bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
New DNA Methylation Markers and Global DNA Hypomethylation Are Associated with Oral Cancer Development
Authors: Foy Jean-Philippe , Pickering Curtis R. , Papadimitrakopoulou Vassiliki A. , Jelinek Jaroslav , Lin Steven H. , William William N. , Frederick Mitchell J. , Wang Jing , Lang Wenhua , Feng Lei , Zhang Li , Kim Edward S. , Fan You H. , Hong Waun K. , El-Naggar Adel K. , Lee J. Jack , Myers Jeffrey N. , Issa Jean-Pierre , Lippman Scott M. , Mao Li , Saintigny Pierre 
Published: September 2015

Abstract
DNA promoter methylation of tumor suppressor genes and global DNA hypomethylation are common features of head and neck cancers. Our goal was to identify early DNA methylation changes in oral premalignant lesions (OPL) that may serve as predictive markers of developing oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Using high-throughput DNA methylation profiles of 24 OPLs, we found that the top 86 genes differentially methylated between patients who did or did not develop OSCC were simultaneously hypermethylated, suggesting that a CpG island methylation phenotype may occur early during OSCC development. The vast majority of the 86 genes were nonmethylated in normal tissues and hypermethylated in OSCC versus normal mucosa. We used pyrosequencing in a validation cohort of 44 patients to evaluate the degree of methylation of AGTR1, FOXI2, and PENK promoters CpG sites that were included in the top 86 genes and of LINE1 repetitive element methylation, a surrogate of global DNA methylation. A methylation index was developed by averaging the percent methylation of AGTR1, FOXI2, and PENK promoters; patients with a high methylation index had a worse oral cancer–free survival (P = 0.0030). On the other hand, patients with low levels of LINE1 methylation had a significantly worse oral cancer–free survival (P = 0.0153). In conclusion, AGTR1, FOXI2, and PENK promoter methylation and LINE1 hypomethylation may be associated with an increased risk of OSCC development in patients with OPLs. Cancer Prev Res; 8(11); 1027–35. ©2015 AACR.
Five-year review of a UK 24 hour testing service for plasma ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol
Authors: Ford Loretta T , Berg Jonathan D 
Published: September 2015

Background We present a 5-year review of our UK service for plasma ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol determination in cases of acute poisoning. Methods Ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol have been measured on all samples received for screening for toxicity by gas chromatography-flame ionization detection over a five-year period. A detailed audit of the results has been undertaken. Results In this period, we received 811 requests, 56% were for first-time screening and 44% repeat analysis where a positive sample has already been received. Of the first-time screen samples, 33.5% screened positive for glycol poisoning. The mean positive ethylene glycol concentration was 1204 mg/L (range 31 to 8666 mg/L). Diethylene glycol was present in 14% of ethylene glycol positive samples but never found alone. Conclusions The data presented here suggest it is not essential to measure diethylene glycol since its inclusion is rarely likely to change patient management.
Simultaneous analysis of urinary metabolites for preliminary identification of primary hyperoxaluria
Authors: Clifford-Mobley Oliver , Hewitt Laura , Rumsby Gill 
Published: September 2015

Background The primary hyperoxalurias are inherited disorders of glyoxylate metabolism, which cause over-production of oxalate leading to urolithiasis and subsequent renal failure. Other metabolites may be produced in excess in the different forms of PH: glycolate in PH1, glycerate in PH2 and 4-hydroxy-2-oxoglutarate and 2,4-dihydroxyglutarate in PH3. The aim of this study was to set up and validate a method for the simultaneous analysis of these metabolites in urine and to evaluate its use for preliminary identification of primary hyperoxaluria prior to definitive diagnosis by genetic testing. Methods Urine samples were derivitized by methoximation and silylation and extracted into organic solvent prior to analysis by gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Results Recovery of the analytes spiked into urine ranged from 91 to 103% and total analytical imprecision ranged from 3.0 to 13.6%. 4-Hydroxy-2-oxoglutarate was unstable in urine at room temperature, and preservation by acidification was required. Mean urinary glycolate, glycerate and 4-hydroxy-2-oxoglutarate or 2,4-dihydroxyglutarate (expressed as a ratio to creatinine) were significantly higher in patients with PH1, PH2 and PH3, respectively. Low 4-hydroxy-2-oxoglutarate was observed in some patients with PH3, probably due to the instability of this analyte, but all PH3 patients had elevated 2,4-dihydroxyglutarate. During five months of routine service, seven cases of PH were identified by this method and subsequently confirmed by gene sequencing including two with novel mutations in HOGA1. Conclusions This study confirms that the method is useful in aiding the diagnosis of primary hyperoxaluria and can direct genetic testing.
Visual Inspection Reliability for Precision Manufactured Parts
Authors: See Judi E. 
Published: September 2015

Objective: Sandia National Laboratories conducted an experiment for the National Nuclear Security Administration to determine the reliability of visual inspection of precision manufactured parts used in nuclear weapons. Background: Visual inspection has been extensively researched since the early 20th century; however, the reliability of visual inspection for nuclear weapons parts has not been addressed. In addition, the efficacy of using inspector confidence ratings to guide multiple inspections in an effort to improve overall performance accuracy is unknown. Further, the workload associated with inspection has not been documented, and newer measures of stress have not been applied. Method: Eighty-two inspectors in the U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise inspected 140 parts for eight different defects. Results: Inspectors correctly rejected 85% of defective items and incorrectly rejected 35% of acceptable parts. Use of a phased inspection approach based on inspector confidence ratings was not an effective or efficient technique to improve the overall accuracy of the process. Results did verify that inspection is a workload-intensive task, dominated by mental demand and effort. Conclusion: Hits for Nuclear Security Enterprise inspection were not vastly superior to the industry average of 80%, and they were achieved at the expense of a high scrap rate not typically observed during visual inspection tasks. Application: This study provides the first empirical data to address the reliability of visual inspection for precision manufactured parts used in nuclear weapons. Results enhance current understanding of the process of visual inspection and can be applied to improve reliability for precision manufactured parts.
Cost-utility analysis of great saphenous vein ablation with radiofrequency, foam and surgery in the emerging health-care setting of Thailand
Authors: Siribumrungwong Boonying , Noorit Pinit , Wilasrusmee Chumpon , Leelahavarong Pattara , Thakkinstian Ammarin , Teerawattananon Yot 
Published: September 2015

Objectives To conduct economic evaluations of radiofrequency ablation, ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy and surgery for great saphenous vein ablation. Method A cost-utility and cohort analysis from societal perspective was performed to estimate incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Transitional probabilities were from meta-analysis. Direct medical, direct non-medical, indirect costs, and utility were from standard Thai costings and cohort. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was performed to assess parameter uncertainties. Results Seventy-seven patients (31 radiofrequency ablation, 19 ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, and 27 surgeries) were enrolled from October 2011 to February 2013. Compared with surgery, radiofrequency ablation costed 12,935 and 20,872 Baht higher, whereas ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy costed 6159 lower and 1558 Bath higher for outpatient and inpatient, respectively. At one year, radiofrequency ablation had slightly lower quality-adjusted life-year, whereas ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy yielded additional 0.025 quality-adjusted life-year gained. Because of costing lower and greater quality-adjusted life-year than other compared alternatives, outpatient ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy was an option being dominant. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis resulted that at the Thai ceiling threshold of 160,000 Baht/quality-adjusted life-year gained, ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy had chances of 0.71 to be cost-effective. Conclusions Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy seems to be cost-effective for treating great saphenous vein reflux compared to surgery in Thailand at one-year results.
Legislating for advocacy: The case of whistleblowing
Authors: Watson Chanel L , O’Connor Tom 
Published: September 2015

Background: The role of nurses as patient advocates is one which is well recognised, supported and the subject of a broad body of literature. One of the key impediments to the role of the nurse as patient advocate is the lack of support and legislative frameworks. Within a broad range of activities constituting advocacy, whistleblowing is currently the subject of much discussion in the light of the Mid Staffordshire inquiry in the United Kingdom (UK) and other instances of patient mistreatment. As a result steps to amend existing whistleblowing legislation where it exists or introduce it where it does not are underway. Objective: This paper traces the development of legislation for advocacy. Conclusion: The authors argue that while any legislation supporting advocacy is welcome, legislation on its own will not encourage or enable nurses to whistleblow.
Impact of Digoxin on Mortality in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Stratified by Heart Failure
Authors: Al-Zakwani Ibrahim , Panduranga P. , Zubaid M. , Sulaiman K. , Rashed W. A. , Alsheikh-Ali A. A. , AlMahmeed W. , Shehab A. , Al Qudaimi A. , Asaad N. , Amin H. 
Published: September 2015

Objective: The use of digoxin in patients having atrial fibrillation (AF) with or without heart failure (HF) is not without controversy. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of digoxin therapy on mortality stratified by HF. Methods: Gulf Survey of Atrial Fibrillation Events was a prospective, multinational, observational registry of consecutive patients with AF recruited from the emergency department of 23 hospitals in 6 countries in the Middle East. Patients were recruited between October 2009 and June 2010 and followed up for 1 year after enrollment. Analyses were performed using univariate and multivariate statistical techniques. Results: The study included a total of 1962 patients with AF, with an overall mean age of 56 ± 16 years, and 52% (n = 1026) were males. At hospital discharge, digoxin was prescribed in 36% (n = 709) of the patients, whereas HF was present in 27% (n = 528) of the cohort. A total of 225 (12.1%) patients died during the 12-month follow-up period after discharge (5.3% [n = 104] were lost to follow-up). Patients with HF were consistently associated with higher mortality at 1 month (5.1% vs 2.1%; P < .001), 6 months (17.2% vs 5.0%; P < 0.001), and 12 months (24.3% vs 7.6%; P < .001) when compared to those without HF. When stratified by HF, digoxin therapy was associated with significantly higher mortality in those without HF at 6 months (8.7% vs 3.7%; adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 5.07; P < .001) and 12 months (12.3% vs 6.0%; aOR, 4.22; P < .001) but not in those with HF (6 months: 18.6% vs 14.7%; aOR, 1.62; P = .177 and 12 months: 25.4% vs 22.4%; aOR, 1.37; P = .317). Conclusions: In patients with AF and HF, digoxin did not offer any survival advantages. However, in those without HF, digoxin therapy was, in fact, associated with significantly higher long-term mortality.
Analytical solution of Reynolds equation under dynamic conditions
Authors: Gong Ru-Zhi , Li De-You , Wang Hong-Jie , Han Lei , Qin Da-Qing 
Published: September 2015

The flow in the clearance heavily influences the lubrication performance of journal bearing. Therefore, it is important to study the flow mechanism in journal bearing. As known, the pressure distribution in bearing clearance can be described with Reynolds equation. In this paper, unsteady form of Reynolds equation was simplified and nondimensionalized at first, based on certain assumptions. Then, the equation was solved with regular perturbation method, obtaining the analytical solution. At the end, the results of our work were compared with the results of “infinitely short journal bearing” model, Vignolo et al. (Approximate analytical solution to Reynolds equation for finite length journal bearings. Tribol Int 2011; 44: 1089–1099), and numerical simulations. The comparison implies that our results show more coincidence with the numerical results in a wider range.
C282Y and H63D Polymorphisms in Hemochromatosis Gene and Risk of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Duan Chunhong , Wang Meiyun , Zhang Yan , Wei Xuxia , Huang Yan , Zhang Hongxia , Cheng Lu , Gai Zhongtao 
Published: September 2015

Objective: A meta-analysis was performed to better clarify the association between hemochromatosis (HFE) gene and the risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Methods: Pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated from fixed- and random-effect models. Heterogeneity among studies was evaluated using the I2 and Q test. Egger’s test was used to estimate the publication bias. Results: We identified 8 articles with 9 independent studies for this meta-analysis. The present meta-analysis showed no significant association of Y allele with the risk of PD in dominant (OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.70-1.09), recessive (OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 0.61-4.10), and codominant (OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.72-1.09) models for C282Y. There were also no significant associations of D allele with the risk of PD in dominant (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.87-1.24), recessive (OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 0.70-2.18), and codominant (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.89-1.22) genetic models for H63D. No publication bias was detected. Conclusion: The meta-analysis indicated that C282Y and H63D polymorphisms in the HFE gene might not be associated with PD.
Diagnostic Profiles of Patients Differentially Failing Executive Functioning Measures
Authors: Hammers Dustin , Ramirez Gabriela , Persad Carol , Heidebrink Judith , Barbas Nancy , Giordani Bruno 
Published: September 2015

Objective: Limited research exists to explain differential executive functioning impairment in clinical populations, particularly between the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST) and the Trail Making Test (TMT). Methods: The distribution of clinical diagnoses was examined in patients failing none, one, or both tasks, and executive task performance was compared among dementia-related diagnoses. Two hundred and sixty-six participants received evaluations through an Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, which included executive tasks. Dementia-related diagnoses were established through consensus. Results: Chi-square analyses indicated that TMT failure, with or without WCST failure, possessed higher associations with dementia diagnoses. Repeated measures analysis of variance similarly indicated that participants with dementia, especially mild and moderate severity, performed worse on TMT. Conclusions: Executive dysfunction was observed in dementia-related diagnoses, and TMT failure was implicated in dementia in higher proportions than WCST impairment. Trail Making Test appears more sensitive than WCST for assessing executive impairment across diagnoses, especially when time and resources are limited in screening and clinical settings.
The quantitative role of flexor sheath incision in correcting Dupuytren proximal interphalangeal joint contractures
Authors: Blazar P. E. , Floyd E. W. , Earp B. E. 
Published: September 2015

Controversy exists regarding intra-operative treatment of residual proximal interphalangeal joint contractures after Dupuytren’s fasciectomy. We test the hypothesis that a simple release of the digital flexor sheath can correct residual fixed flexion contracture after subtotal fasciectomy. We prospectively enrolled 19 patients (22 digits) with Dupuytren’s contracture of the proximal interphalangeal joint. The average pre-operative extension deficit of the proximal interphalangeal joints was 58° (range 30–90). The flexion contracture of the joint was corrected to an average of 28° after fasciectomy. In most digits (20 of 21), subsequent incision of the flexor sheath further corrected the contracture by an average of 23°, resulting in correction to an average flexion contracture of 4.7° (range 0–40). Our results support that contracture of the tendon sheath is a contributor to Dupuytren’s contracture of the joint and that sheath release is a simple, low morbidity addition to correct Dupuytren’s contractures of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Additional release of the proximal interphalangeal joint after fasciectomy, after release of the flexor sheath, is not necessary in many patients. Level of Evidence: IV (Case Series, Therapeutic)
Ciprofloxacin during upper respiratory tract infections to reduce Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in paediatric cystic fibrosis: a pilot study
Authors: Connett Gary J. , Pike Katharine C. , Legg Julian P. , Cathie Katrina , Dewar Ann , Foote Keith , Harris Amanda , Faust Saul N. 
Published: September 2015

Objectives: Acute viral respiratory illnesses are associated with acquisition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. This study aimed to pilot a protocol for a randomized controlled trial to determine whether oral antipseudomonal antibiotics used at the onset of such episodes might delay onset of infection with this organism. Methods: A total of 41 children with CF aged 2–14 years, without chronic Pseudomonas infection, were randomized to receive ciprofloxacin ( n = 28) or placebo ( n = 13) at the onset of acute viral respiratory infections on an intention to treat basis, during a study period of up to 32 months. Results: There were no unexpected adverse events believed related to the use of the study medication. The rate of withdrawal from the study was low (approximately 7%) and did not differ between groups. Randomization was effective and acceptable to participants. Primary and secondary outcome measures all favoured active treatment, but there were no significant between group differences. The median rate of Pseudomonas isolates was 0/patient/year (interquartile range 0–0.38) in both the active and placebo groups. Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed no significant difference in time to first Pseudomonas isolate between groups. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the clinical feasibility of using oral ciprofloxacin in CF patients at times of viral infection. Within this sample size, no significant association was found between active treatment and decreased growth of Pseudomonas in follow-up microbiological samples. A definitive study would require at least 320 children to demonstrate significant differences in the rate of pseudomonal isolates.
Coagulation factor V mediates inhibition of tissue factor signaling by activated protein C in mice
Authors: Liang Hai Po H. , Kerschen Edward J. , Basu Sreemanti , Hernandez Irene , Zogg Mark , Jia Shuang , Hessner Martin J. , Toso Raffaella , Rezaie Alireza R. , Fernández José A. , Camire Rodney M. , Ruf Wolfram , Griffin John H. , Weiler Hartmut 
Published: September 2015

Key PointsFactor V and protein S are required for sepsis mortality reduction and suppression of inflammatory gene expression by activated protein C. The R506Q mutation (Leiden mutation) abrogates the anti-inflammatory cofactor function of factor V for activated protein C.
Automated drug dispensing systems in the intensive care unit: a financial analysis
Authors: Chapuis Claire , Bedouch Pierrick , Detavernier Maxime , Durand Michel , Francony Gilles , Lavagne Pierre , Foroni Luc , Albaladejo Pierre , Allenet Benoit , Payen Jean-Francois 
Published: September 2015

Abstract
Introduction
To evaluate the economic impact of automated-drug dispensing systems (ADS) in surgical intensive care units (ICUs). A financial analysis was conducted in three adult ICUs of one university hospital, where ADS were implemented, one in each unit, to replace the traditional floor stock system.

Method
Costs were estimated before and after implementation of the ADS on the basis of floor stock inventories, expired drugs, and time spent by nurses and pharmacy technicians on medication-related work activities. A financial analysis was conducted that included operating cash flows, investment cash flows, global cash flow and net present value.

Results
After ADS implementation, nurses spent less time on medication-related activities with an average of 14.7 hours saved per day/33 beds. Pharmacy technicians spent more time on floor-stock activities with an average of 3.5 additional hours per day across the three ICUs. The cost of drug storage was reduced by €44,298 and the cost of expired drugs was reduced by €14,772 per year across the three ICUs. Five years after the initial investment, the global cash flow was €148,229 and the net present value of the project was positive by €510,404.

Conclusion
The financial modeling of the ADS implementation in three ICUs showed a high return on investment for the hospital. Medication-related costs and nursing time dedicated to medications are reduced with ADS.
Stress evolution in thermal barrier coatings for rocket engine applications
Authors: Bäker Martin , Fiedler Torben , Rösler Joachim 
Published: September 2015

Abstract
Background
Thermal barrier coatings are a promising concept to improve the lifetime of the copper liner of a rocket engine. Due to the high heat fluxes and the large thermal conductivity of copper, coatings have to be designed especially for this application.

Methods
In this paper, we perform fully thermo-mechanically coupled finite element analyses of a small section of a combustion chamber with a coating system comprising a NiCuCrAl bond coat and a NiCrAlY top coat.

Results
Heat fluxes are calculated to determine reasonable coating thickness values. Elastic and plastic deformation in the materials is considered to study the stress evolution. A crack model serves to estimate the possibility of vertical cracks propagating through the coating system.

Conclusions
Several design guidelines are developed from these results that will aid future development of thermal barrier coatings.
The rostral migratory stream generates hippocampal CA1 pyramidal-like neurons in a novel organotypic slice co-culture model
Authors: Singec Ilyas , Knoth Rolf , Vida Imre , Frotscher Michael 
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACT
The mouse subventricular zone (SVZ) generates large numbers of neuroblasts, which migrate in a distinct pathway, the rostral migratory stream (RMS), and replace specific interneurons in the olfactory bulb (OB). Here, we introduce an organotypic slice culture model that directly connects the RMS to the hippocampus as a new destination. RMS neuroblasts widely populate the hippocampus and undergo cellular differentiation. We demonstrate that RMS cells give rise to various neuronal subtypes and, surprisingly, to CA1 pyramidal neurons. Pyramidal neurons are typically generated before birth and are lost in various neurological disorders. Hence, this unique slice culture model enables us to investigate their postnatal genesis under defined in vitro conditions from the RMS, an unanticipated source for hippocampal pyramidal neurons.