bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Predictive value of serum sST2 in preschool wheezers for development of asthma with high FeNO
Authors: Ketelaar M. E. , van de Kant K. D. , Dijk F. N. , Klaassen E. M. , Grotenboer N. S. , Nawijn M. C. , Dompeling E. , Koppelman G. H. 
Published: April 2017

AbstractWheezing is common in childhood. However, current prediction models of pediatric asthma have only modest accuracy. Novel biomarkers and definition of subphenotypes may improve asthma prediction. Interleukin‐1‐receptor‐like‐1 (IL1RL1 or ST2) is a well‐replicated asthma gene and associates with eosinophilia. We investigated whether serum sST2 predicts asthma and asthma with elevated exhaled NO (FeNO), compared to the commonly used Asthma Prediction Index (API). Using logistic regression modeling, we found that serum sST2 levels in 2‐3 years‐old wheezers do not predict doctors’ diagnosed asthma at age 6 years. Instead, sST2 predicts a subphenotype of asthma characterized by increased levels of FeNO, a marker for eosinophilic airway inflammation. Herein, sST2 improved the predictive value of the API (AUC=0.70, 95% CI 0.56‐0.84), but had also significant predictive value on its own (AUC=0.65, 95% CI 0.52‐0.79). Our study indicates that sST2 in preschool wheezers has predictive value for the development of eosinophilic airway inflammation in asthmatic children at school age.
Imaging collector channel entrance with a new intraocular micro‐probe swept‐source optical coherence tomography
Authors: Xin Chen , Chen Xiaoya , Li Meng , Shi Yan , Wang Huaizhou , Wang Ruikang , Wang Ningli 
Published: April 2017

AbstractPurposeTo describe the use of a newly developed side‐viewing catheter probe to provide the cross‐sectional images of collector channel entrance (CCE), achieved by swept‐source optical coherence tomography (SS‐OCT).MethodsA side‐viewing SS‐OCT catheter probe was developed that has a core probe diameter of 0.15 mm and an outer diameter of 0.25 mm, for the purpose of imaging CCEs within eye globe. Cadaver eyes harvested from swine and human were used to demonstrate its feasibility. For porcine eyes, the probe imaged the CCE by accessing the region of the aqueous plexus (AP) as well as along the inner wall (IW) of the trabecular meshwork (TM). For human eyes, the CCE images were captured by placing the probe within the lumen of the Schlemm's canal (SC) and along its IW.ResultsWith the optical coherence tomography (OCT) catheter probe, the CCE is well delineated as optically empty areas within the highly scattering sclera. In porcine eyes, images captured in the region of the AP demonstrate a large cavity with delicate tissue strands around the probe. The CCE can be identified at the outer margin of the AP. When imaged along the IW, the TM is discernable but difficult to be distinguished from the AP. In the human limbal regions, when placed within the lumen of the SC, the catheter probe fully occupies the potential space. TM is highly compact. The CCE can be identified at the outer wall of the SC. When imaged along the IW of TM, the SC and CCE can be identified.ConclusionThe intraocular SS‐OCT catheter probe is feasible to provide the CCE images, indicating useful clinical applications to assist glaucoma surgery.
Topical antibiotics and intravitreal injections
Authors: Hunyor Alex P. , Merani Rohan , Darbar Archie , Korobelnik Jean‐François , Lanzetta Paolo , Okada Annabelle A. 
Published: April 2017

AbstractThere is increasing evidence that topical antibiotics, given before and/or after intravitreal injections, are ineffective in preventing endophthalmitis and are possibly harmful. In addition to the lack of efficacy and increased development of resistant organisms, the use of topical antibiotics adds significantly to the cost of delivering intravitreal therapy. Despite this, in many countries, it is still common practice to use pre‐ and/or postinjection topical antibiotics. This review outlines the general principles of effective antibiotic prophylaxis, and the evidence regarding topical antibiotic use as a prophylactic measure for endophthalmitis following intravitreal injections. A key distinguishing feature of intravitreal injections from most other invasive procedures is the fact that they are often repeated on multiple occasions to the same eye. Given the lack of evidence to support topical antibiotics as an effective method of prophylaxis for postinjection endophthalmitis, it appears that more widespread education of ophthalmologists is required to avoid continued inappropriate use. Revision of drug labels in some jurisdictions, and amendment of local/professional society guidelines, may be required to assist in achieving this goal. Emphasis should be placed on antisepsis and aseptic technique, which are the major proven methods of endophthalmitis prevention, rather than antibiotics.
Factors affecting soil seed banks of riparian communities in an agricultural ecosystem: potential for conservation of native plant diversity
Authors: Dalton Rebecca L. , Carpenter David J. , Boutin Céline , Allison Jane E. 
Published: April 2017

AbstractQuestionsDo agricultural land use and nitrogen (N) enrichment have negative effects on riparian soil seed banks? What is the potential of the soil seed bank for the conservation and restoration of native riparian plant diversity? Are non‐native dominant grass species affected by agriculture and do they affect species richness?LocationSouth Nation River watershed (an agricultural watershed), Ontario, Canada.MethodsWe examined the riparian above‐ground vegetation at 24 sites located across a large (~4000 km2) North American watershed and identified the corresponding soil seed bank composition from soil cores using the seedling emergence method. The above‐ground vegetation and soil seed bank species compositions were compared in terms of species richness, percentage of non‐native species and a floristic quality index. Factors affecting these descriptors of plants communities (concentration of in‐stream nitrate and percentages of surrounding natural habitat and annual crop land) were assessed. The effects of agriculture on two dominant non‐native grasses species and their effects on species richness were also assessed.ResultsIn total, 274 plant taxa were identified, including 181 taxa in the soil seed bank and 231 taxa in the vegetation. Overall species richness was high in both the soil seed bank and above‐ground vegetation and was unaffected by measures of agricultural intensity (surrounding annual crop land and N enrichment). Above‐ground vegetation species richness was strongly negatively affected by the widespread and dominant non‐native grasses, Phalaris arundinacea and Bromus inermis, whereas soil seed bank species richness was unaffected. The community compositions of both the soil seed bank and vegetation were negatively affected by the loss of natural habitat and by N enrichment. In fact, an increase in the percentage of non‐native species and a decrease in floristic quality were observed along a gradient of agricultural intensity.ConclusionsSpecies richness of the soil seed bank demonstrated resilience to invasions by P. arundinacea and B. inermis, and the soil seed bank showed good potential for conservation of taxonomic diversity. However, the loss of natural habitat and N enrichment had negative effects on the soil seed bank community composition that may lead to an eventual decline in above‐ground species richness.
Treatment of chronic hepatitis C with direct‐acting antivirals in patients with β‐thalassaemia major and advanced liver disease
Authors: Sinakos Emmanouil , Kountouras Dimitrios , Koskinas John , Zachou Kalliopi , Karatapanis Stylianos , Triantos Christos , Vassiliadis Themistoklis , Goulis Ioannis , Kourakli Alexandra , Vlachaki Efthymia , Toli Barbara , Tampaki Maria , Arvaniti Pinelopi , Tsiaoussis Georgios , Bellou Aristea , Kattamis Antonis , Maragkos Konstantinos , Petropoulou Foteini , Dalekos George N. , Akriviadis Evangelos , Papatheodoridis George V. 
Published: April 2017

SummaryInterferon‐based regimens for chronic hepatitis C (CHC) were often deferred in patients with β‐thalasaemia major (β‐TM) due to poor efficacy and tolerance. Current guidelines recommend direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) for these patients. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of DAAs in patients with β‐TM and advanced liver disease due to CHC. Patients were recruited from eight liver units in Greece. The stage of liver disease was assessed using transient elastography and/or liver histology. Five regimens were used: sofosbuvir (SOF) + ribavirin (RBV); SOF + simeprevir ± RBV; SOF + daclatasvir ± RBV; ledipasvir/SOF ± RBV and ombitasvir/paritaprevir‐ritonavir + dasabuvir ± RBV. Sixty‐one patients (median age 43 years) were included. The majority of patients was previously treated for hepatitis C (75%) and had cirrhosis (79%). Viral genotype distribution was: G1a: n = 10 (16%); G1b: n = 22 (36%); G2: n = 2 (3%); G3: n = 14 (23%); G4: n = 13 (22%). The predominant chelation therapy was a combination of deferoxamine and deferiprone (35%). Overall sustained virological response rates were 90%. All treatment regimens were well tolerated and no major adverse events or drug‐drug interactions were observed. Approximately half of the patients who received RBV (7/16, 44%) had increased needs for blood transfusion. Treatment of CHC with DAAs in patients with β‐TM and advanced liver disease was highly effective and safe.
Who is at risk of death from nephrectomy? An analysis of thirty‐day mortality after 21 380 nephrectomies in 3 years of the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) National Nephrectomy Audit
Authors: Fernando Archie , Fowler Sarah , Van Hemelrijck Mieke , O'Brien Tim ,   the British Association of Urological Surgeons ( BAUS )
Published: April 2017

ObjectiveTo ascertain contemporary overall and differential thirty‐day mortality (TDM) rates after all types of nephrectomy in the UK, and to identify potential new risk factors for death.Patients and MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis of the 110 deaths that occurred within 30 days of surgery out of the total of 21 380 nephrectomies performed, and calculated the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for TDM based on peri‐operative characteristics.ResultsThe overall TDM rate was 110/21380 (0.5%). The TDM rates after radical, partial, simple nephrectomy and nephro‐ureterectomy were 0.6% (63/11057), 0.1% (4/3931), 0.4% (11/2819) and 0.9% (28/3091), respectively. TDM increased with age, stage, estimated blood loss (EBL), operating time and performance status. EBL of 1–2 L was associated with a greater risk of TDM than EBL of 2–5 L (OR 1.38; 95% CI 1.03–2.24). Conversion from minimally invasive surgery was associated with higher risk than non‐conversion (OR 2.53; 95% CI 1.14–4.51. Curative surgery was safer than cytoreductive surgery (OR 0.31; 95% CI 0.18–0.54). There was an association between surgical volume and TDM.ConclusionsThis study provides contemporary insights into the true risks of all types of nephrectomy. The TDM rate after nephrectomy in the UK appears acceptably low at 0.5%. Established risk factors were confirmed and the following novel risk factors were identified: modest EBL (1–2 L) and conversion from minimally invasive surgery.
Novel reduction‐sensitive micellar nanoparticles assembled from Rituximab–doxorubicin conjugates as smart and intuitive drug delivery systems for the treatment of non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Yin Huabin , Meng Tong , Shu Ling , Mao Min , Zhou Lei , Chen Haiyan , Song Dianwen 
Published: April 2017

In this study, a novel reduction‐sensitive drug delivery system, the rituximab–doxorubicin (RTX‐DOX) micellar nanoparticle (RDMN), was specially designed for targeted delivery and release of DOX in non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) cells. The RDMN was fabricated by self‐assembling of amphiphilic RTX‐DOX conjugates (RDCs), which were synthesized by conjugating the hydrophilic Fab fragments of RTX (an anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody) and hydrophobic DOXs by a reduction‐responsive linker, 3‐(2‐Pyridyldithio) propionyl hydrazide (PDPH). The RDMNs were characterized via dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy, both showed the sizes of approximately 94.1 ± 14.5 nm with a uniform size distribution. Polyplex dissociation, which was indicated by accelerated DOX release rate and increased particle size, was observed in the presence of 2.5 mm 1,4‐dithiothreitol due to the cleavage of disulfide bonds in PDPH linkers. In vitro transfection assays against human NHL cell line, JeKo‐1, showed significantly increased uptake for RDMNs, as compared to RDCs and free RTX/DOX. Both in and ex vivo experiments demonstrated that RDMNs showed the highest therapeutic effect among all the experimental groups. These results suggested that this RDMN could be a potential, safe and efficient drug delivery vector, which deserves further investigation in the clinic.
Spectrophotometric analysis of fluorescent zirconia abutments compared to “conventional” zirconia abutments: A within subject controlled clinical trial
Authors: Thoma Daniel S. , Gamper Felix B. , Sapata Vítor M. , Voce Giuseppe , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Sailer Irena 
Published: April 2017

AbstractBackgroundZirconia abutments are frequently used for implant‐supported single crowns. Even though demonstrating esthetic benefits compared to metal abutments, zirconia abutments lead to an increased brightness of the peri‐implant mucosa compared to natural teeth and are not ideal from an esthetic point of view.PurposeTo test whether or not a fluorescent hybrid zirconia abutment offers superior esthetics compared to a non‐fluorescent one‐piece zirconia abutment based on spectrophotometric analysis.Materials and MethodsIn 24 patients with 24 single‐tooth implants, 2 types of reconstructions were fabricated: a directly veneered one‐piece zirconia abutment/crown (control) and a directly veneered fluorescent hybrid zirconia abutment/crown (test). Spectrophotometric assessment was performed: prior to abutment insertion (WA), at abutment try‐in (A), at the try‐in of the final crowns (C). Color differences (ΔE) were assessed compared to the gingiva of natural teeth (T) and between the reconstructions.ResultsAt abutment try‐in, ΔE values were 8.49 ± 3.59 for AControl and 8.27 ± 4.03 for ATest compared to T. At crown insertion, ΔE values were 7.61 ± 4.03 for CControl and 8.32 ± 3.57 for CTest compared to T. The difference in ΔE values between AControl and ATest was 0.23 ± 2.54 (P = .37), whereas the difference in ΔE values between CControl and CTest was −0.66 ±3.45 (P = .48). For all cases with a mucosal thickness ≤2 mm, the comparison between CControl and CTest was significant in favor of the control group (P = .03).ConclusionsBoth types of reconstructions were similar in terms of esthetics. Incases with a mucosal thickness of <2 mm, the soft tissue discoloration compared to the natural gingiva was more pronounced for the fluorescent hybrid zirconia reconstructions.
Prevalence and characteristics of autism spectrum disorders in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Delobel‐Ayoub Malika , Klapouszczak Dana , van Bakel Marit Maria Elisabeth , Horridge Karen , Sigurdardottir Solveig , Himmelmann Kate , Arnaud Catherine 
Published: April 2017

AimTo evaluate the prevalence of co‐occurring autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) among children with cerebral palsy (CP), and to describe their characteristics.MethodThe data of 1225 CP cases from four population‐based registers (Iceland, Sweden, and two in France) and one population‐based surveillance programme (North East England, UK) participating in the Surveillance of Cerebral Palsy in Europe Network (SCPE) were analysed. The ASD diagnoses were systematically recorded using category F84 of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision. The registers provided data on children born between 1995 and 2006, while the cross‐sectional survey in the UK concerned children aged 0 to 19 years, registered in 2010.ResultsAmong the children with CP, 107 had an associated diagnosis of ASD – i.e., 8.7% of the study population (95% confidence interval 7.2–10.5). This proportion varied across centres from 4.0% to 16.7% but was independent of CP prevalence. Male sex, co‐occurring epilepsy, intellectual disability, and better walking ability were associated with the coexistence of ASD.InterpretationOur findings support the need for a multidisciplinary approach to management of children with CP to adequately identify and address all facets of presentation, including ASD.
Paradox of public sector capacity building: Lessons from MATT2 UK–Bangladesh co‐operation
Authors: Hossain Farhad , Kumasey Anthony Sumnaya , Eldridge Derek , Kravariti Foteini , Bawole Justice Nyigmah 
Published: April 2017

AbstractThis study focuses on the Government of Bangladesh and the UK Department for International Development (DFID) public sector capacity‐building project under collaborative public governance. It examines the efficiency and effectiveness of a foreign‐funded and multistakeholder‐led public sector capacity‐development initiative dubbed Managing at the Top Stage 2 (MATT2) project, and how it contributed to the human resource capacity development in Bangladesh. A combination of data from Government sources, in‐depth interviews, focus group discussions, participant observation and author analysis was adopted. The results showed the project to have been largely successful, despite some challenges.
The epileptology of Koolen‐de Vries syndrome: Electro‐clinico‐radiologic findings in 31 patients
Authors: Myers Kenneth A. , Mandelstam Simone A. , Ramantani Georgia , Rushing Elisabeth J. , de Vries Bert B. , Koolen David A. , Scheffer Ingrid E. 
Published: April 2017

SummaryObjectiveThis study was designed to describe the spectrum of epilepsy phenotypes in Koolen‐de Vries syndrome (KdVS), a genetic syndrome involving dysmorphic features, intellectual disability, hypotonia, and congenital malformations, that occurs secondary to 17q21.31 microdeletions and heterozygous mutations in KANSL1.MethodsWe were invited to attend a large gathering of individuals with KdVS and their families. While there, we recruited individuals with KdVS and seizures, and performed thorough phenotyping. Additional subjects were included who approached us after the family support group brought attention to our research via social media. Inclusion criteria were genetic testing results demonstrating 17q21.31 deletion or KANSL1 mutation, and at least one seizure.ResultsThirty‐one individuals were studied, aged 2–35 years. Median age at seizure onset was 3.5 years, and 9 of 22 had refractory seizures 2 years after onset. Focal impaired awareness seizures were the most frequent seizure type occurring in 20 of 31, usually with prominent autonomic features. Twenty‐one patients had prolonged seizures and, at times, refractory status epilepticus. Electroencephalography (EEG) showed focal/multifocal epileptiform discharges in 20 of 26. MRI studies of 13 patients were reviewed, and all had structural anomalies. Corpus callosum dysgenesis, abnormal hippocampi, and dilated ventricles were the most common, although periventricular nodular heterotopia, focal cortical dysplasia, abnormal sulcation, and brainstem and cerebellum abnormalities were also observed. One patient underwent epilepsy surgery for a lesion that proved to be an angiocentric glioma.SignificanceThe typical epilepsy phenotype of KdVS involves childhood‐onset focal seizures that are prolonged and have prominent autonomic features. Multifocal epileptiform discharges are the typical EEG pattern. Structural brain abnormalities may be universal, including signs of abnormal neuroblast migration and abnormal axonal guidance. Epilepsy surgery should be undertaken with care given the widespread neuroanatomic abnormalities; however, tumors are a rare, yet important, occurrence.
The contemporary geographies of craft‐based manufacturing
Authors: Fox Miller Chloe 
Published: April 2017

AbstractThis paper reviews the literature on craft production to explore the ways in which the normative landscape of craft is affecting the contemporary geographies of craft‐based manufacturing. Craft forms of production have enjoyed a revival in recent decades in what is now called the “third‐wave” craft movement. In this paper, I consider the origins and characteristics of third‐wave craft as well as its historical precedents. I highlight 3 distinct geographies associated with contemporary craft‐based manufacturing, including a fusion of industrial and cultural production in industrial workspaces, a relocalization of small‐scale industrial production in advanced economies, and a tendency towards spatial agglomeration in both urban and rural areas. Drawing on the case of the American craft‐brewing sector, I offer a picture of these distinct geographies in a representative manufacturing industry and highlight the need to consider the ways in which craft production and articulations of its values manifest differently in different industries. Finally, I conclude by offering reflections on the landscape of craft‐based manufacturing and potential avenues for future geographical engagements with craft production.
Safety and effectiveness of room temperature stable recombinant factor VIIa in patients with haemophilia A or B and inhibitors: Results of a multinational, prospective, observational study
Authors: Kavakli K. , Demartis F. , Karimi M. , Eshghi P. , Neme D. , Chambost H. , Sommer L. , Zak M. , Benson G. 
Published: April 2017

IntroductionA room temperature stable formulation of recombinant activated factor VII (NovoSeven®), allowing convenient storage and therefore improved treatment access, has been developed. Bioequivalence to the previous NovoSeven® was demonstrated in healthy humans, leading to European approval (2008). Although no confirmed cases of neutralising antibodies to rFVIIa in patients with haemophilia A or B have been observed with the original formulation, changes in formulation or storage condition may alter immunogenicity.AimSMART‐7™ was designed to investigate the safety of NovoSeven® in a real‐world setting in patients with haemophilia A or B with inhibitors.MethodsStudy medication was not provided by the sponsor, and treatment was at the discretion of the treating physician, in accordance with the local label. Patient baseline information was collected at enrolment. Information on safety, drug exposure and bleeding episodes was collected and FVII antibody screening was encouraged at baseline and performed at the investigator's discretion.ResultsFifty‐one patients were enrolled and 31 completed the study. Forty‐one adverse events (AEs) were reported in 23 patients; 25 AEs in 14 patients were serious. No thromboembolic events were observed. Although four cases of reduced therapeutic response were reported, FVII antibody screening was negative. Forty‐eight patients experienced 618 bleeding episodes and 93.4% of 609 evaluated bleeds were stopped by treatment. Of the 538 bleeding episodes treated with NovoSeven® monotherapy, 94.2% stopped by end of treatment.ConclusionData collected during the SMART‐7™ study revealed no treatment‐related safety issues and no FVII‐binding antibodies for patients treated with NovoSeven® under real‐world conditions.