bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Early Age of First Sex and Health Risk in an Urban Adolescent Population
Authors: Kaplan Deborah L. , Jones Elizabeth J. , Olson E. Carolyn , Yunzal‐Butler Cristina B. 
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDEarly sex is associated with high‐risk behaviors and outcomes, including sexual risk behaviors, forced sex, physical dating violence, and becoming pregnant or impregnating someone.METHODSUsing 2005 and 2007 data from the New York City Youth Risk Behavior Survey (N = 17,220), this study examined the prevalence of early sex among public high school students; associations between early sex and other sexual risk factors and violence indicators; and whether associations varied across 4 racial/ethnic groups. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression models estimated the relationship between sexual risk and violence outcomes and “early sex,” defined as first having sexual intercourse before age 14. Separate models with an interaction term for early sex by race/ethnicity were also estimated.RESULTSMore than one third of students who ever had sex reported having early sex. Adolescents reporting early sex were significantly more likely than those reporting later sex to engage in most sexual risk behaviors and to experience violence. The magnitude of association varied significantly by race/ethnicity for sexual risk behaviors.CONCLUSIONSThe high prevalence of early sex, coupled with its associated high‐risk behaviors and outcomes, underscores the necessity of implementing evidence‐based interventions that have been found to positively impact these behaviors beginning in middle school.
Insulin pump therapy in children and adolescents: Changes in dietary habits, composition and quality of life
Authors: Peters Jessica E , Mount Elizabeth , Huggins Catherine E , Rodda Christine , Silvers Mary Anne 
Published: March 2013

AimContinuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) can improve glycaemic control and dietary flexibility compared with conventional insulin therapies. There is little information on whether users are utilising this increased dietary flexibility, and whether dietary quality is affected.MethodsA pre‐post observational study was undertaken in 28 children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes commencing CSII. Meal pattern and dietary composition was examined from 3‐day food diaries completed before and 3–6 months after CSII commencement. Participants completed the Diabetes‐Specific Quality of Life for Youth Short Form, and body mass index z‐score, and glycated haemoglobin were measured. A second posttest was undertaken at 18 months with those who were still on CSII and contactable (n = 18).ResultsEnergy and macronutrient intake before and 18 months after CSII commencement were unchanged. Mean snacking events decreased significantly by 1.2 snacks per day (P = 0.009), as did the percentage energy derived from snacks (28.8%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 21.5–36.1 vs. 19.3%, 95% CI 13.2–25.4; P = 0.045). Diabetes‐Specific Quality of Life for Youth Short Form score was not significantly affected by pump commencement (25.9 95% CI 18.2–33.6), and body mass index z‐score remained similar before and after CSII. Glycated haemoglobin decreased by 0.5% in the 3–6 months following CSII commencement, but was similar to baseline at 18 months.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that the commencement of CSII did not lead to an abandonment of healthy eating principles, and that patients utilised the increased dietary flexibility to make changes to their snacking pattern.
Concurrent measurements of change in the bark and xylem diameters of trees reveal a phloem‐generated turgor signal
Authors: Mencuccini Maurizio , Hölttä Teemu , Sevanto Sanna , Nikinmaa Eero 
Published: March 2013

Summary

Currently, phloem transport in plants under field conditions is not well understood. This is largely the result of the lack of techniques suitable for the measurement of the physiological properties of phloem.

We present a model that interprets the changes in xylem diameter and live bark thickness and separates the components responsible for such changes. We test the predictions from this model on data from three mature Scots pine trees in Finland. The model separates the live bark thickness variations caused by bark water capacitance from a residual signal interpreted to indicate the turgor changes in the bark.

The predictions from the model are consistent with processes related to phloem transport. At the diurnal scale, this signal is related to patterns of photosynthetic activity and phloem loading. At the seasonal scale, bark turgor showed rapid changes during two droughts and after two rainfall events, consistent with physiological predictions. Daily cumulative totals of this turgor term were related to daily cumulative totals of canopy photosynthesis. Finally, the model parameter representing radial hydraulic conductance between phloem and xylem showed a temperature dependence consistent with the temperature‐driven changes in water viscosity.

We propose that this model has potential for the continuous field monitoring of tree phloem function.
A Novel Method to Calculate Solar UV Exposure Relevant to Vitamin D Production in Humans
Authors: Seckmeyer Gunther , Schrempf Michael , Wieczorek Anna , Riechelmann Stefan , Graw Kathrin , Seckmeyer Stefan , Zankl Maria 
Published: March 2013

AbstractWe present a novel method to calculate vitamin D3–weighted exposure by integrating the incident solar spectral radiance over all relevant parts of the human body. Earlier investigations are based on the irradiance on surfaces, whereas our calculated exposure of a voxel model of a human takes into account the complex geometry of the radiation field. Assuming that sufficient vitamin D3 (1000 international units) can be produced within the human body in one minute for a completely uncovered body in vertical posture in summer at midlatitudes (e.g. Rome, June 21, noon, UV index of 10), we calculate the exposure times needed in other situations or seasons to gain enough vitamin D3. Our calculations show that the UV index is not a good indicator for the exposure which depends on the orientation of the body (e.g. vertical (standing) or horizontal (lying down) posture). Without clothing the exposure is dominated by diffuse sky radiation and it is nearly irrelevant how the body in vertical posture is oriented toward the sun. At the winter solstice (December 21, noon, cloudy) at least in central Europe sufficient vitamin D3 cannot be obtained with realistic clothing, even if the exposure were extended to all daylight hours.
Fatigue in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a qualitative study of people's experiences
Authors: Stridsman Caroline , Lindberg Anne , Skär Lisa 
Published: March 2013

BackgroundFatigue is reported to be one of the most common symptoms among people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD. However, there is hardly any qualitative research describing how fatigue affects people living with this illness.AimTo describe people's experience of fatigue in daily life when living with moderate to very severe COPD.MethodsA purposive sample of 20 people with COPD stages II–IV was recruited from the Obstructive Lung Disease in Northern Sweden COPD study. Data were collected through semi‐structured interviews with participants regarding their experience of fatigue. The interviews were subjected to qualitative content analysis.ResultsOne theme was identified: Reconcile with the dimensions of fatigue, and four categories were identified: To understand the reasons of fatigue, To preserve fatigue unexpressed, When fatigue takes control and How to manage fatigue. Fatigue seems to be an always‐present feeling, involving the whole body, raising feelings of hopelessness and controlling one's life. It seems to be accepted as a natural consequence of COPD and may therefore remain unexpressed. Further, when experienced with dyspnoea, fatigue becomes even heavier and more difficult to manage. To gain control of fatigue, people plan daily life and continue with physical activities.ConclusionFatigue affects the daily lives of people with COPD. Perceived with dyspnoea, fatigue was described as overwhelming. Most importantly, fatigue seems to be unexpressed to healthcare professionals and relatives.
Understanding Surgical Preference and Practice in Hemodialysis Vascular Access Creation
Authors: Nica Andra , Lok Charmaine E. , Harris Jeremy , Lee Timmy C. , Mokrzycki Michele H. , Maya Ivan D. , Vazquez Miguel A. , Xi Wang , Moist Louise M. ,   From the North American Vascular Access Consortium (NAVAC)
Published: March 2013

AbstractUnderstanding healthcare providers’ preferences, values, and beliefs around AVF eligibility is important to explain variability in practice. We conducted a survey of international surgeons, using hypothetical patient scenarios, to assess resources used, variables, perceived barriers, and absolute contraindications to access creation. A total of 134 surgeons completed the survey. Venous duplex ultrasound mapping (VDUM) was offered to all patients by 90% of US, 68% Canadian, and 63% European respondents. VDUM altered clinical decision less than 25% of the time for 33% American, 48% Canadian, and 85% European surgeons. Increased comorbidities and previous failed access were deterrents to AVF creation as was vessel size. Second choice access was the AV graft in the US and Europe and the catheter in Canada. Absolute contraindications to AVF creation included patient life expectancy <1 year, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <15%, and a history of dementia, while 42% surgeons reported no absolute contraindications. Perceived barriers included patient preferences, long wait times for surgery, and late referral to a Nephrologist. Significant variability exists in the surgical preoperative assessment of patients, and the eligibility criteria used for fistula creation. Understanding surgeons’ preferences can aid in establishing standardization for VA access eligibility, including surgical assessment.
Making it on the Outside: Understanding Barriers to Women’s Post‐Incarceration Reintegration
Authors: Opsal Tara , Foley Allison 
Published: March 2013

AbstractThe increasing rate of imprisonment in the United States over the past few decades resulted in record numbers of individuals reentering society upon release. As men and women exit through prison gates, they encounter a range of obstacles that complicate their efforts to “make it” on the outside. Given the gendered impact of recent punitive prison policies, this essay focuses on women and traces their steps as they navigate the many complex, interrelated, and competing obstacles to successful reintegration post‐incarceration. In particular, this essay describes how many barriers, and women’s reentry experience more broadly, are shaped by gender, race, and class. Further, drawing on the feminist pathways perspective, we examine women’s reentry in light of their pathways into offending focusing, in particular, on their victimization history.
The New Science of Sex Difference
Authors: Wade Lisa 
Published: March 2013

AbstractWhile scientists across the academy have abandoned the nature/nurture dichotomy, evidence for the influences of society on our biology is greater than ever. This article reviews new developments in the biological sciences – in the sub‐fields of genetics, hormones, and neuroscience – with special attention to the implications for sociologists interested in gender. The article closes with an argument that embracing these developments has both theoretical and methodological promise and can enhance rather than harm research and activism regarding gender equality and other social hierarchies.
Negotiating the Unknown: The Role of Uncertainty in Social Exchange
Authors: Savage Scott V. , Bergstrand Kelly 
Published: March 2013

AbstractThis article documents the role of uncertainty in social exchange. Specifically, it reviews how social exchange theorists incorporate uncertainty when explaining psychological processes and social behaviors. After identifying and examining the structural roots of uncertainty, the article addresses how uncertainty affects actor behavior and attitude formation, from curbing power use to promoting the development of more committed, trusting and cohesive exchange partnerships. By assessing the consequences of uncertainty and risk for social exchange, this article contributes to sociological knowledge about the nature and form of relationships in an uncertain world.
Parallel Trade and Pharmaceutical Prices: A Game‐theoretic Approach and Empirical Evidence from the European Union
Authors: Vandoros Sotiris , Kanavos Panos 
Published: March 2013

AbstractThis paper studies whether parallel traded products spark price competition in pharmaceutical markets and whether they are any cheaper than locally sourced products. We follow a game‐theoretic approach and employ descriptive statistics and econometric methods to study the effects of parallel trade on competition from a theoretic and empirical perspective. The theoretic approach suggests that there is a unique Nash equilibrium, and the parallel trader sets prices at the same level as the locally sourced product, while the price of the latter remains unaffected by parallel trade. However, there may be deviations from this equilibrium in the presence of particular policies or generic competition, in which case the parallel traded product may be priced at lower levels than the locally sourced product. Empirical analysis confirms the predictions of the theory. Descriptive statistics show that there is no gap between locally sourced and parallel traded products, unless generics or policies encouraging parallel trade are present. Results of the econometric analysis show that parallel trade does not trigger price competition and that the price of the locally sourced product remains unaffected by parallel trade. Therefore, any savings for health insurance occurring as a result of parallel trade are limited.
A Prime-Boost Strategy Using the Novel Vaccine Candidate, LemA, Protects Hamsters against Leptospirosis
Authors: Hartwig Daiane D. , Forster Karine M. , Oliveira Thaís L. , Amaral Marta , McBride Alan J. A. , Dellagostin Odir A. 
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACTToward developing an effective vaccine capable of conferring heterologous protection, the putative lipoprotein LemA, which presents an M3 epitope similar to that ofListeria, was evaluated as a vaccine candidate in the hamster model of leptospirosis. LemA is conserved (>70% pairwise identity) among the pathogenicLeptospiraspp., indicating its potential in stimulating a cross-protective immune response. Using different vaccination strategies, including prime-boost, DNA vaccine, and a subunit preparation, recombinant LemA conferred different levels of protection in hamsters. Significant protection against mortality was observed for the prime-boost and the DNA vaccine strategies, which showed 87.5% (P< 0.01) and 62.5% (P< 0.05) efficacy, respectively. Although the subunit vaccine preparation protected 50.0% of immunized hamsters, the level of protection was not significant. None of the hamsters in the control groups survived challenge with a virulent strain ofLeptospira interrogansserogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae. Characterization of the immune response found that the strongest antibody response was stimulated by the subunit vaccine preparation, followed by the prime-boost strategy. The DNA vaccine failed to elicit an antibody response in immunized hamsters.
Evaluation of the Fully Automated BD MAX Cdiff and Xpert C. difficile Assays for Direct Detection of Clostridium difficile in Stool Specimens
Authors: Dalpke Alexander H. , Hofko Marjeta , Zorn Markus , Zimmermann Stefan 
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACT

We evaluated the fully automated molecular BD MAX Cdiff assay (BD Diagnostics) and the Xpert
C. difficile
test (Cepheid) for rapid detection of
Clostridium difficile
infection. Culture was done on chromogenic agar followed by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry identification and toxin detection. Repeat testing was required for 1.8% and 6.0% of the BD MAX and Xpert tests, respectively. Sensitivities, specificities, positive predictive values (PPV), and negative predictive values (NPV) were 90.5%, 97.9%, 89.3%, and 98.1%, respectively, for BD MAX and 97.3%, 97.9%, 90.0%, and 99.5%, respectively, for Xpert.
Rapid Detection of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Types 1 and 2 by Use of an Improved Piezoelectric Biosensor
Authors: Bisoffi Marco , Severns Virginia , Branch Darren W. , Edwards Thayne L. , Larson Richard S. 
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACT

Disasters can create situations in which blood donations can save lives. However, in emergency situations and when resources are depleted, on-site blood donations require the rapid and accurate detection of blood-borne pathogens, including human immunodeficiency virus types 1 and 2 (HIV-1 and HIV-2). Techniques such as PCR and antibody capture by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for HIV-1 and HIV-2 are precise but time-consuming and require sophisticated equipment that is not compatible with emergency point-of-care requirements. We describe here a prototype biosensor based on piezoelectric materials functionalized with specific antibodies against HIV-1 and HIV-2. We show the rapid and accurate detection of HIV-1 and HIV-2 in both simple and complex solutions, including human serum, and in the presence of a cross-confounding virus. We report detection limits of 12 50% tissue culture infective doses (TCID
50
s) for HIV-1 and 87 TCID
50
s for HIV-2. The accuracy, precision of measurements, and operation of the prototype biosensor compared favorably to those for nucleic acid amplification. We conclude that the biosensor has significant promise as a successful point-of-care diagnostic device for use in emergency field applications requiring rapid and reliable testing for blood-borne pathogens.
Characterization of Extended-Spectrum-Beta-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli Strains Involved in Maternal-Fetal Colonization: Prevalence of E. coli ST131
Authors: Birgy André , Mariani-Kurkdjian Patricia , Bidet Philippe , Doit Catherine , Genel Nathalie , Courroux Céline , Arlet Guillaume , Bingen Edouard 
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACT

Maternal-fetal
Escherichia coli
infections, such as neonatal bacteremia and meningitis, are important causes of morbidity and mortality. From 2006 to 2010, we studied newborns and their mothers who were colonized with
E. coli
in a French hospital in order to document (i) the epidemiology and genetic characteristics of extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing
E. coli
strains, (ii) the prevalence of associated virulence genes, (iii) the prevalence of clone sequence type 131 (ST131), and (iv) the genetic relationship among ESBL-producing strains. Among the 2,755
E. coli
cultures recovered from vaginal or neonatal samples, 68 were ESBL producers (2.46%). We found a wide diversity of ESBL genes, with the majority being
bla
CTX-M-14
,
bla
CTX-M-1
, and
bla
CTX-M-15
, distributed among the 4 main phylogenetic groups. Genes encoding virulence factors were found in 90.7% of the isolates, with ≥2 virulence genes present in 76% of cases. The prevalence of ST131 among ESBL-producing
E. coli
isolates was 9.4% (6/64). Five of these 6 ST131 isolates possessed
bla
CTX-M-15
enzymes (and also were resistant to quinolones), and one possessed
bla
CTX-M-2
enzymes. Two possessed virulence genes, suggesting the presence of pathogenicity island II
J96
(PAI II
J96
)-like domains. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) revealed a high level of genomic diversity overall, except for 3 closely related isolates belonging to clonal group ST131. Repetitive PCR showed that the six ST131 isolates were closely related to ST131 control strains (>95% similarity). This study shows a high prevalence of ESBL-producing
E. coli
strains and clonal group ST131 in the French maternal-fetal population. These results suggest a widespread distribution of ESBL enzymes in the community and highlight the early transmission between mothers and neonates. These findings are worrisome, especially for this particularly vulnerable population.
Multicenter Evaluation of Genechip for Detection of Multidrug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Pang Yu , Xia Hui , Zhang Zhiying , Li Junchen , Dong Yi , Li Qiang , Ou Xichao , Song Yuanyuan , Wang Yufeng , O'Brien Richard , Kam Kai Man , Chi Junying , Huan Shitong , Chin Daniel P. , Zhao Yanlin 
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACT
Drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB), especially multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), is still one of the most serious threats to TB control worldwide. Early diagnosis of MDR-TB is important for effectively blocking transmission and establishing an effective protocol for chemotherapy. Genechip is a rapid diagnostic method based on molecular biology that overcomes the poor biosafety, time consumption, and other drawbacks of traditional drug sensitivity testing (DST) that can detect MDR-TB. However, the Genechip approach has not been effectively evaluated, especially in limited-resource laboratories. In this study, we evaluated the performance of Genechip for MDR-TB in 1,814 patients in four prefectural or municipal laboratories and compared its performance with that of traditional DST. The results showed that the sensitivity and specificity of Genechip were 87.56% and 97.95% for rifampin resistance and 80.34% and 95.82% for isoniazid resistance, respectively. In addition, we found that the positive grade of the sputum smears influenced the judgment of results by Genechip. The test judged only 75% of the specimens of “scanty” positive grade. However, the positive grade of the specimens showed no influence on the accuracy of Genechip. Overall, the study suggests that, in limited-resource laboratories, Genechip showed high sensitivity and specificity for rifampin and isoniazid resistance, making it a more effective, rapid, safe, and cost-beneficial method worthy of broader use in limited-resource laboratories in China.