bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Performance characteristics of serum C4 and FGF19 measurements to exclude the diagnosis of bile acid diarrhoea in IBS‐diarrhoea and functional diarrhoea
Authors: Vijayvargiya P. , Camilleri M. , Carlson P. , Lueke A. , O'Neill J. , Burton D. , Busciglio I. , Donato L. 
Published: July 2017

SummaryBackgroundThe serum biomarkers, elevated 7αC4 (C4) and decreased FGF19, have been proposed as screening tests for bile acid diarrhoea.AimTo analyse prevalence, specificity and reproducibility of fasting C4 and FGF19 in identifying bile acid diarrhoea in patients with irritable bowel syndrome with predominant diarrhoea or functional diarrhoea (summarised as IBS‐D).MethodsWe prospectively studied fasting serum C4 and FGF19 in 101 IBS‐D patients; we reviewed data from 37 of the 101 patients with prior fasting serum C4 and FGF19 and from 30 of the 101 patients with prior faecal bile acids per 48 hours. We compared results with normal values (C4 ≥52.5 ng/mL [n=184], FGF‐19 ≤61.7 pg/mL [n=50]). We used Spearman correlation and Bland‐Altman plots to appraise reproducibility.ResultsAmong the 101 patients, there was a negative correlation between serum C4 and FGF19 (Rs=−.342, P=.0005). Bile acid diarrhoea was diagnosed in 10 patients based on elevated serum C4 levels (mean 23.5±23.1 [SD] ng/mL) and 21 patients based on decreased FGF19 levels (121.6±84.2 pg/mL). With replicate tests in patients with stable IBS‐D, 78% of C4 and 70% of FGF19 measurements remained concordant, with 3% and 11% respectively consistently positive for bile acid diarrhoea in the 101 patients. Compared to 48 hours faecal bile acids, specificity for C4 and FGF19 was 83% and 78%, respectively. Bland‐Altman plots demonstrated greater reliability of C4 than FGF19.ConclusionsAmong 101 patents with IBS‐D, fasting FGF19 and C4 levels had good specificity and negative predictive value, suggesting utility as screening tests to exclude bile acid diarrhoea.
Tranexamic Acid in Total Knee Arthroplasty: Mixed Treatment Comparisons and Recursive Cumulative Meta‐Analysis of Randomized, Controlled Trials and Cohort Studies
Authors: Sridharan Kannan , Sivaramakrishnan Gowri 
Published: July 2017

AbstractTranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to be effective in patients with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in clinical studies with no consensus with regard to the most appropriate route of administration. We conducted a network meta‐analysis to compare the evidence available on efficacy and safety of TXA in TKA. Electronic databases were searched for randomized, clinical trials and cohort studies that evaluated TXA in TKA. Publication bias, risk of bias and inconsistencies were assessed. Direct and indirect comparisons were carried out for blood transfusion rate and incidence of thrombotic complications. Sensitivity analyses and grading of evidence were performed for key comparisons. A cumulative meta‐analysis was conducted for comparisons that had a minimum of 10 included studies. A total of 19 studies with 8916 participants were pooled for this network meta‐analysis. No inconsistencies and publication bias were observed. Low risk of bias was observed for the majority of the included studies. When compared to placebo, the pooled estimates for mixed treatment analyses favoured (in the order of higher ranking) the combined pre‐operative oral and topical TXA, intra‐operative intravenous TXA with topical TXA, pre‐operative intravenous TXA, intra‐operative and post‐operative intravenous TXA, intra‐operative intravenous bolus and topical TXA. Additionally, combined intravenous and topical TXA performed better than topical TXA alone. No significant changes were observed in the sensitivity analyses. No significant differences were observed in the risk of thrombotic complications between the interventions. TXA is efficacious and safe in patients with TKA. The combined topical and intra‐operative intravenous TXA may perform better.
Regulating approaches to learning: Testing learning strategy convergences across a year at university
Authors: Fryer Luke K. , Vermunt Jan D. 
Published: July 2017

BackgroundContemporary models of student learning within higher education are often inclusive of processing and regulation strategies. Considerable research has examined their use over time and their (person‐centred) convergence. The longitudinal stability/variability of learning strategy use, however, is poorly understood, but essential to supporting student learning across university experiences.AimsDevelop and test a person‐centred longitudinal model of learning strategies across the first‐year university experience.MethodsJapanese university students (n = 933) completed surveys (deep and surface approaches to learning; self, external, and lack of regulation) at the beginning and end of their first year. Following invariance and cross‐sectional tests, latent profile transition analysis (LPTA) was undertaken.ResultsInitial difference testing supported small but significant differences for self‐/external regulation. Fit indices supported a four‐group model, consistent across both measurement points. These subgroups were labelled Low Quality (low deep approaches and self‐regulation), Low Quantity (low strategy use generally), Average (moderate strategy use), and High Quantity (intense use of all strategies) strategies. The stability of these groups ranged from stable to variable: Average (93% stayers), Low Quality (90% stayers), High Quantity (72% stayers), and Low Quantity (40% stayers). The three largest transitions presented joint shifts in processing/regulation strategy preference across the year, from adaptive to maladaptive and vice versa.ConclusionsPerson‐centred longitudinal findings presented patterns of learning transitions that different students experience during their first year at university. Stability/variability of students’ strategy use was linked to the nature of initial subgroup membership. Findings also indicated strong connections between processing and regulation strategy changes across first‐year university experiences. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
The use of virtual patient scenarios as a vehicle for teaching professionalism
Authors: Marei H. F. , Al‐Eraky M. M. , Almasoud N. N. , Donkers J. , Van Merrienboer J. J. G. 
Published: July 2017

AbstractObjectivesThis study aimed to measure students’ perceptions of virtual patient scenarios (VPs) for developing ethical reasoning skills and to explore features in VP design that are necessary to promote professionalism.MethodsSixty‐five dental students participated in learning sessions that involved collaborative practice with five VPs (four high fidelity and one low fidelity), followed by reflection sessions. Students’ perceptions towards the use of VPs in developing ethical reasoning skills were assessed using a questionnaire that involved 10 closed and three open‐ended questions.ResultsHigh‐fidelity VPs were perceived as significantly better for developing ethical reasoning skills than low‐fidelity VPs. Analyses of answers to open‐ended questions revealed two new features that are specific for VPs intended for teaching professionalism, which are VP dramatic structure and how it should end.ConclusionVPs intended for teaching professionalism need to have high fidelity, follow a specific dramatic structure and should include multiple plausible endings. The use of VPs as part of a collaborative activity that is followed by a reflection session is perceived as an effective tool for the development of ethical reasoning skills in dental education.
Anticonvulsant effect of cannabinoid receptor agonists in models of seizures in developing rats
Authors: Huizenga Megan N. , Wicker Evan , Beck Veronica C. , Forcelli Patrick A. 
Published: July 2017

SummaryObjectiveAlthough drugs targeting the cannabinoid system (e.g., CB1 receptor agonists) display anticonvulsant efficacy in adult animal models of seizures/epilepsy, they remain unexplored in developing animal models. However, cannabinoid system functions emerge early in development, providing a rationale for targeting this system in neonates. We examined the therapeutic potential of drugs targeting the cannabinoid system in three seizure models in developing rats.MethodsPostnatal day (P) 10, Sprague–Dawley rat pups were challenged with the chemoconvulsant methyl‐6,7‐dimethoxy‐4‐ethyl‐beta‐carboline‐3‐carboxylate (DMCM) or pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), after treatment with either CB1/2 mixed agonist (WIN 55,212‐2), CB1 agonist (arachidonyl‐2′‐chloroethylamide [ACEA]), CB2 agonist (HU‐308), CB1 antagonist (AM‐251), CB2 antagonist (AM‐630), fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor (URB‐597), or G protein–coupled receptor 55 agonist (O‐1602). P20 Sprague–Dawley pups were challenged with DMCM after treatment with WIN, ACEA, or URB. Finally, after pretreatment with WIN, P10 Sprague–Dawley rats were challenged against acute hypoxia‐induced seizures.ResultsThe mixed CB1/2 agonist and the CB1‐specific agonist, but no other drugs, displayed anticonvulsant effects against clonic seizures in the DMCM model. By contrast, both CB1 and CB2 antagonism increased seizure severity. Similarly, we found that the CB1/2 agonist displayed antiseizure efficacy against acute hypoxia‐induced seizures (automatisms, clonic and tonic–clonic seizures) and tonic–clonic seizures evoked by PTZ. Anticonvulsant effects were seen in P10 animals but not P20 animals.SignificanceEarly life seizures represent a significant cause of morbidity, with 30–40% of infants and children with epilepsy failing to achieve seizure remission with current pharmacotherapy. Identification of new therapies for neonatal/infantile epilepsy syndromes is thus of high priority. These data indicate that the anticonvulsant action of the CB system is specific to CB1 receptor activation during early development and provide justification for further examination of CB1 receptor agonists as novel antiepileptic drugs targeting epilepsy in infants and children.
Mortality with brainstem seizures from focal 4‐aminopyridine–induced recurrent hippocampal seizures
Authors: Salam Muhammad Tariqus , Montandon Gaspard , Genov Roman , Devinsky Orrin , Del Campo Martin , Carlen Peter L. 
Published: July 2017

SummaryObjectiveSudden unexplained death in epilepsy is the leading cause of death in young adult epilepsy patients, typically occurring during the early postictal period, presumably resulting from brainstem and cardiorespiratory dysfunction. We hypothesized that ictal discharges in the brainstem disrupt the cardiorespiratory network, causing mortality. To study this hypothesis, we chose an animal model comprising focal unilateral hippocampal injection of 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP), which produced focal recurrent hippocampal seizures with secondary generalization in awake, behaving rats.MethodsWe studied ictal and interictal intracranial electrographic activity (iEEG) in 23 rats implanted with a custom electrode array into the hippocampus, the contralateral cortex, and brainstem. The hippocampal electrodes contained a cannula to administer the potassium channel blocker and convulsant (4‐AP). iEEG was recorded continuously before, during, and after seizures induced by 4‐AP infusion into the hippocampus.ResultsThe control group (n = 5) was monitored for 2–3 months, and the weekly baseline iEEG recordings showed long‐term stability. The low‐dose group (1 μL 4‐AP, 40 mm, n = 5) exhibited local electrographic seizures without spread to the contralateral cerebral cortex or brainstem. The high‐dose group (5 μL 4‐AP, 40 mm, n = 3) had several hippocampal electrographic seizures, which spread contralaterally and triggered brainstem discharges within 40 min, and were associated with violent motor seizures followed by dyspnea and respiratory arrest, with cortical and hippocampal iEEG flattening. The group that received high‐dose 4‐AP without brainstem implantation (n = 5) had similar seizure‐related respiratory difficulties. Finally, five rats that received high‐dose 4‐AP without EEG recording also developed violent motor seizures with postictal respiratory arrest. Following visualized respiratory arrest in groups III, IV, and V, manual respiratory resuscitation was successful in five of 13 animals.SignificanceThese studies show that hippocampal seizure activity can spread or trigger brainstem epileptiform discharges that may cause mortality, possibly mediated by respiratory network dysfunction.
Reformation Unfinished: Economy, Inclusivity, Authority
Authors: Kwok Pui‐lan 
Published: July 2017

AbstractIn 2017, churches around the world are organizing different activities to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther's 95 Theses. The Reformation was a momentous event in the church and the history of Europe. This article examines three important legacies of the Reformation to look ahead to the future: the church and economic life; the priesthood of all believers; and the authority of the Bible. In many ways, the issues that Luther has raised – such as authority, church structure, priesthood and ministry, biblical interpretation, and the church's relation to economics and social issues – remain to this day and demand the church's critical attention.
On the use of British standard 7910 option 1 failure assessment diagram to non‐metallic materials
Authors: Fuentes J.D. , Cicero S. , Ibáñez‐Gutiérrez F.T. , Procopio I. 
Published: July 2017

AbstractThis paper provides a structural integrity assessment methodology for the analysis of non‐metallic materials. The approach uses the British standard 7910 option 1 failure assessment diagram, originally proposed for the fracture‐plastic collapse assessment of metallic materials. The methodology has been applied to 60 fracture specimens, combining 12 different materials and covering polymers, composites, and rocks. The results obtained validate the proposed assessment methodology and demonstrate its safety for the materials analysed here.
Paleoecology of Neoproterozoic hypersaline environments: Biomarker evidence for haloarchaea, methanogens, and cyanobacteria
Authors: Schinteie R. , Brocks J. J. 
Published: July 2017

AbstractWhile numerous studies have examined modern hypersaline ecosystems, their equivalents in the geologic past, particularly in the Precambrian, are poorly understood. In this study, biomarkers from ~820 million year (Ma)‐old evaporites from the Gillen Formation of the mid‐Neoproterozoic Bitter Springs Group, central Australia, are investigated to elucidate the antiquity and paleoecology of halophiles. The sediments were composed of alternating laminae of dolomitized microbial mats and up to 90% anhydrite. Solvent extraction of these samples yielded thermally well‐preserved hydrocarbon biomarkers. The regularly branched C25 isoprenoid 2,6,10,14,18‐pentamethylicosane, the tail‐to‐tail linked C30 isoprenoid squalane, and breakdown products of the head‐to‐head linked C40 isoprenoid biphytane, were particularly abundant in the most anhydrite‐rich sediments and mark the oldest current evidence for halophilic archaea. Linear correlations between isoprenoid concentrations (normalized to n‐alkanes) and the anhydrite/dolomite ratio reveal microbial consortia that fluctuated with changing salinity levels. Halophilic archaea were the dominant organisms during periods of high salinity and gypsum precipitation, while bacteria were prevalent during stages of carbonate formation. The irregularly branched C25 isoprenoid 2,6,10,15,19‐pentamethylicosane (PMI), with a central tail‐to‐tail link, was also abundant during periods of elevated salinity, highlighting the activity of methanogens. By contrast, the irregularly branched C20 isoprenoid 2,6,11,15‐tetramethylhexadecane (crocetane) was more common in dolomite‐rich facies, revealing that an alternate group of archaea was active during less saline periods. Elevated concentrations of isotopically depleted heptadecane (n‐C17) revealed the presence of cyanobacteria under all salinity regimes. The combination of biomarkers in the mid‐Neoproterozoic Gillen Formation resembles lipid compositions from modern hypersaline cyanobacterial mats, pointing to a community composition that remained broadly constant since at least the Neoproterozoic. However, as a major contrast to most modern hypersaline environments, the Gillen evaporites did not yield any evidence for algae or other eukaryotes.
Variation in Prescription Drug Coverage for Triptans: Analysis of Insurance Formularies
Authors: Minen Mia T. , Lindberg Kate , Langford Aisha , Loder Elizabeth 
Published: July 2017

ObjectivesTo analyze triptan coverage by insurers to examine (1) possible disparities in coverage for different formulations (oral, intranasal, etc) and (2) quantity limits and stepped care requirements to obtain triptans.BackgroundTriptans are FDA approved migraine abortive medications. Patients frequently state that they have difficulty accessing triptans prescribed to them.MethodsWe searched the 2015 drug formularies of commercial and government health insurers providing coverage in NY State. We created a spreadsheet with all of the commercially available triptans and included information about covered formulations, tier numbers and quantity limits for each drug. We then calculated the number of listed plans that cover or do not cover each triptan or triptan formulation, the total number of medications not covered by an insurance provided across all of its plans, as well as the percentage of plans offered by individual companies and across all companies that covered each drug. We also calculated the number and proportion of plans that imposed quantity limits or step therapy for each drug.ResultsOf the 100 formularies searched, generic sumatriptan (all formulations), naratriptan, and zolmitriptan tablets were covered by all plans, and rizatriptan tablets and ODTs were covered by 98% of plans. Brand triptans were less likely to be covered: 4/36 Medicaid plans covered brand triptans. Commercial insurers were more likely to cover brand triptans. All plans imposed quantity limits on 1+ triptan formulations, with >80% imposing quantity limits on 14/19 formulations studied. Almost all plans used tiers for cost allocation for different medications. Generic triptans were almost always in Tier 1. Brand triptans were most commonly in Tier 3. Approximately 40% of brand triptans required step therapy, compared with 11% of generic triptans.ConclusionsThere are substantial variations in coverage and quantity limits and a high degree of complexity in triptan coverage for both government and commercial plans.
Effect of high hydrostatic pressure on the quality of four edible flowers: Viola × wittrockiana, Centaurea cyanus, Borago officinalis and Camellia japonica
Authors: Fernandes Luana , Casal Susana , Pereira José Alberto , Pereira Ermelinda L. , Ramalhosa Elsa , Saraiva Jorge A. 
Published: July 2017

SummaryThe aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) on the appearance, bioactivity and microbial content of four edible flowers along storage. Several treatments at 75–450 MPa and holding times (1, 5 and 10 min) were applied. Borage and camellia were unacceptable after all treatments, while centaurea showed good appearance at 100/5 MPa min−1; however, the shelf life did not increase. Pansies treated at 75/5 and 75/10 MPa min−1 also retained the appearance of fresh flowers. Furthermore, pansies submitted at 75/5 MPa min−1 maintained good appearance over 20 days of storage at 4 °C, while the untreated remained satisfactory only until 6 days. Even though no significant differences on microbial load were observed between untreated and HHP‐treated pansies in day 0, HHP induced the production of bioactive compounds, increasing the shelf life of pansies. So, the HHP treatment is a promising technology for Viola × wittrockiana.
Epitopes and motifs of theHLA‐B*14 allele family products and relatedHLA‐B14 cross‐reactive specificities
Authors: Street J. , Darke C. 
Published: July 2017

SummaryThe split specificities ofHLA‐B14 (B64, B65) are assigned to the B*14:01 (B64) and B*14:02 (B65) products only. Of the further 50 B*14 expressed products, only B*14:03 and B*14:06 are officially designated asHLA‐B14. The B*14:08 product differs from B64 by a single amino acid substitution of W97R, while the B*14:53 specificity (which is a “short” B14 and neither B64 nor B65) differs from B64 by three residues (W97S, Y113H and F116Y). Comprehensive testing of B*14:08:01 cells (using 49 alloantisera with B64 or B64, B65 specificities, and five monoclonal antibodies with B65 or B64, B65 activity) showed that the B*14:08 specificity is, like the B*14:53 product, neither B64 nor B65 and appears as a “short” B14 specificity. To help understand the serological reactivity of the B*14:08 and B*14:53 products, and B64 and B65, we identified seven published epitopes (11AV, 97W, 61ICT, 116F, 131S+163T, 170RHand 420) and, by inspection, 29 motifs, that encompass one or more of B64, B65 and variousHLA‐B14 cross‐reactive group specificities. We then considered the possession of these epitopes and motifs by the products of B*14:01 to B*14:06, B*14:08 and B*14:53. Seventeen of the 29 motifs fully complied with the one‐/two‐patch functional epitope concept for amino acid proximity, as determined by Cn3D software, the remainder partially complied. The nature and patterns of epitopes and motifs possessed by both B*14:08 and B*14:53 specificities supported their designation asHLA‐B14 but non‐B64/B65. Also that epitope 97W, with 11S or 11A, is critical for serological B64 and B65 reactivity. And conversely, that epitope 116F, and several identified motifs, are probably unimportant forHLA‐B14 antibody reactivity. The previous submission that the B*14:03 specificity isHLA‐B65 was compatible with its epitope/motif pattern. B*14:04 cells would also be expected to react as B65, based on its epitope/motif pattern, and not as B64 as previously implied. Also, from their epitope/motif patterns, and external serological information, it is probable that the B*14:05 and B*14:06 specificities will both appear as “short”HLA‐B14, non‐B64/B65. Several epitopes and motifs encompassed a range ofHLA‐B specificities included in the serologicalHLA‐B14 cross‐reactive group, thus supporting these original serological findings.
The use of chewing gum for postoperative ileus prevention in patients undergoing radical cystectomy
Authors: Boarin Mattia , Villa Giulia , Di Monte Valentina , Abbadessa Francesco , Manara Duilio F. 
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACTDoes the postoperative use of chewing gum in patients undergoing radical cystectomy (RC) facilitate intestinal motility recovery, reduce intestinal recanalization times and decrease length of stay? Postoperative ileus is a temporary impairment of intestinal motility and a frequent complication after RC. It is characterized by abdominal distention and absence of bowel functions, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, pain and cramps. This results in an increase in length of stay, patient discomfort and costs. Different studies investigated the efficacy of chewing gum use, as a form of simulated feeding, in accelerating the resolution of ileus after several abdominal surgical procedures. Considering the lack of specific studies, some other conducted in similar abdominal procedures were included in this literature review. Despite the diversity of type of surgery, all considered studies show for patients who received chewing gum, a significant reduction in the time of first flatus and faeces, a reduction in the time of first bowel movements; not all included studies instead have found a significant decreasing in morbidity and length of stay. The chewing gum use seems to be a simple and inexpensive way to enhance recovery of bowel function, although it is probably still a little known procedure. It is possible recommending the administration of chewing gum in patients after cystectomy, monitoring the effectiveness, upon the recognition of possible conditions that might contraindicate its use.