bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells used for acute graft‐versus‐host disease prophylaxis
Authors: Kuzmina Larisa A. , Petinati Nataliya A. , Shipounova Irina N. , Sats Natalia V. , Bigildeev Alexey E. , Zezina Ekaterina A. , Popova Maria D. , Drize Nina J. , Parovichnikova Elena N. , Savchenko Valery G. 
Published: June 2015

AbstractBackgroundMultipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are used for prophylaxis of acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGvHD) after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT). Not all samples of MSC are efficient for aGvHD prevention. The suitability of MSCs for aGvHD prophylaxis was studied.MethodsMSCs were derived from the bone marrow (BM) of HCT donor and cultivated for no more than three passages. The characteristics of donor BM samples including colony‐forming unit fibroblast (CFU‐F) concentration, growth parameters of MSCs, and the relative expression levels (REL) of different genes were analyzed. MSCs were injected intravenously precisely at the moment of blood cell reconstitution.ResultsMSCs infusion induced a significant threefold decrease in aGvHD development and improved overall survival compared with the standard prophylaxis group. In ineffective MSC samples (9.4%), a significant decrease in total cell production and the REL of CSF1, FGFR1, and PDGFRB was observed. In all studied BM samples, the cumulative MSC production and CFU‐F concentrations decreased with age. The expression levels of FGFR2, PPARG, and VEGF differed by age.ConclusionsA universal single indicator for the prediction of MSC eligibility for aGvHD prophylaxis was not identified. A multiparameter mathematical model for selecting MSC samples effective for the prevention of aGvHD was proposed.
Decadal‐scale rates of reef erosion following El Niño‐related mass coral mortality
Authors: Roff George , Zhao Jian‐xin , Mumby Peter J. 
Published: June 2015

AbstractAs the frequency and intensity of coral mortality events increase under climate change, understanding how declines in coral cover may affect the bioerosion of reef frameworks is of increasing importance. Here, we explore decadal‐scale rates of bioerosion of the framework building coral Orbicella annularis by grazing parrotfish following the 1997/1998 El Niño‐related mass mortality event at Long Cay, Belize. Using high‐precision U‐Th dating and CT scan analysis, we quantified in situ rates of external bioerosion over a 13‐year period (1998–2011). Based upon the error‐weighted average U‐Th age of dead O. annularis skeletons, we estimate the average external bioerosion between 1998 and 2011 as 0.92 ± 0.55 cm depth. Empirical observations of herbivore foraging, and a nonlinear numerical response of parrotfish to an increase in food availability, were used to create a model of external bioerosion at Long Cay. Model estimates of external bioerosion were in close agreement with U‐Th estimates (0.85 ± 0.09 cm). The model was then used to quantify how rates of external bioerosion changed across a gradient of coral mortality (i.e., from few corals experiencing mortality following coral bleaching to complete mortality). Our results indicate that external bioerosion is remarkably robust to declines in coral cover, with no significant relationship predicted between the rate of external bioerosion and the proportion of O. annularis that died in the 1998 bleaching event. The outcome was robust because the reduction in grazing intensity that follows coral mortality was compensated for by a positive numerical response of parrotfish to an increase in food availability. Our model estimates further indicate that for an O. annularis‐dominated reef to maintain a positive state of reef accretion, a necessity for sustained ecosystem function, live cover of O. annularis must not drop below a ~5–10% threshold of cover.
Measurement challenges in shared decision making: putting the ‘patient’ in patient‐reported measures
Authors: Barr Paul J. , Elwyn Glyn 
Published: June 2015

AbstractMeasuring clinicians' shared decision‐making (SDM) performance is a key requirement given the intensity of policy interest in many developed countries – yet it remains one of the most difficult methodological challenges, which is a concern for many stakeholders. In thisViewpointArticle, we investigate the development of existing patient‐reported measures (PRMs) ofSDMidentified in a recent review. We find that patients were involved in the development of only four of the 13 measures. This lack of patient involvement inPRMdevelopment is associated with two major threats to content validity, common to all 13PRMs ofSDM: (i) an assumption of patient awareness of ‘decision points’ and (ii) an assumption that there is only one decision point in each healthcare consultation. We provide detailed examples of these threats and their impact on accurate assessment ofSDMprocesses and outcomes, which may hamper efforts to introduce incentives forSDMimplementation. We propose cognitive interviewing as a recommended method of involving patients in the design ofPRMs in the field ofSDMand provide a practical example of this approach.
The use of gene arrays and corresponding connectivity mapping (Cmap) to identify novel anti‐ageing ingredients
Authors: Gillbro J. M. , Merinville E. , Olsson M. , Al‐Bader T. , Klack A. , Visdal‐Johnsen L. , Mavon A. 
Published: June 2015

SynopsisObjectiveThe need for effective ‘anti‐ageing’ treatments, in particular for the management of photodamaged skin, prompted us to develop a novel method to identify new active ingredients. The model utilized a gene profiling study with corresponding connectivity mapping (Cmap) to identify novel anti‐ageing compounds using all‐trans retinoic acid (RA) as the lead compound due to its beneficial effect on photodamaged skin and skin firmness.MethodA vehicle‐controlled clinical study including nine healthy Caucasian female volunteers aged 57 ± 7 (mean ± SEM) exhibiting photodamage on their lower outer forearms was conducted. The volunteers applied RA once daily on photodamaged skin for 7 days, and biopsies were subjected to Affymetrix gene arrays. Connectivity mapping (Cmap), examining hundreds of gene expression profiles, was run on the gene signature of RA‐treated photodamaged skin to identify small bioactive compounds.ResultsAffymetrix gene array identified 19 genes significantly differentially expressed after application of RA. Corresponding Cmap analysis revealed six natural bioactive compounds including N‐acetyl aspartic acid (A‐A‐A) showing similar activity to RA on the differentially expressed genes identified.ConclusionBased on RA mimicking gene array activity, potential use within skincare on molecular size, safety assessment and sourcing, we identified the natural amino acid, A‐A‐A as a potential candidate to treat ageing skin.
Influence of facial skin ageing characteristics on the perceived age in a Russian female population
Authors: Merinville E. , Grennan G. Z. , Gillbro J. M. , Mathieu J. , Mavon A. 
Published: June 2015

SynopsisObjectiveThe desire for a youthful look remains a powerful motivator in the purchase of cosmetics by women globally. To develop an anti‐ageing solution that targets the need of end consumers, it is critical to understand which signs of ageing really matter to them and which influence their age perception. To date, such research has not been performed in a Russian population. The aim of this work was to identify the signs of ageing that contribute the most to an ‘older’ or ‘younger’ look for Russian women aged 40 years old and above.MethodsThe age of 203 Russian female volunteers was estimated from their standard photographs by a total of 629 female naïve assessors aged 20–65 years old. Perceived age data were related to 23 facial skin features previously measured using linear correlation coefficients. Differences in average severity of the correlating skin ageing features were evaluated between women perceived older and women perceived younger than their chronological age. Volunteers' responses to a ranking question on their key ageing skin concerns previously collected were analysed to provide an additional view on facial ageing from the consumer perspective.ResultsNine facial skin ageing features were found to correlate the most with perceived age out of the 23 measured. Such results showed the importance of wrinkles in the upper part of the face (crow's feet, glabellar, under eye and forehead wrinkles), but also wrinkles in the lower half of the face associated with facial sagging (upper lip, nasolabial fold). Sagging was confirmed of key importance to female volunteers aged 41–65 years old who were mostly concerned by the sagging of their jawline, ahead of under eye and crow's feet wrinkle. The severity of hyperpigmented spots, red and brown, was also found to contribute to perceived age although to a weaker extent.ConclusionBy providing a clear view on the signs of ageing really matter to Russian women who are aged 40 years old and above, this research offers key information for the development of relevant anti‐ageing solutions specifically targeting their needs and their desire to achieve younger‐looking skin.
Acetyl aspartic acid, a novel active ingredient, demonstrates potential to improve signs of skin ageing: from consumer need to clinical proof
Authors: Mavon A. 
Published: June 2015

SynopsisBackgroundThe megatrend of population ageing is leading to a growing demand for “anti‐ageing” treatments, especially to prevent or treat skin ageing. Facing an increasing offer, consumers are choosing more and more skin care products supported by a scientific rationale, active ingredients and clinical proof of efficacy.ObjectiveConsidering consumer expectations, this research led to the discovery of acetyl aspartic acid (A‐A‐A), a novel active ingredient to improve sagging skin and loss of skin firmness.ResultsThis supplement is featuring seven manuscripts aiming at presenting the research and investigations from consumer insights, discovery of A‐A‐A, its in vitro activity confirmation, safety assessment, formulation and its dermal absorption to the clinical proof of efficacy, investigated through two pilots' double bind randomized and placebo controlled studies on photo‐aged skin.ConclusionThis extensive research enabled us to discover A‐A‐A, as an active ingredient with potential to repair sign of skin ageing and supported by clinical proof of efficacy. This active ingredient will be soon launched in a commercial innovative skin care range, delivering desirable anti‐wrinkle and skin lifting benefits.
Free Trade Agreements, Institutions and the Exports of Eastern Partnership Countries
Authors: Gylfason Thorvaldur , Martínez‐Zarzoso Inmaculada , Wijkman Per Magnus 
Published: June 2015

AbstractFollowing popular protests at home and the fall of the government, Ukraine reversed course and joined Georgia and Moldova in signing Association Agreements in June 2014. This article has two main aims. First, using a gravity model of trade, it estimates the effects of deep and shallow free trade agreements for the EaP (Eastern Partnership) states with Russia and the EU respectively. Second, by relating the outcomes of the first estimation to the quality of institutions, proxied with the level of democracy and the level of corruption in the selected countries, the paper estimates the effect on exports of changes in the quality of institutions. The main results show that the EaP countries gain significantly from free trade agreements with the EU but little if anything from free trade agreements with Russia, and that improvements in the quality of institutions in EaP countries have played an important role in fostering exports.
Conformance to Depression Process Measures of Medicare Part B Beneficiaries in Primary Care Settings
Authors: Pfoh Elizabeth R. , Mojtabai Ramin , Bailey Jennifer , Weiner Jonathan P. , Dy Sydney M. 
Published: June 2015

ObjectivesTo evaluate conformance to depression screening, management, and outcome quality indicators and to evaluate individual characteristics associated with conformance to these indicators.DesignCross‐sectional study using electronic health record (EHR) data.SettingThirty‐four clinics in one healthcare system.ParticipantsMedicare beneficiaries aged 65 and older with at least one primary care visit between September 2010 and August 2012 (N = 5,000).MeasurementsSeven measures, current as of 2013, were found for which all the necessary specifications were available in the EHR: general screening, screening within 4 months of diagnosis, screening after stroke, screening after heart disease, depression reassessment, depression response, and depression remission. Multilevel logistic regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with conformance.ResultsScreening for depression in Medicare beneficiaries was low (17%). Conformance to measures varied from 10% for the depression response measure to 77% for the depression remission measure. In the adjusted regression analyses for the general screening (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.01–2.08), depression reassessment (AOR = 4.19, 95% CI = 1.16–15.19), and screening after heart disease (AOR = 5.57, 95% CI = 1.37–22.57) measures, black participants were more likely to be given care that conformed to the numerator criteria than white participants. A strong site effect was found, with 90% of the depression screens being administered at three sites.ConclusionOnly a small proportion of Medicare beneficiaries received the recommended screening and follow‐up care needed to conform to the quality measures for depression in the primary care setting. Further evaluation of measures of depression care should be conducted before these measures are implemented widely.
Postdischarge Communication Between Home Health Nurses and Physicians: Measurement, Quality, and Outcomes
Authors: Press Matthew J. , Gerber Linda M. , Peng Timothy R. , Pesko Michael F. , Feldman Penny H. , Ouchida Karin , Sridharan Sridevi , Bao Yuhua , Barron Yolanda , Casalino Lawrence P. 
Published: June 2015

ObjectivesTo use natural language processing (NLP) of text from electronic medical records (EMRs) to identify failed communication attempts between home health nurses and physicians, to identify predictors of communication failure, and to assess the association between communication failure and hospital readmission.DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingVisiting Nurse Service of New York (VNSNY), the nation's largest freestanding home health agency.ParticipantsMedicare beneficiaries with congestive heart failure who received home health care from VNSNY after hospital discharge in 2008–09 (N = 5,698).MeasurementsPatient‐level measures of communication failure and risk‐adjusted 30‐day all‐cause readmission.ResultsIdentification of failed communication attempts using NLP had high external validity (kappa = 0.850, P < .001). A mean of 8% of communication attempts failed per episode of home care; failure rates were higher for black patients and lower for patients from higher median income ZIP codes. The association between communication failure and readmission was not significant with adjustment for patient, nurse, physician, and hospital factors.ConclusionNLP of EMRs can be used to identify failed communication attempts between home health nurses and physicians, but other variables mostly explained the association between communication failure and readmission. Communication failures may contribute to readmissions in more‐serious clinical situations, an association that this study may have been underpowered to detect.
Reduced dopamine and glutamate neurotransmission in the nucleus accumbens of quinpirole‐sensitized rats hints at inhibitory D2 autoreceptor function
Authors: Escobar Angélica P. , Cornejo Francisca A. , Olivares‐Costa Montserrat , González Marcela , Fuentealba José A. , Gysling Katia , España Rodrigo A. , Andrés María E. 
Published: June 2015

AbstractDopamine from the ventral tegmental area and glutamate from several brain nuclei converge in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) to drive motivated behaviors. Repeated activation of D2 receptors with quinpirole (QNP) induces locomotor sensitization and compulsive behaviors, but the mechanisms are unknown. In this study, in vivo microdialysis and fast scan cyclic voltammetry in adult anesthetized rats were used to investigate the effect of repeated QNP on dopamine and glutamate neurotransmission within the NAc. Following eight injections of QNP, a significant decrease in phasic and tonic dopamine release was observed in rats that displayed locomotor sensitization. Either a systemic injection or the infusion of QNP into the NAc decreased dopamine release, and the extent of this effect was similar in QNP‐sensitized and control rats, indicating that inhibitory D2 autoreceptor function is maintained despite repeated activation of D2 receptors and decreased dopamine extracellular levels. Basal extracellular levels of glutamate in the NAc were also significantly lower in QNP‐treated rats than in controls. Moreover, the increase in NAc glutamate release induced by direct stimulation of medial prefrontal cortex was significantly lower in QNP‐sensitized rats. Together, these results indicate that repeated activation of D2 receptors disconnects NAc from medial prefrontal cortex and ventral tegmental area.
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Repeated administration of the dopamine D2 receptor agonist quinpirole (QNP) induces locomotor sensitization. We found that the NAc of QNP‐sensitized rats has reduced glutamate levels coming from prefrontal cortex together with a decreased phasic and tonic dopamine neurotransmission but a conserved presynaptic D2 receptor function. We suggest that locomotor sensitization is because of increased affinity state of D2 post‐synaptic receptors.
Outcome measures in neuromuscular disease: is the world still flat?
Authors: Lunn Michael P. , Van den Bergh Peter Y. K. 
Published: June 2015

AbstractValid, responsive, and meaningful outcome measures for the measurement of the impairment, activity limitations, and quality of life in patients with neuromuscular disease are crucial to identify the natural history of disease and benefits of therapy in clinical practice and trials. Although understanding of many aspects of neuromuscular diseases has advanced dramatically, the development of outcome measures has received less attention. The scales developed from Rasch theory by the PeriNomS Group represent the biggest significant shift in thought in neuromuscular outcome measures for decades. There remain problems with many of them, and further developments are required. However, incorporating them into our outcome sets for daily use and in clinical trials will lead to the more efficient capture of meaningful change and will result in better assessment of individuals and groups of patients in both clinical trials and neurological practice.
Resilience in families in which a member has been diagnosed with schizophrenia
Authors: Bishop M. , Greeff A. P. 
Published: June 2015

AbstractDue to the extensive focus of the literature on the burden placed on families in which a member has been diagnosed with a mental illness such as schizophrenia, there is a need to identify factors that may help these families to be resilient and adapt to their crisis. The aim of this study was to identify family resilience qualities in families in which a member has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. The study comprised 42 families, represented by 33 parents and 9 siblings of the diagnosed family member. Families were recruited from three support groups within the Cape Metropolitan area, Western Cape, South Africa. Qualitative data were obtained through an open‐ended question and quantitative data were collected with seven self‐report questionnaires. The following family resilience qualities were identified: family income; finding support in their community; family togetherness; family communication style during crises; affirming and supportive communication patterns; family hardiness; commitment to the family; reframing crises as a challenge; and an internal locus of control within the family. The findings may be used by professionals and support group facilitators to enhance the resilience and functioning of families living with a member with schizophrenia.Accessible summary
With approximately 1% of the world's population diagnosed with schizophrenia, it is clear that many families are affected when a member has been diagnosed. There is a need to identify factors that may help these families to be resilient.
The aim of this study was to identify family resilience qualities in families in which a member has been diagnosed with schizophrenia.
The following family resilience qualities were identified as resources that helped them to adapt to the many challenges put to them: family income, finding support in their community, the availability of hospitals, churches and professionals, family togetherness, family communication, family hardiness, commitment to the family, reframing crises as a challenge, and an internal locus of control within the family.
Due to the limited studies on resilience in families in which a member has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, we suggest that the current study may contribute to this literature and provide a more comprehensive look at resilience in these families. Furthermore, the current study may contribute to knowledge about factors and resources that are associated with resilience in families in which a member has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Finally, the findings of this study may be used in interventions to help families from different cultures and socio‐economic statuses to adapt and hence be resilient.
Range expansion of the invasive house mouseMus musculus domesticusinSenegal,WestAfrica: a synthesis of trapping data over three decades, 1983–2014
Authors: Dalecky Ambroise , Bâ Khalilou , Piry Sylvain , Lippens Cédric , Diagne Christophe A. , Kane Mamadou , Sow Aliou , Diallo Mamoudou , Niang Youssoupha , Konečný Adam , Sarr Nathalie , Artige Emmanuelle , Charbonnel Nathalie , Granjon Laurent , Duplantier Jean‐Marc , Brouat Carine 
Published: June 2015

AbstractThe worldwide intensification of human‐associated exchanges favours the multiplication of biological invasions. Among mammals, rodent species, including the house mouseMus musculus, are identified as major invaders with profound impacts on native biodiversity, human health and activities. Though contemporary rodent invasions are described on several islands, there are few data describing ongoing house mouse invasions in continental areas.We first outline the known picture of the distribution of the house mouse inAfrica. We then describe the ongoing range expansion of the house mouse inSenegal, in order to update its distribution area, assess the location of the invasion front, describe the spatio‐temporal dynamics of the invasion at the country scale and evaluate its impact on native small mammal communities.We briefly review the worldwide status of the house mouse, with special focus on its situation inAfrica. Focusing onSenegal, we then use historical records and a large body of spatio‐temporal indoor trapping data obtained from small mammal communities over the last 30 years to analyse the invasion dynamics of the subspecies at the scale of the country.The geographic range of the invasive house mouse is surprisingly poorly known in Africa. InSenegal, we document a large range expansion of the subspecies in human settlements over the whole country within the last 30 years. The invasion is still ongoing further east and south within the country, and has major consequences for small mammal communities and thus probably for risks associated with zoonotic diseases.