bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of pregnancy on the course of immune thrombocytopenia: a retrospective study of 118 pregnancies in 82 women
Authors: Loustau Valentine , Debouverie Odile , Canoui‐Poitrine Florence , Baili Lilia , Khellaf Mehdi , Touboul Claudine , Languille Laetitia , Loustau Marine , Bierling Philippe , Haddad Bassam , Godeau Bertrand , Pourrat Olivier , Michel Marc 
Published: June 2014

SummaryIn women with pre‐existing immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), the effect of pregnancy on the course of the disease is poorly known. We performed a dual‐centre retrospective cohort study of 118 pregnancies in 82 women with primary ITP. In early pregnancy, the platelet count was <100 × 109/l in 35·6% of pregnancies. During pregnancy the median platelet count nadir was 66 × 109/l (25th–75th percentile: 42–117), with platelet count <30 × 109/l for 26 pregnancies (22%). In 49% of pregnancies, a significant decrease of the platelet count required treatment at least transiently in preparation for delivery. At the time of delivery, the median platelet count was 110 × 109/l (77–155). Compared to before pregnancy, at 3 months post‐partum, only 11% of pregnancies [95% confidence interval (95% CI): 6·8–20·2] showed disease worsening. Previous splenectomy was the only factor significantly associated with ITP worsening after pregnancy (53·9% vs. 10·3%, P < 0·001). For 8·3% of the pregnancies (95% CI: 3·8–15·1), neonatal thrombocytopenia required treatment, especially in case of previous maternal splenectomy (adjusted odds ratio 16·7, 95% CI: 2·61–106). The overall risk of exacerbation of ITP and severe thrombocytopenia during pregnancy is acceptable.
Long‐term follow‐up of a multicentre randomised controlled trial comparing tension‐free vaginal tape, xenograft and autologous fascial slings for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women
Authors: Khan Zainab A. , Nambiar Arjun , Morley Roland , Chapple Christopher R. , Emery Simon J. , Lucas Malcolm G. 
Published: June 2014

ObjectiveTo compare the long‐term outcomes of a tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT; Gynecare™, Somerville, NJ, USA), autologous fascial sling (AFS) and xenograft sling (porcine dermis, Pelvicol™; Bard, Murray Hill, NJ, USA) in the management of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI).Patients and MethodsA multicentre randomised controlled trial carried out in four UK centres from 2001 to 2006 involving 201 women requiring primary surgery for SUI. The women were randomly assigned to receive TVT, AFS or Pelvicol. The primary outcome was surgical success defined as ‘women reporting being completely ‘dry’ or ‘improved’ at the time of follow‐up’. The secondary outcomes included ‘completely dry’ rates, changes in the Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (BFLUTS) and EuroQoL EQ‐5D questionnaire scores.ResultsIn all, 162 (80.6%) women were available for follow‐up with a median (range) duration of 10 (6.6–12.6) years. ‘Success’ rates for TVT, AFS and Pelvicol were 73%, 75.4% and 58%, respectively. Comparing the 1‐ and 10‐year ‘success’ rates, there was deterioration from 93% to 73% (P < 0.05) in the TVT arm and 90% to 75.4% (P < 0.05) in the AFS arm; ‘dry’ rates were 31.7%, 50.8% and 15.7%, respectively. Overall, the ‘dry’ rates favoured AFS when compared with Pelvicol (P < 0.001) and TVT (P = 0.036). The re‐operation rate for persistent SUI was 3.2% (two patients) in the TVT arm, 13.1% (five) in the Pelvicol arm, while none of the patients in the AFS arm required further intervention.ConclusionsOur study indicates there is not enough evidence to suggest a difference in long‐term success rates between AFS and TVT. However, there is some evidence that ‘dry’ rates for AFS may be more durable than TVT.
Exogenous administration of thiosulfate, a donor of hydrogen sulfide, attenuates angiotensin II‐induced hypertensive heart disease in rats
Authors: Snijder P M , Frenay A R , de Boer R A , Pasch A , Hillebrands J L , Leuvenink H G D , van Goor H 
Published: June 2014

Background and PurposeHypertension is an important mediator of cardiac damage and remodelling. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an endogenously produced gasotransmitter with cardioprotective properties. However, it is not yet in clinical use. We, therefore, investigated the protective effects of sodium thiosulfate (STS), a clinically applicable H2S donor substance, in angiotensin II (Ang II)‐induced hypertensive cardiac disease in rats.Experimental ApproachMale Sprague Dawley rats were infused with Ang II (435 ng kg min−1) or saline (control) for 3 weeks via s.c. placed osmotic minipumps. During these 3 weeks, rats received i.p. injections of either STS, NaHS or vehicle (0.9% NaCl).Key ResultsCompared with controls, Ang II infusion caused an increase in systolic and diastolic BP with associated cardiac damage as evidenced by cardiac hypertrophy, an increase in atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) mRNA, cardiac fibrosis and increased oxidative stress. Treatment with NaHS and STS prevented the development of hypertension and the increase in ANP mRNA levels. Furthermore, the degree of cardiac hypertrophy, the extent of histological fibrosis in combination with the expression of profibrotic genes and the levels of oxidative stress were all significantly decreased.Conclusions and ImplicationsAng II‐induced hypertensive cardiac disease can be attenuated by treatment with STS and NaHS. Although BP regulation is the most plausible mechanism of cardiac protection, the antifibrotic and antioxidant properties of released sulfide may also contribute to their effects. Our data show that H2S might be a valuable addition to the already existing antihypertensive and cardioprotective therapies.Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on Pharmacology of the Gasotransmitters. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue‐6
A Guide to Understanding Social Science Research for Natural Scientists
Authors: MOON KATIE , BLACKMAN DEBORAH 
Published: June 2014

AbstractNatural scientists are increasingly interested in social research because they recognize that conservation problems are commonly social problems. Interpreting social research, however, requires at least a basic understanding of the philosophical principles and theoretical assumptions of the discipline, which are embedded in the design of social research. Natural scientists who engage in social science but are unfamiliar with these principles and assumptions can misinterpret their results. We developed a guide to assist natural scientists in understanding the philosophical basis of social science to support the meaningful interpretation of social research outcomes. The 3 fundamental elements of research are ontology, what exists in the human world that researchers can acquire knowledge about; epistemology, how knowledge is created; and philosophical perspective, the philosophical orientation of the researcher that guides her or his action. Many elements of the guide also apply to the natural sciences. Natural scientists can use the guide to assist them in interpreting social science research to determine how the ontological position of the researcher can influence the nature of the research; how the epistemological position can be used to support the legitimacy of different types of knowledge; and how philosophical perspective can shape the researcher's choice of methods and affect interpretation, communication, and application of results. The use of this guide can also support and promote the effective integration of the natural and social sciences to generate more insightful and relevant conservation research outcomes.Una Guía para Entender la Investigación de Ciencias Sociales para las Ciencias Naturales Katie Moon
Non‐Bayesian Noun Generalization in 3‐ to 5‐Year‐Old Children: Probing the Role of Prior Knowledge in the Suspicious Coincidence Effect
Authors: Jenkins Gavin W. , Samuelson Larissa K. , Smith Jodi R. , Spencer John P. 
Published: June 2014

AbstractIt is unclear how children learn labels for multiple overlapping categories such as “Labrador,” “dog,” and “animal.” Xu and Tenenbaum (2007a) suggested that learners infer correct meanings with the help of Bayesian inference. They instantiated these claims in a Bayesian model, which they tested with preschoolers and adults. Here, we report data testing a developmental prediction of the Bayesian model—that more knowledge should lead to narrower category inferences when presented with multiple subordinate exemplars. Two experiments did not support this prediction. Children with more category knowledge showed broader generalization when presented with multiple subordinate exemplars, compared to less knowledgeable children and adults. This implies a U‐shaped developmental trend. The Bayesian model was not able to account for these data, even with inputs that reflected the similarity judgments of children. We discuss implications for the Bayesian model, including a combined Bayesian/morphological knowledge account that could explain the demonstrated U‐shaped trend.
Constrained Labour Agency and the Changing Regulatory Regime in China
Authors: Chan Chris King‐Chi 
Published: June 2014

ABSTRACTUsing the concept of ‘constrained agency’ introduced by Neil Coe and David Jordhus‐Lier, this article attempts to evaluate the possibilities and constraints facing labour agency in the Pearl River Delta in China. By reviewing the social, economic and political background of the changing labour market and labour regulations in China, and through an intensive case study of a workers’ strike and its consequences, the author argues that Chinese migrant workers have begun to challenge the state's regulatory regime on labour, which is based on individual rights. However, the introduction of a regulatory framework based on collective rights is being impeded by the party‐state's manipulation of trade unions and the strong influence of global capital on local labour policy.
Modulation of insulin dose titration using a hypoglycaemia‐sensitive algorithm: insulin glargine versus neutral protamine Hagedorn insulin in insulin‐naïve people with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Home P. D. , Bolli G. B. , Mathieu C. , Deerochanawong C. , Landgraf W. , Candelas C. , Pilorget V. , Dain M.‐P. , Riddle M. C. 
Published: June 2014

AbstractAimsTo examine whether insulin glargine can lead to better control of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) than that achieved by neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin, using a protocol designed to limit nocturnal hypoglycaemia.MethodsThe present study, the Least One Oral Antidiabetic Drug Treatment (LANCELOT) Study, was a 36‐week, randomized, open‐label, parallel‐arm study conducted in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Participants were randomized (1 : 1) to begin glargine or NPH, on background of metformin with glimepiride. Weekly insulin titration aimed to achieve median prebreakfast and nocturnal plasma glucose levels ≤5.5 mmol/l, while limiting values ≤4.4 mmol/l.ResultsThe efficacy population (n = 701) had a mean age of 57 years, a mean body mass index of 29.8 kg/m2, a mean duration of diabetes of 9.2 years and a mean HbA1c level of 8.2% (66 mmol/mol). At treatment end, HbA1c values and the proportion of participants with HbA1c <7.0 % (<53 mmol/mol) were not significantly different for glargine [7.1 % (54 mmol/mol) and 50.3%] versus NPH [7.2 % (55 mmol/mol) and 44.3%]. The rate of symptomatic nocturnal hypoglycaemia, confirmed by plasma glucose ≤3.9 or ≤3.1 mmol/l, was 29 and 48% less with glargine than with NPH insulin. Other outcomes were similar between the groups.ConclusionInsulin glargine was not superior to NPH insulin in improving glycaemic control. The insulin dosing algorithm was not sufficient to equalize nocturnal hypoglycaemia between the two insulins. This study confirms, in a globally heterogeneous population, the reduction achieved in nocturnal hypoglycaemia while attaining good glycaemic control with insulin glargine compared with NPH, even when titrating basal insulin to prevent nocturnal hypoglycaemia rather than treating according to normal fasting glucose levels.
Economic evaluations of interventions designed to prevent mental disorders: a systematic review
Authors: Mihalopoulos Cathrine , Chatterton Mary Lou 
Published: June 2014

AbstractAimThe prevention of mental disorders is a growing field and there are interventions that have been demonstrated to prevent some disorders, particularly depression, from developing. The aim of the current study is to update two existing reviews of the cost‐effectiveness studies of preventive interventions for mental disorders in order to determine whether such interventions are good value‐for‐money.MethodsA search was undertaken in Medline, PsycInfo and Econlit. The search was limited to articles published in English covering the period from 2010 to September 2013. Inclusion criteria for the review comprised comparative economic evaluations of interventions designed to prevent mental disorders.ResultsTen new economic evaluations have been published since 2010, more than doubling the numbers of economic evaluations of preventive interventions for mental disorders published prior to 2010. Using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) checklist, the majority of studies were of a good standard and used cost‐utility frameworks.ConclusionsIndicated types of interventions for the prevention of depression and anxiety appeared to be particularly good value‐for‐money and most of these studies were modelled evaluations. Unfortunately, many such interventions are still not routinely provided. Future trials of preventive interventions for mental disorders need to include robust economic evaluations so that the economic impact of such interventions from the individual study participant perspective can be determined.
Screening for psychotic experiences: social desirability biases in a non‐clinical sample
Authors: DeVylder Jordan E. , Hilimire Matthew R. 
Published: June 2014

AbstractAimSubthreshold psychotic experiences are common in the population and may be clinically significant. Reporting of psychotic experiences through self‐report screens may be subject to threats to validity, including social desirability biases. This study examines the influence of social desirability on the reporting of psychotic experiences.MethodsCollege students (n = 686) completed a psychosis screen and the Marlowe–Crowne social desirability scale as part of a self‐report survey battery. Associations between psychosis and social desirability were tested using logistic regression models.ResultsWith the exception of auditory hallucinations, all other measures of psychotic experiences were subject to social desirability biases. Respondents who gave more socially desirable answers were less likely to report psychotic experiences.ConclusionsRespondent's tendency to underreport psychotic experiences should be accounted for when screening for these symptoms clinically. Findings also suggest that population figures based on self‐report may underestimate the prevalence of subthreshold delusions but not hallucinations.
Attitudes towards cannabis use and genetic testing for schizophrenia
Authors: Schiffman Jason , Lawrence Ryan E. , Demro Caroline , Appelbaum Paul S. , Dixon Lisa B. 
Published: June 2014

AbstractAimWithin schizophrenia, genetic factors contribute greatly to risk, yet genetic testing for the disorder is not available. For some individuals with specific genotypes, cannabis use may increase risk of schizophrenia. It is possible that genetic tests could be offered in the future to inform individuals of the risk of schizophrenia if they use cannabis. Previous research, however, provides little guidance on how young adults might respond to such tests.MethodsWe assessed a group of young adults (n = 83) to determine how the perceived magnitude of increased risk for schizophrenia in the presence of cannabis use influences decisions to undergo genetic testing, as well as subsequent attitudes and intentions towards cannabis use.ResultsParticipants were significantly more likely to indicate willingness to get tested if the results identified a 10% risk versus a 2% risk of schizophrenia. Participants also indicated that if the results of their test reflected increased risk due to cannabis use, it would be more important to avoid cannabis in the 10% risk scenario as compared to the 2% risk scenario. These findings remained consistent among a subset of participants who indicated cannabis use.ConclusionsResults suggest that cannabis users and non‐users were positively influenced in terms of intentions to change behaviour based on the magnitude of risk conveyed by genetic testing. These findings provide an initial step towards understanding young people's attitudes towards genetic testing and may help prepare interventions specifically tailored around cannabis use reduction for people at risk for schizophrenia.
‘Nobody really gets it’: a qualitative exploration of youth mental health in deprived urban areas
Authors: Schaffalitzky Elisabeth , Leahy Dorothy , Armstrong Claire , Gavin Blanaid , Latham Linda , McNicholas Fiona , Meagher David , O'Connor Ray , O'Toole Thomas , Smyth Bobby P. , Cullen Walter 
Published: June 2014

AbstractAimTo examine the experience of developing and living with mental health and substance use disorders among young people living in urban‐deprived areas in Ireland to inform primary care interventions.MethodSemi‐structured qualitative interviews with 20 young adults attending health and social care agencies in two deprived urban areas, and analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsFive themes were identified: experiencing symptoms, symptom progression, delay accessing help, loss of control/crisis point, and consequences of mental health and substance use disorders. As young people delayed help, symptoms disrupted normal life progression and they found themselves unable to engage in everyday activities, and living with reduced potential. Living in deprived areas influenced the development of problems: many had added stressors, less familial support and early exposure to violence, addiction and bereavement.ConclusionYoung people in urban‐deprived areas are especially vulnerable to mental health and substance use disorders. Early identification in primary care appears necessary in halting symptom and illness progression, improving young people's chances of achieving their potential.
Methods for individualising factor VIII dosing in prophylaxis
Authors: Ar Muhlis Cem , Vaide Ines , Berntorp Erik , Björkman Sven 
Published: June 2014

AbstractHaemophilia A is a sex‐linked disorder characterised chiefly by recurrent, spontaneous joint and muscle bleedings resulting from deficiency of factor VIII (FVIII). Recurrent joint bleeds result in haemophilic arthropathy. Unless treated with factor replacement therapy, many patients with severe haemophilia become disabled. The first clinical evidence favouring prophylaxis originated from the studies in Sweden and the Netherlands in the 1960s. Later on, it was shown that prophylaxis could prevent arthropathy, if started early in life, or slow its progression in adults with established arthropathy. The optimal dosing of FVIII in long‐term prophylaxis has still not been determined, and there is growing evidence that the dose and frequency of FVIII should be individualised. We conducted a systematic search of PubMed to identify all relevant articles on FVIII prophylaxis in severe haemophilia A. We focused on articles with detailed information about individualisation of prophylaxis. Long‐term prophylaxis in haemophilia was introduced in Sweden in the late 1950s. However, standard prophylactic regimens may not be appropriate for all patients with severe haemophilia. Factors such as age, joint status, co‐morbidities and differences in pharmacokinetics lead to interindividual variation in factor requirement. Dose tailoring of FVIII by clinical outcome was first described in 1994. Since then, several dose‐finding studies questioned the necessity to maintain preinfusion levels of FVIII above 1%. Individualising prophylaxis by dose tailoring is now recommended. Each country should adopt policies for individualising prophylaxis in patients with severe haemophilia. This would lead to a better distribution of the available source of factor concentrates.
Assay discrepancy in mild haemophilia A
Authors: Armstrong Elina , Hillarp Andreas 
Published: June 2014

AbstractThere are three main methods used to assay factor VIII (FVIII) activity: the one‐stage and two‐stage clotting assays and the two‐stage chromogenic method. The most commonly used assay for the diagnosis of haemophilia A is the automated one‐stage FVIII assay. The classical two‐stage FVIII assays are less frequently used. The chromogenic FVIII:C assay is a variant of the two‐stage assay. It is easier to use and therefore used more commonly. Recently significant assay discrepancy has been recognised in the FVIII:C measurements in approximately one‐third of mild haemophilia A patients. This so‐called discrepant mild haemophilia A is characterised by a high ratio of one‐stage/two‐stage assay with one‐stage FVIII levels that are typically more than double those of the two‐stage coagulation assay. There are several mutations that destabilise the FVIIIa structure that can explain this result of a more pronounced decrease of the chromogenic FVIII:C activity compared with the one‐stage activity. These mutations are clustered at the interfaces of the A1, A2 and A3 domains of the FVIII protein. The inverse discrepancy, where the one‐stage assay gives lower FVIII:C results than the chromogenic assay, seems to be associated with mutations found close to important sites for thrombin cleavage or FIX binding. We are carrying out a study of mild haemophilia A samples from the Malmö Haemophilia Centre of families with a unique F8 genotype. The activity of FVIII will be measured using a chromogenic assay and two different one‐stage assays. We hope to estimate the true size of assay discrepancy.AimThis project will review assay discrepancy in mild/moderate haemophilia A and the risk of misdiagnosis. The overall aim is to estimate the size of the problem and to learn from the literature and experiences from our centre as well as to suggest recommendations on how to avoid misdiagnosis.