bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Monitoring progression in Friedreich ataxia (FRDA): the use of clinical scales
Authors: Bürk Katrin , Schulz Stefanie R. , Schulz Jörg B. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractFriedreich ataxia (FRDA) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder associated with ataxia, dysarthria, pyramidal tract signs, sensory loss, cardiomyopathy and diabetes. There is no cure for FRDA so far. Studies of the natural history of the disease and future therapeutic trials require development of appropriate outcome markers. Since any therapeutic benefit is expected to modulate deterioration over time rather than to reverse disability, potential outcome measures must be sensitive instruments carefully analysed for their significance. Clinical scales may represent an appropriate measuring tool. Over the last few years the construction, evaluation and validation of sensitive clinical scales for the assessment of disease severity and progression in ataxia have had considerable impact on our understanding of the disease. Currently, there are three different scales that are most frequently applied: The International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale (ICARS), the Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale (FARS) and the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA). All scales have been validated and compared with regard to their testing properties.
Co‐enzyme Q10 and idebenone use in Friedreich's ataxia
Authors: Parkinson Michael H , Schulz Jörg B. , Giunti Paola 
Published: July 2013

AbstractFriedreich's ataxia is a debilitating progressive neurodegenerative disease associated with cardiomyopathy and other features. The underlying cause is a deficiency of the mitochondrial protein frataxin which causes mitochondrial iron deposition, increased oxidative stress and impaired adenosine triphosphate production. Over the last 15 years, multiple clinical trials have assessed the efficacy of antioxidant agents in this disease. This article reviews trials of the two most important agents, namely co‐enzyme Q10 and idebenone.
‘Stigma: the cul‐de‐sac of the double bind’ the perspective of Turkiye; a phenomenological study
Authors: Yuksel C. , Bingol F. , Oflaz F. 
Published: July 2013

Accessible summary
The aim of this study was to explore and describe the stigmatization experienced by individuals with mental health problems (IMHP) and the relationships between stigmas associated with mental health problems, psychiatric diagnoses, treatments, and social environments and their consequences.
Our findings show that almost all IMHP were concerned about being stigmatized by others, society, their family, and health care professionals. Another concern that IMHP reported was self‐stigmatization. Stigmatization serves as a barrier to treatment adherence and socialization in IMHP. Furthermore, stigmatization has a significant impact on the lives of IMHP, and methods of coping with stigmatization are commonly ineffective.
It is important for the nurses to reduce stigma by dealing with the illness, IMHP, their relatives, and professionals in an unprejudiced manner.
AbstractThe aim of this study was to explore and describe the stigmatization experienced by individuals with mental health problems (IMHP) and the relationships between stigmas associated with mental health problems, psychiatric diagnoses, treatments, and social environments and their consequences. Thirty‐three IMHP were recruited from outpatient and day clinics at the psychiatry department of a university hospital within a 5‐month time period for this qualitative, descriptive study. Data were gathered using a structured interview form with open‐ended questions to explore the changes in everyday life experienced by IMHP during the course of their illness. Data were analysed using the Colaizzi method of analysis. Our findings show that almost all IMHP were concerned about being stigmatized by others, society, their family, and health care professionals. Another concern that IMHP reported was self‐stigmatization. Stigmatization serves as a barrier to treatment adherence and socialization in IMHP. Furthermore, stigmatization has a significant impact on the lives of IMHP, and methods of coping with stigmatization are commonly ineffective. However, stigmatization can be reduced by dealing with the illness, IMHP, their relatives, and professionals in an unprejudiced manner.
Effect of dietary mannanase‐hydrolysed copra meal on growth performance and intestinal histology in broiler chickens
Authors: Ibuki M. , Fukui K. , Yamauchi K. 
Published: July 2013

SummaryWe investigated mannanase‐hydrolysed copra meal (MCM), which contains β‐1,4‐mannobiose (MNB), for its capacity to improve growth performance and activate intestinal villus function. Seven‐day‐old chicks were separated into four flocks with an equal mean body weight and then fed a basal diet (control) or a diet supplemented with 0.02% or 0.1% MCM. After 7 weeks, the feed intake and body weight were determined and then used to calculate the feed efficiency (FE). Moreover, the intestinal segments were examined by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for cellular and morphological changes in the villus. Although feed intake was not significantly different among the experimental groups, the body weight gain and FE were significantly higher in the 0.1% MCM group than in the control group (p < 0.05), while feed intake tended to be higher in the 0.02% and 0.1% MCM groups. The cellular area of the ileum was significantly higher in the 0.02% and 0.1% groups in relation to that in the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the cellular area of the duodenum and the jejunum tended to be higher in the 0.02% and 0.1% MCM groups. For the correlation analysis, a significant correlation was observed between the dosage of MCM and the cell area of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum. Moreover, the number of mitotic cells was higher in the 0.1% MCM group. As shown by SEM, the cells at the villi tips were protuberant in appearance in the 0.02% and 0.1% MCM treatments when compared with the relatively flat cells of the control. On the duodenal villus surface of the 0.1% MCM group, some cells devoid of microvilli were observed, suggesting that the increased protuberance of these cells represents increased absorption activity. Although intestinal villus height and area did not significantly differ among groups, the levels of these parameters tended to increase in the experimental groups relative to the control. The present morphological findings reveal that MNB might be effective for activating intestinal absorptive function, and that the functional activation promotes the growth of the chickens.
The pharmacokinetics of methocarbamol and guaifenesin after single intravenous and multiple‐dose oral administration of methocarbamol in the horse
Authors: Rumpler M. J. , Colahan P. , Sams R. A. 
Published: July 2013

A simpleLC/MSMSmethod has been developed and fully validated to determine concentrations and characterize the concentration vs. time course of methocarbamol (MCBL) and guaifenesin (GGE) in plasma after a single intravenous dose and multiple oral dose administrations ofMCBLto conditioned Thoroughbred horses. The plasma concentration–time profiles forMCBLafter a single intravenous dose of 15 mg/kg ofMCBLwere best described by a three‐compartment model. Mean extrapolated peak (C0) plasma concentrations were 23.2 (±5.93) μg/mL. Terminal half‐life, volume of distribution at steady‐state, mean residence time, and systemic clearance were characterized by a median (range) of 2.96 (2.46–4.71) h, 1.05 (0.943–1.21) L/kg, 1.98 (1.45–2.51) h, and 8.99 (6.68–10.8) mL/min/kg, respectively. Oral dose ofMCBLwas characterized by a median (range) terminal half‐life, mean transit time, mean absorption time, and apparent oral clearance of 2.89 (2.21–4.88) h, 2.67 (1.80–2.87) h, 0.410 (0.350–0.770) h, and 16.5 (13.0–20) mL/min/kg. Bioavailability of orally administeredMCBLwas characterized by a median (range) of 54.4 (43.2–72.8)%. Guaifenesin plasma concentrations were below the limit of detection in all samples collected after the single intravenous dose ofMCBLwhereas they were detected for up to 24 h after the last dose of the multiple‐dose oral regimen. This difference may be attributed to first‐pass metabolism ofMCBLtoGGEafter oral administration and may provide a means of differentiating the two routes of administration.
Fluoroquinolone levels in healthy dog urine following a 20‐mg/kg oral dose of enrofloxacin exceed mutant prevention concentration targets againstEscherichia coliisolated from canine urinary tract infections
Authors: Daniels J. B. , Tracy G. , Irom S. J. , Lakritz J. 
Published: July 2013

A 3‐day course of oral enrofloxacin is effective for treating uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) in dogs when administered 20 mg/kgQ24H. However, emergence of fluoroquinolone‐resistant mutants of uropathogens is a concern. Urine concentrations of enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin were measured in six healthy dogs following dose of enrofloxacin 20 mg/kg. Mutant prevention concentrations ofEscherichia coliisolated from canineUTIwere also determined against ciprofloxacin. UrineAUC(24)/MPCratios considering ciprofloxacin concentrations ranged 3819–7767, indicating that selection of resistantE. colimutants in dogs with uncomplicatedUTIs is unlikely in the bladder given that anAUC(24)/MPC = 39 is considered to be protective against mutant selection for ciprofloxacin. However, additional studies are required to evaluate the effects of this enrofloxacin treatment protocol on bacteria that colonize anatomic sites where fluoroquinolones achieve lower concentrations compared to the urinary bladder.
Temporal variation of ophiuroids associated with the macroalga Amphiroa fragilissima on a Southwest Atlantic coral reef
Authors: Lima Maria Lilian F. , Sovierzoski Hilda H. , Correia Monica D. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractThe species of Ophiuroidea that commonly occur on coral reefs can be found on different substrates and associated with other organisms including algae, sponges, and corals. This study evaluated the temporal variability of the ophiuroid fauna associated with the alga Amphiroa fragilissima on the Ponta Verde coral reef on the coast of Maceió in Alagoas, Northeastern Brazil. Replicate samples of algal substrate were collected at low tide during in the dry and rainy seasons, over a 10‐year period, from 1998–2007. Eight species of Ophiuroidea were identified, with a total of 8736 individuals associated with A. fragilissima. The most dominant and frequent species of Ophiuroidea were Amphipholis squamata and Ophiactis savignyi; all other species were rare. Cluster analysis and nMDS detected four groups, with two groups each occurring only in summer or winter periods, as well as other groups occurring in both periods.
Molecular characterization of the enzymes involved in the degradation of a brominated aromatic herbicide
Authors: Chen Kai , Huang Linglong , Xu Changfeng , Liu Xiaomei , He Jian , Zinder Stephen H. , Li Shunpeng , Jiang Jiandong 
Published: July 2013

SummaryDehalogenation is the key step in the degradation of halogenated aromatics, while reductive dehalogenation is originally thought to rarely occur in aerobes. In this study, an aerobic strain of Comamonas sp. 7D‐2 was shown to degrade the brominated aromatic herbicide bromoxynil completely and release two equivalents of bromides under aerobic conditions. The enzymes involved in the degradation of bromoxynil to 4‐carboxy‐2‐hydroxymuconate‐6‐semialdehyde, including nitrilase, reductive dehalogenase (BhbA), 4‐hydroxybenzoate 3‐monooxygenase and protocatechuate 4,5‐dioxygenase, were molecularly characterized. The novel dehalogenase BhbA was shown to be a complex of a respiration‐linked reductive dehalogenase (RdhA) domain and a NAD(P)H‐dependent oxidoreductase domain and to have key features of anaerobic respiratory RdhAs, including two predicted binding motifs for [4Fe‐4S] clusters and a close association with a hydrophobic membrane protein (BhbB). BhbB was confirmed to anchor BhbA to the membrane. BhbA was partially purified and found to use NAD(P)H as electron donors. Full‐length bhbA homologues were found almost exclusively in marine aerobic proteobacteria, suggesting that reductive dehalogenation occurs extensively in aerobes and that bhbA is horizontally transferred from marine microorganisms. The discovery of a functional reductive dehalogenase and ring‐cleavage oxygenases in an aerobe opens up possibilities for basic research as well as the potential application for bioremediation.
Treatment of experimental esophagogastric myotomy with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in a rat model
Authors: Mazzanti B. , Lorenzi B. , Lorenzoni P. , Borghini A. , Boieri M. , Lorenzi M. , Santosuosso M. , Bosi A. , Saccardi R. , Weber E. , Pessina F. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractBackgroundOver the last 15 years, many studies demonstrated the myogenic regenerative potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM‐MSC), making them an attractive tool for the regeneration of damaged tissues. In this study, we have developed an animal model of esophagogastric myotomy (MY) aimed at determining the role of autologous MSC in the regeneration of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) after surgery.MethodsSyngeneic BM‐MSC were locally injected at the site of MY. Histological and functional analysis were performed to evaluate muscle regeneration, contractive capacity, and the presence of green fluorescent protein–positive BM‐MSC (BM‐MSC‐GFP+) in the damaged area at different time points from implantation.Key ResultsTreatment with syngeneic BM‐MSC improved muscle regeneration and increased contractile function of damaged LES. Transplanted BM‐MSC‐GFP+ remained on site up to 30 days post injection. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that MSC maintain their phenotype and no differentiation toward smooth or striated muscle was shown at any time point.Conclusions & InferencesOur data support the use of autologous BM‐MSC to both improve sphincter regeneration of LES and to control the gastro‐esophageal reflux after MY.
The disproportionate economic burden associated with severe and complicated obesity: a systematic review
Authors: Grieve E. , Fenwick E. , Yang H‐C. , Lean M. 
Published: July 2013

SummaryBurden of disease studies typically classify individuals with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg m−2 as a single group (‘obese’) and make comparisons to those with lower BMIs. Here, we review the literature on the additional economic burden associated with severe obesity or classes 3 and 4 obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg m−2), the fastest growing category of obesity, with the aim of exploring and disaggregating differences in resource use as BMI increases beyond 40 kg m−2. We recognize the importance of comparing classes 3 and 4 obesity to less severe obesity (classes 1 and 2) as well as quantifying the single sub‐class impacts (classes 3 and 4). Although the latter analysis is the aim of this review, we include results, where found in the literature, for movement between the recognized subclasses and within classes 3 and 4 obesity. Articles presenting data on the economic burden associated with severe obesity were identified from a search of Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, EBSCO CINAHL and Cochrane Library databases. Data were extracted on the direct costs, productivity costs and resource use associated with severe obesity along with estimates of the multiplier effects associated with increasing BMI. Fifteen studies were identified, of which four disaggregated resource use for BMI ≥ 40 kg m−2. The multiplier effects derived for a variety of different types of costs incurred by the severely obese compared with those of normal weight (18.5 kg m−2 < BMI < 25 kg m−2) ranged from 1.5 to 3.9 for direct costs, and from 1.7 to 8.0 for productivity costs. There are few published data on the economic burden of obesity disaggregated by BMI ≥ 40 kg m−2. By grouping people homogenously above a threshold of BMI 40 kg m−2, the multiplier effects for those at the highest end of the spectrum are likely to be underestimated. This will, in turn, impact on the estimates of cost‐effectiveness for interventions and policies aimed at the severely obese.
Prevalence and patterns of psychiatric disorders in referred adolescents with Internet addiction
Authors: Bozkurt Hasan , Coskun Murat , Ayaydin Hamza , Adak İbrahim , Zoroglu S. Salih 
Published: July 2013

AimTo investigate prevalence and patterns of psychiatric disorders in young subjects with Internet addiction (IA).MethodsSubjects were taken from a sample of patients, aged 10–18 years old, referred to Istanbul Medical Faculty, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department due to a variety of behavioral and emotional problems alongside problematic Internet use. Inclusion criteria included IQ ≥70 and score ≥80 on Young's Internet Addiction Scale (YIAS). Psychiatric comorbidity was assessed using the Turkish version of the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School Age Children–Present and Lifetime Version.ResultsSubjects were 45 boys (75%) and 15 girls (25%) with an age range of 10–18 years old (mean age, 13.38 ± 1.79 years). A total of 60% (n = 36) had been using Internet for ≥5 years. Mean hours/week spent on the Internet was 53.7 (range, 30–105 h) and the average YIAS score was 85. All subjects (100%) had at least one and 88.3% (n = 53) had at least two comorbid psychiatric disorders. The frequency of diagnostic groups were as follows: behavioral disorder, n = 52 (86.7%); anxiety disorder, n = 43 (71.7%); mood disorder, n = 23 (38.3%); elimination disorder, n = 16 (26.7%); tic disorder, n = 10 (16.7%); and substance use disorder, n = 4 (6.7%). The most common psychiatric disorders were attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (n = 53; 83.3%), social phobia (n = 21; 35.0%) and major depressive disorder (n = 18; 30.0%).ConclusionHigh rates of psychiatric comorbidity, particularly behavioral, anxiety and mood disorders were found in young subjects with IA. Because the presence of psychiatric disorders may affect the management /prognosis of IA, assessment should include that for other psychiatric disorders.
DFG-Förderung in den Wirtschaftswissenschaften: Fakten und Mythen zur Förderpraxis
Authors: Joerk Christiane , Wambach Achim 
Published: July 2013

Abstract
Academics in the field of economic sciences are increasingly expected to solicit (research based) third party funding, even in competition with other disciplines. The recent Excellence Initiative in Germany, in which economic sciences have performed disappointingly, has shown this pressure quite plainly. This article gives an overview of the main funding programmes of the DFG (German Research Association), the assessment and decision-making process in these programmes and discusses the position of economics in the DFG funding context.
Geldwertsicherung im internationalen Goldstandard und in einer Währungsunion von Staaten mit Papierstandard aus institutionenökonomischer Sicht
Authors: Richter Rudolf 
Published: July 2013

Abstract
Economists have a hard time to predict macro-institutional developments. Missing are predictions based on tried and tested hypotheses. Why not apply proved microinstitutional hypotheses to macro-institutional problems like the European Economic Union (EMU)? We try to do that. The international gold standard serves only as counterexample. We discuss the sustainability of EMU (= stability of the euro) using a number of welltested hypotheses of institutional economics - up to the explanation of firm mergers. Yet different from business mergers, to endure, mergers of states must become self-enforcing entities, which requires ideological (cultural) integration of its citizens.
Community‐Based Health and Schools of Nursing: Supporting Health Promotion and Research
Authors: Shannon Crystal 
Published: July 2013

AbstractObjectiveThis article examines the role of community‐based schools of nursing in the promotion of public health and research in poverty‐stricken areas.Design and SampleThis was a three‐phase study (questionnaire and key‐informants' interviews) that surveyed representatives of prelicensure associate and baccalaureate nursing schools (n=17), nursing‐school key informants (n=6) and community leaders (n=10).MeasuresA 13‐question web‐based survey and semi‐structured interview of key informants elicited data on demographics, nursing program design, exposure of faculty and students to various research and health promotion methods, and beliefs about student involvement.ResultsNursing schools participated minimally in community‐based health promotion (CBHP) and community‐based participatory research saw reduced need for student involvement in such activities, cited multiple barriers to active community collaboration, and reported restricted community partnerships. CBHP was recognized to be a valuable element of health care and student education, but is obstructed by many barriers.ConclusionsThis study suggests that nursing schools are not taking full advantage of relationships with community leaders. Recommendations for action are given.
Integration of End‐of‐Life Education into a Community Health Nursing Course
Authors: Pullis Bridgette Crotwell 
Published: July 2013

AbstractStudent nurses and novice nurses report that they received little in their nursing education to adequately prepare them for the death of a patient. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing's (AACN) competencies for end‐of‐life care assert the need for competent nursing care at the time of death. To prepare students to care for dying patients and their families, a hospice clinical experience in a community health nursing course was designed to facilitate the development of competence in caring for adults and children at the end of life. At the end of the semester, the students were able to demonstrate principles of pain and symptom management and to communicate the goals and philosophy of hospice care to dying patients and their families. The students also demonstrated the ability to advocate for individuals at the end of life through the provision of information about hospice care, especially the benefits for timely referral to hospice and palliative care. The incorporation of a clinical experience into a community health nursing course that focuses on end‐of‐life care is an effective approach to teaching both community health concepts and care of dying patients. Such an approach incorporates essential content without adding to already extensive nursing curricula.
Net Fiscal Stimulus during the Great Recession
Authors: Aizenman Joshua , Pasricha Gurnain Kaur 
Published: July 2013

AbstractThis paper studies the patterns of government expenditure stimuli among Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) countries during the Great Recession (2007–2009). Overall, we find that the USA net fiscal stimulus was modest relative to peers, despite it being the epicenter of the crisis, and having access to relatively cheap funding of its twin deficits. Of the 28 countries in the sample, the USA is ranked among the bottom third in terms of the rate of expansion of consolidated government consumption and investment expenditures. Contrary to historical experience, emerging markets had strongly countercyclical policy during the period immediately preceding the Great Recession and the Great Recession itself. Federal unions, emerging markets and countries with very high gross domestic product (GDP) growth during the pre‐recession period saw larger net fiscal stimulus on average than their counterparts. We also find that greater net fiscal stimulus was associated with lower flow costs of general government debt in the same or subsequent period.