bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Population Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Methods
Authors: Bulitta Jürgen B , Holford Nicholas H G 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic models are widely used to provide the quantitative basis for understanding the clinical pharmacology of pharmaceuticals. These models are used to describe both the average behavior in the population and differences between individuals. Pharmacokinetic models describe the time course of absorption, distribution, and elimination of a drug and any metabolites. Pharmacodynamic models describe the relationship between drug concentration and biological response. The pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic model often has to account for a delay between the time course of concentrations and the time course of pharmacodynamic effect. Statistical models can describe the predictable and the unpredictable variability between and within subject variability in response. Predictable variability is most commonly understood for drug elimination processes and typically uses subject factors such as weight, renal function, and other medications to account for between subject differences. Unpredictable variability is usually larger than predictable variability. A wide variety of software has been developed for implementing these pharmacological and statistical models; of these, NONMEM (GloboMax LLC, Hanover, MD) is the most widely used. Newer algorithms are actively being developed. Model building and parameter estimation are often computationally intensive. Population models are used by drug developers to create a rationale framework for development, by regulatory health authorities to evaluate clinical trials and enhance product labels and by clinical researchers to understand human biology and disease progression.
National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (
NIHSS
)
Authors: Ortiz Gustavo A. , Sacco Ralph L. 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) is a systematic assessment tool designed to measure the neurological deficits most often seen with acute stroke. It assesses level of consciousness, gaze, visual fields, facial weakness, motor performance of the extremities, sensory deficit, coordination (ataxia), language (aphasia), speech (dysarthria), and hemi‐inattention (neglect). For all parameters, a value of 0 is normal; so, the higher the score, the worse the neurological deficit (the highest possible score is 42). The scale was designed to be done quickly and easily at the bedside to provide a rapid and standardized assessment of neurological function in the early periods after a stroke. It has been validated and has been shown to be reliable, even when performed by non‐neurologists and non‐physicians.
DNA
Bank
Authors: Sivakumaran Theru A , Iyengar Sudha K 
Published: June 2008

Abstract

Most diseases are multifactorial and are caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Similarly, the way a person responds to a drug is also a complex trait that is influenced by many different genes. Paradigms to identify causative genetic variants responsible for disease or response to drugs are well described in the literature, and the following essential elements are required for successful completion of such studies: (
1
) rapid detection of genetic variation; (
2
) large number of samples of high quality with well‐characterized clinical data from participants, which includes longitudinal follow‐up for effect of treatment; (
3
) advanced informatics for storage and retrieval of samples and data; and (
4
) establishment of correlation between clinical and genetic data through modern statistical techniques. Although the basic conventions for sample collection in gene mapping were already established, it was only after completion of Human Genome Project and the initiation of the International HapMap Project that the need for large databases of well‐phenotyped study participants collected under unified protocols with DNA available was expressed. These endeavors resulted in the establishment of national and international DNA banks aimed initially at mapping specific disease entities, but later encompassing more global undertakings. Establishment of these DNA biobanks has not been without ethical, legal, and personal controversies, although their value to the biomedical research community is indisputable. The overall outcome of these initiatives is that the promise of personalized medicine is nearby, particularly for identification of the genetic variations responsible for drug response. We anticipate that clinical trials could perform genetic prescreening to exclude people who are unresponsive to treatment, which reduces side effects and increases the effectiveness of the drug for particular subgroups. This model is already being implemented for the P450 class of drugs, with the hope of more to come.
Statins
Authors: Wilson Peter F. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe roles of statins to decrease blood cholesterol levels and to reduce risk for cardiovascular disease in the blood are described. Mechanism of action, safety, efficacy, drug interactions, and results from major randomized clinical trials are the major topics discussed. Recent data are summarized and provide an understanding of the clinical role of use of statins as agents for primary and secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Recent comprehensive reviews have identified no relative risk differences for statins in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases for persons <65 years versus >65 years, men versus women, treated hypertension versus no hypertension, history of diabetes mellitus versus no diabetes mellitus, LDL‐C at baseline <135 mmol/L versus ≥135 mg/dl.
Clinical Data Management
Authors: McBride Ruth 
Published: June 2008

AbstractClinical data management is data management systems and process focused on providing clean, current and reliable data to support clinical research, especially for clinical trials. Computerized systems have been used since the early 1960's. Current clinical data management systems vary. Many, but not all clinical trials use electronic data capture to collect data from clinical research sites. Efforts are underway to standardize the way clinical data are organized.
Poisson Regression
Authors: Glimm Ekkehard , Branson Michael 
Published: June 2008

AbstractPoisson regression is a method to model the frequency of event counts or the event rate, such as the number of adverse events of a certain type or frequency of epileptic seizures during a clinical trial, by a set of covariates. The counts are assumed to follow a Poisson distribution with an intensity rate that is modeled as a function of the covariates. The Poisson regression model is a special case of a generalized linear model (GLM) with a log link. Consequently, it is often presented as an example in the broader context of GLM theory.
European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC)
Authors: Piccart‐Gebhardt Martine , Meunier Francoise 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) is a pan‐European nonprofit cancer research organization that develops conducts, coordinates, and stimulates high‐quality translational and clinical research to improve the standards of cancer care. Founded in 1962, the EORTC has since developed into a vast network of cancer research expertise and infrastructure with more than 2500 scientists and clinicians who collaborate across over 200 affiliated institutions and academic centers in 30 countries. Cancer clinical trial research carried out by the EORTC has contributed to improvements in the quality of life and survival of cancer patients, extended the definition of standards for cancer patient care, advanced the practice of organ preservation as well as minimal and nonmutilating cancer surgery, and established diagnostic and treatment guidelines that aid clinicians in the treatment decision‐making process. The EORTC has also contributed to the advancement of cancer research through its educational programs and activities for scientists, clinicians, young researchers, patients, and the public. The EORTC has undertaken organizational and strategic initiatives throughout the years and continues to adopt novel strategic approaches to meet the challenges of the rapidly changing cancer research environment. Additional breakthroughs in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer in the current era of molecular biology will be accomplished primarily through translational research projects, efficient drug development, and the conduct of translational research‐guided large prospective randomized multicenter clinical trials. The EORTC has been a leader in cancer research for over 45 years and will continue to devote its energy and expertise to high‐quality clinical cancer research throughout the twenty‐first century to improve the standards of cancer care, advance the scientific understanding of cancer as a disease, and address pivotal strategic therapeutic questions.
Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial (MRFIT)
Authors: Eberly Lynn E. , Stamler Jeremiah , Kuller Lewis H. , Neaton James D. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial (MRFIT) was a randomized controlled trial on primary prevention of coronary heart disease (CHD) death in men with elevated blood pressure (BP), serum cholesterol, and/or smoking habit. In all, 361,662 men were screened in 18 U.S. cities; 12,866 men were randomized to multifactor Special Intervention (SI) or Usual Care (UC). With a 7 year average follow‐up, the CHD death rate was 7.1% lower for SI than UC [relative difference in proportion dead; 90% CI (−15%, 25%)]. UC men made more extensive risk factor reductions than anticipated in trial design, and the number of UC deaths was substantially smaller than expected. This result led to an underpowered comparison. Post‐hoc assessments showed significantly lower rates of combined morbidity/mortality outcomes for SI than UC. Other findings from MRFIT substantially changed the treatment of hypertension, and long‐term epidemiologic follow‐up of all 361,662 screenees yielded important findings of great impact on major public health and medical care issues.
Data Standards
Authors: Helton Edward , Kush Rebella 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
The “globalization” of clinical research over the past two decades has stressed routine paper‐based processes and the associated regulatory guidelines. A slow but steady trend has occurred toward electronic clinical trials within the industry and electronic regulatory submissions by regulatory authorities. This trend has in turn encouraged the development and adoption of data standards to facilitate exchange of clinical research information among partners (i.e., interoperability among computer systems). Standards to support clinical research from protocol development through analysis, reporting, and archive of electronic data are now available through the Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC). A concurrent commitment has been made to harmonize these clinical research standards with those healthcare standards through Health Level Seven (HL7) since 2001; the rationale is to pave the way for the use of electronic health records for research and safety reporting, in addition to patient care, to improve the workflow associated with clinical research for investigative site personnel. CDISC standards are now being implemented and adopted globally. In addition, the FDA has participated in pilot projects with CDISC to identify best practices for implementation. More work must be done to augment the base standards; all stakeholders in clinical research are encouraged to become involved in influencing and extending this collaborative work.
Efficient graph‐theoretical force method for two‐dimensional rectangular finite element analysis
Authors: Kaveh A. , Koohestani K. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractIn this paper an efficient method is developed for the formation of null bases of finite element models (FEMs) consisting of rectangular plane stress and plane strain elements, corresponding to highly sparse and banded flexibility matrices. This is achieved by associating special graphs with the FEM and selecting appropriate subgraphs and forming the self‐stress systems on these subgraphs. The efficiency of the present method is illustrated through three examples. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Changes in physical and chemical properties of shortenings used for commercial deep‐fat frying
Authors: Smith L. M. , Clifford A. J. , Hamblin C. L. , Creveling R. K. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThis study evaluated some of the changes that occur in shortenings used for commercial deep‐fat frying in fast‐service restaurants. Foods cooked in partially hydrogenated soybean oil were battered chicken parts and french fries. Sixty‐five samples of fresh and used shortenings were collected from nine restaurants on three occasions over a three‐month period. Frying periods varied from 0 to 300 hr, and most samples were taken just before the used fat was discarded. For fresh shortenings, percentages of polar materials, free fatty acids (FFA), materials not eluted by gas chromatography, and fatty acid profiles differed only slightly. For used samples, there were marked variations in these analyses and in increases of dielectric constant measurements. Frying times were highly correlated with increases in dielectric constant, polar materials and FFA. The greatest change in fatty acid profiles occurred intrans‐C18 monoenes which decreased from over 40% to as low as 13%. Due to lipid exchange with chicken fat, both oleic and linoleic acids increased in the shortenings with hours of use, whereas stearic acid decreased. There were high correlations, among increases in dielectric constant, percentages of polar materials and FFA, demonstrating that each of these methods could predict degradation of the shortening. However, the increase in dielectric constant, as measured by a Foodoil Sensor (FOS), was the most convenient for quality control in restaurant situations. In most cases, used shortening was discarded before 100 hr of frying time; and only a few of these samples had FOS readings near 4.0, FFA over 1.00%, or percentages of polar materials over 27%. These values have been suggested as discard criteria. However, a number of samples used between 100 and 300 hr exceeded these limits. There is a need to specify suitable limits, related to quality and health factors, to determine at what point a cooking fat should be discarded.
Effects of varied substrates on aflatoxin production byA. parasiticus
Authors: Farag R. S. , El‐Leithy M. A. , Basyony A. E. , Daw Z. Y. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractSterilized and nonsterilized wheat kernels, soybean seeds, sesame seeds, peanut and faba bean were infected byA. parasiticus. The chemical composition, aflatoxin content and fatty acid patterns of the seeds were determined. The aflatoxins B1, B2, G1 and G2 were detected, and the amounts of the unsaturated toxins (B1 and G1) were greater than the respective dihydro derivatives (B2 and G2). Sterilized seeds infected by the fungus contained greater amounts of aflatoxins than those infected without previous sterilization. the highest and lowest toxicity indices were recorded for sterilized wheat and soybeans, respectively. Sesame, peanut and soybean exhibited intermediate toxicity indices. The toxicity of the aflatoxins produced was related significantly in every instance to the carbohydrate and lipid:protein ratio, and not to the polyunsaturated fatty acids of the seeds.
Heterogeneous catalytic hydrogenation of canola oil using palladium
Authors: Hsu N. , Diosady L. L. , Graydon W. F. , Rubin L. J. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe hydrogenation of canola oil was studied using palladium black as a potential catalyst for producing partially hydrogenated fats with lowtrans‐isomer content. Pressure (150‐750 psig) appeared to have the largest effect ontrans‐isomer formation. At 750 psig, 90 C and 560 ppm metal concentration, a maximum of 18.7%trans isomers was obtained at IV 53. A nickel catalyst produces about 50%rans isomers at the same IV. For palladium black, the linolenate and linoleate selectivities were 1.2 and 2.7, respectively. The maximum level oftrans isomers observed ranged from 18.7% to 42.8% (150 psig). Temperature (30‐90 C) and catalyst concentration (80‐560 ppm) affected the reaction rate with little effect ontrans‐isomer formation and selectivities. At 250 psig and 50 C, supported palladium (5% Pd/C) appeared to be twice as active as palladium black. At 560 ppm Pd, 5% Pd/C produced 30.2%trans (IV 67.5), versus 19.0%trans for palladium black (IV 68.9). Respective linoleate selectivities were 15 and 6.6, while linolenate selectivities were approximately unity. Analysis of the oil samples by neutron activation showedapproximately a 1 ppm, Pdresidue after filtration.
Headspace volatile analysis to evaluate oxidative and thermal stability of soybean oil. Effect of hydrogenation and additives
Authors: Snyder J. M. , Frankel E. N. , Warner K. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractHeadspace gas chromatographic analysis of heated soybean oil was investigated as a tool to determine what effect hydrogenation and additives have on the formation of total and individual volatile components. Soybean oil was hydrogenated to varying linolenate (Ln) contents with either nickel (Ni) or copper catalysts. Oils were stabilized with citric acid (CA) or a combination of CA with tertiary butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ) and/or methyl silicone (MS). Volatiles were analyzed with a capillary gas chromatography equipped with a headspace sampler positioned on the injector. Oxidative stability was determined after storage of the oils at 60 C. To study thermal abuse and frying performance of oils, samples were heated for several, hours with prolonged bread frying. The deterioration of the oil was accelerated further by static heating in air within the headspace sampler. All hydrogenated oils produced less total volatiles than the unhydrogenated control oil after prolonged heating and bread frying. Static heating at 190 C for one hr showed that the oil hydrogenated with Ni to 0.4% Ln was the most stable. MS decreased the formation of volatiles in all samples and was particularly effective, in stabilizing the hydrogenated oils. However, MS had little effect on volatiles in the oil hydrogenated to 0.4% with Ni. Unique volatile compounds identified included 2,4‐heptadiental in nonhydrogenated soybean oil and 2‐nonenal in most hydrogenated oils. On heating, the amount of 2‐heptanal decreased significantly in the Ni hydrogenated oils compared to the control. Hexanal, on the other hand, decreased in all hydrogenated oils compared to the control.
The effects of surfactant concentration and crystal size on the olein yield from the detergent fractionation of tallow
Authors: Glassner David A. , Grulke Eric A. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe surfactant concentration, the electrolyte concentration, the detergent solution to tallow weight ratio and the crystal surface area affect the olein yield from the detergent fractionation of tallow. Three crystal sizes were produced by using various rates of cooling for the partial crystallization step. The amount of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) needed to maximize olein yield was proportional to the surface area of the crystals. The olein yield of the separation increased with increasing detergent solution to tallow weight ratio and increased with increasing electrolyte concentration up to their optimum levels.
Understanding How Participation in a Consumer‐Run Organization Relates to Recovery
Authors: Brown Louis D. , Shepherd Matthew D. , Merkle Edgar C. , Wituk Scott A. , Meissen Greg 
Published: July 2008

AbstractThe goal of this study was to examine how different types of participation in a consumer‐run organization (CRO) are related to recovery. More specifically, this study uses structural equation modeling to examine the relative impact of empowering and socially supportive participation experiences on progress towards recovery among 250 CRO members from 20 CROs. An empowering participation experience refers to involvement in leadership roles and contribution to organizational functioning. A socially supportive participation experience refers to social involvement in mutually supportive friendships with intimacy and sharing. Results indicate that both types of participation are associated with recovery, although a socially supportive participation experience maintains a stronger relationship with recovery than an empowering participation experience. Findings are consistent with the idea that CROs should encourage both types of participation. Drawing from over ten years of experience supporting CROs, the discussion section explores several strategies CROs can use to foster empowering and socially supportive participation experiences.
Benefits and Changes for Family to Family Graduates
Authors: Lucksted Alicia , Stewart Bette , Forbes Courtney B. 
Published: July 2008

AbstractFamily members of people with serious mental illnesses (SMI) need information and support to cope with the considerable stresses they experience. The Family to Family Education Program (FtF) is a structured, peer‐led, 12‐week information and support self‐help class for such individuals. Previous research by Dixon et al. (2004) shows reduced subjective burden and increased empowerment among graduates. The present study sought to understand what processes take place during FtF participation that might lead to these benefits, as a first step in building a conceptual model of how FtF causes its effects, using semi‐structured interviews with 31 FtF graduates. Qualitative data analysis suggested that new factual and emotional information from FtF shifts interviewees' understanding of their situation and that skills acquired through FtF then allow participants to incorporate these new perspectives into more adaptive behaviors. These changes led to both proximal and distal benefits for the FtF participants interviewed. The results are discussed in the context of self‐help, stress‐and‐coping, and trauma recovery theories.
Soil penetrability as a key factor affecting the nesting of burrowing birds
Authors: Heneberg Petr 
Published: June 2008

AbstractSoil penetrability resistance was found to be crucial for nest site selection of all three Central European burrowing bird species—Sand Martins (Riparia riparia), European Bee‐eaters (Merops apiaster), and Eurasian Kingfishers (Alcedo atthis). Soil penetrability resistance measurements were used to find out whether increased hardness of unexcavated banks is the key factor affecting the presence of burrowing birds. All three species avoided banks composed of too compact or too loose soils. Birds discriminated not only between high‐ and low‐quality breeding banks, but also between different soil strata within banks. In banks with generally low penetrability resistance, Sand Martins preferred soil strata with the highest available penetrability resistance and compactness to avoid hole collapses. There was a preference for hard soil below holes to serve as a resistant platform when birds begin to dig their holes. In Sand Martins, the penetrability resistance level affected physical characteristics of holes such as tunnel length and dimensions of the orifices. Excessive compactness—and probably not high talus presence—was a major cause of abandonment of Sand Martin localities. A high penetrability resistance is the crucial factor for site selection in Sand Martins.