bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Modified Reasons for Smoking Scale: factorial structure, validity and reliability in pregnant smokers
Authors: De Wilde Katrien Sophie , Tency Inge , Boudrez Hedwig , Temmerman Marleen , Maes Lea , Clays Els 
Published: January 2016

AbstractRationale, aims and objectivesSmoking during pregnancy can cause several maternal and neonatal health risks, yet a considerable number of pregnant women continue to smoke. The objectives of this study were to test the factorial structure, validity and reliability of the Dutch version of the Modified Reasons for Smoking Scale (MRSS) in a sample of smoking pregnant women and to understand reasons for continued smoking during pregnancy.MethodsA longitudinal design was performed. Data of 97 pregnant smokers were collected during prenatal consultation. Structural equation modelling was performed to assess the construct validity of the MRSS: an exploratory factor analysis was conducted, followed by a confirmatory factor analysis.Test–retest reliability (<16 weeks and 32–34 weeks pregnancy) and internal consistency were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient and the Cronbach's alpha, respectively. To verify concurrent validity, Mann–Whitney U‐tests were performed examining associations between the MRSS subscales and nicotine dependence, daily consumption, depressive symptoms and intention to quit.ResultsWe found a factorial structure for the MRSS of 11 items within five subscales in order of importance: tension reduction, addiction, pleasure, habit and social function. Results for internal consistency and test–retest reliability were good to acceptable. There were significant associations of nicotine dependence with tension reduction and addiction and of daily consumption with addiction and habit.ConclusionsValidity and reliability of the MRSS were shown in a sample of pregnant smokers. Tension reduction was the most important reason for continued smoking, followed by pleasure and addiction. Although the score for nicotine dependence was low, addiction was an important reason for continued smoking during pregnancy; therefore, nicotine replacement therapy could be considered. Half of the respondents experienced depressive symptoms. Hence, it is important to identify those women who need more specialized care, which can include not only smoking cessation counselling but also treatment for depression.
Consequence of hyperhomocysteinaemia on α1-adrenoceptor-mediated contraction in the rat corpus cavernosum: the role of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Côco Hariane , Pernomian Larissa , Marchi Katia C , Gomes Mayara S , de Andrade Cláudia R , Ramalho Leandra N Z , Tirapelli Carlos R , de Oliveira Ana M 
Published: January 2016

Abstract

Objectives
Our main objective was to investigate the mechanisms underlying the effects of hyperhomocysteinaemia (HHcy) on contractile response mediated by α1-adrenoceptors in the rat corpus cavernosum.

Methods
Concentration-response curves for phenylephrine (PE) were obtained in strips of corpus cavernosum, in absence or after incubation with tiron, tempol or polyethylene glycol (PEG)-catalase combined or not with tempol. We also measured the superoxide anion (O2−) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) generation, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activity and α-actin expression in rat corpus cavernosum from both groups.

Key findings
HHcy increased PE-induced contraction in cavernosal strips. Tiron, PEG-catalase or tempol increased PE-induced contraction in strips from control rats, but it was not altered by tiron or PEG-catalase in HHcy rats, whereas tempol reduced this response. The combination of PEG-catalase and tempol did not alter the contractile response to PE in both groups. HHcy increased O2− generation and SOD activity, whereas H2O2 concentration was reduced. Finally, HHcy did not alter catalase activity or expression of α-actin.

Conclusions
The major new finding from this study is that HHcy induced a marked increase in PE-induced contraction in rat corpus cavernosum by a mechanism that involves increased O2− generation and it could play a role in the pathogenesis of erectile dysfunction associated with HHcy.
In vivo wound healing activity of gels containing Cecropia pachystachya leaves
Authors: Duque Ana Paula do Nascimento , Pinto Nícolas de Castro Campos , Mendes Renata de Freitas , da Silva Josiane Mello , Aragão Danielle Maria de Oliveira , Castañon Maria Christina Marques Nogueira , Scio Elita 
Published: January 2016

Abstract

Objectives
To evaluate the in-vivo wound healing and in-vitro antioxidant activity of gels containing the ethyl acetate extract of Cecropia pachystachya (ECP) 2% and 5%, and to perform the chemical fingerprint of ECP by HPLC-DAD.

Methods
The wound healing activity of the gels was evaluated for 21 days, using the excision model in rats followed by histopathological and histomorphometric analysis. The in-vitro antioxidant effect of ECP was investigated using 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, reducing power, β-carotene bleaching and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assays. Also, a HPLC analysis was performed to identify the chemical markers orientin, iso-orientin and chlorogenic acid.

Key findings
The group of animals treated with ECP 5% presented oedema and inflammatory infiltrate with less intensity than the other groups. Both ECP 2% and 5% gels showed less neovascularization and cellularity, and better tissue repair when compared to the control, which showed a younger and homogeneous tissue.

Conclusions
This study had demonstrated that the ECP gels promoted the acceleration of the healing process when compared to the control group. Wound contraction, angiogenesis, epithelialization and the collagen deposition support further evaluation of C. pachystachya leaves in the topical treatment and management of skin wounds.
Pharmacokinetics of centhaquin citrate in a rat model
Authors: O'Donnell J Nicholas , Gulati Anil , Lavhale Manish S , Sharma Shyam S , Patel Arjun J , Rhodes Nathaniel J , Scheetz Marc H 
Published: January 2016

Abstract

Objective
Centhaquin citrate is a novel agent being developed for use in the treatment of haemorrhagic shock. It has decreased mortality in rat, rabbit and pig models of hypovolaemic shock compared to hypertonic saline and lactated Ringer's resuscitation. The pharmacokinetics of centhaquin citrate have not been described to date.

Methods
Sixteen male Sprague Dawley rats were given an intravenous bolus of 0.45 mg/kg centhaquin citrate. Rats were divided into two groups; plasma concentrations were measured at five time points for each group within 24 h after administration. Competing compartmental pharmacokinetic models were assessed. The nonparametric adaptive grid function within the Pmetrics package for R was used for parameter estimation. Predicted concentrations were calculated using population median and individual Bayesian posterior parameters.

Key Findings
A two-compartment model of centhaquin citrate best fit the data. Median (IQR) values for elimination coefficient (Ke), volume of distribution (V) and intercompartmental transfer rates (Kcp, Kpc) were 8.8 (5.2–12.8) h−1, 6.4 (2.8–10.4) l, 11.9 (4.6–15.0) h−1 and 3.7 (2.3–9.1) h−1, respectively.

Conclusion
This is the first report of the pharmacokinetic parameters of centhaquin citrate in a rat model. Centhaquin citrate was found to have a short half-life with a large volume of distribution.
Flubendazole induces mitotic catastrophe and senescence in colon cancer cells in vitro
Authors: Králová Věra , Hanušová Veronika , Rudolf Emil , Čáňová Kristýna , Skálová Lenka 
Published: January 2016

Abstract

Objectives
Flubendazole (FLU), a member of benzimidazole family of anthelmintic drugs, is able to inhibit proliferation of various cancer cells. The aim of present study was to elucidate the mechanisms of antiproliferative effect of FLU on colorectal cancer cells in vitro.

Methods
The effect of FLU on proliferation, microtubular network, DNA content, caspase activation and senescence induction was studied in SW480 and SW620 cell lines.

Key findings
Flubendazole significantly affected cell proliferation in a pattern typical for mitotic inhibitor. This was accompanied by decrease in cyclin D1 levels, increase in cyclin B1 levels, activation of caspase 2 and caspase 3/7 and PARP cleavage. Morphological observations revealed disruption of microtubular network, irregular mitotic spindles, formation of giant multinucleated cells and increase in nuclear area and DNA content. In SW620 cell line, 37.5% giant multinucleated cells induced by FLU treatment showed positivity for SA-β-galactosidase staining. Cell lines were able to recover from the treatment and this process was faster in SW480 cells.

Conclusion
Flubendazole in low concentration temporarily inhibits cell proliferation and induces mitotic catastrophe and premature senescence in human colon cancer cells in vitro.
Health technology assessment in low- and middle-income countries: a landscape assessment
Authors: Babigumira Joseph B , Jenny Alisa M , Bartlein Rebecca , Stergachis Andy , Garrison Louis P 
Published: January 2016

Abstract

Objectives
Health technology assessment (HTA) for a wide range of healthcare technologies is an essential component of well-functioning health systems. Knowledge of the use of HTA in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is limited.

Methods
We performed a survey of HTA in selected LMICs. We interviewed key stakeholders on the use, conduct and challenges of performing HTA in their countries. We performed mixed-methods analyses to identify, characterize and describe HTA and how it relates to gross domestic product and government effectiveness.

Key findings
Of the 19 countries selected for participation, stakeholders in 12 (63%) countries responded to the survey – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, Jordan, Kenya, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Swaziland and Vietnam. Eight countries surveyed have some form of informal HTA activity conducted by stakeholders including academia, industry, government and the World Health Organization. There is evidence of knowledge sharing with five countries using HTAs from their neighbouring countries or from more developed countries. We found no evidence of formal HTA performed through dedicated, independent bodies in the LMICs surveyed. There was some evidence that HTA was moderately related to GDP per capita and strongly related to degree of centralization (government effectiveness). Respondents identified resources, both financial and human, as challenges to conducting HTA.

Conclusions
Formal HTA appears to be non-existent or limited in the LMICs surveyed but some evidence of informal HTA exists. Efforts to formalize HTA and to use existing HTA evidence will improve the quality of regulatory, coverage, formulary and reimbursement decisions, and individual and public health.
Soil stabilization linked to plant diversity and environmental context in coastal wetlands
Authors: Ford Hilary , Garbutt Angus , Ladd Cai , Malarkey Jonathan , Skov Martin W. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractBackgroundPlants play a pivotal role in soil stabilization, with above‐ground vegetation and roots combining to physically protect soil against erosion. It is possible that diverse plant communities boost root biomass, with knock‐on positive effects for soil stability, but these relationships are yet to be disentangled.QuestionWe hypothesize that soil erosion rates fall with increased plant species richness, and test explicitly how closely root biomass is associated with plant diversity.MethodsWe tested this hypothesis in salt marsh grasslands, dynamic ecosystems with a key role in flood protection. Using step‐wise regression, the influences of biotic (e.g. plant diversity) and abiotic variables on root biomass and soil stability were determined for salt marshes with two contrasting soil types: erosion‐resistant clay (Essex, southeast UK) and erosion‐prone sand (Morecambe Bay, northwest UK). A total of 132 (30‐cm depth) cores of natural marsh were extracted and exposed to lateral erosion by water in a re‐circulating flume.ResultsSoil erosion rates fell with increased plant species richness (R2 = 0.55), when richness was modelled as a single explanatory variable, but was more important in erosion‐prone (R2 = 0.44) than erosion‐resistant (R2 = 0.18) regions. As plant species richness increased from two to nine species·m−2, the coefficient of variation in soil erosion rate decreased significantly (R2 = 0.92). Plant species richness was a significant predictor of root biomass (R2 = 0.22). Step‐wise regression showed that five key variables accounted for 80% of variation in soil erosion rate across regions. Clay‐silt fraction and soil carbon stock were linked to lower rates, contributing 24% and 31%, respectively, to variation in erosion rate. In regional analysis, abiotic factors declined in importance, with root biomass explaining 25% of variation. Plant diversity explained 12% of variation in the erosion‐prone sandy region.ConclusionOur study indicates that soil stabilization and root biomass are positively associated with plant diversity. Diversity effects are more pronounced in biogeographical contexts where soils are erosion‐prone (sandy, low organic content), suggesting that the pervasive influence of biodiversity on environmental processes also applies to the ecosystem service of erosion protection.
A common lack of demographic equilibrium among tree species in Białowieża National Park (NE Poland): evidence from long‐term plots
Authors: Brzeziecki Bogdan , Pommerening Arne , Miścicki Stanisław , Drozdowski Stanisław , Żybura Henryk 
Published: January 2016

AbstractQuestionsDoes the size structure characterizing particular tree species in natural forest stands converge towards a steady state? What is the main reason for departures of observed tree size distributions from equilibrium models? What is the consequence of long‐term strict protection for the demography of tree species and the conservation of associated biota?LocationStands of natural forest in Białowieża National Park (NE Poland) that have been under strict protection for about 90 yr.MethodsData on recruitment, growth and mortality of approximately 10 000 trees representing 11 species (aspen, birch, alder, pine, oak, maple, ash, elm, spruce, lime and hornbeam), from seven replicated surveys of five permanent monitoring plots (total size = 15.44 ha), established in 1936, were used to derive theoretical, species‐specific equilibrium distributions as a basis for evaluating the demographic changes of the species involved.ResultsOver a monitoring period of 76 yr, there were strong downward trends in the population densities of several tree species of different successional status and light requirements. A vast majority of the conspecific equilibrium curves, modelled on the basis of growth and mortality data, revealed a ‘rotated sigmoid’ shape when plotted in semi‐log plots. In contrast to these equilibrium curves, the observed tree size distributions of most species were unimodal, at both the beginning and the end of the study period. Departures between theoretical and observed distributions increased over time, particularly for shade‐intolerant and intermediate species.ConclusionsThe populations of several tree species occurring in the Białowieża National Park are demographically unstable – a fact reflected in large and steadily increasing differences between theoretical and actual tree size distributions. The main reason for this are the insufficient recruitment rates typical of most species. Some tree species may very soon disappear almost entirely, and this will certainly lead to far‐reaching changes in the functioning of local forest communities. Among other consequences, the current demographic trends, as observed for Białowieża tree species, are very likely to have a strong effect on the long‐term survival of numerous forest organisms (such as insects, fungi, lichens, etc.), which depend, directly or indirectly, on the presence and balanced demography of particular tree species.
HBV: Do I treat my immunotolerant patients?
Authors: Vlachogiannakos Jiannis , Papatheodoridis George V. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractImmunotolerant patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection are characterized by positive HBeAg, high viral replication, persistently normal ALT and no or minimal liver damage. Since the risk of the progression of liver disease and the chance of a sustained response with existing anti‐HBV agents are low, current guidelines do not recommend treatment but close monitoring with serial alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and HBV DNA measurements instead. However, not treating all these patients is a concern because advanced histological lesions have been reported in certain cases who are usually older (>30–40 years old), and continued high HBV replication could increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, the optimal management of immunotolerant patients is often individualised according to age, which is associated with histological severity and patient outcome. In particular, immunotolerant patients <30 years old can be monitored for ALT and HBV DNA, while treatment is often recommended in the few patients over 40. A liver biopsy and/or non‐invasive assessment of fibrosis may be helpful to determine the therapeutic strategy in patients between 30 and 40 years old. Moreover, there are three specific subgroups of immunotolerant patients who often require treatment with oral anti‐HBV agents: patients who will receive immunosuppressive treatment or chemotherapy, women with serum HBV DNA >106–7 IU/ml during the last trimester of pregnancy and certain healthcare professionals with high viraemia levels. More studies are needed to further clarify the natural history for the optimal timing of treatment in this setting.
Clinical relevance of the study of hepatitis B virus covalently closed circular DNA
Authors: Kumar Rajneesh , Pérez‐del‐Pulgar Sofía , Testoni Barbara , Lebossé Fanny , Zoulim Fabien 
Published: January 2016

AbstractHepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a public health concern with 240 million people affected worldwide. HBV is an hepadnavirus that replicates its genome in hepatocytes. One of the key steps of the viral life cycle is the formation of cccDNA – covalently closed circular DNA – in the nucleus, the equivalent of a viral mini‐chromosome that acts as a template for subsequent virus replication. Current antiviral medications are not effective in eradicating cccDNA, which can persist in the infected liver even in the absence of detectable HBV DNA or HBsAg in the blood. cccDNA cannot be measured in serum, and few surrogate markers have been proposed. Persistent cccDNA has been associated with various clinical events, including viral reactivation induced by immunosuppressive therapies, HBV recurrence after liver transplantation and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). cccDNA remains the main target to achieve a cure of HBV infection, thus extensive efforts are being made to develop new antiviral concepts to degrade or silence cccDNA.
The prognosis and management of inactive HBV carriers
Authors: Invernizzi Federica , Viganò Mauro , Grossi Glenda , Lampertico Pietro 
Published: January 2016

AbstractPatients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection lacking the serum hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) and with antibodies against HBeAg (anti‐HBe), are the prevalent subgroup of HBV carriers worldwide. The prognosis of these patients is different from inactive carriers (ICs), who are characterized by persistently normal serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and low (<2000 IU/ml) serum HBV DNA levels, a serological profile that may also be intermittently observed in patients with HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis. This is why a confirmed diagnosis of IC requires quarterly ALT and HBV DNA measurements for at least 1 year, while a single‐point detection of combined HBsAg <1000 IU/ml and HBV DNA <2000 IU/ml has a robust predictive value for the diagnosis of IC. Characteristically, ICs have minimal or no histological lesions of the liver corresponding to liver stiffness values on Fibroscan of <5 kPa. Antiviral treatment is not indicated in ICs since the prognosis for the progression of liver disease is favourable if there are no cofactors of liver damage such as alcohol abuse, excess weight or co‐infection with the hepatitis C virus or delta virus. Moreover, spontaneous HBsAg loss frequently occurs (1–1.9% per year) in these patients while the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is rare, at least in Caucasian patients. However, an emerging issue reinforcing the need for clinical surveillance of ICs is the risk of HBV reactivation in patients who undergo immunosuppressive therapy without receiving appropriate antiviral prophylaxis. After diagnosis, management of ICs includes monitoring of ALT and HBV DNA every 12 months with periodic measurement of serum HBsAg levels to identify viral clearance.
HCV and the kidney
Authors: Corouge Marion , Vallet‐Pichard Anaïs , Pol Stanislas 
Published: January 2016

AbstractChronic hepatitis C (CHC) is significantly associated with a risk of renal deterioration over time. Renal impairment, especially stage 4–5 chronic kidney disease, increases the risk of: (i) the prevalence and incidence (in dialysis/transplantation) of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection; (ii) liver deterioration during kidney transplantation and (iii) allograft failure and patient mortality. HCV‐infected dialysis patients have a higher mortality than non‐infected dialysis patients and than HCV‐infected kidney recipients. The harmful impact of HCV emphasizes the need for oral antiviral therapies in patients with chronic kidney disease. Symptomatic cryoglobulinemic vasculitis and extensive liver fibrosis are already approved indications for early access to oral antiviral treatment. Patients with stage 4–5 chronic kidney disease should also be given priority: dialysis patients (whatever the stage of fibrosis and whether or not they are candidates for kidney transplantation) as well as all kidney recipients. The results of treatment of HCV with direct‐acting antiviral (DAAs) drugs in patients with late chronic kidney disease are excellent, similar to those in the general population, although additional clinical trials are definitely needed, particularly to optimize adjustment of treatment to kidney function and determine the risk of drug–drug interactions.
Direct‐acting antivirals for the treatment of hepatitis C virus infection: optimizing current IFN‐free treatment and future perspectives
Authors: Asselah Tarik , Boyer Nathalie , Saadoun David , Martinot‐Peignoux Michele , Marcellin Patrick 
Published: January 2016

AbstractThere has been a revolution in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. Several oral regimens combining direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) from different families [NS5B nucleotide inhibitors, NS5B non‐nucleoside inhibitors, NS5A replication complex inhibitors and NS3/4A protease inhibitors (PI)] have been developed. These regimens result in an increase in sustained virological response (SVR) rates to above 90% and reduce the duration of treatment to 12 weeks or less. As of 2016 several regimens will be approved with additive potencies, without cross‐resistance and with a good safety profile. Remaining issues will include increasing screening and access to care so that HCV may become the first chronic viral infection eradicated worldwide. This review summarizes results obtained with oral DAA combinations that have been approved and/or have completed phase 3 clinical trials for HCV infection and discusses future perspectives.