen Saskia 
Published: May 2018

AbstractAimThis study explored the effects of contextual, relational and cognitive factors derived from novice nurses’ work experiences on emotions and affective commitment to the profession.BackgroundWith an increasing demand for well‐trained nurses, it is imperative to investigate which work‐related factors most affect their commitment to develop effective strategies to improve work conditions, work satisfaction and emotional attachment.DesignA repeated measures within subjects design.MethodsFrom September 2013–September 2014 eighteen novice nurses described work‐related experiences in unstructured diaries and scored their emotional state and affective commitment on a scale. The themes that emerged from the 18 diaries (with 580 diary entries) were quantified as contextual, relational and cognitive factors. Contextual factors refer to complexity of care and existential events; relational factors to experiences with patients, support from colleagues, supervisors and physicians; cognitive factors to nurses’ perceived competence.ResultsThe first multilevel regression analysis, based on the 18 diaries with 580 entries, showed that complexity of care, lack of support and lack of competence were negatively related to novice nurses’ affective commitment, whereas received support was positively related. The next multilevel regression analyses showed that all contextual, relational and cognitive factors were either related to negative or positive emotions.ConclusionTo retain novice nurses in the profession, it is important to provide support and feedback. This enables novice nurses to deal with the complexity of care and feelings of incompetence and to develop a professional commitment.
The impact of early psychosocial intervention on self‐efficacy of care recipient/carer dyads living with early‐stage dementia—A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Stockwell‐Smith Gillian , Moyle Wendy , Kellett Ursula 
Published: May 2018

AbstractAimTo evaluate the effect of a targeted community‐based psychosocial intervention on self‐efficacy outcomes for care recipient/carer dyads living with early‐stage dementia.BackgroundThere is increasing interest in the role of self‐efficacy and self‐management structures in determining positive outcomes for people with dementia. The assumption is that care recipient/carer dyads who receive early support to identify and adjust to dementia‐related changes will cope better in the long term.DesignAn explanatory sequential mixed‐method design was employed. Primarily quantitative with qualitative data providing a supportive secondary role to expand on and illuminate the quantitative findings.MethodsEighty‐eight dyads were recruited and allocated on a regional basis to an intervention or control group. Intervention group dyads received the Early Diagnosis Dyadic Intervention. Control group dyads received two information manuals. Quantitative data were collected at three time points. Qualitative data were collected via evaluation questionnaires and semistructured interviews.ResultsIntervention structure, content, and delivery were acceptable to the dyads but few quantitative self‐efficacy findings reached statistical significance. Improvements in self‐efficacy were evident in the postintervention evaluation qualitative responses where dyads expressed greater confidence in identifying and accessing community support.ConclusionThere is an urgent need for effective psychosocial interventions to help reduce the impact of dementia symptoms on patients, carers, and society. This study makes an important contribution to our understanding of the capacity of psychosocial interventions to improve self‐efficacy outcomes for care recipient/carer dyads with early‐stage dementia while also illustrating the challenges associated with measuring self‐efficacy in the early stages of the condition.