bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Increases Gait Speed in Patients With Chronic Lung Diseases
Authors: McClellan Ryan , Amiri Hoda Mojazi , Limsuwat Chok , Nugent Kenneth M. 
Published: August 2014

Introduction: Gait speed provides an integrated index of physical performance; changes in gait speed could reflect deterioration in the underlying medical disorder or a response to medical/surgical interventions. Slower gait speeds reflect the overall level of impairment, especially in patients with chronic lung disease. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical files of 119 patients who completed the pulmonary rehabilitation program at the University Medical Center in Lubbock, Texas, and collected demographic, pulmonary function, and 6-minute walk test information. Gait speed was calculated using the 6-minute walk test information. Results: The patients in this study had a mean age of 68.8 ± 10.1 years. Most patients (95) had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease/asthma. The mean forced expiratory volume in the first second of expiration (FEV1) was 1.3 ± 0.7 L (47.2% ± 19.7% predicted). The baseline gait speed was 41 ± 15 m/min before rehabilitation and 47 ± 15 m/min after rehabilitation. Baseline gait speed, body mass index, and FEV1 predicted postrehabilitation gait speed ( P < .05 for each variable). Ten patients had a gait speed >60 m/min before rehabilitation; this number increased to 29 postrehabilitation. Using multivariable analysis, it was found that only the baseline gait speed predicted a speed of more than 60 m/min postrehabilitation. Seventy-four patients had an increase in 6-minute walk distance of greater than 30 m. Conclusions: Patients with chronic lung diseases have slow gait speeds. Most patients improve their speed with rehabilitation but do not increase their speed above 60 m/min and remain frail by this criterion. However, the majority of patients increase their walk distance by 30 m, a distance that represents a minimal clinically important distance.
The Association of Patient Chronic Disease Burden and Self-Management Requirements With Shared Decision Making in Primary Care Visits
Authors: Peek Monica E. , Drum Melinda , Cooper Lisa A. 
Published: August 2014

Background: Shared decision making (SDM) is associated with positive health outcomes and may be particularly relevant for patients with chronic disease. Objectives: To investigate whether (1) patients with chronic diseases, particularly those requiring self-management, are more likely to engage in SDM behaviors than patients without chronic diseases and (2) patients with chronic diseases are more likely to have their physicians engage them in SDM. Design: A cross-sectional study of patients who were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial to improve patient–physician communication. Participants: Adult patients with hypertension at community health clinics in Baltimore, Maryland. Approach: We used multivariable regression models to examine the associations of the following predictor variables: (1) chronic disease burden and (2) diseases requiring self-management with the following outcome variables measuring SDM components: (1) patient information sharing, (2) patient decision making, and (3) physician SDM facilitation. Key Results: Patients with greater chronic disease burden and more diseases requiring self-management reported more information sharing (β = .07, P = .03 and β = .12, P = .046, respectively) and decision making (β = .06, P = .02 and β = .21, P < .001) as did patients who reported poor general health. Physician facilitation of SDM was not associated with chronic disease burden or with diseases requiring self-management but was associated with higher patient income. Conclusions: Patients with chronic diseases, particularly those requiring self-management, may be more likely to engage in SDM behaviors, but physicians may not be more likely to engage such patients in SDM. Targeting patients with chronic disease for SDM may improve health outcomes among the chronically ill, particularly among vulnerable patients (eg, minorities, low-income patients) who suffer disproportionately from such conditions.
Effect of the antihepcidin Spiegelmer lexaptepid on inflammation-induced decrease in serum iron in humans
Authors: van Eijk Lucas T. , John Aaron S. E. , Schwoebel Frank , Summo Luciana , Vauléon Stéphanie , Zöllner Stefan , Laarakkers Coby M. , Kox Matthijs , van der Hoeven Johannes G. , Swinkels Dorine W. , Riecke Kai , Pickkers Peter 
Published: August 2014

Key Points
Lexaptepid modulates the inflammation-induced decrease in serum iron during experimental human endotoxemia. Hepcidin targeting with the novel compound lexaptepid may be a viable approach to the treatment of anemia of inflammation in humans.
Impact of induction regimen and stem cell transplantation on outcomes in double-hit lymphoma: a multicenter retrospective analysis
Authors: Petrich Adam M. , Gandhi Mitul , Jovanovic Borko , Castillo Jorge J. , Rajguru Saurabh , Yang David T. , Shah Khushboo A. , Whyman Jeremy D. , Lansigan Frederick , Hernandez-Ilizaliturri Francisco J. , Lee Lisa X. , Barta Stefan K. , Melinamani Shruthi , Karmali Reem , Adeimy Camille , Smith Scott , Dalal Neil , Nabhan Chadi , Peace David , Vose Julie , Evens Andrew M. , Shah Namrata , Fenske Timothy S. , Zelenetz Andrew D. , Landsburg Daniel J. , Howlett Christina , Mato Anthony , Jaglal Michael , Chavez Julio C. , Tsai Judy P. , Reddy Nishitha , Li Shaoying , Handler Caitlin , Flowers Christopher R. , Cohen Jonathon B. , Blum Kristie A. , Song Kevin , Sun Haowei (Linda) , Press Oliver , Cassaday Ryan , Jaso Jesse , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Sohani Aliyah R. , Abramson Jeremy S. 
Published: August 2014

Key Points
A subset of DHL patients may be cured, and some patients may benefit from intensive induction. Further investigations into the roles of SCT and novel agents are needed.
A cross-sectional pilot study assessing needs and attitudes to implementation of Information and Communication Technology for rational use of medicines among healthcare staff in rural Tanzania
Authors: Nilseng Jessica , Gustafsson Lars L , Nungu Amos , Bastholm-Rahmner Pia , Mazali Dennis , Pehrson Björn , Eriksen Jaran 
Published: August 2014

Abstract

Background
In resource-poor countries access to essential medicines, suboptimal prescribing and use of medicines are major problems. Health workers lack updated medical information and treatment support. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) could help tackle this. The impact of ICT on health systems in resource-poor countries is likely to be significant and transform the practice of medicine just as in high-income countries. However, research for finding the best way of doing this is needed. We aimed to assess current approaches to and use of ICT among health workers in two rural districts of Tanzania in relation to the current drug distribution practices, drug stock and continuing medical information (CME), as well as assessing the feasibility of using ICT to improve ordering and use of medicines.

Methods
This pilot study was conducted in 2010–2011, mapping the drug distribution chain in Tanzania, including problems and barriers. The study was conducted in Bunda and Serengeti districts, both part of the ICT4RD (ICT for rural development) project. Health workers involved in drug procurement and use at 13 health facilities were interviewed on use and knowledge of ICT, and their attitudes to its use in their daily work. They were also shown and interviewed about their thoughts on an android tablet application prototype for drug stock inventory and drug ordering, based on the Tanzanian Medical Stores Department (MSD) current paper forms.

Results
The main challenge was a stable supply of essential medicines. Drug supplies were often delayed and incomplete, resulting in stock-outs. All 20 interviewed health workers used mobile phones, 8 of them Smartphones with Internet connection. The Health workers were very positive to the tablet application and saw its potential in reducing drug stock-outs. They also expressed a great need and wish for CME by distance.

Conclusion
The tablet application was easily used and appreciated by health workers, and thus has the potential to save time and effort, reduce transportation costs and minimise drug stock-outs. Furthermore, the android tablet could be used to reach out with CME programs to health care workers at remote health facilities, as well as those in towns.
The diabetes-obesity-hypertension nexus in Qatar: evidence from the World Health Survey
Authors: Ali Faleh Mohamed Hussain , Nikoloski Zlatko , Reka Husein , Gjebrea Orsida , Mossialos Elias 
Published: August 2014

Abstract

Background
As countries develop economically, an “epidemiological transition” occurs whereby a set of chronic diseases increasingly becomes a country’s health challenge. Against this background, this paper examines the most common conditions associated with the prevalence of diabetes in Qatar, with a specific focus on the diabetes-obesity-hypertension nexus.

Methods
We analyzed data from the World Health Organization’s World Health Survey conducted in the State of Qatar in 2006. The survey included demographic, anthropometric, and blood chemistry measurements. Using multivariate logistical regression analysis, we assessed the most common conditions associated with diabetes, using both objective and subjective measures of diabetes. The objective measures relied on random blood sugar tests, and the subjective measure included respondents who affirmatively answered the question on diabetes diagnosis. We repeated our analysis on respondents who had blood glucose levels high enough to be considered diabetic/glucose intolerant but did not answer affirmatively on the question of diabetes diagnosis.

Results
When using the objective measure of diabetes, the following conditions appeared significant: obesity (OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.2 – 1.9), higher income (OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.0 – 1.9), high cholesterol (OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.0 – 1.9), having Qatari origin (OR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.0 – 1.7), and increasing systolic blood pressure (SBP) 120–139 mmHg (OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.2 – 2.0), SBP 140–159 mmHg (OR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.6 – 3.1), SBP > 160 mmHg (OR = 3.2, 95% CI = 2.0 – 5.3). Similar results were obtained using the subjective measure of diabetes as a dependent variable. When applied to the group of respondents that included pre-diabetics and those who did not know they were diabetic, obesity and hypertension appeared as the only statistically significant explanatory variables.

Conclusion
High prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and especially obesity is documented among residents of Qatar. Further steps are required to tackle the most common conditions associated with the rising diabetes epidemic in the country, which might also pose significant fiscal challenges in the future.
Genetic mapping of fiber color genes on two brown cotton cultivars in Xinjiang
Authors: Wang Lixiang , Liu Haifeng , Li Xueyuan , Xiao Xiangwen , Ai Xiantao , Luo Cheng , Zhu Lihuang , Li Xiaobo 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
In the present study, genetic linkage analysis was carried out to map the fiber color loci Lc

1
and Lc

2
on two brown cotton cultivars with SSR and EST-SSR markers in the reference map by F2 segregation populations. The Lc

1
locus carried by Xincaimian6 (Gossypium hirsutum L.) was flanked by the marker NAU2862 and NAU1043 on the long arm of Chromosome 07, with genetic distance 7.8 cM and 3.8 cM, respectively. The Lc

2
carried by Xincaimian 5 (Gossypium hirsutum L.) was flanked by the marker NAU5433 and NAU2968 on the short arm of Chromosome 06, with genetic distance 4.4 cM and 7.4 cM respectively. Moreover, the marker NAU3735 and marker NAU5434 co-segregated with the Lc

1
and the Lc

2
locus, respectively. The results of marker association studies with these two loci provides the basic information for the final isolation of these important genes in colored cotton, and these linkage markers also could facilitate application of marker assisted selection in the future.
Evaluation of different approaches to individual tree growth and survival modelling using data collected at irregular intervals – a case study for Pinus patula in Kenya
Authors: Juma Rita , Pukkala Timo , de-Miguel Sergio , Muchiri Mbae 
Published: August 2014

Abstract

Background
The minimum set of sub-models for simulating stand dynamics on an individual-tree basis consists of tree-level models for diameter increment and survival. Ingrowth model is a necessary third component in uneven-aged management. The development of this type of model set needs data from permanent plots, in which all trees have been numbered and measured at regular intervals for diameter and survival. New trees passing the ingrowth limit should also be numbered and measured. Unfortunately, few datasets meet all these requirements. The trees may not have numbers or the length of the measurement interval varies. Ingrowth trees may not have been measured, or the number tags may have disappeared causing errors in tree identification.

Methods
This article discussed and demonstrated the use of an optimization-based approach to individual-tree growth modelling, which makes it possible to utilize data sets having one or several of the above deficiencies. The idea is to estimate all parameters of the sub-models of a growth simulator simultaneously in such a way that, when simulation begins from the diameter distribution at the first measurement occasion, it yields a similar ending diameter distribution as measured in the second measurement occasion. The method was applied to Pinus patula permanent sample plot data from Kenya. In this dataset, trees were correctly numbered and identified but measurement interval varied from 1 to 13 years. Two simple regression approaches were used and compared to the optimization-based model recovery approach.

Results
The optimization-based approach resulted in far more accurate simulations of stand basal area and number of surviving trees than the equations fitted through regression analysis.

Conclusions
The optimization-based modelling approach can be recommended for growth modelling when the modelling data have been collected at irregular measurement intervals.
The transfer of two rare monotypic genera, Neoeplingia and Chaunostoma, to Lepechinia (Lamiaceae), and notes on their conservation
Authors: Drew Bryan T. , Cacho N. Ivalú , Sytsma Kenneth J. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractWe present an updated circumscription of Lepechinia (Lamiaceae) based on molecular phylogenetic analyses of chloroplast, nuclear ribosomal, and low–copy nuclear genes. In particular, the relationships between Lepechinia mexicana, Neoeplingia leucophylloides, and Chaunostoma mecistandrum, which range from central Mexico down to northern Central America, are explored in detail. We provide strong evidence for recent hybridization/introgression, and not incomplete lineage sorting, between adjacent populations of Lepechinia mexicana and Neoeplingia leucophylloides. The molecular data demonstrate that Neoeplingia leucophylloides and Chaunostoma mecistandrum, two species from monotypic genera with extremely narrow distributions, are embedded within Lepechinia. We formally rename the first as Lepechinia leucophylloides; the latter was previously renamed as Lepechinia mecistandrum. Both of these new Lepechinia species are exceedingly rare and worthy of protection.
Using the Core Concepts Framework to Understand Three Generations of Inclusive Practices
Authors: Shogren Karrie A. , Wehmeyer Michael L. 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
This article analyzes the relationship between the core concepts of disability policy and the three generations of inclusive practices. Specifically, we review the three generations of inclusive practice, highlighting the core concepts that have been most strongly emphasized during each generation of inclusive practices. Because we are early in the third generation of inclusive practices, we conclude by examining how the core concepts can guide and direct third generation inclusive practices and how future research, policy, and practice can actualize the aspirational values of all of the core concepts to enable desired outcomes.
Optimale und recheneffiziente Sensorplatzierung in Kühlöfen
Authors: Salzig Christian , Wirsen Andreas , Wallat Wolfgang 
Published: August 2014

Zusammenfassung
Um bei der Glasherstellung qualitativ hochwertige Produkte zu erhalten, muss eine genaue Temperaturregelung beim Abkühlprozess des heißen Glases sichergestellt sein.
Temperatursensoren müssen dazu so positioniert werden, dass sie den maximalen Ertrag an Systeminformation liefern.
Wir zeigen, wie man diesen Informationsgehalt bestimmt und präsentieren einen effizienten Algorithmus für die optimale Sensorplatzierung.
Asphalt Image Miner: Ein Werkzeug zur automatischen Quantifizierung der Gesteinskörnungen in Asphaltproben
Authors: Reischl Markus , Wittenberg Anne , Karcher Carsten , Mikut Ralf 
Published: August 2014

Zusammenfassung
Der Beitrag beschreibt eine MATLAB-Toolbox zur Segmentierung der Gesteinskörnungen in Asphalt-Probekörpern und deren Kopplung an die Data-Mining-Toolbox Gait-CAD. Auf der Basis von einfachen Kameraaufnahmen mit eingebrachtem Maßstab wird ein Algorithmus vorgestellt, der Gesteinskörnungen robust erkennt und in vorgegebene Kornklassen einteilt. Innerhalb einer grafischen Benutzerschnittstelle kann der Anwender die Prozessierung durch Standardelemente (Menüeinträge, Check-Boxen etc.) steuern und grundlegende Parameter anpassen. Alle Gesteinskörnungen werden dann in einen Merkmalsraum überführt und können mit der Data-Mining-Toolbox Gait-CAD prozessiert werden.
Cysteine cathepsins and cystatins: from ancillary tasks to prominent status in lung diseases
Authors: Lalmanach Gilles , Saidi Ahlame , Marchand-Adam Sylvain , Lecaille Fabien , Kasabova Mariana 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Human cysteine cathepsins (family C1, clan CA) have long been regarded as ubiquitous household enzymes, primarily involved in the recycling and degradation of proteins in lysosomes. This opinion has changed considerably during recent decades, however, with the demonstration of their involvement in various physiological processes. A growing body of evidence supports the theory that cathepsins play specific functions in lung homeostasis and pathophysiological events such as asthma, lung fibrosis (including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (embracing emphysema and chronic bronchitis), silicosis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia or tumor invasion. The objective of this review is to provide an update on the current knowledge of the role of these enzymes in the lung. Particular attention has been paid to the understanding of the role of these proteases and their natural inhibitors, cystatins (family I25, clan IH), in TGF-β1-driven fibrotic processes with an emphasis on lung fibrosis.
Complex and irregular heart rate dynamics in fetuses compromised by maternal anemia as a high-risk pregnancy
Authors: Park Young-Sun , Hoh Jeong-Kyu 
Published: August 2014

Abstract

Aim: To examine how complex and irregular fetal heart rate (FHR) dynamics differ between fetuses of normal pregnancies and those of pregnancies complicated by maternal anemia (MA), and to place this in the context of high-risk pregnancies.

Methods: Our study population consisted of 97 pregnant women affected by MA, 118 affected by pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), 88 affected by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), 53 with preterm premature rupture of membranes (pPROM), and 356 normal pregnancies as controls. We calculated approximate entropy (ApEn), sample entropy (SampEn), and correlation dimension (CD) to quantify irregularity and the chaotic dynamics of each FHR time series.

Results: The ApEn in the fetuses of the MA and PIH groups was significantly lower than that of the normal controls (P<0.05). The SampEn was significantly lower in the high-risk groups, except for the pPROM group, than in the normal controls (P<0.05). The CD in the PIH and severe MA groups was significantly lower than that of the normal controls (P<0.05, respectively). In the MA group, the dynamic indices showed a highly significant positive correlation with hemoglobin (Hb) levels (P<0.0001).

Conclusion: The decreased complexity and/or irregularity in the FHR from pregnancies with MA may reflect abnormalities in the complex, integrated cardiovascular control. The irregularity and complexity of the FHR increased together with Hb levels in pregnancies with MA. Our data suggest that the integrity of the nervous system in the fetuses compromised by severe MA might result directly in adverse outcomes.
A Comparative Assessment of the Hardness of Nano-Structured Bainitic Steel Affected by Using Various Quenchants
Authors: Polishetty Ashwin , Sonavane Chinmay , Littlefair Guy 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Quenching, in heat treatment, plays a vital role in controlling material properties. It is the most important step in manipulating the strength of steel. It involves cooling the material from the austenitizing temperature at different cooling rates using variations in quenchants to obtain corresponding material properties. The commonly used quenchants are water, oil, and brine. The cooling rate is the rate at which heat is ejected from the material by the quenchant. The effectiveness of the quenchant is judged by its ability to absorb heat from the material and thermally conduct. Because of stringent regulations regarding use and disposal, there is a need to develop new, environmentally friendly quenchants. The experimental design in this study consisted of quenching austenitized nano-structured bainitic steel in four different quenchants, namely, water, oil, brine, and 1 m sodium carbonate solution. This research gives the insight of substituting conventional quenchants with 1 m sodium carbonate solution. The final four samples were characterized using metallography. A comparative study of the hardness of nano-structured bainitic steel quenched in the newly developed quenchant (i.e., 1 m sodium carbonate solution) and of steel quenched with the conventional one is done. All the results are tabulated, and the applicability of the quenchants is discussed.
Hypogonadism as an additional indication for bariatric surgery in male morbid obesity?
Authors: Samavat Jinous , Facchiano Enrico , Lucchese Marcello , Forti Gianni , Mannucci Edoardo , Maggi Mario , Luconi Michaela 
Published: August 2014

ObjectiveMale obesity is often associated with reduced levels of circulating total (TT) and calculated free testosterone (cFT), with normal/reduced gonadotropins. Bariatric surgery often improves sex steroid and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of bariatric surgery on waist circumference (WC) and BMI, and on TT levels, in morbidly obese men, stratified, according to the gonadal state, in eugonadal and hypogonadal (TT<8 nmol/l) subjects.DesignA cohort of morbidly obese patients (29 with hypogonadism (HG) and 26 without) undergoing bariatric surgery (37, 10, 6, and 2, with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, biliopancreatic diversion and gastric sleeve, respectively) was studied at 6 and 12 months from the operation.MethodsAnthropometric parameters (weight, BMI, WC) and sex hormones (gonadotropins, TT, cFT, estradiol (E2), SHBG) were assessed.ResultsWC was the only parameter significantly correlated with androgens, but not with E2, SHBG, and gonadotropins, at baseline. After surgery, a significant increase in TT, cFT, and SHBG, accompanied by a decrease in E2, was evident in the two groups. However, both TT and cFT, but not E2, SHBG, and gonadotropin variations, were significantly higher in the hypogonadal group at follow-up, with an overall 93% complete recovery from HG. Reduction in WC, but not BMI, was significantly greater in hypogonadal men (ΔWC=−29.4±21.6 vs −14.4±17.4 at 12 months, P=0.047).ConclusionsRecovery from obesity-associated HG is one of the beneficial effects of bariatric surgery in morbidly obese men. The present findings suggest that the gonadal state is a predictor of WC decrease after bariatric surgery.