bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Non‐invasive assessment of liver steatosis in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Kan Hiromi , Kimura Yuki , Hyogo Hideyuki , Fukuhara Takayuki , Fujino Hatsue , Naeshiro Noriaki , Honda Yohji , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Tsuge Masataka , Hiramatsu Akira , Imamura Michio , Kawakami Yoshiiku , Aikata Hiroshi , Ochi Hidenori , Arihiro Koji , Chayama Kazuaki 
Published: March 2014

AimThe diagnosis of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is based on the histological findings. Further, there may be interobserver differences. Liver to spleen (L/S) ratio on computed tomography (CT) is employed to detect or even quantify the fat content of the liver. The objective of this study was to accurately diagnose fatty liver by evaluating the relationship between L/S ratio and histological findings.MethodsSixty‐seven biopsy‐proven NAFLD patients were enrolled. L/S ratio on CT was calculated. The area of steatosis in liver specimens was measured by BIOREVO BZ‐9000 microscope, and the percentage of steatosis was calculated using Dynamic cell count BZ‐H1C software.ResultsSteatotic grade assessed by pathologist was significantly correlated with the percentage of steatosis and L/S ratio. Factors associated with steatosis were L/S ratio, aspartate aminotransferase and Homeostasis Model of Assessment – Insulin Resistance as determined by multivariate analysis. L/S ratios were: S0, 1.16 ± 0.20 (mean ± standard deviation); S1, 0.88 ± 0.28; S2, 0.76 ± 0.20; and S3, 0.40 ± 0.18, respectively. The optimal cut‐off value of L/S ratio to exclude steatosis was 1.1, and the area under the receiver–operator curve for the diagnosis of steatosis was 0.886.ConclusionOur study suggests that while 0% of steatosis showed 1.296 L/S ratio, the cut‐off value of L/S ratio would be 1.1 at least to exclude clinically important liver steatosis.
One‐Year Follow‐Up After Single Procedure Cryoballoon Ablation: A Comparison Between the First and Second Generation Balloon
Authors: GIOVANNI GIACOMO DI , WAUTERS KRISTEL , CHIERCHIA GIAN‐BATTISTA , SIEIRA JUAN , LEVINSTEIN MOISES , CONTE GIULIO , DE ASMUNDIS CARLO , BALTOGIANNIS GIANNIS , SAITOH YUKIO , CICONTE GIUSEPPE , JULIA JUSTO , MUGNAI GIACOMO , IRFAN GHAZALA , BRUGADA PEDRO 
Published: March 2014

A Comparison Between the First and Second Generation BalloonBackgroundWith respect to the first generation Cryoballoon (CB), the second generation (Cryoballoon Advance [CB‐A], Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) was designed with technical modifications resulting in a larger and more uniform zone of freezing on the balloon's surface aiming at procedural outcome improvement in the setting of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. However, a comparison between both technologies on a midterm follow‐up is missing in today's literature.MethodsA total of 100 patients (the last 50 patients with the first generation CB and the first 50 patients with the second generation CB‐A upon its inception in our center) having undergone a single CB ablation for paroxysmal AF (PAF) and having completed a 12‐month follow‐up, were consecutively included in our study. Freedom from AF off‐antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) after a single procedure was 78% (39/50) in CB‐A and 58% (29/50) in the CB group (P = 0.03) during the whole follow‐up duration. Considering a blanking period of 3 months, freedom from AF off‐AAD was achieved in 84% (42/50) in CB‐A, while 66% (33/50) were free from recurrence in the CB group (P = 0.038). Right phrenic nerve palsy (PNP) occurred in 8 patients (16%) in CB‐A group and in 4 patients (8%) in the CB group.ConclusionFreedom from AF on 12 months follow‐up was significantly higher in the CB‐A group with respect to the first generation device. The most frequent complication observed was PNP.
Evaluation of Tomato Processing By‐Products: A Comparative Study in a Pilot Scale Setup
Authors: Sarkar Anwesha , Kaul Purnima 
Published: March 2014

AbstractThis study aims at providing a comparative evaluation of tomato processing by‐products, i.e., seeds and peel. A pilot scale process has been demonstrated for extraction and drying (both freeze and cabinet drying) of tomato seeds and peel. Various aspects of dried tomato seeds such as its protein content, amino acid profile, calculated protein efficiency ratio (PER), presence of antinutritional factors, polyphenol contents and antioxidant activities were evaluated. In this study, the total polyphenol content in the hydrophilic extract as well as antioxidant activities of tomato peel were found to be 66.5 and 38.2% higher, respectively, than that of the tomato seed meal showing importance of the former from a functional point of view. Tomato seed protein isolate (92%) prepared from tomato seed meal had a calculated PER of 2.66. The protein isolate contained all essential amino acids (including lysine), meeting the minimum requirements of reference protein for preschool children aged 1–2 years (WHO/FAO/UNU). The tomato seed protein isolate showed negligible levels of phytate (3.48 μg/g) and trypsin inhibitory activity (2.655 TIU/mg). This study clearly highlights that tomato seed, a by‐product of tomato processing industry, is a rich source of high‐quality plant protein together with intrinsic polyphenols and antioxidant activities, although the functional properties being less dominant than the peel counterpart. Therefore, tomato seed meal with unique protein quality could be regarded as a potential source of protein‐rich adjunct in various food formulations.Practical ApplicationsWith the increased industrial demand of protein sources, there has been an upsurge of research efforts in recent years to extract dietary proteins from plant‐based sources. By‐products of oilseeds, fruits and vegetable‐processing industries can be sustainable low‐cost protein alternatives, which are available at no additional cost and can find commercial valorization in food formulations. As an example, this study identified a pilot plant setup to produce tomato seed protein isolate and investigated protein quality, antinutritional factors as well as compared the polyphenol content and antioxidant activities in the context of its counterpart by‐product tomato peel. This knowledge will facilitate the use of tomato seed protein isolate as a low‐cost protein‐rich adjunct with functional benefits in food formulation. Most importantly, this study highlights that high‐quality plant protein isolates can be recovered from agro‐industrial by‐products, thus adding commercial value to them and allowing their industrial exploitation.
Comparative study of the effect of 50% pyruvic and 30% salicylic peels on the skin lipid film in patients with acne vulgaris
Authors: Marczyk Beata , Mucha Paulina , Budzisz Elżbieta , Rotsztejn Helena 
Published: March 2014

SummaryPyruvic (alfa‐keto acid) and salicylic (beta‐hydroxy acid) acids are superficial peels frequently used in patients with acne vulgaris.AimThe aim of the study was to compare the effect of 50% pyruvic and 30% salicylic peels on facial sebum secretion in patients with acne vulgaris, aged 13–30.Material and methodsThe level of secreted sebum was determined in 20 men and women. Ten patients were treated with 50% pyruvic acid and the remaining 10 with 30% salicylic acid. Each peel was applied five times at 2‐week intervals. The sebum measurements were taken in the T‐ and U‐zones using a Sebumeter SM 815 (Courage & Khazaka, Germany). The last, sixth measurement was taken 2 weeks after the treatment.ResultsA statistically significant decrease in the level of secreted sebum in both U‐ and T‐ zones was observed in the patients studied after the third application of 50% pyruvic peel and the second application of 30% salicylic peel. Two weeks following the completion of therapy, sebumetric measurements demonstrated a greater reduction in the facial skin lipid film among the patients treated with salicylic peel.ConclusionsPeels with 50% pyruvic acid and 30% salicylic acid are the procedures that significantly contributed to a decrease in the level of secreted sebum on the facial skin surface in the group of patients studied. A greater therapeutic effect was observed following 30% salicylic peel, which might be associated with its high lipophilic properties and easier penetration through the lipid barriers of the epidermis.
Marine cosmeceuticals
Authors: Kim Se‐Kwon 
Published: March 2014

SummaryRecently, a great deal of interest has been expressed in the cosmetic industry regarding marine‐derived cosmetic active ingredients due to their numerous beneficial effects on human skin health. Bioactive substances derived from marine resources have diverse functional roles as natural skin care agents, and these properties can be applied to the development of novel cosmetics as well as nutricosmetics (from edible seaweeds and edible marine animals). This contribution focuses on marine‐derived cosmeceutical active ingredients and presents an overview of their health beneficial effects on human skin.
Comparative study of various growth factors and cytokines on type I collagen and hyaluronan production in human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Kim Mi‐Sun , Song Hye Jin , Lee Sang Hwa , Lee Cheon Koo 
Published: March 2014

SummaryBackgroundDermal fibroblast is a primary cell type responsible for synthesis and remodeling of extracellular matrix in human skin. Type I collagen and hyaluronan are main components that have roles in skin fibrosis, wound healing, tissue remodeling as well as skin aging. Several studies have reported cytokine‐dependent changes in collagen expression or hyaluronan production; however, the cytokines’ effect was controversial in human dermal fibroblasts.AimsTo clarify the role of various growth factors, cytokines or chemokines on the production of interstitial type I collagen and hyaluronan in dermal fibroblasts.MethodsWe confirmed the presence of various corresponding receptors and assessed the effects of 33 human recombinants on the production of type I collagen and hyaluronan using the assay system in dermal fibroblasts.ResultsPlatelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐AA, PDGF‐BB, epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1, MCP‐1, IP‐10, interleukin (IL)‐1α, IL‐1β, and IL‐15 were effective on both type I collagen and hyaluronan production, as compared with no stimulated control. On the other hand, IL‐10 and IFN‐ α caused a significant decrease in type I collagen production, and IL‐8 and GM‐CSF caused a decrease in hyaluronan production compared with no cytokine‐treated control. Interestingly, some chemokines, such as MCP‐1 (CCL2), RANTES (CCL5), eotaxin‐2 (CCL24), IP‐10 (CXCL10), or fractalkine (CX3CL1) significantly induced the type I collagen or hyaluronan production.ConclusionsVarious growth factors and cytokines on the regulation of type I collagen and hyaluronan in human dermal skin probably function as key factors in skin remodeling and skin aging. Our profile may help to apply to cosmeceutical area maintaining as young skin through the increase in extracellular matrix.
NUTRITION CARE FOR RENAL TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS: AN EVALUATION OF SERVICE DELIVERY AND OUTCOMES
Authors: Orazio Linda , Chapman Jessica , Isbel Nicole M. , Campbell Katrina L. 
Published: March 2014

SUMMARYBackgroundWeight gain post‐renal transplantation is common. Recommendations from recent guidelines include providing structured nutrition care to target risk factors for chronic disease in the early post‐transplant period.ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the nutrition care provided to renal transplant recipients following implementation of a dietetic model of care and to identify predictors of weight change up to one year post‐transplant.MethodsA retrospective and observational study of one hundred and fifty‐six patients that received a renal transplant from a state‐wide transplant service in Australia between October 2009 and December 2010. Nutrition care provided compared with guideline recommendations within the first three months post‐transplant and weight change at 12 months post‐transplant, significant weight gain equating to >5% pre‐transplant weight.ResultsOnly 35% of patients were provided with nutrition care according to guideline recommendations, were older, and had a higher BMI and diabetes. Significant weight gain was evident for half of the patients evaluated. Thirty‐eight percent of healthy weight patients at transplant became overweight or obese and 23% of overweight patients at baseline became obese at 12 months. After multivariate analysis, time on dialysis was independently associated with weight change at 12 months.ConclusionNutrition care provided did not meet guideline recommendations, highlighting difficulty in implementing evidence to practice. Significant weight gain was evident particularly in patients classified as ‘healthy weight’ at the time of transplant. Long‐term, prospective studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of implementing nutrition care to attenuate weight gain and improve clinical outcomes.
Changes in Sexual Function after Medical or Surgical Termination of Pregnancy
Authors: Morotti Matteo , Calanni Luana , Gianola Gaia , Anserini Paola , Venturini Pier Luigi , Ferrero Simone 
Published: March 2014

Abstract

Introduction
Voluntary termination of pregnancy (TOP) is a social issue; however, even if it is one of the most common procedures performed in the world, few studies evaluated sexual function changes after medical or surgical TOP.

Aim
The aim of this study was to evaluate how first trimester TOP by either surgical (group 1) or medical procedure (group 2) affects sexual function.

Methods
This prospective observational study included 211 patients (132 in group 1 and 79 in group 2) who requested first trimester TOP between September 2010 and May 2012. Medical TOP (mifepristone and misoprostol) was offered to patients up to 49 days of gestation. Surgical TOP was performed up to 12 weeks. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used to evaluate sexual function before TOP, after 1, 3, and 6 months from TOP.

Main Outcome Measures
Changes in the FSFI values and number of sexual active patients after 1, 3, and 6 months from the TOP and the self-reported quality of sexual life at 6 months, with the two different procedures, were the main outcome measures.

Results
At 4-week follow-up, 23.6% of women in group 1 did not resume sexual intercourse compared with 5.4% of women in group 2 (P = 0.003). At 6 months, 3.3% of women in the group 1 and no women in the group 2 did not resume sexual intercourses (P = 0.123). Compared with women in group 2, those in group 1 had lower FSFI score and number of sexual intercourses at 1, 3, and 6 months follow-up (P &lt; 0.001).

Conclusions
This study shows that the number of sexually active women and the overall FSFI are reduced in women undergoing surgical TOP compared with those undergoing medical TOP. Counseling regarding sexual function changes should be included in the discussion of morbidity related to medical or surgical TOP.
Valproic Acid Prevents Penile Fibrosis and Erectile Dysfunction in Cavernous Nerve-Injured Rats
Authors: Hannan Johanna L. , Kutlu Omer , Stopak Bernard L. , Liu Xiaopu , Castiglione Fabio , Hedlund Petter , Burnett Arthur L. , Bivalacqua Trinity J. 
Published: March 2014

Abstract

Introduction
Bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI) causes profound penile changes such as apoptosis and fibrosis leading to erectile dysfunction (ED). Histone deacetylase (HDAC) has been implicated in chronic fibrotic diseases.

Aims
This study will characterize the molecular changes in penile HDAC after BCNI and determine if HDAC inhibition can prevent BCNI-induced ED and penile fibrosis.

Methods
Five groups of rats (8–10 weeks, n = 10/group) were utilized: (i) sham; (ii and iii) BCNI 14 and 30 days following injury; and (iv and v) BCNI treated with HDAC inhibitor valproic acid (VPA 250 mg/kg; 14 and 30 days). All groups underwent cavernous nerve stimulation (CNS) to determine intracavernosal pressure (ICP). Penile HDAC3, HDAC4, fibronectin, and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) protein expression (Western blot) were assessed. Trichrome staining and the fractional area of fibrosis were determined in penes from each group. Cavernous smooth muscle content was assessed by immunofluorescence to alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) antibodies.

Main Outcome Measures
We measured ICP; HDAC3, HDAC4, fibronectin, and TGF-β1 protein expression; penile fibrosis; penile α-SMA content.

Results
There was a voltage-dependent decline (P &lt; 0.05) in ICP to CNS 14 and 30 days after BCNI. Penile HDAC3, HDAC4, and fibronectin were significantly increased (P &lt; 0.05) 14 days after BCNI. There was a slight increase in TGF-β1 protein expression after BCNI. Histological analysis showed increased (P &lt; 0.05) corporal fibrosis after BCNI at both time points. VPA treatment decreased (P &lt; 0.05) penile HDAC3, HDAC4, and fibronectin protein expression as well as corporal fibrosis. There was no change in penile α-SMA between all groups. Furthermore, VPA-treated BCNI rats had improved erectile responses to CNS (P &lt; 0.05).

Conclusion
HDAC-induced pathological signaling in response to BCNI contributes to penile vascular dysfunction. Pharmacological inhibition of HDAC prevents penile fibrosis, normalizes fibronectin expression, and preserves erectile function. The HDAC pathway may represent a suitable target in preventing the progression of ED occurring post-radical prostatectomy.
Effects of potassium iodide in concentrations of TSH, tT3 and tT4 in serum of subjects with sporotrichosis
Authors: Ramírez Soto Max Carlos 
Published: March 2014

SummaryThe saturated potassium iodide solution (SSKI) as treatment for sporotrichosis may cause hypothyroidism by suppressing the synthesis of thyroid hormones (tT3 and tT4) and the iodine excess could lead to thyrotoxicosis. Evaluating the changes in serum levels of TSH, tT3 and tT4 in euthyroid patients with sporotrichosis treated with SSKI. For the selection of euthyroid patients, TSH, tT3 and tT4 concentrations were measured for those adults and children diagnosed with sporotrichosis. Each paediatric patient was administered SSKI orally in increasing doses of 2–20 drops/3 times/day and 4–40 drops/3 times/day in adults. Serum concentrations of TSH, tT3 and tT4 were measured 20 days after started the treatment and 15 days posttreatment. Eight euthyroid patients aged between 2 to 65 years old were included. After 20 days of treatment, two suffered subclinical hypothyroidism, one developed subclinical hyperthyroidism, and one hyperthyroxinaemia euthyroid. At 15 days posttreatment only four patients were evaluated and all serum levels of TSH, tT3 and tT4 were normal. Some euthyroid patients with sporotrichosis can develop hyperthyroidism or subclinical iodine‐induced hypothyroidism, during the administration of 3 or 6 g SSKI/day.
Factors influencing learner satisfaction with team‐based learning among nursing students
Authors: Roh Young Sook , Lee Suk Jeong , Mennenga Heidi 
Published: March 2014

AbstractIn this study, learner satisfaction was described, and factors influencing satisfaction with team‐based learning were identified. This was a cross‐sectional, descriptive survey study. Two separate 2 h team‐based, learning sessions, consisting of preparation, readiness assurance, and application, were given to a cohort of 139 second year nursing students in 2010 and 263 students in 2011, respectively. At the end of the learning sessions, participants completed a self‐administered questionnaire regarding their learning experience. Nursing students were generally satisfied with team‐based learning. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the learning process significantly affected learner satisfaction compared to pre‐assignment, course content, peer evaluation, and team activity. According to these results, team‐based learning facilitators should organize and conduct team‐based learning activities, while also considering instructional design factors, to help students learn effectively.
Gender differences in the relationship between physical functioning and depressive symptoms in low‐income older adults living alone
Authors: Lim Eun Ju 
Published: March 2014

AbstractThis study examined gender differences in the relationship between physical functioning and depressive symptoms in low‐income older adults living alone in Korea, and the variables influencing these symptoms. Data from a total of 317 older adults in the 2011 Korean National Survey were used. Upper limb mobility, lower limb mobility, activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, and depressive symptoms were measured. Data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis. Low‐income older men and women living alone experienced depressive symptoms. Regression analysis showed that lower limb mobility and age together explained 35.4% of the variance in depressive symptoms in men. Subjective health status explained 16.7% of the same in women. These findings suggest that low‐income older adults living alone should be carefully monitored by public healthcare managers to improve their physical and mental health, considering gender‐specific elements.
Korean hospice nursing interventions using the Nursing Interventions Classification system: A comparison with the USA
Authors: Hong Sung‐Jung , Lee Eunjoo 
Published: March 2014

AbstractIn this study, nursing interventions used by hospice nurses in Korea were identified and compared with core interventions selected by US end‐of‐life care nurses in order to determine similarities and differences between the two nations regarding such care. Data were collected from the electronic medical records of 353 hospice patients admitted to a tertiary hospital in Korea over a period of two years. First, extracted narrative interventions were mapped onto the Nursing Interventions Classification for comparison with interventions selected by nurses in the USA. A total of 56,712 intervention statements were mapped onto 147 Nursing Interventions Classification interventions. Hospice nurses in Korea performed more nursing interventions in the physiological basic domain, compared to nurses in the USA. The most frequently‐used interventions in Korea were related to patient pain management. Among 47 core Nursing Interventions Classification interventions used in the USA, only 18 were used by Korean nurses in this study. This study highlights cultural differences in hospice care nursing interventions between the two countries.
Israeli Arab Muslim women's willingness to be screened for intimate partner violence: A survey
Authors: Ben Natan Merav , Muasi Hiba , Farhan Fidaa , Shhada Miada , Masarwa Gada 
Published: March 2014

AbstractIn the present study, we explored whether the research model based on the Theory of Reasoned Action predicts Israeli Arab Muslim women's willingness to be screened for intimate partner violence at healthcare facilities. Three hundred women completed a questionnaire. Most women (68.4%) expressed willingness to be screened, however, only 16% of them had been screened over the past year. Women's beliefs about screening for intimate partner violence and the support of significant others were found to predict this willingness. The study may constitute an initial foundation for determining national policy with the aim of detecting and eradicating the phenomenon among this unique population.