bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Motivations of nurses who migrate to Canada as domestic workers
Authors: Salami B. , Nelson S. , Hawthorne L. , Muntaner C. , McGillis Hall L. 
Published: August 2014

BackgroundWhile some trained nurses migrate to destination countries to work as domestic workers, little is known about their migration motivations.AimThis study explores the motivations of Philippine educated nurses who migrated to Canada through the Live‐in Caregiver Program from 2001 to 2011 (a Canadian domestic worker programme).MethodsA single case study qualitative methodology and the transnational feminist concept of global care chains were utilized for this study. Interviews of 15 Philippine educated nurses who migrated to Canada as domestic workers were conducted in the province of Ontario, Canada, between February to October 2012. All participants had a baccalaureate degree from the Philippines. Interviews were tape recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using critical discourse analysis, aided by NVIVO 10 data analysis software.ResultsFindings reveal a multi‐step immigration process in which nurses migrate from the Philippines to the Middle East (especially Saudi Arabia) and finally to Canada. While emigration from the Philippines is mainly economically driven, migration from the Middle East to Canada is primarily motivated by the desire for Canadian citizenship for the family. Also, perceived social status and lifestyle in Canada as compared to the Middle East motivates this group of women to migrate to Canada.LimitationThe major limitation of this study is the lack of input from nursing policy makers.ConclusionGender‐based familial ideologies and perspective on social status influence the migration decision of this group of nurses.Implications for Nursing and Health PolicyImplications for nursing and health policy makers include the provision of clear pre‐migration information (including on the nursing registration process) to internationally educated nurses, advocacy for stronger immigration policies to ensure the integration of internationally educated nurses and a consideration of gender in all health human resource policies.
From cell membrane to the nucleus: an emerging role of E‐cadherin in gene transcriptional regulation
Authors: Du Wenjun , Liu Xi , Fan Guiling , Zhao Xingsheng , Sun Yanying , Wang Tianzhen , Zhao Ran , Wang Guangyu , Zhao Ci , Zhu Yuanyuan , Ye Fei , Jin Xiaoming , Zhang Fengmin , Zhong Zhaohua , Li Xiaobo 
Published: August 2014

AbstractE‐cadherin is a well‐known mediator of cell–cell adherens junctions. However, many other functions of E‐cadherin have been reported. Collectively, the available data suggest that E‐cadherin may also act as a gene transcriptional regulator. Here, evidence supporting this claim is reviewed, and possible mechanisms of action are discussed. E‐cadherin has been shown to modulate the activity of several notable cell signalling pathways, and given that most of these pathways in turn regulate gene expression, we proposed that E‐cadherin may regulate gene transcription by affecting these pathways. Additionally, E‐cadherin has been shown to accumulate in the nucleus where documentation of an E‐cadherin fragment bound to DNA suggests that E‐cadherin may directly regulate gene transcription. In summary, from the cell membrane to the nucleus, a role for E‐cadherin in gene transcription may be emerging. Studies specifically focused on this potential role would allow for a more thorough understanding of this transmembrane glycoprotein in mediating intra‐ and intercellular activities.
Notch3 is necessary for neuronal differentiation and maturation in the adult spinal cord
Authors: Rusanescu Gabriel , Mao Jianren 
Published: August 2014

AbstractNotch receptors are key regulators of nervous system development and promoters of neural stem cells renewal and proliferation. Defects in the expression of Notch genes result in severe, often lethal developmental abnormalities. Notch3 is generally thought to have a similar proliferative, anti‐differentiation and gliogenic role to Notch1. However, in some cases, Notch3 has an opposite, pro‐differentiation effect. Here, we show that Notch3 segregates from Notch1 and is transiently expressed in adult rat and mouse spinal cord neuron precursors and immature neurons. This suggests that during the differentiation of adult neural progenitor cells, Notch signalling may follow a modified version of the classical lateral inhibition model, involving the segregation of individual Notch receptors. Notch3 knockout mice, otherwise neurologically normal, are characterized by a reduced number of mature inhibitory interneurons and an increased number of highly excitable immature neurons in spinal cord laminae I–II. As a result, these mice have permanently lower nociceptive thresholds, similar to chronic pain. These results suggest that defective neuronal differentiation, for example as a result of reduced Notch3 expression or activation, may underlie human cases of intractable chronic pain, such as fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain.
First evidence of TRPV5 and TRPV6 channels in human parathyroid glands: possible involvement in neoplastic transformation
Authors: Giusti Laura , Cetani Filomena , Da Valle Ylenia , Pardi Elena , Ciregia Federica , Donadio Elena , Gargini Claudia , Piano Ilaria , Borsari Simona , Jaber Ali , Caputo Antonella , Basolo Fulvio , Giannaccini Gino , Marcocci Claudio , Lucacchini Antonio 
Published: August 2014

AbstractThe parathyroid glands play an overall regulatory role in the systemic calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis. The purpose of the present study was to demonstrate the presence of the Ca2+ channels transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) 5 and TRPV6 in human parathyroid glands. Semi‐quantitative and quantitative PCR was carried out to evaluate the presence of TRPV5 and TRPV6 mRNAs in sporadic parathyroid adenomas and normal parathyroid glands. Western blot and immunocytochemical assays were used to assess protein expression, cellular localization and time expression in primary cultures from human parathyroid adenoma. TRPV5 and TRPV6 transcripts were then identified both in normal and pathological tissues. Predominant immunoreactive bands were detected at 75–80 kD for both vanilloid channels. These channels co‐localized with the calcium‐sensing receptor (CASR) on the membrane surface, but immunoreactivity was also detected in the cytosol and around the nuclei. Our data showed that western blotting recorded an increase of protein expression of both channels in adenoma samples compared with normal glands suggesting a potential relation with the cell calcium signalling pathway and the pathological processes of these glands.
Heterodimerization of apelin receptor and neurotensin receptor 1 induces phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and cell proliferation via Gαq‐mediated mechanism
Authors: Bai Bo , Cai Xin , Jiang Yunlu , Karteris Emmanouil , Chen Jing 
Published: August 2014

AbstractDimerization of G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) is crucial for receptor function including agonist affinity, efficacy, trafficking and specificity of signal transduction, including G protein coupling. Emerging data suggest that the cardiovascular system is the main target of apelin, which exerts an overall neuroprotective role, and is a positive regulator of angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in heart failure. Moreover, ACE2 cleaves off C‐terminal residues of vasoactive peptides including apelin‐13, and neurotensin that activate the apelin receptor (APJ) and neurotensin receptor 1 (NTSR1) respectively, that belong to the A class of GPCRs. Therefore, based on the similar mode of modification by ACE2 at peptide level, the homology at amino acid level and the capability of forming dimers with other GPCRs, we have been suggested that APJ and NTSR1 can form a functional heterodimer. Using co‐immunoprecipitation, BRET and FRET, we provided conclusive evidence of heterodimerization between APJ and NTSR1 in a constitutive and induced form. Upon agonist stimulation, hetrodimerization enhanced ERK1/2 activation and increased proliferation via activation of Gq α‐subunits. These novel data provide evidence for a physiological role of APJ/NTSR1 heterodimers in terms of ERK1/2 activation and increased intracellular calcium and induced cell proliferation and provide potential new pharmaceutical targets for cardiovascular disease.
Impact of serum levels of interleukin‐6 and adiponectin on all‐cause, liver‐related, and liver‐unrelated mortality in chronic hepatitis C patients
Authors: Nakagawa Hayato , Fujiwara Naoto , Tateishi Ryosuke , Arano Toru , Nakagomi Ryo , Kondo Mayuko , Minami Tatsuya , Sato Masaya , Uchino Koji , Enooku Kenichiro , Asaoka Yoshinari , Kondo Yuji , Shiina Shuichiro , Yoshida Haruhiko , Koike Kazuhiko 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackground and AimVarious inflammatory cytokines and adipokines have been implicated in hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐mediated liver disease, and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and adiponectin may play key roles. In addition, these factors may be associated with chronic hepatitis C (CHC)‐induced extrahepatic manifestations. However, little data are available on the role of these factors on future outcomes of CHC patients. This study aims to evaluate the impact of serum levels of IL‐6 and adiponectin on all‐cause mortality, liver‐related mortality, and liver‐unrelated mortality.MethodsA long‐term follow‐up study was conducted, consisting of 325 CHC patients, for which we previously reported positive associations between these factors (Serum levels of IL‐6 and adiponectin) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development.ResultsDuring the follow‐up period (mean, 13.0 year), there were 92 events consisting of 91 deaths (liver related, 72; liver unrelated, 19) and 1 liver transplantation due to liver failure. High IL‐6 and adiponectin levels, defined as being higher than each median value at baseline, were associated with significantly higher incidences of not only HCC development but also all‐cause mortality. Interestingly, high IL‐6 was strongly associated with only liver‐related mortality, whereas high‐serum adiponectin was associated with not only liver‐related, but also liver‐unrelated mortality. Multivariate analysis identified high IL‐6 as an independent risk factor for liver‐related mortality and high adiponectin as an independent risk factor for liver‐unrelated mortality.ConclusionHigh serum levels of IL‐6 and adiponectin were associated with higher all‐cause and liver‐related mortality in CHC patients. In addition, high adiponectin was associated with liver‐unrelated mortality. The measurement of these factors may provide information useful for predicting future outcomes in CHC patients.
Fecal microbiota transplantation through mid‐gut for refractory Crohn's disease: Safety, feasibility, and efficacy trial results
Authors: Cui Bota , Feng Qiang , Wang Honggang , Wang Min , Peng Zhaoyuan , Li Pan , Huang Guangming , Liu Zheng , Wu Ping , Fan Zhining , Ji Guozhong , Wang Xin , Wu Kaichun , Fan Daiming , Zhang Faming 
Published: August 2014

AbstactBackground and AimThe gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in the intestinal diseases. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) might be a rescue therapy for refractory inflammatory bowel disease. This study aimed to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of FMT through mid‐gut for refractory Crohn's disease (CD).MethodsWe established standardized laboratory protocol and clinical work flow for FMT. Only refractory CD patients with Harvey–Bradshaw Index (HBI) score ≥ 7 were enrolled for this study. All included patients were treated with single FMT through mid‐gut and assessed during follow‐up.ResultsMetagenomics analysis showed a high concordance between feces sample and purified fecal microbiota from same donors. Standardized fecal microbiota preparation and clinical flow significantly simplified the practical aspects of FMT. Totally, 30 patients were qualified for the present analysis. The rate of clinical improvement and remission based on clinical activity at the first month was 86.7% (26/30) and 76.7% (23/30), respectively, which was higher than other assessment points within 15‐month follow‐up. Patients' body weight increased after FMT, and the lipid profile improved as well. FMT also showed a fast and continuous significant effect in relieving the sustaining abdominal pain associated with sustaining CD.ConclusionThis is a pilot study with the largest sample of patients with refractory CD who underwent single FMT. The results demonstrated that FMT through mid‐gut might be a safe, feasible, and efficient rescue therapy for refractory CD.
Investigating the use of the neutropenic diet: a survey of UK dietitians
Authors: Carr S. E. , Halliday V. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackgroundPatients with chemotherapy‐induced neutropenia are at increased risk of infection. Historically, dietary restrictions commonly referred to as ‘clean’, ‘low bacteria’, ‘low‐microbial’ or ‘neutropenic’ diets have been prescribed to reduce the risk of foodborne infection. Although research does not support their effectiveness, they continue to be used in clinical practice. The present study aimed to investigate the use of dietary restrictions in patients with cancer in the UK by surveying registered dietitians (RDs).MethodsAn online questionnaire was distributed to 573 RDs via local and specialist interest groups of the British Dietetic Association.ResultsOne hundred and ten questionnaires were returned. Of these, 67.8% of RDs prescribed dietary restrictions to patients, with ‘neutropenic diet’ being the most commonly used term. Specialist oncology or haematology RDs were more likely to use the diet than nonspecialist RDs (P < 0.005). The variety of foods restricted varied greatly and was often contradicting. Unpasteurised dairy products and raw or lightly cooked meat or fish were most commonly restricted. Less than half (43.6%) of RDs had a policy in place for the use of neutropenic diets, with specialist oncology and haematology RDs more likely to report this (P < 0.005).ConclusionsNeutropenic dietary advice provided by dietitians in the UK varies greatly. Further high‐quality research is required to create an evidence base from which national clinical guidelines can be formed.
Effects of a single course versus repeated courses of antenatal corticosteroids on fetal growth, placental morphometry and the differential regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor
Authors: Elfayomy Amr K. , Almasry Shaima M. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractAimTo investigate the impact of antenatal exposure to a single course or repeated courses of dexamethasone (DEX) on neonatal anthropometrics, placental morphometry and potential effect on maternal plasma levels and placental expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).MethodsPregnant women between 27 and 32 weeks of gestation who delivered between 28 and 40 weeks and received a single course (n = 38) or repeated courses (n = 33) of DEX were compared to gestational age‐matched controls (n = 30). Maternal blood samples were obtained, and placental biopsy was taken. Area percent of VEGF immunostaining and villous capillarization index were evaluated using image analysis.ResultsInfants exposed to repeated courses of DEX were significantly associated with decreased birthweight, body length, head circumference and placental weight compared with controls (P = 0.011, P < 0.001, P = 0.004, P < 0.001, respectively) and with the group that received a single course of DEX (P = 0.021, P = 0.020, P = 0.049, P = 0.010, respectively). There was a significant decrease in maternal VEGF plasma levels and percentage of VEGF immunostained area after repeated courses of DEX compared with controls (P < 0.001 and P = 0.001, respectively) or a single course (P = 0.028 and P = 0.002, respectively). Notably, repeated courses of DEX impaired normal increase in villous capillarization index compared with controls or a single course (P = 0.001 and P = 0.041, respectively).ConclusionRepeated antenatal courses of DEX compromised fetal and placental growth compared with a single course of DEX, and these effects were potentially mediated by altered maternal plasma levels and placental expression of VEGF with consequent decrease in placental vascularization. Because of continuing uncertainties, several key messages for clinicians are provided.
Large rectovaginal fistula due to a cube pessary despite routine follow‐up; but what is ‘routine'?
Authors: Torbey Matthew J. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractVaginal pessaries are generally considered a safe and effective form of management for pelvic organ prolapse. Serious complications such as rectovaginal fistula can develop with or without regular follow‐up. This case report describes the rapid development over a 10‐week period of a large rectovaginal fistula in a 75‐year‐old woman, despite routine follow‐up and replacement of her cube pessary. Currently, there is a lack of evidence‐based guidelines for pessary care and, in particular, the frequency of pessary replacement. Intervals for pessary replacements vary greatly and are often based on the manufacturer's recommendations. This case highlights the rapidity at which serious complications can develop and also represents the first reported case of a cube pessary‐induced rectovaginal fistula.
Usefulness of shock indicators for determining the need for blood transfusion after massive obstetric hemorrhage
Authors: Era Sumiko , Matsunaga Shigetaka , Matsumura Hideyoshi , Murayama Yoshihiko , Takai Yasushi , Seki Hiroyuki 
Published: August 2014

AbstractAimMassive obstetric hemorrhage (MOH) requires prompt transfusion of red blood cells and coagulation factors. Because MOH has a diverse pathogenesis, the shock index (SI) alone may be insufficient for determining blood transfusion. Here, we retrospectively analyzed patients with MOH to determine usefulness of the indicators of shock including the SI in evaluating the need for blood transfusion.MethodsWe reviewed records of 80 emergency referral patients who had received blood transfusions at our department between 1 January 2009 and 31 July 2011. The shock indicators for blood transfusion are estimated blood loss, fibrinogen level, hemoglobin concentration, the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology disseminated intravascular coagulation (JSOG DIC) score and the SI. The strength of the correlation of each shock indicator with the transfusion volume was ranked using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient‐ρ and multivariate analysis.ResultsAlthough the SI showed significant positive correlation with blood transfusion volume for red blood cell concentrate (RCC) and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) in patients with dilutional coagulopathy, a stronger correlation was seen with the fibrinogen level and JSOG DIC score. In patients with consumptive coagulopathy, the strongest correlation was seen between RCC transfusion volume and fibrinogen level, and between FFP transfusion volume and JSOG DIC score followed by fibrinogen level. In multivariate analysis, only fibrinogen level was significantly associated with both RCC and FFP massive transfusion.ConclusionBecause MOH has a diverse pathogenesis, various indicators should be evaluated. Among shock indicators, fibrinogen level was the best indicator of the need for blood transfusion following MOH.
Cardiovascular risk in patients with sleep apnoea with or without continuous positive airway pressure therapy: follow‐up of 4.5 million Danish adults
Authors: Lamberts M. , Nielsen O. W. , Lip G. Y. H. , Ruwald M. H. , Christiansen C. B. , Kristensen S. L. , Torp‐Pedersen C. , Hansen M. L. , Gislason G. H. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackgroundThe prognostic significance of age and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on cardiovascular disease in patients with sleep apnoea has not been assessed previously.MethodsUsing nationwide databases, the entire Danish population was followed from 2000 until 2011. First‐time sleep apnoea diagnoses and use of CPAP therapy were determined. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of ischaemic stroke and myocardial infarction (MI) were analysed using Poisson regression models.ResultsAmongst 4.5 million individuals included in the study, 33 274 developed sleep apnoea (mean age 53, 79% men) of whom 44% received persistent CPAP therapy. Median time to initiation of CPAP therapy was 88 days (interquartile range 34–346). Patients with sleep apnoea had more comorbidities compared to the general population. Crude rates of MI and ischaemic stroke were increased for sleep apnoea patients (5.4 and 3.6 events per 1000 person‐years compared to 4.0 and 3.0 in the general population, respectively). Relative to the general population, risk of MI [IRR 1.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.57–1.86] and ischaemic stroke (IRR 1.50, 95% CI 1.35–1.66) was significantly increased in patients with sleep apnoea, in particular in patients younger than 50 years (IRR 2.12, 95% CI 1.64–2.74 and IRR 2.34, 95% CI 1.77–3.10, respectively). Subsequent CPAP therapy was not associated with altered prognosis.ConclusionsSleep apnoea is associated with increased risk of ischaemic stroke and MI, particularly in patients younger than 50 years of age. CPAP therapy was not associated with a reduced rate of stroke or MI.
The influence of sleep restriction on expression of apoptosis regulatory proteins p53, Bcl‐2 and Bax following rat tongue carcinogenesis induced by 4‐nitroquinoline 1‐oxide
Authors: Noguti Juliana , Alvarenga Tathiana A. , Marchi Patrícia , Oshima Celina T. F. , Andersen Monica L. , Ribeiro Daniel A. 
Published: August 2014

PurposeThe aim of this study was to evaluate whether sleep restriction (SR) could affect the mechanisms and pathways’ essentials for cancer cells in tongue cancer induced by 4‐nitroquinoline 1‐oxide in Wistar rats.MethodsThe animals were distributed into 4 groups of 5 animals each treated with 50 ppm 4 NQO solution through their drinking water for 4 and 12 weeks. The animals were submitted to sleep restriction for 21 days using the modified multiple platform method, which consisted of placing 5 rats in a cage (41 × 34 × 16 cm) containing 10 circular platforms (3.5 cm in diameter) with water 1 cm below the upper surface. The investigations were conducted using immunohistochemistry of p53, Bax and Bcl‐2 proteins related to apoptosis and its pathways.ResultsAlthough no histopathologic abnormalities were induced in the epithelium after 4 weeks of carcinogen exposure in all groups, in 12 weeks were observed pre‐neoplastic lesions. Data analysis revealed statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) in 4 weeks group for p53, and for bcl‐2. Following 12 weeks of 4NQO administration, we found significant differences between SR and control groups in p53, bax, and bcl‐2 immunoexpression.ConclusionOur results reveal that sleep restriction exerted alterations in proteins associated with proliferation and apoptosis in carcinogenesis.