bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical diagnosis of pandemic A(H1N1) 2009 influenza in children with negative rapid influenza diagnostic test by lymphopenia and lower C‐reactive protein levels
Authors: Wang Lin , Chang Ling‐Sai , Lee Ing‐Kit , Tang Kuo‐Shu , Li Chung‐Chen , Eng Hock‐Liew , You Huey‐Ling , Yang Kuender D. 
Published: November 2013

BackgroundThe sensitivity of rapid influenza diagnostic test (RIDT) of children with influenza‐like illness (ILI) remains low.ObjectiveWe compare the parameters between pandemic A(H1N1) 2009 influenza with negative RIDT and ILI not H1N1 for improving the low sensitivity of RIDT for children with ILI.MethodsIn a cohort of consecutive laboratory‐confirmed H1N1 influenza, we identified 150 H1N1 children with positive RIDT, 152 H1N1 children with negative RIDT, and 75 children with ILI not H1N1. Viral load in throat, complete blood count (CBC), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels between H1N1 children with negative RIDT and children with ILI not H1N1 were assessed.ResultsThe diagnostic sensitivity of the RIDT was 45·5%. An analysis of CBC and CRP levels indicated that H1N1 children with negative RIDT had lower total leukocyte, neutrophil, lymphocyte, and basophil counts, and serum CRP levels (P < 0·01). Lymphocyte counts less than 1500 cells/mm3 and CRP levels <15 mg/l, determined by a receiver operating characteristic curve, showed a diagnostic sensitivity of 52·5% and 80·7%, respectively. Combining the lymphocyte counts and CRP levels provided a diagnostic sensitivity of 91·5%. Moreover, H1N1 children with negative RIDT had a lower viral load than those with positive RIDT (3·33 versus 4·48 log10 copies/ml, P < 0·001); the viral load was negatively correlated to the lymphocyte count (P < 0·001).ConclusionsA combination of a low lymphocyte count and a low CRP level could, in the early disease phase, provide a useful screening for H1N1 children with false‐negative RIDT, potentially facilitating differential diagnoses.
Influenza outbreak control practices and the effectiveness of interventions in long‐term care facilities: a systematic review
Authors: Rainwater‐Lovett Kaitlin , Chun Kevin , Lessler Justin 
Published: November 2013

BackgroundEvaluation of influenza control measures frequently focuses on the efficacy of chemoprophylaxis and vaccination, while the effectiveness of non‐pharmaceutical interventions (NPI) receives less emphasis. While influenza control measures are frequently reported for individual outbreaks, there have been few efforts to characterize the real‐world effectiveness of these interventions across outbreaks.ObjectivesTo characterize influenza case and outbreak definitions and control measures reported by long‐term care facilities (LTCFs) of elderly adults and estimate the reduction in influenza‐like illness (ILI) attack rates due to chemoprophylaxis and NPI.MethodsWe conducted a literature search in PubMed including English‐language studies reporting influenza outbreaks among elderly individuals in LTCFs. A Bayesian hierarchical logistic regression model estimated the effects of control measures on ILI attack rates.ResultsOf 654 articles identified in the literature review, 37 articles describing 60 influenza outbreaks met the inclusion criteria. Individuals in facilities where chemoprophylaxis was used were significantly less likely to develop influenza A or B than those in facilities with no interventions [odds ratio (OR) 0·48, 95% CI: 0·28, 0·84]. Considered by drug class, adamantanes significantly reduced infection risk (OR 0·22, 95% CI: 0·12, 0·42), while neuraminidase inhibitors did not show a significant effect. Although NPI showed no significant effect, the results suggest that personal protective equipment may produce modest protective effects.ConclusionsOur results indicate pharmaceutical control measures have the clearest reported protective effect in LTCFs. Non‐pharmaceutical approaches may be useful; however, most data were from observational studies and standardized reporting or well‐conducted clinical trials of NPI are needed to more precisely measure these effects.
Appropriate physical activity and dietary intake achieve optimal metabolic control in older type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Huang Jui‐Hua , Cheng Fu‐Chou , Tsai Leih‐Ching , Lee Ning‐Yuean , Lu Yi‐Fa 
Published: November 2013

AbstractAims/IntroductionThe aim of the present study was to investigate an appropriate level of physical activity and optimal dietary intake in older type 2 diabetes patients.Materials and MethodsThe cross‐sectional study enrolled 210 older type 2 diabetes patients. Participants were interviewed to obtain information on physical activity, 24‐h dietary recall and typical weekly dietary patterns. Anthropometric measurements, and biochemical analysis of blood and urine were determined.ResultsModerate physical activity (either moderate leisure‐time physical activity or moderate physical activity level) and diet with protein intake of ≥0.8 g/kg/day were associated with lower glycated hemoglobin and triglyceride, higher high‐density lipoprotein, lower waist circumference, body mass index and body fat, as well as better serum magnesium and albumin levels in older diabetic patients. In contrast, inadequate protein intake was correlated with higher glycated hemoglobin, triglyceride, body fat percentage, waist circumference and body mass index. In addition, high physical activity with inadequate protein and magnesium intake might exacerbate magnesium deficiency, resulting in poor glycemic control in older diabetic patients. Furthermore, low physical activity and inadequate protein intake were linked with poor glycemic control, and lower high‐density lipoprotein, and higher triglyceride, body fat percentage, waist circumference and body mass index.ConclusionsModerate physical activity and adequate dietary protein intake (≥0.8 g/kg/day) might be the optimal recommendation for better metabolic control in older adults with type 2 diabetes.
The Imbalance of Th17 cells and CD4+CD25highFoxp3+ Treg cells in patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Ma L. , Xue H.‐B. , Guan X.‐H. , Shu C.‐M. , Wang F. , Zhang J.‐H. , An R.‐Z. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractBackgroundTh17/Treg imbalance is involved in several autoimmune, inflammatory and allergic reactions. Nevertheless, the possible contribution of Th17/Treg imbalance in atopic dermatitis (AD) remains unknown.ObjectiveTo explore the possible role of Th17/Treg imbalance in AD.MethodsTh17 and Treg cells percentage in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and skin specimens, specific transcription factor retinoic acid‐related orphan receptor (ROR)γt and Foxp3 mRNA levels in PBMCs, as well as Th17‐ and Treg‐related cytokines mRNA levels in PBMCs, serum concentrations, and expression levels in PBMCs culture supernatant after recombinant Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus antigen stimulation were detected in AD patients. Controls included patients with psoriasis, allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) and healthy donors.ResultsTh17 cells percentage, RORγt, IL‐17 and IL‐23 levels in peripheral circulation of AD patients were significantly higher than those in ACD patients and healthy controls, but lower than those of psoriasis patients. Treg cells percentage, Foxp3 and TGF‐β mRNA levels were reduced in AD patients compared with healthy controls, while there were no significant differences among AD, ACD and psoriasis patients. Th17 cells percentage, IL‐17 and IL‐23 levels were increased, while Treg cells percentage and TGF‐β level were decreased in AD lesion and PBMCs culture supernatant respectively. There was a negative association between Th17 and Treg cells percentage in AD patients. AD severity score positively correlated with Th17 cells percentage and Th17/Treg ratio, while negatively correlated with Treg cells percentage. Serum IgE levels positively correlated with Th17/Treg ratio.ConclusionIn AD, there exists an immune imbalance in Th17 and Treg cells, which may contribute to its pathogenesis and development.
Quality of reporting clinical trials published in five leading Sri Lankan medical journals
Authors: Abeysena Chrishantha , Poddalgoda Indeewari 
Published: November 2013

AbstractObjectivesTo assess the quality of reporting of clinical trials published in five leading Sri Lankan medical journals.MethodsSix medical journals were hand searched for clinical trials published from 1982 to 2011. Eligible criteria were all randomized and non‐randomized clinical trials conducted in humans. A checklist was developed based on CONSORT and TREND recommendations. Each study was independently evaluated by two reviewers. Outcome measures were presence of checklist items in published reports.ResultsFifteen randomized and 24 non‐randomized parallel group trials from 724 studies in five journals met the inclusion criteria. Out of 39 trials, 39 (97%) clearly described the objectives, 16 (41%) defined the periods of recruitment, 7 (18%) reported how sample size was determined, 10 (25.6%) reported the methods to enhance the quality of measurements, 20 (51%) reported baseline demographic and clinical characteristics of each group, 4 (10%) showed flow diagrams, 23 (69%) reported statistical methods used to compare groups for primary outcomes, 21 (54%) reported effect size, 4 (10%) reported its precision, and 20 (51%) interpreted the results in the context of current evidence, and 5 (13%) described the generalizability of the findings. Of the 15 randomized trials, only one (7%) reported sequence generation, 5 (33%) allocation concealment, 9 (60%) reported blinding status of participants or investigators, and 2 (13%) reported intention to treat analysis.ConclusionsReporting of several essential recommendations remained suboptimal. Education and training of trial methods and awareness of the CONSORT and TREND statements and more attention to the quality of reporting may improve matters.
Evidence‐based healthcare and the Cochrane Collaboration: An unfinished journey as yet!
Authors: Meyer Sascha 
Published: November 2013

AbstractObjectiveAlthough evidence‐based medicine and the Cochrane Collaboration have become key players in modern medicine, it is important to note that evidencebased medicine and the Cochrane Collaboration are confronted with a number of substantial challenges that need to be addressed. The aim of this work is to highlight some of these problems.MethodsThis comment is based on a semi‐structured literature review and my personal experience in the field of evidence‐based medicine.ResultsIn this comment, 3 important areas of controversy and conflict (“Improving the quality of Cochrane Review”; “Increasing the relevance to middle‐ and low‐income countries”; and “Keeping reviews up to date”) will be highlighted, and possible solutions will be presented.ConclusionWith the Cochrane Collaboration now having been at the forefront of promoting and implementing core principles of evidence‐based medicine, further organizational, political and administrative efforts will have to be put in place to further improve the impact of evidence‐based medicine in the field of health care. This process can best be realized through networking and cooperation of the medical community worldwide, irrespective of geographic origin. When successfully tackling the above mentioned issues and obstacles, the already amazing success story of evidence‐based medicine and the Cochrane Collaboration will grow even more substantial.
Finding and filling the gaps in the evidence with high quality clinical trials – the experience of one Cochrane Review Group
Authors: Jahnke Nikki , Remmington Tracey , Smyth Alan R 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThe Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group publishes systematic reviews of randomized trials for many genetic disorders. Given the rarity of these disorders, there are often few relevant trials to be included. Therefore, it is common for the reviews to be ‘empty’ and unable to present evidence which aids decision‐making in clinical practice. However, we do not regard this as negative; rather we see this as a challenge and an opportunity to influence the research agenda. We have several reviews which clearly illustrate the cycle of assessing the evidence base, identifying the lack of data, generating high quality research and incorporating the resulting data into the original systematic review.
Diversity of the Luciferin Binding Protein Gene in Bioluminescent Dinoflagellates – Insights from a New Gene in Noctiluca scintillans and Sequences from Gonyaulacoid Genera
Authors: Valiadi Martha , Iglesias‐Rodriguez Maria Debora 
Published: November 2013

AbstractDinoflagellate bioluminescence systems operate with or without a luciferin binding protein, representing two distinct modes of light production. However, the distribution, diversity, and evolution of the luciferin binding protein gene within bioluminescent dinoflagellates are not well known. We used PCR to detect and partially sequence this gene from the heterotrophic dinoflagellate Noctiluca scintillans and a group of ecologically important gonyaulacoid species. We report an additional luciferin binding protein gene in N. scintillans which is not attached to luciferase, further to its typical combined bioluminescence gene. This supports the hypothesis that a profound re‐organization of the bioluminescence system has taken place in this organism. We also show that the luciferin binding protein gene is present in the genera Ceratocorys, Gonyaulax, and Protoceratium, and is prevalent in bioluminescent species of Alexandrium. Therefore, this gene is an integral component of the standard molecular bioluminescence machinery in dinoflagellates. Nucleotide sequences showed high within‐strain variation among gene copies, revealing a highly diverse gene family comprising multiple gene types in some organisms. Phylogenetic analyses showed that, in some species, the evolution of the luciferin binding protein gene was different from the organism's general phylogenies, highlighting the complex evolutionary history of dinoflagellate bioluminescence systems.
Treatment of patients with dual hepatitis C virus and hepatitis B virus infection: Resolved and unresolved issues
Authors: Liu Chun‐Jen 
Published: November 2013

AbstractDual hepatitis C virus (HCV)/hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is not uncommon in HCV or HBV endemic areas and among subjects at risk of parenteral transmission. In patients dually infected with hepatitis C and B, the disease manifestations are usually more severe than those with either virus infection. In the past decade, the following issues have been resolved. In dually infected patients with active hepatitis C, combined pegylated interferon alfa plus ribavirin was effective, the treatment outcomes being similar to patients with HCV monoinfection. During long‐term follow‐up, the HCV response was sustained in around 97% of patients; and the long‐term outcomes including the development of hepatocellular carcinoma and liver‐related mortality were improved. However, several clinical issues remain to be resolved. First, host and viral factors influencing the long‐term outcomes and treatment options in patients with dual HCV/HBV infection await further studies. Second, about 60% of dually infected patients with baseline undetectable serum HBV DNA levels develop HBV reactivation after the start of treatment. How to prevent and treat HBV reactivation should be clarified. Third, about 30% of dually infected patients lose hepatitis B surface antigen at 5 years after the end of combination therapy; the mechanisms need further investigations. Fourth, the optimal treatment strategies for dually infected patients with active hepatitis B or established cirrhosis should be explored in future clinical trials. Finally, the role of new direct‐acting antiviral‐based therapy for the treatment of patients with dual HCV/HBV infection also remains to be evaluated.
Improvement of plant abiotic stress tolerance through modulation of the polyamine pathway
Authors: Shi Haitao , Chan Zhulong 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPolyamines (mainly putrescine (Put), spermidine (Spd), and spermine (Spm)) have been widely found in a range of physiological processes and in almost all diverse environmental stresses. In various plant species, abiotic stresses modulated the accumulation of polyamines and related gene expression. Studies using loss‐of‐function mutants and transgenic overexpression plants modulating polyamine metabolic pathways confirmed protective roles of polyamines during plant abiotic stress responses, and indicated the possibility to improve plant tolerance through genetic manipulation of the polyamine pathway. Additionally, putative mechanisms of polyamines involved in plant abiotic stress tolerance were thoroughly discussed and crosstalks among polyamine, abscisic acid, and nitric oxide in plant responses to abiotic stress were emphasized. Special attention was paid to the interaction between polyamine and reactive oxygen species, ion channels, amino acid and carbon metabolism, and other adaptive responses. Further studies are needed to elucidate the polyamine signaling pathway, especially polyamine‐regulated downstream targets and the connections between polyamines and other stress responsive molecules.
Course of Depressive Symptoms across Pregnancy in African American Women
Authors: Wilusz Matthew J. , Peters Rosalind M. , Cassidy‐Bushrow Andrea E. 
Published: November 2013

IntroductionAlthough African American women are at increased risk for antenatal depression, less is known regarding the course of antenatal depression symptoms among African American women. Because pregnancy is a state of rapid physical and mental changes, we examined if depression symptoms changed between the second and third trimesters in a sample of pregnant African American women.MethodsA nonprobability sample of women was recruited from obstetrics clinics within a large Midwestern health system. African American women in their second trimester (N = 189) completed an initial study visit; a convenience sample of 37 women (19.6%) completed a second identical study visit during their third trimester. The 20‐item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES‐D) was used to measure depressive symptoms; a CES‐D score of 16 or higher equates with clinical depression and a CES‐D score of 23 or higher indicates major depression. Paired t tests and correlation coefficients were used to estimate change in depression symptoms.ResultsMean (SD) second‐ and third‐trimester CES‐D scores were not statistically significantly different (15.3 [10.6] and 15.1 [10.3], respectively; P = .87) and were moderately and significantly correlated (r = 0.65; P <.001). Prevalence of CES‐D scores of 16 or higher was 43.2% (n = 16) in the second trimester and 37.8% (n = 14) in the third trimester, which was not significantly different (P = .77). Between the 2 visits, 67.6% (n = 25) were classified identically with a CES‐D scores of 16 or higher with only fair agreement between the 2 measures (kappa = 0.33). Prevalence of CES‐D scores of 23 or higher was 27.0% (n = 10) and 21.6% (n = 8) in the second and third trimesters, respectively, and was not significantly different (P = .69). Between the 2 visits, 83.8% (n = 31) were classified identically with CES‐D scores of 23 or higher, with moderate agreement between the 2 measures (kappa = 0.56).DiscussionDepression symptoms were relatively constant across the latter 2 trimesters of pregnancy. The second trimester may be an appropriate time to screen women for antenatal depression, as it is less likely to be affected by early‐pregnancy somatic events yet is early enough that intervention may impart positive health benefits for mother and child.
Powdery Mildew on Mulberry in Yunnan, China is Distinct from Other Phyllactinia spp. on Morus
Authors: Wang Jing‐Jie , Yang Li , Qiu Xin , Fan Rui , Ao Xiang , Zhou Wei , Li Jing‐Hua , Zhao Dong‐Yang , Wan Yong‐Ji 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThe occurrence of an epidemic outbreak of a powdery mildew disease on mulberry in Yunnan province, China, is reported. Its symptoms are characteristic for powdery mildews and visible as white pathches covering the abaxial surfaces of leaves leading to chlorosis and necrosis. The pathogen is morphologically barely distinguishable from Phyllactinia moricola. However, it exhibits several new morphological characteristics which 2–3 conidia could be formed in short chains at the apex of the conidiophores and the conidia could produce two germ tubes in any position. Phylogenetic analyses of ITS sequences show that the pathogen has a close genetic relationship with P. moricola and Ph. broussonetiae‐kaempferi, two species on hosts belonging to family Moraceae. However, the ITS differences between Japanese sequences and the Chinese sequence derived from mulberry are greater than expected for a single species and suggest a cryptic species in China, but the present data are not sufficient for a final conclusion. Therefore, the Morus powdery mildew in Yunnan can currently only be classified as Phyllactinia sp. Morphological features, including conidial germination pattern of this powdery mildew are described in detail, and the local climatic conditions of the disease are analysed, which will provide the base for finding an effective method, including bio‐control, to control the disease under local conditions.
Liquiritigenin exhibits antitumour action in pituitary adenoma cells via Ras/ERKs and ROS-dependent mitochondrial signalling pathways
Authors: Wang Di , Wong Hei-Kiu , Feng Yi-Bin , Zhang Zhang-Jin 
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Objective
The purpose of this study was to investigate antitumour effects of liquiritigenin (LQ) on pituitary adenoma in in-vitro and in-vivo models.

Methods
The effects of LQ on cell viability, apoptosis rate, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and various apoptosis-related mediators were examined in MMQ and GH3 cells that are derived from rat pituitary adenoma. Antitumour effect of LQ was also examined in the mouse model of GH3-xenografted tumour.

Key findings
LQ inhibited cell viability, caused G1 phase arrest and initiated apoptosis in both MMQ and GH3 cells. LQ dissipated MMP, increased intracellular ROS level and cytosol cytochrome C, and reduced the expression of Ras, B-cell lymphoma 2 and B-cell lymphoma-extra large. LQ also inhibited the activation of extracellular signalling-regulated kinases (ERKs) and the translocation of from cytoplasm to nucleus. LQ markedly reduced tumour size without affecting bodyweight in mice with GH3 cells xenograft.

Conclusions
LQ effectively inhibits pituitary adenoma tumour growth and induces cell apoptotic death mainly via Ras/ERKs and ROS-dependent mitochondrial pathways, suggesting that LQ is a potential suppressor of pituitary adenoma.
Clinical practice guidelines—Nursing management for pediatric patients with small bowel or multivisceral transplant
Authors: Bodeur Cynthia , Aucoin Julia , Johnson Raeanne , Garrison Kaitlyn , Summers Amanda , Schutz Kristen , Davis Megan , Woody Sherri , Ellington Kelly 
Published: November 2013

AbstractPurposeSmall bowel or multivisceral transplant is a relatively new treatment for irreversible intestinal damage, and no published practice guidelines exist. The purpose of this article is to report evidence regarding the best plan of care to achieve adequate nutrition and appropriate development for children.Design and MethodsAn integrative review was conducted with 54 articles related to management of this transplant population. A nine‐member nursing team integrated the findings.Practice ImplicationsThis resulting guideline represents the best research and best practices on which to base staff education and competency validations to manage this medically fragile patient population.