bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Screening for connective tissue disease-associated antibodies by automated immunoassay
Authors: Willems Philippe , De Langhe Ellen , Claessens Jolien , Westhovens René , Van Hoeyveld Erna , Poesen Koen , Vanderschueren Steven , Blockmans Daniel , Bossuyt Xavier 
Published: January 2018

Abstract

Background:
Antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) are useful for the diagnosis of ANA-associated systemic rheumatic disease (AASRD). The objective of this study was the evaluation of an immunoassay that detects antibodies to a mixture of 17 antigens as an alternative to indirect immunofluorescence (IIF).

Methods:
Nine thousand eight hundred and fifty-six consecutive patients tested for ANAs were tested by IIF and EliA connective tissue disease screen (Thermo-Fisher). Medical records were reviewed for 2475 patients, including all patients that tested positive/equivocal by either test and a selection of 500 patients that tested negative.

Results:
Concordance between IIF and EliA was 83.1%. AASRD was found in 12.8% of IIF-positive patients, 30.2% of EliA-positive patients and 0.4%, 46.6%, 5.8% and 3.0% of patients that tested, respectively, double negative, double positive, single positive for EliA and single positive for IIF. The association with AASRD increased with increasing antibody level. IIF and EliA were positive in, respectively, 90.4% and 69.9% of systemic lupus erythematosus (n=83), 100% and 84.1% of systemic sclerosis (n=63), 86.7% and 93.3% of Sjögren’s syndrome (n=45), 88.2% and 52.9% of polymyositis/dermatomyositis (n=17), and in all cases of mixed connective tissue disease (n=8). The specificity was projected to be 94%–96% for EliA and 86% for IIF. When all AASRDs were taken together, the areas under the curve of receiver operator curves were similar between IIF and EliA.

Conclusions:
The positive predictive value for AASRD was higher for EliA than for IIF, but, depending on the disease, EliA might fail to detect antibodies that are detected by IIF. Combining immunoassay with IIF adds value.
The free-boundary Brakke flow
Authors: Edelen Nick 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
We develop the notion of Brakke flow with free-boundary in a barrier surface. Unlike the classical free-boundary mean curvature flow, the free-boundary Brakke flow must “pop” upon tangential contact with the barrier. We prove a compactness theorem for free-boundary Brakke flows, define a Gaussian monotonicity formula valid at all points, and use this to adapt the local regularity theorem of White [23] to the free-boundary setting. Using Ilmanen’s elliptic regularization procedure [10], we prove existence of free-boundary Brakke flows.
A bio-inspired approach to proline-derived 2,4-disubstituted oxazoles
Authors: Slobodyanyuk Evgeniy Y. , Artamonov Oleksiy S. , Kulik Irene B. , Rusanov Eduard , Volochnyuk Dmitriy M. , Grygorenko Oleksandr O. 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
A convenient four-step approach to the synthesis of (S)-4-alkyl-2-(pyrrolidin-2-yl)oxazoles starting from l-Boc-proline inspired by naturally occurring oxazole-containing peptidomimetics is described. The key step is the cyclization of 1-Boc-N-(1-oxoalkan-2-yl)pyrrolidine-2-carboxamides – aldehyde intermediates which demonstrate low to moderate stability – under Appel reaction conditions. This method furnishes the target compounds with more than 98% ee and in a 17–51% overall yield and has been used at up to a 45-g scale.
Crop Yield and the Quality of Sunflower Seeds in the Use of Fertilizers and Growth Regulation Substances
Authors: Kvashin A. A. , Neshchadim N. N. , Yablonskay E. K. , Gorpinchenko K. N. 
Published: January 2018

AbstractIn the Russian Federation the most favorable area for high and stable yields of sunflower crop is the Northern zone of Krasnodar region. The research was conducted in multivariate experience of long-term stationary monitoring. We researched the effect of doses of mineral fertilizers and furolan on sunflower yield and seed quality. It was found that it is expedient and cost-effective to use small doses of nitrogen fertilizers for sunflower. The expediency of application of plant growth regulator (Furolan) during vegetation is shown. We found that the use of mineral fertilizers and the use of furolan contributed to the activation of growth processes of sunflower plants which led to the formation of optimal plant density. Improving the nutritional status of plants has provided an increase in the leaf area unit. The treatment of sunflower crops on the background of fertilizers N20P30 and the furolan has had a positive impact on the value of photosynthetic potential. Under the influence of mineral fertilizers there was an increase in the dissemination of the sunflower head, weight of seeds and weight of 1000 seeds, which has a positive impact on productivity. With the increase of fertilizer doses, the oil content of seeds increased when compared to the unfertilized variant. The treatment of plants with furolan has not violated the process of accumulation of protein and fat.
Zero-inflated Conway-Maxwell Poisson Distribution to Analyze Discrete Data
Authors: Sim Shin Zhu , Gupta Ramesh C. , Ong Seng Huat 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
In this paper, we study the zero-inflated Conway-Maxwell Poisson (ZICMP) distribution and develop a regression model. Score and likelihood ratio tests are also implemented for testing the inflation/deflation parameter. Simulation studies are carried out to examine the performance of these tests. A data example is presented to illustrate the concepts. In this example, the proposed model is compared to the well-known zero-inflated Poisson (ZIP) and the zero- inflated generalized Poisson (ZIGP) regression models. It is shown that the fit by ZICMP is comparable or better than these models.
Building A High Quality Oncology Nursing Workforce Through Lifelong Learning: The De Souza Model
Authors: Esplen Mary Jane , Wong Jiahui , Green Esther , Richards Joy , Li Jane 
Published: January 2018

AbstractCancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world. Along with increased new cases, cancer care has become increasingly complex due to advances in diagnostics and treatments, greater survival, and new models of palliative care. Nurses are a critical resource for cancer patients and their families. Their roles and responsibilities are expanding across the cancer care continuum, calling for specialized training and support. Formal education prepares nurses for entry level of practice, however, it does not provide the specialized competencies required for quality care of cancer patients. There is urgent need to align the educational system to the demands of the health care system, ease transition from formal academic systems to care settings, and to instill a philosophy of lifelong learning. We describe a model of education developed by de Souza Institute in Canada, based on the Novice to Expert specialty training framework, and its success in offering structured oncology continuing education training to nurses, from undergraduate levels to continued career development in the clinical setting. This model may have global relevance, given the challenge in managing the demand for high quality care in all disease areas and in keeping pace with the emerging advances in technologies.
Perceived Stress Mediates the Associations between Sleep Quality and Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression among College Nursing Students
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Peters Anya , Chen Guanling 
Published: January 2018

AbstractMental illnesses, such as anxiety and depression, are top concerns among college students. Poor sleep quality intensifies the risk of mental illnesses. However, the mechanism for the associations between sleep quality and mental illnesses in college students is not well understood. Online surveys were collected with 242 undergraduate nursing students at a public university in the northeast United States. Multivariate linear regression models suggested that poor sleep quality was associated with an increased risk of symptoms of anxiety (β = 1.08, p < 0.01) and depression (β = 1.00, p < 0.01). Perceived stress mediated the association between sleep quality and symptoms of anxiety by 85.3 %, and mediated the association between sleep quality and symptoms of depression by 60.0 %. This study suggested that in addition to sleep promotion, effective interventions to identify unique stressors in nursing students and facilitate the development of appropriate coping strategies are needed to enhance their mental health and well-being.
Graduate Students’ Experiences: Developing Self-efficacy
Authors: Laurencelle Francine , Scanlan Judith 
Published: January 2018

AbstractThe nurse educator shortage continues without an increase in the numbers of graduate prepared nurses. Studies identified challenges in recruitment of nursing graduate students. No studies explore the experiences of nurses during graduate education. The framework used was Bandura’s self-efficacy theory. The population for this study included 15 nurse educators with a master’s or doctoral degree currently teaching in an undergraduate or graduate program in a western Canadian city. In semi-structured interviews, participants shared their experiences. Two themes emerged from the data: i) the hurdles of learning and ii) being a graduate student. The purpose of this article is to report the findings of faculty members’ experiences as graduate students. Understanding these experiences will help graduate faculty understand how graduate students develop self-efficacy throughout their graduate programs. Moreover, findings of this study will help graduate students succeed in a graduate program. Finally, issues related to recruitment and retention are addressed.
Educating Aboriginal Nursing Students: Responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Report
Authors: Lane Annette , Petrovic Kristin 
Published: January 2018

AbstractA 2015 Canadian report from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission issued two calls for action that specifically challenge nursing education programs: a call to incorporate indigenous knowledge and learning, and a call to reduce health disparities between aboriginals and non-aboriginals. These calls to action raise questions for nurse educators regarding how best to recruit, retain, and educate aboriginal nursing students. A literature review was conducted to examine issues faced by aboriginal students in nursing programs, as well as cultural competence with nurse educators working with aboriginal students. While there is some literature that addresses the need for aboriginal students to successfully complete nursing programs and thus be able to provide effective health care to aboriginal people, the emphasis is largely upon strategies. Although there are some exceptions, these have largely been ineffective. We argue the need to think about thinking in order to improve the effectiveness of these strategies within Canadian programs, as well as nursing programs abroad.
Calcium sensitization mechanisms in detrusor smooth muscles
Authors: Anjum Irfan 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
The contraction of detrusor smooth muscles depends on the increase in intracellular calcium. The influx of calcium from the plasma membrane calcium channels and calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum give rise to intracellular calcium. Under the pathophysiological conditions, the increased sensitivity of regulatory and contractile proteins to calcium also plays an important role in maintaining the spontaneous detrusor smooth muscle activity. Many proteins have been identified to play a role in calcium sensitization. Both the protein kinase C (PKC) and Rho-kinase (ROCK) signaling pathways are responsible for the induction of calcium sensitization in the detrusor smooth muscles. The balance between the myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) and myosin light chain phosphatase (MLCP) regulates the intracellular calcium-contractile force relationship. The inhibition of MLCP by PKC-mediated phosphatase inhibitor (CPI-17) and myosin phosphatase target subunit (MYPT-1) phosphorylation by both the PKC and ROCK are responsible for calcium sensitization in the detrusor smooth muscles. However, the ROCK pathway predominantly participates in the calcium sensitization induction under pathophysiological situations. Many kinases are well known nowadays to play a role in calcium sensitization. This review aims to enlighten the current understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of calcium sensitization with special reference to the PKC and ROCK pathways in the detrusor smooth muscles. It will also aid in the development of new pharmacological strategies to prevent and treat bladder diseases.
A fundamental flaw in the ++AE authenticated encryption mode
Authors: Qahur Al Mahri Hassan , Simpson Leonie , Bartlett Harry , Dawson Ed , Wong Kenneth Koon-Ho 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
In this article, we analyse a block cipher mode of operation for authenticated encryption known as ++AE (plus-plus-AE). We show that this mode has a fundamental flaw: the scheme does not verify the most significant bit of any block in the plaintext message. This flaw can be exploited by choosing a plaintext message and then constructing multiple forged messages in which the most significant bit of certain blocks is flipped. All of these plaintext messages will generate the same authentication tag. This forgery attack is deterministic and guaranteed to pass the ++AE integrity check. The success of the attack is independent of the underlying block cipher, key or public message number. We outline the mathematical proofs for the flaw in the ++AE algorithm. We conclude that ++AE is insecure as an authenticated encryption mode of operation.
An Optical Five Channel Demultiplexer-Based Simple Photonic Crystal Ring Resonator for WDM Applications
Authors: Naghizade S. , Sattari-Esfahlan S. M. 
Published: January 2018

AbstractWe have proposed simple ring resonator 5-channel demultiplexer based on optical channel drop filter analysis that is applicable at third communication window (1550 nm) range. Our proposed base filter is the important part in designing the demultiplexer, inclusive one ring resonator contains one square dielectric rod at core. Demultiplexer structure introduced by arranging five filter with different ring core refractive index. Insomuch every ring core have individual refractive index, thus each ring have diverse resonant wavelength. Numerical results by the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method show quality factor (Q) and transmission efficiency of fundamental channel drop filter are 1038 and 93 %, respectively. It is found that transmission efficiency in designed demultiplexer is more than 90 % for each channel; channel spacing is less than 4.2 nm. The average crosstalk value, total footprint of demutiplexer is −17.85 dB, 689.61 μm2, respectively. Small size with a very simple ring design can be benefit in photonic integrated circuit.
Reference centile curves for wrist circumference for Indian children aged 3–18 years
Authors: Khadilkar Vaman , Chiplonkar Shashi , Ekbote Veena , Kajale Neha , Mandlik Rubina , Khadilkar Anuradha 
Published: January 2018

Abstract

Background:
Childhood obesity and its consequences have reached alarming proportions worldwide and in India. Wrist circumference is emerging as an easily measurable reproducible parameter for screening children at risk of obesity-related morbidities such as hypertension and insulin resistance. The objectives of this study were: (1) to compute age and gender-specific wrist circumference percentiles for 3–18-year-old apparently healthy Indian children and adolescents; (2) to assess the relationship of wrist circumference with measures of obesity and adiposity such as body mass index (BMI), fat percentage and blood pressure (BP) and (3) to suggest age and gender-specific cut-offs for wrist circumference percentile for the risk of hypertension in Indian children and adolescents.

Methods:
This was a cross-sectional study on samples of 10,199 3–18-year-old children (5703 boys) from randomly selected schools from five major cities in India. Height, weight, waist and wrist circumference and BP were recorded. Body composition was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Wrist circumference percentiles were computed using the LMS method.

Results:
The average wrist circumference of boys and girls was 10.4 cm and 10.0 cm at 3 years and increased to 15.1 cm and 13.9 cm, respectively, at 18 years. Compared to their Caucasian counterparts, Indian children’s wrists were smaller. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis derived the 70th percentile of wrist circumference as the cut-off for identifying the risk of hypertension.

Conclusions:
Contemporary cross-sectional reference percentile curves for wrist circumference for 3–18-year-old Indian children are presented. The 70th percentile of the current study is proposed as the cut-off to screen children for cardiometabolic risk factors such as hypertension.
A rare unbalanced Y:autosome translocation in a Turner syndrome patient
Authors: Yao Ruen , Yu Ding , Wang Jian , Wang Xiumin , Shen Yiping 
Published: January 2018

Abstract

Background:
Y:autosome translocations are reported to be associated with male infertility and azoospermia. Female cases with Y:autosome translocation are extremely rare.

Case presentation:
We report a unique case of a rare unbalanced translocation t(Y;13) in a 12-year-old girl with Turner syndrome. Combined cytogenetic testing helped to demonstrate the detail of rare chromosomal structural rearrangement in this patient.

Conclusions:
The presented case showed femaleness phenotype and failure of masculinization with presence of Y chromosome and the SRY gene. She was treated with growth hormone (GH) therapy after confirming the presence of only female internal gonad with laparoscopy.
Four novel mutations of the BCKDHA, BCKDHB and DBT genes in Iranian patients with maple syrup urine disease
Authors: Zeynalzadeh Monica , Tafazoli Alireza , Aarabi Azadeh , Moghaddassian Morteza , Ashrafzadeh Farah , Houshmand Massoud , Taghehchian Negin , Abbaszadegan Mohammad Reza 
Published: January 2018

Abstract

Background:
Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is a rare metabolic autosomal recessive disorder caused by dysfunction of the branched-chain α-ketoacid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) complex. Mutations in the BCKDHA, BCKDHB and DBT genes are responsible for MSUD. The current study analyzed seven Iranian MSUD patients genetically and explored probable correlations between their genotype and phenotype.

Methods:
The panel of genes, including BCKDHA, BCKDHB and DBT, was evaluated, using routine the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-sequencing method. In addition, protein modeling (homology and threading modeling) of the deduced novel mutations was performed. The resulting structures were then analyzed, using state-of-the-art bioinformatics tools to better understand the structural and functional effects caused by mutations.

Results:
Seven mutations were detected in seven patients, including four novel pathogenic mutations in BCKDHA (c.1198delA, c.629C>T), BCKDHB (c.652C>T) and DBT (c.1150A>G) genes. Molecular modeling of the novel mutations revealed clear changes in the molecular energy levels and stereochemical traits of the modeled proteins, which may be indicative of strong correlations with the functional modifications of the genes. Structural deficiencies were compatible with the observed phenotypes.

Conclusions:
Any type of MSUD can show heterogeneous clinical manifestations in different ethnic groups. Comprehensive molecular investigations would be necessary for differential diagnosis.
Comparison between two inhibin B ELISA assays in 46,XY testicular disorders of sex development (DSD) with normal testosterone secretion
Authors: Guaragna-Filho Guilherme , Calixto Antônio Ramos , De Paula Georgette Beatriz , De Oliveira Laurione Cândido , Morcillo André Moreno , De Mello Maricilda Palandi , Maciel-Guerra Andrea Trevas , Guerra-Junior Gil 
Published: January 2018

Abstract

Background:
Inhibin B is a hormone produced by the Sertoli cells that can provide important information for the investigation of disorders of sex development (DSD) with 46,XY karyotype. The aim of this study is to compare two enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assays for dosage of serum inhibin B in patients with 46,XY DSD with normal testosterone secretion.

Methods:
Twenty-nine patients with 46,XY DSD and normal testosterone secretion (partial androgen insensitivity syndrome [PAIS] [n=8]; 5α-reductase deficiency [n=7] and idiopathic 46,XY DSD [n=14]) were included. Molecular analysis of the AR and SRD5A2 genes were performed in all patients and the NR5A1 gene analysis in the idiopathic group. Measurements of inhibin B were performed by two second-generation ELISA assays (Beckman-Coulter and AnshLabs). Assays were compared using the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the Bland-Altman method.

Results:
ICC was 0.915 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.828–0.959], however, a discrepancy was observed between trials, which is more evident among higher values when analyzed by the Bland-Altman method.

Conclusions:
It is recommended to perform the inhibin B measurement always using the same ELISA kit when several evaluations are required for a specific patient.
Management of thyrotoxicosis in children and adolescents: 35 years’ experience in 304 patients
Authors: Azizi Fereidoun , Amouzegar Atieh 
Published: January 2018

Abstract

Background:
Diffuse toxic goiter accounts for about 15% of all childhood thyroid diseases. There is great controversy over the management of Graves’ disease in children and adolescents. This article reports our experience in 304 children and juvenile patients with Graves’ disease.

Methods:
Between 1981 and 2015, 304 patients aged 5–19 years with diffuse toxic goiter were studied, of whom 296 patients were treated with antithyroid drugs (ATD) for 18 months. Patients with persistent or relapsed hyperthyroidism who refused ablative therapy with surgery or radioiodine were managed with continuous methimazole (MMI) treatment.

Results:
In 304 patients (245 females and 59 males), the mean age was 15.6±2.6 years. After 18 months of ATD therapy, 37 remained in remission and of the 128 who relapsed, two, 29 and 97 patients chose surgery, continuous ATD and radioiodine therapy, respectively. Of the 136 patients who received radioiodine, 66.2% became hypothyroid. Twenty-nine patients received continuous ATD therapy for 5.7±2.4 years. The mean MMI dose was 4.6±12 mg daily, no serious complications occurred and all of them remained euthyroid during the follow-up. Less abnormal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) values were observed in these patients, as compared to patients who were on a maintenance dose of levothyroxine after radioiodine induced hypothyroidism.

Conclusions:
Original treatment with ATD and subsequent radioiodine therapy remain the mainstay of treatment for juvenile hyperthyroidism. Continuous ATD administration may be considered as another treatment modality for hyperthyroidism.