bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Advanced chronic kidney disease, end‐stage renal disease and renal death among HIV‐positive individuals in Europe
Authors: Ryom L , Kirk O , Lundgren JD , Reiss P , Pedersen C , De Wit S , Buzunova S , Gasiorowski J , Gatell JM , Mocroft A ,   EuroSIDA in EuroCoord
Published: April 2013

ObjectivesKnowledge about advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) in HIV‐positive persons is limited. The aim of this study was to investigate incidence, predictors and outcomes for advanced CKD/ESRD and renal death.MethodsAdvanced CKD was defined as confirmed (two consecutive measurements ≥ 3 months apart) estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≤ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 using Cockcroft−Gault, and ESRD as haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis for ≥ 1 month or renal transplant. Renal death was death with renal disease as the underlying cause, using Coding Causes of Death in HIV (CoDe) methodology. Follow‐up was from 1 January 2004 until last eGFR measurement, advanced CKD, ESRD or renal death, whichever occurred first. Poisson regression was used to identify predictors.ResultsOf 9044 individuals included in the study, 58 (0.64%) experienced advanced CKD/ESRD/renal death [incidence rate 1.32/1000 person‐years of follow‐up (PYFU); 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.98–1.66]; 52% of those who experienced the endpoint had a baseline eGFR ≤ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 compared with 3% of those who did not. Using Kaplan−Meier methods, at 6 years from baseline, 0.83% (95% CI 0.59–1.07%) were estimated to have experienced the endpoint overall and 11.26% (95% CI 6.75–15.78%) among those with baseline eGFR ≤ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Independent predictors of the endpoint included any cardiovascular event [incidence rate ratio (IRR) 2.16; 95% CI 1.24–3.77], lower eGFR (IRR 0.64 per 5 mL/min/1.73 m2; 95% CI 0.59–0.70) and lower CD4 count (IRR 0.77 per doubling; 95% CI 0.62–0.95). One year after experiencing advanced CKD or ESRD, an estimated 19.21% (95% CI 7.84–30.58%) of patients had died, mostly from extra‐renal causes.ConclusionsThe incidence of advanced CKD/ESRD/renal death was low and predictors included traditional renal risk factors, HIV‐related factors and pre‐existing renal impairment. The prognosis following advanced CKD/ESRD was poor. Larger studies should address possible contributions of specific antiretrovirals.
Investigation on the use of expired make‐up and microbiological contamination of mascaras
Authors: Giacomel C. B. , Dartora G. , Dienfethaeler H. S. , Haas S. E. 
Published: April 2013

SynopsisObjectivesThis study investigated the habits of female students regarding make‐up use, and quantifies the microbiological contamination of mascaras worn by this population.MethodsTo this end, 44 students answered a structured questionnaire to evaluate the use of expired make‐up, shared usage and reports of adverse effects. Subsequently, make‐up samples were collected to check the manufacturing registration and the expiration date and its visibility on the label. The total counts of microorganisms and identification of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus in mascara samples collected were performed as described in the Brazilian Pharmacopea (4th edition)ResultsAccording to the results obtained, 97.9 % (43/44) of participants reported that they use or have previously used make‐up after the expiration date, with mascara being the most frequently mentioned product. It was observed that on the sample collection date, 70.5% (31/44) of the students had some type of expired make‐up. The microbiological analysis of 40 mascara samples revealed 2.54 ± 1.76 104 UFC mL−1 bacteria and 2.55 ± 1.54 104 UFC mL−1 fungi. Analysis revealed the presence of S. aureus in 79% of samples and of P. aeruginosa in 13%.ConclusionThe results are interesting because they show that women tend to continue to use make‐up beyond the expiry date. Frequently, these products have a high level of contamination with pathogenic microorganisms.
Genetic polymorphisms of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) promoter gene and response to TNF‐α inhibitors in Spanish patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: López‐Hernández R. , Valdés M. , Campillo J. A. , Martínez‐Garcia P. , Salama H. , Salgado G. , Boix F. , Moya‐Quiles M. R. , Minguela A. , Sánchez‐Torres A. , Miras M. , Garcia A. , Carballo F. , Álvarez‐López M. R. , Muro M. 
Published: April 2013

SummaryTumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) has an important role in inflammatory response. Alterations in the regulation of TNF‐α have been implicated in a variety of inflammatory disorders, including Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Indeed, a common treatment for IBD is the use of TNF‐α inhibitors. Polymorphisms in the TNF‐α promoter region are known to affect the level of gene expression. Our aim was to investigate the influence of these single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in TNF‐α promoter gene play in the risk of IBD in a Spanish population and their individual response to anti‐TNF‐α treatment. DNA samples from patients with IBD and controls were screened for TNF‐α −238G/A (rs361525) and −308G/A (rs1800629) SNPs by PCR‐SSOP using a microbeads luminex assay and compared with response to TNF‐α inhibitors. There were not statistical differences in −238G/A and −308G/A allele and genotype frequencies between patients. However, we found an increased frequency of −308A allele and −308GA genotype in these nonresponders patients to TNF‐α inhibitors with respect to responders patients (Pc < 0.05). This −308GA genotype has been classified as high producer of this cytokine. This fact could actually be interesting to explain the different response of patients with IBD with respect to TNF‐α inhibitors. TNF‐α promoter gene polymorphism does not seem to play a role in IBD susceptibility, but particular TNF‐α genotypes may be involved in the different responses to TNF‐α inhibitor treatment in Spanish patients with IBD.
Retention of polyurethane foam fragments during VAC therapy: a complication to be considered
Authors: Dessy Luca A , Serratore Francesco , Corrias Federico , Parisi Paola , Mazzocchi Marco , Carlesimo Bruno 
Published: April 2013

AbstractVacuum‐assisted closure (VAC) therapy is a closed‐loop, non‐invasive active system, characterised by a controlled and localised negative pressure applied on porous polyurethane absorbent foams. It promotes healing of acute and chronic wounds. Therapeutic effects of VAC therapy have been proved and demonstrated; however, this method can have some disadvantages. Even if it is a quite versatile device, only qualified medical/paramedical personnel should use it in order to avoid possible complications that can occur after an improper application. In this report, 11 cases of foam‐fragment retention within the wound are presented. This rare complication did not promote healing, but further hindered it. On the basis of our experience, it is mandatory to define the indications, benefits and limitations of VAC therapy.
Effects of Increasing Temperatures on Spikelet Fertility in Different Rice Cultivars based on Temperature Gradient Chamber Experiments
Authors: Maruyama A. , Weerakoon W. M. W. , Wakiyama Y. , Ohba K. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractSpikelet sterility in rice (Oryza sativa L.) induced by high temperatures is a major concern given global warming predictions. We studied differences among eight rice cultivars in spikelet fertility at five different temperature levels in temperature gradient chamber (TGC) experiments. Six japonica and two indica cultivars were exposed to high‐temperature gradients in TGCs during the 2005 flowering season. Spikelet sterility increased with temperature in TGCs and differed among cultivars because of both variations in temperature tolerance and timing of heading. The correlation between spikelet fertility of individual panicles and both air temperature and panicle temperature during flowering was analyzed to compare tolerances among cultivars. The temperature (T75) at which spikelet fertility was 75 % of maximum ranged from 34 to 39 °C air temperature and differed significantly among cultivars. Indica varieties had higher T75 values than japonica varieties. The T75 values based on panicle temperature also differed among cultivars, but the difference between indica and japonica varieties were less significant. We concluded that the higher temperature tolerances of indica cultivars in our experiments could be attributed to lower spikelet temperatures, and cultivars with similar spikelet temperatures still had different heat tolerances due to differences in pollination ability.
Concordance: a concept analysis
Authors: Snowden Austyn , Martin Colin , Mathers Billy , Donnell Allan 
Published: April 2013

AbstractAimTo report an analysis of the concept of concordance.BackgroundAdherence‐based medicines interventions are known to be of limited success. Concordance appears to offer an alternative approach consistent with person‐centred approaches to decision‐making. However, the application of the principle of concordance appears inconsistent. This article considers the extent to which any of this confusion may be a function of the different usage of the term concordance in the disciplines of nursing, general medicine, psychiatry and pharmacy.DesignRodger's evolutionary method of concept analysis.Data sourcesCINAHL, Medline, PsychINFO, Cochrane library, Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection were searched for publications between 2000 and 2012 with combinations of key words including concord*, adherence, compliance, medic*, psychiatr*, pharm*, nurs*.Review methodsRodgers' evolutionary analytic method was used to identify and explore the concept of concordance across healthcare disciplines. A representative sample of papers was identified from the source disciplines. Over 500 papers were identified. Exclusion criteria limited the final sample to 60 papers in total, entailing 15 per discipline. Each discipline's papers were analysed for references, antecedents, consequences, attributes and surrogates separately. The team then worked together to cross‐check these interpretations.ResultsThere was minimal agreement between the disciplines suggesting each discipline practised a different conceptualization of concordance. The main point of agreement was that better research is required to articulate the scope and value of partnership working.ConclusionThe results clarified a distinct and currently missing research agenda.
Study of the Sorption Behavior of Hibiscus sabdariffa Anthocyanins on a Macroporous Resin
Authors: Beye Cheikh , Tounkara Lat Souk , Destain Jacqueline , Zgoulli Slim , Ndoye Ababacar Sadikh , Thonart Philippe 
Published: April 2013

AbstractThe adsorption of Hibiscus sabdariffa sp. anthocyanins onto a macroporous resin was studied in laboratory experiments. The anthocyanin aqueous extracts obtained from the calyces were used in agitated batch experiments with a macroporous resin. The adsorption kinetics and isotherms of H. sabdariffa anthocyanins on a selected macroporous resin was studied to determine the parameters that have to be optimized to recover the anthocyanins from aqueous extracts of the calyces. The adsorption kinetic experimental data were fit into a pseudo second order kinetic model, which was then used to determine several parameters such as the contact time necessary to reach equilibrium as well as the maximum adsorption capacity. The best fit for the equilibrium adsorption isotherm experimental data was obtained with the Langmuir isotherm model. Based on qualitative and quantitative interpretation of the experimental data, the resin that was tested here appeared to have good adsorption capacity for the anthocyanins even though the necessary time to reach equilibrium was particularly long.Three aspects of the desorption of anthocyanins from the resin were studied: the speed of release of the anthocyanins (desorption kinetics), the extent of the anthocyanin desorption depending on the adsorption contact time and finally, the influence of the mobile phase's characteristics.Practical ApplicationsThe purpose of this work is to facilitate the industrial production of a natural food colorant anthocyanin from H. sabdariffa calyces using a macroporous resin. To attain this, goal values from adsorption experimental data were computed and fit to theoretical adsorption models.The maximum adsorption capacity and the time necessary to reach equilibrium were determined. Qualitative and quantitative interpretation of the experimental data proved that the adsorbent/adsorbate system in study is a favorable process.The desorption of anthocyanins was also studied in order to determine the time necessary to achieve a satisfactory recovery rate, as well as the values of parameters that have a marked influence on the desorption efficiency.The obtained results and the calculated parameters will subsequently be used to plan colorant extraction at a bigger scale.
Birth and life of tree aggregates in tropical forest: hypotheses on population dynamics of an aggregated shade‐tolerant species
Authors: Traissac Stéphane , Pascal Jean‐Pierre 
Published: April 2013

AbstractQuestionsSeveral studies have described aggregated spatial patterns in tropical tree species. This study investigates aggregate dynamics of Vouacapoua americana (Aublet), a climax species whose spatial pattern is not simply related to light and soil conditions or to its short seed dispersal range.LocationTwo rain forest sites: Nouragues and Paracou, in the Guiana Shield.MethodsWe described the spatial pattern of tree locations and spatial autocorrelation of tree diameters, using statistics derived from Ripley's K. We particularly used methods to define analysis subplots according to local density or local mean diameter. We investigated relationships between spatial distributions of adults and saplings.ResultsAt both sites, populations of Vouacapoua demonstrated several nested levels of aggregation. Tree diameters were spatially autocorrelated, revealing the existence of clusters with similar diameters. In the largest aggregates, tree diameters declined from the centre to the edge. Regeneration was aggregated and occurred mainly at cluster edges and around rare isolated trees, and sapling densities and basal area of adults were negatively correlated. We show that long‐distance dispersal events are rare.ConclusionsEnvironmental factors and seed dispersal only explain part of the observed spatial patterns. We provide two main hypotheses about Vouacapoua population dynamics. First, the lack of regeneration in aggregate centres results in the ageing of existing aggregates. We suggest that this lack of recruitment close to mature trees is due to a Janzen–Connell effect. However, aggregates can continue to grow along colonization fronts. Second, long‐distance dispersal events allow the formation of new clusters and play a crucial role in the colonization process.
The ‘species recognition hypothesis’ does not explain the presence and evolution of exaggerated structures in non‐avialan dinosaurs
Authors: Hone D. W. E. , Naish D. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractThe hypothesis that the exaggerated structures in various non‐avialan dinosaurs (e.g. horns, crests, plates) primarily functioned in species recognition, allowing individuals of a species to recognize one another, is critically examined. While multifunctionality for many such structures is probable given extant analogues, invoking species recognition as the primary selective mechanism driving the evolution of such structures is problematic given the lack of evidence for this in extant species. Furthermore, some of the evidence presented does not support the hypothesis as claimed or is equivocal or erroneous. Suggestions that certain evolutionary patterns of diversification in these exaggerated structures are indicative of a role in species recognition are unreliable, as both a degree of phylogenetic directionality and of randomness are seen in extant species where similar structures function in sexual selection. Claims that an absence of sexual dimorphism in the exaggerated structures of non‐avialan dinosaurs rule against a role in sexual selection ignores the possible existence of mutual sexual selection and is also sometimes limited in view of sample sizes. The suggestion that the existence of species recognition is supported by the presence of exaggerated structures in sympatric, closely related relatives is also erroneous because adorned dinosaur species sometimes exist in the absence of unadorned relatives. We conclude that species recognition was not the evolutionary mechanism most likely to be driving the appearance and persistence of exaggerated structures in non‐avialan dinosaurs.
Role of chemical structures and the 1331T>C bile salt export pump polymorphism in idiosyncratic drug‐induced liver injury
Authors: Ulzurrun Eugenia , Stephens Camilla , Crespo Esperanza , Ruiz‐Cabello Francisco , Ruiz‐Nuñez Julia , Saenz‐López Pablo , Moreno‐Herrera Inmaculada , Robles‐Díaz Mercedes , Hallal Hacibe , Moreno‐Planas José M. , Cabello Maria R. , Lucena M. Isabel , Andrade Raúl J. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractBackground & AimsSeveral pharmaceutical compounds have been shown to exert inhibitory effects on the bile salt export pump (BSEP) encoded by the ABCB11 gene. We analysed the combined effect on drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) development of the ABCB11 1331T>C polymorphism and the presence of specific chemical moieties, with known BSEP inhibiting properties, in the causative drug.MethodsGenotyping using a TaqMan 5′ allelic discrimination assay was performed in 188 Spanish DILI patients, 219 healthy controls and 91 sex‐, age‐ and drug‐matched controls. A chemical structure analysis was performed for each individual causative drug.ResultsThe CC genotype was significantly associated with hepatocellular damage [odds ratio (OR) = 2.1, P = 0.001], particularly in NSAID DILI cases (OR = 3.4, P = 0.007). In addition, the CC genotype was found to be significantly linked to DILI development from drugs causing <50% BSEP inhibition (OR = 1.8, Pc = 0.011). Of the BSEP inhibitory chemical moieties, 59% of the causative drugs contained a carbocyclic system with at least one aromatic ring, corresponding to 61% of the total cases. The C allele was significantly more frequent in DILI cases containing this chemical moiety, which appear to be conditioned on the ABCB11 1331T>C polymorphism in the absence of other BSEP inhibitory structures.ConclusionPatients carrying the C allele in the ABCB11 1331T>C polymorphism are at increased risk of developing hepatocellular type of DILI, when taking drugs containing a carbocyclic system with aromatic rings.
Normalization of the psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score in Polish population. A prospective, quantified electroencephalography study
Authors: Wunsch Ewa , Koziarska Dorota , Kotarska Katarzyna , Nowacki Przemysław , Milkiewicz Piotr 
Published: April 2013

AbstractBackgroundThe psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES) is recommended as a gold standard in evaluation of minimal hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Normative databases have been collected in few countries, clearly showing differences among studied groups. Thus, the standardization of PHES for selected populations remains necessary.AimsTo standardize PHES in a large cohort of Polish healthy subjects and to evaluate the normograms in patients with cirrhosis with quantified electroencephalography (EEG).MethodsThree hundred and sixteen (142 males/174 females, aged 44.5 ± 12.1) normal individuals and 50 (31 males/19 females, aged 52.8 ± 12.4) patients with cirrhosis without overt HE were included. Key correction variables of psychometric tests were performed. The multivariate linear regression was used to calculate PHES normograms.ResultsAge and education levels were identified as predictors of all tests, therefore age‐ and education‐adjusted normograms were developed. A weighted time‐errors regression model for line tracing test (LTT) scoring was used. The PHES ranged between +5 and −15 points and the cut‐off between normal and pathological PHES was set on ≤−5 points. By this cut‐off level, PHES had a sensitivity of 57% and specificity of 97% to diagnose minimal HE (AUC = 0.866 ± 0.028). In patients with cirrhosis, PHES correlated with severity of liver disease (MELD, r = −0.475, P < 0.001 and Child–Pugh classification, r = −0.452, P < 0.002) and EEG (r = 0.547, P < 0.002). In patients with impaired EEG, PHES was lower than in individuals with unaltered EEG (P < 0.02); however, agreement between these two modalities was limited.ConclusionsValid Polish PHES normograms, which incorporates w‐LTT scoring system have been developed. Future multi‐centre international studies are needed to validate widely applicable norms.
The Košice meteorite fall: Atmospheric trajectory, fragmentation, and orbit
Authors: Borovička Jiří , Tóth Juraj , Igaz Antal , Spurný Pavel , Kalenda Pavel , Haloda Jakub , Svoreň Ján , Kornoš Leonard , Silber Elizabeth , Brown Peter , Husárik Marek 
Published: April 2013

AbstractThe Košice meteorite fall occurred in eastern Slovakia on February 28, 2010, 22:25 UT. The very bright bolide was imaged by three security video cameras from Hungary. Detailed bolide light curves were obtained through clouds by radiometers on seven cameras of the European Fireball Network. Records of sonic waves were found on six seismic and four infrasonic stations. An atmospheric dust cloud was observed the next morning before sunrise. After careful calibration, the video records were used to compute the bolide trajectory and velocity. The meteoroid, of estimated mass of 3500 kg, entered the atmosphere with a velocity of 15 km s−1 on a trajectory with a slope of 60° to the horizontal. The largest fragment ceased to be visible at a height of 17 km, where it was decelerated to 4.5 km s−1. A maximum brightness of absolute stellar magnitude about −18 was reached at a height of 36 km. We developed a detailed model of meteoroid atmospheric fragmentation to fit the observed light curve and deceleration. We found that Košice was a weak meteoroid, which started to fragment under the dynamic pressure of only 0.1 MPa and fragmented heavily under 1 MPa. In total, 78 meteorites were recovered in the predicted fall area during official searches. Other meteorites were found by private collectors. Known meteorite masses ranged from 0.56 g to 2.37 kg. The meteorites were classified as ordinary chondrites of type H5 and shock stage S3. The heliocentric orbit had a relatively large semimajor axis of 2.7 AU and aphelion distance of 4.5 ± 0.5 AU. Backward numerical integration of the preimpact orbit indicates possible large variations of the orbital elements in the past due to resonances with Jupiter.
Is the Effect of Mobile Phone Radiofrequency Waves on Human Skin Perfusion Non‐Thermal?
Authors: Loos Nathalie , Thuróczy György , Ghosn Rania , Brenet‐Dufour Valérie , Liabeuf Sophie , Selmaoui Brahim , Libert Jean‐Pierre , Bach Véronique , Diouf Momar , de Seze René 
Published: April 2013

AbstractObjectiveTo establish whether SkBF can be modified by exposure to the radiofrequency waves emitted by a mobile phone when the latter is held against the jaw and ear.MethodsVariations in SkBF and Tsk in adult volunteers were simultaneously recorded with a thermostatic laser Doppler system during a 20‐minute “radiofrequency” exposure session and a 20‐minute “sham” session. The skin microvessels’ vasodilatory reserve was assessed with a heat challenge at the end of the protocol.ResultsDuring the radiofrequency exposure session, SkBF increased (vs. baseline) more than during the sham exposure session. The sessions did not differ significant in terms of the Tsk time‐course response. The skin microvessels’ vasodilatory ability was found to be greater during radiofrequency exposure than during sham exposure.ConclusionsOur results reveal the existence of a specific vasodilatory effect of mobile phone radiofrequency emission on skin perfusion.