bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Platelet‐Rich Fibrin–Reinforced Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access Technique for Recession Coverage
Authors: Gupta Geeti , Puri Komal , Bansal Mansi , Khatri Manish , Kumar Ashish 
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Gingival recession (GR) presents with breakdown of both soft and hard tissues and can cause major functional and esthetic problems. Treatment of GR, especially multiple recession defects, presents a challenge because several recession defects must be treated at a single surgical session to minimize patient discomfort. New materials and techniques are currently being developed to obtain predictable root coverage. This case series describes the use of the vestibular incision subperiosteal tunnel access (VISTA) technique in combination with platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) membrane in the treatment of GR defects. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report on the use of the PRF membrane–reinforced VISTA technique.Case Series: Four patients with multiple GRs were selected for this case series. The VISTA technique allowed coronal repositioning of the gingival margin, which was then stabilized by the coronally anchored suturing technique. PRF membrane was inserted inside the subperiosteal tunnel, and the vertical incision was sutured. Patients were kept under observation for 6 months.Conclusion: This use of PRF membrane along with the VISTA technique allows clinicians to successfully treat multiple GR defects.
Blood Pressure and Pulse Pressure Effects on Renal Outcomes in the Veterans Affairs Diabetes Trial (VADT)
Authors: Anderson Robert J. , Bahn Gideon D. , Emanuele Nicholas V. , Marks Jennifer B. , Duckworth William C. ,   for the VADT Study Group
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE
Blood pressure (BP) control for renal protection is essential for patients with type 2 diabetes. Our objective in this analysis of Veterans Affairs Diabetes Trial (VADT) data was to learn whether on-study systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), and pulse pressure (PP) affected renal outcomes measured as albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
The VADT was a prospective, randomized study of 1,791 veterans with type 2 diabetes to determine whether intensive glucose control prevented major cardiovascular events. In this post hoc study, time-varying covariate survival analyses and hazard ratios (HR) were used to determine worsening of renal outcomes.

RESULTS
Compared with SBP 105–129 mmHg, the risk of ACR worsening increased significantly for SBP 130–139 mmHg (HR 1.88 [95% CI 1.28–2.77]; P = 0.001) and for SBP ≥140 mmHg (2.51 [1.66–3.78]; P &lt; 0.0001). Compared with a PP range of 40–49 mmHg, PP &lt;40 was associated with significantly lowered risk of worsening ACR (0.36 [0.15–0.87]; P = 0.022) and PP ≥60 with significantly increased risk (2.38 [1.58–3.59]; P &lt; 0.0001). Analyses of BP ranges associated with eGFR worsening showed significantly increased risk with rising baseline SBP and an interaction effect between SBP ≥140 mmHg and on-study A1C. These patients were 15% more likely than those with SBP &lt;140 mmHg to experience eGFR worsening (1.15 [1.00–1.32]; P = 0.045) for each 1% (10.9 mmol/mol) A1C increase.

CONCLUSIONS
SBP ≥130 mmHg and PP &gt;60 mmHg were associated with worsening ACR. The results suggest that treatment of SBP to &lt;130 mmHg may lessen ACR worsening. The interaction between SBP ≥140 mmHg and A1C suggests that the effect of glycemic control on reducing progression of renal disease may be greater in hypertensive patients.
R&D productivity in Europe: towards a regional taxonomy in the European Union
Authors: Aguado Ricardo , Martínez López Jabier 
Published: July 2014

Research, development and innovation activities have become key sources of competitive advantage, which is one of the main factors behind the wellbeing of citizens living in a given territory. Being aware of this fact, public administrations at different administrative levels have encouraged the production of innovations through public policies. If we focus in Europe, regional disparities in the amount of innovation inputs and outputs are very high.
In this paper, the authors will measure the productivity of research and development activities performed by all regions in the EU. In order to do so, authors will take into account some indicators to measure innovation inputs and outputs at the regional level. Using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) authors will measure regional productivity in the field of R&D and then compare this productivity outcome between regions in the EU. After explaining this first DEA model, authors will use cluster analysis to achieve a typology of regions regarding their productivity in R&D activities. With all these results, policy makers could compare the situation of their own regions and adapt policies of efficient regions to their own institutional and economic background in the field of R&D.
Automatic syllable segmentation of Myanmar texts using finite state transducer
Authors: Hlaing Tin Htay , Mikami Yoshiki 
Published: July 2014

Automatic syllabification lies at the heart of script processing especially for the South East Asian scripts like Myanmar. Myanmar syllabification algorithms implemented so far are either rule-based or dictionary-based approach. This paper proposes a new method for Myanmar syllabification which deploys formal grammar and un-weighted finite state transducers (FST). Our proposed method focuses on orthographic way of syllabification for the input texts encoded in Unicode. We tackle syllabification of Myanmar words with standard syllable structure as well as words with irregular structures such as kinzi, consonant stacking which have not been resolved by previous methods. Our FST based syllabifier was tested on 11,732 distinct words contained in Myanmar Orthography Corpus. These words yielded 32,238 syllables and are compared with correctly hand syllabified words. Our FST based syllabification method performs with99.93% accuracy on Stuttgart FST (SFST) tools. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/icter.v6i2.7150 International Journal on Advances in ICT for Emerging Regions (ICTer), 2013;v.6(2)
Roles and Regulation of Gastrointestinal Eosinophils in Immunity and Disease
Authors: Jung YunJae , Rothenberg Marc E. 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Eosinophils have historically been considered to be destructive end-stage effector cells that have a role in parasitic infections and allergic reactions by the release of their granule-derived cytotoxic proteins. However, an increasing number of experimental observations indicate that eosinophils also are multifunctional leukocytes involved in diverse inflammatory and physiologic immune responses. Under homeostatic conditions, eosinophils are particularly abundant in the lamina propria of the gastrointestinal tract, where their involvement in various biological processes within the gastrointestinal tract has been posited. In this review, we summarize the molecular steps involved in eosinophil development and describe eosinophil trafficking to the gastrointestinal tract. We synthesize the current findings on the phenotypic and functional properties of gastrointestinal eosinophils and the accumulating evidence that they have a contributory role in gastrointestinal disorders, with a focus on primary eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders. Finally, we discuss the potential role of eosinophils as modulators of the intestinal immune system.
Dendritic Cell–Derived Exosomes as Immunotherapies in the Fight against Cancer
Authors: Pitt Jonathan M. , Charrier Mélinda , Viaud Sophie , André Fabrice , Besse Benjamin , Chaput Nathalie , Zitvogel Laurence 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Exosomes are nanometric membrane vesicles of late endosomal origin released by most, if not all, cell types as a means of sophisticated intercellular communication. A multitude of studies showed how exosomes can mediate and regulate immune responses against tumors. Dendritic cell–derived exosomes (Dex) have received much attention as immunotherapeutic anticancer agents since the discovery that they harbor functional MHC–peptide complexes, in addition to various other immune-stimulating components, that together facilitate immune cell–dependent tumor rejection. The therapeutic potential of Dex has been substantiated with their development and clinical testing in the treatment of cancer. This review focuses on mechanisms by which Dex interact with and influence immune cells and describes how they can be engineered to promote their immunogenic capacity as novel and dynamic anticancer agents.
Effectiveness of Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation as Adjuvant Therapy for Refractory Glaucoma in Keratoprosthesis Patients
Authors: Wang Dajiang , Yu Jifeng , Tian Lei , Wang Liqiang , Huang Yifei 
Published: July 2014

Purpose To evaluate the efficacy and safety of diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (DLTSC) as an adjuvant therapy to treat refractory glaucoma diagnosed before or after Moscow Eye Microsurgery Complex (MICOF) keratoprosthesis surgery. Methods Fifteen patients underwent unilateral DLTSC to treat refractory glaucoma diagnosed before or after undergoing MICOF keratoprosthesis surgery. The cause for keratoprosthesis was alkali burn in 8 patients (53.33%); thermal burn, sulfuric acid burn, and Steven-Johnson syndrome in 2 patients (13.33%) each; and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid in 1 patient (6.67%). Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), any medications, and adverse events were recorded before DLTSC and on postoperative day 7; months 1, 3, and 6; and every 6 months afterwards. Results The patients were followed up for an average of 13.15 ± 9.35 months. The IOP was significantly less at postoperative months 6, 12, 24, and 36. There were no changes in BCVA after DLTSC. No significant changes in medication to treat ocular hypertension were prescribed. Conclusions Diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation is an effective treatment option for refractory glaucoma and can be used as a therapy adjuvant to keratoprosthesis. Long-term effects require further clinical observation.
A Safe Technique for In-The-Bag Intraocular Lens Implantation in Pediatric Cataract Surgery
Authors: Khokhar Sudarshan , Sharma Reetika , Patil Bharat , Sinha Gautam , Nayak Bhagabat , Kinkhabwala Ravish Akhilkumar 
Published: July 2014

Purpose To describe a safe technique for in-the-bag intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in pediatric cataract patients who undergo lens aspiration with primary posterior capsulorhexis and anterior vitrectomy. Methods Sixty eyes of 45 consecutive patients with congenital/developmental cataract underwent lens aspiration with primary posterior continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (PCCC) with anterior vitrectomy and in-the-bag IOL implantation using the described technique of IOL implantation using anterior capsule as support. Results All eyes had stable IOL at the end of surgery and none of the eyes had lens decentration/dislocation in posterior vitreous. Conclusions Implantation of in-the-bag IOL is difficult in children who undergo primary PCCC with anterior vitrectomy. Our technique of implanting IOL by pushing it against the back surface of anterior capsule is a safe method and results in no complications related to faulty IOL implantation.
Intravitreal Bevacizumab for Choroidal Neovascularization Secondary to Angioid Streaks: A Long-Term Follow-Up Study
Authors: Rosina Chiara , Romano Mary , Cigada Mario , de Polo Laura , Staurenghi Giovanni , Bottoni Ferdinando 
Published: July 2014

Purpose To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) to treat choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in patients with angioid streaks. Methods Retrospective chart review of 16 eyes of 10 patients treated with IVB for CNV secondary to angioid streaks between November 2005 and November 2011. Intravitreal bevacizumab was performed in all patients with a pro re nata regimen. Seven eyes received an additional photodynamic therapy and 1 eye argon laser photocoagulation. The diagnosis of CNV was confirmed by fluorescein angiography (FA) and indocyanine green (ICG) angiography; central macular thickness (CMT) was evaluated by optical coherence tomography. Outcome measures included changes in best-corrected visual acuity, retinal thickness, and degree of leakage on FA and ICG angiography. Results The median number of IVB was 2.5 (range 1-6) during a mean follow-up of 52 months (range 30-67). Risk of recurrence increased during the first 50 weeks; then it remained stable. In 6 of 16 eyes, the CNV was obliterated with a single injection. Increasing CNV reactivation corresponded with an increased number of injections. Final visual acuity was related to initial VA and not to number of injections or shorter follow-up. Previous treatments, CMT, or baseline CNV size were not related to final visual acuity. Conclusions Intravitreal bevacizumab proved to be well-tolerated in patients with CNV secondary to angioid streaks and in our small cohort IVB was efficacious for long-term follow-up. Larger series of patients are needed to confirm the effects of this treatment.
Late Postoperative Capsular Block Syndrome: A Case Series Studied before and after Nd:YAG Laser Posterior Capsulotomy
Authors: Huerva Valentín , Sánchez M. Carmen , Ascaso Francisco J. , Soldevila Jordi 
Published: July 2014

Purpose To evaluate the clinical characteristics of the unusual late postoperative capsular block syndrome (CBS) and the effect of Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy on visual acuity and refractive error as well as its possible complications. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, 12 eyes of 11 patients with late CBS who had undergone Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy were reviewed. A complete ophthalmic examination including Scheimpflug camera and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) imaging had been performed before and after posterior capsulotomy. Results The mean time between cataract surgery and posterior capsulotomy was 4.7 ± 1.5 years (range 3-9 years). Best-corrected visual acuity increased in 11 cases (91.7%). Only one eye showed a 0.5-D hyperopic shift following posterior capsulotomy. There were no postlaser complications such as increased intraocular pressure (IOP), severe inflammation, cystoid macular edema, or retinal detachment. In all patients, the posterior capsule was vaulted posteriorly and could not be seen clearly. The AS-OCT confirmed CBS in the studied cases, demonstrating a distended capsular bag. Rotating Scheimpflug imaging examination showed the white substance located behind the intraocular lens (IOL). Conclusions Late CBS is usually not accompanied by shallow anterior chamber, forward IOL displacement, or raised IOP. Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy is a useful treatment and the prognosis of patients with this complication appears favorable. Furthermore, although AS-OCT measurements are easier to obtain than rotating Scheimpflug imaging examination, both are useful to visualize the distended capsular bag containing the white material and the IOL position.
Challenges and solutions in the fixation of a hip fracture in the presence of a contralateral ankylosed hip: a case report
Authors: Davidson Donald J. , Muoneke Hyginus , Huber Chris P. 
Published: July 2014

Background An intracapsular femoral neck fracture is a common orthopaedic presentation and requires expedient fixation in a young adult. This case demonstrates how patient-specific factors, namely an ankylosed contralateral hip, can make a common operation challenging. Case Description A 22-year-old man with osteogenesis imperfecta and multiple bony deformities was brought to A&E after being involved in a motor vehicle collision. Plain radiographs and clinical examination demonstrated a right intracapsular femoral neck fracture, ipsilateral femora vara and a contralateral ankylosed hip secondary to protrusio acetabuli. The intraoperative patient and fluoroscopic positioning were technically challenging. Clinical Relevance Preoperative literature review revealed no operative strategy or case report describing how best to perform closed reduction and internal fixation of a femoral neck fracture with a co-existing contralateral ankylosed hip joint. We hope our experience will aid other surgeons who find themselves in a similar clinical scenario. We will present the difficulties faced and the adaptations made to our surgical technique which we utilised to achieve an anatomical fixation.
Developing a sustainable hip service in Cambodia
Authors: Holt Jacquelyn A. , Aird James J. , Gollogly James G. , Ngiep Ou C. , Gollogly Sohrab 
Published: July 2014

Objective Initial report on establishment of a hip service in Phnom Penh, Cambodia at Children's Surgical Centre. We describe indications for total hip replacement (THR) and initial results. Methods A database was established to collect data and track patients for follow up. Initial data collected included; diagnosis, implant used, post-operative complications. As the service developed, pre- and postoperative Harris hip scores were included. Results High rate of avascular necrosis (AVN) as the initial diagnosis. Five years post initiation of the hip service, 95 patients have received 116 THRs; including 10 revisions, 12 bilateral procedures. Complications/failures requiring revision involved four prosthetic femoral neck fractures, two aseptic acetabular component, two late infections, one instability. One failure, a periprosthetic acetabular fracture, required removal of all prosthetics. Complications not requiring revision, included three post-op foot drops, three superficial wound infections, one Vancouver B1 periprosthetic femur fracture. Average age was 41. Overall implant survival is 85% at three years. Discussion AVN was the most common indication for THR: many patients had a history of hip trauma, and/or prolonged steroids from traditional healers for pain. Problems with specific implants were addressed by the company. A different stem is now routinely used, no further fractures have been reported. Acetabular loosening, thought to be due to poor technique, has been addressed by focused training. Infection rate is monitored, and microbiology resources are improving. Conclusion Developing an affordable hip arthroplasty service in a country like Cambodia is challenging. Developing a local registry has helped to identify complications and modify techniques.
Cement Brand and Preparation Effects Cement-in-Cement Mantle Shear Strength
Authors: Holsgrove Timothy P. , Pentlow Alanna , Spencer Robert F. , Miles Anthony W. 
Published: July 2014

Creating bi-laminar cement mantles as part of revision hip arthroplasty is well-documented but there is a lack of data concerning the effect of cement brand on the procedure. The aim of this study was to compare the shear strength of bi-laminar cement mantles using various combinations of two leading bone cement brands. Bi-laminar cement mantles were created using Simplex P with Tobramycin, and Palacos R+G: Simplex-Simplex (SS); Simplex-Palacos (SP); Palacos-Simplex (PS); and Palacos-Palacos (PP). Additionally, specimens were produced by rasping (R) the surface of the original mantle, or leaving it unrasped (U), leading to a total of eight groups (n = 10). Specimens were loaded in shear, at 0.1 mm/min, until failure, and the maximum shear strength calculated. The highest mean shear strength was found in the PSU and PSR groups (23.69 and 23.89 MPa respectively), and the lowest in the PPU group (14.70 MPa), which was significantly lower than all but two groups. Unrasped groups generally demonstrated greater standard error than rasped groups. In a further comparison to assess the effect of the new cement mantle brand, irrespective of the brand of the original mantle, Simplex significantly increased the shear strength compared to Palacos with equivalent preparation. It is recommended that the original mantle is rasped prior to injection of new cement, and that Simplex P with Tobramycin be used in preference to Palacos R+G irrespective of the existing cement type. Further research is needed to investigate more cement brands, and understand the underlying mechanisms relating to cement-in-cement procedures.
Pentoxifylline does not Alter the Concentration of Hepcidin in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Antunes Sandra A. , Vilela Rosana Q. , Vaz José D. , Canziani Maria Eugênia F. 
Published: July 2014

Introduction Anemia is a frequent condition in patients with chronic kidney disease due to a reduction in the production of erythropoietin. Patients with inflammation respond less well to treatment with erythropoietin, possibly because the increased production of hepcidin reduces the availability of iron for hematopoiesis. Some studies suggest that pentoxifylline has anti-inflammatory properties and could be used as adjuvant therapy in the treatment of anemia. Objective The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of pentoxifylline on serum hepcidin in chronic hemodialysis patients with inflammation. Methods 71 adult patients on hemodialysis with C-reactive protein (CRP) ≥0.5 mg/dl in screening tests; patients were randomized to the treatment group (oral pentoxifylline 400 mg/thrice-weekly) or the control group for 3 months follow-up. Results During the study, a decrease in hemoglobin, transferrin saturation, and hepcidin was observed in both groups. However, these reductions were related to the time and not to the drug. There was no difference in the concentrations of CRP, ferritin, and albumin over time in either group. Conclusions The use of this amount of pentoxifylline did not modify the serum levels of hepcidin in this population.
Retrograde Femoral vein Catheter Insertion. A New Approach for Challenging Hemodialysis Vascular Access
Authors: Gouda Zaghloul 
Published: July 2014

Introduction Venous catheters provide access for hemodialysis (HD) when patients do not have functioning access device. Obstruction of jugular, femoral or even external iliac vessels further depletes options. Subclavian approach is prohibited. Catheterization of inferior vena cava requires specialized equipment and skills. Purpose The purpose is to assess a new lifesaving HD vascular access approach for patients with nonfunctioning access device in the ordinary sites. This entails insertion of a retrograde temporary HD catheter in the superficial femoral vein, directing the catheter distally, toward the foot. Materials and methods We included six end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients retrospectively who are on regular renal replacement therapy and need urgent HD with nonfunctioning access device in the ordinary sites. Results Successful insertion of six retrograde femoral vein catheters in the superficial femoral vein. The mean catheter days were 2.5±0.5 days with one patient having 26 catheter days. The mean blood pump speed was 230.0±44.7 mL/min. Urea reduction ratio and Kt/ V at 3 hours HD session were 47% and 1.5, respectively, which increased with increasing session duration. The ultrafiltration volume was 2–3 L/session which increased up to 6 L/session in case of using slow low-efficiency dialysis. No major complications were observed during insertion or the postinsertion period except thigh pain in one patient and exit site infection in the case of long duration. Conclusions This is a newly applied lifesaving HD vascular access approach for selected ESRD patients with no available HD vascular access at the ordinary sites with accepted HD adequacy. It needs more evaluation and more studies.