bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase (nNOS, NOS1) rs693534 and rs7977109 Variants and Risk for Migraine
Authors: García‐Martín Elena , Martínez Carmen , Serrador Mercedes , Alonso‐Navarro Hortensia , Navacerrada Francisco , García‐Albea Esteban , Agúndez José A.G. , Jiménez‐Jiménez Félix Javier 
Published: August 2015

Background/ObjectivesMany biochemical, pharmacological, neuropathological, and experimental data suggest a possible role of nitric oxide in the pathogenesis of migraine. We investigated the possible association between functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the neuronal nitric oxide synthase gene (NOS1 or nNOS; chromosome 12q24.22) and the risk for migraine.MethodsWe studied the frequency of the of rs7977109 and rs693534 genotypes and allelic variants in 197 patients with migraine and 308 healthy controls using a TaqMan‐based qPCR assay. As a secondary analysis, we studied the possible influence of gender, age at onset of migraine, positive family history of migraine, and presence or absence of aura on the genotypes frequency.ResultsThe frequencies of rs7977109 and rs693534 genotypes and allelic variants were not associated with the risk for migraine with OR for minor alleles = 0.94 (95% CI 0.72‐1.23) and = 0.88 (0.68‐1.15), respectively, and the lack of association was not influenced by gender, age at onset of migraine, positive family history of migraine, and presence or absence of aura.ConclusionNOS1 rs7977109 and rs693534 genotypes and allelic variants are not associated with the risk for migraine in Caucasian Spanish people.
Evolving ‘self’‐management: exploring the role of social network typologies on individual long‐term condition management
Authors: Morris Rebecca L. , Kennedy Anne , Sanders Caroline 
Published: August 2015

AbstractBackgroundWhilst there has been a focus on the importance of social support for managing long‐term conditions, there has been little specific focus on the characteristics of social networks that shape self‐management. Policy emphasis is placed on individual responsibility for self‐care, and this influences commissioning of health‐care services. Assumptions are often made by policymakers about accessibility and preference for support and the influence of the social context on chronic illness management.ObjectiveTo examine the social networks of individuals with long‐term conditions and identify how the characteristics of their composition influences support needs.Design, setting and participantsThirty participants completed initial face‐to‐face in‐depth interviews, telephone follow‐ups and final face‐to‐face interviews in the north‐west of England. A longitudinal qualitative design was used to elicit the subtle changes in relationships over a year.FindingsThe findings suggest that the relationships which constitute a social network influence perceived support needs and attitudes to self‐management. The amalgamation of relationships was characterized into three network typologies (family focused, friend focused or health‐care professional focused) according to which types of relationships were dominant. In the absence of support, accounts highlighted a small number of substitutes who could provide support at times of critical need.DiscussionThis study challenges the notion of ‘self’‐management as an individual construct as many of the practices of illness management involved the support and/or negotiation of roles with others. By examining the nuances of relationships, this study has highlighted the tacit boundaries of practical and emotional support provision.
Rights and duties policy implementation in Chile: health‐care professionals’ perceptions
Authors: Barrera Constanza R. , Negrón Camila P. , Barría R. Mauricio , Méndez Claudio A. 
Published: August 2015

AbstractObjectiveTo explore the perceptions of health professionals in an integrated network of public provision of health services regarding the implementation of the Law on Rights and Duties of People in Chile.MethodQualitative descriptive study. A stratified qualitative sample of 53 professionals from five low complexity centres and one from a high complexity centre, all part of the integrated network of health services in Valdivia, Los Rios Region, Chile, were selected according to the criteria of an overall saturation of the explored dimensions. The information was gathered through a semi‐structured, in‐depth interview carried out after signing the informed consent. Data were analysed using an inductive approach of content analysis.ResultsThree categories emerged from the interviews: conceptualization and knowledge, factors influencing the implementation and recommendations for strengthening the implementation, and seven subcategories. It was highlighted that health professionals in the health‐care network perceived difficulties in implementing the Law on rights and duties of patients. Among them were the lack of knowledge about the Law, poor exposure and a lack of resources for its implementation. They suggested adapting the infrastructure of the institution and offering training as recommendations to improve the implementation of the Law.ConclusionsThere are hindering factors for the implementation of the Law related to organizational and professional gaps in the institutions providing health care.
Effects of fining with different bentonite labels and doses on colloidal stability and colour of a Valpolicella red wine
Authors: Dordoni Roberta , Galasi Roberta , Colangelo Donato , De Faveri Dante Marco , Lambri Milena 
Published: August 2015

SummaryThis study addressed four different labels of activated sodium bentonite during the fining of a young Valpolicella red wine. Preliminary tests determined the bentonite dose (0.15, 0.30 or 0.50 g L−1) that would achieve colloidal stability, and this dose was further applied during laboratory‐scale trials. The bentonites were characterised by physico‐chemical parameters, and the effects of the label and dose on the wine colloidal stability, proteins, colour indices and phenolic compounds were measured. The results demonstrated that 0.50 g L−1 for every bentonite label provided colloidal stabilisation without harshly affecting the colour. Unlike to what happens in white wines the least charged bentonite labels were effective at stabilising the red wine colloidal state by partially reducing its protein content. Simultaneously, the most negatively charged clay samples determined the largest depletions on the total polyphenols, anthocyanins, tannins and polymeric pigments. The differentiated action of clays with different surface charge density among white and red wines may be explained by the interaction mediated by positively charged anthocyanins towards either protein or tannin depletion. Although pioneering, these results may move towards the definition of a safe, allergen‐free, and effective adjuvant for colloidal stabilisation targeted to wine type.
Individual patient data meta-analysis of antiplatelet regimens after noncardioembolic stroke or TIA: rationale and design
Authors:   The Cerebrovascular Antiplatelet Trialists' Collaborative Group, Greving Jacoba P. , Diener Hans-Christoph , Csiba László , Hacke Werner , Kappelle L. Jaap , Koudstaal Peter J. , Leys Didier , Mas Jean-Louis , Sacco Ralph L. , Sivenius Juhani , Algra Ale 
Published: August 2015

Background The Cerebrovascular Antiplatelet Trialists’ Collaborative Group was formed to obtain and analyze individual patient data from the major randomized trials of common antiplatelet regimens after cerebral ischemia. Although the risk of stroke can be reduced by antiplatelet drugs, there continues to be uncertainty about the balance of risk and benefits of different antiplatelet regimens for an individual patient. Aims Our aim is to provide clinicians with a thorough evidence-based answer on these therapeutic alternatives. Methods We have identified six large randomized trials and plan to meta-analyze the data on an individual patient level. In total, these trials have enrolled 46 948 patients with cerebral ischemia. Uniquely, the Cerebrovascular Antiplatelet Trialists’ Collaborative Group has secured access to the individual data of all of these trials, with the participation of key investigators and pharmaceutical companies. Our principal objective includes deriving a reliable estimate of the efficacy of different antiplatelet regimens on key outcomes including serious vascular events, major ischemic events, major bleeding, and intracranial hemorrhage. Results We propose to redefine composite outcome events, if necessary, to achieve comparability. Further, we aim to build and validate prognostic models for the risk of major bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage and to build a decision model that may support evidence-based decision making about which antiplatelet regimen would be most effective in different risk groups of patients. Conclusions This paper outlines inclusion criteria, outcome measures, baseline characteristics, and planned statistical analysis.
Statistical Analysis Plan for Evaluating Low- vs. Standard-Dose Alteplase in the Enhanced Control of Hypertension and Thrombolysis Stroke Study (Enchanted)
Authors: Anderson Craig S. , Woodward Mark , Arima Hisatomi , Chen Xiaoying , Lindley Richard I. , Wang Xia , Chalmers John 
Published: August 2015

Background The ENhanced Control of Hypertension And Thrombolysis strokE stuDy trial is a 2 × 2 quasi-factorial active-comparison, prospective, randomized, open, blinded endpoint clinical trial that is evaluating in thrombolysis-eligible acute ischemic stroke patients whether: (1) low-dose (0·6 mg/kg body weight) intravenous alteplase has noninferior efficacy and lower risk of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage compared with standard-dose (0·9 mg/kg body weight) intravenous alteplase; and (2) early intensive blood pressure lowering (systolic target 130–140 mmHg) has superior efficacy and lower risk of any intracerebral hemorrhage compared with guideline-recommended blood pressure control (systolic target <180 mmHg). Objective To outline in detail the predetermined statistical analysis plan for the ‘alteplase dose arm’ of the study. Methods All data collected by participating researchers will be reviewed and formally assessed. Information pertaining to the baseline characteristics of patients, their process of care, and the delivery of treatments will be classified, and for each item, appropriate descriptive statistical analyses are planned with appropriate comparisons made between randomized groups. For the trial outcomes, the most appropriate statistical comparisons to be made between groups are planned and described. Results A statistical analysis plan was developed for the results of the alteplase dose arm of the study that is transparent, available to the public, verifiable, and predetermined before completion of data collection. Conclusions We have developed a predetermined statistical analysis plan for the ENhanced Control of Hypertension And Thrombolysis strokE stuDy alteplase dose arm which is to be followed to avoid analysis bias arising from prior knowledge of the study findings.
Marital rehabilitation after prostate cancer – a matter of intimacy
Authors: Dieperink Karin B. , Mark Karen , Mikkelsen Tina Broby 
Published: August 2015

ABSTRACTProstate cancer is the most frequent male cancer disease in the western world. Sexual dysfunction is common after prostate cancer with radiation therapy and androgen deprivation therapy, but further research is needed to determine the lived experience of couples struggling with sexual dysfunction after treatment. The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experience of men and their partners experiencing sexual side effects after radiation therapy and androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer. In addition, to understand the role of a structured rehabilitation program on the couple's experience. Couples with persistent sexual problems were recruited among patients treated with radiotherapy or/and androgen deprivation therapy. Descriptive statistics were collected including age, race, education and work. Focus groups with each gender were conducted using open ended questions to encourage participants to talk about their experiences. Data were analyzed using Giorgi's phenomenological method. A total of eight couples were recruited, men age 67 years [standard deviation (SD) 6·3], women 65 years (SD 7·2). Results from the focus group interviews regarding marital relations were grouped in three themes: negative impact of sexual dysfunction on the relationship; other physical and psychological consequences of late adverse effects; communication issues and partner feelings of frustration. Results regarding the rehabilitation program were grouped in four themes: importance of peer support; importance of time and space for reflection; improved communication; optimism after rehabilitation. The couples in this study reported that the sexual side effects of prostate cancer treatment impacted their relationship and were problematic for both the men and their partners. The rehabilitation program improved the couples communication concerning sexual intimacy and issues related to prostate cancer treatment. It also offered a chance for peer support from others going through similar experiences and increased hope for navigating through sexual and intimacy issues in the future.
Comparative genomics of the NKG2D ligand gene family
Authors: Kasahara Masanori , Sutoh Yoichi 
Published: August 2015

SummaryNKG2D ligands (NKG2DLs) are a group of stress‐inducible major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I‐like molecules that act as a danger signal alerting the immune system to the presence of abnormal cells. In mammals, two families of NKG2DL genes have been identified: the MIC gene family encoded in the MHC region and the ULBP gene family encoded outside the MHC region in most species. Some mammals have a third family of NKG2DL‐like class I genes which we named MILL (MHC class I‐like located near the leukocyte receptor complex). Despite the fact that MILL genes are more closely related to MIC genes than ULBP genes are to MIC genes, MILL molecules do not function as NKG2DLs, and their function remains unknown. With the progress of mammalian genome projects, information on the MIC, ULBP, and MILL gene families became available in many mammalian species. Here, we summarize such information and discuss the origin and evolution of the NKG2DL gene family from the viewpoint of host–pathogen coevolution.
Co‐evolution with chicken class I genes
Authors: Kaufman Jim 
Published: August 2015

SummaryThe concept of co‐evolution (or co‐adaptation) has a long history, but application at molecular levels (e.g., ‘supergenes’ in genetics) is more recent, with a consensus definition still developing. One interesting example is the chicken major histocompatibility complex (MHC). In contrast to typical mammals that have many class I and class I‐like genes, only two classical class I genes, two CD1 genes and some non‐classical Rfp‐Y genes are known in chicken, and all are found on the microchromosome that bears the MHC. Rarity of recombination between the closely linked and polymorphic genes encoding classical class I and TAPs allows co‐evolution, leading to a single dominantly expressed class I molecule in each MHC haplotype, with strong functional consequences in terms of resistance to infectious pathogens. Chicken tapasin is highly polymorphic, but co‐evolution with TAP and class I genes remains unclear. T‐cell receptors, natural killer (NK) cell receptors, and CD8 co‐receptor genes are found on non‐MHC chromosomes, with some evidence for co‐evolution of surface residues and number of genes along the avian and mammalian lineages. Over even longer periods, co‐evolution has been invoked to explain how the adaptive immune system of jawed vertebrates arose from closely linked receptor, ligand, and antigen‐processing genes in the primordial MHC.
Co‐evolution of MHC class I and variable NK cell receptors in placental mammals
Authors: Guethlein Lisbeth A. , Norman Paul J. , Hilton Hugo G. , Parham Peter 
Published: August 2015

SummaryShaping natural killer (NK) cell functions in human immunity and reproduction are diverse killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIRs) that recognize polymorphic MHC class I determinants. A survey of placental mammals suggests that KIRs serve as variable NK cell receptors only in certain primates and artiodactyls. Divergence of the functional and variable KIRs in primates and artiodactyls predates placental reproduction. Among artiodactyls, cattle but not pigs have diverse KIRs. Catarrhine (humans, apes, and Old World monkeys) and platyrrhine (New World monkeys) primates, but not prosimians, have diverse KIRs. Platyrrhine and catarrhine systems of KIR and MHC class I are highly diverged, but within the catarrhines, a stepwise co‐evolution of MHC class I and KIR is discerned. In Old World monkeys, diversification focuses on MHC‐A and MHC‐B and their cognate lineage II KIR. With evolution of C1‐bearing MHC‐C from MHC‐B, as informed by orangutan, the focus changes to MHC‐C and its cognate lineage III KIR. Evolution of C2 from C1 and fixation of MHC‐C drove further elaboration of MHC‐C‐specific KIR, as exemplified by chimpanzee. In humans, the evolutionary trajectory changes again. Emerging from reorganization of the KIR locus and selective attenuation of KIR avidity for MHC class I are the functionally distinctive KIR A and KIR B haplotypes.
The killer‐cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors of macaques
Authors: Bimber Benjamin N. , Evans David T. 
Published: August 2015

SummaryNatural killer (NK) cells play a central role in immune responses through direct cytotoxicity and the release of cytokines that prime adaptive immunity. In simian primates, NK cell responses are regulated by interactions between two highly polymorphic sets of molecules: the killer‐cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIRs) and their major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I ligands. KIR‐MHC class I interactions in humans have been implicated in the outcome of a number viral diseases and cancers. However, studies to address the role of KIRs in animal models have been limited by the complex immunogenetics and lack of defined ligands for KIRs in non‐human primates. Due to the rapid evolution of KIRs, there is little conservation among the KIR genes of different primate species and it is not possible to predict the specificity of KIRs from known KIR‐MHC class I interactions in humans. Hence, the MHC class I ligands for KIRs in species other than humans are poorly defined. Here, we review the KIR genes of the rhesus macaque, an important animal model for human immunodeficiency virus infection and other infectious diseases, and the MHC class I ligands that have been identified for KIRs in this species.
Influenza‐associated mortality in Thailand, 2006–2011
Authors: Aungkulanon Suchunya , Cheng Po‐Yung , Kusreesakul Khanitta , Bundhamcharoen Kanitta , Chittaganpitch Malinee , Margaret McCarron , Olsen Sonja 
Published: August 2015

BackgroundInfluenza‐associated mortality in subtropical or tropical regions, particularly in developing countries, remains poorly quantified and often underestimated. We analyzed data in Thailand, a middle‐income tropical country with good vital statistics and influenza surveillance data.MethodsWe obtained weekly mortality data for all‐cause and three underlying causes of death (circulatory and respiratory diseases, and pneumonia and influenza), and weekly influenza virus data, from 2006 to 2011. A negative binomial regression model was used to estimate deaths attributable to influenza in two age groups (<65 and ≥65 years) by incorporating influenza viral data as covariates in the model.ResultsFrom 2006 to 2011, the average annual influenza‐associated mortality per 100 000 persons was 4·0 (95% CI: −18 to 26). Eighty‐three percent of influenza‐associated deaths occurred among persons aged > 65 years. The average annual rate of influenza‐associated deaths was 0·7 (95% CI: −8·2 to 10) per 100 000 population for person aged <65 years and 42 (95% CI: −137 to 216) for person aged ≥ 65 years.DiscussionIn Thailand, estimated excess mortality associated with influenza was considerable even during non‐pandemic years. These data provide support for Thailand's seasonal influenza vaccination campaign. Continued monitoring of mortality data is important to assess impact.
Transplantation of placenta‐derived mesenchymal stem cells enhances angiogenesis after ischemic limb injury in mice
Authors: Xie Nanzi , Li Zhihong , Adesanya Timothy M , Guo Weixin , Liu Yang , Fu Minghuan , Kilic Ahmet , Tan Tao , Zhu Hua , Xie Xiaoyun 
Published: August 2015

AbstractMesenchymal stem cell‐based therapy has emerged as a promising approach for the treatment of peripheral arterial disease. The purpose of this study was to examine the potential effects of human placenta‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs) on mouse hindlimb ischemia. PMSCs were isolated from human placenta tissue and characterized by flow cytometry. An in vivo surgical ligation‐induced murine limb ischemia model was generated with fluorescent dye (CM‐DiI) labelled PMSCs delivered via intramuscular injection. Our data show that PMSCs treatment significantly enhanced microvessel density, improved blood perfusion and diminished pathologies in ischemic mouse hindlimbs as compared to those in the control group. Further immunostaining studies suggested that injected PMSCs can incorporate into the vasculature and differentiate into endothelial and smooth muscle cells to enhance angiogenesis in ischemic hind limbs. This may in part explain the beneficial effects of PMSCs treatment. Taken together, we found that PMSCs treatment might be an effective treatment modality for treatment of ischemia‐induced injury to mouse hind limbs by enhancement of angiogenesis.
Invasive surgery reduces infarct size and preserves cardiac function in a porcine model of myocardial infarction
Authors: van Hout Gerardus P.J. , Teuben Michel P.J. , Heeres Marjolein , de Maat Steven , de Jong Renate , Maas Coen , Kouwenberg Lisanne H.J.A. , Koenderman Leo , van Solinge Wouter W. , de Jager Saskia C.A. , Pasterkamp Gerard , Hoefer Imo E. 
Published: August 2015

AbstractReperfusion injury following myocardial infarction (MI) increases infarct size (IS) and deteriorates cardiac function. Cardioprotective strategies in large animal MI models often failed in clinical trials, suggesting translational failure. Experimentally, MI is induced artificially and the effect of the experimental procedures may influence outcome and thus clinical applicability. The aim of this study was to investigate if invasive surgery, as in the common open chest MI model affects IS and cardiac function. Twenty female landrace pigs were subjected to MI by transluminal balloon occlusion. In 10 of 20 pigs, balloon occlusion was preceded by invasive surgery (medial sternotomy). After 72 hrs, pigs were subjected to echocardiography and Evans blue/triphenyl tetrazoliumchloride double staining to determine IS and area at risk. Quantification of IS showed a significant IS reduction in the open chest group compared to the closed chest group (IS versus area at risk: 50.9 ± 5.4% versus 69.9 ± 3.4%, P = 0.007). End systolic LV volume and LV ejection fraction measured by echocardiography at follow‐up differed significantly between both groups (51 ± 5 ml versus 65 ± 3 ml, P = 0.033; 47.5 ± 2.6% versus 38.8 ± 1.2%, P = 0.005). The inflammatory response in the damaged myocardium did not differ between groups. This study indicates that invasive surgery reduces IS and preserves cardiac function in a porcine MI model. Future studies need to elucidate the effect of infarct induction technique on the efficacy of pharmacological therapies in large animal cardioprotection studies.