bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Increase in albumin by daclatasvir/asunaprevir therapy is correlated with decrease in aspartate transaminase
Authors: Kan Toshiki , Hashimoto Senju , Kawabe Naoto , Nakano Takuji , Nakaoka Kazunori , Yoshioka Kentaro 
Published: October 2017

Abstract

Objective
To elucidate the mechanism of an increase in the albumin levels by daclatasvir (DCV)/asunaprevir (ASV) therapy, we assessed the factors associated with an increase in the albumin levels.

Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 125 patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, treated with DCV/ASV from November 2014 to January 2016.

Results
Albumin levels significantly increased from 4.0 ± 0.4 g/dL at baseline to 4.2 ± 0.4 g/dL at 24 weeks after the end of treatment (EOT) (P < 0.0001) in 108 patients with SVR. Patients with SVR were divided into three groups according to their baseline albumin levels: group A, ≥ 4 g/dL; group B, 3.6–3.9 g/dL; and group C, ≤ 3.5 g/dL. The increase in albumin levels from baseline to at 24 weeks after EOT was significantly larger in group C (0.5 ± 0.5 g/dL, P < 0.0001) and group B (0.2 ± 0.4 g/dL, P = 0.0059) than in group A (0.0 ± 0.3 g/dL). Multivariate analysis showed that aspartate transaminase (AST) levels was the only factor associated with ≥ 0.3 g/dL increase in albumin levels in groups B and C (P = 0.0305). An increase in albumin levels was significantly correlated with a decrease in AST levels (r = 0.4729, P = 0.0119).

Conclusion
DCV/ASV therapy resulted in an increase in albumin levels in SVR patients, which was significantly correlated with a decrease in AST levels. It is probable that the reduction of inflammation, but not by reduction of fibrosis, mainly caused an increase in albumin levels.
A Quaternary record of the big-eyed bat Chiroderma villosum (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) with a revised lower molar terminology
Authors: Garbino Guilherme S.T. , Tavares Valéria da C. 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
We report the first Quaternary record of the big-eyed bat Chiroderma villosum from South America based on a left mandible fragment collected in the Gruta dos Brejões, late Quaternary of northeastern Brazil. This material has been identified over the course of our revisionary work of the genus Chiroderma, including all species distributed in South America (Chiroderma doriae, Chiroderma salvini, Chiroderma trinitatum, Chiroderma villosum and Chiroderma vizottoi). Our results revealed that several characters of the second lower molar (m2), and of the posterior mandible may be used to identify and to diagnose the South American Chiroderma. We also revisited the historical interpretation of homologies of the lower molar cusps of Chiroderma, and propose a revised molar cusp terminology.
Stimulus-responsive liposomes as smart nanoplatforms for drug delivery applications
Authors: Zangabad Parham Sahandi , Mirkiani Soroush , Shahsavari Shayan , Masoudi Behrad , Masroor Maryam , Hamed Hamid , Jafari Zahra , Taghipour Yasamin Davatgaran , Hashemi Hura , Karimi Mahdi , Hamblin Michael R. 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
Liposomes are known to be promising nanoparticles (NPs) for drug delivery applications. Among the different types of self-assembled NPs, liposomes stand out for their non-toxic nature and their possession of dual hydrophilic-hydrophobic domains. The advantages of liposomes include the ability to solubilize hydrophobic drugs, the ability to incorporate different hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs at the same time, lessening the exposure of host organs to potentially toxic drugs and allowing modification of the surface by a variety of different chemical groups. This modification of the surface, or of the individual constituents, may be used to achieve two important goals. First, ligands for active targeting can be attached that are recognized by cognate receptors overexpressed on the target cells of tissues. Second, modification can be used to impart a stimulus-responsive or “smart” character to the liposomes, whereby the cargo is released on demand only when certain internal stimuli (pH, reducing agents, specific enzymes) or external stimuli [light, magnetic field, or ultrasound (US)] are present. Here, we review the field of smart liposomes for drug delivery applications.
Carbon nanomaterials and their application to electrochemical sensors: a review
Authors: Power Aoife C. , Gorey Brian , Chandra Shaneel , Chapman James 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
Carbon has long been applied as an electrochemical sensing interface owing to its unique electrochemical properties. Moreover, recent advances in material design and synthesis, particularly nanomaterials, has produced robust electrochemical sensing systems that display superior analytical performance. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are one of the most extensively studied nanostructures because of their unique properties. In terms of electroanalysis, the ability of CNTs to augment the electrochemical reactivity of important biomolecules and promote electron transfer reactions of proteins is of particular interest. The remarkable sensitivity of CNTs to changes in surface conductivity due to the presence of adsorbates permits their application as highly sensitive nanoscale sensors. CNT-modified electrodes have also demonstrated their utility as anchors for biomolecules such as nucleic acids, and their ability to diminish surface fouling effects. Consequently, CNTs are highly attractive to researchers as a basis for many electrochemical sensors. Similarly, synthetic diamonds electrochemical properties, such as superior chemical inertness and biocompatibility, make it desirable both for (bio) chemical sensing and as the electrochemical interface for biological systems. This is highlighted by the recent development of multiple electrochemical diamond-based biosensors and bio interfaces.
Sustainability in art conservation: a novel bio-based organogel for the cleaning of water sensitive works of art
Authors: Prati Silvia , Volpi Francesca , Fontana Raffaella , Galletti Paola , Giorgini Loris , Mazzeo Rocco , Mazzocchetti Laura , Samorì Chiara , Sciutto Giorgia , Tagliavini Emilio 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
Organo- and hydrogels have been proposed in the restoration field to treat different types of surfaces. The possibility to retain solvents and to have a controlled and superficial action allowed to use these materials for the removal of very thin layers applied on ancient historical objects, when the under paint layers are particularly delicate and water sensitive. In the last years, an increased attention has been devoted to the proposal of more healthy products to guarantee the safeguard of the operators. Few attention has been devoted to the development of green methods which foresee the use of renewable and biodegradable materials. The aim of this paper is to test a green organo-gel for the cleaning of water sensitive surfaces like varnished egg tempera paintings. The gel has been tested experimented on mock ups varnished with natural and synthetic materials and has been validated on a small portion of a Cimabue painting for the removal of two varnishes applied on two different test areas of the painting.
Functionalized and engineered nanochannels for gas separation
Authors: Kamakshi  , Kumar Rajesh , Saraswat Vibhav K. , Kumar Manoj , Awasthi Kamlendra 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
In this work, we present the hydrogen selective gas separation properties of the track-etched poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET) membranes, which were functionalized with a carboxylic group. Also, Palladium (Pd) nanoparticles of average diameter 5 nm were deposited for a various time on pore walls as well as on the surface of carboxylated membranes. Effect of Pd nanoparticles binding with the increase of deposition time on gas separation and selectivity was studied. For the study of surface morphology of these composite membranes and the confirmation of Pd nanoparticles binding on the surface as well as on pore walls is characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The gas permeability of carboxylated membrane with increasing Pd deposition timing for hydrogen (H2), carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen (N2) was examined. From the gas permeability data of H2, CO2 and N2 gasses, it was observed that these membranes have higher permeability for H2 as compared with CO2 and N2. Selectivity of H2/CO2 and H2/N2 improves with the increased Pd nanoparticles deposition time. These membranes have effective application in the field of hydrogen based fuel cell.
Patient safety culture in Slovenian out-of-hours primary care clinics
Authors: Klemenc-Ketiš Zalika , Deilkås Ellen Tveter , Hofoss Dag , Bondevik Gunnar Tschudi 
Published: October 2017

Abstract

Introduction
Patient safety culture is a concept which describes how leader and staff interaction, attitudes, routines and practices protect patients from adverse events in healthcare. We aimed to investigate patient safety culture in Slovenian out-of-hours health care (OOHC) clinics, and determine the possible factors that might be associated with it.

Methods
This was a cross-sectional study, which took place in Slovenian OOHC, as part of the international study entitled Patient Safety Culture in European Out-of-Hours Services (SAFE-EUR-OOH). All the OOHC clinics in Slovenia (N=60) were invited to participate, and 37 agreed to do so; 438 employees from these clinics were invited to participate. We used the Slovenian version of the Safety Attitudes Questionnaire – an ambulatory version (SAQAV) to measure the climate of safety.

Results
Out of 438 invited participants, 250 answered the questionnaire (57.1% response rate). The mean overall score ± standard deviation of the SAQ was 56.6±16.0 points, of Perceptions of Management 53.6±19.6 points, of Job Satisfaction 48.5±18.3 points, of Safety Climate 59.1±22.1 points, of Teamwork Climate 72.7±16.6, and of Communication 51.5±23.4 points. Employees working in the Ravne na Koroškem region, employees with variable work shifts, and those with full-time jobs scored significantly higher on the SAQ-AV.

Conclusion
The safety culture in Slovenian OOHC clinics needs improvement. The variations in the safety culture factor scores in Slovenian OOHC clinics point to the need to eliminate variations and improve working conditions in Slovenian OOHC clinics.
Implementing quality indicators for diabetes and hypertension in family medicine in Slovenia
Authors: Klemenc-Ketiš Zalika , Švab Igor , Poplas Susič Antonija 
Published: October 2017

Abstract

Introduction
A new form of family practices was introduced in 2011 through a pilot project introducing nurse practitioners as members of team and determining a set of quality indicators. The aim of this article was to assess the quality of diabetes and hypertension management.

Methods
We included all family medicine practices that were participating in the project in December 2015 (N=584). The following data were extracted from automatic electronic reports on quality indicators: gender and specialisation of the family physician, status (public servant/self-contracted), duration of participation in the project, region of Slovenia, the number of inhabitants covered by a family medicine practice, the name of IT provider, and levels of selected quality indicators.

Results
Out of 584 family medicine practices that were included in this project at the end of 2015, 568 (97.3%) had complete data and could be included in this analysis. The highest values were observed for structure quality indicator (list of diabetics) and the lowest for process and outcome quality indicators. The values of the selected quality indicators were independently associated with the duration of participation in the project, some regions of Slovenia where practices were located, and some IT providers of the practices.

Conclusion
First, the analysis of data on quality indicators for diabetes and hypertension in this primary care project pointed out the problems which are currently preventing higher quality of chronic patient management at the primary health care level.
Key factors determining indoor air PM10 concentrations in naturally ventilated primary schools in Belgrade, Serbia
Authors: Matic Branislava , Rakic Uros , Jovanovic Verica , Dejanovic Snezana , Djonovic Nela 
Published: October 2017

Abstract

Introduction
Indoor air quality (IAQ) is rated as a serious public health issue. Knowing children are accounted as more vulnerable to environmental health hazards, data are needed on air quality in schools.

Methods
A project was conducted from 2007 until 2009 (SEARCH, School Environment and Respiratory Health of Children), aiming to verify links between IAQ and children’s respiratory health. Study was conducted in ten primary schools on 735 children, in 44 classrooms. Children were randomly selected. Research tools and indicators used for children’s exposure to school environment were indoor and outdoor pollutants, two standardized questionnaires for school and classroom characteristics. In both classroom air and ambient air in front of them we measured, during a 5-day exposure period for continuous 24h measuring: carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, indoor air temperature, relative humidity, and PM10 during classes.

Results
PM10 concentrations were significantly most frequent in an interval of ≥80.1μg/m3, that is, in the interval above 50μg/m3. Mean PM10 value was 82.24±42.43 μg/m3, ranging from 32.00μg/m3 to of 197.00μg/m3.

Conclusion
The increase of outdoor PM10 concentration significantly affects the increase of indoor PM10. A statistically significant difference exists for average IAQ PM10 concentrations vs. indicators of indoor thermal comfort zone (p<0.0001); they are lower in the classrooms with indicators within the comfort zone. Moreover, dominant factors for the increase of PM10 are: high occupancy rate in the classroom (<2m2 of space per child), high relative humidity (>75%), and indoor temperature beyond 23°C, as well as bad ventilation habits (keeping windows shut most of the time).
Self- perceived stress in relation to anxiety, depression and health-related quality of life among health professions students: A cross-sectional study from Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Racic Maja , Todorovic Radica , Ivkovic Nedeljka , Masic Srdjan , Joksimovic Bojan , Kulic Milan 
Published: October 2017

AbstractIntroductionThe purpose of the present study was to examine self-perceived stress of health professions students at the Faculty of Medicine Foča, and to explore its association with anxiety, depression and health-related quality of life.MethodsThe cross-sectional study enrolled 451 students at the Faculty of Medicine (medicine, dentistry, nursing and speech therapy). Survey instruments were distributed at the conclusion of the spring semester during the last required lecture for each year and study programme class. Perceived stress was assessed using the 14-item Perceived Stress Scale. The students were evaluated for symptoms of depression and anxiety, using Zung’s self-assessment inventory for depression and the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). European Quality of Life-5 dimensions were used for describing and evaluating health. Multivariate analyses were carried out using logistic regression to examine the relationship between the outcome variable and selected determinant factors.ResultsA high degree of stress was reported by 1.6% of students, while the majority of students had either moderate (70.6%) or low degree (27.5%) of stress. The significant independent factors associated with perceived stress were anxiety score (OR, 0.339; CI 95%, 0.276-0.403) and EQ-5D score (OR, 0.044; CI 95%, 0.033-0.085). A high degree of perceived stress (OR, 0.624; CI 95%, 0.507-0.704), the presence of depression (OR, 0.800; CI 95%, 0.513-1.087), and low quality of life were associated with anxiety (OR, 0.073; CI 95%, 0.018-0.128).ConclusionHigher levels of perceived stress predispose health professions students for anxiety and lower quality of life. The study programme was not a significant determinant of perceived stress sore.
Validation of the Slovenian version of multiple sclerosis quality of life (MSQOL-54) instrument
Authors: Stern Biljana , Hojs Fabjan Tanja , Rener-Sitar Ksenija , Zaletel-Kragelj Lijana 
Published: October 2017

Abstract

Purpose
To cross-culturally adapt and validate Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 (MSQOL-54) instrument.

Methods
The study which enrolled 134 Slovenian multiple sclerosis (MS) patients was conducted from March to December 2013. The internal consistency of the MSQOL-54 instrument was evaluated by Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (α), and its dimensionality assessed by the principal component analysis (PCA).

Results
The whole instrument had high internal consistency (α=0.88), as well as the majority of its twelve subscales (α=0.83-0.94). The results of the PCA showed two components with eigenvalue greater than 1, explaining 59.4% of the cumulative variance. Further results indicated good construct validity of the instrument with the physical health-related-quality-of-life subscales loading highly on the physical component, and mental health-related-quality-of-life subscales loading highly on the mental component.

Conclusion
The Slovenian version of the MSQOL-54 instrument proved to be an internally consistent and accurate tool, well accepted by the Slovenian MS patients. The adequate psychometric properties warrant the scientifically sound version of the MSQOL-54 instrument, which is from now on at disposal to all health professionals dealing with MS patients in Slovenia.
The outcomes of pregnancy and childbirth in adolescents in Slovenia
Authors: Korenčan Simona , Pinter Bojana , Grebenc Mojca , Verdenik Ivan 
Published: October 2017

AbstractIntroductionThe objective of the study was to determine the course and outcomes of pregnancy and childbirth in adolescents compared to women aged 20–24 years in Slovenia.MethodsIn the retrospective study, the course of pregnancy and labour and the perinatal outcome of newborns in primiparous adolescents aged ≤19 years (study group) have been compared to the control group of primiparous women aged 20–24 years. The study group was further divided into a study subgroup of adolescents aged ≤17 years. Data were retrieved from the National Perinatal Information System in Slovenia for the period 2008–2012. Altogether, 13,663 women and their newborns were included.ResultsAdolescent pregnancy was associated with increased rates of unknown estimated date of delivery, preterm labour, low birth weight newborns, small for gestational age newborns and low gestational weight gain. Spontaneous labour was more common in adolescents, while emergency and elective Caesarean sections were less common than in women aged 20–24 years. In addition, pregnancy in adolescents aged ≤17 years was associated with increased rate of maternal anaemia and labour without complications. Higher rates of smoking, lower rates of parenting school attendance, lower rates of pregnancy check-ups and screening tests in pregnancy such as nuchal translucency in adolescents were found.ConclusionsThe results of the study show that adolescent pregnancy is related to higher health risks for pregnant adolescents and their newborns. In addition, adolescents are subject to poorer prenatal care comparing to older women.
Electrical Conductivity of Molten DyCl3-NaCl and DyCl3-KCl Systems: An Approach to Structural Interpretations of Rare Earth Chloride Melts
Authors: Iwadate Yasuhiko , Ohkubo Takahiro 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
Electrical conductivities (κs) of molten DyCl3-NaCl and DyCl3-KCl systems were estimated by measuring the impedances of each mixture melt at any temperature and/or frequency. The molar volumes (V
ms) were measured by dilatometry and represented as a polynomial empirical equation of temperature and composition. Due to both the properties, the molar conductivities (Λms) were calculated and their temperature and/or composition dependences were discussed from the standpoint of structural features as well. The κs increased curvilinearly with increasing temperature across the whole composition ranges. This trend was also applied to the Λms which was fitted by an Arrhenius-type equation. The relationship of Λms with melt composition was studied and the Λms were found to decrease with increasing composition of DyCl3. These findings were interpreted based on the results of structural science so far reported, and finally, the relationship between Λms and the structures of pure rare earth chloride melts was discussed.
Metal carbonyl complexes of potentially ambidentate 2,1,3-benzothiadiazole and 2,1,3-benzoselenadiazole acceptors
Authors: Plebst Sebastian , Bubrin Martina , Schweinfurth David , Záliš Stanislav , Kaim Wolfgang 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
The compounds [W(CO)5(btd)], [W(CO)5(bsd] and [Re(CO)3(bpy)(bsd)](BF4), btd=2,1,3-benzothiadiazole and bsd=2,1,3-benzoselenadiazole were isolated and characterized experimentally (crystal structure, spectroscopy, spectroelectrochemistry) and by density functional theory calculations. The results confirm single N-coordination in all cases, binding to Se was calculated to be less favorable. Studies of one-electron reduced forms indicate that the N-coordination is maintained during electron transfer.
Relationship Between Physiological Off-Ice Testing, On-Ice Skating, and Game Performance in Division I Female Ice Hockey Players
Authors: Boland Michelle , Delude Katie , Miele Emily M. 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
Boland, M, Delude, K, and Miele, EM. Relationship between physiological off-ice testing, on-ice skating, and game performance in Division I female ice hockey players. J Strength Cond Res 33(6): 1620–1629, 2019—The purpose of this study was to identify off-ice testing variables that correlate with skating and game performance in Division I collegiate female ice hockey players. Twenty female forward and defensive players (19.95 ± 1.35 years) were assessed for mass, height, percent fat mass (%FAT), bone mineral density, predicted 1 repetition maximum (RM) absolute and relative (REL%) bench press (BP) and hex bar deadlift (HDL), lower-body explosive power, anaerobic power, countermovement vertical jump, maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), and on-ice repeated-skate sprint (RSS) performance. The on-ice RSS test included 6 timed 85.6-m sprints with participants wearing full hockey equipment; fastest time (FT), average time (AT), and fatigue index (FI) for the first length skate (FLS; 10 m) and total length skate (TLS; 85.6 m) were used for analysis. Game performance was evaluated with game statistics: goals, assists, points, plus-minus, and shots on goal (SOG). Correlation coefficients were used to determine relationships. Percent fat mass was positively correlated (p ≤ 0.05) with FLS-FI and TLS-AT; TLS-FT was negatively correlated with REL%HDL; BP-RM was negatively correlated with FLS-FT and FLS-AT; MIP positively correlated with assists, points, and SOG; FLS-AT negatively correlated with assists. Game performance in female ice hockey players may be enhanced by greater MIP, repeat acceleration ability, and mode-specific training. Faster skating times were associated with lower %FAT. Skating performance in female ice hockey players may be enhanced by improving body composition, anaerobic power, and both lower- and upper-body strength in off-ice training.