bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Alamandine abrogates neutrophil degranulation in atherosclerotic mice
Authors: Da Silva Analina R. , Lenglet Sébastien , Carbone Federico , Burger Fabienne , Roth Aline , Liberale Luca , Bonaventura Aldo , Dallegri Franco , Stergiopulos Nikolaos , Santos Robson A. S. , Mach François , Fraga‐Silva Rodrigo A. , Montecucco Fabrizio 
Published: December 2016

AbstractBackgroundNeutrophil‐mediated inflammation was recently identified as an active contributor to athero‐progression. Therapeutic strategies inhibiting neutrophil degranulation or recruitment were hypothesized to positively impact on plaque vulnerability. In this study, we investigated whether treatment with the recently discovered agonist of the Mas‐related G‐coupled receptor type D (MrgD) alamandine would impact on neutrophil degranulation in vivo and in vitro.Materials and methodsFifteen‐week‐old ApoE−/− mice were fed with a Western‐type diet for an additional 11 weeks. After the first 2 weeks of diet, mice were surgically implanted with a carotid ‘cast’ device that alters the blood shear stress and induces different carotid plaque phenotypes. During the last 4 weeks before euthanasia, mice were randomly assigned to subcutaneously receive vehicle (NaCl 0·15 M) or alamandine (24 μg/kg/h) by micropump. For in vitro experiments, neutrophils were obtained after thioglycollate intraperitoneal injection in ApoE−/− mice.ResultsTreatment with alamandine was well‐tolerated, but failed to affect lipid, macrophage, neutrophil or collagen content within carotid and aortic root plaques. Also, treatment with alamandine did not affect Th‐cell polarization in lymphoid organs. Conversely, alamandine administration was associated with a reduction in serum levels of neutrophil granule enzymes, such as MMP‐9 and MPO as well as MMP‐9 content within aortic root plaques. In vitro, preincubation with alamandine dose‐dependently abrogated PMA‐induced neutrophil degranulation of MMP‐9 and MPO.ConclusionThese results suggest that treatment with the MrgD agonist alamandine led to a reduced release of neutrophil granule products, potentially interfering with pro‐atherosclerotic neutrophil activation.
Exposure to a pine pathogen enhances growth and disease resistance inPinus radiataseedlings
Authors: Swett C. L. , Gordon T. R. 
Published: December 2016

SummaryMost studies ofFusarium circinatum, the cause of pitch canker in pines, have focused on its activity as a pathogen. However, recent findings indicate that this fungus can colonize roots ofPinus radiatawithout inducing symptoms. Contrary to expectations, this study revealed that seedlings grown in infested sand grew more rapidly than seedlings not exposed toF. circinatum, based on root and shoot biomass, with modifications to root system architecture, including increased mycorrhizal root development. These effects were dependent on inoculum density and duration following growth in infested rooting medium. Plants exposed toF. circinatumexpressed elevated resistance to stem infections, which significantly decreased the incidence of mortality; as above, effects were dependent on inoculum density. Resistance to stem infections was also enhanced in seedlings that emerged through infested litter, as occurs in native stands. Beneficial to neutral interactions ofF. circinatumwith its host suggest that the life history of this fungus may be more complex than previously recognized, with activities similar to non‐pathogenic endophytes. The potential for non‐lethal infections byF. circinatumto induce resistance in seedlings may influence dynamics of stand establishment. Overall, these results indicate that pathogenic organisms with asymptomatic states may have cryptic ecological functions that extend beyond the impacts of disease.
Semi‐automatic software based detection of atrial fibrillation in acute ischaemic stroke and transient ischaemic attack
Authors: Nickelsen M. N. , Snoer A. , Ali A. M. , Wienecke T. 
Published: December 2016

Background and purposeParoxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) is often asymptomatic and increases the risk of ischaemic stroke. Detection of PAF is challenging but crucial because a change of treatment decreases the risk of ischaemic stroke. Post‐stroke investigations recommend at least 24‐h continuous cardiac rhythm monitoring. Extended monitoring detects more PAF but is limited by costs due to manual analysis. Interpretive software might be a reasonable screening tool. The aim was to validate the performance and utility of Pathfinder SL software compared to manual analysis.MethodsIn all, 135 ischaemic stroke patients with no prior history of PAF or atrial fibrillation and who had done a 7‐day continuous electrocardiogram monitoring (Holter) were included. Manual analysis was compared with Pathfinder SL software including a systematic control of registered events.ResultsSeventeen (12.6%) patients were diagnosed with PAF (atrial fibrillation > 30 s). Pathfinder SL software including a systematic control of events registered 16 (94.1%) patients with PAF. Manually 15 (88.2%) patients were detected with PAF. Pathfinder SL had a negative predictive value of 99% and sensitivity of 94%.ConclusionsPathfinder SL software including a systematic evaluation of events is an acceptable alternative compared to manual analysis in PAF detection following ischaemic stroke. It is less time consuming and therefore a reliable, cheaper alternative compared to manual analysis.
Presence and distribution of yeasts in the reproductive tract in healthy female horses
Authors: Azarvandi A. , Khosravi A. R. , Shokri H. , Talebkhan Garoussi M. , Gharahgouzlou F. , Vahedi G. , Sharifzadeh A. 
Published: December 2016

SummaryBackgroundYeasts are commensal organisms found in the reproductive and gastrointestinal tracts, and on the skin and other mucosa in mammals.ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to isolate and identify yeast flora in the caudal reproductive tract in healthy female horses.Study designLongitudinal study.MethodsA total of 453 samples were collected using double‐guarded swabs from the vestibule, clitoral fossa and vagina in 151 horses. All samples were cultured on Sabouraud 4% dextrose agar and incubated at 35°C for 7–10 days. Isolates were identified according to their morphological characteristics and biochemical profiles.ResultsYeast colonies were isolated from 60 (39.7%) of the 151 horses. The isolated yeasts belonged to nine genera, and includedCandidaspp. (53.2%),Cryptococcusspp. (12.2%),Saccharomycesspp. (10.5%),Geotrichumspp. (8.0%),Rhodotorulaspp. (7.1%),Malasseziaspp. (3.7%),Trichosporonspp. (2.6%),Kluyveromycesspp. (2.6%) andSporothrixspp. (0.2%).Candida krusei(43.1%) was the most frequentCandidaspecies isolated. There was a significant difference in prevalence betweenC. kruseiand otherCandidaspecies (P<0.05). The vestibule contained more yeast isolates (48.0%) than the vagina (18.3%). The isolation of yeast colonies from multiparous females (76.8%) was significantly higher than from maiden mares (P<0.05).Main limitationsThe study was limited by the difficulty of distinguishing between normal flora and potential pathogens.ConclusionsCandidaspp., in particularC. krusei, represent important flora resident in the caudal reproductive tract in healthy female horses. This is particularly important in contexts that require the initiation of empirical treatment prior to the completion of culture results.
Balance evaluation in haemophilic preadolescent patients using Nintendo Wii Balance Board®
Authors: Pérez‐Alenda S. , Carrasco J. J. , Aguilar‐Rodríguez M. , Martínez‐Gómez L. , Querol‐Giner M. , Cuesta‐Barriuso R. , Torres‐Ortuño A. , Querol F. 
Published: December 2016

IntroductionAlterations in the musculoskeletal system, especially in the lower limbs, limit physical activity and affect balance and walking. Postural impairments in haemophilic preteens could increase the risk of bleeding events and deteriorate the physical condition, promoting the progression of haemophilic arthropathy.AimThis study aims to evaluate static postural balance in haemophilic children, assessed by means of the Wii Balance Board® (WBB).MethodsNineteen children with haemophilia and 19 without haemophilia aged 9–10 years, have participated in this study. Postural balance was assessed by performing four tests, each one lasting 15 s: bipodal eyes open (BEO), bipodal eyes closed (BEC), monopodal dominant leg (MD) and monopodal non‐dominant leg (MND). Two balance indices, standard deviation of amplitude (SDA) and standard deviation of velocity (SDV) were calculated in the anterior–posterior (AP) and medial–lateral (ML) directions.ResultsIndex values were higher in haemophilic group and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05) in only six (SDAAP in BEO, BEC and MD conditions, SDAML in BEO, SDVAP in BEO and SDVML in MND condition) of 16 parameters analysed.ConclusionTests performed indicate a poorer static postural balance in the haemophilic cohort compared to the control group. Accordingly, physiotherapy programmes, physical activity and sports should be designed to improve the postural balance with the aim of preventing joint deterioration and improving quality of life.
Free gingival grafts for implants exhibiting lack of keratinized mucosa: a prospective controlled randomized clinical study
Authors: Oh Se‐Lim , Masri Radi M. , Williams David A. , Ji Chao , Romberg Elaine 
Published: December 2016

AbstractIntroductionTo evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes following free gingival grafts (FGGs) around implants with limited keratinized mucosa (KM) during 18 months follow‐up compared to oral prophylaxis without augmentation.Materials and MethodsThis prospective controlled randomized blind clinical study investigated 41 implants displaying lack of KM in 28 subjects. After baseline examination, 14 subjects in the experimental group received FGGs followed by oral prophylaxis and 14 subjects in the control group received oral prophylaxis only. The width of KM, the level of mucosal margin, pocket depths, plaque index, and gingival index (GI) were assessed at baseline, 6, 12, and 18 months. Changes in crestal bone levels, from baseline, were assessed at 18 months.ResultsThere was a significant gain in KM in the FGG group compared to controls at 6, 12, 18 months. The mean GI was significantly lower for the FGG group at all follow‐ups. Crestal bone loss in the FGG group was significantly less than the control group (mesial: p = 0.0005, distal: p = 0.042) at 18 months.ConclusionsFree gingival graft for implants exhibiting lack of KM is a viable treatment option to reduce mucosal inflammation and to maintain crestal bone level in the short term.
Efficacy and safety of premixed insulin analogs in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review
Authors: Sheu Wayne H‐H , Ji Linong , Lee Woo Je , Jabbar Abdul , Han Jeong Hee , Lew Thomas 
Published: December 2016

AbstractAims/IntroductionThe primary aim of this systematic review was to provide an overview of the efficacy and safety of premixed insulin analogs in Asians, specifically East Asians, with type 2 diabetes.Material and MethodsThe MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched from 1 January 1995 to 26 November 2015. Randomized controlled trials involving East Asians with type 2 diabetes treated with any premixed insulin analog were included. Major comparator treatments were basal insulin and basal–bolus insulin. Comparisons were also made between East Asian and Caucasian patients. The primary efficacy outcome was glycated hemoglobin change from baseline to end‐point. The primary safety outcome was the incidence of hypoglycemia.ResultsA total of 21 studies were included; most (n = 14) were carried out in China or Japan. The duration of treatment ranged from 12 to 48 weeks. The glycated hemoglobin mean/least squares mean change from baseline to end‐point after treatment with premixed insulin analogs ranged from −0.12 to −4.2% (improvement was generally more pronounced with insulin initiation vs intensification). The incidence of hypoglycemia ranged from 8.3 to 72.0% in most studies, with the variability reflecting the definition of hypoglycemia used. Efficacy and safety outcomes for premixed insulin analogs were generally similar to those for basal or basal–bolus insulin. Limited evidence suggests that dosing, efficacy and safety profiles might differ slightly between East Asian and Caucasians receiving premixed insulin analogs.ConclusionsThese results support the current use of premixed insulin analogs for managing East Asian patients with type 2 diabetes.
Reduction of medication errors related to sliding scale insulin by the introduction of a standardized order sheet
Authors: Harada Saki , Suzuki Akio , Nishida Shohei , Kobayashi Ryo , Tamai Sayuri , Kumada Keisuke , Murakami Nobuo , Itoh Yoshinori 
Published: December 2016

AbstractInsulin is frequently used for glycemic control. Medication errors related to insulin are a common problem for medical institutions. Here, we prepared a standardized sliding scale insulin (SSI) order sheet and assessed the effect of its introduction. Observations before and after the introduction of the standardized SSI template were conducted at Gifu University Hospital. The incidence of medication errors, hyperglycemia, and hypoglycemia related to SSI were obtained from the electronic medical records. The introduction of the standardized SSI order sheet significantly reduced the incidence of medication errors related to SSI compared with that prior to its introduction (12/165 [7.3%] vs 4/159 [2.1%], P = .048). However, the incidence of hyperglycemia (≥250 mg/dL) and hypoglycemia (≤50 mg/dL) in patients who received SSI was not significantly different between the 2 groups. The introduction of the standardized SSI order sheet reduced the incidence of medication errors related to SSI.
First trimester pregnancy loss: Clinical implications of genetic testing
Authors: Massalska Diana , Zimowski Janusz Grzegorz , Bijok Julia , Pawelec Magdalena , Czubak‐Barlik Małgorzata , Jakiel Grzegorz , Roszkowski Tomasz 
Published: December 2016

AbstractAround 10–15% of pregnancies result in a spontaneous first trimester miscarriage, which is most frequently caused by chromosomal abnormalities, mainly aneuploidies. Genetic analysis of pregnancy loss includes conventional G‐banding karyotyping and various molecular methods. Apart from variable methodological limitations, the effectiveness of genetic analysis depends on the type and quality of the tested sample. To improve the reliability of genetic testing, we present methods of appropriate collection and pre‐laboratory preparation of chorionic villi from first trimester miscarriage. We also discuss issues of maternal cell contamination, placental mosaicism and reciprocal and Robertsonian translocations in the context of interpretation of the results and genetic counseling.
Safety of total laparoscopic hysterectomy in patients with prior cesarean section
Authors: Lim Soyi , Lee Seungho , Choi Joohyun , Chon Seungjoo , Lee Kwangbeom , Shin Jinwoo 
Published: December 2016

AbstractAimPatients who have undergone a cesarean section (CS) prior to hysterectomy are at a higher perioperative risk of complications. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) in patients with prior CS.MethodsWe enrolled 482 patients treated with TLH. Surgical outcomes including major complications were compared between patients without prior CS (no CS group; n = 324) and patients with prior CS (prior CS group; n = 158). Major complications included vaginal cuff dehiscence, and bowel, bladder, ureter and great vessel injuries.ResultsMajor complications, uterus weight, hospital day, unscheduled transfusion and conversion to laparotomy did not differ significantly between groups. One bowel injury occurred in the no CS group. Two vaginal cuff dehiscences and one bladder injury occurred in the prior CS group. There were no ureter or great vessel injuries. Operation duration was longer (P = 0.030) in the prior CS group, but only seven minutes longer than the no CS group. The Foley catheter indwelling day was also significantly longer (P < 0.001) in the prior CS group, but did not last one day. The number of prior CS had no effect on the major complication rate. After treatment of major complications, no long‐term sequelae were observed.ConclusionsTLH in patients with a history of CS can be performed safely as such history had no effect on the major complication rate. Complications were rare and were treated successfully.
Impact of laparoscopic ovarian detorsion on ovarian reserve
Authors: Yasa Cenk , Dural Ozlem , Bastu Ercan , Zorlu Masallah , Demir Omer , Ugurlucan Funda Gungor 
Published: December 2016

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to evaluate ovarian reserve after laparoscopic ovarian detorsion in patients with ovarian torsion.MethodsFrom February 2014 to September 2015, a total of 11 patients with ovarian torsion underwent laparoscopic detorsion. These 11 patients were eligible for study, and ovarian reserve was assessed on serum anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) and by antral follicle count preoperatively, and in postoperative months 1 and 3.ResultsMean patient age was 25.4 ± 5.5 years. Although mean antral follicle count on the operated side was slightly lower than on the contralateral side at 1 month postoperatively (P > 0.05), at 3 months postoperatively there was no difference in mean antral follicle count between the operated and contralateral sides (P > 0.05). There was no significant change in serum AMH level at 1 and 3 months postoperatively compared with the preoperative level (P > 0.05).ConclusionsLaparoscopic detorsion of twisted ovary is a safe procedure to preserve ovarian function, and does not impair ovarian reserve according to antral follicle count and AMH during the course of follow‐up.
Erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents significantly delay the onset of a regular transfusion need in nontransfused patients with lower‐risk myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Garelius H. K. G. , Johnston W. T. , Smith A. G. , Park S. , de Swart L. , Fenaux P. , Symeonidis A. , Sanz G. , Čermák J. , Stauder R. , Malcovati L. , Mittelman M. , van de Loosdrecht A. A. , van Marrewijk C. J. , Bowen D. , Crouch S. , de Witte T. J. M. , Hellström‐Lindberg E. 
Published: December 2016

AbstractBackgroundThe EUMDS registry is an unique prospective, longitudinal observational registry enrolling newly diagnosed patients with lower‐risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) from 17 European countries from both university hospitals and smaller regional hospitals.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to describe the usage and clinical impact of erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents (ESAs) in 1696 patients enrolled between 2008 and 2014.MethodsThe effects of ESAs on outcomes were assessed using proportional hazards models weighting observations by propensity to receive ESA treatment within a subset of anaemic patients with or without a regular transfusion need.ResultsESA treatment (median duration of 27.5 months, range 0–77 months) was administered to 773 patients (45.6%). Outcomes were assessed in 897 patients (484 ESA treated and 413 untreated). ESA treatment was associated with a nonsignificant survival benefit (HR 0.82, 95% CI: 0.65–1.04, P = 0.09); this benefit was larger amongst patients without prior transfusions (P = 0.07). Amongst 539 patients for whom response to ESA treatment could be defined, median time to first post‐ESA treatment transfusion was 6.1 months (IQR: 4.3–15.9 months) in those transfused before ESA treatment compared to 23.3 months (IQR: 7.0–47.8 months) in patients without prior transfusions (HR 2.4, 95% CI: 1.7–3.3, P < 0.0001). Responding patients had a better prognosis in terms of a lower risk of death (HR 0.65, 95% CI: 0.45–0.893, P = 0.018), whereas there was no significant effect on the risk of progression to acute myeloid leukaemia (HR 0.71, 95% CI: 0.39–1.29, P = 0.27).ConclusionAppropriate use of ESAs can significantly delay the onset of a regular transfusion need in patients with lower‐risk MDS.
Mindfulness interventions for psychosis: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Aust J. , Bradshaw T. 
Published: December 2016

Accessible summaryWhat is known on the subject?

Psychosis and the more specific diagnosis of schizophrenia constitute a major psychiatric disorder which impacts heavily on the self‐esteem, functioning and quality of life of those affected.

A number of mindfulness therapies have been developed in recent years, showing promising results when used with people with the disorder.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge?

This review of the literature included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs), rather than other typically less robust methods of research (e.g. case studies, noncontrolled studies).

What are the implications for practice?

We concluded that mindfulness therapies can be safely used with people with psychosis and that they provide a number of therapeutic benefits compared with routine care and, in some cases, other interventions.

Larger, methodologically improved trials are now recommended to evaluate the benefits of mindfulness therapies further.

AbstractIntroductionA growing number of mindfulness interventions are being used with individuals with psychosis. These therapies employ elements of acceptance and compassion in addition to mindfulness. A number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of these interventions have emerged in recent years, but no review of these latest trials exists.Question‘For individuals with psychosis, are mindfulness interventions more effective than treatment as usual or an alternative intervention, in improving patient‐related outcomes as demonstrated in RCTs?’MethodWe undertook a systematic review of randomized controlled studies of mindfulness interventions for psychosis and schizophrenia (MIps). Studies were identified by searching the databases Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Allied and Complementary Medicine.FindingsThe review identified 11 RCTs investigating eight mindfulness interventions. Significant improvements were reported on a number of measures, although gains were mostly smaller in trials employing well‐designed controls and where assessors were blind to treatment allocation. There was considerable heterogeneity amongst trials in the diversity of treatments reviewed and the range of outcomes assessed.Implications for PracticeThe findings suggest MIps are feasible for individuals with psychosis and provide a number of significant benefits over routine care and, in some cases, other interventions.