bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plasma creatinine medians from patients partitioned by gender and age used as a tool for assessment of analytical stability at different concentrations
Authors: Hansen Steen Ingemann , Petersen Per Hyltoft , Lund Flemming , Fraser Callum G. 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background
Monthly medians of patient results are useful in assessment of analytical quality in medical laboratories. Separate medians by gender makes it possible to generate two independent estimates of contemporaneous errors. However, for plasma creatinine, reference intervals (RIs) are different by gender and also higher over 70 years of age.

Methods
Daily, weekly and monthly patient medians were calculated from the raw data of plasma creatinine concentrations for males between 18 and 70 years, males >70 years, females between 18 and 70 years and females >70 years.

Results
The medians of the four groups were all closely associated, with similar patterns. The mean of percentage bias from each group defined the best estimate of bias. The maximum half-range (%) of the bias evaluations provided an estimate of the uncertainty comparable to the analytical performance specifications: thus, bias estimates could be classified as optimum, desirable or minimum quality.

Conclusions
Medians by gender and age are useful in assessment of analytical stability for plasma creatinine concentration ranging from 60 to 90 μmol/L. The daily medians are valuable in rapid detection of large systematic errors, the weekly medians in detecting minor systematic errors and monthly medians in assessment of long-term analytical stability.
Measurement of α-dicarbonyl compounds in human saliva by pre-column derivatization HPLC
Authors: Wang Xin-Jie , Zhang Hong-Xia , Li Heng , Zhu Ai-Hua , Gao Wen-Yun 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background
α-Dicarbonyl compounds (α-DCs) have been detected in body fluids including plasma and urine and elevation of this sort of compounds in vivo has been associated with the development of many kinds of chronic diseases. However whether α-DCs are present in human saliva, and if their presence/absence can be related with various chronic diseases is yet to be determined.

Methods
In this study, a pre-column derivatization HPLC-UV method was developed to measure 3-deoxyglucosone (3-DG), glyoxal (GO), methylglyoxal (MGO), diacetyl (DA), and pentane-2,3-dione (PD) in human saliva employing 4-(2,3-dimethyl-6-quinoxalinyl)-1,2-benzenediamine (DQB) as a derivatizing reagent. The derivatization of the α-DCs is fast and the conditions are facile. The method was evaluated and the results show that it is suitable for the quantification of α-DCs in human saliva.

Results
In the measurements of these α-DCs in the saliva of 15 healthy subjects and 23 type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients, we found that the concentrations of GO and MGO in the saliva of the diabetic patients were significantly higher than those in healthy subjects. As far as we know, this is the first time that salivary α-DC concentrations have been determined and associated with T2DM.

Conclusions
The developed method would be useful for the measurement of the salivary α-DC levels and the data acquired could be informative in the early screening for diabetes.
Heparin and citrate additive carryover during blood collection
Authors: Keppel Martin H. , Auer Simon , Lippi Giuseppe , von Meyer Alexander , Cornes Michael , Felder Thomas K. , Oberkofler Hannes , Mrazek Cornelia , Haschke-Becher Elisabeth , Cadamuro Janne 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background
Published evidence on the risk of additive carryover during phlebotomy remains elusive. We aimed to assess potential carryover of citrated and heparinized blood and the relative volume needed to bias clinical chemistry and coagulation tests.

Methods
We simulated standardized phlebotomies to quantify the risk of carryover of citrate and heparin additives in distilled water, using sodium and lithium as surrogates. We also investigated the effects of contamination of heparinized blood samples with increasing volumes of citrated blood and pure citrate on measurements of sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium, total and ionized calcium and phosphate. Likewise, we studied the effects of contamination of citrated blood samples with increasing volumes of heparinized blood on heparin (anti-Xa) activity, lithium, activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT) and thrombin time (TT). We interpreted these results based on measurement deviations beyond analytical, biological and clinical significance.

Results
Standardized phlebotomy simulations revealed no significant differences in concentration of surrogate markers. Clinically significant alterations were observed after contamination of heparinized blood samples with volumes of citrated blood beyond 5–50 μL for ionized calcium and beyond 100–1000 μL for sodium, chloride and total calcium. Investigations of pure citrate carryover revealed similar results at somewhat lower volumes. Heparinized blood carryover showed clinically significant interference of coagulation testing at volumes beyond 5–100 μL.

Conclusions
Our results suggest that during a standardized phlebotomy, heparin or citrate contamination is highly unlikely. However, smaller volumes are sufficient to severely alter test results when deviating from phlebotomy guidelines.
Paediatric reference intervals for 17 Roche cobas 8000 e602 immunoassays in the CALIPER cohort of healthy children and adolescents
Authors: Bohn Mary Kathryn , Higgins Victoria , Asgari Shervin , Leung Felix , Hoffman Barry , Macri Joseph , Adeli Khosrow 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background
The diagnostic utility of laboratory tests in paediatric medicine relies heavily on the availability of appropriate reference intervals (RIs). The Canadian Laboratory Initiative on Paediatric Reference Intervals (CALIPER) has established a comprehensive database of covariate-stratified RIs for many paediatric laboratory tests using a large, healthy reference population. Several automated analysers in widespread use in clinical laboratories have already been studied. Here, we extend the testing to Roche immunoassays and report, for the first time, comprehensive paediatric RIs for 17 endocrine and special chemistry markers.

Methods
A total of 741 healthy children and adolescents (1 day to <19 years) were recruited and serum samples were analysed for 17 immunoassays on the Roche cobas 8000 e602 Immunoassay Analyzer. Age and sex-specific RIs were established and corresponding 90% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated in accordance with Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines.

Results
Reference values for all analytes measured required age partitioning, particularly during early life and throughout adolescence. Of the 17 analytes measured, eight required sex partitioning, including ferritin, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), total triiodothyronine (TT3) and all fertility/sex hormones, except prolactin.

Conclusions
This is the first study to determine accurate paediatric RIs for Roche immunoassays. RIs were generally similar to those previously published by CALIPER on other analytical platforms, highlighting the reproducibility of age- and sex-specific trends in reference values observed across the paediatric age range. The RIs established in this study will improve the accuracy of test result interpretation and clinical decision-making in clinical laboratories utilising Roche immunoassays.
Synergistic effects of metal hydroxides and fumed nanosilica as fire retardants for polyethylene
Authors: Fredi Giulia , Dorigato Andrea , Fambri Luca , Lopez-Cuesta José-Marie , Pegoretti Alessandro 
Published: August 2019

AbstractThis work aims to study the synergistic effect of aluminum/magnesium hydroxide microfillers and organomodified fumed silica nanoparticles as flame retardants (FRs) for linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), and to select the best composition to produce a fire-resistant polyethylene-based single-polymer composite. The fillers were added to LLDPE at different concentrations, and the prepared composites were characterized to investigate the individual and combined effects of the fillers on the thermo-oxidation resistance and the fire performance, as well as the microstructural, physical, thermal and mechanical properties. Both filler types were homogeneously distributed in the matrix, with the formation of a network of silica nanoparticles at elevated loadings. Melt flow index (MFI) tests revealed that the fluidity of the material was not considerably impaired upon metal hydroxide introduction, while a heavy reduction of the MFI was detected for silica contents higher than 5 wt%. FRs introduction promoted a noticeable enhancement of the thermo-oxidative stability of the materials, as shown by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and onset oxidation temperature (OOT) tests, and superior thermal properties were measured on the samples combining micro- and nanofillers, thus evidencing synergistic effects. Tensile tests showed that the stiffening effect due to a high content of metal hydroxide microparticles was accompanied by a decrease in the strain at break, but nanosilica at low concentration contributed to preserve the ultimate mechanical properties of the neat polymer. The fire performance of the samples with optimized compositions, evaluated through limiting oxygen index (LOI) and cone calorimetry tests, was strongly enhanced with respect to that of the neat LLDPE, and also these tests highlighted the synergistic effect between micro- and nanofillers, as well as an interesting correlation between fire parameters and viscosity.
Design and characterization of flame resistant blended nondrip PA6/Lenzing FR®/PBI fiber nonwoven fabrics
Authors: Yao Lan , Wu Lantao , Wu Hao , Koo Joseph. H. , Krifa Mourad 
Published: August 2019

AbstractIn current thermal protective clothing systems, maximizing the personal protection performance against fire and heat is in great demand. Additionally, minimizing the manufacturing cost by using low-cost materials is also a critical factor. In previous studies [1–3], a new type of low-cost inherently flame resistant (FR) non-drip Polyamide 6 (PA6) nanocomposite fiber was developed. In this paper, this FR non-drip PA6 fiber was tested in blends with two commercially available inherently FR fibers to form FR nonwoven fabrics. Different formulations of varying blending ratios were processed into nonwoven fabrics. The fiber morphology was observed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The fabric flammability and combustion properties were characterized using a Microscale Combustion Calorimeter (MCC), and a vertical flame tester, as well as Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Tensile tests were conducted to characterize mechanical properties of these FR nonwoven fabrics. The water vapor permeability test was also performed to measure the wearability of the fabric. Results of several nonwoven blends were compared to find the one with optimum blend ratio which has the potential to be used as low-cost thermal protective fabric.
Association of irisin and oxidative stress with biochemical parameters in patients with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Hassan Israa Issa , Hassan Alan Bapeer , Rajab Heevi Ameen , Saadi Farsat Saeed , Abdulah Deldar Morad , Abdul Majeed Ayoub Abid , Khaleel Bland Bayar , Taher Sherzad Majeed , Ahmed Idris Haji 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background
Irisin, a hormone-like myokine, is suspected to have a role in metabolic syndrome (MetS) through regulating energy homeostasis and mediating physical activity. In this regard, the role of irisin and malondialdehyde (MDA) along with some other biochemical parameters in the prediction of MetS was examined in the present investigation.

Materials and methods
In the present case-control study, 36 subjects diagnosed with MetS according to International Diabetes Federation were considered as cases and were matched in age and gender with 31 healthy participants. The difference of biochemical indicators between cases and controls were determined whether by independent t-test or the Mann-Whitney U-test. The predictors of MetS and insulin resistance (IR) were examined through logistic and linear regressions analysis models, respectively.

Results
Irisin and MDA were not found to be predictors for MetS in logistic regression; p = 0.258 and p = 0.694, respectively. The IR was found to be the only direct predictor of MetS (p = 0.010). Similarly, in linear regression, irisin and MDA were not identified to be predictors for IR; p = 0.801 and p = 0.781, respectively.

Conclusions
The study did not show that irisin and MDA, directly and indirectly, were predictors of MetS disorder. The IR was only predictor of MetS.
Identifying Indicators of National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) Success in Nursing Graduates in Newfoundland & Labrador
Authors: Pike April D. , Lukewich Julia , Wells Julie , Kirkland Megan C. , Manuel Madonna , Watkins Kathy 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
In Canada in 2015, the pass rates on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) were considerably lower than pass rates on the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination (CRNE) causing nurse educators to express concern regarding the NCLEX-RN. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between candidate variables (e. g. academic performance, demographics) on their NCLEX-RN outcome (pass/fail). A cross-sectional data linkage design was employed using multiple sources of data on nursing graduates who wrote the NCLEX-RN in 2015, 2016 and 2017 (n = 259). Results showed that fewer questions answered on the NCLEX-RN and higher grades in various nursing courses (e. g. Introduction to Nursing, Statistics) predicted higher odds of passing the NCLEX-RN. To improve pass rates, nurse educators must integrate diverse methods of testing into existing curricula that mimic the NCLEX-RN exam, specifically computer adaptive exams. Further research is needed to determine other possible challenges for countries considering adopting the NCLEX-RN.
Becoming a Transformative Nurse Educator: Finding Safety and Authenticity
Authors: Hoeksel Renee , Eddy Linda L , Dekker Lida , Doutrich Dawn 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
The study purpose was to evaluate and strengthen this program’s nursing education curriculum to better prepare and develop future nurse faculty. As the dire nursing faculty shortage increases, the transition of expert nurse clinician to novice educator is receiving more attention. In order to prepare, recruit, and retain the nursing faculty needed to meet the growing nurse shortage, understanding what nurse educators need in order to be successful is essential. Fourteen participants from four focus groups of nurse educators shared stories about their role transition. Two administrators were interviewed to determine what they identified as crucial in hiring new nurse educators. Interpretive analysis focused on identification of themes and possible paradigm cases. Themes that emerged included: a) culture of academia surprises, b) exciting “Aha!” moments, and c) Safety with a capital “S”. These findings were used to strategically revise the entire nurse educator curriculum.
Evaluation of Bachelor’s Degree Nursing Program Assessment by Nurses Working at A University Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study from Turkey
Authors: Yılmaz Dilek , Düzgün Fatma , Yılmaz Derya Uzelli , Dikmen Yurdanur 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the evaluation of integrated program, traditional and problem based programs in nursing by nurses working in a university hospital. The population of the study consisted of the 288 nurses. In the collection of research data, use was made of a Nurses’ Description Form and the Bachelor’s Degree Nursing Program Assessment Scale (BNPAS). It was found that the total mean BNPAS scores of nurses graduating from the integrated educational program were higher than those of nurses graduating from traditional and problem-based learning educational programs (p < 0.05). The total mean BNPAS scores of nurses who followed professional scientific publications after graduation were higher than the scores of those who did not, and the difference was found to be significant (p < 0.05). It was concluded that nurses had positive assessment of the bachelor’s degree programs from which they graduated.
High Speed 2 × 10 Gbps WDM Enabled Inter-Satellite Optical Wireless Communication Link
Authors: Thappa Veena Kumari , Sharma Bindu , Sharma Abhishek 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
Transmission of data between satellites has been revolutionized via the use of Inter-satellite optical wireless communication (Is-OWC). In this work, we evaluate the validation of high speed and long reach Is-OWC system suing return-zero encoding and wavelength division multiplexing. Two channels, each carrying 10 Gbps of information transmits data on Is-OWC link of 2200 Km length. The performance of the proposed system is investigates in terms of bit-error rate, Q-factor and eye patterns.
The relationship between the olfactory bulb and precocious puberty: from the nose to the pituitary
Authors: Karaoglan Murat , Çolakoğlu Er Hale 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background/objective
The olfactory bulb (OB) and pubertal development have a close relationship as they share a common ontogenetic origin. The aim of this study was to analyze the potential relationship between precocious puberty (PP) in girls as a sign of early pubertal timing and their OB volume as an indicator of its functional activity.

Design
In the study group (n = 125), OB volume, pituitary height (PH), body mass index (BMI) and body surface (S) variables were retrospectively investigated in 49 girls included in the PP group and 76 healthy girls constituting the control group. Volumetric and length measurements were performed on a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan by using manual segmentation of slices.

Results
The mean OB volume (73.41 ± 17.21 mm3) and PH (4.96 ± 1.01 mm) were significantly higher in the PP group (p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). The mean volume difference between the right and left bulbs (1.52 ± 1.87) was higher in the PP group (p = 0.03). The body surface (1.05 ± 0.16 m2) was larger in the PP group (p = 0.09). There was a high correlation between the OB volume and PH (r125 = 0.716). There was a moderate correlation between the body surface and OB volume (r125 = 654), and a weak correlation between the former (S) and the PH (r125 = 452).

Conclusions
This study showed that there is a strong correlation between increased OB volume and PH in cases with PP. It indicates that increased OB volume may be a strong clue that olfactory functions play a role in pubertal timing in humans, although it does not show definitive proof of a causal relationship.
The crystal structure of 1,1′-(9-ethyl-9H-carbazole-3,6-diyl)bis(3-ethyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium) bis(hexafluorophosphate(IV)), C24H27N5F12P2
Authors: Shilu Zhang , Bo Zhao , Jiewei Luo 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
C24H27N5F12P2, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 12.395(4) Å, b = 16.630(6) Å, c = 26.899(10) Å, β = 90.395(7)°, V = 5545(4) Å3, Z = 8, R
gt(F) = 0.0650, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1651, T = 113(2) K.
The political attitudes of Krzysztof and Janusz Radziwill towards the election of Wladyslaw IV and Jan Kazimierz. Outline of the problem
Authors: Ziober Aleksandra 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
The attitudes of the elite of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and especially of representatives of Radziwill family (Krzysztof and Janusz) towards the election of the last two Vasas are an interesting problem for deliberations and research, especially taking into account differences in the country’s internal and foreign situation in 1632 and 1648, which determined the activities of mentioned above. This article was mainly intended to discuss the problem connected with the attitudes of the Lithuanian nobility towards the election of a new king and also indicating the role of connections of Wladyslaw IV and Jan Kazimierz with the Jagiellonians in political games. Answering the question of what and how influenced the attitudes and moods among the nobility, their argumentation to support one or other candidate requires many years of research and use of methods developed by other humanities, such as sociology, social psychology or political science.
Structural Visualization of Manuscripts (StruViMan): Principles, Methods, Prospects
Authors: Dirkse Saskia , Andrist Patrick , Wallraff Martin 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
This paper introduces a tool which offers scholars a new way to visualize the structure of manuscripts. The Structural Visualization of Manuscripts (or StruViMan) is a web-based application, developed as part of the Paratexts of the Greek Bible Project, a European Research Council project based in Munich. Drawing on the principles of structural codicology, StruViMan is able to translate the different stages of a manuscript’s development into a visual model based on the codex’s physical, historical layers and aims to facilitate the comparison of manuscripts. It can be used by any web-connected manuscript database from any cultural area and does not require the presence of electronic images. This presentation begins with a short survey of the principles underpinning the tool’s conception and development, followed by a demonstration of how manuscript data from both biblical and non-biblical Greek codices are transformed into interactive, customizable visualizations with varying display modes. We will also touch upon StruViMan’s technical aspects as an open-access web service, available to any software or database able to call its API using the correct parameters. We close with a preview of new features currently under development, including the ability to “reconstruct” a manuscript whose composite parts are presently in different repositories.