bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Markers of Oxidative Stress in Dogs with Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease are Influenced by Sex, Neuter Status, and Serum Cholesterol Concentration
Authors: Reimann M.J. , Häggström J. , Møller J.E. , Lykkesfeldt J. , Falk T. , Olsen L.H. 
Published: January 2017

BackgroundCardiovascular disease has been associated with oxidative stress, which has been suggested to contribute to myocardial remodeling in human patients. Little is known about the relationship between myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and oxidative stress in dogs.ObjectiveTo determine whether clinical stage ofMMVDis associated with changes in the plasma concentrations of certain markers of oxidative stress in clinically healthy dogs and dogs withMMVD.AnimalsSeventy five privately owned dogs: 59 cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCS) with different severities ofMMVDand 16 dogs of different breeds with clinical signs of congestive heart failure (CHF) caused byMMVD.MethodsMarkers of oxidative stress including malondialdehyde (MDA), oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (oxLDL), and vitamin E (α‐tocopherol and γ‐tocopherol) were measured in plasma and their association with clinical stage ofMMVDwas assessed by regression analyses.ResultsPlasma oxLDLconcentration was significantly lower in female dogs compared with males (P= .01). Significantly higher plasma γ‐tocopherol concentrations were found in neutered (P= .003) dogs. Vitamin E (α‐tocopherol [P= .0004] and γ‐tocopherol [P= .003]) was associated with body condition score (BCS), but the association disappeared when cholesterol was included in the analyses. All markers of oxidative stress (MDA, oxLDL, and vitamin E) were positively associated with serum cholesterol concentration (P≤ .04), but none were associated with clinical stage ofMMVD.ConclusionsIn conclusion, markers of oxidative stress are associated with sex,BCS, neuter status, and cholesterol. The results cannot confirm a relationship between oxidative stress and clinical stage of the disease in dogs withMMVD.
Photoprotection in a monophyletic branch of chlorophyte algae is independent of energy‐dependent quenching (qE)
Authors: Christa Gregor , Cruz Sónia , Jahns Peter , de Vries Jan , Cartaxana Paulo , Esteves Ana Cristina , Serôdio João , Gould Sven B. 
Published: February 2017

Summary

Phototrophic organisms need to ensure high photosynthetic performance whilst suppressing reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐induced stress occurring under excess light conditions. The xanthophyll cycle (XC), related to the high‐energy quenching component (qE) of the nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ) of excitation energy, is considered to be an obligatory component of photoprotective mechanisms.

The pigment composition of at least one representative of each major clade of Ulvophyceae (Chlorophyta) was investigated. We searched for a light‐dependent conversion of pigments and investigated the NPQ capacity with regard to the contribution of XC and the qE component when grown under different light conditions.

A XC was found to be absent in a monophyletic group of Ulvophyceae, the Bryopsidales, when cultivated under low light, but was triggered in one of the 10 investigated bryopsidalean species, Caulerpa cf. taxifolia, when cultivated under high light. Although Bryopsidales accumulate zeaxanthin (Zea) under high‐light (HL) conditions, NPQ formation is independent of a XC and not related to qE.

qE‐ and XC‐independent NPQ in the Bryopsidales contradicts the common perception regarding its ubiquitous occurrence in Chloroplastida. Zea accumulation in HL‐acclimated Bryopsidales most probably represents a remnant of a functional XC. The existence of a monophyletic algal taxon that lacks qE highlights the need for broad biodiversity studies on photoprotective mechanisms.
First molecular epidemiology of Entamoeba histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii infections in Yemen: different species‐specific associated risk factors
Authors: Al‐Areeqi Mona A. , Sady Hany , Al‐Mekhlafi Hesham M. , Anuar Tengku Shahrul , Al‐Adhroey Abdulelah H. , Atroosh Wahib M. , Dawaki Salwa , Elyana Fatin Nur , Nasr Nabil A. , Ithoi Init , Lau Yee‐Ling , Surin Johari 
Published: February 2017

AbstractObjectivesTo investigate the molecular epidemiology of Entamoeba histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii infections among rural communities in Yemen.MethodsIn a community‐based study, faecal samples were collected from 605 participants and examined by wet mount, formalin‐ether sedimentation, trichrome staining and nested multiplex PCR techniques. Demographic, socio‐economic and environmental information was collected using a pre‐tested questionnaire.ResultsOverall, 324 (53.6%) of the samples were positive for Entamoeba cysts and/or trophozoites by microscopic examination. Molecular analysis revealed that 20.2%, 15.7% and 18.2% of the samples were positive for E. histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed different sets of species‐specific risk factors among these communities. Educational level was identified as the significant risk factor for E. histolytica; age and gender were the significant risk factors for E. moshkovskii; and sources of drinking water and consumption of unwashed vegetables were the significant risk factors for E. dispar. Moreover, living in coastal/foothill areas and presence of other infected family members were risk factors for both E. histolytica and E. moshkovskii infections.ConclusionThe study reveals that Entamoeba spp. infection is highly prevalent among rural communities in Yemen, with E. histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii differentiated for the first time. Identifying and treating infected family members, providing health education pertinent to good personal and food hygiene practices and providing clean drinking water should be considered in developing a strategy to control intestinal parasitic infections in these communities, particularly in the coastal/foothill areas of the country.
Four sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Belgian general practice: first results (2013–2014) of a nationwide continuing surveillance study
Authors: Boffin N , Moreels S , Deblonde J , Van Casteren V 
Published: January 2017

ObjectivesTo describe and explore data from the surveillance of chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhoea and genital warts by the Belgian Network of Sentinel General Practices (SGP) over the first 2 years (2013 and 2014) and to estimate the incidence of these 4 sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A special focus is put on data quality.DesignRetrospective observational study.SettingGeneral practices from the nationwide representative SGP network.Outcome measuresAgreement between data distributions by year, agreement between SGP-based incidence and incidence based on mandatory notification, missingness of patient age or gender and incompleteness of sexual risk history of patients.Results306 new STI episodes were reported from 298 patients, corresponding with an episode-based incidence of 91.9/100 000 (95% CI 81.9 to 102.8) general practice patients, with almost half of it due to chlamydia. The incidence of chlamydia in men was significantly higher in 2014 than in 2013. Population characteristics were similarly distributed in 2013 and 2014. The SGP-based incidence of gonorrhoea and syphilis in Flanders were in agreement with the incidence based on mandatory notification of cases. Patient age or gender was missing from 35 episodes (11.4%). Independent determinants of missingness of patient age or gender were the Flemish region (OR 3.46; 95% CI 1.02 to 11.73) and genital warts infection (OR 2.23; 95% CI 1.07 to 4.63). An incomplete sexual risk history was reported for 54.6% STI episodes. The odds for an incomplete sexual history were higher for older patients (OR 1.72; 95% CI 1.06 to 2.76) and for patients infected with syphilis, gonorrhoea or co-infection(s) (OR 1.71; 95% CI 1.03 to 2.83).ConclusionsIncompleteness of reports about patients with STI sexual risk histories is important from the perspective of quality of data and of quality of care. Together with the low rates of both HIV testing and discussion of partner notification, this suggests that a general practice guideline is needed.
Cohort profile: prevalence of valvular heart disease in community patients with suspected heart failure in UK
Authors: Marciniak Anna , Glover Keli , Sharma Rajan 
Published: January 2017

PurposeThe aim of this study was to evaluate the proportion of suspected heart failure patients with significant valvular heart disease. Early diagnosis of valve disease is essential as delay can limit treatment and negatively affect prognosis for undiagnosed patients. The prevalence of unsuspected valve disease in the community is uncertain.ParticipantsWe prospectively evaluated 79 043 patients, between 2001 and 2011, who were referred to a community open access echocardiography service for suspected heart failure. All patients underwent a standard transthoracic echocardiogram according to British Society of Echocardiography guidelines.Findings to dateOf the total number, 29 682 patients (37.5%) were diagnosed with mild valve disease, 8983 patients (11.3%) had moderate valve disease and 2134 (2.7%) had severe valve disease. Of the total number of patients scanned, the prevalence of aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation, mitral stenosis, mitral regurgitation was 10%, 8.4%, 1%, and 12.5% respectively. 18% had tricuspid regurgitation. 5% had disease involving one or more valves.ConclusionsOf patients with suspected heart failure in the primary care setting, a significant proportion have important valvular heart disease. These patients are at high risk of future cardiac events and will require onward referral for further evaluation. We recommend that readily available community echocardiography services should be provided for general practitioners as this will result in early detection of valve disease.
Methodology used in comparative studies assessing programmes of transition from paediatrics to adult care programmes: a systematic review
Authors: Le Roux E , Mellerio H , Guilmin-Crépon S , Gottot S , Jacquin P , Boulkedid R , Alberti C 
Published: January 2017

ObjectiveTo explore the methodologies employed in studies assessing transition of care interventions, with the aim of defining goals for the improvement of future studies.DesignSystematic review of comparative studies assessing transition to adult care interventions for young people with chronic conditions.Data sourcesMEDLINE, EMBASE, ClinicalTrial.gov.Eligibility criteria for selecting studies2 reviewers screened comparative studies with experimental and quasi-experimental designs, published or registered before July 2015. Eligible studies evaluate transition interventions at least in part after transfer to adult care of young people with chronic conditions with at least one outcome assessed quantitatively.Results39 studies were reviewed, 26/39 (67%) published their final results and 13/39 (33%) were in progress. In 9 studies (9/39, 23%) comparisons were made between preintervention and postintervention in a single group. Randomised control groups were used in 9/39 (23%) studies. 2 (2/39, 5%) reported blinding strategies. Use of validated questionnaires was reported in 28% (11/39) of studies. In terms of reporting in published studies 15/26 (58%) did not report age at transfer, and 6/26 (23%) did not report the time of collection of each outcome.ConclusionsFew evaluative studies exist and their level of methodological quality is variable. The complexity of interventions, multiplicity of outcomes, difficulty of blinding and the small groups of patients have consequences on concluding on the effectiveness of interventions. The evaluation of the transition interventions requires an appropriate and common methodology which will provide access to a better level of evidence. We identified areas for improvement in terms of randomisation, recruitment and external validity, blinding, measurement validity, standardised assessment and reporting. Improvements will increase our capacity to determine effective interventions for transition care.
Cost-effectiveness research in cancer therapy: a systematic review of literature trends, methods and the influence of funding
Authors: Al-Badriyeh Daoud , Alameri Marwah , Al-Okka Randa 
Published: January 2017

ObjectiveTo perform a first-time analysis of the cost-effectiveness (CE) literature on chemotherapies, of all types, in cancer, in terms of trends and change over time, including the influence of industry funding.DesignSystematic review.SettingA wide range of cancer-related research settings within healthcare, including health systems, hospitals and medical centres.ParticipantsAll literature comparative CE research of drug-based cancer therapies in the period 1986 to 2015.Primary and secondary outcome measuresPrimary outcomes are the literature trends in relation to journal subject category, authorship, research design, data sources, funds and consultation involvement. An additional outcome measure is the association between industry funding and study outcomes.AnalysisDescriptive statistics and the χ2, Fisher exact or Somer's D tests were used to perform non-parametric statistics, with a p value of <0.05 as the statistical significance measure.ResultsTotal 574 publications were analysed. The drug-related CE literature expands over time, with increased publishing in the healthcare sciences and services journal subject category (p<0.001). The retrospective data collection in studies increased over time (p<0.001). The usage of prospective data, however, has been decreasing (p<0.001) in relation to randomised clinical trials (RCTs), but is unchanging for non-RCT studies. The industry-sponsored CE studies have especially been increasing (p<0.001), in contrast to those sponsored by other sources. While paid consultation involvement grew throughout the years, the declaration of funding for this is relatively limited. Importantly, there is evidence that industry funding is associated with favourable result to the sponsor (p<0.001).ConclusionsThis analysis demonstrates clear trends in how the CE cancer research is presented to the practicing community, including in relation to journals, study designs, authorship and consultation, together with increased financial sponsorship by pharmaceutical industries, which may be more influencing study outcomes than other funding sources.
Computerised cognitive–behavioural therapy for depression in adolescents: feasibility results and 4-month outcomes of a UK randomised controlled trial
Authors: Wright Barry , Tindall Lucy , Littlewood Elizabeth , Allgar Victoria , Abeles Paul , Trépel Dominic , Ali Shehzad 
Published: January 2017

ObjectivesComputer-administered cognitive–behavioural therapy (CCBT) may be a promising treatment for adolescents with depression, particularly due to its increased availability and accessibility. The feasibility of delivering a randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing a CCBT program (Stressbusters) with an attention control (self-help websites) for adolescent depression was evaluated.DesignSingle centre RCT feasibility study.SettingThe trial was run within community and clinical settings in York, UK.ParticipantsAdolescents (aged 12–18) with low mood/depression were assessed for eligibility, 91 of whom met the inclusion criteria and were consented and randomised to Stressbusters (n=45) or websites (n=46) using remote computerised single allocation. Those with comorbid physical illness were included but those with psychosis, active suicidality or postnatal depression were not.InterventionsAn eight-session CCBT program (Stressbusters) designed for use with adolescents with low mood/depression was compared with an attention control (accessing low mood self-help websites).Primary and secondary outcome measuresParticipants completed mood and quality of life measures and a service Use Questionnaire throughout completion of the trial and 4 months post intervention. Measures included the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) (primary outcome measure), Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (MFQ), Spence Children's Anxiety Scale (SCAS), the EuroQol five dimensions questionnaire (youth) (EQ-5D-Y) and Health Utility Index Mark 2 (HUI-2). Changes in self-reported measures and completion rates were assessed by treatment group.ResultsFrom baseline to 4 months post intervention, BDI scores and MFQ scores decreased for the Stressbusters group but increased in the website group. Quality of life, as measured by the EQ-5D-Y, increased for both groups while costs at 4 months were similar to baseline. Good feasibility outcomes were found, suggesting the trial process to be feasible and acceptable for adolescents with depression.ConclusionsWith modifications, a fully powered RCT is achievable to investigate a promising treatment for adolescent depression in a climate where child mental health service resources are limited.Trial registration numberISRCTN31219579.
Safe clinical practice for patients hospitalised in a suicidal crisis: a study protocol for a qualitative case study
Authors: Berg Siv Hilde , Rørtveit Kristine , Walby Fredrik A , Aase Karina 
Published: January 2017

IntroductionSuicide prevention in psychiatric care is arguably complex and incompletely understood as a patient safety issue. A resilient healthcare approach provides perspectives through which to understand this complexity by understanding everyday clinical practice. By including suicidal patients and healthcare professionals as sources of knowledge, a deeper understanding of what constitutes safe clinical practice can be achieved.MethodsThis planned study aims to adopt the perspective of resilient healthcare to provide a deeper understanding of safe clinical practice for suicidal patients in psychiatric inpatient care. It will describe the experienced components and conditions of safe clinical practice and the experienced practice of patient safety. The study will apply a descriptive case study approach consisting of qualitative semistructured interviews and focus groups. The data sources are hospitalised patients in a suicidal crisis and healthcare professionals in clinical practice.Ethics and disseminationThis study was approved by the Regional Ethics Committee (2016/34). The results will be disseminated through scientific articles, a PhD dissertation, and national and international conferences. These findings can generate knowledge to be integrated into the practice of safety for suicidal inpatients in Norway and to improve the feasibility of patient safety measures. Theoretical generalisations can be drawn regarding safe clinical practice by taking into account the experiences of patients and healthcare professionals. Thus, this study can inform the conceptual development of safe clinical practice for suicidal patients.
Evaluation of IL-12RB1, IL-12B, CXCR-3 and IL-17a expression in cases affected by a non-healing form of cutaneous leishmaniasis: an observational study design
Authors: Moafi Mohammad , Rezvan Hossein , Sherkat Roya , Taleban Roya , Asilian Ali , Zarkesh Esfahani Seyed Hamid , Nilforoushzadeh Mohammad Ali , Jaffary Fariba , Feizi Awat 
Published: January 2017

IntroductionSeldom cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) may present as a lasting and active lesion(s), known as a non-healing form of CL (NHCL). Non-functional type 1 T helper (Th1) cells are assumed the most important factor in the outcome of the disease. The present study aims to assess some molecular defects that potentially contribute to Th1 impairment in NHCL.Methods and analysisThis prospective observational study will be implemented among five groups. The first and second groups comprise patients afflicted with non-healing and healing forms of CL, respectively. The third group consists of those recovered participants who have scars as a result of CL. Those participants who have never lived or travelled to endemic areas of leishmaniasis will comprise the fourth group. The fifth group comprises participants living in hyperendemic areas for leishmaniasis, although none of them have been afflicted by CL. The aim is to recruit 10 NHCL cases and 30 participants in each of the other groups. A leishmanin skin test (LST) will be performed to assess in vivo immunity against theLeishmaniainfection. The cytokine profile (interleukin (IL)-12p70, interferon (IFN)-γ, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL)-11 and IL-17a) of the isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) will be evaluated through ELISA. Real-time PCR will determine the C-X-C motif chemokine receptor (CXCR)-3 and IL-17a gene expression and expression of IL-12Rβ1 will be assessed by flow cytometry. Furthermore, IL-12B and IL-12RB1 mutation analysis will be performed.DiscussionIt is anticipated that the outcome of the current study will identify IL-12B and IL-12RB1 mutations, which lead to persistent lesions of CL. Furthermore, our expected results will reveal an association between NHCL and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-12p70, IFN-γ IL-17a and CXCL-11), as well as CXCR-3 expression.Ethics and disseminationThis study has been approved by a local ethical committee. The final results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and scientific conferences.
Functional outcome after Mason II–III radial head and neck fractures: study protocol for a systematic review in accordance with the PRISMA statement
Authors: Hagelberg Mårten , Thune Alexandra , Krupic Ferid , Salomonsson Björn , Sköldenberg Olof 
Published: January 2017

IntroductionFractures of the radial head and neck are the most common fractures of the elbow, and account for approximately one-third of all elbow fractures. Depending on the fracture type the treatment is either conservative or surgical. There is no absolute consensus regarding optimal treatment for different fracture types. The aim of this protocol is to present the method that will be used to collect, describe and analyse the current evidence regarding the treatment of Mason II–III radial head and neck fractures.Method and analysisWe will conduct a systematic review in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol (PRISMA-P) guidelines statement. We will search a number of databases with a predefined search strategy to collect both randomised and non-randomised studies. The articles will be summarised with descriptive statistics. If applicable a meta-analysis will be conducted.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval is not required since this is a protocol for a systematic review and no primary data will be collected. The authors will publish findings from this review in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.Trial registration numberCRD42016037627.