bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Advancing the science of organ donor management
Authors: Dhanani Sonny , Shemie Sam D 
Published: November 2014

AbstractThere is an increasing burden of responsibility for intensivists to optimize donation potential after the declaration of brain death in patients with catastrophic brain injury. Best practice for donor management, if present, has been formed on low quality and mainly observational studies or consensus. In particular, research into the use of corticosteroids has shown varied benefit. The specific and limited results of the CORTICOME study are less important than the systematic methodology and the development of rigour in the study of deceased organ donation. Donor management would benefit from continued systematic analysis of current literature, understanding of the physiologic basis for therapy, and further prospective controlled trials. Worldwide collaboration partnerships and funding are needed to optimize the management of deceased organ donation.
Fluid balance, intradialytic hypotension, and outcomes in critically ill patients undergoing renal replacement therapy: a cohort study
Authors: Silversides Jonathan A , Pinto Ruxandra , Kuint Rottem , Wald Ron , Hladunewich Michelle A , Lapinsky Stephen E , Adhikari Neill KJ 
Published: November 2014

Abstract
Introduction
In this cohort study, we explored the relationship between fluid balance, intradialytic hypotension and outcomes in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) who received renal replacement therapy (RRT).

Methods
We analysed prospectively collected registry data on patients older than 16 years who received RRT for at least two days in an intensive care unit at two university-affiliated hospitals. We used multivariable logistic regression to determine the relationship between mean daily fluid balance and intradialytic hypotension, both over seven days following RRT initiation, and the outcomes of hospital mortality and RRT dependence in survivors.

Results
In total, 492 patients were included (299 male (60.8%), mean (standard deviation (SD)) age 62.9 (16.3) years); 251 (51.0%) died in hospital. Independent risk factors for mortality were mean daily fluid balance (odds ratio (OR) 1.36 per 1000 mL positive (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.18 to 1.57), intradialytic hypotension (OR 1.14 per 10% increase in days with intradialytic hypotension (95% CI 1.06 to 1.23)), age (OR 1.15 per five-year increase (95% CI 1.07 to 1.25)), maximum sequential organ failure assessment score on days 1 to 7 (OR 1.21 (95% CI 1.13 to 1.29)), and Charlson comorbidity index (OR 1.28 (95% CI 1.14 to 1.44)); higher baseline creatinine (OR 0.98 per 10 μmol/L (95% CI 0.97 to 0.996)) was associated with lower risk of death. Of 241 hospital survivors, 61 (25.3%) were RRT dependent at discharge. The only independent risk factor for RRT dependence was pre-existing heart failure (OR 3.13 (95% CI 1.46 to 6.74)). Neither mean daily fluid balance nor intradialytic hypotension was associated with RRT dependence in survivors. Associations between these exposures and mortality were similar in sensitivity analyses accounting for immortal time bias and dichotomising mean daily fluid balance as positive or negative. In the subgroup of patients with data on pre-RRT fluid balance, fluid overload at RRT initiation did not modify the association of mean daily fluid balance with mortality.

Conclusions
In this cohort of patients with AKI requiring RRT, a more positive mean daily fluid balance and intradialytic hypotension were associated with hospital mortality but not with RRT dependence at hospital discharge in survivors.
Early identification of patients at risk of long-term critical illness-associated physical disability: is it possible?
Authors: Corner Evelyn J , Brett Stephen J 
Published: November 2014

AbstractICU-acquired weakness can hinder and determine the course of recovery from critical illness, leading to life-changing disability. Risk factors include multiorgan failure and prolonged bed rest; however, no prognostic model or screening tool for new-onset disability has been established to date. With no way of targeting the at-risk population, it is difficult to demonstrate the benefit of rehabilitation interventions in research and prioritize resources clinically. In a recent issue of Critical Care, Schandl and colleagues aimed to establish a predictive screening tool for new-onset disability using 23 possible predictors. They found that using the following risk factors – low educational level, fractures, reduced core stability and length of ICU stay over 2 days – they were able to develop a risk score predictive of disability at 2 months after hospital discharge. These investigators propose that this will help to identify patients requiring follow-up and may increase the power to detect change in interventional studies. Whilst this is promising work, further validation is essential: firstly, to make it a clinically workable tool in terms of appropriate `cut offs’; secondly, to ensure that it is transferable in different socio-economic environments; and finally, to make sure that those identified as `at risk’ are those that would benefit the most from targeted intervention.
The relationship between bone health and plasma zinc, copper lead and cadmium concentration in osteoporotic women
Authors: Sadeghi Naficeh , Oveisi Mohammad Reza , Jannat Behrooz , Hajimahmoodi Mannan , Behzad Masoomeh , Behfar Abdolazim , Sadeghi Fatemeh , Saadatmand Sahereh 
Published: November 2014

Abstract
Osteoporosis is a multi factorial disease with dimension of genetic and nutritional considerations. The aim of this study was to present data from the association of plasma zinc, copper and toxic elements of lead and cadmium levels with bone mineral density in Iranian women. 135 women gave their information and enrolled. Fasting plasma was used for measurement of trace elements and heavy metals by Differential Pulse Anodic Stripping Voltammetry. Control group (n = 51) were normal in both lumbar spine (L1-L4) and femoral neck density (T-score ≥ -1), but just femoral neck T-score was considered as criterion in selection of patient group (n = 49, Tscore < -1). No differences were found in the nutritional status, number of diseases, drugs and functional activities between these groups. Plasma Zn, Cu, Pb, Cd levels were analyzed by, a method of voltammetry. Mean ± SD levels of copper and zinc was 1.168 ± 0.115, 1.097 ± 0.091 μg/ml in control group, 1.394 ± 0.133, 1.266 ± 0.11 μg/ml in total patient (TP) and 1.237 ± 0.182, 1.127 ± 0.176 μg/ml in Mild patients(-1 > T-score > -1.7), 1.463 ± 0.174, 1.327 ± 0.147 μg/ml in Severe patient group (T-score < -1.7); respectively. Mean ± SD plasma level of lead and cadmium was 168.42 ± 9.61 ng/l, 2.91 ± 0.18 ng/ml in control group, 176.13 ± 8.64 ng/l, 2.97 ± 0.21 ng/ml in TP, 176.43 ± 13.2 ng/l, 2.99 ± 0.1 ng/ml in mild patients, 221.44 ± 20 ng/l and 3.80 ± 0.70 ng/ml in severe patient group, respectively. In this study plasma zinc, copper, lead & cadmium concentrations were higher in the patients than in the control, though differences were not significant. However, differences were higher between the controls and patients with severe disease (T-score < -1.7). In addition adjusted T-score of femur with age and BMI showed negative significant correlation with plasma levels of zinc and lead in total participants (p < 0.05, r = -0.201, p = 0.044, r = -0.201). It seems that more extensive study with larger ample size might supply definite results about this association for copper and cadmium.
Canadian Chronic Kidney Disease Clinics: A National Survey of Structure, Function and Models of Care
Authors: Levin Adeera , Steven Soroka , Selina Allu , Flora Au , Sarah Gil , Braden Manns 
Published: November 2014

Background: The goals of care for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are to delay progression to end stage renal disease, reduce complications, and to ensure timely transition to dialysis or transplantation, while optimizing independence. Recent guidelines recommend that multidisciplinary team based care should be available to patients with CKD. While most provinces fund CKD care, the specific models by which these outcomes are achieved are not known. Funding for clinics is hospital or program based. Objectives: To describe the structure and function of clinics in order to understand the current models of care, inform best practice and potentially standardize models of care. Design: Prospective cross sectional observational survey study. Setting, Patients/Participants: Canadian nephrology programs in all provinces. Methods and Measurements: Using an open-ended semi-structured questionnaire, we surveyed 71 of 84 multidisciplinary adult CKD clinics across Canada, by telephone and with written semi-structured questionnaires; (June 2012 to November 2013). Standardized introductory scripts were used, in both English and French. Results: CKD clinic structure and models of care vary significantly across Canada. Large variation exists in staffing ratios (Nephrologist, dieticians, pharmacists and nurses to patients), and in referral criteria. Dialysis initiation decisions were usually made by MDs. The majority of clinics (57%) had a consistent model of care (the same Nephrologist and nurse per patient), while others had patients seeing a different nephrologist and nurses at each clinic visit. Targets for various modality choices varied, as did access to those modalities. No patient or provider educational tools describing the optimal time to start dialysis exist in any of the clinics. Limitations: The surveys rely on self reporting without validation from independent sources, and there was limited involvement of Quebec clinics. These are relative limitations and do not affect the main results. Conclusions: The variability in clinic structure and function offers an opportunity to explore the relationship of these elements to patient outcomes, and to determine optimal models of care. This list of contacts generated through this study, serves as a basis for establishing a CKD clinic network. This network is anticipated to facilitate the conduct of clinical trials to test novel interventions or strategies within the context of well characterized models of care.
First-in-Human Phase I Study of the Liposomal RNA Interference Therapeutic Atu027 in Patients With Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Schultheis Beate , Strumberg Dirk , Santel Ansgar , Vank Christiane , Gebhardt Frank , Keil Oliver , Lange Christian , Giese Klaus , Kaufmann Jörg , Khan Michael , Drevs Joachim 
Published: November 2014

Purpose Atu027 is a novel liposomal RNA interference therapeutic that includes a short-interfering RNA (siRNA), which silences expression of protein kinase N3 in the vascular endothelium. Atu027 has previously been shown to inhibit local tumor invasion as well as lymph node and pulmonary metastasis in mouse cancer models. This first-in-human study aimed to assess the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of Atu027 while evaluating therapeutic effects on both primary tumors and metastatic lesions. Patients and Methods Thirty-four patients with advanced solid tumors received 10 escalating doses of Atu027 without premedication, as one single followed by eight intravenous infusions twice per week during a 28-day cycle. Response was monitored by computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging at baseline, at the end of treatment (EoT), and at final follow-up (EoS), and was assessed according to RECIST. Results Atu027 was well tolerated up to dose levels of 0.336 mg/kg; most adverse events (AEs) were low-grade toxicities (grade 1 or 2). No maximum tolerated dose was reached. Plasma levels of siRNA strands and lipids were dose proportional, peaking during 4-hour infusion. Disease stabilization was achieved in 41% of patients at EoT (n = 14 of 34 treated patients); eight patients had stable disease at EoS, and some experienced complete or partial regression of metastases. sFLT1 (soluble variant of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1) decreased from pretreatment levels in most patients after dose levels 04 to 10. Conclusion Atu027 was safe in patients with advanced solid tumors, with 41% of patients having stable disease for at least 8 weeks. In view of these results, further clinical trials have been initiated, and sFLT1 will be investigated as a potential biomarker.
Apolipoprotein C-III's role in cardiovascular diseases, a short review
Authors: Emilian Olteanu G. 
Published: November 2014

Abstract
In this short review I show the important role played by ApoC-III in the lipid dysregulation present in the majority of cardiovascular diseases. With an emphasis on the mutations present in a minority of individuals that confer protection. With this in mind I state that Apoc-III should be considered a valid target for pharmaceutical intervention and cardiovascular disease control and progression.
Clinical laboratories: production industry or medical services?
Authors: Plebani Mario 
Published: November 2014

AbstractThe current failure to evidence any link between laboratory tests, clinical decision-making and patient outcomes, and the scarcity of financial resources affecting healthcare systems worldwide, have put further pressure on the organization and delivery of laboratory services. Consolidation, merger, and laboratory downsizing have been driven by the need to deliver economies of scale and cut costs per test while boosting productivity. Distorted economics, based on payment models rewarding volume and efficiency rather than quality and clinical effectiveness, have underpinned the entrance of clinical laboratories into the production industry thus forcing them to relinquish their original mission of providing medical services. The sea change in laboratory medicine in recent years, with the introduction of ever newer and ever more complex tests, including ‘omics’, which impact on clinical decision-making, should encourage clinical laboratories to return to their original mission as long as payments models are changed. Rather than being considered solely in terms of costs, diagnostic testing must be seen in the context of an entire hospital stay or an overall payment for a care pathway: the testing process should be conceived as a part of the patient’s entire journey.
Plasma-chemical modifications of cellulose
for biomedical applications
Authors: Pavliňák David , Švachová Veronika , Vojtek Libor , Zarzycká Jana , Hyršl Pavel , Alberti Milan , Vojtová Lucy 
Published: November 2014

Abstract
A 6-carboxycellulose (in medicine known as “oxidized cellulose” or “oxycellulose”) is one of the cellulose derivatives popular in the field of surgery. Health products based on oxidized cellulose are great local hemostatics with unique bactericidal and fully bioabsorbable effects. Traditional process of native cellulose oxidation is described as a complex radical reaction in strong acidic liquid medium doped by toxic nitrous radicals (NO*). Our plasma-chemical reaction demonstrates a new synthesis method of oxidized cellulose with unique bactericidal effect. This plasma-chemical treatment is based on atmospheric plasma discharge in liquid medium leading to the oxidation of polysaccharide molecules resulting in oxycellulose. Final oxycellulose properties were evaluated by infrared spectroscopy and carboxyl content determination. The biological impact showed a strong germicidal effect.
Influence of microwave plasma parameters on light emission from SiV color centers in nanocrystalline diamond films
Authors: Himics László , Tóth Sára , Veres Miklós , Csíkvári Péter , Koós Margit 
Published: November 2014

Abstract
Zero phonon line (ZPL) shape, position and integral intensity of SiV defect center in diamond is presented for nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) films grown at different conditions, NCD films of average grain sizes from ~50 nm up to ~180 nm have been deposited onto c-Si wafer at substrate temperature of 700 and 850oC from mixture with different CH4 and H2 ratios using MWCVD process. Light emission of SiV defect center and Raman scattering properties of NCD samples were measured on a Renishaw micro-Raman spectrometer with 488 nm excitation. Scanning electron microscopy images were used for monitoring surface morphology and for the analysis of the average grain sizes. Sample thickness was determined by in situ laser reflection interferometry. Characteristics of SiV ZPL are discussed in light of the morphology, bonding structure and average grain size of NCD films.
Influence of Hot Bed Spray Dryer Parameters on Physical Properties of Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) Tea Powder
Authors: Fakher Dizaji Mohsen , HamidiSepehr Ali , Chegini Gholamreza , Khazaei Javad , Mansuri Ali 
Published: November 2014

Abstract
In this study, the effects of some processing parameters on moisture content, drying yield, bulk density, solubility and particle size of peppermint tea powders obtained from a hot bed spray dryer were investigated. In this method of drying, a heated bed is used instead of heated air to simplify spouted bed drying method and lower the cost of drying. A wheel rotary atomizer was employed for spraying of material and a frustum-shaped bed heated by thermal elements was applied around the atomizer. Independent variables were bed temperature (130, 140 and 150°C), feed flow rate (10, 20 and 30 L/h) and rotary speed of atomizer (7,000, 12,000 and 16,000 rpm). The moisture content of dried tea powders ranged from 3.13 to 4.87%. The highest drying yield (87.23%) and solubility (89.6%) were obtained at the bed temperature of 130°C and feed flow rate of 10 L/h.
Avoiding the prenatal programming effects of glucocorticoids: are there alternative treatments for the induction of antenatal lung maturation?
Authors: Justus Georgia , Sloboda Deborah Magdalena , Henrich Wolfgang , Plagemann Andreas , Dudenhausen Joachim Wolfram , Braun Thorsten 
Published: November 2014

AbstractThe long-term outcomes of antenatal glucocorticoids (GCs) vary between reports, and have generated controversy in terms of repeated and single-course events, causing irreversible effects on endocrine set points.This study aimed to assess the effects of alternative therapeutic agents other than synthetic glucocorticoid GC administration for fetal lung maturation.A review of literature from PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar was conducted to assess the use of alternative therapies to synthetic GCs using recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (PRISMA). End points included the rates of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), mRNA expression for pneumocyte type II, concentration of surfactant proteins in alveolar lavage, morphological differences, histological proof of lung maturation, and angiogenesis or quantification of the surfactant pool.In all 41 studies examined, we found that ambroxol showed positive effects on lung maturation, but it has yet to be analyzed with sufficient significance in humans. Interleukins and TNF-alpha produce accelerated lung maturation, but have only been evaluated in basic research/experimental studies. Growth factors promote structural and functional growth in all phases of lung maturation, but little is known about their reciprocal effects and exact mechanisms as therapeutics. Thyroid releasing hormone or vitamin A cause detrimental side effects or were less effective for lung maturation.The efficacy and safety of these alternative agents are differentiated and none up to now can be recommended as an alternative to GCs.
Az Erzsébet Tudományegyetem alapítása, a pozsonyi és budapesti évek története
Authors: Lengvári István 
Published: November 2014

This paper presents the events before the foundation period and the creation of the new law concerning the new universities of Pozsony and Debrecen in 1912. The author describes the first years of the Erzsébet University of Pozsony based on archival sources. The implementation of the plans were roughly destroyed by the events of the First World War and the university was forced to flee to Budapest. There it collaborated with the University Kolozsvár and found temporary operational space before it moved to Pécs in 1923.
Fotó: Pécsi Egyetemtörténeti Gyűjtemény
Az Egyetemi Könyvtár mint az egyetemtörténeti kutatások műhelye
Authors: F. Dárdai Ágnes 
Published: November 2014

A Pécsi Tudományegyetem Egyetemi Könyvtára 1923-tól gondozza a Klimo György püspök által 1774-ben alapított nyilvános püspöki bibliotékát. Ez a könyvállomány képezte a Pozsonyból Pécsre áthelyezett Magyar Királyi Erzsébet Tudományegyetem könyvtárának alapját, és jelenleg is ez a legnagyobb különgyűjteményünk. Így könyvtárunk a 20. század eleji kezdetektől fogva nemcsak a modern, hanem egy jelentős, több évszázadot átölelő történeti könyvgyűjteménynek is őrzője. A Klimo Könyvtár az eredeti alapítási szándék szerint a Pécsett felállítandó universitas szakkönyvtárának létesült, megvalósulására azonban 1923-ig kellett a városnak várnia. A Pécsi Egyetemi Könyvtár ekként a kezdetektől a helyi egyetemtörténeti kutatások egyik műhelye. A könyvtár a történeti értékű könyvgyűjtemény mellett a Pécsi Egyetemtörténeti Múzeumnak is gazdája, melynek feladata a mai egyetem és jogelőd intézményei relikviáinak felkutatása, gyűjtése, továbbá tárgyainak szakszerű gondozása.
Fotó: Pécsi Egyetemtörténeti Gyűjtemény
Making ends meet: a role of RNA ligase RTCB in unfolded protein response
Authors: Filipowicz Witold 
Published: November 2014

The unfolded protein response (UPR) monitors the protein folding capacity of the endoplasmic reticulum. One of the UPR branches includes an unusual cytoplasmic splicing reaction leading to removal of an intron from an mRNA encoding a key UPR transcription factor. The cleavage step of the process is well characterized in both yeast and animals, but the animal enzyme responsible for exon ligation has remained a mystery. Recent reports, including a paper in this issue of The EMBO Journal, identify RTCB as the RNA ligase operating during UPR in mammals and C. elegans.
Cyber Dating Abuse Among Teens Using School-Based Health Centers
Authors: Dick Rebecca N. , McCauley Heather L. , Jones Kelley A. , Tancredi Daniel J. , Goldstein Sandi , Blackburn Samantha , Monasterio Erica , James Lisa , Silverman Jay G. , Miller Elizabeth 
Published: November 2014

OBJECTIVE:
To estimate the prevalence of cyber dating abuse among youth aged 14 to 19 years seeking care at school-based health centers and associations with other forms of adolescent relationship abuse (ARA), sexual violence, and reproductive and sexual health indicators.

METHODS:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted during the 2012–2013 school year (participant n = 1008). Associations between cyber dating abuse and study outcomes were assessed via logistic regression models for clustered survey data.

RESULTS:
Past 3-month cyber dating abuse was reported by 41.4% of this clinic-based sample. More female than male participants reported cyber dating abuse victimization (44.6% vs 31.0%). Compared with no exposure, low- (“a few times”) and high-frequency (“once or twice a month” or more) cyber dating abuse were significantly associated with physical or sexual ARA (low: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.8–4.4; high: aOR 5.4, 95% CI 4.0–7.5) and nonpartner sexual assault (low: aOR 2.7, 95% CI 1.3–5.5; high: aOR 4.1, 95% CI 2.8–5.9). Analysis with female participants found an association between cyber dating abuse exposure and contraceptive nonuse (low: aOR 1.8, 95% CI 1.2–2.7; high: aOR 4.1, 95% CI 2.0–8.4) and reproductive coercion (low: aOR 3.0, 95% CI 1.4–6.2; high: aOR 5.7, 95% CI 2.8–11.6).

CONCLUSIONS:
Cyber dating abuse is common and associated with ARA and sexual assault in an adolescent clinic-based sample. The associations of cyber dating abuse with sexual behavior and pregnancy risk behaviors suggest a need to integrate ARA education and harm reduction counseling into sexual health assessments in clinical settings.