bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial Resistance in Wildlife: Implications for Public Health
Authors: Carroll D. , Wang J. , Fanning S. , McMahon B. J. 
Published: February 2015

SummaryThe emergence and spread of antimicrobial‐resistant (AMR) bacteria in natural environments is a major concern with serious implications for human and animal health. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of AMR Escherichia coli (E. coli) in wild birds and mammalian species. Thirty faecal samples were collected from each of the following wildlife species: herring gulls (Larus argentatus), black‐headed gulls (Larus ridibundus), lesser black‐back gulls (Larus fuscus), hybrid deer species (Cervus elaphus x Cervus nippon) and twenty‐six from starlings (Sturnus vulgaris). A total of 115 E. coli isolates were isolated from 81 of 146 samples. Confirmed E. coli isolates were tested for their susceptibility to seven antimicrobial agents by disc diffusion. In total, 5.4% (8/146) of samples exhibited multidrug‐resistant phenotypes. The phylogenetic group and AMR‐encoding genes of all multidrug resistance isolates were determined by PCR. Tetracycline‐, ampicillin‐ and streptomycin‐resistant isolates were the most common resistant phenotypes. The following genes were identified in E. coli: blaTEM, strA, tet(A) and tet(B). Plasmids were identified in all samples that exhibited multidrug‐resistant phenotypes. This study indicates that wild birds and mammals may function as important host reservoirs and potential vectors for the spread of resistant bacteria and genetic determinants of AMR.
A computational model to generate simulated three‐dimensional breast masses
Authors: de Sisternes Luis , Brankov Jovan G. , Zysk Adam M. , Schmidt Robert A. , Nishikawa Robert M. , Wernick Miles N. 
Published: February 2015

Purpose:To develop algorithms for creating realistic three‐dimensional (3D) simulated breast masses and embedding them within actual clinical mammograms. The proposed techniques yield high‐resolution simulated breast masses having randomized shapes, with user‐defined mass type, size, location, and shape characteristics.Methods:The authors describe a method of producing 3D digital simulations of breast masses and a technique for embedding these simulated masses within actual digitized mammograms. Simulated 3D breast masses were generated by using a modified stochastic Gaussian random sphere model to generate a central tumor mass, and an iterative fractal branching algorithm to add complex spicule structures. The simulated masses were embedded within actual digitized mammograms. The authors evaluated the realism of the resulting hybrid phantoms by generating corresponding left‐ and right‐breast image pairs, consisting of one breast image containing a real mass, and the opposite breast image of the same patient containing a similar simulated mass. The authors then used computer‐aided diagnosis (CAD) methods and expert radiologist readers to determine whether significant differences can be observed between the real and hybrid images.Results:The authors found no statistically significant difference between the CAD features obtained from the real and simulated images of masses with either spiculated or nonspiculated margins. Likewise, the authors found that expert human readers performed very poorly in discriminating their hybrid images from real mammograms.Conclusions:The authors’ proposed method permits the realistic simulation of 3D breast masses having user‐defined characteristics, enabling the creation of a large set of hybrid breast images containing a well‐characterized mass, embedded within real breast background. The computational nature of the model makes it suitable for detectability studies, evaluation of computer aided diagnosis algorithms, and teaching purposes.
Gait Speed, Quality of Life, and Sedentary Time are Associated with Steps per Day in Community-Dwelling Older Adults with Osteoporosis
Authors: Dohrn Ing-Mari , Hagströmer Maria , Hellénius Mai-Lis , Ståhle Agneta 
Published: February 2015

Aim:To describe objectively-measured physical activity levels and patterns among community-dwelling older adults with osteoporosis, impaired balance, and fear of falling, and to explore the associations with gait, balance performance, falls self-efficacy, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).Methods:Ninety-four individuals (75.6 ± 5.4 years) were included. Physical activity was assessed with pedometers and accelerometers. Mean steps/day, dichotomized into < 5,000 or = 5,000 steps/day, and time spent in different physical activity intensities were analyzed. Gait was assessed with a GAITRite walkway, balance performance was assessed with the modified figure-eight test and oneleg stance, falls self-efficacy was assessed with the Falls Efficacy Scale International, and HRQoL was assessed with Short Form-36.Results:Mean steps/day were 6,201 (991–17,156) and 40% reported < 5,000 steps/day. Participants with < 5,000 steps/day spent more time sedentary, had slower gait speed, poorer balance performance, and lower HRQoL than participants with ≥ 5,000 steps/day. No participants with < 5,000 met the recommended level of physical activity.
Cognitive functional approach to manage low back pain in male adolescent rowers: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ng Leo , Cañeiro J P , Campbell Amity , Smith Anne , Burnett Angus , O'Sullivan Peter 
Published: January 2015

BackgroundLow back pain (LBP) is prevalent among adolescent rowers. This study evaluated the efficacy of a cognitive functional approach to reduce LBP in this population.MethodsThirty-six adolescent male rowers reporting LBP participated. Nineteen were randomly allocated to the intervention group to receive a cognitive functional approach targeting cognitions, movement patterns, conditioning and lifestyle factors relevant to each rower for 8 weeks. The active control group (n=17) received usual care from their coaches (rowing skills and conditioning exercises). The primary outcome of the study was pain intensity as measured by the Numeric Pain Rating Scale during a 15 min ergometer trial preintervention and postintervention. Disability (Patient Specific Functional Scale and Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire) was measured preintervention/postintervention and at 12 weeks follow-up. Isometric muscle endurance of the back extensors and lower limb muscles, usual sitting posture and regional lumbar kinematic data during a 15 min ergometer row were measured preintervention/postintervention.ResultsCompared with the control group, the intervention group reported significantly less pain during ergometer rowing (Numeric Pain Rating Scale −2.4, p=0.008) and reduced disability (Patient Specific Functional Scale (4.1, p=0.01); Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (−1.7, p=0.003)) following the intervention, and at 12 weeks follow-up. They also demonstrated greater lower limb muscle endurance (20.9 s, p=0.03) and postured their lower lumbar spine in greater extension during static sitting (−9.6°, p=0.007). No significant differences were reported in back muscle endurance and regional lumbar kinematics during ergometer rowing.ConclusionCognitive functional approach was more effective than usual care in reducing pain and disability in adolescent male rowers.Clinical Trial Registry NumberAustralian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry Number 12609000565246.
Sex differences in injury during top-level international athletics championships: surveillance data from 14 championships between 2007 and 2014
Authors: Edouard Pascal , Feddermann-Demont Nina , Alonso Juan Manuel , Branco Pedro , Junge Astrid 
Published: January 2015

BackgroundInjury incidence has been reported for international athletics championships from 2007 to 2012. However, it is unclear whether male or female athletes differ in risk and/or characteristics of injuries.ObjectiveTo compare the incidences and characteristics of injuries that occurred during international athletics championships between female and male athletes.MethodsThe national medical team and the local organising committee physicians reported all injuries daily on a standardised injury report form during 14 international championships from 2007 to 2014. Relative risks (RR) of injury, 95% CI and magnitude thresholds were calculated.ResultsThe rate of injuries per 1000 registered athletes was significantly higher in male (110.3±6.8) than in female (88.5±6.7) athletes (RR=1.25; 95% CI 1.13 to 1.37, small effect size). Male athletes incurred significantly more injuries in the thigh (RR=1.64; 95% CI 1.32 to 2.05, small), lower leg (RR=1.36; 95% CI 1.05 to 1.75, small) and hip/groin injuries (RR=2.26; 95% CI 1.31 to 3.88, moderate), more muscle strains (RR=1.64; 95% CI 1.33 to 2.04, small), cramps (RR=1.81; 95% CI 1.35 to 2.43, small), and especially more thigh strains (RR=1.66; 95% CI 1.25 to 2.19, small), but fewer stress fractures (RR=0.32; 95% CI 0.12 to 0.81, moderate) than female athletes. A higher injury risk of male than of female athletes was observed in sprints (RR=1.32; 95% CI 1.06 to 1.66, small), middle distance runs (RR=1.48; 95% CI 1.06 to 2.06, small), race walks (RR=2.55; 95% CI 1.27 to 5.10, moderate) and jumps (RR=2.13; 95% CI 1.53 to 2.97, moderate). No sex difference was found for cause and severity of injury.ConclusionsInjury risk during international athletics championships differed between female and male athletes for location, type and event groups. Injury prevention strategies should be sex-specific, regarding the differences in injury location and type.
Metformin and breast and gynecological cancer risk among women with diabetes
Authors: Soffer Diana , Shi Jiaxiao , Chung Joanie , Schottinger Joanne E , Wallner Lauren P , Chlebowski Rowan T , Lentz Scott E , Haque Reina 
Published: January 2015

ObjectiveWe investigated if metformin lowers breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancer risk in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus compared with women who used other antidiabetic medications.Research design and methodsWe followed a cohort of 66 778 female patients with diabetes for a maximum of 12 years (median 6 years). We examined breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancer risk, and the composite cancer risk. We examined drug categories using pharmacy records: metformin only; metformin combination regimens; non-metformin regimens; and non-users. We used χ2analyses to examine categorical variables. We conducted multivariable Cox regression models with time-dependent drug use status.ResultsWomen who used metformin combination regimens versus metformin only had a 15% lower breast cancer risk (adjusted HR=0.85, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.04). After stratifying by glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), the association attenuated in those who had poorly controlled HbA1c (adjusted HR=1.06, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.55). Given the small numbers of ovarian and endometrial cancer outcomes, we examined these as a composite. The risk of all cancers combined was similar in those who used metformin combination regimens versus metformin only (adjusted HR=0.92, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.10). We found no significant differences for breast cancer or all cancers combined when we compared risks in non-metformin users versus metformin only users.ConclusionsWomen who used metformin and other antidiabetic drugs had a lower breast cancer risk compared with women who used metformin only, but the results were not significant. We also found no difference in overall cancer risks when we compared women who used other antidiabetic drugs (no metformin) versus metformin users.
Improving screening recall services for women with false-positive mammograms: a comparison of qualitative evidence with UK guidelines
Authors: Bond Mary , Garside Ruth , Hyde Christopher 
Published: January 2015

ObjectivesTo gain an understanding of the views of women with false-positive screening mammograms of screening recall services, their ideas for service improvements and how these compare with current UK guidelines.MethodsInductive qualitative content analysis of semistructured interviews of 21 women who had false-positive screening mammograms. These were then compared with UK National Health Service (NHS) guidelines.ResultsParticipants’ concerns about mammography screening recall services focused on issues of communication and choice. Many of the issues raised indicated that the 1998 NHS Breast Screening Programme guidelines on improving the quality of written information sent to women who are recalled, had not been fully implemented. This included being told a clear reason for recall, who may attend with them, the length of appointment, who they will see and what tests will be carried out. Additionally women voiced a need for: reassurance that a swift appointment did not imply they had cancer; choice about invasive assessment or watchful waiting; the offer of a follow-up mammogram for those uncertain about the validity of their all-clear and an extension of the role of the clinical nurse specialist, outlined in the 2012 NHS Breast Screening Programme (NHSBSP) guidelines, to include availability at the clinic after the all-clear for women with false-positive mammograms.ConclusionsIt is time the NHSBSP 1998 recall information guidelines were fully implemented. Additionally, the further suggestions from this research, including extending the role of the clinical nurses from the 2012 NHSBSP guidelines, should be considered. These actions have the potential to reduce the anxiety of being recalled.
Metformin Use and Lung Cancer Risk in Patients with Diabetes
Authors: Sakoda Lori C. , Ferrara Assiamira , Achacoso Ninah S. , Peng Tiffany , Ehrlich Samantha F. , Quesenberry Charles P. , Habel Laurel A. 
Published: February 2015

Abstract
Methodologic biases may explain why observational studies examining metformin use in relation to lung cancer risk have produced inconsistent results. We conducted a cohort study to further investigate this relationship, accounting for potential biases. For 47,351 patients with diabetes ages ≥40 years, who completed a health-related survey administered between 1994 and 1996, data on prescribed diabetes medications were obtained from electronic pharmacy records. Follow-up for incident lung cancer occurred from January 1, 1997, until June 30, 2012. Using Cox regression, we estimated lung cancer risk associated with new use of metformin, along with total duration, recency, and cumulative dose (all modeled as time-dependent covariates), adjusting for potential confounding factors. During 428,557 person-years of follow-up, 747 patients were diagnosed with lung cancer. No association was found with duration, dose, or recency of metformin use and overall lung cancer risk. Among never smokers, however, ever use was inversely associated with lung cancer risk [HR, 0.57; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.33–0.99], and risk appeared to decrease monotonically with longer use (≥5 years: HR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.21–1.09). Among current smokers, corresponding risk estimates were &gt;1.0, although not statistically significant. Consistent with this variation in effect by smoking history, longer use was suggestively associated with lower adenocarcinoma risk (HR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.40–1.17), but higher small cell carcinoma risk (HR, 1.82; 95% CI, 0.85–3.91). In this population, we found no evidence that metformin use affects overall lung cancer risk. The observed variation in association by smoking history and histology requires further confirmation. Cancer Prev Res; 8(2); 174–9. ©2014 AACR.
Atmospheric Responses to Kuroshio SST Front in the East China Sea under Different Prevailing Winds in Winter and Spring
Authors: Xu Mimi , Xu Haiming 
Published: February 2015

AbstractAtmospheric responses to the Kuroshio SST front in the East China Sea under different prevailing winds are examined using high-resolution observations and numerical modeling. Satellite data reveal a significant in-phase relationship between SST and surface wind speed, indicative of ocean-to-atmosphere influence. The atmospheric response varies according to the relative surface wind direction with respect to the SST front orientation. Under the alongfront condition, low (high) SLP anomalies are found on the warmer (colder) flank of the front, accompanied by surface wind convergence (divergence). Enhanced precipitation and frequent cumulus convection appear over the warm Kuroshio, suggesting an atmospheric response extending into the free troposphere. Under the cross-front condition, when the air blows from cold to warm (warm to cold) SST, divergence (convergence) is located directly over the SST front, and its magnitude is proportional to the downwind SST gradient. Under such prevailing winds, the SST front has little effect on the SLP and precipitation.The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model is used to investigate the mechanism responsible for the atmospheric adjustment. The results show that under the alongfront condition, large temperature and pressure perturbations in the boundary layer are caused by SST gradients, while stability and turbulent mixing are less affected. By contrast, under the cross-front condition, the perturbations of temperature and pressure are small and shifted downstream, while the SST gradient exerts stronger impact on vertical mixing. The modeling results confirm that the pressure adjustment mechanism contributes more to the atmospheric response under alongfront prevailing winds, while the vertical mixing mechanism dominates the atmospheric adjustment under cross-front winds.
Efficacy of JAK/STAT pathway inhibition in murine xenograft models of early T-cell precursor (ETP) acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Maude Shannon L. , Dolai Sibasish , Delgado-Martin Cristina , Vincent Tiffaney , Robbins Alissa , Selvanathan Arthavan , Ryan Theresa , Hall Junior , Wood Andrew C. , Tasian Sarah K. , Hunger Stephen P. , Loh Mignon L. , Mullighan Charles G. , Wood Brent L. , Hermiston Michelle L. , Grupp Stephan A. , Lock Richard B. , Teachey David T. 
Published: February 2015

Key Points
ETP-ALL, a high-risk subtype of T-ALL, is characterized by aberrant activation of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. The JAK1/2 inhibitor ruxolitinib demonstrates robust activity in patient-derived xenograft models of ETP-ALL.
Strong localization effect and carrier relaxation dynamics in self-assembled InGaN quantum dots emitting in the green
Authors: Weng Guo-En , Zhao Wan-Ru , Chen Shao-Qiang , Akiyama Hidefumi , Li Zeng-Cheng , Liu Jian-Ping , Zhang Bao-Ping 
Published: February 2015

Abstract
Strong localization effect in self-assembled InGaN quantum dots (QDs) grown by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition has been evidenced by temperature-dependent photoluminescence (PL) at different excitation power. The integrated emission intensity increases gradually in the range from 30 to 160 K and then decreases with a further increase in temperature at high excitation intensity, while this phenomenon disappeared at low excitation intensity. Under high excitation, about 40% emission enhancement at 160 K compared to that at low temperature, as well as a higher internal quantum efficiency (IQE) of 41.1%, was observed. A strong localization model is proposed to describe the possible processes of carrier transport, relaxation, and recombination. Using this model, the evolution of excitation-power-dependent emission intensity, shift of peak energy, and linewidth variation with elevating temperature is well explained. Finally, two-component decays of time-resolved PL (TRPL) with various excitation intensities are observed and analyzed with the biexponential model, which enables us to further understand the carrier relaxation dynamics in the InGaN QDs.
The development and implementation of a training package for dietitians on cow's milk protein allergy in infants and children based on UK RCPCH competencies for food allergies – a pilot study
Authors: Reeves Liane , Meyer Rosan , Holloway Judith , Venter Carina 
Published: February 2015

AbstractBackgroundMany food allergy guidelines have been published worldwide over recent years. The United Kingdom National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence guidelines and The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health food allergy care pathways require dietitians to assist with the diagnosis and management of food allergies, which highlighted the need for further education of dietitians to meet these competencies. The aim of this study was to design a competence based one day education course for dietitians on the diagnosis and management of cow's milk protein allergy in infants and children.MethodsA one day training course was developed. Dietitians’ knowledge was assessed via multiple choice questions before and on the day of the course and retention of knowledge was assessed one month after the course. Pre course reading was given once the first assessment was completed.ResultsThirty seven dietitians attended the course and 32 completed all three assessments. A significant improvement in assessment scores was seen between the pre course and on the day assessments of 7.2% (p < 0.001) and between pre course and post course assessments of 8.9% (p < 0.001). In delegates who rated their perceived level of knowledge as high, a significant increase was seen between pre course and on the day and between pre course and post course (both p < 0.001). Actual increase in knowledge was seen alongside a significant increase in high rating of perceived level of confidence between pre course and on the day and between pre course and post course (both p < 0.001).ConclusionsEducating dietitians using the format of one day teaching with pre and post course assessment has improved both knowledge and competencies in the diagnosis and management of cow's milk protein allergy. Further courses in other areas of food allergy could be developed using this approach within the UK and worldwide.