bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An exploratory trial of intravenous immunoglobulin therapy for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a preliminary multicenter report
Authors: Enomoto Noriyuki , Chida Kingo , Suda Takafumi , Kaida Yusuke , Taniguchi Masami , Azuma Arata , Hayashi Hiroki , Ogura Takashi , Kitamura Hideya , Yamaguchi Ou , Ando Masayuki , Sato Atsuhiko , Kudo Shoji 
Published: February 2015

AbstractBackground and AimsIdiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal disorder without specific treatments. Although the efficacy of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy for autoimmune diseases has been reported, that for IPF remains unknown. This study aims to determine the efficacy and safety of IVIG for IPF.MethodsIn an exploratory, multicenter, non‐randomized and prospective trial, patients with progressive IPF were enrolled. Patients were treated with IVIG for five consecutive days (5‐day IVIG) or once monthly for five consecutive months (5‐month IVIG). Changes in the vital capacity (VC), diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO), 6‐min walk test (6MWT) and high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) findings were evaluated.ResultsA total of 10 patients with IPF were treated with IVIG: 6 were in 5‐day IVIG and 4 were in 5‐month IVIG group. In 5‐day IVIG group, the treatment effects were temporal, and physiological and HRCT findings deteriorated in three of six patients. In 5‐month IVIG group, changes in %VC, %DLCO and walk distance in 6MWT at 6 months were −0.9 ± 5.3%, 6.9 ± 12.6% and 79 ± 58 m (mean ± standard deviation), respectively, and the treatment effects were long lasting. The change in VC 6 months after starting IVIG was smaller than that of 6–12 months after starting IVIG (after cessation of IVIG) (−0.02 ± 0.15 vs −0.33 ± 0.14 L, P = 0.022). Ground glass opacities were diminished in two of four patients. Adverse events were mild and tolerable.ConclusionThis preliminary study shows that once‐monthly IVIG treatment may be effective and tolerable in patients with IPF.
Functional traits reveal early responses in marine reserves following protection from fishing
Authors: Coleman M. A. , Bates A. E. , Stuart‐Smith R. D. , Malcolm H. A. , Harasti D. , Jordan A. , Knott N. A. , Edgar G. J. , Kelaher B. P. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractAimEvaluating the effectiveness of marine reserves in achieving conservation goals is challenged by the decadal scales over which biological systems respond following protection. Given that trophic interactions underpin community responses following protection and that complex ecological interactions make responses difficult to identify, quantifying changes in species traits may provide detail missed by traditional diversity measures, including information relevant to ecosystem functioning. We determine whether this is the case by comparing community metrics based on functional traits to taxonomic diversity measures associated with ‘no take’ marine reserves and partially protected, fished areas along eight degrees of latitude.LocationEighteen ‘no take’ marine reserves and 14 partially protected, fished areas along the east coast of Australia.MethodWe use two independent datasets from shallow and deep coastal rocky reefs to analyse trait‐based metrics and taxonomic diversity from sites inside reserves to sites in partially protected, fished areas.ResultsTaxonomic diversity (species diversity and richness) and trait‐based multimetrics (functional richness and dispersion) showed no difference with level of protection. Total fish abundance responded positively to protection, but only on shallow reefs. Comparing values of individual functional traits implied a return of larger bodied species of fish in protected areas and an increase in trophic level. The latter was significant on deeper reefs and was strongly correlated with age of protected area. Thus, recovery responses were largely associated with community mean functional trait values, highlighting the value of trait‐based approaches for detecting change, when no differences in traditional taxonomic diversity measures were apparent.Main conclusionsWe empirically demonstrate that functional traits can elucidate early conservation outcomes, when traditional multimetric diversity indices do not distinguish protected and fished communities. Ecologically relevant but sensitive metrics are fundamental to allow information to be incorporated into adaptive management strategies, which often occur on political rather than biological time‐scales.
Historical legacies accumulate to shape future biodiversity in an era of rapid global change
Authors: Essl Franz , Dullinger Stefan , Rabitsch Wolfgang , Hulme Philip E. , Pyšek Petr , Wilson John R. U. , Richardson David M. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractAimBiodiversity responses to changing environmental forcing on species are often characterized by considerable time‐lags (= relaxation times). Although changes to the occurrence and abundance of species likely have cascading effects (e.g. on species of other trophic levels, genes, community structure and ecosystem processes), current concepts addressing lagged biodiversity responses are limited to single drivers affecting a few biodiversity components (e.g. extinction debt in terms of species numbers or population size). Little attention has been paid to the interacting and cumulative nature of time‐lag phenomena. Here, we synthesize current knowledge, mechanisms and implications of delayed biodiversity responses and propose a ‘cumulative biodiversity lags‐framework’ which aims to integrate lagged responses of various components of biological organization.LocationGlobal.ResultsEffects of change in environmental forcing are transmitted along a series of linked cause–effect relationships which act on different biodiversity components (e.g. individuals, populations, species, communities). We show that lagged responses to environmental forcing are caused by different mechanisms (e.g. metapopulation dynamics, dispersal limitation, successional dynamics), which operate sequentially on these intermediary links. Lags manifest themselves on the respective biodiversity component which changes over time; the full relaxation time of a focal system will therefore depend on the aggregate length of different lags. We elucidate key mechanisms and circumstances which are likely to cause cumulative lagged responses, and propose research avenues to improve understanding of cumulative biodiversity lags.Main conclusionsThe failure to give adequate consideration to widespread cumulative time‐lags often masks the full extent of biodiversity changes that have already been triggered. Effects that are particularly relevant for human livelihoods (e.g. changes in the provision of ecosystem services) may emerge with the most pronounced delay. Accordingly, the consideration of appropriate temporal scales should become a key topic in future work at the science–policy interface.
Low–normal thyroid function and the pathogenesis of common cardio‐metabolic disorders
Authors: van Tienhoven‐Wind Lynnda J. N. , Dullaart Robin P. F. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractBackgroundSubclinical hypothyroidism may adversely affect the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Less is known about the role of low–normal thyroid function, that is higher thyroid‐stimulating hormone and/or lower free thyroxine levels within the euthyroid reference range, in the development of cardio‐metabolic disorders. This review is focused on the relationship of low–normal thyroid function with CVD, plasma lipids and lipoprotein function, as well as with metabolic syndrome (MetS), chronic kidney disease (CKD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).Materials and methodsThis narrative review, which includes results from previously published systematic reviews and meta‐analyses, is based on clinical and basic research papers, obtained via MEDLINE and PubMed up to November 2014.ResultsLow–normal thyroid function could adversely affect the development of (subclinical) atherosclerotic manifestations. It is likely that low–normal thyroid function relates to modest increases in plasma total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and may convey pro‐atherogenic changes in lipoprotein metabolism and in HDL function. Most available data support the concept that low–normal thyroid function is associated with MetS, insulin resistance and CKD, but not with high blood pressure. Inconsistent effects of low–normal thyroid function on NAFLD have been reported so far.ConclusionsObservational studies suggest that low–normal thyroid function may be implicated in the pathogenesis of CVD. Low–normal thyroid function could also play a role in the development of MetS, insulin resistance and CKD, but the relationship with NAFLD is uncertain. The extent to which low–normal thyroid function prospectively predicts cardio‐metabolic disorders has been insufficiently established so far.
Results of the Determination of He in Cenozoic Aquifers Using the GC Method
Authors: Kotowski Tomasz , Najman Joanna 
Published: February 2015

AbstractApplications of the Helium (He) method known so far consisted mainly of 4He measurements using a special mass spectrometer. 4He measurements for groundwater dating purposes can be replaced by total He (3He+4He) concentration measurements because the content of 3He can be ignored. The concentrations of 3He are very low and 3He/4He ratios do not exceed 1.0·10−5 in most cases. In this study, the total He concentrations in groundwater were determined using the gas chromatographic (GC) method as an alternative to methods based on spectrometry measurement. He concentrations in groundwater were used for the determination of residence time and groundwater circulation. Additionally, the radiocarbon method was used to determine the value of the external He flux (JHe) in the study area. Obtained low He concentrations and their small variation within the ca. 65 km long section along which groundwater flows indicate that it is likely there is relatively short residence time and a strong hydraulic connection between the aquifers. The estimated residence time (ca. 3000 years) is heavily dependent on the great uncertainty of the He concentration resulting from the low concentrations of He, the external 4He flux value adopted for calculation purposes and the 14C ages used to estimate the external 4He flux.
The occlusion effects in capacitive contact imaging for in vivo skin damage assessments
Authors: Pan W. , Zhang X. , Lane M. , Xiao P. 
Published: February 2015

SynopsisObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the occlusion effects in capacitive contact imaging, and to develop a new quantitative methodology for in vivo skin assessments using capacitive contact imaging and condenser‐TEWL (transepidermal water loss) method.MethodsTwo measurement technologies were used in this study, i.e., capacitive contact imaging and condenser‐TEWL method. Three types of skin damages were studied, intensive washes, tape stripping and sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) irritation. The test skin sites were chosen on the volar forearms of healthy volunteers (aged 25–45); the measurements were taken both before and periodically after the damages.ResultsThe results show that the time‐dependent occlusion curves of the capacitive contact imaging can reflect the types of damages, and by analysing the shapes of the curves, we can get information about the skin surface water content level and stratum corneum thickness. The results also show that the combination of capacitive contact imaging and condenser‐TEWL method gives extra information about the skin damages, such as the types of the damages and status of the damages.ConclusionWe have developed a potential new quantitative methodology for skin damage assessments using capacitive contact imaging and condenser‐TEWL method. The combination of the two technologies can provide useful information for skin damage assessments. We have also developed a mathematical model for analysing the occlusion curves.
The incidence of complications associated with lip and/or tongue piercings: a systematic review
Authors: Hennequin‐Hoenderdos NL , Slot DE , Van der Weijden GA 
Published: February 2015

AbstractObjectiveThis review determines the incidence of complications associated with lip and/or tongue piercings based on a systematic evaluation of the available literature.Material and MethodsMEDLINE–PubMed, Cochrane‐CENTRAL and EMBASE databases were comprehensively searched through June 2014 to identify appropriate studies. The incidence of complications, as established by a dental professional associated with oral and peri‐oral piercings, was evaluated in populations with lip and/or tongue piercings. The quality of the case–control studies was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. For case series studies, the risk of bias was assessed using the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence scale.ResultsAn independent screening of 1580 unique titles and abstracts revealed 15 publications that met the eligibility criteria. The incidence of gingival recessions appeared to be 50% in subjects with lip piercings and 44% in subjects with a tongue piercing. Tooth injuries were observed in 26% individuals with lip piercings and in up to 37% of individuals with tongue piercings. Subjects with a lip piercing were 4.14 times (P = 0.005) more likely to develop gingival recession than those without a lip piercing. Subjects with a tongue piercing were more likely than non‐pierced subjects to experience gingival recession (relative risk (RR) 2.77; P = 0.00001) and tooth injuries (RR 2.44; P = 0.003).ConclusionBoth lip and tongue piercings are highly associated with the risk of gingival recession, and tongue piercings are also associated with tooth injuries.
The effect of the angle of instrumentation of the Piezoelectric Ultrasonic Scaler on root surfaces
Authors: Oliveira GJPL , Macedo PD , Tsurumaki JN , Sampaio JE , Marcantonio RAC 
Published: February 2015

AbstractObjectivesTo evaluate the influence of variations in the working angle of the piezoelectric ultrasonic scaler (PUS) on root surfaces.Material and methodsFifty‐five uniradicular bovine teeth were used, of which 25 teeth were used for the analysis of the roughness and root wear, while the remaining 30 teeth were used for the analysis of morphology (MRS) and the attachment of blood components (ABC). The teeth were randomly divided into five groups according to the type of treatment (G1‐G5: piezoelectric ultrasonic scaler; G6: manual curette) and to the PUS working angle applied (G1: 0°; G2: 30°; G3: 45°; G4: 60°; G5: 90°). For statistical analysis, the data describing the MRS and ABC were analysed by the Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn's tests, and the data describing the roughness and tooth wear were analysed by anova and Tukey's tests at the significance level of 5%.ResultsManual curette (MC) promoted a smoother root surface than the application of the PUS. The PUS used at the angles of 30° and 45° resulted in a high level of ABC that was comparable to that obtained by MC. Additionally, the group in which the PUS was applied at an angle of 45° exhibited less tooth wear than the other groups.ConclusionsChanges in the working angle of the PUS influenced the characteristics of root surfaces after instrumentation.
Functional Performance as a Predictor of Injurious Falls in Older Adults
Authors: Ward Rachel E. , Leveille Suzanne G. , Beauchamp Marla K. , Travison Thomas , Alexander Neil , Jette Alan M. , Bean Jonathan F. 
Published: February 2015

ObjectivesTo determine whether a performance battery and its components aid in predicting injurious falls.DesignLongitudinal analysis; prospective cohort study.SettingClinical site.ParticipantsBoston‐area community‐dwelling adults (N = 755; mean age ± SD 78.1 ± 5.4, 64.1% female, 77.6% white).MeasurementsBaseline functional performance was determined according to the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), measuring balance, gait speed, and five repeated chair stands. Fall history (past year) and efficacy in performing 10 daily activities without falling were assessed. Falls were assessed using a daily calendar over 4 years. Injurious falls were defined as resulting in fractures, sprains, dislocations, pulled or torn muscles, ligaments, or tendons or seeking medical attention.ResultsPoorest chair stand performance (≥16.7 seconds) was associated with greater hazard of injurious falls than in all other chair stand performance groups (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.96, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.18–3.26 for ≥ 16.7 vs. 13.7–16.6 seconds; HR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.07–2.55 for ≥ 16.7 vs. 11.2–13.6 seconds, HR = 1.60, 95% CI = 1.03–2.48 for ≥ 16.7 vs. <11.2 seconds). SPPB did not predict injurious falls. Fall history predicted injurious falls (HR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.39–2.39); falls efficacy did not. Fall history and a slow chair stand (<16.7 seconds) had a 2‐year cumulative incidence rate of an injurious fall of 46% (95% CI = 0.34–0.58), nearly the combined rate of a positive fall history (0.29, 95% CI = 0.25–0.34) and a slow chair stand alone (0.21, 95% CI = 0.13–0.30).ConclusionAn easily administered chair stand test may be sufficient for evaluating performance as part of a risk stratification strategy for injurious falls.
Unmet Needs of Caregivers of Individuals Referred to a Dementia Care Program
Authors: Jennings Lee A. , Reuben David B. , Evertson Leslie Chang , Serrano Katherine S. , Ercoli Linda , Grill Joshua , Chodosh Joshua , Tan Zaldy , Wenger Neil S. 
Published: February 2015

ObjectivesTo characterize caregiver strain, depressive symptoms, and self‐efficacy for managing dementia‐related problems and the relationship between these and referring provider type.DesignCross‐sectional observational cohort.SettingUrban academic medical center.ParticipantsCaregivers of community‐dwelling adults with dementia referred to a dementia care management program.MeasurementsCaregivers were surveyed and completed the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9) about themselves; the Modified Caregiver Strain Index; the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire, which measures patient symptom severity and related caregiver distress; and a nine‐item caregiver self‐efficacy scale developed for the study.ResultsOf 307 patient–caregiver dyads surveyed over a 1‐year period, 32% of caregivers reported confidence in managing dementia‐related problems, 19% knew how to access community services to help provide care, and 28% agreed that the individual's provider helped them work through dementia care problems. Thirty‐eight percent reported high levels of caregiver strain, and 15% reported moderate to severe depressive symptoms. Caregivers of individuals referred by geriatricians more often reported having a healthcare professional to help work through dementia care problems than those referred by internists, family physicians, or other specialists, but self‐efficacy did not differ. Low caregiver self‐efficacy was associated with higher caregiver strain, more caregiver depressive symptoms, and caring for an individual with more‐severe behavioral symptoms.ConclusionMost caregivers perceived inadequate support from the individual's provider in managing dementia‐related problems, reported strain, and had low confidence in managing caregiving. New models of care are needed to address the complex care needs of individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
Adverse Events in Mobility‐Limited and Chronically Ill Elderly Adults Participating in an Exercise Intervention Study Supported by General Practitioner Practices
Authors: Hinrichs Timo , Bücker Bettina , Wilm Stefan , Klaaßen‐Mielke Renate , Brach Michael , Platen Petra , Moschny Anna 
Published: February 2015

ObjectivesTo present detailed adverse event (AE) data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of a home‐based exercise program delivered to an elderly high‐risk population by an exercise therapist after medical clearance from a general practitioner (GP).DesignRandomized controlled trial.SettingGeneral practitioner practices and participant homes.ParticipantsCommunity‐dwelling, chronically ill, mobility‐limited individuals aged 70 and older (mean 80 ± 5) participating in a RCT of an exercise program (HOMEfit; ISRCTN17727272) (N = 209; n = 106 experimental, n = 103 control; 74% female).InterventionA 12‐week multidimensional home‐based exercise program (experimental) versus baseline physical activity counseling (control). An exercise therapist delivered both interventions to participants during counseling sessions at the GP's practice and on the telephone.MeasurementsAdverse events were documented at least at every counseling session and assessed by the GP and an AE manager.ResultsOne hundred fifty‐one AEs were reported in 47% (n = 99) of all participants. Twenty‐one (14%) events were classified as serious. In six events (4%; n = 4 experimental, n = 2 control), participation in the study had to be discontinued immediately. In 25 events (17%; n = 9 experimental, n = 16 control), the intervention had to be suspended. The intervention was determined to have caused two events (both nonserious and in the experimental group).ConclusionEven though the program appears to be safe, high morbidity unrelated to exercise can constitute a critical challenge for sustained exercise participation.
Schwann cells contribute to neurodegeneration in transthyretin amyloidosis
Authors: Murakami Tatsufumi , Sango Kazunori , Watabe Kazuhiko , Niimi Naoko , Takaku Shizuka , Li Zhenghua , Yamamura Ken‐ichi , Sunada Yoshihide 
Published: February 2015

AbstractFamilial amyloidotic polyneuropathy (FAP) is one of the transthyretin (TTR) amyloidoses characterized by extracellular amyloid deposits and peripheral nerve involvement. Recently, we found significant expression of the TTR gene in Schwann cells of the peripheral nervous system. We hypothesized that local expression of variant TTR in Schwann cells may contribute to neurodegeneration in FAP. Schwann cells derived from the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of transgenic mice expressing variant human TTR in a mouse null background were cultured long term to obtain spontaneously immortalized cell lines. We established an immortalized Schwann cell line, TgS1, derived from the transgenic mice. TgS1 cells synthesized variant TTR and secreted it into the medium. As sensory neuropathy usually arises early in FAP, we examined the effect of the conditioned medium derived from TgS1 cells on neurite outgrowth from DRG sensory neurons. Conditioned medium derived from TgS1 cells inhibited neurite outgrowth from the sensory neurons. TTR deposition in the DRG of aged transgenic mice was investigated by immunohistochemistry. TTR aggregates were observed in the cytoplasm of Schwann cells and satellite cells. Proteasome inhibition induced TTR aggregates as aggresomes in TgS1 cells. In conclusion, local variant TTR gene expression in Schwann cells might trigger neurodegeneration in FAP.
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We established a spontaneously immortalized Schwann cell line derived from familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy transgenic mice. Conditioned medium from the cells contained variant transthyretin (TTR), and inhibited neurite outgrowth of neurons. TTR aggregates were observed in the Schwann cells and satellite cells of aged mice. Proteasome inhibition induced TTR aggregates as aggresomes in the cultured cells. These results support the hypothesis that Schwann cells contribute to neurodegeneration in familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy (FAP).