bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Epicardial Adipose Tissue Thickness in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Altun Burak , Tasolar Hakan , Eren Necmi , Binnetoğlu Emine , Altun Mehzat , Temiz Ahmet , Gazi Emine , Barutcu Ahmet , Altunoren Orcun , Colkesen Yucel , Uysal Fatma 
Published: December 2013

AimHemodialysis (HD) patients had higher cardiovascular mortality and it is related to atherosclerosis. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) thickness is a marker of atherosclerosis and independent predictor of coronary artery disease. The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship between EAT and carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT) predictors of early atherosclerosis in HD patients.MethodsThe study included 62 HD patients and 40 healthy controls. EAT thickness and CIMT were measured by echocardiography in all subjects.ResultsEpicardial adipose tissue thickness and CIMT were higher (6.98 ± 1.67 vs. 3.84 ± 0.73 mm, P < 0.001, 0.94 ± 0.17 vs. 0.63 ± 0.11 mm, P < 0.001, respectively) in HD patients than in control subjects. EAT thickness were correlated with CIMT, HD duration, age, and calcium. In addition, HD duration, CIMT, and age were independent predictors of EAT thickness on HD patients in regression analysis.ConclusionEpicardial adipose tissue thickness may be a useful indicator of early atherosclerosis in HD patients.
Figural fluency and immediate visual memory in patients with at‐risk mental state for psychosis: empirical study
Authors: Pawełczyk Agnieszka , Kotlicka‐Antczak Magdalena , Rabe‐Jabłońska Jolanta , Pawełczyk Tomasz , Ruszpel Anna , Łojek Emila 
Published: December 2013

AbstractAimAlthough a number of cognitive functions have been assessed in the ultra‐high risk (UHR) population, only one study has reported on figural fluency. Visual memory was measured by different tests providing inconsistent results. The aim of the present study was to compare figural fluency and visual immediate memory performance in UHR patients and normal subjects.MethodsThe UHR sample consisted of 55 help‐seeking individuals meeting CAARMS criteria. The control group consisted of 65 subjects. They were matched as a group by age, gender and education level. Figural fluency (RFFT) and immediate visual memory (BVRT) were assessed within 2 weeks after inclusion in the study in the UHR patient group.ResultsSignificant differences were obtained in RFFT and BVRT results. In BVRT, UHR patients scored lower in number of correct designs (P < 0.001) and higher in number of errors (P < 0.0001), especially omissions (P < 0.001) and distortions (P < 0.0001). UHR subjects accurately recalled fewer designs, omitted and distorted more test figures. In RFFT, they scored lower in production of novel designs (P < 0.0001) and higher in the error ratio index (P < 0.008). They produced fewer novel designs and made more preservative errors.ConclusionsThe current study concerns non‐verbal cognitive functions in UHR samples. Our results suggest that figural fluency and visual immediate memory are impaired in help‐seeking UHR individuals as compared with matched controls.
Epidemiology of myelofibrosis, essential thrombocythemia, and polycythemia vera in the European Union
Authors: Moulard Odile , Mehta Jyotsna , Fryzek Jon , Olivares Robert , Iqbal Usman , Mesa Ruben A. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackgroundPrimary myelofibrosis (PMF), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and polycythemia vera (PV) are BCR ABL‐negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). Published epidemiology data are scarce, and multiple sources are needed to assess the disease burden.MethodsWe assembled the most recent information available on the incidence and prevalence of myelofibrosis (MF), ET, and PV by conducting a structured and exhaustive literature review of the published peer‐reviewed literature in EMBASE and by reviewing online documentation from disease registries and relevant health registries in European countries. The search was restricted to human studies written in English or French and published between January 1, 2000, and December 6, 2012.ResultsEleven articles identified from EMBASE, three online hematology or oncology registries, and two Web‐based databases or reports were used to summarize epidemiological estimates for MF, PV, and ET. The incidence rate of MF ranged from 0.1 per 100 000 per year to 1 per 100 000 per year. Among the various registries, the incidence of PV ranged from 0.4 per 100 000 per year to 2.8 per 100 000 per year, while the literature estimated the range of PV incidence to be 0.68 per 100 000 to 2.6 per 100 000 per year. The estimated incidence of ET was between 0.38 per 100 000 per year and 1.7 per 100 000 per year. While a few studies reported on the MPNs' prevalences, it is difficult to compare them as various types of prevalence were calculated (point prevalence vs. period prevalence) and standardization was made according to different populations (e.g., the world population and the European population).ConclusionThere is a wide variation in both prevalence and incidence estimates observed across European data sources. Carefully designed studies, with standardized definitions of MPNs and complete ascertainment of patients including both primary and secondary MFs, should be conducted so that estimates of the population aimed to receive novel treatments for these neoplasms are better understood assist public health planning and provide valuable information about the burden of illness to policy makers, funding agencies, resource planners, healthcare insurers, and pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Imatinib and pegylated IFN‐α2b discontinuation in first‐line chronic myeloid leukemia patients following a major molecular response
Authors: Koskenvesa Perttu , Kreutzman Anna , Rohon Peter , Pihlman Markus , Vakkila Emmi , Räsänen Anu , Vapaatalo Mirja , Remes Kari , Lundán Tuija , Hjorth‐Hansen Henrik , Vakkila Jukka , Simonsson Bengt , Mustjoki Satu , Porkka Kimmo 
Published: December 2013

AbstractObjectivesPrevious studies indicate that 40–50% of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia in prolonged complete molecular remission may discontinue imatinib therapy without imminent relapse. The combination of pegylated interferon‐alpha (Peg‐IFN‐α2b) and imatinib may increase the rate of successful discontinuation.MethodsIn this pilot study, we prospectively stopped imatinib from patients (n = 12) who had achieved major molecular response (MMR) after ≥12 months of treatment with either imatinib or imatinib+Peg‐IFN‐α2b. Molecular monitoring was carried out monthly for BCR‐ABL1. In addition, analyses of lymphocyte immunophenotype, function, and plasma cytokines were performed.ResultsIn the monotherapy group, 5/6 patients lost MMR within 4 months. One patient remains to date in MR4.0 61 months after discontinuation. In the combination therapy group, 2/6 patients relapsed within 4 months while still receiving Peg‐IFN‐α2b. Four of six patients were able to discontinue both treatments, but three of these patients relapsed after 3 months. One patient is still in sustained MR4.0 at 58 months off all treatment. All relapsed patients re‐responded to imatinib. The two successfully discontinued patients had either an increased number of NK‐cells or functionally active T‐cells.ConclusionsA higher frequency of relapsed patients in our study in comparison with other studies may be due to the shorter duration of imatinib treatment prior to discontinuation. However, in selected patients with an active immune system, even a short duration of TKI therapy (<2 yr) may allow for therapy discontinuation but this needs to be confirmed in larger prospective studies.
Frontal lobe seizures: From clinical semiology to localization
Authors: Bonini Francesca , McGonigal Aileen , Trébuchon Agnès , Gavaret Martine , Bartolomei Fabrice , Giusiano Bernard , Chauvel Patrick 
Published: December 2013

SummaryObjectiveFrontal lobe seizures are difficult to characterize according to semiologic and electrical features. We wished to establish whether different semiologic subgroups can be identified and whether these relate to anatomic organization.MethodsWe assessed all seizures from 54 patients with frontal lobe epilepsy that were explored with stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) during presurgical evaluation. Semiologic features and concomitant intracerebralEEGchanges were documented and quantified. These variables were examined using Principal Component Analysis and Cluster Analysis, and semiologic features correlated with anatomic localization.ResultsFour main groups of patients were identified according to semiologic features, and correlated with specific patterns of anatomic seizure localization. Group 1 was characterized clinically by elementary motor signs and involved precentral and premotor regions. Group 2 was characterized by a combination of elementary motor signs and nonintegrated gestural motor behavior, and involved both premotor and prefrontal regions. Group 3 was characterized by integrated gestural motor behavior with distal stereotypies and involved anterior lateral and medial prefrontal regions. Group 4 was characterized by seizures with fearful behavior and involved the paralimbic system (ventromedial prefrontal cortex ± anterior temporal structures). The groups were organized along a rostrocaudal axis, representing bands within a spectrum rather than rigid categories. The more anterior the seizure organization, the more likely was the occurrence of integrated behavior during seizures. Distal stereotypies were associated with the most anterior prefrontal localizations, whereas proximal stereotypies occurred in more posterior prefrontal regions.SignificanceMeaningful categorization of frontal seizures in terms of semiology is possible and correlates with anatomic organization along a rostrocaudal axis, in keeping with current hypotheses of frontal lobe hierarchical organization. The proposed electroclinical categorization offers pointers as to the likely zone of organization of networks underlying semiologic production, thus aiding presurgical localization. Furthermore, analysis of ictal motor behavior in prefrontal seizures, including stereotypies, leads to deciphering the cortico‐subcortical networks that produce such behaviors.
A subset of genomic alterations detected in rolandic epilepsies contains candidate or known epilepsy genes including GRIN2A and PRRT2
Authors: Dimassi Sarra , Labalme Audrey , Lesca Gaetan , Rudolf Gabrielle , Bruneau Nadine , Hirsch Edouard , Arzimanoglou Alexis , Motte Jacques , de Saint Martin Anne , Boutry‐Kryza Nadia , Cloarec Robin , Benitto Afaf , Ameil Agnès , Edery Patrick , Ryvlin Philippe , De Bellescize Julitta , Szepetowski Pierre , Sanlaville Damien 
Published: December 2013

SummaryObjectivesRolandic epilepsies (REs) represent the most frequent epilepsy in childhood. Patients may experience cognitive, speech, language, reading, and behavioral issues. The genetic origin of REs has long been debated. The participation of rare copy number variations (CNVs) in the pathophysiology of various human epilepsies has been increasingly recognized. However, no systematic search for microdeletions or microduplications has been reported in RE so far.MethodsArray comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were used to analyze the genomic status of a series of 47 unrelated RE patients who displayed various types of electroclinical manifestations.ResultsThirty rare CNVs were detected in 21 RE patients. Two CNVs were de novo, 12 were inherited, and 16 were of unknown inheritance. Each CNV was unique to one given patient, except for a 16p11.2 duplication found in two patients. The CNVs of highest interest comprised or disrupted strong candidate or confirmed genes for epileptic and other neurodevelopmental disorders, including BRWD3, GRIN2A, KCNC3, PRKCE, PRRT2, SHANK1, and TSPAN7.SignificancePatients with REs showed rare microdeletions and microduplications with high frequency and heterogeneity. Whereas only a subset of all genomic alterations found here may actually participate in the phenotype, the novel de novo events as well as several inherited CNVs contain or disrupt genes, some of which are likely to influence the emergence, the presentation, or the comorbidity of RE. The future screening of cohorts of larger size will help in detecting more de novo or recurrent events and in appreciating the possible enrichment of specific CNVs in patients with RE.
Increased expression of the histamine H4 receptor following differentiation and mediation of the H4 receptor on interleukin‐8 mRNA expression in HaCaT keratinocytes
Authors: Suwa Eriko , Yamaura Katsunori , Sato Shiori , Ueno Koichi 
Published: December 2013

AbstractRecent in vivo studies have demonstrated involvement of the histamine H4 receptor in pruritus and skin inflammation. We previously reported that an H4 receptor antagonist attenuated scratching behaviour and improved skin lesions in an experimental model of atopic dermatitis. We also reported the expression of the H4 receptor in human epidermal tissues. In this study, we investigated the expression of H4 receptor mRNA and the function of the receptor in a culture system that mimics in vivo inflammation on the HaCaT human keratinocyte cell line. Increased expression of the H4 receptor was observed in HaCaT cells following differentiation. Treatment of HaCaT cells with histamine and TNFα enhanced the mRNA expression of interleukin (IL)‐8. These increases in expression were significantly inhibited by the H4 receptor antagonist JNJ7777120. Our results indicate that IL‐8 mRNA expression might be enhanced by histamine and TNFα via H4 receptor stimulation in keratinocytes.
The pneumatic tube system does not affect complete blood count results; a validation study at a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Al‐Riyami A. Z. , Al‐Khabori M. , Al‐Hadhrami R. M. , Al‐Azwani I. S. , Davis H. M. , Al‐Farsi K. S. , Alkindi S. S. , Daar S. F. 
Published: December 2013

SummaryIntroductionEffect of the pneumatic tube system (PTS) on sample quality is controversial. Herein we aim at evaluating the impact of sample transportation via the PTS on complete blood count (CBC) results.MethodsDuplicate CBC samples from normal donors and anemic patients were sent in parallel to the laboratory for testing through the PTS and the courier (CO). We used scatter plots, Bland–Altman plots, correlation coefficient (r), and coefficient of determination for the validation.ResultsA total of 115 samples (donors: 59, patients: 56) were tested. There was excellent correlation between both methods for red blood cell parameters (r range = 0.9213–0.9958) and platelet count. White blood cell (WBC) count and differential count showed similar results (r range = 0.8605–0.9821) for all, with exception of basophils which showed modest correlation (r = 0.4827 for patients and 0.5758 for normal donors). Most of the differences in measurement of all CBC parameters were within the 95% confidence interval of the mean difference on Bland–Altman plots.ConclusionModern PTS can be safely used for transporting CBC samples.
Examining patients' preferences for participation in clinical decision‐making: the experience in a Latin American chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cancer outpatient population
Authors: Jordan P. , Quadrelli S. , Heres M. , Belli L. , Ruhl N. , Colt H. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackground and AimsIt is generally accepted that patients prefer to be told the truth by their physicians; however, the practice of partial truth‐telling is frequent with an existing ‘norm of nondisclosure.’ Our primary objective was to determine what patients wanted to be told about their illness, and whether there might be differences between patients with either cancer or advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A second objective was to determine how these patients envisioned their participation, or lack thereof, in the treatment decision‐making process.MethodsSubjects were eligible for this prospective study if they were attending the oncology or pulmonary outpatient consultation services at the British Hospital or the Sanatorio Güemes Private Hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina between June 2009 and May 2010.ResultsNinety‐nine patients were recruited. Forty‐four had a diagnosis of COPD, and 55 patients had cancer. Seventeen of the patients expected their health to improve in the future, but a significantly higher proportion of patients with malignant disorders expected to get better in the near future as compared with those with COPD (98.2% vs 62.8%, P < 0.001). Most study participants expressed a desire to receive all the information available about their condition. A majority of the participants expressed a preference for making treatment decisions in collaboration with their physician (40.4%)ConclusionsWhile they considered the role of their families relevant and wanted information to be shared so that family members might participate in decision‐making, they did not want their families to have a right to withhold information, make final decisions.
Selective informality: The self‐limiting growth choices of small businesses in South Africa
Authors: BISCHOFF Christine , WOOD Geoffrey 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBased on in‐depth interviews, this study explores the reasons why many South African small businesses abide by some aspects of labour law, but not others: they generally comply with legislated labour regulations, but less so with regulations set by the statutory industry‐level Bargaining Councils. Such selective engagement with the system is attributed to employer hostility to unions in the context of post‐apartheid industrial relations. Since a larger workforce attracts closer scrutiny by the Councils, small firms are reluctant to expand, relying on outsourcing to increase production. The very size of the firm is thus a pliable concept, positioned between formal and informal norms.
Uruguay's “single tax” social protection scheme for the self‐employed
Authors: AMARANTE Veronica , PERAZZO Ivone 
Published: December 2013

AbstractExtending social security coverage to self‐employed workers is a major challenge in Latin America. In 2007, Uruguay eased the rules applying to its “single tax” social security scheme for microenterprises, as a result of which a considerable number of self‐employed workers were able to join. The authors analyse the characteristics and employment conditions of these workers between 2000 and 2010, look at how social security coverage increased as a result of the amended single tax scheme, and assess the scheme's potential for incorporating greater numbers of workers.
Informal employment in developed and developing economies: Perspectives and policy responses
Authors: WILLIAMS Colin C. , LANSKY Mark A. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractThe aim of this introductory article is to provide a critical overview of how informality has been defined and measured, together with selected findings on its extent and character, and a summary of competing views regarding its role in contemporary economies and how it can be tackled. The outcome is a set of conceptual frameworks for understanding both the burgeoning literature on informal employment and how each of the perspectives presented in this Special Issue contributes to the advancement of knowledge on this subject so as to set the scene for the articles that follow.
Minimum wage coverage and compliance in developing countries
Authors: RANI Uma , BELSER Patrick , OELZ Martin , RANJBAR Setareh 
Published: December 2013

AbstractUsing household and labour force survey data from 11 developing countries, the authors calculate rates of minimum wage compliance for formal/informal employees covered by current legislation and assess the average “depth” of violations. Though compliance is negatively related to the ratio of minimum to median wages, countries with a national minimum wage set at a meaningful level typically achieve higher compliance rates than countries with occupational or industry‐specific minimum wage systems. However, better compliance – especially for women, ethnic groups, and unskilled and informal workers – also depends on contextualized yet comprehensive minimum wage policies combining union/employer involvement, awareness‐raising and credible enforcement.
Triage: an investigation of the process and potential vulnerabilities
Authors: Hitchcock Maree , Gillespie Brigid , Crilly Julia , Chaboyer Wendy 
Published: December 2013

AbstractAimTo explore and describe the triage process in the Emergency Department to identify problems and potential vulnerabilities that may affect the triage process.BackgroundTriage is the first step in the patient journey in the Emergency Department and is often the front line in reducing the potential for errors and mistakes.DesignA fieldwork study to provide an in‐depth appreciation and understanding of the triage process.MethodsFieldwork included unstructured observer‐only observation, field notes, informal and formal interviews that were conducted over the months of June, July and August 2012. Over 170 hours of observation were performed covering day, evening and night shifts, 7 days of the week. Sixty episodes of triage were observed; 31 informal interviews and 14 formal interviews were completed. Thematic analysis was used.FindingsThree themes were identified from the analysis of the data and included: ‘negotiating patient flow and care delivery through the Emergency Department’; ‘interdisciplinary team communicating and collaborating to provide appropriate and safe care to patients’; and ‘varying levels of competence of the triage nurse’. In these themes, vulnerabilities and problems described included over and under triage, extended time to triage assessment, triage errors, multiple patients arriving simultaneously, emergency department and hospital overcrowding.ConclusionFindings suggest that vulnerabilities in the triage process may cause disruptions to patient flow and compromise care, thus potentially impacting nurses' ability to provide safe and effective care.
Efficacy and Safety of Nighttime Dosing of Antihypertensives: Review of the Literature and Design of a Pragmatic Clinical Trial
Authors: Carter Barry L. , Chrischilles Elizabeth A. , Rosenthal Gary , Gryzlak Brian M. , Eisenstein Eric L. , Vander Weg Mark W. 
Published: December 2013

Blood pressure exhibits circadian variability, and nighttime blood pressure is one of the best predictors of cardiovascular (CV) events. Adults with hypertension who lack a nighttime dipping pattern are at particularly high risk. Several studies have found that bedtime dosing of antihypertensive agents reduces sleep blood pressure and improves the dipping pattern in nondippers. One small study and 2 substudies of diabetes and chronic kidney disease suggest that bedtime dosing of ≥1 antihypertensives significantly reduced CV events. A Cochrane review of 5 studies found no difference in adverse events between morning and evening dosing. However, several evaluations in ophthalmology have found that nocturnal arterial hypotension precipitated ocular vascular disorders such as ischemic optic neuropathy. Some authors have suggested that additional studies of nighttime dosing of antihypertensive agents that evaluate CV events need to be conducted. The authors describe a randomized controlled pragmatic trial that is being planned at the University of Iowa and Duke University. Patients with hypertension and other comorbid conditions will be randomized to either continue morning dosing of all antihypertensive agents or to switch their nondiuretic medications to bedtime dosing. Patients will be followed for 36 to 42 months. This study will determine whether nighttime dosing reduces CV risk when compared with traditional morning dosing of antihypertensive agents.