bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of dexmedetomidine on hepatic ischemia–reperfusion injury in the setting of adult living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Fayed Nirmeen A. , Sayed Eman I. , Saleh Sherif M. , Ehsan Nermen A. , Elfert Ashraf Y. 
Published: February 2016

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the hypothesis that intraoperative infusion of dexmedetomidine can exert a protective effect against hepatic ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) in adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLiver transplantation).Patients and methodsForty recipients were allocated into: control group (group I; n = 20) that received a placebo; and dexmedetomidine group (group II; n = 20) that received a continuous intraoperative infusion of 0.8 μg/kg/h of dexmedetomidine. Data collected were AST, ALT, bilirubin, INR, and lactate, at baseline, immediately post‐operatively, and on post‐operative days 1, 3, and 5. Intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) was measured at: baseline, 2 and 6 h after reperfusion, and on post‐operative day 1. At the end of the surgery, a liver biopsy was sent for histopathological assessment.ResultsNo significant difference was noticed in either group regarding MELD score, baseline AST, ALT, bilirubin, INR, or lactate. Dexmedetomidine tended to decrease blood pressure and heart rate, but the comparison was insignificant. Group II showed significantly attenuated levels of ICAM‐1 and significantly minimal histopathological changes. The laboratory changes showed significantly lower AST, ALT, bilirubin, INR, and lactate in group II.ConclusionsDexmedetomidine exerted protective effects against hepatic IRI during adult LDLiver transplantation, as indicated by suppression of ICAM‐1, better scores of histopathological assessment, and augmented post‐operative liver function tests.
Sex differences in metabolic rate and swimming performance in pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha): the effect of male secondary sexual traits
Authors: Makiguchi Yuya , Nii Hisaya , Nakao Katsuya , Ueda Hiroshi 
Published: February 2016

AbstractDo secondary sexual traits, such as large dorsal hump and hooked snout, decrease the swimming efficiency of male pink salmon during freshwater migration? This is the first study to address the effects of secondary sexual traits in pink salmon on oxygen uptake and swimming capacity. We conducted a laboratory experiment using a swimming respirometer and a field study using electromyogram (EMG) telemetry in the Shibetsu River, Hokkaido, Japan. We compared the relationship between MO2 (mg O2·kg−1·h−1) and swimming velocity U (m·s−1) in male and female fish, and also investigated the effects of morphological traits (secondary sexual characters) on the relationship between MO2 (mg O2·kg−1·h−1) and swimming velocity U (m·s−1). Additionally, we compared energy costs and swimming behaviour during upstream migration between male and female pink salmon. The laboratory experiment revealed that MO2 exponentially increased with increasing U; this increase was described by MO2 = 167.9e1.23U for males and 144.9e1.14U for females. Linear mixed models found that hump height and the upper jaw length in males significantly and positively affected the relationship between MO2 and U; no effect was found in females. The field study found that swimming velocity for both sexes estimated from EMG calibration was lower than optimal swimming velocity (Uopt) calculated from the laboratory experiment. We suggest that pink salmon in the Shibetsu River do not swim at the optimal swimming velocity because of the short migration distance involved (20 km).
Successful achievement of sustained virological response to triple combination therapy containing simeprevir in two patients with chronic hepatitis C who had failed asunaprevir:Daclatasvir combination therapy
Authors: Ozeki Itaru , Nakajima Tomoaki , Yamaguchi Masakatsu , Kimura Mutsuumi , Arakawa Tomohiro , Kuwata Yasuaki , Ohmura Takumi , Sato Takahiro , Hige Shuhei , Karino Yoshiyasu , Toyota Joji 
Published: February 2016

Patients 1 and 2 were treatment‐naive women who had genotype 1b chronic hepatitis C. Both had IL‐28B genotype TT, and amino acid substitutions of core 70 and 91 were both wild type. Search for the presence of resistance‐associated variants (RAV) in non‐structural (NS)3 and NS5A regions confirmed wild‐type D168 and L31, along with Y93H, in both patients. These patients participated in a Japanese phase III clinical study of asunaprevir and daclatasvir at the age of 52 and 67 years, respectively, and were treated with the combination regimen for 24 weeks. However, both experienced post‐treatment relapse, and then treated with triple combination therapy with simeprevir, pegylated interferon (IFN) and ribavirin at the age of 53 and 68 years, respectively, and achieved sustained virological response. A search for RAV prior to simeprevir treatment identified multiple resistance including D168E, Y93H and L31V in both patients. It has been demonstrated that, in many cases, a treatment failure with a combination of asunaprevir and daclatasvir results in acquisition of RAV in NS3 and NS5A regions and that drug‐resistant mutants, particularly those in the NS5A region, survive for a long time. In these cases, direct‐acting antivirals targeted towards the NS5A region may have a limited efficacy. The present case report is based on an idea that a regimen containing IFN with simeprevir could be a therapeutic option particularly for those who are likely to be highly sensitive and tolerable to IFN.
Quality and safety of irradiated food regarding biogenic amines: Ras cheese
Authors: Shalaby Ali R. , Anwar Mervat M. , Sallam Essam M. , Emam Wafaa H. 
Published: February 2016

SummaryFood safety and quality became very important, especially with the challenge to ensure safe and healthy foods in regard to chemical hazards. So, this study was conducted to evaluate the quality and safety of irradiated Ras cheese during the storage period, with respect to biogenic amines (BAs). Ras cheese was manufactured, ripened and irradiated by γ‐irradiation at 0, 5, 10 and 15 kGy. The samples were stored in refrigerator at 5 ± 1 °C from where samples were withdrawn at 0, 2, 4 and 6 months for analysis. The results revealed that most sensory scores and chemical properties showed insignificant differences (P ≤ 0.05). The microbial counts were reduced with different degrees according to both storage period and irradiation dose. Also, irradiation was effective in reducing the content of BAs without harming the chemical properties of Ras cheese. The total content of BAs reflects the safety of irradiated Ras cheese and also indicates a high‐quality product in comparison with nonirradiated samples.
Forecasting influenza outbreak dynamics in Melbourne from Internet search query surveillance data
Authors: Moss Robert , Zarebski Alexander , Dawson Peter , McCaw James M. 
Published: February 2016

BackgroundAccurate forecasting of seasonal influenza epidemics is of great concern to healthcare providers in temperate climates, as these epidemics vary substantially in their size, timing and duration from year to year, making it a challenge to deliver timely and proportionate responses. Previous studies have shown that Bayesian estimation techniques can accurately predict when an influenza epidemic will peak many weeks in advance, using existing surveillance data, but these methods must be tailored both to the target population and to the surveillance system.ObjectivesOur aim was to evaluate whether forecasts of similar accuracy could be obtained for metropolitan Melbourne (Australia).MethodsWe used the bootstrap particle filter and a mechanistic infection model to generate epidemic forecasts for metropolitan Melbourne (Australia) from weekly Internet search query surveillance data reported by Google Flu Trends for 2006–14.Results and ConclusionsOptimal observation models were selected from hundreds of candidates using a novel approach that treats forecasts akin to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. We show that the timing of the epidemic peak can be accurately predicted 4–6 weeks in advance, but that the magnitude of the epidemic peak and the overall burden are much harder to predict. We then discuss how the infection and observation models and the filtering process may be refined to improve forecast robustness, thereby improving the utility of these methods for healthcare decision support.
Characterization, establishment and persistence under grazing of nitrous oxide‐induced octoploid Phalaris aquatica L.
Authors: Kelman W. M. , Oram R. N. , Hayes J. E. 
Published: February 2016

AbstractThe increased seed size of induced polyploid forms has been an important component of improved seedling vigour of small‐seeded pasture species. Nitrous oxide was used to produce an octoploid form of the F3 generation of a cross between the closely related tetraploid cultivars, Uneta and Australian phalaris (Phalaris aquatica L.; 2n=28). A high degree of recovery of octoploid plants (30%) was attained by nitrous oxide treatment. Increases in seed weight, glume length, stomatal guard cell length and pollen grain diameter of 13–84% were recorded in glasshouse‐grown plants of the octoploid compared with the tetraploid parent population. In a field experiment the superior establishment of the octoploid compared with the tetraploid was interpreted as evidence of the better establishment capacity of the octoploid from deep placement of the seed. However, there was a greater loss of octoploid seedlings over summer, and a greater reduction in the basal area of the sward under continuous grazing than in the tetraploid. Although the octoploid swards produced significantly less phalaris dry weight than the tetraploid in exclosures, the total herbage dry weight of the two types was not significantly different in three of four cuts taken over 2 years. This result supports the view that the more erect, sparsely tillered growth habit of the octoploid phalaris is conducive to the productivity of other sward components.
Impact on quality of life of a nursing intervention programme for patients with chronic non‐cancer pain: an open, randomized controlled parallel study protocol
Authors: Morales‐Fernandez Angeles , Morales‐Asencio Jose Miguel , Canca‐Sanchez Jose Carlos , Moreno‐Martin Gabriel , Vergara‐Romero Manuel ,   Group for pain management Hospital Costa del Sol Members
Published: February 2016

AbstractAimTo determine the effect of a nurse‐led intervention programme for patients with chronic non‐cancer pain.BackgroundChronic non‐cancer pain is a widespread health problem and one that is insufficiently controlled. Nurses can play a vital role in pain management, using best practices in the assessment and management of pain under a holistic approach where the patient plays a proactive role in addressing the disease process. Improving the quality of life, reducing disability, achieving acceptance of health status, coping and breaking the vicious circle of pain should be the prime objectives of our care management programme.DesignOpen randomized parallel controlled study.MethodsThe experimental group will undertake one single initial session, followed by six group sessions led by nurses, aimed at empowering patients for the self‐management of pain. Healthy behaviours will be encouraged, such as sleep and postural hygiene, promotion of physical activity and healthy eating. Educational interventions on self‐esteem, pain‐awareness, communication and relaxing techniques will be carried out. As primary end points, quality of life, perceived level of pain, anxiety and depression will be evaluated. Secondary end points will be coping and satisfaction. Follow‐up will be performed at 12 and 24 weeks. The study was approved by the Ethics and Research Committee Costa del Sol.DiscussionIf significant effects were detected, impact on quality of life through a nurse‐led programme would offer a complementary service to existing pain clinics for a group of patients with frequent unmet needs.
Newly graduated nurses’ use of knowledge sources: a meta‐ethnography
Authors: Voldbjerg Siri Lygum , Grønkjær Mette , Sørensen Erik Elgaard , Hall Elisabeth O.C. 
Published: February 2016

AbstractAimTo advance evidence on newly graduated nurses’ use of knowledge sources.BackgroundClinical decisions need to be evidence‐based and understanding the knowledge sources that newly graduated nurses use will inform both education and practice. Qualitative studies on newly graduated nurses’ use of knowledge sources are increasing though generated from scattered healthcare contexts. Therefore, a metasynthesis of qualitative research on what knowledge sources new graduates use in decision‐making was conducted.DesignMeta‐ethnography.Data sourcesNineteen reports, representing 17 studies, published from 2000–2014 were identified from iterative searches in relevant databases from May 2013–May 2014.Review methodsIncluded reports were appraised for quality and Noblit and Hare's meta‐ethnography guided the interpretation and synthesis of data.ResultsNewly graduated nurses’ use of knowledge sources during their first 2‐year postgraduation were interpreted in the main theme ‘self and others as knowledge sources,’ with two subthemes ‘doing and following’ and ‘knowing and doing,’ each with several elucidating categories. The metasynthesis revealed a line of argument among the report findings underscoring progression in knowledge use and perception of competence and confidence among newly graduated nurses.ConclusionThe transition phase, feeling of confidence and ability to use critical thinking and reflection, has a great impact on knowledge sources incorporated in clinical decisions. The synthesis accentuates that for use of newly graduated nurses’ qualifications and skills in evidence‐based practice, clinical practice needs to provide a supportive environment which nurtures critical thinking and questions and articulates use of multiple knowledge sources.
Development of a conceptual policy framework for advanced practice nursing: an ethnographic study
Authors: Schober Madrean M. , Gerrish Kate , McDonnell Ann 
Published: February 2016

AbstractAimTo report on a study examining policy development for advanced practice nursing from intent of policy to realization in practice.BackgroundInclusion of advanced practice nursing roles in the healthcare workforce is a worldwide trend. Optimal advanced nursing practice requires supportive policies. Little is known about how policy is developed and implemented.DesignEthnography using an instrumental case study approach was selected to give an in‐depth understanding of the experiences of one country (Singapore) to contribute to insight into development elsewhere.MethodsThe four‐phase study was conducted from 2008–2012 and included document analysis (n = 47), interviews with key policy decision makers (n = 12), interviews with nursing managers and medical directors (n = 11), interviews and participant observation with advanced practice nurses (n = 15).ResultsKey policymakers in positions of authority were able to promote policy development. However, this was characterized by lack of strategic planning for implementation. A vague understanding by nursing managers and medical directors of policies, the role and its position in the healthcare workforce led to indecision and uncertainty in execution. Advanced practice nurses developed their role based on theory acquired in their academic programme but were unsure what role to assume in practice. Lack of clear guidelines led to unanticipated difficulties for institutions and healthcare systems.ConclusionStrategic planning could facilitate integration of advanced practice nurses into the healthcare workforce. A Conceptual Policy Framework is proposed as a guide for a coordinated approach to policy development and implementation for advanced practice nursing.
The social affirmation use of social media as a motivator of collective action
Authors: Kende Anna , van Zomeren Martijn , Ujhelyi Adrienn , Lantos Nóra Anna 
Published: February 2016

AbstractThe mobilizing potential of the internet has been widely recognized but also sharply criticized. We propose and test in two studies that the social affirmation use of social media motivates individuals for collective action to achieve social change. In Study 1, we surveyed participants of a university occupation and found that enduring participation was predicted by social affirmation use, mediated by group identification. In Study 2 we experimentally tested our hypothesis, the results of which confirmed that the social affirmation use of a forum (and in particular its interactive aspect) motivated individuals for collective action to achieve social change. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of our findings for theory and research on the mobilizing potential of the internet.
Long‐distance dispersal and barriers shape genetic structure of peatmosses (Sphagnum) across the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Kyrkjeeide Magni Olsen , Hassel Kristian , Flatberg Kjell Ivar , Shaw A. Jonathan , Brochmann Christian , Stenøien Hans K. 
Published: February 2016

AbstractAimDisjunctly distributed peatmosses (Sphagnum) have been found to exhibit little genetic structure over regional and intercontinental scales, mainly caused by high ability for transoceanic long‐distance dispersal. Although, most Northern Hemisphere peatmoss species have wide circumboreal/nemoral ranges, little is known about the magnitude and effects of long‐distance dispersal and barriers in shaping the genetic structure of such species. We investigate whether high dispersal capacity has caused genetic homogeneity across broad areas of the Northern Hemisphere, or whether barriers act to shape genetic structure across different species with similar distributional ranges.LocationNorthern Hemisphere.MethodsWe studied genetic variation and structure in six Sphagnum species using 19 microsatellite loci.ResultsFour out of six species were genetically structured in similar ways; with mainly one Beringian and one Atlantic group. Overall, both the North American and Eurasian continents seemed to act as a barrier to gene flow in several species. However, the most abrupt breakpoint between genetic groups was found in south‐east Alaska.Main conclusionsWe found evidence for extensive gene flow between regions across the Northern Hemisphere among peatmosses, with oceans seemingly acting as weaker barriers to gene flow than landmasses. Plants from the amphi‐Atlantic and amphi‐Beringian regions of several species were genetically differentiated. Similar genetic structuring across several species, indicate that spore‐producing species do not disperse freely across their entire distributional range, but are likely limited by wind directions, landmass barriers and/or habitat availability.
Bone biology‐related gingival transcriptome in ageing and periodontitis in non‐human primates
Authors: Pandruvada Subramanya N. , Gonzalez Octavio A. , Kirakodu Sreenatha , Gudhimella Sudha , Stromberg Arnold J. , Ebersole Jeffrey L. , Orraca Luis , Gonzalez‐Martinez Janis , Novak Michael J. , Huja Sarandeep S. 
Published: February 2016

AbstractAimCellular and molecular immunoinflammatory changes in gingival tissues drive alveolar bone loss in periodontitis. Since ageing is a risk factor for periodontitis, we sought to identify age‐related gingival transcriptome changes associated with bone metabolism in both healthy and in naturally occurring periodontitis.Materials and MethodsAdult (12–16 years) and aged (18–23 years) non‐human primates (M. mulatta) (n = 24) were grouped into healthy and periodontitis. Gingival tissue samples were obtained and subjected to microarray analysis using the Gene Chip Macaque Genome Array. Gene expression profiles involved in osteoclast/osteoblast proliferation, adhesion and function were evaluated and compared across and between the age groups. QPCR was also performed on selected genes to validate microarray data.ResultsHealthy aged tissues showed a gene profile expression that suggest enhancement of osteoclastic adhesion, proliferation/survival and function (SPP1, TLR4, MMP8 and TFEC) and impaired osteoblastic activity (SMEK3P and SMAD5). The gingival transcriptome in both adult and aged animals with naturally occurring periodontitis (FOS, IL6, TLR4, MMP9, MMP10 and SPP1 genes) was consistent with a local inflammatory response driving towards bone/connective tissue destruction.ConclusionA pro‐osteoclastogenic gingival transcriptome is associated with periodontitis irrespective of age; however; a greater bone‐destructive molecular environment is associated with ageing in healthy tissues.
Effects of acetyl‐L‐carnitine and methylcobalamin for diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, controlled trial
Authors: Li Sheyu , Chen Xiang , Li Qianrui , Du Juan , Liu Zhimin , Peng Yongde , Xu Mian , Li Qifu , Lei Minxiang , Wang Changjiang , Zheng Shaoxiong , Zhang Xiaojuan , Yu Hongling , Shi Jinyu , Tao Shibing , Feng Ping , Tian Haoming 
Published: February 2016

AbstractAims/IntroductionTo assess the efficacy and safety of acetyl‐L‐carnitine (ALC) on diabetic peripheral neuropathy compared with methylcobalamin (MC).Materials and methodsThis was a multicenter, randomized, parallel‐group, double‐blind, double‐dummy, positive‐controlled, non‐inferior phase II clinical trial. Diabetic patients with abnormal nerve conduction test results were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive oral ALC 500 mg t.i.d. or MC 0.5 mg t.i.d. for 24 weeks. The neuropathy symptom score, neuropathy disability score and neurophysiological parameters were measured during follow up.ResultsA total of 232 patients were randomized (ALC n = 117, MC n = 115), 88% of which completed the trial. At week 24, patients from both groups had significant reductions in both neuropathy symptom score and neuropathy disability score with no significant difference between two groups (neuropathy symptom score reduction: ALC vs MC 2.35 ± 2.23, P < 0.0001 vs 2.11 ± 2.48, P < 0.0001, intergroup P = 0.38; neuropathy disability score reduction ALC vs MC 1.66 ± 1.90, P < 0.0001 vs 1.35 ± 1.65, P < 0.0001, intergroup P = 0.23). Neurophysiological parameters were also improved in both groups. No significant difference was found between groups in the development of adverse events.ConclusionsALC is as effective as MC in improving clinical symptoms and neurophysiological parameters for patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy over a 24‐week period with good tolerance.