bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Observer‐blind randomized controlled study of a cosmetic blend of safflower, olive and other plant oils in the improvement of scar and striae appearance
Authors: Bielfeldt S. , Blaak J. , Staib P. , Simon I. , Wohlfart R. , Manger C. , Wilhelm K. P. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractObjectiveThe normal process of skin tissue repair following injury invariably results in visual scarring. It is known that topical treatment with hydrophobic cosmetics rich in silicone and mineral oil content can improve the appearance of scars and striae. Given lifestyle preferences of many cosmetic consumers towards so‐called natural treatments, the objective of this controlled randomized study was to investigate the efficacy of a plant body oil rich in oleic and linoleic acids (Bio Skin Oil®) for improving the appearance of scars and striae.MethodsA panel of 80 volunteers with non‐hypertrophic scars (40) or stretch marks (40) not older than 3 years applied a cosmetic face and body oil for 8 weeks. Compared to an untreated scar/stretch mark region, a blinded investigator as well as volunteer assessments with given observed parameters demonstrated the efficacy of the oil under test.ResultsOn the Observer Scar Assessment Scale (OSAS), the mean score was reduced on the product‐treated area by approximately 5% (P = 0.006). The untreated area remained unchanged. Observed effects by volunteers were more pronounced – Patient Scar Assessment Scale (PSAS) giving a reduction of approximately 20% on the treated area, and on the control untreated area a reduction of approximately 6%. The overall product effect of 14% was shown to be clearly significant (P = 0.001). All statements relating to product traits achieved higher frequencies of agreements than of non‐agreements and were therefore assessed positively by the volunteers. Highest frequencies of agreements occurred in statements that the test product provides a long‐lasting, soft and supple skin feeling (93%); caring effect (87%); and quick absorbance (84%). Agreement was also found for statements that the product improves the skin appearance (61%) and that scars/striae appear less pronounced (51%). Only 17% of volunteers felt the oil had no benefit to the appearance of their scars/striae.ConclusionsThe oil blend under test is effective in improving the appearance of non‐keloid scars and striae. Further work is required to understand the mechanisms of how plant oil fatty acids ameliorate scar and striae appearance.
Double emulsion‐encapsulated guggul exhibits improved in vivo hypocholesterolaemic action in rats
Authors: Lamba Heena , Sabikhi Latha , Aggarwal Dipesh , Choudhary Urmila , Reddi Srinu , Kapila Suman , Kapila Rajeev 
Published: November 2017

SummaryGuggul tree or Commiphora mukul is a small thorny herb having remarkable hypocholesterolaemic properties. Its therapeutic effects are because of its biocomponent guggulsterones, especially guggulsterone E and Z. In this research, double emulsion‐based spread was tried to improve the bioavailability of the herb guggul in in vivo rat model. The effect of the different diets with encapsulated and nonencapsulated guggul was evaluated and compared after 6 weeks, based on the final body weight and analysis of organs, serum and faeces of normal and hypercholesterolaemic (H) rats. It was evident from the results that double emulsion‐encapsulated guggul showed better control on weight of H rats (25.98% lower), inhibition of HMG CoA reductase (3.95 times less) activity and reduction in atherosclerotic index (47.2%), as compared to diet with unencapsulated guggul. Encapsulation of guggul also improved faecal excretion of bile acids, lipids and total cholesterol in H and normal rats.
A simulation study of an on‐demand transportation system
Authors: Archetti Claudia , Speranza M. Grazia , Weyland Dennis 
Published: November 2017

AbstractIn this paper we present the results of a simulation study aimed at assessing an on‐demand transportation system. The on‐demand system uses minibuses that have neither fixed itineraries nor fixed stops. The minibuses are dynamically routed to accommodate the requests received by the users. To use the on‐demand service, users communicate, close to their desired departure time, the origin and destination of the trip. They accept the service if the estimated arrival time at destination fulfills their service level threshold. In the simulation users may decide whether to walk, to use a standard bus, to call the on‐demand service, and, if none of these options is satisfactory, to use a private car. We consider different scenarios to assess the potential benefits of the introduction of an on‐demand service. We also analyze the scalability and responsiveness of the service. The results suggest that an on‐demand system may be able to satisfy a large portion of user transportation requests and may be put beside standard transportation systems in order to provide a better transportation service to the users and substantially reduce the use of private cars.
Explanatory Variables for National Socio‐Metabolic Profiles and the Question of Forecasting National Material Flows in a Globalized Economy
Authors: West James , Schandl Heinz 
Published: November 2017

SummaryIdentifying which socioeconomic factors can explain differences in national sociometabolic profiles, and quantifying how well they do it, is relevant to the question of whether national‐level material flows can be forecast accurately enough to inform policy. In this study, we employed panel analyses to test a wide range of socioeconomic variables with respect to their ability to explain variations in the material flows trajectories between different nations. We found that, apart from the long‐established explanatory variables of population and affluence (gross domestic product [GDP] per capita), additional variables do little to explain the remaining variation between countries. The main explanation proposed for this is that, as product supply chains are increasingly globalized, expecting national‐level material flows to closely reflect national‐level development is not appropriate. The effects of globalized trade on national material flows are profound, and come via a number of different mechanisms, discussed in the study. This implies that attempting long‐term prediction of national demand for primary materials is unlikely to be a fruitful activity, and that further efforts to refine existing models will probably not greatly improve results. Conversely, forecasting material flows at the global scale may not be unreasonable, but would be contingent on having accurate forecasts of population and GDP. The linkage of national material flows to the global economy has important implications for the efficacy of attempting to materially affect global sustainability via policy measures taken in isolation, at the national level.
Maternal peripartum septic shock caused by intrauterine infection with Edwardsiella tarda: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Miyazawa Yuki , Murakami Keisuke , Kizaki Yuichiro , Itaya Yukiko , Takai Yasushi , Seki Hiroyuki 
Published: November 2017

AbstractEdwardsiella tarda (E. tarda) is a rare pathogen in humans, especially during the peripartum period. Only a few cases of fatal neonatal infection with E. tarda have been reported. Herein, we describe a case of maternal septicemia caused by E. tarda following peripartum chorioamnionitis. The mother developed septic shock, disseminated intravascular coagulation and a post‐cesarean wound hematoma with abscess. Her condition improved with multidisciplinary therapy including blood transfusion, antimicrobial agents, recombinant thrombomodulin and surgical debridement. E. tarda was isolated from the maternal blood, cesarean wound and neonatal skin, pharynx and gastric fluid. This case demonstrates that peripartum infection with E. tarda is a rare but life‐threatening condition, not only for the neonate but also for the mother.
A “Jail Escape Technique” (JET) for distal side branch wiring during provisional stenting: Feasibility and first‐in‐man study
Authors: Xiao Han , Chen Shengda , Wang Guixue , Du Ruolin , Song Yaoming , Jin Jun , Huang Lan , Jabbour Richard , Azzalini Lorenzo , Zhao Xiaohui 
Published: November 2017

ObjectiveTo evaluate the feasibility of a novel technique for achieving distal SB access and improve strut apposition during provisional stenting.BackgroundWhile distal rewiring and stent expansion toward the side branch (SB) are associated with better results during provisional stenting of coronary artery bifurcation lesions, these techniques are technically challenging and often leave unopposed struts near the carina.MethodsThe “Jail Escape Technique” (JET) is performed by passing the proximal tip of the SB wire between the main vessel (MV) stent struts and balloon before implantation, allowing the MV stent to push the SB wire against the distal part of the carina. The MV stent can then be deployed without jailing the SB wire. Distal SB access and strut distribution at the carina were tested in phantom and swine models. Stent distortion, dislodgement forces, and material damage were evaluated with tensile testing. Human feasibility was then tested on 32 patients.ResultsPreclinical testing demonstrated that the SB wire was located at the most distal part of the carina and no strut malapposition at the carina was present after balloon inflation. Stent distortion, dislodgement forces, or material damage were not affected. JET was successfully performed in 30 of 32 patients. No major adverse cardiovascular events occurred in any patient at 6‐month follow‐up.ConclusionThe “JET” enables distal SB access and eliminates strut malapposition at the carina. Further studies with larger numbers of patients are needed to further investigate this technique.
Developing the System for Observing Behavioral Ecology for Youth in Schools Instrument
Authors: Lorenz Kent A. , van der Mars Hans , Kulinna Pamela H. , Ainsworth Barbara E. , Hovell Melbourne F. 
Published: November 2017

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDBehavioral support may be effective in increasing physical activity (PA) in school settings. However, there are no data collection systems to concurrently record PA and behavioral support. This paper describes the development and validation of the System for Observing Behavioral Ecology for Youth in Schools (SOBEYS)—an instrument used with existing observation systems to record PA within a behavioral ecological context.METHODSIn 2013, experts created a set of behavioral categories to record prompting and reinforcement of PA during a recreational school activity program. The school provided supervision and equipment for lunchtime PA, making it possible to assess both PA and behavioral support. The system was implemented in spring semester 2014 at 1 suburban junior high school (N = 1452; 48% girls, 74% Caucasian) in the western Unites States.RESULTSFollowing multiple field trials, the SOBEYS instrument recorded behavioral categories of visual and verbal prompting, verbal, and nonreinforcement by adults and peers, and token reinforcement. Construct validity and acceptable interobserver agreement (>90%; kappa between 0.22 and 0.94) resulted.CONCLUSIONTrained SOBEYS users can accurately and reliably record the presence of behavioral support aimed at prompting and reinforcing PA in conjunction with established systematic observation instruments to record PA context and quantity.
Corruption, intrinsic motivation, and the love of praise
Authors: Dhillon Amrita , Nicolò Antonio , Xu Fei 
Published: November 2017

AbstractDo higher wages prevent corruption (bribe taking)? We investigate a setting where individuals who apply for public sector jobs are motivated not just by monetary incentives but also by intrinsic motivation and concern for the collective reputation of their profession. We show that an increase in monetary compensation may cause reputation‐concerned individuals to be more prone to participate in corruption due to an “overjustification” effect. The overall effect of monetary incentives on fighting corruption crucially depends on the composition of the pool of public sector workers for two reasons: first, different types of workers react differently to the same policy; second, the composition of the pool of workers affects individual behavior through its effect on collective reputation. These results imply in particular that policies to fight corruption should focus more on increasing the collective reputation of the public sector rather than using monetary incentives, which have perverse effects on some agents.
Reactive oxygen species overproduction and MAP kinase phosphatase‐1 degradation are associated with gastroparesis in a streptozotocin‐induced male diabetic rat model
Authors: Smiley R. , Naik P. , McCallum R. , Showkat Ali M. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractBackgroundDiabetic gastroparesis in human and animal models suggest different developmental causes in females vs males. Previously, we demonstrated that although male and female diabetic gastroparetic rats exhibited similarity in disease pathology, molecular mechanisms were different: slow gastric emptying in male diabetic gastroparetic rats was not associated with the level of expression and dimerization of neuronal nitric oxide synthase α in gastric tissues, as was demonstrated in females. Male gastroparesis may involve other mechanisms, such as oxidative stress. We hypothesize that sustained increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and degradation of MAP kinase phosphatase‐1 with subsequent unregulated activation of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase and p38MAP kinase pathways are associated with gastroparesis in a male diabetic rat model.MethodsUsing a male rat model of diabetic gastroparesis, we analyzed serum and pyloric tissue for ROS and antioxidant enzyme levels using ELISA; MAP kinase phosphatase‐1, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinases, and p38MAP kinase levels utilized western blotting techniques and phospho‐specific antibodies.Key ResultsBoth diabetic and diabetic gastroparetic rats demonstrated overproduction of ROS. However, loss of MAP kinase phosphatase‐1, a MAP kinase pathway negative regulator, with subsequent activation of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase 2 and p38MAP kinase pathways, were observed only in diabetic gastroparetic rats. Diabetic rats without gastroparesis had no significant pathway activation.Conclusions & InferencesThese results suggest that sustained, increased ROS and degradation of MAP kinase phosphatase‐1, with subsequent unregulated activation of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase and p38MAP kinase pathways, are likely to be factors in diabetic gastroparesis phenotype in a male diabetic rat model.
Relationship between symptoms and quality of life in fecal incontinence
Authors: Bedard K. , Heymen S. , Palsson O. S. , Bharucha A. E. , Whitehead W. E. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractBackgroundMost measures of fecal incontinence (FI) severity assess the frequency of solid and liquid FI, but may incorporate other features. We compared two scales—the Fecal Incontinence Severity Score (FISS) and Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI)—to determine which questionnaire and which individual questions predict FI Quality of Life (FIQOL).MethodsA national sample of American adults completed a health questionnaire, and 234 with monthly FI were selected. Participants completed assessments of FI severity, FIQOL, and somatization. Stepwise linear regression models evaluated whether FISS and FISI total scores, or individual items on the FISS and FISI predicted FIQOL after adjusting for gender, age, income, and somatization (Brief Symptom Inventory‐18).Key ResultsReliable responses were provided by 186. Age was 49 years, and 52% were women. The mean FISS score was 8.4 (95% confidence interval [CI] 8.0‐8.9, 13 questions) and mean FISI was 29.9 (95% CI 27.4‐32.4, 62 questions), indicating moderate FI severity. The mean FIQOL was 2.6 (95% CI 2.4‐2.7, 5 questions). Lower income, greater somatization, and total FISS and FISI scores explained 69% of FIQOL; and total FISS and FISI scores were independent predictors. On the FISS, frequency, amount, and urgency to defecate were independently associated with FIQOL. After adding somatization, all but amount remained significant. For the FISI scale, solid and liquid FI and gas were significant predictors, but adjusting for somatization excluded solid FI.Conclusions and InferencesFive variables independently explained FIQOL: overall frequency of FI, frequency of liquid and gas leakage, urgency, and somatization.
Sublingual dermoid cyst: Case report and a review of the clinical, radiological and histological aspects of this rare condition
Authors: Lee M.H.A. , Lee C.S. , Sim C.Q.X. , Nagadia R. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractDermoid cyst of the floor of the mouth is a rare condition. It usually present as a non‐tender, slow growing swelling at the sublingual region. The clinical presentation may be similar to several other conditions. We report a case of an adolescent female who present at our institution with a sublingual swelling which was initially diagnosed as a plunging ranula. The lesion was excised together with the sublingual gland and then diagnosed histologically as a dermoid cyst. Post‐operative healing was uneventful. This report will also review the current literature on the clinical, radiological and histological aspect of the dermoid cyst to give the reader a greater understanding of this rare condition.
CXCL‐10 and Interleukin‐6 are reliable serum markers for vitiligo activity: A multicenter cross‐sectional study
Authors: Abdallah Marwa , El‐Mofty Medhat , Anbar Tag , Rasheed Hoda , Esmat Samia , Al‐Tawdy Amira , Fawzy Marwa M. , Abdel‐Halim Dalia , Hegazy Rehab , Gawdat Heba , Bassiouny Dalia , Ibrahim Mona A. , Sany Iman , El‐Bassiouny Mahy , Khalil Mohamed , Abdel‐Aziz Abeer , El Maadawi Zeinab M. , Mostafa Wedad Z. ,   Egyptian Vitiligo Group
Published: November 2017

SummaryThis cross‐sectional multicenter study aimed to evaluate serum CXCL‐10, as an activity marker for vitiligo, and compare it with other putative serum and tissue markers. Serum CXCL‐10 was compared to interferon gamma (IFN‐γ), interleukin 6 (IL‐6), and IL‐17 using ELISA in 55 non‐segmental vitiligo patients (30 active and 25 stable) and 30 healthy controls. Marginal skin biopsy was taken for immunohistochemical evaluation of CD8+T cells and CXCL‐10+ve cells. Serum levels of CXCL‐10, IL‐17, and IL‐6 were elevated in all vitiligo patients compared to controls (p < .05). All investigated serum markers were higher in active versus stable vitiligo. Tissue expression of CXCL‐10+ve cells and CD8+ve T cells was stronger in vitiligo patients compared to controls, and tissue CXCL‐10+ve cell expression was stronger in active versus stable cases. Positive correlations were noted between the different serum and tissue markers. CXCL‐10 was the most specific, whereas IL‐6 was the most sensitive serum marker to distinguish active from stable disease.
Cumulative incidence of Kawasaki disease in Japan
Authors: Nakamura Yosikazu , Yashiro Mayumi , Yamashita Maho , Aoyama Namiko , Otaki Ushio , Ozeki Yukie , Sano Takashi , Kojo Takao , Ae Ryusuke , Aoyama Yasuko , Makino Nobuko , Kotani Kazuhiko 
Published: November 2017

AbstractBackgroundAlthough the incidence rates of Kawasaki disease (KD) in Japan have been determined in nationwide surveys, the cumulative incidence, that is, the proportion of those with a history of KD in the general population of 10‐year‐olds, is currently unknown. The aim of this study was therefore to assess the cumulative incidence of KD in Japan.MethodsUsing the age‐ and sex‐specific incidence rate of KD in Japan from the results of the nationwide surveys, incidence probabilities, that is, the age‐specific number of KD patients divided by the population used in the vital statistics, and cumulative proportions of those not affected by KD up to the end of 9 years of age, were calculated. The cumulative incidence was then defined as 1 minus the cumulative proportion. The observed age classes were 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5–9 years. All data were calculated by sex.ResultsThe cumulative incidence was 0.004833 for boys and 0.003474 for girls in 1991, but was 0.015284 and 0.012145 in 2014, respectively. According to these figures, 15.284 per 1,000 boys and 12.145 per 1,000 girls have been affected by KD by the age of 10 years. The birth‐cohort cumulative incidences had similar trends.ConclusionsMore than 10 persons in 1,000 have a history of KD at age 10 years in Japan.
Implicit ambivalence of significant others: Significant others trigger positive and negative evaluations
Authors: Zayas Vivian , Surenkok Gizem , Pandey Gayathri 
Published: November 2017

AbstractDespite the rich literature on implicit partner evaluations, there has been scant attention to a defining feature of significant other mental representations—their affective complexity. Recent findings (Zayas & Shoda, 2015), however, provide an empirical demonstration that significant others automatically and simultaneously activate positive and negative evaluations—a phenomenon we refer to as implicit ambivalence. A primary aim of this paper is to extend extant theory by elaborating on the features of the dyadic context that may contribute to the formation of implicit ambivalence. Particularly, drawing from research from relationship science, social cognition, and social neuroscience, we focus on the ability of significant others to dynamically and simultaneously confer rewards and threats, the attunement of perceivers to potential social rewards and social threats, and aspects of sense‐making of another person's mind that may give rise to implicit ambivalence. From this new perspective, implicit ambivalence is not a pathological or rare state. Quite the opposite, implicit ambivalence may be a normative, typical process, that is triggered even by people who are highly positive in one's network. We identify future directions for social cognition and relationship science.
Effects of manipulations to detect sliding hiatal hernia in dogs with brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome
Authors: Broux Olivier , Clercx Cécile , Etienne Anne‐Laure , Busoni Valeria , Claeys Stéphanie , Hamaide Annick , Billen Frédéric 
Published: November 2017

AbstractObjectiveTo determine the influence of manipulations aimed at increasing the transdiaphragmatic pressure gradient on the gastro‐esophageal junction (GEJ) of dogs with brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome (BAOS), and to identify the manipulation that most improves the detection of GEJ abnormalities and sliding hiatal hernia (SHH) in dogs with BAOS.Study designIn vivo experimental pilot study and prospective clinical study.AnimalsFive purpose‐bred Beagles and 20 dogs diagnosed with BAOS.MethodsRespiratory and digestive clinical signs as well as respiratory and GEJ abnormalities were scored. The presence of SHH was investigated using radiography and endoscopy in standard conditions. Endoscopic investigation was repeated after manipulations including manual pressure on the cranial abdomen (MP), Trendelenburg position (30°), or temporary complete endotracheal tube obstruction (ETO).ResultsNo SHH was detected in any normal dog under any condition. Sixty‐five percent of dogs with BAOS presented with digestive clinical signs, including vomiting and/or regurgitation. SHH was observed in only one dog via radiography and was not detected via endoscopy. Manipulations during endoscopy influenced GEJ abnormalities and allowed the detection of SHH in 2 (30°), 4 (ETO), and 5 (MP) dogs, respectively. Digestive clinical signs correlated with GEJ abnormalities observed only in dogs with ETO (P = .02).ConclusionManipulations aimed at increasing the transdiaphragmatic pressure gradient during endoscopy in BAOS dogs allowed the detection of GEJ abnormalities and SHH that were not detected under standard conditions. Although MP allowed detection of SHH in more dogs than ETO, scores under MP did not correlate with digestive clinical signs. Therefore, ETO may be more accurate manipulation for the detection of GEJ abnormalities in BAOS dogs.