bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Randomized clinical trial: effect of the 5‐HT4receptor agonist revexepride on reflux parameters in patients with persistent reflux symptoms despitePPItreatment
Authors: Tack J. , Zerbib F. , Blondeau K. , des Varannes S. B. , Piessevaux H. , Borovicka J. , Mion F. , Fox M. , Bredenoord A. J. , Louis H. , Dedrie S. , Hoppenbrouwers M. , Meulemans A. , Rykx A. , Thielemans L. , Ruth M. 
Published: December 2014

AbstractBackgroundApproximately, 20–30% of patients with gastro‐esophageal reflux disease (GERD) experience persistent symptoms despite treatment with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These patients may have underlying dysmotility; therefore, targeting gastric motor dysfunction in addition to acid inhibition may represent a new therapeutic avenue. The aim of this study was to assess the pharmacodynamic effect of the prokinetic agent revexepride (a 5‐HT4receptor agonist) in patients withGERDwho have persistent symptoms despite treatment with aPPI.MethodsThis was a phase II, exploratory, multicenter, randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, parallel‐group study in patients withGERDwho experienced persistent symptoms while taking a stable dose ofPPIs (ClinicalTrials.govidentifier: NCT01370863). Patients were randomized to either revexepride (0.5 mg, three times daily) or matching placebo for 4 weeks. Reflux events and associated characteristics were assessed by pH/impedance monitoring and disease symptoms were assessed using electronic diaries and questionnaires.Key ResultsIn total, 67 patients were enrolled in the study. There were no significant differences between study arms in the number, the mean proximal extent or the bolus clearance times of liquid‐containing reflux events. Changes from baseline in the number of heartburn, regurgitation, and other symptom events were minimal for each treatment group and no clear trends were observed.Conclusions & InferencesNo clear differences were seen in reflux parameters between the placebo and revexepride groups.
Easter Egg Hunt Dermatitis: Systemic Allergic Contact Dermatitis Associated with Chocolate Ingestion
Authors: Jacob Sharon E. , Hamann Dathan , Goldenberg Alina , Connelly Elizabeth A. 
Published: December 2014

AbstractPediatric systemic allergic contact dermatitis to nickel has previously been reported in association with cocoa. We present four clinical cases of hypersensitivity temporally associated with chocolate consumption at Easter. Clinicians should be aware of the potential for foods high in nickel to provoke patients with known nickel sensitivity and systemic dermatitis.
A tutorial on analyzing data from speed‐dating studies with heterosexual dyads
Authors: ACKERMAN ROBERT A. , KASHY DEBORAH A. , CORRETTI CONRAD A. 
Published: December 2014

AbstractSpeed‐dating studies provide a useful venue for studying attraction and other relationship initiation processes. They provide researchers with a unique opportunity to assess how much a dyadic behavior (e.g., attraction) is due to some relationship‐specific adjustment or the dispositional tendencies of the two people interacting. Researchers can also investigate the impact of individual difference variables on relationship initiation outcomes. This article shows researchers how to address such interesting questions by providing an extended treatment of how to apply the social relations model (D. A. Kenny & L. La Voie, 1984) to data from a typical speed‐dating study with heterosexual dyads. The statistical program SPSS is used given its widespread use and accessibility.
Ultrasonography, laboratory, and cholangiography correlation of biliary complications in pediatric liver transplantation
Authors: Teplisky Darío , Urueña Tincani Eliana , Halac Esteban , Garriga Matías , Cervio Guillermo , Imventarza Oscar , Sierre Sergio 
Published: December 2014

AbstractThe aim of this study is to correlate the US, laboratory, and cholangiography findings in pediatric liver transplant patients with biliary complications, trying to identify reliable decision‐making tools for the management of these complications. Retrospective review was carried out of US results in 39 consecutive patients, from 2011 to 2013, with biliary complications after LT, documented by PTC. According to US biliary dilation, patients were classified as: mild, moderate, and severe, and according to laboratory findings as: normal or abnormal serum bilirubin and level of serum GGT. Data were correlated with PTC findings, divided in three groups: mild, moderate, and severe/occlusive BDS. There was no statistically significant correlation between the US findings and the laboratory findings and between US findings with PTC. There was a statistically significant correlation between GGT and cholangiography. In our series, abnormal US could not predict the severity of BDS on PTC. Bilirubin results were not able to predict the US findings either. GGT results demonstrated a statistically significant correlation with the severity of BDS found on PTC. These findings emphasize the role of GGT in the evaluation and decision of biliary interventions in pediatric liver transplant recipients.
Molecular Regulation of UV‐Induced DNA Repair
Authors: Shah Palak , He Yu‐Ying 
Published: December 2014

AbstractUltraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight is a major etiologic factor for skin cancer, the most prevalent cancer in the United States, as well as premature skin aging. In particular, UVB radiation causes formation of specific DNA damage photoproducts between pyrimidine bases. These DNA damage photoproducts are repaired by a process called nucleotide excision repair, also known as UV‐induced DNA repair. When left unrepaired, UVB‐induced DNA damage leads to accumulation of mutations, predisposing people to carcinogenesis as well as to premature aging. Genetic loss of nucleotide excision repair leads to severe disorders, namely, xeroderma pigmentosum (XP), trichothiodystrophy (TTD) and Cockayne syndrome (CS), which are associated with predisposition to skin carcinogenesis at a young age as well as developmental and neurological conditions. Regulation of nucleotide excision repair is an attractive avenue to preventing or reversing these detrimental consequences of impaired nucleotide excision repair. Here, we review recent studies on molecular mechanisms regulating nucleotide excision repair by extracellular cues and intracellular signaling pathways, with a special focus on the molecular regulation of individual repair factors.
Synthesis of Bi2WO6/Bi2O3 Composite with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity by a Facile One‐step Hydrothermal Synthesis Route
Authors: Wang Tianye , Zhang Fengjun , Xiao Guosheng , Zhong Shuang , Lu Cong 
Published: December 2014

AbstractIn this study, the characterization and photocatalytic activity of Bi2WO6/Bi2O3 under visible‐light irradiation was investigated in detail. The results suggested that Bi2WO6/Bi2O3 can be synthesized by a facile one‐pot hydrothermal route using a super big 200 mL Teflon‐lined autoclave with optimal sodium oleate/Bi molar ratio of 1.25. Through the characterization of Bi2WO6/Bi2O3 by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared, UV‐vis diffuse reflectance spectra and Photoluminescence spectra, it was found that the as‐prepared composite possessed smaller crystallite size and higher visible‐light responsive than the pure Bi2WO6. Moreover, it was expected that the as‐prepared composites exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity for the degradation of Rhodamine B under visible‐light irradiation, which could be ascribed to their improved light absorption property and the reduced recombination of the photogenerated electrons and holes during the photocatalytic reaction. In general, this study could provide a principle method to synthesize Bi2WO6/Bi2O3 with enhanced photocatalytic activity by one‐step hydrothermal synthesis route for environmental purification.
Impact of Endocrine‐Disrupting Chemicals on Reproductive Function in Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Huang Y , Wang XL , Zhang JW , Wu KS 
Published: December 2014

ContentsThe prevalence of endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the aquatic environment has been associated with the wide detection of alterations in the development and physiology of vertebrates. Zebrafish, as a model species, has been extensively used in toxicological research. In this review, we focus on recent published evidence of the harmful effects of EDCs on reproductive function in zebrafish, including skewed sex ratio, immature gonads, diminished sexual behaviour, decreased sperm count, reduced spawning and fertilization. These impairments mostly result from disruption to sex‐steroid hormones induced by endocrine disruptors. We also discuss other effects of exposure to EDCs. In EDC exposure research, despite incomplete assessments of altered gonad histopathology and sexual behaviour, these present potential effective biomarkers or pathways for evaluating the reproductive function in zebrafish on EDC exposure. To date, the pernicious effects of some EDCs on the reproductive performance in laboratory zebrafish are well understood; however, similar alterations remain for further determination in wild‐type fish and more kinds of EDCs. More studies should be performed under established scientific regulatory criteria to investigate the impact of EDCs on reproduction in zebrafish. Moreover, further research is required to explain the definite mechanism of sexual differentiation, which helps in understanding the shift of sexual phenotype with EDC exposure.
Effect of Reproductive Seasonality on Gamete Quality in the North American Bison (Bison bison bison)
Authors: Krishnakumar S , Whiteside DP , Elkin B , Thundathil JC 
Published: December 2014

ContentsThe objective was to investigate the effects of reproductive seasonality on gamete quality in plains bison (Bison bison bison). Epididymal sperm (n = 61 per season), collected during the breeding season (July–September), had significantly higher post‐thaw total motility (36.76 ± 14.18 vs 31.24 ± 12.74%), and lower linearity (0.36 ± 0.06 vs 0.39 ± 0.04) and wobbliness (0.49 ± 0.04 vs 0.51 ± 0.03; mean ± SD) compared to non‐breeding season (January–March) samples. Representative samples (n = 4) from each season were used in heterologous IVF trials using cattle oocytes. Cleavage, morulae and blastocyst percentage were higher for breeding vs non‐breeding season sperm samples (81.88 ± 6.8 vs 49.94 ± 6.77; 41.89 ± 13.40 vs 27.08 ± 23.21; and 30.49 ± 17.87 vs 13.72 ± 18.98%, respectively). Plains bison ovaries collected during the breeding (n = 97 pairs) and non‐breeding (n = 100 pairs) seasons were classified as luteal or follicular. Oocytes recovered from these ovaries were classified into five grades based on morphology. There was no significant difference in the number of luteal ovaries or grades of oocytes recovered. Oocytes were matured, fertilized (with frozen sperm from three bison bulls) and cultured in vitro. Cleavage percentage was higher for oocytes collected during breeding vs non‐breeding season (83.72 ± 6.42 vs 73.98 ± 6.43), with no significant difference in subsequent development to blastocysts. In summary, epididymal sperm from non‐breeding season had decreased total motility and resulted in reduced embryo production in vitro. Oocytes collected during non‐breeding season had reduced ability to be matured, fertilized and/or undergo cleavage in vitro. Data suggested that season influenced gamete quality in plains bison.
Rehabilitation following hospitalization in patients with COPD: Can it reduce readmissions?
Authors: Maddocks Matthew , Kon Samantha S.C. , Singh Sally J. , Man William D.‐C. 
Published: December 2014

AbstractExacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are one of the commonest causes of emergency hospital admission and are associated with high rates of readmission. Rehabilitation in the peri‐ and early post‐hospitalization setting may counteract the deleterious consequences of an acute hospital admission and target modifiable risk factors for readmission such as physical inactivity, reduced exercise capacity and impaired physical function. Pulmonary rehabilitation in the peri‐hospitalization period can improve exercise capacity and health‐related quality of life and can also reduce rates of readmission. Consequently, guidelines have recommended the provision of pulmonary rehabilitation in the acute setting. However, recent trials showing less positive results and observational data questioning acceptability may challenge prevailing enthusiasm. This review examines the role of pulmonary rehabilitation in the peri‐ and early post‐hospitalization setting, considering the modifiable risk factors for readmission, the latest evidence regarding rehabilitation in the acute setting, issues around acceptability and uptake, and alternative strategies to help deliver rehabilitation to more patients. The acceptability and effectiveness of pulmonary rehabilitation offered that post‐exacerbation could be improved by overcoming issues around the setting, timing and format of rehabilitation approaches, including their integration with self‐management interventions.
Development of quality indicators to evaluate antibiotic treatment of patients with community‐acquired pneumonia in Indonesia
Authors: Farida Helmia , Rondags Angelique , Gasem M. Hussein , Leong Katharina , Adityana A. , van den Broek Peterhans J. , Keuter Monique , Natsch Stephanie 
Published: December 2014

AbstractObjectiveTo develop an instrument for evaluating the quality of antibiotic management of patients with community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) applicable in a middle‐income developing country.MethodA previous study and Indonesian guidelines were reviewed to derive potential quality of care indicators (QIs). An expert panel performed a two‐round Delphi consensus procedure on the QI's relevance to patient recovery, reduction of antimicrobial resistance and cost containment. Applicability in practice, including reliability, feasibility and opportunity for improvement, was determined in a data set of 128 patients hospitalised with CAP in Semarang, Indonesia.ResultsFifteen QIs were selected by the consensus procedure. Five QIs did not pass feasibility criteria, because of inappropriate documentation, inefficient laboratory services or patient factors. Three QIs provided minor opportunity for improvement. Two QIs contradicted each other; one of these was considered not valid and excluded. A final set of six QIs was defined for use in the Indonesian setting.ConclusionUsing the Delphi method, we defined a list of QIs for assessing the quality of care, in particular antibiotic treatment, for CAP in Indonesia. For further improvement, a modified Delphi method that includes discussion, a sound medical documentation system, improvement of microbiology laboratory services, and multi‐center applicability tests are needed to develop a valid and applicable QI list for the Indonesian setting.
Implementing WHO hospital guidelines improves quality of paediatric care in central hospitals in Lao PDR
Authors: Gray Amy Zigrida , Soukaloun Douangdao , Soumphonphakdy Bandith , Duke Trevor 
Published: December 2014

AbstractObjectivesTo evaluate the impact of implementing a multifaceted intervention based on the WHO Pocketbook of Hospital Care for Children on the quality of case management of common childhood illnesses in hospitals in Lao PDR.MethodsThe quality of case management of four sentinel conditions was assessed in three central hospitals before and after the implementation of the WHO Pocketbook as part of a broader mixed‐methods study. Data on performance of key steps in case management in more than 600 admissions were collected by medical record abstraction pre‐ and post‐intervention, and change was measured according to the proportion of cases which key steps were performed as well as an overall score of case management for each condition.ResultsImprovements in mean case management scores were observed post‐intervention for three of the four conditions, with the greatest change in pneumonia (53–91%), followed by diarrhoea and low birthweight. Rational drug prescribing, appropriate use of IV fluids and appropriate monitoring all occurred more frequently post‐intervention. Non‐recommended practices such as prescription of antitussives became less frequent.ConclusionsA multifaceted intervention based on the WHO Pocketbook of Hospital Care for children led to better paediatric care in central Lao hospitals. The degree of improvement was dependent on the condition assessed.
Involvement of multiple taste receptors in umami taste: analysis of gustatory nerve responses in metabotropic glutamate receptor 4 knockout mice
Authors: Yasumatsu Keiko , Manabe Tomohiro , Yoshida Ryusuke , Iwatsuki Ken , Uneyama Hisayuki , Takahashi Ichiro , Ninomiya Yuzo 
Published: December 2014

Key points
The taste receptor T1R1 + T1R3 heterodimer and metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR) may function as umami taste receptors.
Here, we used mGluR4 knockout (mGluR4‐KO) mice and examined the function of mGluR4 in peripheral taste responses of mice.
The mGluR4‐KO mice showed reduced responses to glutamate and l‐AP4 (mGluR4 agonist) in the chorda tympani and glossopharyngeal nerves without affecting responses to other taste stimuli.
Residual glutamate responses in mGluR4‐KO mice were suppressed by gurmarin (T1R3 blocker) and AIDA (group I mGluR antagonist).
The present study not only provided functional evidence for the involvement of mGluR4 in umami taste responses, but also suggested contributions of T1R1 + T1R3 and mGluR1 receptors in glutamate responses.
AbstractUmami taste is elicited by l‐glutamate and some other amino acids and is thought to be initiated by G‐protein‐coupled receptors. Proposed umami receptors include heterodimers of taste receptor type 1, members 1 and 3 (T1R1 + T1R3), and metabotropic glutamate receptors 1 and 4 (mGluR1 and mGluR4). Accumulated evidences support the involvement of T1R1 + T1R3 in umami responses in mice. However, little is known about the in vivo function of mGluR in umami taste. Here, we examined taste responses of the chorda tympani (CT) and the glossopharyngeal (GL) nerves in wild‐type mice and mice genetically lacking mGluR4 (mGluR4‐KO). Our results indicated that compared to wild‐type mice, mGluR4‐KO mice showed significantly smaller gustatory nerve responses to glutamate and l‐(+)‐2‐amino‐4‐phosphonobutyrate (an agonist for group III mGluR) in both the CT and GL nerves without affecting responses to other taste stimuli. Residual glutamate responses in mGluR4‐KO mice were not affected by (RS)‐alpha‐cyclopropyl‐4‐phosphonophenylglycine (an antagonist for group III mGluR), but were suppressed by gurmarin (a T1R3 blocker) in the CT and (RS)‐1‐aminoindan‐1,5‐dicarboxylic acid (an antagonist for group I mGluR) in the CT and GL nerve. In wild‐type mice, both quisqualic acid (an agonist for group I mGluR) and l‐(+)‐2‐amino‐4‐phosphonobutyrate elicited gustatory nerve responses and these responses were suppressed by addition of (RS)‐1‐aminoindan‐1,5‐dicarboxylic acid and (RS)‐alpha‐cyclopropyl‐4‐phosphonophenylglycine, respectively. Collectively, the present study provided functional evidences for the involvement of mGluR4 in umami taste responses in mice. The results also suggest that T1R1 + T1R3 and mGluR1 are involved in umami taste responses in mice. Thus, umami taste would be mediated by multiple receptors.
Permeabilization of brain tissue in situ enables multiregion analysis of mitochondrial function in a single mouse brain
Authors: Herbst Eric A.F. , Holloway Graham P. 
Published: December 2014

Key points
Mitochondrial function in the brain is traditionally assessed through analysing respiration in isolated mitochondria, a technique that possesses significant tissue and time requirements while also disrupting the cooperative mitochondrial reticulum.
We permeabilized brain tissue in situ to permit analysis of mitochondrial respiration with the native mitochondrial morphology intact, removing the need for isolation time and minimizing tissue requirements to ∼2 mg wet weight.
The permeabilized brain technique was validated against the traditional method of isolated mitochondria and was then further applied to assess regional variation in the mouse brain with ischaemia–reperfusion injuries.
A transgenic mouse model overexpressing catalase within mitochondria was applied to show the contribution of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species to ischaemia–reperfusion injuries in different brain regions.
This technique enhances the accessibility of addressing physiological questions in small brain regions and in applying transgenic mouse models to assess mechanisms regulating mitochondrial function in health and disease.
AbstractMitochondria function as the core energy providers in the brain and symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases are often attributed to their dysregulation. Assessing mitochondrial function is classically performed in isolated mitochondria; however, this process requires significant isolation time, demand for abundant tissue and disruption of the cooperative mitochondrial reticulum, all of which reduce reliability when attempting to assess in vivo mitochondrial bioenergetics. Here we introduce a method that advances the assessment of mitochondrial respiration in the brain by permeabilizing existing brain tissue to grant direct access to the mitochondrial reticulum in situ. The permeabilized brain preparation allows for instant analysis of mitochondrial function with unaltered mitochondrial morphology using significantly small sample sizes (∼2 mg), which permits the analysis of mitochondrial function in multiple subregions within a single mouse brain. Here this technique was applied to assess regional variation in brain mitochondrial function with acute ischaemia–reperfusion injuries and to determine the role of reactive oxygen species in exacerbating dysfunction through the application of a transgenic mouse model overexpressing catalase within mitochondria. Through creating accessibility to small regions for the investigation of mitochondrial function, the permeabilized brain preparation enhances the capacity for examining regional differences in mitochondrial regulation within the brain, as the majority of genetic models used for unique approaches exist in the mouse model.