bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Is Exercise the Right Medicine for Dystrophic Muscle?
Authors: SPAULDING HANNAH R. , SELSBY JOSHUA T. 
Published: April 2018

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a neuromuscular disease caused by a dystrophin protein deficiency. Dystrophin functions to stabilize and protect the muscle fiber during muscle contraction; thus, the absence of functional dystrophin protein leads to muscle injury. DMD patients experience progressive muscle necrosis, loss of function, and ultimately succumb to respiratory failure or cardiomyopathy. Exercise is known to improve muscle health and strength in healthy individuals as well as positively affect other systems. Because of this, exercise has been investigated as a potential therapeutic approach for DMD.

Methods
This review aims to provide a concise presentation of the exercise literature with a focus on dystrophin-deficient muscle. Our intent was to identify trends and gaps in knowledge with an appreciation of exercise modality.

Results
After compiling data from mouse and human studies, it became apparent that endurance exercises such as a swimming and voluntary wheel running have therapeutic potential in limb muscles of mice and respiratory training was beneficial in humans. However, in the comparatively few long-term investigations, the effect of low-intensity training on cardiac and respiratory muscles was contradictory. In addition, the effect of exercise on other systems is largely unknown.

Conclusions
To safely prescribe exercise as a therapy to DMD patients, multisystemic investigations are needed including the evaluation of respiratory and cardiac muscle.
Bone and Inflammatory Responses to Training in Female Rowers over an Olympic Year
Authors: KURGAN NIGEL , LOGAN-SPRENGER HEATHER , FALK BAREKET , KLENTROU PANAGIOTA 
Published: April 2018

ABSTRACT

Introduction/Purpose
To examine whether fluctuations in training load during an Olympic year lead to changes in bone mineral densities and factors that regulate bone (sclerostin, osteoprotegerin and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand), energy metabolism (insulin-like growth factor-1 and leptin), and inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin 6) in elite heavyweight female rowers.

Methods
Blood samples were drawn from 15 female heavyweight rowers (27.0 ± 0.8 yr, 80.9 ± 1.3 kg, 179.4 ± 1.4 cm) at baseline (T1—45 wk before Olympic Games) and after 7, 9, 20, 25, and 42 wk (T1–6, respectively). Ongoing nutritional counseling was provided. Total weekly training load was recorded over the week before each time point. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry at T1 and T6.

Results
Total BMD increased significantly before to after training (+0.02 g·cm−2), but was below the least significant change (±0.04 g·cm−2). Osteoprotegerin, insulin-like growth factor-1, and leptin remained stable across all time points. Fluctuations in training load (high vs low) were accompanied by parallel changes in tumor necrosis factor-α (2.1 ± 0.2 vs 1.5 ± 0.2 pg·mL−1), interleukin 6 (1.2 ± 0.08 vs 0.8 ± 0.09 pg·mL−1), and sclerostin (high: 993 ± 109 vs low: 741 ± 104 pg·mL−1).

Conclusions
In this population of young female athletes with suitable energy availability, sclerostin and inflammation markers responded to fluctuations in training load, whereas BMD and bone mineral content were stable during the season, suggesting that training load periodization is not harmful for the bone health in athletes.
Comparison of plasma malondialdehyde and glutathione levels between low calorie high protein diet to standard protein in obese individuals with weight cycling – a randomised trial
Authors: Prasetya Septian Ika , Jutamulia Joan , Paranoan Adventia Natali , Witjaksono Fiastuti , Mudjihartini Ninik 
Published: April 2018

Background: Increasing BMI increases the risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Oxidative stress is believed to be the underlying mechanism. A significant proportion of people who have previously succeeded in reducing body weight acquire subsequent weight gain (weight cycling). The current study aimed to evaluate the effects of low calorie diets, either with high or standard protein on plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels in obese people with a history of weight cycling. Methods: A clinical trial was conducted in a worker’s health centre in Jakarta. Participants were assigned to a caloric restriction diet, with two different intervention groups; a high protein/HP group (22-30% of total caloric intake from protein) and a standard protein/SP group (12-20% protein). The diet programme was applied for 8 weeks with daily reminders and weekly counselling. 61 participants were recruited. 54 participants completed the programme but only 15 subjects had their MDA and GSH level measured pre- and post-treatment. Plasma MDA and GSH levels were measured according to Will’s method and Ellman’s method, respectively. Results: The mean changes of MDA levels after completing the diet programme in the HP and SP group were 0.031 + 0.124 and -0.034 + 0.363 nmol/ml plasma, respectively. Meanwhile, the mean changes of GSH levels in the HP and SP group were -0.059 + 0.1673 and -0.034 + 0.363 µg/ml plasma, respectively. No statistical significance were found between the mean difference of plasma MDA and GSH level changes among both groups. Conclusions: Changes in MDA and GSH levels after high protein or standard protein low-calorie diet intervention for 8 weeks were not significantly different. Protein proportion in the low calorie diet does not affect the change in oxidative stress state for obese individuals with weight cycling. Trial registration number: NCT03374150
Comparison of body composition changes between low calorie high protein diet to standard protein in obese individuals with weight cycling – a randomised trial
Authors: Jutamulia Joan , Paranoan Adventia Natali , Prasetya Septian Ika , Mudjihartini Ninik , Witjaksono Fiastuti 
Published: April 2018

Background:The world prevalence of obesity in adult population in 2014 was nearly 13% while in Indonesia, it has reached 32.9% in the same year. Obesity is an established risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. A large proportion of people who had succeeded to reduce body weight failed to maintain it (weight cycling). Studies were inconclusive about the best composition in the diet for such people. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the body composition changes resulted from low calorie high protein and standard protein diet programme in obese people with history of weight cycling.Methods:This is an open-randomized clinical trial of weight loss program as a part of a larger study researching the effect of low calorie high protein diet to body composition, oxidative stress, inflammation marker and metabolic syndrome in obese with weight cycling. A total of 61 adult obese men and women with history of weight cycling were recruited. Subjects were assigned to low calorie diet and were randomly distributed into two intervention groups, namely high protein group (22-30 % of total calories intake) and standard protein group (12-20%). Anthropometry and body composition data were taken at baseline and at the end of the study. Subjects were followed up to 8 weeks with daily reminder and weekly counselling.Results:Fourty five participants completed the study. There were significant reductions in in body weight and body mass index (BMI), fat mass, fat mass percentage, muscle mass, and gain in muscle mass percentage occurred in both groups (Standard protein: P<0.001; High protein: P<0.001 for all variables except for fat mass P= 0,001) with no difference between group (P>0.05).Conclusion:Calories deficit with either high protein or standard protein for 8 weeks brought about significant reduction in body composition
Case Report: Suspicions of metastasis in a patient with transitional cell carcinoma were revealed to be spinal tuberculosis
Authors: Eilami Owrang , Jahanbin Shahla , Nikbakht Gordafarin , Azarifar Faezeh , Jokar Saeid 
Published: April 2018

Background: Infection withMycobacterium tuberculosis(TB) is one of the major causes of mortality in developing countries. TB is primarily a lung disease, but can affect almost every organ of the body. Skeletal TB involves the bones or joints. In this report, we will introduce a patient with a medical history of transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder that presented with spinal tuberculosis (Pott's disease).Case Report:The patient was a 74-year-old man with medical history of TCC of the bladder who had come to hospital due to severe weakness and sprains of lower extremities. Other symptoms noted by the patient included anorexia, weight loss (of 5 kg), and night sweats, but he did not complain of fever, coughs or respiratory symptoms. The lab data were as follows: WBC, 16/9*103; ESR, 88 mm/hr; CRP, 78mg/dl. Radiology findings revealed degenerative process in the L2-L3 lumbar vertebrae and disk. PCR and sample tissue culture results showed the presence ofMycobacterium tuberculosis.Conclusion:In the lesions of the lumbar vertebrae, even if there is another underlying disease, spinal TB should also be considered as a possibility. Furthermore, in patients with any type of cancer, any other organ conflict is not considered as metastasis, and tissue sampling should be provided because a change in the type of disease can influence prognosis.
Handling properties of a superabsorbent dressing in the management of patients with moderate-to-very high exuding wounds
Authors: Münter Karl-Christian , De Lange Stefanie , Eberlein Thomas , Andriessen Anneke , Abel Martin 
Published: April 2018

Objective: Exudate control is an important aspect of wound management in both acute and chronic wounds. Exudate can be an indicator of the wound bed condition, specifically inflammation and infection. This study aimed to evaluate the performance, in terms of usability, handling properties, exudate management, user satisfaction and patient comfort, in daily clinical practice, of a superabsorbent dressing, Vliwasorb Pro (Lohmann & Rauscher), suitable for the management of moderate-to-very high exudate levels. Method: The user test was conducted between September 2016 and July 2017, with clinicians from different specialisms in 55 centres across Germany. Both the dressing and user test were supplied by the sponsor. The superabsorbent dressing was used for at least three dressing changes, with frequency dependent on the patient and wound condition. Results: A total of 55 clinicians recruited 171 patients with various wound types. The clinicians rated dressing application as ‘easy’ for 163 (95.3%) of the patients. The dressing was rated as easy to remove (168 (98.3%) and, according to clinicians, did not soil patients' clothing in 165 (97.1%) of cases. The dressing demonstrated a ‘good absorbent capacity’, as noted by clinicians in 167 (98.2%) of cases. Clinicians also commented that the dressing reduced foul odour, maceration and improved periwound skin condition. Conclusion: The evaluated dressing was easy to use, comfortable and reliable for patients with moderate-to-very high exuding wounds. In view of these results, superabsorbent dressings seem to be interesting for both clinicians and patients. Clinical studies are required to confirm these results.
Pressure ulcer prevalence and perceptions on prevention: a hospital-wide survey of health professionals
Authors: Wong Alison L. , Walia Gurjot S. , Bello Ricardo , Aquino Carla S. , Sacks Justin M. 
Published: April 2018

Objective: Hospital-acquired pressure ulcers (HAPUs) remain a problem despite numerous prevention initiatives. To understand why, it is necessary to know health professionals' perceptions regarding the importance of prevention, and the usability of current initiatives. We hypothesised that positive perceptions of existing initiatives would not be correlated with low HAPU prevalence, and that health professionals would perceive the initiatives to have a low usability. Method: A two-part, online survey was developed and distributed electronically to nurses, in-training physicians and attending physicians, across all inpatient and perioperative departments of an academic hospital. Part one of the survey was the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Staff Attitude Scale on beliefs regarding PU prevention; part two was additional questions on the usability of existing preventative initiatives. The results of the survey were compared with quarterly HAPU prevalence data by hospital unit. Results: In total, 839 health professionals completed the survey (579 nurses, 131 residents, 119 attending physicians). The mean score for the AHRQ survey was 42.5 (≥40 denoting positive perceptions). There was a moderate correlation between AHRQ scores and prevalence of HAPUs (r=–0.60, p=0.402). For usability, repositioning was felt to be the most effective intervention (mean: 4.54, standard deviation (SD): 0.64), while educational posters were felt to be the least effective (mean: 3.31, SD: 0.99). Respondents generally rated satisfaction much lower, with no single initiative significantly better than the others (range: 3.21–3.79). Perceived effectiveness and satisfaction were all positively correlated. Conclusion: High HAPU prevalence, despite position perceptions, suggests that prevention methods are not as effective as thought, or they are not being used as widely as they should. Further research should take advantage of positive attitudes by prospectively investigating the usability of novel interventions.
Continuing Professional Development: Reflecting on our own professional values and behaviours as paramedics
Authors: Donaghy John 
Published: April 2018

Overview Professional values and behaviours of paramedics often influence our clinical performance, as well as our ability to actively and professionally interact with colleagues, patients and the multi-professional healthcare team. This short CPD article explores how our behaviour, and that of colleagues, inform and shape our interactions with people whose values may differ from our own ( Clompus and Albarran, 2016 ).
Assessment Literacy of Secondary EFL Teachers: Evidence from a Regional EFL Test
Authors: Zhang Cong , Yan Xun 
Published: April 2018

Abstract
This study investigated the assessment skills of secondary EFL teachers through analyzing the quality of test items on a municipal English examination for eighth graders in a city located in northern China. Data included students’answers to test items as well as a post-test questionnaire and teachers’ responses to semi-structured interviews. It was found that overall, the test functioned satisfactorily, with most items moderately easy yet discriminating, and high internal consistency and strong correlations among subscale scores. However, item analysis and content review of the test identified some items with incorrect or multiple keys, which may result from a combination of EFL teachers’ inadequate language proficiency and their attempts to write attractive distractors.
Synthesis and characterization of (4-arm-star-PMMA)/PMMA-g-SiO2 hybrid nanocomposites
Authors: Tham Do Quang , Hoang Thai , Giang Nguyen Vu , Kim Dung Nguyen Thi , Chung Ildoo 
Published: April 2018

Abstract
This study provides a route to prepare 4-arm star poly(methyl methacrylate) (4sPMMA)/PMMA grafted SiO2 (PMMA-g-SiO2) hybrid nanocomposites that can be used as 3D printing material and filler for dental materials. First, 4sPMMA was synthesized via atom transfer radical polymerization with low metal catalyst concentration. Modified colloidal silica nanoparticles (MCSPs) were synthesized by grafting 3-methoxypropyl trimethoxysilane (MPS) onto the surface of colloidal silica nanoparticles (CSPs) and then dispersed in the solution of methyl methacrylate monomer in dioxane. The mixture of 4sPMMA and MCSPs solutions was degassed and replaced in an oil bath at 70–75°C; the reaction was continued with α,α′-azobis(isobutyronitrile) as an initiator for 24 h to form 4sPMMA/PMMA-g-SiO2 hybrid nanocomposites. Viscosity measurement showed that viscosity of the hybrid was increased with increasing MPS loading used in modification of CSPs, which verified that PMMA had been grafted onto MCSPs. Fourier transform infrared spectra of the hybrid nanocomposites demonstrated the strong molecular interaction between MCSPs and polymer matrix, and 1H NMR spectra confirmed the formation of PMMA-g-SiO2. Field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images revealed that MCSPs were well dispersed in polymer matrix with the size of about 20–30 nm. Thermal stability of the hybrid nanocomposites was improved compared with PMMA made from free radical polymerization.
Basic pituitary-ovarian hormones and ultrasound parameters of uterine appendages in full-term and preterm neonate girls
Authors: Artymuk Natalia , Yelgina Svetlana I. , Nikulina Elena 
Published: April 2018

Abstract

Objective
To determine the basic pituitary-ovarian hormones and ultrasound parameters of uterine appendages in full-term and preterm newborn girls.

Materials and methods
One hundred full-term and premature newborn girls (58 and 42, respectively) were studied with clinical, instrumental, laboratory (enzyme immunoassay) and statistical methods.

Results
Statistically significant differences in the pituitary-ovarian hormones and ultrasound parameters of uterine appendages in preterm neonate girls compared to full-term girls were defined. The pituitary hormone levels (follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormone levels) were higher in preterm newborn girls [0.15 (0.06–0.53) and 0.06 (0.05–0.08) (p = 0.0001); 0.03 (0.00–0.23) and 0.00 (0.00–0.03), (p = 0.003)]; the ovarian hormone levels (estradiol, anti-Müllerian hormone and inhibin В levels) were lower [0.44 (0.25–0.85) and 1.55 (1.06–1.84) (p = 0.0001); 2.73 (2.12–3.65) and 3.66 (2.59–5.0), (p = 0.026), 60.81 (37.19–128.80) and 104.75 (54.35–159.18), (p = 0.019), respectively]. Ultrasound investigation showed that the ovarian reserve in preterm neonates was smaller compared to the full-term neonates [38.48 (22.01–56.49) and 102.47 (85.36–111.37), (p = 0.0001); 36.95 (25.21–70.59) and 108.05 (91.74–116.44), (p = 0.0001), respectively (p = 0.0001)]. The number of antral follicles in the slice was also statistically significantly smaller [2 – in the right ovary, 1 – in the left ovary, vs. 4 and 4, respectively (p = 0.0001)].

Conclusion
Premature neonates have different pituitary-ovarian hormones and ovarian size compared to full-term babies.
A critical review of integrated grass weed management in Ireland
Authors: Byrne R. , Spink J. , Freckleton R. , Neve P. , Barth S. 
Published: April 2018

AbstractGrass weeds affect arable crops throughout the world, inflicting yield penalties, reducing crop quality and taking available nutrients away from the growing crop. Recently in Ireland, the presence of herbicide resistance in grass weeds has been noted. In order to preserve the sustainability of crop production in Ireland, an integrated pest management approach must be implemented. How this applies to control grass weeds was the focus of this review. Here we examined the state of current research into grass weed biology and the nature of herbicide resistance, identifying gaps in research in the Irish context. We identified a number of cultural grass weed control techniques, as being relevant to the Irish mode of crop production. Crop rotation, cultivation techniques, manipulation of sowing dates and increased crop competition were recognised as useful strategies. Combining these strategies to provide effective grass weed control may be key to reduce dependence on herbicides.
Using photovoice in adolescent health research: a case-study of the Well-being of Adolescents in Vulnerable Environments (WAVE) Study in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Olumide Adesola O. , Adebayo Emmanuel S. , Ojengbede Oladosu A. 
Published: April 2018

Abstract
Photovoice is a participatory action research method in which people are given cameras and asked to take pictures of specific issues within their community. It is often used among marginalised populations. This method helps people capture specific issues within their community using photographs, critically discuss these issues within a group and present their findings to inform policies within their community. Photovoice has been used in developed countries and among adult participants; however, the extent to which it has been used in developing countries and among adolescent participants is yet to be extensively reported. In this paper, we describe the use of photovoice among male and female adolescents aged 15–19 years who participated in the qualitative phase (phase I) of the Well-being of Adolescents in Vulnerable Environments (WAVE) study in Ibadan, Nigeria. The main study was conducted among adolescents residing in disadvantaged communities within five global cities (Baltimore, USA; Ibadan, Nigeria; Johannesburg, South Africa; New Delhi, India and Shanghai, China). Our findings revealed that adolescents in Ibadan were very eager to participate, remained fully engaged throughout the process and the data obtained were rich and detailed. Some challenges encountered with using this method were that younger adolescents had a tendency to attain saturation when taking pictures much earlier than older adolescents; however, they equally discussed the pictures taken enthusiastically. Overall, our findings affirm that photovoice as a data collection method can be successfully used in research among adolescents in developing countries like Nigeria.
Influenza vaccination challenges in an at-risk student population: considerations for health services
Authors: Murray Adelaide R. , Caron Rosemary M. 
Published: April 2018

Abstract

Background:
The American College Health Association’s, National College Health Assessment (ACHA’s NCHA) estimates 46.1% of college students reported being vaccinated in the last year.

Objective:
1) To understand the college student’s knowledge, attitude, and beliefs in regards to influenza vaccination; 2) To establish recommendations in a population where high risk transmission does not consistently translate into high vaccination rates.

Methods:
Utilizing the health belief model (HBM), a cross-sectional study of college student perspectives of influenza vaccination was conducted.

Results:
Student beliefs regarding vaccination-associated illness and the importance of vaccination did influence vaccination behavior. However, student perceptions of being at risk for the flu and the lack of barriers to vaccination were not found to be significant indicators of vaccination behavior.

Conclusion:
For this particular population, vaccination promotion efforts may be most effectively targeted in the sophomore and junior years. Findings of this study inform efforts among University Health Services regarding seasonal flu prevention and vaccination on the college campus.