bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Flow reduction in high‐flow arteriovenous fistulas improve cardiovascular parameters and decreases need for hospitalization
Authors: Balamuthusamy Saravanan , Jalandhara Nishant , Subramanian Anand , Mohanaselvan Arvindselvan 
Published: December 2015

AbstractHigh output heart failure (HF) and pulmonary hypertension have been demonstrated in patients with prevalent arteriovenous (AV) fistulas. Fistulas with flow >2000 mL/minutes are more likely to induce changes in cardiac geometry and pulmonary artery pressure. The effects of reducing flow in AV access and its implications on HF decompensation and hospitalizations have not been studied. Retrospective analysis of 12 patients who needed hospitalization for acute Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) decompensation with AV access flow of 2 L/minutes (as defined by Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI)) or more were included in the study. All the patients underwent banding of their inflow at the anastomosis with perioperative access flow measurement. Follow‐up period was 6 months. 2D echo was done at 6 months postbanding in addition to access flow and clinical evaluation. Complete data was available for all the 12 patients. Study data was collected on all the 12 patients. Mean age was 64.7 years. The mean access flow pre and postbanding were 3784 mL/minutes and 1178 mL/minutes, respectively (P < 0.001). Eighty percent of the patients had diabetes and 41% had coronary artery disease. There was a statistically significant decrease in cardiac output (pre = 7.06 L/minutes, post = 6.47 L/minutes P = 0.03), pulmonary systolic pressure (pre = 54 mmHg, post = 44 mmHg P = 0.02), left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (pre = 130 g/m2, post = 125 g/m2 P = 0.006) and need for rehospitalization for CHF decompensation. The New York Heart Association (NYHA) staging improved by 1 stage postbanding (P = 0.002). The hospitalization rate was 3.75 ± 1.2 in the 6 months before banding and was decreased to 1.08 ± 1.2 (P = 0.002) postbanding. The hemoglobin level, predialysis systolic blood pressure, calcium phosphorous product and the use of Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System (RAAS) blockade agents and calcium channel blockers were comparable before and after inflow banding. Flow reduction in high flow fistulas are associated with decreased LVMI and pulmonary artery pressures. There is also a significant reduction in the risk for hospitalization due to acute HF and an improvement in NYHA heart failure stage.
Comparative accuracy of the Clearing Technique, CBCT and Micro‐CT methods in studying the mesial root canal configuration of mandibular first molars
Authors: Ordinola‐Zapata R. , Bramante C. M. , Versiani M. A. , Moldauer B. I. , Topham G. , Gutmann J. L. , Nuñez A. , Duarte M. A. Hungaro , Abella F. 
Published: December 2015

AbstractAimsTo compare the accuracy of the clearing technique and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the assessment of root canal configurations using micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) imaging system as the reference standard.MethodologyThirty‐two mesial roots of mandibular first molars, selected on the basis of micro‐CT scans (voxel size: 19.6 μm) and presenting several canal configurations, were evaluated using 2 CBCT scanners (voxels sizes: 120 μm and 150 μm) followed by the clearing technique. Two examiners analysed the data from each method and classified the anatomical configuration of the mesial canal according to Vertucci's system. Data were compared using Fisher's exact and chi‐square tests. Reliability for each assessment was verified by the kappa test, and significance level was set at 5%.ResultsKappa value indicated a high level of agreement between the examiners. Detection of type I configurations was significantly lower in cleared teeth (P < 0.05), whilst type II root canals were detected in all specimens by both tests (P > 0.05). In mesial roots with variable anatomical configurations, CBCT and the clearing method were significantly less accurate than the reference standard (P < 0.05).ConclusionWithin the tooth population studied, accuracy of identifying mesial root canal configuration was influenced greatly by the evaluation method and the type of anatomy. Detection of type I configurations in cleared teeth was significantly lower, whilst type II configurations were detected in all specimens by both methods. In mesial roots with variable anatomical configurations, neither CBCT nor clearing methods were accurate for detecting the actual root canal anatomy.
Heme oxygenase‐1 inhibits basophil maturation and activation but promotes its apoptosis in T helper type 2‐mediated allergic airway inflammation
Authors: Zhong Wenwei , Di Caixia , Lv Jiajia , Zhang Yanjie , Lin Xiaoliang , Yuan Yufan , Lv Jie , Xia Zhenwei 
Published: December 2015

SummaryThe anti‐inflammatory role of heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) has been studied extensively in many disease models including asthma. Many cell types are anti‐inflammatory targets of HO‐1, such as dendritic cells and regulatory T cells. In contrast to previous reports that HO‐1 had limited effects on basophils, which participate in T helper type 2 immune responses and antigen‐induced allergic airway inflammation, we demonstrated in this study, for the first time, that the up‐regulation of HO‐1 significantly suppressed the maturation of mouse basophils, decreased the expression of CD40, CD80, MHC‐II and activation marker CD200R on basophils, blocked DQ‐ovalbumin uptake and promoted basophil apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo, leading to the inhibition of T helper type 2 polarization. These effects of HO‐1 were mimicked by exogenous carbon monoxide, which is one of the catalytic products of HO‐1. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of HO‐1‐modified basophils reduced ovalbumin‐induced allergic airway inflammation. The above effects of HO‐1 can be reversed by the HO‐1 inhibitor Sn‐protoporphyrin IX. Moreover, conditional depletion of basophils accompanying hemin treatment further attenuated airway inflammation compared with the hemin group, indicating that the protective role of HO‐1 may involve multiple immune cells. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that HO‐1 exerted its anti‐inflammatory function through suppression of basophil maturation and activation, but promotion of basophil apoptosis, providing a possible novel therapeutic target in allergic asthma.
Trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccination effectiveness in Australia and South Africa: results from a modelling study
Authors: Milne George J. , Halder Nilimesh , Kelso Joel K. , Barr Ian G. , Moyes Jocelyn , Kahn Kathleen , Twine Rhian , Cohen Cheryl 
Published: December 2015

BackgroundA modelling study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of trivalent (TIV) and quadrivalent (QIV) vaccination in South Africa and Australia.ObjectivesThis study aimed to determine the potential benefits of alternative vaccination strategies which may depend on community‐specific demographic and health characteristics.MethodsTwo influenza A and two influenza B strains were simulated using individual‐based simulation models representing specific communities in South Africa and Australia over 11 years. Scenarios using TIV or QIV, with alternative prioritisation strategies and vaccine coverage levels, were evaluated using a country‐specific health outcomes process.ResultsIn South Africa, approximately 18% fewer deaths and hospitalisations would be expected to result from the use of QIV compared to TIV over the 11 modelled years (P = 0·031). In Australia, only 2% (P = 0·30) fewer deaths and hospitalisations would result. Vaccinating 2%, 5%, 15% or 20% of the population with TIV using a strategy of prioritising vulnerable age groups, including HIV‐positive individuals, resulted in reductions in hospitalisations and mortality of at least 7%, 18%, 57% and 66%, respectively, in both communities.ConclusionsThe degree to which QIV can reduce health burden compared to TIV is strongly dependent on the number of years in which the influenza B lineage in the TIV matches the circulating B lineages. Assuming a moderate level of B cross‐strain protection, TIV may be as effective as QIV. The choice of vaccination prioritisation has a greater impact than the QIV/TIV choice, with strategies targeting those most responsible for transmission being most effective.
Influenza surveillance on ‘foie gras’ duck farms in Bulgaria, 2008–2012
Authors: Marinova‐Petkova Atanaska , Georgiev Georgi , Petkov Todor , Darnell Daniel , Franks John , Kayali Ghazi , Walker David , Seiler Patrick , Danner Angela , Graham Allison , McKenzie Pamela , Krauss Scott , Webby Richard J. , Webster Robert G. 
Published: December 2015

ObjectivesDucks can shed and spread influenza A viruses (IAVs) while showing no disease signs. Our objective was to clarify the role of ‘foie gras’ ducks in the circulation of IAVs in Bulgaria.MethodsMonthly avian influenza surveillance was conducted on 63 ‘foie gras’ duck farms, 52 of which were surveyed throughout the study between November 2008 and April 2012. Virologic and serologic samples were collected and tested. During this time, wild bird samples were collected at major wild bird‐resting areas near the Black Sea coast and Danube River.ResultsThe study showed high isolation frequency of low‐pathogenicity avian influenza viruses. In the raising population (<75 days old), subtypes H3, H4, and H6 were detected monthly and H5 LPAIV, sporadically. Different subtypes (H1, H10, H11) were isolated from the fattening premises (75‐ to 100‐day‐old ducks), suggesting different routes of introduction. Only 6 of the 52 farms that were surveyed both virologically and serologically were influenza‐free throughout the study, possibly due to higher biosecurity measures implemented. No evidence of direct transmission of IAV from wild birds was found. Wild bird surveillance showed low isolation frequency of IAV. IAV prevalence of 0·55% for migratory ducks and 0·53% for migratory geese was estimated in November–December 2011 and January–February 2012, respectively, at two ornithologically important locations near the Black Sea coast.ConclusionsThe ‘foie gras’ duck farms in Bulgaria are an optimal niche where Eurasian‐like IAVs are maintained and reassorted unapparent to farmers and veterinarians.
Dynamic joint pricing and production policy for perishable products
Authors: Feng Lin , Zhang Jianxiong , Tang Wansheng 
Published: December 2015

AbstractA joint dynamic pricing and production problem for perishable products without shortages is considered. The demand rate is price‐dependent and time‐varying. This paper constructs an optimal control model to maximize the total profit under a general nonlinear production cost function. The feature of the optimal joint dynamic pricing and production policy is analyzed by solving the corresponding optimal control problem on the basis of improved Pontryagin's maximum principle. Then, an effective algorithm is designed to obtain the optimal joint policy. The case of the joint static optimal policy is also investigated and compared with the dynamic one. Finally, numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods, and some managerial implications are provided for the management of perishable items.
The role of negative pressure wound therapy in the management of hidradenitis suppurativa: a case report and literature review
Authors: Parrado Raphael , Cadena Manuel , Vergara Arturo , Cadena Diana , Chalela Juan G 
Published: December 2015

AbstractHidradenitis suppurativa (HS), also known as acne inversa, is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory disease affecting skin that bears apocrine glands. It is characterised by the presence of tender subcutaneous nodules that may rupture, resulting in deep dermal abscesses, fibrosis with dermal contractures and induration of the skin. The management of HS is a challenge for physicians as the pathogenesis is not clearly defined and prevents the use and development of directed therapies. Treatment options are oral agents (antibiotics, immunomodulators) and surgical excision. Historically, surgical management has been complicated by difficult closure and high recurrent rates. In the last 10 years, negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has proven to be a great adjunct for wound management as it provides the adequate conditions for wound healing, promotes granulation and helps to control infection. Here, we report a case of severe perineal HS treated with radical excision and NPWT as an adjunct. The patient only had a recurrence 3 years after primary treatment and was surgically treated for cosmetic reasons without any complications. Finally, we present a review of the relevant literature.
Range‐wide phylogeography of the four‐toed salamander: out of Appalachia and into the glacial aftermath
Authors: Herman Timothy A. , Bouzat Juan L. 
Published: December 2015

AbstractAimWe assessed the phylogeography of Hemidactylium scutatum across the entire range of the species, quantifying the diversity of populations, and identifying extrinsic factors that may have generated observed patterns of genetic connectivity and distribution.LocationNorth America.MethodsWe performed DNA sequence analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 gene of 335 samples collected from 79 field locations distributed throughout the species range. Phylogenetic analyses, patterns of haplotype distribution, DNA mismatch distributions, and partial Mantel tests were performed to estimate divergence times of major clades, identify geographical barriers that determined phylogenetic breaks, and describe a potential scenario for the radiation of the species.ResultsPhylogenetic analyses showed deep sequence divergences with strong support for regional monophyletic groups. Patterns of haplotype distribution suggest that both ancient and modern river drainages acted as barriers to dispersal. Two distinct allopatric clades accounted for all sampling sites within glaciated areas of North America yet showed distinct patterns of recolonization. High levels of haplotype diversity were detected in the southern Appalachians, with several members of widely ranging clades as well as other unique, endemic, and highly divergent lineages. Bayesian analyses estimated the common ancestor of all living Hemidactylium at roughly 8 Ma, with the most basal splits confined to the Blue Ridge Mountains.Main conclusionsOur results are consistent with the ‘Out of Appalachia’ hypothesis for the origin of Hemidactylium scutatum, lending further support to the importance of this region as a generator of biodiversity in eastern North America.
Control of dentin/root sensitivity during non‐surgical and surgical periodontal treatment
Authors: Giassin Nantin Panagiota , Apatzidou Danae Anastasia , Solomou Katerina , Mateo Luis R. , Panagakos Fotinos S. , Konstantinidis Antonis 
Published: December 2015

AbstractAimTo determine the efficacy of a desensitizing regimen compared to a control in preventing the occurrence and/or alleviating dentin/root sensitivity (DRS) following non‐surgical (NSPT) and surgical periodontal treatment (SPT).MethodsSeventy‐four chronic‐periodontitis patients (CPP) were randomized into a test group (n = 38) using an in‐office prophylaxis paste and a toothpaste at home both containing 8% arginine and calcium carbonate (Pro‐Argin™ Technology) or into a control group (n = 36) receiving a fluoride‐free prophylaxis paste and a fluoride toothpaste. The examiner applied the assigned paste onto selected teeth for 3 s following NSPT and for 60 s before flap closure. Patients brushed with the assigned toothpaste twice daily throughout the study. DRS to air stimulus was assessed by the Schiff scale (0–3) and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS: 0–100 mm) six times over 17 weeks.ResultsIn the test group, VAS scores significantly decreased at 8, 11 and 17 weeks from baseline (p ≤ 0.003) and Schiff scores at 8 and 11 weeks from baseline (p ≤ 0.014). The control group exhibited significant increases in VAS and Schiff during the study period (p ≤ 0.006). Marked inter‐group differences were noted at all time points (p < 0.001).ConclusionsThe combined use of desensitizing products (8% arginine and calcium carbonate) in‐office and at‐home prevented DRS development and maintained this effect for 17 weeks following NSPT and SPT.
Asymmetry within social groups: division of labour and intergroup competition
Authors: Barker J. L. , Loope K. J. , Reeve H. K. 
Published: December 2015

AbstractSocial animals vary in their ability to compete with group members over shared resources and also vary in their cooperative efforts to produce these resources. Competition among groups can promote within‐group cooperation, but many existing models of intergroup cooperation do not explicitly account for observations that group members invest differentially in cooperation and that there are often within‐group competitive or power asymmetries. We present a game theoretic model of intergroup competition that investigates how such asymmetries affect within‐group cooperation. In this model, group members adopt one of two roles, with relative competitive efficiency and the number of individuals varying between roles. Players in each role make simultaneous, coevolving decisions. The model predicts that although intergroup competition increases cooperative contributions to group resources by both roles, contributions are predominantly from individuals in the less competitively efficient role, whereas individuals in the more competitively efficient role generally gain the larger share of these resources. When asymmetry in relative competitive efficiency is greater, a group's per capita cooperation (averaged across both roles) is higher, due to increased cooperation from the competitively inferior individuals. For extreme asymmetry in relative competitive efficiency, per capita cooperation is highest in groups with a single competitively superior individual and many competitively inferior individuals, because the latter acquiesce and invest in cooperation rather than within‐group competition. These predictions are consistent with observed features of many societies, such as monogynous Hymenoptera with many workers and caste dimorphism.
The ‘Adapted ADAPTE’: an approach to improve utilization of the ADAPTE guideline adaptation resource toolkit in the Alexandria Center for Evidence‐Based Clinical Practice Guidelines
Authors: Amer Yasser Sami , Elzalabany Mahmoud Munir , Omar Tarek Ismael , Ibrahim Afaf Gaber , Dowidar Nabil Lotfy 
Published: December 2015

AbstractRationale, aims and objectivesThe ADAPTE methodology for adaptation of guidelines has been used by many organizations to develop high‐quality clinical practice guidelines. Although it is a valid alternative for de novo development of guidelines, it might demand more time and resources in some institutions. The present study demonstrates the proposed ‘adapted ADAPTE’ methodology to support more clarity, simplicity and practicality. It also aims at avoiding duplication within the process and reducing the resources and time allocated to the CPG adaptation projects.MethodsClinical guidelines' adaptation in the Center for Evidence‐Based Clinical Practice Guidelines at the Alexandria Faculty of Medicine and University Hospitals involves two stages: (1) cross‐sectional or retrospective study to reveal the current practice and prescribing patterns concerning the selected health topic; (2) the ‘adapted ADAPTE’ methodology for CPGs adaptation that was based on the original ADAPTE Process.ResultsThe ‘adapted ADAPTE’ included three modified tools, three new tools based on the original ADAPTE framework and alternatives for four ADAPTE steps to enhance utilization. The finalized adapted CPGs included nine high priority topics for paediatrics and two topics for emergency medicine.ConclusionsThe ADAPTE methodology for guideline adaptation can be customized or ‘adapted’ to the local health care setting and resources. This proposal facilitates supports and improves the utilization and update of the ADAPTE process by CPG programmes or activities in health care organizations. This is of particular importance in health care systems in developing countries with limited resources in the Eastern Mediterranean region like Egypt.
Small but Manifold – Hidden Diversity in “Spumella‐like Flagellates”
Authors: Grossmann Lars , Bock Christina , Schweikert Michael , Boenigk Jens 
Published: December 2015

AbstractColourless, nonscaled chrysophytes comprise morphologically similar or even indistinguishable flagellates which are important bacterivors in water and soil crucial for ecosystem functioning. However, phylogenetic analyses indicate a multiple origin of such colourless, nonscaled flagellate lineages. These flagellates are often referred to as “Spumella‐like flagellates” in ecological and biogeographic studies. Although this denomination reflects an assumed polyphyly, it obscures the phylogenetic and taxonomic diversity of this important flagellate group and, thus, hinders progress in lineage‐ and taxon‐specific ecological surveys. The smallest representatives of colourless chrysophytes have been addressed in very few taxonomic studies although they are among the dominant flagellates in field communities. To overcome the blurred picture and set the field for further investigation in biogeography and ecology of the organisms in question, we studied a set of strains of specifically small, colourless, nonscaled chrysomonad flagellates by means of electron microscopy and molecular analyses. They were isolated by a filtration‐acclimatisation approach focusing on flagellates of around 5 μm. We present the phylogenetic position of eight different lineages on both the ordinal and the generic level. Accordingly, we describe the new genera Apoikiospumella, Chromulinospumella, Segregatospumella, Cornospumella and Acrispumella Boenigk et Grossmann n. g. and different species within them.
Pathophysiology of sinusitis of odontogenic origin
Authors: Taschieri Silvio , Torretta Sara , Corbella Stefano , Del Fabbro Massimo , Francetti Luca , Lolato Alessandra , Capaccio Pasquale 
Published: December 2015

AbstractSinusitis of odontogenic origin, which is frequently encountered in routine otolaryngological and dental clinical practice, has been described as a reactive maxillary inflammation secondary to maxillary tooth infection or trauma to an odontogenic disease of maxillary bone, dental extractions, implant placement, or endodontic treatment impairing the integrity of the Schneiderian membrane. The aim of the present review was to investigate and discuss the most recent pathophysiological findings, predisposing odontogenic factors, microbiology, and the possible involvement of bacterial biofilms (BB) in the development of sinusitis. The narrative literature review showed that there might be a correlation between the bacteria present in pathological teeth in communication with the sinus and those found in infected sinus. The formation of a BB might be also involved in the etiopathogenesis of sinusitis of odontogenic origin. In conclusion, the true origin of odontogenic sinusitis is still unresolved. In clinical terms, the choice of suitable therapy depends on the characteristics of the biofilm. Further microbiological studies are required to better investigate the role of BB.