bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transcranial static magnetic field stimulation (tSMS) of the visual cortex decreases experimental photophobia
Authors: Lozano-Soto Elena , Soto-León Vanesa , Sabbarese Simona , Ruiz-Alvarez Lara , Sanchez-del-Rio Margarita , Aguilar Juan , Strange Bryan A , Foffani Guglielmo , Oliviero Antonio 
Published: October 2017

Background Transcranial static magnetic field stimulation (tSMS) reduces cortical excitability in humans. Methods The objective of this study was to determine whether tSMS over the occipital cortex is effective in reducing experimental photophobia. In a sham-controlled double-blind crossover study, tSMS (or sham) was applied for 10 minutes with a cylindrical magnet on the occiput of 20 healthy subjects. We assessed subjective discomfort induced by low-intensity and high-intensity visual stimuli presented in a dark room before, during and after tSMS (or sham). Results Compared to sham, tSMS significantly reduced the discomfort induced by high-intensity light stimuli. Conclusions The visual cortex may contribute to visual discomfort in experimental photophobia, providing a rationale for investigating tSMS as a possible treatment for photophobia in migraine.
Optimizing patient education of oncology medications: A descriptive survey of pharmacist-provided patient education in Canada
Authors: Donald Gillian , Scott Samantha , Broadfield Larry , Harding Claudia , Meade Andrea 
Published: October 2017

Background The incidence of cancer is increasing in Canada due to an aging and growing population. This frequently necessitates chemotherapy, which is a high-risk treatment, often given as a part of a complex regimen with serious side effects. A review of the evidence of pharmacy-provided patient education initiatives targeted to oncology patients revealed that minimal is known about this service. Objective The objective of this study was to determine the different models of patient education of oncology medications delivered by pharmacists to adult oncology patients in a hospital or cancer center in Canada. Methods The study design was a descriptive online survey developed by the investigation team and was distributed to pharmacists who provided patient education to adult oncology patients. The primary outcome of this research project was to describe self-reported pharmacist-provided patient education of oncology medications across Canada. The survey data was analyzed quantitatively with Opinio survey software. Results Sixty-four pharmacists completed the survey. Key findings of the study were that approximately 50% of pharmacists spend up to 25% of their time providing direct patient care and that not all adult oncology patients are receiving education by a pharmacist. Conclusions Pharmacists provide patient education at the first treatment, change in therapy, and on request of another healthcare professional. Most cover administration, side effects, their prevention and management, and drug-interactions. Frequently used teaching methods include structured patient education delivery process, customized teaching for each patient, and repetition of key educational points.
Retrospective chart evaluation of hypercalcemia management in oncology patients at the University of Chicago Medical Center
Authors: Plach Kelly , Knoebel Randall W. , Nanda Rita , Shea Katherine 
Published: October 2017

Introduction Due to the lack of formal guideline recommendations, available primary literature was used to develop a proposed protocol for management of hypercalcemia of malignancy at the University of Chicago Medical Center. Methods A retrospective, single center, observational study was performed including adult patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of hypercalcemia and active malignancy. Patients were retrospectively identified as treated in a manner aligned with the proposed protocol (“per protocol”) or not treated according to the proposed protocol (“off protocol”), and the outcomes were compared. The primary outcome for efficacy was normalization of corrected calcium within four and seven days of treatment. Results Normalization of corrected calcium was observed in 66% of patients managed per protocol compared to 65% of patients managed off protocol ( p = 1.00) at day four, and in 73% of per protocol patients compared to 65% of off protocol patients ( p = 0.44) at day seven. Areas identified where prospective implementation of the proposed protocol can improve management include: decreasing utilization of bisphosphonates in mild hypercalcemia, optimizing bisphosphonate dosing in renal impairment, decreasing intravenous phosphate repletion, and ensuring proper fluid management and calcitonin dosing. Conclusion Although a statistical difference was not detected in terms of normalization of corrected calcium levels, areas for optimization in management were identified. Therefore, implementation of the proposed protocol is expected to promote evidence-based management of hypercalcemia of malignancy management at University of Chicago Medical Center.
Palmaris longus tendocutaneous arterialized venous free flap to reconstruct the interphalangeal collateral ligament in composite defects
Authors: Woo Sang Hyun , Lee Young Keun , Kim Joo Yong , Kim Young Woo , Cheon Ho June 
Published: October 2017

We present 12 cases in which palmaris longus tendocutaneous arterialized venous free flaps were used for the reconstruction of the collateral ligament in compound defects of digits. There were nine cases involving the interphalangeal joint of the fingers and three of the interphalangeal joints of the thumb. The venous flaps survived completely in 10 of the 12 cases. In 11 cases, there were excellent functional results for joint stability, pain, total active motion and pinch power. In all 12 cases, a pain-free joint with excellent stability was achieved after surgery. The palmaris longus tendocutaneous arterialized venous free flap is a good option for reconstruction of composite defects of the collateral ligament of the interphalangeal joint. Level of evidence: IV
Peripheral deiodinase activity: A potential explanation for the association between maternal weight and gestational hyperglycemia
Authors: Haddow James E , Lambert-Messerlian Geralyn , Eklund Elizabeth , Neveux Louis M , Palomaki Glenn E 
Published: October 2017

Background High maternal weight is known to associate with both low free thyroxine and gestational diabetes mellitus. We explore a deiodinase-related mechanism that may help explain these associations. Methods Among 108 women receiving routine oral glucose tolerance testing for gestational diabetes mellitus, we collected biophysical data and measured free thyroxine and total triiodothyronine, using residual plasma samples. Results Fasting triiodothyronine/free thyroxine ratio and triiodothyronine were higher among women with gestational diabetes mellitus ( p = 0.02; p = 0.04). The triiodothyronine/free thyroxine ratio and triiodothyronine measurements at 2 h were associated with weight ( r = 0.20, p = 0.04; r = 0.22, p = 0.02); free thyroxine showed a non-significant inverse weight relationship ( r = −0.06, p = 0.55). Glucose at all four intervals was associated with triiodothyronine/free thyroxine ratios, and triiodothyronine at 2 h. In stepwise regression, triiodothyronine/free thyroxine ratio predicted glucose more strongly than did weight. Conclusion These relationships may be explained by higher maternal weight inducing peripheral deiodinase activity, resulting in higher plasma glucose (via triiodothyronine stimulation) and thereby increasing gestational diabetes mellitus risk.
Successful discontinuation of immunoglobulin G replacement at age 10 in a patient with immunoglobulin G2 deficiency
Authors: Shinjoh Masayoshi , Sakiyama Yukio , Sekiguchi Shinichiro , Takahashi Takao 
Published: October 2017

Context: Immunoglobulin G2 deficiency that persists beyond the age of 6 years is likely to be permanent. Case report: We report on a young Japanese female, diagnosed as having immunoglobulin G2 deficiency and low anti-pneumococcal immunoglobulin G2 antibody levels when 3 years old, with a subsequent medical history of frequent respiratory infections and asthma. Monthly intravenous immunoglobulin replacement therapy was started at 4 years of age. After 8 years of age, an anti-pneumococcal immunoglobulin G2 trough level could be maintained with administration intervals longer than 6 weeks, and after 9 years and 10 months of age, therapy was discontinued. The frequency of hospital admissions was reduced by the introduction of the replacement therapy (from 8.4 times/year before the introduction to 1.1 times/year during the therapy). The patient was also able to discontinue daily medications for asthma, and serum immunoglobulin G2 was maintained at a normal level even after the cessation of replacement therapy. Conclusion: Termination of immunoglobulin replacement therapy in a patient with a symptomatic immunoglobulin G2 deficiency is possible, even for a child older than 6 years.
The Better Angels of Their Natures? The Declining Rate of Homicides against India’s Dalits
Authors: Mayer Peter 
Published: October 2017

There is a common perception—made the more acute by the growing focus on rapes since the horrific gang rape incident in Delhi in 2012—that India is an increasingly violent society. One can even see aspects of this perspective in official documents. Crime in India, 2009 for example observed that ‘The quantum of total violent crimes [increased] continuously … from 2005 to 2009’. This article focuses on serious, violent crimes against India’s Dalits (Scheduled Castes), especially homicides, as they appear in official statistics. It suggests that contrary to popular understanding, murder, rape and arson directed against Dalits have declined significantly since a peak in the early 1990s. The article argues that, in part, the declines are due to the social mobilization of Dalits, the emergence of lower caste and Dalit political parties in north India and specific aspects of political competition. But another, broader and important influence, perhaps related to what Steven Pinker has called ‘the better angels of our nature’, is an unnoticed but significant decline in overall rates of interpersonal violence in India.
NO donors exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by modulating inflammatory signatures and by regulating the life cycle of dendritic cells
Authors: Ripamonti Chiara , Papagna Angela , Storini Claudio , Miglietta Daniela , Foti Maria 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
NO mediates a variety of physiologic processes and is considered an important intracellular messenger in different cellular systems. Because of its complex regulation and multiple molecular and cellular targets, NO provides both stimulatory and suppressive properties in the immune system. Dendritic cells (DCs) are considered the most potent APCs, whose regulation has important implications in the induction of an effective immune response. In this study, we analyzed the effect of the compound NCX 2057, a new class of NO-releasing derivatives of ferulic acid, on activation and functional properties of DCs. NCX 2057 was able to modulate the inflammatory program, the cytokines production, and the cellular life cycle but not the maturation markers and the T cells stimulatory capacity of DCs in the presence or absence of LPS. The results indicate that NCX 2057 may modulate different aspects of the activation of DCs and suggest novel applications of NO donors in the contest of inflammatory response modulation through the life cycle regulation of DCs.
Health dialogue as a tool for health promotion on individual, group and organisational levels
Authors: Olander Åsa , Koinberg Ingalill 
Published: October 2017

Background: School health service in Sweden has transformed into medical expertise of pupils’ health to emphasise that there are other professions in school who work with health. To promote health and prevent illness, health dialogues is used by school nurses. Aim: To explore school nurse’s perception of health dialogues with pupils as well as the use of it as an instrument to promote health and prevent illness on different levels. Method: A questionnaire was constructed, it consisted of multiple choice questions that were evaluated by frequency analysis and open-ended questions, which were categorised. Result: Progression of using aggregated data was identified. Major knowledge of making health dialogues an opportunity for promoting health and preventing illness was confirmed. Conclusions: Aggregated data was presented to pupil health teams in a higher degree than before and activities were taken to support health on different levels.
What Are Women Told When Requesting Family Planning Services at Clinics Associated with Catholic Hospitals? A Mystery Caller Study
Authors: Guiahi Maryam , Teal Stephanie B. , Swartz Maryke , Huynh Sandy , Schiller Georgia , Sheeder Jeanelle 
Published: October 2017

CONTEXTCatholic Church directives restrict family planning service provision at Catholic health care institutions. It is unclear whether obstetrics and gynecology clinics that are owned by or have business affiliations with Catholic hospitals offer family planning appointments.METHODSMystery callers phoned 144 clinics nationwide that were found on Catholic hospital websites between December 2014 and February 2016, and requested appointments for birth control generally, copper IUD services specifically, tubal ligation and abortion. Chi‐square and Fisher's exact tests assessed potential correlates of appointment availability, and multivariable logistic regressions were computed if bivariate testing suggested multiple correlates.RESULTSAlthough 95% of clinics would schedule birth control appointments, smaller proportions would schedule appointments for copper IUDs (68%) or tubal ligation (58%); only 2% would schedule an abortion. Smaller proportions of Catholic‐owned than of Catholic‐affiliated clinics would schedule appointments for birth control (84% vs. 100%), copper IUDs (4% vs. 97%) and tubal ligation (29% vs. 72%); for birth control and copper IUD services, no other clinic characteristics were related to appointment availability. Multivariable analysis confirmed that tubal ligation appointments were less likely to be offered at Catholic‐owned than at Catholic‐affiliated clinics (odds ratio. 0.1); location and association with one of the top 10 Catholic health care systems also were significant.CONCLUSIONSAdherence to church directives is inconsistent at Catholic‐associated clinics. Women visiting such clinics who want highly effective methods may need to rely on less effective methods or delay method uptake while seeking services elsewhere.
Carbonate Minerals with Magnesium in Triassic Terebratula Limestone in the Term of Limestone with Magnesium Application as a Sorbent in Desulfurization of Flue Gases
Authors: Stanienda-Pilecki Katarzyna 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThis article presents the results of studies of Triassic (Muschelkalk) carbonate rock samples of the Terebratula Beds taken from the area of the Polish part of the Germanic Basin. It is the area of Opole Silesia. The rocks were studied in the term of possibility of limestone with magnesium application in desulfurization of flue gases executed in power plants. Characteristic features of especially carbonate phases including magnesium-low-Mg calcite, high-Mg calcite, dolomite and huntite were presented in the article. They were studied to show that the presence of carbonate phases with magnesium, especially high-Mg calcite makes the desulfurization process more effective. Selected rock samples were examined using a microscope with polarized, transmitted light, X-ray diffraction, microprobe measurements and FTIR spectroscopy. The results of studies show a domination of low magnesium calcite in the limestones of the Terebratula Beds. In some samples dolomite and lower amounts of high-Mg calcite occurred. Moreover, huntite was identified. The studies were very important, because carbonate phases like high-Mg calcite and huntite which occurred in rocks of the Triassic Terebratula Beds were not investigated in details by other scientists but they presence in limestone sorbent could influence the effectiveness of desulfurization process.
The Impact of Variability of Selected Geological and Mining Parameters on the Value and Risks of Projects in the Hard Coal Mining Industry
Authors: Kopacz Michał 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThe paper attempts to assess the impact of variability of selected geological (deposit) parameters on the value and risks of projects in the hard coal mining industry. The study was based on simulated discounted cash flow analysis, while the results were verified for three existing bituminous coal seams.The Monte Carlo simulation was based on nonparametric bootstrap method, while correlations between individual deposit parameters were replicated with use of an empirical copula. The calculations take into account the uncertainty towards the parameters of empirical distributions of the deposit variables. The Net Present Value (NPV) and the Internal Rate of Return (IRR) were selected as the main measures of value and risk, respectively.The impact of volatility and correlation of deposit parameters were analyzed in two aspects, by identifying the overall effect of the correlated variability of the parameters and the indywidual impact of the correlation on the NPV and IRR. For this purpose, a differential approach, allowing determining the value of the possible errors in calculation of these measures in numerical terms, has been used.Based on the study it can be concluded that the mean value of the overall effect of the variability does not exceed 11.8% of NPV and 2.4 percentage points of IRR. Neglecting the correlations results in overestimating the NPV and the IRR by up to 4.4%, and 0.4 percentage point respectively. It should be noted, however, that the differences in NPV and IRR values can vary significantly, while their interpretation depends on the likelihood of implementation.Generalizing the obtained results, based on the average values, the maximum value of the risk premium in the given calculation conditions of the „X“ deposit, and the correspondingly large datasets (greater than 2500), should not be higher than 2.4 percentage points. The impact of the analyzed geological parameters on the NPV and IRR depends primarily on their co-existence, which can be measured by the strength of correlation. In the analyzed case, the correlations result in limiting the range of variation of the geological parameters and economics results (the empirical copula reduces the NPV and IRR in probabilistic approach). However, this is due to the adjustment of the calculation under conditions similar to those prevailing in the deposit.
Determinants of Interest Rates on Corporate Bonds of Mining Enterprises
Authors: Ranosz Robert 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThis article is devoted to the determinants of interest rates on corporate bonds of mining enterprises. The study includes a comparison between the cost of foreign capital as resulting from the issue of debt instruments in different sectors of the economy in relation to the mining industry. The article also depicts the correlation between the rating scores published by the three largest rating agencies: S&P, Moody's, and Fitch. The test was based on simple statistical methods. The analysis performed indicated that there is a dependency between the factors listed and the amount of interest rates on corporate bonds of global mining enterprises. Most significant factors include the rating level and the period for which the given series of bonds was issued. Additionally, it is not without significance whether the given bond has additional options. Pursuant to the obtained results, is should be recognized that in order to reduce the interest rate on bonds, mining enterprises should pay particular attention to the rating and attempt to include additional options in issued bonds. Such additional options may comprise, for example, an ability to exchange bonds to shares or raw materials.
Production of high-lysine-content biscuit and examination of the absorption of lysine in humans
Authors: Prokisch J. , Csiki Z. , Albert Cs. , Csapó J. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractIn the Medical and Health Centre of the University of Debrecen, we examined the changes in the free amino acid content of the blood serum of control and experimental individuals after consumption of 2,000 mg of lysine-laden biscuits. We baked the biscuits at 130 °C, during which the greater part (70–75%) of the lysine was not converted into Maillard reaction products. After 30–60 minutes of consumption of the biscuits, the free lysine content of the blood serum increased significantly in the experimental and control group with 41–46%, and even after three hours of consumption the level was 20% higher than in the initial concentration. The free arginine content of the blood serum did not change after the consumption of control and lysine biscuits neither in the control nor in the experimental group. Therefore, the free lysine/free arginine ratio of the individuals consuming lysine increased significantly compared to the initial and the control group’s value. The antioxidant level of the blood serum in the control group remained unchanged after the consumption of the control biscuit, while in the case of the experimental individuals who consumed lysine-fortified biscuits it increased by 40–45% compared to the initial level. Summing up: After consumption of the biscuits with 2,000 mg of free lysine, the concentration of free lysine in the blood serum, its free lysine/free arginine ratio and antioxidant level increased significantly. Our researches have clearly demonstrated that the active substances of the biscuit got into the blood serum, so the investigation of the active substance and the evaluation of the physiological effects are definitely recommended in the long run.
Vegetation of Croatia: Phytosociological classification of the high-rank syntaxa
Authors: Škvorc Željko , Jasprica Nenad , Alegro Antun , Kovačić Sanja , Franjić Jozo , Krstonošić Daniel , Vraneša Ana , Čarni Andraž 
Published: October 2017

AbstractCroatia is among the most ecologically diverse and floristically rich countries in Europe, with a great variety of communities. The vegetation elaboration according to the standard central European method was initiated in Croatia at the beginning of the 20thcentury. In previous overviews of Croatian vegetation, the number of classes and alliances was underrepresented in relation to the country’s floristic richness. Furthermore, the level of knowledge and the amount of available data varied greatly among the various types of vegetation. The aims of this paper are mainly to compile a stabile syntaxonomic list of classes, orders and alliances dominated by vascular plants in Croatia and to adjust Croatian vegetation to the new European syntaxonomic system (EuroVegChecklist). It introduces a consistent description of high-rank syntaxa in Croatian. In conclusion, the vegetation of Croatia comprises 66 classes, 121 orders and 201 alliances. The number of syntaxa shows vegetation diversity that is rather high compared to most other European countries; this is related to the high floristic richness and endemism. The list points out the obvious problems and gaps in our knowledge of vegetation in Croatia and can serve as a baseline for the future vegetation studies.