bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Increased expression of the sonic hedgehog and vascular endothelial growth factor with co-localization in varicocele veins
Authors: Wang Shih-Ho , Yang Wen-Kai , Lee Jane-Dar 
Published: February 2016

Objectives Varicocele is characterized by dilatation and tortuosity of the internal spermatic vein. Sonic hedgehog plays an important role in angiogenesis and vascular remodeling under hypoxic stress. We studied the relationship and distribution of SHH and vascular endothelial growth factor in internal spermatic vein in patients diagnosed with varicocele. Methods Specimens of 1 cm were taken from the internal spermatic vein during left varicocele repair (N = 20). The control samples of ISV were obtained from eight male patients who underwent left inguinal herniorrhaphy. We analyzed the sonic hedgehog and vascular endothelial growth factor expression and distribution by immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescent staining, and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The data were analyzed using the Student’s t test. Results Immunoblotting showed higher expression of sonic hedgehog and vascular endothelial growth factor proteins in varicocele veins than in the control group ( P < 0.05) which located over muscle layer and endothelium was demonstrated by immunohistochemical staining. Both proteins with co-localization in the muscle layer and especially distributed in endothelium of varicocele veins were revealed under confocal microscopy. Conclusions These findings showed the upexpression of sonic hedgehog and vascular endothelial growth factor with co-localization in varicocele veins which imply that the reducing hypoxia or using sonic hedgehog antagonists may be helpful for this vascular disease.
In vitro models of the blood–brain barrier: An overview of commonly used brain endothelial cell culture models and guidelines for their use
Authors: Helms Hans C , Abbott N Joan , Burek Malgorzata , Cecchelli Romeo , Couraud Pierre-Olivier , Deli Maria A , Förster Carola , Galla Hans J , Romero Ignacio A , Shusta Eric V , Stebbins Matthew J , Vandenhaute Elodie , Weksler Babette , Brodin Birger 
Published: February 2016

The endothelial cells lining the brain capillaries separate the blood from the brain parenchyma. The endothelial monolayer of the brain capillaries serves both as a crucial interface for exchange of nutrients, gases, and metabolites between blood and brain, and as a barrier for neurotoxic components of plasma and xenobiotics. This “blood-brain barrier” function is a major hindrance for drug uptake into the brain parenchyma. Cell culture models, based on either primary cells or immortalized brain endothelial cell lines, have been developed, in order to facilitate in vitro studies of drug transport to the brain and studies of endothelial cell biology and pathophysiology. In this review, we aim to give an overview of established in vitro blood–brain barrier models with a focus on their validation regarding a set of well-established blood–brain barrier characteristics. As an ideal cell culture model of the blood–brain barrier is yet to be developed, we also aim to give an overview of the advantages and drawbacks of the different models described.
Cognitive–Behavioral Therapies for Young People in Outpatient Treatment for Nonopioid Drug Use
Authors: Filges Trine , Jorgensen Anne-Marie Klint 
Published: February 2016

Objectives: This review evaluates the evidence on the effects of cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) on drug use reduction for young people in treatment for nonopioid drug use. Method: We followed Campbell Collaboration guidelines to conduct a systematic review of randomized and nonrandomized trials. Meta-analytic methods were used to quantitatively synthesize study results. Results: The search yielded seven studies that met inclusion criteria. Each of the seven studies compared CBT to another intervention. Authors’ Conclusions: The review found that there was no evidence that CBT interventions perform better or worse than the comparison interventions and additional research is needed. The number of studies included in this review was limited, and therefore should the overall results be interpreted with caution.
Clinical characterisation of polydactyly in Maine Coon cats
Authors: Hamelin Alexia , Begon Dominique , Conchou Fabrice , Fusellier Marion , Abitbol Marie 
Published: February 2016

Objectives Polydactyly has been reported in a number of vertebrate species, including the domestic cat. It is a common characteristic in some breeding lines of the Maine Coon. The aim of this study was to assess the limb phenotype of polydactyl cats using physical and radiographic examinations. Methods We used physical examination and radiography to characterise the polydactyly phenotype in a cohort of 70 Maine Coon cats, including 48 polydactyl cats from four different breeding lines from Europe, Canada and the USA. Results The phenotypic expression of polydactyly showed great variability, not only in digit number and conformation, but also in the structure of the carpus and tarsus. Comparison of the size of the radius in polydactyl and non-polydactyl 3-month-old kittens and adult females did not reveal any difference between polydactyl and non-polydactyl cats. Conclusions and relevance We conclude that polydactyly in Maine Coon cats is characterised by broad phenotypic diversity. Polydactyly not only affects digit number and conformation, but also carpus and tarsus conformation, with no apparent deleterious consequence on feline welfare.
Revisiting the 4-M model: Codeswitching and morpheme election at the abstract level
Authors: Myers-Scotton Carol M , Jake Janice L 
Published: February 2016

Purpose: This paper offers an overview of the 4-M model from its inception, but pays special attention to how the characterization of morpheme types in the model has evolved. A new proposal is that the level at which morpheme types are “elected” in an abstract model of language production is a critical factor in predicting morpheme distribution across languages in bilingual data. Methodology: A new addition to the model, the Variable Election Hypothesis, predicts which language is likely to be the source of morphemes in certain structures in bilingual speech, based on how they are elected. Data and analysis: Data from available codeswitching literature illustrate the classification of morphemes according to the 4-M model and test this new hypothesis. Much of the analysis focuses on the role of Embedded Language nonfinite verb forms and the structure of mixed determiner phrases (DPs), as well as subordinators in codeswitching data. Findings: Both the 4-M model and the Variable Election Hypothesis make predictions for the source and relative frequency of morpheme types observed in the codeswitching literature. The paper provides evidence that, in bilingual constituents in codeswitching, the frequency of certain morpheme types depends on how they are elected at an abstract level of language production. Originality: The emphasis on the abstract nature of morphemes constitutes a new approach to studying language contact. Implications: These predictions could also apply to other types of contact data, such as borrowing and creole development.
Quality of care for infertility patients. An evaluation of a plan for a hospital investigation
Authors: Sundby Johanne , Olsen Anne , Schei Berit 
Published: February 2016

Aim of study. In this study we assessed the quality of health care for infertile patients as expressed by the patients themselves. The implementation of the existing structured plan for infertility investigation and treatment was also reviewed. Design and data. The sample consisted of all 361 women registered with an infertility diagnosis during 1982 at Riks-hospitalet. Their medical records were reviewed in 1988. The process and outcome of the investigation as it appeared was analyzed for each individual patient. A structured questionnaire was distributed to the patients in 1988 and 72.6% responded. The questions included several items on outcome and personal experience of the treatment in the hospital. Results. Data from the medical records show that the medical investigation lasted three years on average. The records often showed evidence of discontinuity of the process. The mean number of consultations was eight (range 1–28). An average of one new doctor for each consultation was involved in the investigation. One third of the patients left the investigation without a noted definite termination of the treatment process. According to the questionnaire around 40% had delivered at least one child, while 30% had adopted. Of those who got a biological child, two thirds were satisfied with the clinical treatment efforts of the medical staff. Less than half of those who did not become pregnant were satisfied. Independent of outcome, 70% were dissatisfied with the emotional support during the investigations, and nearly 90% felt that waiting lists were too long. More than half expressed a need for professional psychological counselling. Conclusions. The study shows that medical records and service organizations do not meet the need for continuity in treatment nor research and evaluation requirements. We suggest that more emphasis should be devoted to planning of the services. They should be improved with regard to quality in medical handling as well as emotional counselling.
How do community pharmacists make decisions? Results of an exploratory qualitative study in Ontario
Authors: Gregory Paul A.M. , Whyte Brenna , Austin Zubin 
Published: February 2016

Background: As the complexity of pharmacy practice increases, pharmacists are required to make more decisions under ambiguous or information-deficient conditions. There is scant literature examining how pharmacists make decisions and what factors or values influence their choices. The objective of this exploratory research was to characterize decision-making patterns in the clinical setting of community pharmacists in Ontario. Methods: The think-aloud decision-making method was used for this study. Community pharmacists with 3 or more years’ experience were presented with 2 clinical case studies dealing with challenging situations and were asked to verbally reason through their decision-making process while being probed by an interviewer for clarification, justification and further explication. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed using a protocol analysis method. Results and Discussion: A total of 12 pharmacists participated in this study. Participants experienced cognitive dissonance in attempting to reconcile their desire for a clear and confrontation-free conclusion to the case discussion and the reality of the challenge presented within each case. Strategies for resolving this cognitive dissonance included strong emphasis on the educational (rather than decision-making) role of the pharmacist, the value of strong interpersonal relationships as a way to avoid conflict and achieve desired outcomes, the desire to seek external advice or defer to others’ authority to avoid making a decision and the use of strict interpretations of rules to avoid ambiguity and contextual interpretation. This research was neither representative nor generalizable but was indicative of patterns of decisional avoidance and fear of assuming responsibility for outcomes that warrant further investigation. Conclusion: The think-aloud method functioned effectively in this context and provided insights into pharmacists’ decision-making patterns in the clinical setting. Can Pharm J (Ott) 2016;149:90-98.
Transplantation of Scaffold-Free Cartilage-Like Cell-Sheets Made from Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Cartilage Repair
Authors: Itokazu Maki , Wakitani Shigeyuki , Mera Hisashi , Tamamura Yoshihiro , Sato Yasushi , Takagi Mutsumi , Nakamura Hiroaki 
Published: February 2016

Objective The object of this study was to determine culture conditions that create stable scaffold-free cartilage-like cell-sheets from human bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) and to assess their effects after transplantation into osteochondral defects in nude rats. Design (Experiment 1) The hBMSCs were harvested from 3 males, the proliferative and chondrogenic capacities were assessed at passage 1, and the cells were expanded in 3 different culture conditions: (1) 5% fetal bovine serum (FBS), (2) 10% FBS, and (3) 5% FBS with fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2). The cells were harvested and made chondrogenic pellet culture. The cell proliferation rate, glycosaminoglycan/DNA ratio, and safranin-O staining intensity of pellets cultured condition 3 were higher than those of conditions 1 and 2. (Experiment 2) The hBMSCs were expanded and passaged 3 times under culture condition 3, and fabricate the cell-sheets in chondrogenic medium either with or without FBS. The cell-sheets fabricated with FBS maintained their size with flat edges. (Experiment 3) The cell-sheets were transplanted into osteochondral defects in nude rats. Histological analysis was performed at 2, 4, and 12 weeks after surgery. Results The osteochondral repair was better after sheet transplantation than in the control group and significantly improved Wakitani score. Immunostaining with human-specific vimentin antibody showed that the transplanted cells became fewer and disappeared at 12 weeks. Conclusions These results indicate that culture with FGF-2 may help to quickly generate sufficient numbers of cells to create stable and reliable scaffold-free cartilage-like cell-sheets, which contribute to the regeneration of osteochondral defects.
Chondral Rib Fractures in Professional American Football
Authors: McAdams Timothy R. , Deimel Jay F. , Ferguson Jeff , Beamer Brandon S. , Beaulieu Christopher F. 
Published: February 2016

Background: Although a recognized and discussed injury, chondral rib fractures in professional American football have not been previously reported in the literature. There currently exists no consensus on how to identify and treat these injuries or the expected return to play for the athlete. Purpose: To present 2 cases of chondral rib injuries in the National Football League (NFL) and discuss the current practice patterns for management of these injuries among the NFL team physicians. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Two cases of NFL players with chondral rib injuries are presented. A survey regarding work-up and treatment of these injuries was completed by team physicians at the 2014 NFL Combine. Our experience in identifying and treating these injuries is presented in conjunction with a survey of NFL team physicians’ experiences. Results: Two cases of rib chondral injuries were diagnosed by computed tomography (CT) and treated with rest and protective splinting. Return to play was 2 to 4 weeks. NFL Combine survey results show that NFL team physicians see a mean of 4 costal cartilage injuries per 5-year period, or approximately 1 case per year per team. Seventy percent of team physicians use CT scanning and 43% use magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosis of these injuries. An anesthetic block is used acutely in 57% and only electively in subsequent games by 39%. Conclusion: A high index of suspicion is necessary to diagnose chondral rib injuries in American football. CT scan is most commonly used to confirm diagnosis. Return to play can take up to 2 to 4 weeks with a protective device, although anesthetic blocks can be used to potentially expedite return. Clinical Relevance: Chondral rib injuries are common among NFL football players, while there is no literature to support proper diagnosis and treatment of these injuries or expected duration of recovery. These injuries are likely common in other contact sports and levels of competition as well. Our series combined with NFL team physician survey results can aid team physicians in identifying these injuries, obtaining useful imaging, and counseling players and coaches and the expected time of recovery.
Sleep clinical record: what differences in school and preschool children?
Authors: Villa Maria Pia , Shafiek Hanaa , Evangelisti Melania , Rabasco Jole , Cecili Manuela , Montesano Marilisa , Barreto Mario 
Published: February 2016

The sleep clinical record (SCR) may be a valid method for detecting children with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). This study aimed to evaluate whether there were differences in SCR depending on age and to identify the possible risk factors for OSA development.We enrolled children with sleep disordered breathing between 2013 and 2015, and divided them according to age into preschool- and school-age groups. All patients underwent SCR and polysomnography.OSA was detected in 81.1% and 83.6% of preschool- and school-age groups, respectively. Obesity, malocclusions, nasal septal deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy were significantly more prevalent in school-age children (p<0.05); however, only tonsillar hypertrophy had significant hazard ratio (2.3) for OSA development. Saddle nose, nasal hypotonia, oral breathing and tonsillar hypertrophy were significantly more prevalent for development of OSA in preschoolers (p<0.03). The SCR score was significantly higher among preschool children than in school-age children (8.4±2.22versus7.9±2.6; p=0.044). Further, SCR score >6.5 had a sensitivity of 74% in predicting OSA in preschool children with positive predictive value of 86% (p=0.0001).Our study confirms the validity of the SCR as a screening tool for patient candidates for a PSG study for suspected OSA, in both school and preschool children.
Women’s and men’s responses to in-work benefits: the influence of children
Authors: Andrén Daniela , Andrén Thomas 
Published: February 2016

Abstract
This study examines how the Swedish earned income tax credit (EITC) introduced in 2007 affected the labor supply of men and women living in two-adult households and the extent to which children in the household affected the outcome. Because the EITC is non-targeted in Sweden, it is difficult to form a meaningful comparison group for a regular ex-post quasi-experimental evaluation of the reform. Therefore, a structural discrete choice labor supply model for two-adult households is formulated and used in an ex ante analysis. In a first step, estimates from the structural labor supply model are used to determine the wage elasticities of the labor supply of men and women separately, both with and without children in the household. Our results correspond to those previously reported in the academic literature: somewhat larger wage elasticities are found for women than for men, while similar labor supply responses are found for men and women when there are no children in the household. In a second step, the labor supply model is used to simulate the labor supply responses to the EITC. Our results indicate that the largest response is on the extensive margin, with an increase in the labor force participation of both men and women. While the labor supply effect on the intensive margin is smaller, it is positive for both men and women working part-time. However, the presence of children affects work hours differently for men and women working part-time or not at all. For men, the percentage change in the work hours was much higher for those living in a household without children, whereas for women, the changes are almost the same for the two types of households.
Macrophage migration inhibitory factor drives neutrophil accumulation by facilitating IL-1β production in a murine model of acute gout
Authors: Galvão Izabela , Dias Ana Carolina Fialho , Tavares Livia Duarte , Rodrigues Irla Paula Stopa , Queiroz-Junior Celso Martins , Costa Vivian Vasconcelos , Reis Alesandra Corte , Ribeiro Oliveira Rene Donizeti , Louzada-Junior Paulo , Souza Daniele Glória , Leng Lin , Bucala Richard , Sousa Lirlândia Pires , Bozza Marcelo Torres , Teixeira Mauro Martins , Amaral Flávio Almeida 
Published: February 2016

Abstract
This study evaluated the role of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in inflammation caused by monosodium urate crystals. The concentration of macrophage migration inhibitory factor was increased in synovial fluid of patients with acute gout, and there was a positive correlation between intra-articular macrophage migration inhibitory factor and IL-1β concentrations. In mice, the injection of monosodium urate crystals into the knee joint increased the levels of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in macrophages and in inflamed tissue. The injection of recombinant macrophage migration inhibitory factor into the joint of mice reproduced the inflammatory response observed in acute gout, including histologic changes, the recruitment of neutrophils, and increased levels of IL-1β and CXCL1. Importantly, the accumulation of neutrophils and the amount IL-1β in the joints were reduced in macrophage migration inhibitory factor-deficient mice when injected with monosodium urate crystals. We observed a similar effect when we blocked macrophage migration inhibitory factor with (S,R)-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-5-isoxazole acetic acid or anti-macrophage migration inhibitory factor. In addition, the blockade of IL-1R and CXCR2 reduced recombinant macrophage migration inhibitory factor-induced neutrophil recruitment. Mechanistically, recombinant macrophage migration inhibitory factor is important for the synthesis of il1β mRNA in vivo and in isolated macrophages. Altogether, macrophage migration inhibitory factor promotes neutrophil accumulation and is important for IL-1β production, which are 2 crucial events contributing to the pathogenesis of acute gout.
A Transient Metabolic Recovery from Early Life Glucose Intolerance in Cystic Fibrosis Ferrets Occurs During Pancreatic Remodeling
Authors: Yi Yaling , Sun Xingshen , Gibson-Corley Katherine , Xie Weiliang , Liang Bo , He Nan , Tyler Scott R. , Uc Aliye , Philipson Louis H. , Wang Kai , Hara Manami , Ode Katie Larson , Norris Andrew W. , Engelhardt John F. 
Published: February 2016

AbstractCystic fibrosis (CF)-related diabetes in humans is intimately related to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, yet little is known about how these 2 disease processes simultaneously evolve in CF. In this context, we examined CF ferrets during the evolution of exocrine pancreatic disease. At 1 month of age, CF ferrets experienced a glycemic crisis with spontaneous diabetic-level hyperglycemia. This occurred during a spike in pancreatic inflammation that was preceded by pancreatic fibrosis and loss of β-cell mass. Surprisingly, there was spontaneous normalization of glucose levels at 2–3 months, with intermediate hyperglycemia thereafter. Mixed meal tolerance was impaired at all ages, but glucose intolerance was not detected until 4 months. Insulin secretion in response to hyperglycemic clamp and to arginine was impaired. Insulin sensitivity, measured by euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp, was normal. Pancreatic inflammation rapidly diminished after 2 months of age during a period where β-cell mass rose and gene expression of islet hormones, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ, and adiponectin increased. We conclude that active CF exocrine pancreatic inflammation adversely affects β-cells but is followed by islet resurgence. We predict that very young humans with CF may experience a transient glycemic crisis and postulate that pancreatic inflammatory to adipogenic remodeling may facilitate islet adaptation in CF.