bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Administrative Law and Policy of the European Union
Authors: Hofmann Herwig C.H. , Rowe Gerard C. , Türk Alexander H. 
Published: January 2012

Abstract
This book provides an analysis of the administration of the European Union and the legal framework within which that administration operates. It examines the multifarious approaches, techniques, and structures of public administration in order to systematize and assess the solutions they offer to political, social, and economic problems. The legal framework of administration is examined from the standpoint of how it meets the demands of specific policy objectives established by democratically accountable decision-makers. Administrative law structures and many of its underlying principles have developed in an evolutionary and isolated manner in each policy area. While aware of the diversity of specific areas, this book takes an overarching approach, setting out the common rules and principles that constitute the general body of EU administrative law. By integrating the disciplines of political and administrative science, and administrative law, the book offers a rich explanation and critique of the complex executive framework of the EU.
Progress for the Poor
Authors: Kenworthy Lane 
Published: January 2012

Abstract
One of the principal goals of antipoverty efforts should be to improve the absolute living standards of the least well-off. This book aims to enhance our understanding of how to do that, drawing on the experiences of twenty affluent countries since the 1970s. The book addresses a set of questions at the heart of political economy and public policy: How much does economic growth help the poor? When and why does growth fail to trickle down? How can social policy help? Can a country have a sizeable low-wage sector yet few poor households? Are universal programs better than targeted ones? What role can public services play in antipoverty efforts? What is the best tax mix? Is more social spending better for the poor? If we commit to improvement in the absolute living standards of the least well-off, must we sacrifice other desirable outcomes?
Increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance among isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae from the PROTEKT surveillance study, and compatative in vitro activity of the ketolide, telithromycin
Authors: Felmingham David , Reinert Ralf Rene , Hirakata Yoichi , Rodloff Arne 
Published: January 2012

Abstract
The prevalence of resistance to a range of antimicrobials was determined for isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae examined in the PROTEKT (Prospective Resistant Organism Tracking and Epidemiology for the Ketolide Telithromycin) surveillance study (1999–2000) using NCCLS testing methods and interpretative criteria. Of 3362 pneumococcal isolates collected from 69 centres in 25 countries, 22.1% overall were resistant to penicillin G, with the highest rates of resistance found among isolates from Asia (53.4%), France (46.2%) and Spain (42.1%). Erythromycin A resistance occurred in 31.1% of isolates overall with the highest rates found in Asia (79.6%), France (57.6%), Hungary (55.6%) and Italy (42.9%). Marked geographical differences in the prevalence of both penicillin G (the Netherlands 0%; South Korea 71.5%) and erythromycin A (Sweden 4.7%; South Korea 87.6%) resistance were observed. Asia was characterized by the highest prevalence of resistance, overall, with only eight of 19 antimicrobials (co-amoxiclav, linezolid, vancomycin, teicoplanin, quinupristin/dalfopristin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin and telithromycin) retaining high activity against isolates of S. pneumoniae from this region. Notable rates of resistance to clarithromycin, azithromycin, co-trimoxazole and tetracycline were observed in the majority of countries submitting isolates of S. pneumoniae to the PROTEKT surveillance study. Fluoroquinolone resistance was low (1%), overall, although 14.3% of 70 isolates from Hong Kong were resistant to levofloxacin and moxifloxacin, all but one of these isolates belonging to a single clone of the 23F serotype. Although, at present, apparently limited to pockets of clonal spread, continued vigilance with regard to the evolution of fluoroquinolone resistance is indicated. Telithromycin (MIC 90 0.12 mg/L; 99.9% of isolates susceptible) and lin- ezolid (MIC 90 2 mg/L; 100% of isolates susceptible) were the two most active oral agents tested, both compounds retaining activity against isolates of fluoroquinolone-resistant S. pneumoniae . The results of the PROTEKT surveillance study 1999–2000 emphasize the widespread evolution of resistance to a variety of antimicrobials amongst isolates of S. pneumoniae and demonstrate the potential of telithromycin as a therapeutic option for the treatment of community-acquired respiratory tract infections caused by this organism.
Clinical and economic implications of antimicrobial resistance for the management of community-acquired respiratory tract infections
Authors: Nicolau David 
Published: January 2012

Abstract
Lower respiratory tract infections (RTIs), particularly community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), account for over 50 million deaths annually worldwide. They place an extensive clinical and financial burden on healthcare authorities. Upper RTIs, usually mild and non-life threatening, also incur significant healthcare costs. The rising prevalence of resistance of the major causative agents of CAP ( Streptococcus pneumoniae , Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis ) to β-lactam antimicrobials and newer macrolides has necessitated new strategies for appropriate antimicrobial usage. A successful clinical outcome will depend on the patient, choice of drug, and the epidemiology and resistance of the pathogen. Treatment failure will result in increased costs, particularly if hospitalization is required. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters are being used increasingly to predict maximally effective therapy and optimal bacterial eradication, thus limiting the development of resistance. Antimicrobial susceptibility criteria by MIC should be dictated by the type and location of the infection. Modifying the current MIC breakpoints for penicillin so that more pneumococcal pneumonia isolates are reported appropriately as being susceptible may lead to a decrease in the use of broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy and its associated increased costs, in favour of more narrow-spectrum therapy. Targeting the pathogen with the most effective antimicrobial in an appropriately selected patient should optimize clinical and microbiological success and, consequently, maximize response rates and economic outcomes. In addition, research efforts need to concentrate on developing new agents with low propensity to select for or induce resistance.
The PROTEKT surveillance study: antimicrobial susceptibility of Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis from community-acquired respiratory tract infections
Authors: Hoban Daryl , Felmingham David 
Published: January 2012

Abstract
This paper presents data relating to Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis from PROTEKT (1999–2000), a surveillance study that examined the susceptibility of respiratory pathogens to current and new antibacterials. β-Lactamase production is the principal mechanism of resistance to ampicillin and other β-lactam antibacterials in H. influenzae and M. catarrhalis . The PROTEKT study showed that globally, the prevalence of β-lactamase production in H. influenzae varied considerably: of 2948 isolates, 489 (16.6%) were β-lactamase-positive [range: 1.8% (Italy) to 65% (South Korea)]. β-Lactamase-negative, ampicillin-resistant (BLNAR) strains of H. influenzae were uncommon (&lt;0.1%) but their very detection highlights the need for continued vigilance. Overall, few isolates of H. influenzae showed resistance to either macrolides or telithromycin. The emergence of clarithromycin-resistant strains is worrying, however, as such isolates may also show resistance to other macrolides. There was a geographical correlation between β-lactamase production and the prevalence of resistance to chloramphenicol and tetracycline among the H. influenzae isolates. Of 1131 M. catarrhalis isolates, 92% were β-lactamase-positive. Most isolates, however, were fully susceptible to nearly all the antibacterials tested, except ampicillin. The most active were ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin (both having MIC 90 values of 0.03 mg/L), moxifloxacin (MIC 90 0.06 mg/L), azithromycin (MIC 90 ≤ 0.06 mg/L) and telithromycin (MIC 90 0.12 mg/L). Overall, there were no concerns in terms of resistance to fluoroquinolones for both H. influenzae and M. catarrhalis . In summary, the PROTEKT surveillance study confirmed the problem of widespread prevalence of β-lactamase-producing strains of H. influenzae and M. catarrhalis , although these pathogens generally remain susceptible to macrolides, fluoroquinolones and the new ketolide telithromycin.
Esophageal Endoscopic Dilations
Authors: Lakhdar‐Idrissi Mounia , Khabbache Kawtar , Hida Moustapha 
Published: January 2012

ABSTRACTObjective:Esophageal strictures in children are serious and require specialized care. Peptic stricture is most common in our context, whereas caustic and congenital strictures are rare. The present study reports our experience in esophageal endoscopic dilation while specifying the causes of esophageal strictures as well as their response to endoscopic treatment.Methods:This is a case study during a period of 7 years, in which 60 cases of esophageal stricture were treated with endoscopic dilation by Savary‐Gilliard bougies. Our patients were divided into 3 groups: group A for peptic strictures (52 patients), group B for caustic strictures (4 patients), and group C for strictures subsequent to esophageal atresia surgery (4 patients). The age of patients was between 10 months and 17 years. Dysphagia was the main symptom and was the major reason for consultation. Two hundred forty‐seven dilation sessions were performed, with an average of 4 sessions per patient ranging from 1 to 15 sessions. The maximum score was observed in group B (50%). Expansion was performed under deep sedation.Results:We had 2 esophageal perforations: 1 in group A and 1 in group B. A good response was obtained in group A (70%) and B (50%). The patients in group C still required repeated sessions.Conclusions:Esophagus endoscopic dilation is an effective technique, especially in peptic stricture, with no need of surgery in some cases. In addition, perforation was rare in this group.
The sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score is prognostically superior to the model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) and MELD variants following paracetamol (acetaminophen) overdose
Authors: Craig D. G. N. , Reid T. W. D. J. , Wright E. C. , Martin K. G. , Davidson J. S. , Hayes P. C. , Simpson K. J. 
Published: January 2012

SummaryBackgroundThe prognostic value of the model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) and sodium‐based MELD variants in predicting survival following paracetamol overdose remains unclear.AimTo examine the prognostic accuracy of sodium‐based MELD variants in paracetamol‐induced acute liver injury compared with the sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score.MethodsRetrospective analysis of 138 single time point paracetamol overdoses admitted to a tertiary liver centre. Individual laboratory samples were correlated with the corresponding clinical parameters in relation to time post‐overdose, and the daily MELD, MELD‐Na, MELDNa, MESO, iMELD, UKELD, updated MELD and SOFA scores were calculated.ResultsSixty‐six (47.8%) patients developed hepatic encephalopathy, of whom 7 were transplanted and 21 died without liver transplantation. SOFA had a significantly greater area under the receiver operator characteristic for the prediction of spontaneous survival compared with MELD at both 72 (P = 0.024) and 96 (P = 0.017) h post‐overdose. None of the sodium‐based MELD variants improved the prognostic accuracy of MELD. A SOFA score >6 by 72 h or >7 by 96 h, post‐overdose predicted death/transplantation with a negative predictive value of 96.9 (95% CI 90.2–99.4) and 98.8 (95% CI 93.6–99.9) respectively. SOFA and MELD had similar accuracy for predicting the development of hepatic encephalopathy (P = 0.493).ConclusionsThe SOFA score is superior to MELD in predicting spontaneous survival following paracetamol‐induced acute liver injury. Modification of the MELD score to include serum sodium does not improve prognostic accuracy in this setting. SOFA may have potential as a quantitative triage marker following paracetamol overdose.
Transfer of 4‐hydroxynonenal from parasitized to non‐parasitized erythrocytes in rosettes. Proposed role in severe malaria anemia
Authors: Uyoga Sophie , Skorokhod Oleksii A. , Opiyo Michael , Orori Emily N. , Williams Thomas N. , Arese Paolo , Schwarzer Evelin 
Published: January 2012

SummarySevere anaemia is a life‐threatening complication of falciparum malaria associated with loss of predominantly non‐parasitized red blood cells (npRBCs). This poorly elucidated process might be influenced by (i) rosettes, i.e. npRBCs cytoadherent to haemozoin‐containing parasitized RBCs (pRBCs) and (ii) generation in pRBCs of 4‐hydroxynonenal (4‐HNE) through haemozoin‐catalysed lipid peroxidation. We explored whether close proximity in rosettes may facilitate 4‐HNE transfer to npRBCs, which is likely to enhance their phagocytosis and contribute to malaria anaemia. Fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry data indicated 4‐HNE transfer to npRBCs in rosettes. Rosettes were formed by 64·8 ± 1·8% varO‐expressing pRBCs, and 8·7 ± 1·1% npRBCs were positive for 4‐HNE‐protein‐conjugates, while low‐rosetting parasites generated only 2·4 ± 1·1% 4‐HNE‐conjugate‐positive npRBCs. 4‐HNE transfer decreased after blocking rosetting by monoclonal antibodies. A positive linear relationship between rosette frequency and 4‐HNE‐conjugates in npRBCs was found in 40 malaria patients, a first indication for a role of rosetting in npRBCs modifications in vivo. Children with severe malaria anaemia had significantly higher percentages of 4‐HNE‐conjugate‐positive npRBCs compared to children with uncomplicated malaria. In conclusion, 4‐HNE transfer from pRBCs to npRBCs in rosettes is suggested to play a role in the phagocytic removal of large numbers of npRBCs, the hallmark of severe malaria anaemia.
New insights in to the treatment of myocardial infarction
Authors: Sarapultsev Petr , Chupakhin Oleg , Sarapultsev Alex , Rantsev Maxim , Sidorova Larisa , Medvedeva Svetlana , Danilova Irina 
Published: January 2012

SummaryThis study investigated the effects of the L‐17 compound of the group of substituted 5R1, 6H2‐1,3,4‐thiadiazine‐2‐amines on the inflammatory cellular infiltration and myocardial remodelling which occurs after acute myocardial infarction (MI) in rats. The study is based upon recent clinical and experimental work which demonstrated the role of local and systemic inflammatory reactions in postinfarction remodelling. Acute MI in rats was induced by left coronary artery coagulation. Animals were sacrificed on day one, five and seven after MI induction. The myocardiumal samples were taken from all parts of the heart and examined by histology. This included areas of infarction, infraction and areas that were peri‐infarctiom and left ventricular areas distant from the damaged tissues. Serum activity of creatine phosphokinase (CPK), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), isoenzymes 1 and 2 and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH1‐2) were investigated on the same three days, before and in the process of MI development was investigated (at days 1, 5 and 7). The L‐17 compound to not only decreased the area of initial infarction but also changed the pattern of inflammatory reaction in the affected myocardium fundamentally. Laboratory studies of effects of L‐17 compound on the development and course of experimental MI showed that administration decreased blood AST and CPK levels significantly and provided useful the data about the correlation between the activity of these enzymes and the dimensions of the significantly necrotic area. In this model of experimental MI the use of the L‐17 compound induced led to the replacement of the exudative destructive inflammation that is seen under standard conditions with a more cellular “productive” pattern of inflammation, with associated reduction in initial necrosis area and the, decrease in myocardial ischaemia and reperfusion injury may account for the accelerated repair process.
Direct and Indirect Regulatory Mechanisms in TH17 cell Differentiation and Functions
Authors: Bi Y. , Yang R. 
Published: January 2012

AbstractT helper 17 (TH17) cells have well‐described roles in autoimmune diseases. The immune modulations of development and function of TH17 have become a key issue. In this review, we summarize the recent findings regarding the direct and indirect signalling regulatory mechanisms of TH17 cells in the general mouse model of autoimmune diseases and other human diseases.
Herpesvirus dermatitis in two cats without facial lesions
Authors: Sánchez Melissa D. , Goldschmidt Michael H. , Mauldin Elizabeth A. 
Published: January 2012

Background – Cats with feline herpesvirus (FeHV‐1)‐associated dermatitis typically present with ulcerative lesions on the rostral muzzle and nasal planum. This report describes FeHV‐1 dermatitis in the flank region, in the absence of facial lesions.Hypothesis/Objectives – Clinicians should be aware of this unusual manifestation of FeHV‐1 dermatitis to prevent potential misdiagnosis.Animals – A 12‐year‐old male castrated Bengal cat and a 3‐year‐old male castrated Siamese cat with plaques and ulcers in the flank region are described.Methods – Formalin‐fixed biopsy samples were obtained from lesional skin. Histopathology and FeHV‐1 immunohistochemistry were performed.Results – Each sample had epidermal and follicular necrosis with a dense dermal infiltrate of eosinophils. Few to moderate numbers of intranuclear inclusion bodies were present in keratinocytes. The presence of FeHV‐1 in the lesions was confirmed with immunohistochemistry.Conclusions and clinical importance – Feline herpesvirus‐associated dermatitis should not be ruled out based on the location of the lesion, because a correct diagnosis is imperative for proper treatment. Future studies to assess the cause of lesions at this unusual site are warranted.
Widespread and sustained cognitive deficits in alcoholism: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Stavro Katherine , Pelletier Julie , Potvin Stéphane 
Published: January 2012

ABSTRACTThe cognitive repercussions of alcohol dependence are well documented. However, the literature remains somewhat ambiguous with respect to which distinct cognitive functions are more susceptible to impairment in alcoholism and to how duration of abstinence affects cognitive recovery. Some theories claim alcohol negatively affects specific cognitive functions, while others assert that deficits are more diffuse in nature. This is the first meta‐analysis to examine cognition in alcohol abuse/dependence and the duration of abstinence necessary to achieve cognitive recovery. A literature search yielded 62 studies that assessed cognitive dysfunction among alcoholics. Effect size estimates were calculated using the Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis V2, for the following 12 cognitive domains: intelligence quotient, verbal fluency/language, speed of processing, working memory, attention, problem solving/executive functions, inhibition/impulsivity, verbal learning, verbal memory, visual learning, visual memory and visuospatial abilities. Within these 12 domains, three effect size estimates were calculated based on abstinence duration. The three groups were partitioned into short‐ (<1 month), intermediate‐ (2 to 12 months) and long‐ (>1 year) term abstinence. Findings revealed moderate impairment across 11 cognitive domains during short‐term abstinence, with moderate impairment across 10 domains during intermediate term abstinence. Small effect size estimates were found for long‐term abstinence. These results suggest significant impairment across multiple cognitive functions remains stable during the first year of abstinence from alcohol. Generally, dysfunction abates by 1 year of sobriety. These findings support the diffuse brain hypothesis and suggest that cognitive dysfunction may linger for up to an average of 1 year post‐detoxification from alcohol.
Risk factors and clinical outcomes of cytomegalovirus disease occurring more than one year post solid organ transplantation
Authors: Blyth D. , Lee I. , Sims K.D. , Gasink L.B. , Barton T.D. , Van Deerlin V.M. , Pfeiffenberger P. , Blumberg E.A. 
Published: January 2012

Abstract:BackgroundCytomegalovirus (CMV) disease typically occurs during the first year after solid organ transplantation, after cessation of antiviral prophylaxis. CMV occurring after the first year is uncommon and not well described.MethodsWe conducted a case–control study to identify potential risk factors and a retrospective cohort study to evaluate 1‐month mortality in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients who developed CMV disease after the first year post transplant, or “very late CMV” (VLCMV), compared with those developing CMV within the first year (CMV Y1), adjusting for demographics, donor and recipient CMV serostatus, immunosuppression, rejection, and co‐morbidities.ResultsWe identified 85 SOT recipients with CMV disease at a single transplant center between January 2006 and October 2008: 23 (27%) had VLCMV and 62 (73%) had CMV Y1. Heart transplantation was independently associated with increased risk (adjusted odd ratio [OR] 4.11; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.34–12.61; P = 0.01) for VLCMV. Patients with VLCMV had increased 1‐month mortality (unadjusted OR 5.39; 95% CI 1.06–27.48; P = 0.02). Mortality was uncommonly attributable to CMV.ConclusionsCMV disease continues to occur after the first year post solid organ transplantation, particularly in heart transplant recipients, and can be associated with poor outcomes. CMV should be suspected in patients with symptoms or laboratory findings consistent with CMV, even if the patients present >1 year post transplant.
Indications for conversion of thoracoscopic to open thoracotomy in video‐assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy
Authors: Li Yun , Wang Jun , Yang Fan , Liu Jun , Li Jianfeng , Jiang Guanchao , Zhao Hui 
Published: January 2012

AbstractBackgroud:  The study aims to discuss indications for conversion to thoracotomy in completely thoracoscopic lobectomy.Methods:  From September 2006 to April 2010, 306 patients (164 men, 142 women, median age 58.1 years, range 15 to 86 years) underwent completely thoracoscopic lobectomy. There were 223 cases of primary lung cancer, 11 other malignant diseases and 72 cases of benign disease. The steps of the thoracoscopic procedures are almost identical to those of traditional open lobectomy, which requires standard mediastinal lymph node dissection for primary lung cancer patients. When conversion to an open procedure is necessary, such as in the presence of lymph node adhesions or metastases and bleeding, operative incisions are extended 12–15 cm towards lower angle of the scapula, retractors are used to separate the ribs, and the procedure is completely under direct visualization.Results:  All procedures were performed without significant complications or intraoperative deaths. The average surgical duration was 195 min, and average blood loss was 256 mL with no blood transfusions required. The average chest tube drainage duration was 7.45 days. The average post‐operative hospital stay was 10.34 days. There were 27 cases (8.8%) of conversion to open thoracotomy, for the reasons of interference by lymph nodes (n= 18), bleeding (n= 4), inflammatory adhesions of arteries (n= 3) and large size tumours (n= 2).Conclusion:  Adhesions or lymph node metastases and bleeding were the most important causes of conversion to thoracotomy in completely thoracoscopic lobectomy. Large tumours, fused fissures and dense pleural adhesions can always be managed thoracoscopically.