bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Increased efficacy of omalizumab in atopic dermatitis patients with wild‐type filaggrin status and higher serum levels of phosphatidylcholines
Authors: Hotze M. , Baurecht H. , Rodríguez E. , Chapman‐Rothe N. , Ollert M. , Fölster‐Holst R. , Adamski J. , Illig T. , Ring J. , Weidinger S. 
Published: October 2013

AbstractOmalizumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting IgE, is an established therapy for severe allergic asthma and has shown efficacy in chronic spontaneous urticaria. Small‐scale studies indicated some beneficial effect also in atopic dermatitis (AD). To evaluate the efficacy of omalizumab in AD and to identify markers associated with treatment response, we conducted a prospective 28‐week open‐label trial on 20 adults with moderate‐to‐severe AD. Our results confirm previous observations of a positive response in a subgroup of patients and suggest that responders are characterized by the absence of filaggrin mutations and altered lipid metabolite profiles with high levels of various glycerophospholipids.
Chlorhexidine droplet splash from a skin preparation gallipot: effect of height of pouring
Authors: Evans L. , Cunningham M. , Tilakaratna P. 
Published: October 2013

SummaryChlorhexidine contamination of equipment used in central neuraxial anaesthesia has been implicated in causing adhesive arachnoiditis. We measured the extent of chlorhexidine splash during pouring into a gallipot (antiseptic skin preparation container) from heights of 5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm and 20 cm. Twenty experiments were performed at each height. Measurements made up to a horizontal distance of 40 cm radius from the gallipot showed a median (IQR [range]) maximum spread of splash droplets ≥ 2 mm diameter of 26.2 (10.2–36.4 [0–40]) cm. The 40‐cm radius measurement area was divided into 5‐cm‐wide zones to assess spread. At pouring heights of 15 cm and 20 cm, all zones were contaminated. These results demonstrate that pouring chlorhexidine into a gallipot generates significant splash, and we recommend that this should be avoided near equipment used for neuraxial anaesthesia.
Electrocardiographic Findings in Accessory Right Precordial Leads in Adults and Seniors with Notched S Waves in Lead V1—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Zhong‐qun Zhan , Nikus Kjell C. , Pérez‐Riera Andrés Ricardo , Chong‐quan Wang 
Published: October 2013

BackgroundAtypical right bundle branch block (RBBB) may present with an rS pattern and notched S wave in lead V1. The notched S wave may represent slowed conduction or delayed activation of the right ventricular conduction system or ventricular myocardium.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the QRS patterns in accessory right precordial leads (from V3R to V5R) in 15 adults/senior individuals with notched S wave in lead V1.ResultsIn the right accessory precordial leads, 13 showed triphasic QRS pattern with final R′ wave in their QRS complexes. This QRS pattern in association with notched S wave in lead V1 is suggestive of the presence of RBBB (incomplete or complete).ConclusionsA notched S wave in lead V1 and in the right precordial accessory leads associated with a final R′ wave suggests the possibility of concealed RBBB (incomplete or complete).
Non‐surgical interventions for the management of type 2 dens fractures: a systematic review
Authors: Sime David , Pitt Veronica , Pattuwage Loyal , Tee Jin , Liew Susan , Gruen Russell 
Published: October 2013

AbstractBackgroundNon‐surgical immobilization strategies for type 2 odontoid fractures vary considerably, with some surgeons preferring rigid collars, halothoracic bracing or the Minerva brace. Choice of device should be informed by the effectiveness in achieving union, whilst minimizing mortality and complications.ObjectivesPerform a systematic review evaluating the efficacy of non‐surgical interventions for type 2 odontoid fractures.Data SourcesMEDLINE (OvidSP), EMBASE (OvidSP) and The Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, Current Controlled Trials.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review of studies directly comparing the halothoracic brace and cervical collars or the Minerva brace for union, mortality and complications. Studies were appraised for quality and bias, and results were pooled for analysis.ResultsOur search identified 1794 citations, 13 of which met inclusion criteria. There were no randomized or prospective studies. All studies were small, retrospective and observational. Our results demonstrate a greater likelihood of developing stable union (osseous and fibrous); relative risk (RR) 1.27 (95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.03 to 1.57; P = 0.03); and airway complications; RR 7.52 (95% CI 1.39 to 40.83; P = 0.02) with halothoracic bracing compared with cervical collar. In patients >65, there was a greater risk of airway complications; RR 7.50 (0.96–58.36; P = 0.05). No other significant differences were identified.ConclusionEvidence to support selection of non‐surgical immobilization in type 2 odontoid fractures is poor. Osseous union has traditionally been the benchmark for ‘successful’ treatment; however, evidence of association between union and improved outcomes is lacking. We highlight the need for a randomized study to promote evidence‐based decision‐making in the non‐surgical management of this injury.
Developmental competence of oocytes isolated from surplus medulla tissue in connection with cryopreservation of ovarian tissue for fertility preservation
Authors: Wilken‐Jensen Helle N. , Kristensen Stine G. , Jeppesen Janni V. , Yding Andersen Claus 
Published: October 2013

AbstractObjectiveEvaluating the developmental competence of immature oocytes collected from surplus medulla tissue in connection with ovarian tissue cryopreservation for fertility preservation.DesignCohort comparative study.SettingUniversity laboratory in Denmark from 2011–2012.Population69 girls and women (0–38 years of age) who each had one ovary cryopreserved for fertility preservation.MethodsOvaries were obtained directly from the local hospital or from collaborating hospitals (two to five hours' transport on ice). Immature oocytes were aspirated from large antral follicles visible on the ovaries, and collected from the saline solution, containing surplus medulla tissue, following dissection of the ovarian cortical tissue for cryopreservation. The immature oocytes were cultured for 48 h in an Embryoscope™ Time‐lapse System or in culture dishes overlaid with liquid paraffin using commercial and in‐house supplemented culture media.Main outcome measuresMaturation rate for immature oocytes reaching metaphase II.ResultsWith a maturation rate of 3.1%, only 21 of 682 immature oocytes reached metaphase II. Immature oocytes from ovaries that had been transported on ice for two to five hours performed significantly poorer than those recovered immediately after surgery. Addition of epidermal growth factor and follicle fluid from human small antral follicles to the culture medium did not augment the maturation rate. Immature oocytes cultured in the Embryoscope performed significantly better than those in conventional culture dishes.ConclusionsIn vitro maturation of immature oocytes should only be attempted clinically from visible antral follicles and where the ovary is not subjected to a cooling period prior to recovery of immature oocytes.
Intensity of menstrual pain and estimated angle of uterine flexion
Authors: Cagnacci Angelo , Grandi Giovanni , Cannoletta Marianna , Xholli Anjeza , Piacenti Ilaria , Volpe Annibale 
Published: October 2013

AbstractObjectiveTo assess the impact of ultrasound‐estimated uterus position on the intensity of pelvic pain.DesignDescriptive analytical study.SettingTertiary university gynecology unit.Population181 consecutive patients with pelvic pain.MethodsEach woman underwent physical examination, transvaginal sonography and filled self‐administered questionnaires on pain using a 10‐cm visual analog scale (VAS).Main outcome measuresVisual analog scale score of menstrual pain, intermenstrual pain and dyspareunia was related to uterine version (ante‐ or retroversion) and the angle of uterine flexion (actual angle between cervix and uterine body) evaluated by transvaginal sonography.ResultsEstimated uterine version was not associated with the intensity of any type of pain. The estimated angle of flexion was higher in retroverted than in anteverted uteri (182.3° ± 50.3° vs. 142.3° ± 24.2°, p < 0.0001). Intensity of menstrual pain was lowest with flexion between 150° and 210° (4.9 ± 3.1) (p = 0.002), intermediate with flexion <150° (6.3 ± 2.8) and highest with flexion ≥210° (7.9 ± 2.3). Severe menstrual pain was more prevalent with flexion ≥210° (77.7%) than between 150° and 210° (31.4%; p = 0.0008) or <150° (45.2%; p = 0.005). The intensity of intermenstrual pain and dyspareunia were not associated with the angle of flexion. In multiple regression analysis, the angle of flexion was independently related only to the intensity of menstrual pain (r = 0.272; p = 0.002).ConclusionsIn women with pelvic pain, ultrasound‐estimated uterine flexion represents an independent risk for intense menstrual pain.
Exercise Performance of Chronic Heart Failure Patients in the Early Period of Support by an Axial‐Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device as Destination Therapy
Authors: Compostella Leonida , Russo Nicola , Setzu Tiziana , Compostella Caterina , Bellotto Fabio 
Published: October 2013

AbstractAxial‐flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are increasingly used as destination therapy in end‐stage chronic heart failure (CHF), as they improve survival and quality of life. Their effect on exercise tolerance in the early phase after implantation is still unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of LVADs on the exercise capacity of a group of CHF patients within 2 months after initiation of circulatory support. Cardiopulmonary exercise test data were collected for 26 consecutive LVAD‐implanted CHF patients within 2 months of initiation of assistance; the reference group consisted of 30 CHF patients not supported by LVAD who were evaluated after an episode of acute heart failure. Both LVAD and reference groups showed poor physical performance; LVAD patients achieved lower workload (LVAD: 36.3 ± 9.0 W, reference: 56.6 ± 18.2 W, P < 0.001) but reached a similar peak oxygen uptake (peak VO2; LVAD: 12.5 ± 3.0 mL/kg/min, reference: 13.6 ± 2.9 mL/kg/min, P = ns) and similar percentages of predicted peak VO2 (LVAD: 48.8 ± 13.9%, reference: 54.2 ± 15.3%, P = ns). While the values of the O2 uptake efficiency slope were 12% poorer in LVAD patients than in reference patients (1124.2 ± 226.3 vs. 1280.2 ± 391.1; P = ns), the kinetics of VO2 recovery after exercise were slightly better in LVAD patients (LVAD: 212.5 ± 62.5, reference: 261.1 ± 80.2 sec, P < 0.05). In the first 2 months after initiation of circulatory support, axial‐flow LVAD patients are able to sustain a low‐intensity workload; though some cardiopulmonary exercise test parameters suggest persistence of a marked physical deconditioning, their cardiorespiratory performance is similar to that of less compromised CHF patients, possibly due to positive hemodynamic effects beginning to be produced by the assist device.
HeartWare Ventricular Assist Device as Bridge to Transplant in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Padalino Massimo A. , Bottio Tomaso , Tarzia Vincenzo , Bortolussi Giacomo , Cerutti Alessia , Vida Vladimiro L. , Gerosa Gino , Stellin Giovanni 
Published: October 2013

AbstractLimited options do exist for mechanical circulatory support as a bridge to transplantation in the pediatric population. This is especially true when it comes to intracorporeal technologies. We describe our successful experience with the use of HeartWare ventricular assist devices (HeartWare, Inc., Framingham, MA, USA) in three patients <16 years of age, as a successful and feasible bridge to transplant in patients weighing greater than 20 kg.
Effective Use of Alteplase for Occluded Tunneled Venous Catheter in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Mendes Marcela L. , Castro João H. , Silva Tricya N. , Barretti Pasqual , Ponce Daniela 
Published: October 2013

AbstractDespite their propensity for significant infectious and mechanical complications, tunneled central venous catheters (CVCs) have become a common means of vascular access in the world for patients requiring chronic hemodialysis for end‐stage renal disease. The objective of this study was to explore if cryopreserved solutions of the thrombolytic agent alteplase could be used as an effective, safe, and economically reasonable alternative in hemodialysis patients with occluded tunneled CVC. Patients requiring chronic hemodialysis and presenting with occluded tunneled CVC received a sufficient volume of the alteplase solution to fill the occluded catheter. To make alteplase economically feasible, it was diluted to 1‐mg/mL aliquots and they were stored at −20°C until use. Eighty‐one patients accounting for 179 attempted clearances were assessable for efficacy. One hundred forty‐seven (82.1%) of the 179 catheter clearance attempts resulted in successful catheter clearance after one dose. Twenty‐seven (15.1%) of all occluded CVCs were successful after two doses whereas five (2.8%) were not. No adverse events were reported. Cryopreserved 1‐mg/mL aliquots of alteplase are safe and effective in the clearance of occluded CVC for hemodialysis patients.
Quantitation of Fetal Heart Function With Tissue Doppler Velocity Imaging—Reference Values for Color Tissue Doppler Velocities and Comparison With Pulsed Wave Tissue Doppler Velocities
Authors: Saini Ashish P. , Ural Serdar , Pauliks Linda B. 
Published: October 2013

AbstractQuantitative assessment of fetal heart function has been difficult. Increasingly, tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) is used to measure fetal cardiac function noninvasively. There are two principal techniques, spectral pulsed wave (PW) TDI and color TDI (CTDI). Published reference values for fetal myocardial velocities are based on spectral PW TDI only. However, previous phantom, adult, and animal studies have shown that PW TDI velocities are systematically higher than CTDI velocities. There are no fetal studies so far. We hypothesized that myocardial velocities derived by PW TDI and CTDI are significantly different in the fetus. This prospective observational study included 91 fetuses (gestational age 28.6 ± 6.6 weeks; range 19–40 weeks) seen for routine prenatal ultrasound. From apical 4‐chamber views, tricuspid ring (right ventricle), lateral and septal mitral ring were sampled by PW TDI and CTDI. Bland–Altman analysis was used for comparisons. PW and CTDI S′ velocities correlated strongly in all three cardiac segments (r = 0.6 to 0.9; P < 0.01). There was a systematic bias toward higher velocities with PW TDI versus CTDI (bias 0.96 cm/s; 95% CI 1.08–0.85 cm/s). However, the strength of the correlation and bias varied depending on the region of the fetal heart sampled. PW TDI and CTDI velocity measurements are feasible in the fetus and correlate well. However, PW TDI velocities are higher than CTDI velocities with significant regional variation. This precludes a mathematical conversion of PW to CTDI in vivo. As PW TDI and color TDI vary, different reference values for fetal CTDI velocities were generated.
Comparison of a new portable digital meniscometer and optical coherence tomography in tear meniscus radius measurement
Authors: Bandlitz Stefan , Purslow Christine , Murphy Paul J. , Pult Heiko 
Published: October 2013

AbstractPurposeNon‐invasive measurement of tear meniscus radius (TMR) is useful in the assessment of tear volume for dry eye diagnosis. This study investigates the agreement between a new, portable, slit‐lamp mounted, digital meniscometer (PDM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) in the measurement of human TMR.MethodsImages of the tear meniscus at the centre of the lower lid of 30 normal subjects (8M, 22F; mean age 27.5 SD ± 9.6 years) were taken using the PDM and the OCT. On the PDM and OCT images, TMR was measured using imagej 1.46b software. The meniscus on the OCT images was subdivided vertically into three equal sections and the radius calculated for each: bottom (BTMR), centre (CTMR) and top (TTMR). The relationship between PDM and OCT measurements was analysed using Spearman's rank coefficient, and differences between PDM and OCT subsection measurements were evaluated using Bland–Altman plots.ResultsTear meniscus radius measured with the PDM (0.25 ± 0.06 mm) and OCT (0.29 ± 0.09 mm) was significantly correlated (r = 0.675; p < 0.001). The mean differences between TMR using the PDM and the subsections from OCT showed that TMR measured with PDM was greater for BTMR (0.07 mm; CI 0.05–0.10; p < 0.001), similar for CTMR (−0.01 mm; CI −0.04 to 0.02; p = 0.636) and steeper for TTMR (−0.07 mm; CI −0.10 to −0.04; p < 0.001).ConclusionsPortable digital meniscometer and OCT measurements of the TMR are significantly correlated, suggesting that the new PDM is a useful surrogate for OCT in this respect. The PDM appears to measure the radius of the central section of the tear meniscus.
Using a safe taxi service to transport newborn babies home from hospital
Authors: Eventov‐Friedman S , Bar‐Oz B , Zisk‐Rony RY 
Published: October 2013

AbstractAimTo evaluate an intervention to enhance parents' use of car safety seats (CSSs) for their newborn baby's first journey home from the hospital in a population not usually exposed to television, internet and mainstream printed media.MethodsParents of newborn babies who did not bring a CSS to the hospital before their baby was discharged were lent a CSS to use in a ‘safe taxi’ service. All taxi drivers were trained to install the CSS safely. The intervention was evaluated using preprogramme questionnaires and follow‐up interviews 4–8 weeks after discharge.ResultsTwelve parents participated in the intervention during the study period (January to April 2011) and in the evaluation process. Eleven couples were Jewish and one was Muslim. Most (75%) reported that they had not previously used CSS routinely and the reason was not financial. Following the ‘safe taxi’ intervention, 83% reported the use of CSS when travelling in all vehicles (excluding buses). On follow‐up, most participants reported that the intervention increased their awareness and the use of CSS.ConclusionThe intervention, targeted at this specific population, was well received by the parents, increased awareness, changed practices and assured that more newborns travelled home safely in a CSS.
Estimating reliable paediatric reference intervals in clinical chemistry and haematology
Authors: Ridefelt Peter , Hellberg Dan , Aldrimer Mattias , Gustafsson Jan 
Published: October 2013

AbstractVery few high‐quality studies on paediatric reference intervals for general clinical chemistry and haematology analytes have been performed. Three recent prospective community‐based projects utilising blood samples from healthy children in Sweden, Denmark and Canada have substantially improved the situation.ConclusionThe present review summarises current reference interval studies for common clinical chemistry and haematology analyses.
Review of insulin treatment in stress‐related hyperglycaemia in children without preexisting diabetes
Authors: Ng Sze May , Balmuri Sirisha 
Published: October 2013

AbstractA systematic review was undertaken to assess the effect of using insulin therapy in the treatment for stress hyperglycaemia in children without preexisting diabetes in: achieving normoglycaemia, improving symptoms associated with hyperglycaemia and survival, and to determine if any adverse effects were associated with the use of insulin therapy.ConclusionThere is currently insufficient evidence for the routine use of insulin therapy in stress hyperglycaemia compared with conventional care in children without preexisting diabetes.
White matter microstructure is influenced by extremely preterm birth and neonatal respiratory factors
Authors: Alexandrou Georgios , Mårtensson Gustaf , Skiöld Beatrice , Blennow Mats , Ådén Ulrika , Vollmer Brigitte 
Published: October 2013

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to investigate whether prematurity per se or perinatal risk factors explain altered brain structure after preterm birth, in extremely preterm (EPT) infants without focal brain lesions.MethodsA population‐based cohort of 58 EPT infants [gestational age (GA) <27 + 0 weeks] was examined with diffusion magnetic resonance imaging at term‐equivalent age and compared with 14 term‐born controls. Associations of diffusion measures with prematurity and neonatal risk factors were explored. Data were analysed with tract‐based spatial statistics (TBSS) for whole‐brain analysis and region‐of‐interest (ROI) analysis.ResultsWhole‐brain analyses showed lower fractional anisotropy (FA) and higher mean diffusivity (MD) in several white matter (WM) tracts in the preterms, which was essentially confirmed by ROI analyses. Within the preterm GA range (23 + 0 to 26 + 6 weeks), GA at birth was not significantly associated with diffusion measures. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia predicted lower FA in the corpus callosum and right inferior longitudinal fasciculus; mechanical ventilation >2 days was predictive of higher MD in the right external capsule.ConclusionWhite matter microstructure is influenced by preterm birth and by neonatal respiratory factors, whereas the degree of prematurity within the EPT range appears to be of less importance.
Early discontinuation of thyroxine therapy is possible in most very low‐birthweight infants with hypothyroidism detected by screening
Authors: Lim Gina , Lee Youn Kyung , Han Heon‐Seok 
Published: October 2013

AbstractAimTo determine the feasibility of discontinuing thyroid hormone treatment earlier than recommended by the current guidelines for congenital hypothyroidism.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the medical records of very low‐birthweight (VLBW) infants born at Chungbuk National University Hospital from January 2006 to December 2010. Infants were divided into two groups – hypothyroid and normal thyroid – on the basis of the thyroid function test results. Infants in the hypothyroid group were treated with levothyroxine (L‐T4) and attempts to discontinue this therapy began when they were about 2 years old.ResultsOf the 216 infants born during the study period, 20 died and 196 were included in the study. Of these, 46 were in the hypothyroid group and 150 were in the normal thyroid group. Thirty‐nine infants were taken off L‐T4 therapy at around 2 years of age. All were successfully weaned off L‐T4 and retained normal thyroid function. Tc‐99 m thyroid scans were performed in 32 infants, and no distinct abnormality was noted.ConclusionThyroid dysfunction in VLBW infants was common in our cohort and most cases were transient. Attempts to discontinue this therapy could begin at around the age of two or earlier when low doses of L‐T4 have achieved maintenance.