bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Early Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Transient Ischemic Attack and Minor Stroke
Authors: Moreau François , Modi Jayesh , Almekhlafi Mohammed , Bal Simer , Goyal Mayank , Hill Michael D. , Coutts Shelagh B. 
Published: February 2013

Background and Purpose—
The use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after transient ischemic attack (TIA) or minor stroke may be affected by the relative timing of imaging. We measured the impact of scanning an individual patient late versus early after TIA and minor stroke.

Methods—
Two hundred sixty-three TIA or minor stroke (National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score ≤3) patients with a baseline MRI completed within 24 hours of symptom onset and a follow-up MRI at 90 days were included. Baseline and 90-day scans were assessed independently for the presence of any stroke lesions that could explain the presenting symptoms. The presence and pattern of any stroke lesions were compared at the 2 time points.

Results—

The presence of a stroke (acute or chronic) in any location was more common on baseline MRI versus 90-day MRI (68% vs 56%;
P
=0.005). Thirty percent of subjects with negative scans at 90 days had a clearly identifiable stroke at baseline. When interpreted blinded to the baseline scan, the presumed relevant lesion on the 90-day MR scan was the correct lesion in only 53% patients. One-third (34%) of patients had a different lesion pattern on the baseline scan compared with the 90-day scan. Ninety percent (80/89) of these patients had more lesions on the baseline MRI and 10% (9/89) had new lesions on the 90-day MRI.

Conclusions—
Delayed MRI after TIA or minor stroke reduces the diagnostic yield and results in missed understanding of the lesion pattern. MRI of minor stroke and TIA patients should occur early after symptom onset, and delayed imaging should be interpreted with caution.
Global energy institutions. Russia at the IEA can tip the scale, assuring enhanced governance
Authors: Tita Alberto 
Published: February 2013

International cooperation on energy had momentum in 2012. So far fragmented in multiple initiatives and agencies, the global dialogue about energy can now undergo some rationalization. Such innovation takes move from Russia action, as one of the key energy exporters, in multilateral venues. Last summer Moscow either entered the WTO, either got the pro-tempore Presidency of the G8/G20. Moreover, Russia is at the OECD doorstep for joining it as a full-fledged member, with a view to entering the OECD affiliate, the Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA).
All these hubs of international cooperation are the core of global economic governance and hugely involved in energy regulation. For their strict interrelation, the role that Moscow can simultaneously play at the junction of such institutions will result essential to favour the centrality of the IEA. With beneficial effects over international energy regulation and, in the end, on global governance as well. … From Russia with … law?
Electromagnetically shielding composite made from carbon fibers, glass fibers, and impact-resistant polypropylene
Authors: Lin Ching-Wen , Lou Ching-Wen , Huang Chen-Hung , Huang Chien-Lin , Lin Jia-Horng 
Published: February 2013

In order to create polymer composites that can shield machine and instrument casings from electromagnetism and to reclaim waste material, this study melt-blended impact-resistant polypropylene (PP) chips, carbon fibers (CFs; 5, 10, 15, or 20 wt%), and glass fibers (GFs; 0, 5, 7 wt%). This process used a single-screw extruder to make electrically conductive composites. The resulting composites were then evaluated in terms of mechanical properties, electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (EMSE), and surface resistivity. According to experimental results, an increase in CF content increased PP/CF composites’ tensile strength to 29.31 MPa and flexural strength to 38.93 MPa but decreased the impact strength to 49.04 MPa. When the CFs were increased to 15 wt%, the EMSE and surface resistivity of PP/CF composites were above 20 db and 3.3 × 103 Ω/square. For PP/CF/GF composites, with an increase in GF content, the EMSE decreased and the surface resistivity increased.
Circadian rhythm of urinary potassium excretion during treatment with an angiotensin receptor blocker
Authors: Ogiyama Yoshiaki , Miura Toshiyuki , Watanabe Shuichi , Fuwa Daisuke , Tomonari Tatsuya , Ota Keisuke , Kato Yoko , Ichikawa Tadashi , Shirasawa Yuichi , Ito Akinori , Yoshida Atsuhiro , Fukuda Michio , Kimura Genjiro 
Published: February 2013

Introduction: We have reported that the circadian rhythm of urinary potassium excretion (UKV) is determined by the rhythm of urinary sodium excretion (UNaV) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We also reported that treatment with an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) increased the UNaV during the daytime, and restored the non-dipper blood pressure (BP) rhythm into a dipper pattern. However, the circadian rhythm of UKV during ARB treatment has not been reported. Materials and methods: Circadian rhythms of UNaV and UKV were examined in 44 patients with CKD undergoing treatment with ARB. Results: Whole-day UNaV was not altered by ARB whereas whole-day UKV decreased. Even during the ARB treatment, the significant relationship persisted between the night/day ratios of UNaV and UKV ( r=0.56, p<0.0001). Whole-day UKV/UNaV ratio ( p=0.0007) and trans-tubular potassium concentration gradient ( p=0.002) were attenuated but their night/day ratios remained unchanged. The change in the night/day UKV ratio correlated directly with the change in night/day UNaV ratio ( F=20.4) rather than with the changes in aldosterone, BP or creatinine clearance. Conclusions: The circadian rhythm of UKV was determined by the rhythm of UNaV even during ARB treatment. Changes in the circadian UKV rhythm were not determined by aldosterone but by UNaV.
Reducing residual risk: modern pharmacochemistry meets old-fashioned lifestyle and adherence improvement
Authors: Kones Richard 
Published: February 2013

Despite remarkable advances in identifying and managing coronary heart disease, the global burden of cardiovascular (CV) risk and levels of undetected, subclinical heart disease remain enormous. Substantial numbers of patients do not reach their therapeutic goals, others are unable to tolerate the treatments, half may fail to adhere to their programs, and in those who do attain their targets, major cardiovascular events may continue. Well-known risk factors, such as obesity and diabetes, have now gained the upper hand, with no evidence-based remedy capable of reversing this trend. All told, less than 1% of American adults and adolescents qualify for ideal CV health; world-wide, the growing prevalence of CV risk factors in children is imposing. A number of novel emerging drug therapies are in development, some recently approved for use in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia. Hopefully, they will contribute significantly to the current therapeutic armamentarium. However, for meaningful improvement in total and residual CV risk, an optimal mix of all available modalities will likely be necessary, including earlier and more effective prevention, aggressive medical care, revascularization and device implantation, judicious use of novel agents, and reengineering of the environment.
Development and Validation of the Elbow Demand Rating Scale
Authors: Nissen Carl W. , O’Hara Emily A. , McCarthy Mark , Kostyun Regina 
Published: February 2013

Background: Overhead sports place the greatest strain on the elbow of any of the upper extremity joints. Unfortunately, athlete-specific functional outcome tools do not exist for the elbow. Hypotheses: The Elbow Demand Rating Scale (EDS) will demonstrate strong reliability and validity properties: (1) test-retest reliability with a 2-week EDS administration, (2) internal reliability of the subscales, and (3) construct validity through lower scores for patients with elbow injuries. Study Design: Prospective case-control study. Methods: Patients with (n = 19) and without elbow injuries (n = 19) completed the EDS during their routine clinical appointment and 2 weeks later. Clinicians completed the functional portion of the EDS. Results: The EDS demonstrated strong test-retest reliability and construct validity. Internal reliability was moderate (α = 0.50). Exploratory analyses further supported construct validity using demographic survey questions regarding elbow pain and symptoms. Conclusion: Overall, the EDS demonstrated moderate to strong psychometric properties in a patient population with elbow injuries, and its use is supported for young athletes. Clinical Relevance: The EDS provides clinicians working with adolescent and young adult athletes a scale to direct care and determine intervention success or failure.
Divergent Practices among Catholic Hospitals in Provision of Direct Sterilization
Authors: Hapenney Sandra 
Published: February 2013

Background The Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Catholic Care Services (ERDs) are designed to promote uniform practice of health care in accordance with human and Catholic values. The aim of this study was to determine whether the ERDs are being uniformly interpreted and applied. Directive 53 prohibits the provision of direct sterilization. Hospital data were reviewed to determine whether direct sterilizations on women are being performed within Catholic hospitals and their frequency. A significant diversity of practice regarding sterilization would indicate that the ERDs are not uniformly interpreted and applied by Catholic hospitals in the United States. Methods All Catholic hospitals in seven states—California, Illinois, Indiana, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington—were studied to determine whether diversity of practice existed in the provision of direct female sterilization. Inpatient discharge data were requested from the respective departments of health for each state for three years (2007–2009). Data from 1,734 hospitals, secular and Catholic, within the states were procured and analyzed. Results Of the hospitals from the seven states, 239 Catholic hospitals were identified of which 176 provided obstetric services. The patient records of these 176 hospitals were searched for those records containing the diagnostic code from the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) coding system for sterilization for contraceptive management. Eighty-five or 48 percent of these hospitals provided a total of 20,073 direct sterilizations in violation of the ERDs. The entire results of the study are available on the website catholichospitals.org . Conclusion There is a significant diversity of practice in the provision of direct female sterilization within Catholic hospitals. Such diversity of practice indicates that there is no uniform interpretation or application of the ERDs by Catholic hospitals. Uniformity could be fostered if the ERDs mandated best practices for accountability and made use of the ICD-9-CM codes where possible to monitor actual practices. In the case of direct sterilizations reference to ICD-9-CM codes in the ERDs would minimize subjective criteria in the implementation of the ERDs.
Physiological Signs of Ovulation and Fertility Readily Observable by Women
Authors: Owen Martin 
Published: February 2013

Introduction Confirmation of ovulation can be difficult in clinical practice, as gold standard methods including serial transvaginal ultrasonography, serum luteinizing hormone (LH) measurements, or laparoscopic follicular observation are impractical. Numerous surrogate markers have been proposed and evaluated in relation to these gold standards that have more practical clinical applications. Purpose To review the evidence on physiological signs of ovulation timing and fertility in order to determine valid markers that can be easily identified by women. Methods A literature review of primary resources in Ovid Medline was undertaken to identify studies examining physiological signs as they relate to gold standard assessment of ovulation. Studies examining the efficacy/effectiveness of different types of natural family planning were excluded. Results The most commonly encountered physiological signs were urine LH, cervical mucus, and basal body temperature (BBT). Urine LH as assessed by home monitoring systems indicated ovulation 91 percent of the time during the 2 days of peak fertility on the monitor and 97 percent during the 2 peak days plus 1. Cervical mucus peak characteristics were identified 78 percent of the time ±1 day, and 91 percent of the time ±2 days of LH surge indicating ovulation. Further research supports the importance of cervical mucus in overall fertility, as conception rates were more closely related to mucus quality than to timing of intercourse related to ovulation. As a lone indicator of ovulation, BBT is at best a retrospective marker, and functions best in conjunction with other signs of ovulation. Additionally, salivary ferning, salivary and vaginal fluid electrical potential, finger–finger electrical potential, and differential skin temperature were postulated as possible indicators, but were not found to be temporally related to ovulation. The research on differential skin temperature is promising, but minimal thus far in number, and has not been evaluated as an adjunct to BBT as yet. Conclusion Home urinary LH monitors are becoming more widely available and less expensive giving women the potential to assess the ovulatory status of their cycle in real time. Cervical mucus observation is an effective and cost-efficient method, but requires some teaching to increase the confidence of users. In conjunction, LH monitors and cervical mucus can give the best indication of fertility and ovulation timing.
On Mann-type iteration method for a family of hemicontractive mappings in Hilbert spaces
Authors: Hussain Nawab , Ćirić Ljubomir B , Cho Yeol Je , Rafiq Arif 
Published: February 2013

Abstract
Let K be a compact convex subset of a real Hilbert space H and

T
i

:
K
→
K

,

i
=
1
,
2
,
…
,
k

, be a family of continuous hemicontractive mappings. Let

α
n

,

β
n
i

∈
[
0
,
1
]

be such that

α
n

+

∑

i
=
1

k

β
n
i

=
1

and satisfying

{

α
n

}
,

β
n
i

⊂
[
δ
,
1
−
δ
]

for some

δ
∈
(
0
,
1
)

,

i
=
1
,
2
,
…
,
k

. For arbitrary

x
0

∈
K

, define the sequence

{

x
n

}

by (1.9) see below, then

{

x
n

}

converges strongly to a common fixed point in

⋂

i
=
1

k

F
(

T
i

)
≠
∅

.

MSC:05C38, 15A15, 05A15, 15A18.
An integrated approach to characterize transcription factor and microRNA regulatory networks involved in Schwann cell response to peripheral nerve injury
Authors: Chang Li-Wei , Viader Andreu , Varghese Nobish , Payton Jacqueline E , Milbrandt Jeffrey , Nagarajan Rakesh 
Published: February 2013

Abstract

Background
The regenerative response of Schwann cells after peripheral nerve injury is a critical process directly related to the pathophysiology of a number of neurodegenerative diseases. This SC injury response is dependent on an intricate gene regulatory program coordinated by a number of transcription factors and microRNAs, but the interactions among them remain largely unknown. Uncovering the transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory networks governing the Schwann cell injury response is a key step towards a better understanding of Schwann cell biology and may help develop novel therapies for related diseases. Performing such comprehensive network analysis requires systematic bioinformatics methods to integrate multiple genomic datasets.

Results
In this study we present a computational pipeline to infer transcription factor and microRNA regulatory networks. Our approach combined mRNA and microRNA expression profiling data, ChIP-Seq data of transcription factors, and computational transcription factor and microRNA target prediction. Using mRNA and microRNA expression data collected in a Schwann cell injury model, we constructed a regulatory network and studied regulatory pathways involved in Schwann cell response to injury. Furthermore, we analyzed network motifs and obtained insights on cooperative regulation of transcription factors and microRNAs in Schwann cell injury recovery.

Conclusions
This work demonstrates a systematic method for gene regulatory network inference that may be used to gain new information on gene regulation by transcription factors and microRNAs.
Sulphur limitation provokes physiological and leaf proteome changes in oilseed rape that lead to perturbation of sulphur, carbon and oxidative metabolisms
Authors: D’Hooghe Philippe , Escamez Sacha , Trouverie Jacques , Avice Jean-Christophe 
Published: February 2013

Abstract

Background
The decline in industrial emissions of sulphur (S) has led to a sulphate depletion in soil resulting in an alteration of crop performance. In oilseed rape, an S deficiency dramatically reduced the seed yield and/or quality. Paradoxically, little is known about the impact of sulphate limitation on oilseed rape leaf metabolism, despite it being a key determinant of growth. In order to identify the metabolic processes involved in the oilseed rape response to S restriction, an analysis of the young leaf proteome combined with a physiological study was carried out at the vegetative stage.

Results
S limitation does not significantly reduce the total shoot biomass but inhibits growth and photosynthesis of young leaves. This photosynthesis decline is not due to a decrease in chlorophyll content, which remains similar to Control. The increase in anthocyanins and H2O2 content in young leaves of S-limited plants suggests that S restriction leads to an oxidative stress. Proteomic analysis at 35 d of S limitation also revealed the induction of 12-oxophitodienoate reductase and ACC synthase, respectively involved in jasmonate and ethylene biosynthesis, two phytohormones that could be implicated in oxidative stress. Proteins involved in photosynthesis and carbon metabolism were also modulated by S restriction. In particular, the decrease in plastocyanin and ferredoxin–NADP reductase suggests that H2O2 accumulation is associated with perturbation of the photosynthetic electron transport chain. The accumulation of chloroplastic Cu-Zn SOD reinforces the idea that an oxidative stress probably occurs in the chloroplast. Proteomic results suggest that the maintenance of chlorophyll in S-limited conditions is related to an accumulation of Water Soluble Chlorophyll binding Proteins, involved in the protection of chlorophyll against ROS. The accumulation of the catalytic α–subunit of chloroplastic ATP synthase suggests that energy production is maintained.

Conclusion
S limitation leads to photosynthesis and carbon metabolism disturbances that could be responsible for the oxidative stress observed in the young leaves of oilseed rape. Despite this, induction of proteins involved in oxidative stress resistance and energy production shows that the leaf capacity to capture and use photosynthetic active radiations for ATP production remains efficient for as long as possible.
Healthcare workers and prevention of hepatitis C virus transmission: exploring knowledge, attitudes and evidence-based practices in hemodialysis units in Italy
Authors: Bianco Aida , Bova Francesca , Nobile Carmelo GA , Pileggi Claudia , Pavia Maria ,   The Collaborative Working Group
Published: February 2013

Abstract

Background
Evidence exists regarding the full prevention of HCV transmission to hemodialysis patients by implementing universal precaution. However, little information is available regarding the frequency with which hospitals have adopted evidence-based practices for preventing HCV infection among hemodialysis patients. A cross-sectional survey has been conducted among nurses in Calabria region (Italy) in order to acquire information about the level of knowledge, the attitudes and the frequencies of evidence-based practices that prevent hospital transmission of HCV.

Methods
All 37 hemodialysis units (HDU) of Calabria were included in the study and all nurses were invited to participate in the study and to fill in a self-administered questionnaire.

Results
90% of the nurses working in HDU participated in the study. Correct answers about HCV pattern of transmission ranged from 73.7% to 99.3% and were significantly higher in respondents who knew that isolation of HCV-infected patients is not recommended and among those who knew that previous bloodstream infections should be included in medical record and among nurses with fewer years of practice. Most correctly thought that evidence-based infection control measures provide adequate protection against transmission of bloodborne pathogens among healthcare workers. Positive attitude was significantly higher among more knowledgeable nurses. Self-reporting of appropriate handwashing procedures were significantly more likely in nurses who were aware that transmission of bloodborne pathogens among healthcare workers may be prevented through adoption of evidence-based practices and with a correct knowledge about HCV transmission patterns.

Conclusions
Behavior changes should be aimed at abandoning outdated practices and adopting and maintaining evidence-based practices. Initiatives focused at enabling and reinforcing adherence to effective prevention practices among nurses in HDU are strongly needed.
Finding an alternative diagnosis does not justify increased use of CT-pulmonary angiography
Authors: Chandra Subani , Sarkar Pralay K , Chandra Divay , Ginsberg Nicole E , Cohen Rubin I 
Published: February 2013

Abstract

Background
The increased use of computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) is often justified by finding alternative diagnoses explaining patients’ symptoms. However, this has not been rigorously examined.

Methods
We retrospectively reviewed CTPA done at our center over an eleven year period (2000 – 2010) in patients with suspected pulmonary embolus (PE). We then reviewed in detail the medical records of a representative sample of patients in three index years – 2000, 2005 and 2008. We determined whether CTPA revealed pulmonary pathology other than PE that was not readily identifiable from the patient’s history, physical examination and prior chest X-ray. We also assessed whether the use of pre-test probability guided diagnostic strategy for PE.

Results
A total of 12,640 CTPA were performed at our center from year 2000 to 2010. The number of CTPA performed increased from 84 in 2000 to 2287 in 2010, a 27 fold increase. Only 7.6 percent of all CTPA and 3.2 percent of avoidable CTPAs (low or intermediate pre-test probability and negative D-dimer) revealed previously unknown findings of any clinical significance. When we compared 2008 to 2000 and 2005, more CTPAs were performed in younger patients (mean age (years) for 2000: 67, 2005: 63, and 2008: 60, (p=0.004, one–way ANOVA)). Patients were less acutely ill with fewer risk factors for PE. Assessment of pre-test probability of PE and D-dimer measurement were rarely used to select appropriate patients for CTPA (pre-test probability of PE documented in chart (% total) in year 2000: 4.1%, 2005: 1.6%, 2008: 3.1%).

Conclusions
Our data do not support the argument that increased CTPA use is justified by finding an alternative pulmonary pathology that could explain patients’ symptoms. CTPA is being increasingly used as the first and only test for suspected PE.