bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sequential combination therapy of HBe antigen‐negative/virus‐DNA‐positive chronic hepatitis B with famciclovir or lamivudine and interferon‐alpha‐2a
Authors: Schiefke Ingolf , Klecker Chris , Maier Melanie , Oesen Ute , Etzrodt Gunnar , Tannapfel Andrea , Liebert Uwe G. , Berr Frieder 
Published: April 2004

Background/Aims: Hepatitis B e antigen‐negative/hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA‐positive chronic hepatitis B (CHBe−) exhibits a high relapse rate on monotherapy with lamivudine or interferon‐alpha (IFN‐α). We investigated, whether sequential therapy with famciclovir or lamivudine followed by combination with IFN‐α‐2a improves durable virologic response in CHBe− characterized by mutation analysis of the HBV precore genome region.Methods: Fourteen patients were treated with famciclovir (n=3) or lamivudine for 4 weeks to reduce the viral load, and subsequently with the combination of the nucleoside analogue and IFN‐α‐2a until 16 weeks beyond the loss of serum HBV‐DNA.Results: Median duration of therapy was 29.0 weeks (range 20.6–48.3 weeks). Serum HBV‐DNA was undetectable and alanine aminotransferase had normalized in all patients at the end of treatment. Seven (50%) patients maintained a sustained response 12 months after end of treatment. Only two of them had been infected by HBV with the G1896A mutation. Most patients (5/7) with the G1896A mutation relapsed within 4 months after therapy.Conclusion: Sequential combination therapy can induce sustained virologic response in a subgroup of CHBe−, but most with the G1896A precore mutant HBV relapse. Trials of CHBe− should be based on characterization of HBV mutants.
Hydrotherapy Use During Labor: An Integrative Review
Authors: Stringer Marilyn , Hanes Lisa 
Published: April 2004

Abstract(1) Hydrotherapy is an effective, alternative intervention that can be used by care providers to provide a nonpharmacological method to assist low risk, laboring women cope with labor. This article provides a synthesis of the state of the science on the effects of hydrotherapy with labor and delivery. The indications, physiologic mechanism, benefits, practice implications, and needed research are discussed. The data‐based articles support numerous benefits such as increased relaxation, increased satisfaction, lower blood pressure, and increased diuresis with women who bathe during labor. These studies found that there was no difference in maternal and neonatal morbidity such as infections between bathers and nonbathers. Additionally, there was no difference in maternal and neonatal infection rates between women with intact or ruptured membranes. The use of hydrotherapy during established labor increases cervical dilation while bathing although there is no difference in the total length of labor between bathers and nonbathers. Researchers conclude that hydrotherapy is a safe, nonpharmacological alternative for women to use during labor and delivery.
A Systematic Overview of Interventions to Reduce Physical Restraint Use in Long‐Term Care Settings
Authors: Godkin M. Dianne , Onyskiw Judee E. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractPurpose(1) The purpose of this systematic integrative review was to summarize the empirical evidence regarding the effectiveness of interventions or programs to reduce physical restraint use in long‐term care facilities.Conclusion(2) Research findings indicate that physical restraint reduction programs which included an educational component, restraint removal, and interventions individualized to residents' specific needs were successful in decreasing restraint use. There were no significant negative consequences for residents or staff associated with the implementation of restraint reduction programs or interventions. Educational programs had a positive impact on nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding restraint use. Findings, however, must be considered in light of the methodological weaknesses noted in the studies.Implication(3) The practice goal of achieving least‐restraint or restraint‐ free long‐term care facilities is an appropriate and achievable one. This objective can be facilitated through ongoing mandatory educational programs for staff, individualized assessment and implementation of appropriate interventions for residents, and adequate administrative support. Well‐designed research studies investigating the efficacy of specific interventions, cross‐cultural issues, and longitudinal outcomes would all contribute to the further development of evidence‐based practice regarding restraint use in long‐term care facilities.
Exposure Risk in the Handling and Administration of Chemotherapy Agents: A Review and Synthesis of the Literature
Authors: Ritchie Mary Ann , McAdams Cathy , Fritz Nancy 
Published: April 2004

AbstractPurpose(1) This paper synthesizes research findings on known exposure risks to and compliance among health care professionals in the handling of neoplastic agents and suggests implications for practice and future research.Conclusions(2) The exposure risk for experiencing mutagenicity and alterations in fertility from chemotherapy agents among health care professionals has been extensively studied. Exposure risk and its relationship to health care professionals' compliance to established protocols for the safe handling and administration of chemotherapy agents continues to be a concern for health care institutions. Research in this area has been mainly retrospective and most studies have used a causal‐comparative design; the degree of mutagenicity has been quantified for an identified exposed group and compared with a group that has not been exposed to antineoplastic agents. The evaluation of exposure has been found to be a complex problem because of the considerable mediating factors that are multifactorial and interactive in nature. Despite these confounding factors, the findings of past studies suggest that unsafe practice leads to an increased risk of exposure.Implications(3) Findings from existing research indicate that compliance with established safety guidelines offers adequate protection to those health care workers involved in the handling, administration and care of patients receiving chemotherapy agents.
Effect of cyclosporin A on alveolar bone homeostasis in a rat periodontitis model
Authors: Nassar C. A. , Nassar P. O. , Abi Rached R. S. G. , Holzhausen M. , Marcantonio E. , Spolidorio L. C. 
Published: April 2004

Objectives:  The administration of cyclosporin A has been associated with significant bone loss and increased bone remodeling. The present investigation was designed to evaluate the effects of cyclosporin A on alveolar bone of rats subjected to experimental periodontitis, using serum, stereometric and radiographic analysis.Methods:  Twenty‐four rats were divided into one of the following groups with six animals each: group I, control rats; group II, in which the animals received a cotton ligature around the lower first molars; group III, in which the rats received a cotton ligature around the lower first molars and were treated with 10 mg/(kg body weight day) of cyclosporin A; group IV, in which the rats were treated with 10 mg/(kg body weight day) of cyclosporin A. At the end of experimental period, at 30 days, animals were killed and the serum calcium and alkaline phosphatase levels were measured in all groups. The distance from the alveolar bone crest to the cemento–enamel junction was measured radiographically for each mesial surface of the lower first molars of each rat. After histological processing, the stereological parameters: volume densities of multinucleated osteoclasts (Vo), alveolar bone (Vb), marrow (Vm), and relation of eroded surface/bone surface (Es/Bs) were assessed at the mesial region of the alveolar bone.Results:  Significant decreases in serum calcium were observed in those groups that received cyclosporin A therapy. No significant changes in serum alkaline phosphatase were observed. The therapy with cyclosporin A combined with the ligature placement decreased the Vb and increased the Vo, Vm and Es/Bs at the mesial surface of lower first molars. On the other hand, the radiographic data showed that cyclosporin A therapy diminished the alveolar bone loss at the mesial surface of the lower first molars.Conclusions:  Therefore, within the limits of this study, we suggest that cyclosporin A at immunosuppressive levels can bring about an imbalance in the alveolar bone homeostasis in rats. However, in the presence of inflammatory stimulation, the inhibition of the immune system by cyclosporin A may decrease the initial periodontal breakdown.
Erectile Dysfunction in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Cummings Michael H. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractErectile dysfunction is extremely common and observed in 30 to 50% of diabetic men. Diabetes represents the major cause of erectile dysfunction worldwide. There have been considerable advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of this condition. Neurovascular factors have been further implicated as key components in its development. In particular, however, there is greater insight into the biochemical mediators of smooth muscle relaxation and constriction within the corpus cavernosum and abnormalities of these processes in diabetic men with erectile dysfunction. Nitric oxide, for example, has been identified as an essential substance involved in penile smooth muscle relaxation and is implicated in the development of erectile dysfunction. This observation has been exploited in the production of new therapeutic approaches such as oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. This class of agents has revolutionized the management of erectile dysfunction in diabetic men although for the nonresponder or in whom it is contraindicated, there are many other successful alternative treatment options that may be considered.
Semiconductive Polymer Blends: Correlating Structure with Transport Properties at the Nanoscale (Adv. Mater. 2004, 16, 385.)
Authors: Ionescu‐Zanetti C. , Mechler A. , Carter S. A. , Lal R. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractTo view the original paper click http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/adma.200305747
Methylomics in psychiatry: Modulation of gene–environment interactions may be through DNA methylation
Authors: Abdolmaleky Hamid Mostafavi , Smith Cassandra L. , Faraone Stephen V. , Shafa Rahim , Stone William , Glatt Stephen J. , Tsuang Ming T. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractFine‐tuning of neuronal connections during development is regulated through environmental interactions. Some fine‐tuning occurs through changes in gene expression and/or epigenetic gene‐specific DNA methylation states. DNA methylation occurs by transfer of a methyl group from S‐adenosyl methionine to cytosine residues in the dinucleotide sequence CpG. Although CpG sequences spread throughout the genome are usually heavily methylated, those occurring in CpG islands in the promoter regions of genes are less methylated. In most cases, the extent of DNA methylation correlates with the extent of gene inactivation. Other known epigenetic mechanisms include histone deacetylation and chromatin remodeling, RNA inhibition, RNA modification, and DNA rearrangement. Exposure memory expressed as epigenetic DNA modifications allows genomic plasticity and short‐term adaptation of each generation to their environment. Environmental factors that affect DNA methylation include diet, proteins, drugs, and hormones. Induced methylation changes may produce altered gene response upon subsequent hormonal stimulation. The gene‐specific DNA methylation state may be preserved upon transmission through mitosis and meiosis. An increasing amount of data implicates a role for DNA methylation in multi‐factorial psychiatric disorders. For example, l‐methionine treatment can exacerbate psychosis; while valproate, a drug producing hypomethylated DNA, reduces such symptoms. Hypermethylation of the promoter region of the RELN gene correlates with reduced gene expression. This gene's protein Reelin, which is necessary for neuronal migration and synaptogenesis, is reduced in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, suggesting hypermethylation of the promoter region in these disorders. Some evidence implicates methylation of the promoter regions of the DRD2 and HTR2A genes in schizophrenia and mood disorders as well. DNA methylation usually increases with age, although hypomethylation of the promoter region of the amyloid A4 precursor gene during aging may play a role in Alzheimer's disease. More studies are needed to define the role of methylomics and other epigenetic phenomena in the nervous system. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dental microwear in anubis and hybrid baboons (Papio hamadryas, sensu lato) living in Awash National Park, Ethiopia
Authors: Nystrom Pia , Phillips‐Conroy Jane E. , Jolly Clifford J. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractWe describe dental microwear in baboons (Papio hamadryas sensu lato) from the anubis‐hamadryas hybrid zone of Awash National Park, Ethiopia, outline its variation with sex and age, and attempt to relate the observed microwear pattern to environment and diet. Casts of the maxillary second molar of 52 adult and subadult individuals of both sexes were examined with a scanning electron microscope at ×500. Digitized micrographs were taken at a consistent location on facet 9, and microwear was recorded with an image analysis software package. Univariate and multivariate statistics were used to investigate the shape, size, and density of microwear features. The overall pattern of microwear exhibits an unusual combination of high feature density, with numerous small pits and relatively wide striations, and a high correlation between width of pits and striations across individuals. We interpret this pattern as predominantly the consequence of abrasion by relatively small‐caliber environmental grit when accidentally ingested with tough foods such as dried seeds and fruits, as expected in a terrestrial omnivore living in a dusty habitat. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between groups defined by sex, age, or troop membership, a result consistent with qualitative observations of feeding habits in this population, and which lends no support to the hypothesis that the longer jaws of adult males should result in longer striations. A trend towards greater feature density in females, however, might be due to limited sexual dinichism, and merits further investigation. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Different preparative modes for the incorporation of additives in NR/SBR blends
Authors: Visconte Leila L. Y. , Martins Agnes F. , Suarez João C. M. , Nunes Regina C. R. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractRubber goods usually require a combination of properties that cannot be provided by one elastomer only and then two or more polymer components have to be mixed to meet specific requirements. In such cases, the additives normally employed in rubber formulations are unevenly distributed, depending on the affinity of each compound to each polymeric phase. Thus, the dispersion of each one of these ingredients in the different rubbers will influence the rate and degree of vulcanization and, in consequence, the performance of the final composite. In this work, natural rubber (NR) and styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) were mixed in a 1 : 1 ratio. The compositions were obtained according to ASTM D 3182, by using four different preparative modes for the incorporation of the additives. After vulcanization, morphological, and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, tensile strength, hardness, and tear resistance of each composition were investigated. The results show that the best properties were found when the NR/SBR mixture was prepared in such a way as to favor the vulcanization of the SBR phase while preserving the NR phase from excessive vulcanization. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 483–489, 2004
Number and size of motor units in thenar muscles
Authors: Neto Humberto Santo , Filho José Meciano , Passini Renato , Marques Maria Julia 
Published: April 2004

AbstractThe number and size of motor units (MUs) in the thenar muscles of 10 fresh adult cadavers (33–74 years old) were estimated by histological methods. The average number of MUs was 161 ± 26 and the MU size was 93 ± 11.5. Adductor pollicis showed a significantly greater MU size. The number of MUs in our histological study was in agreement with the number reported in previous studies using multiple point stimulation, the method currently used in the clinical investigation of neuromuscular disorders. Clin. Anat. 17:308–311, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved dissection efficiency in the human gross anatomy laboratory by the integration of computers and modern technology
Authors: Reeves Rustin E. , Aschenbrenner John E. , Wordinger Robert J. , Roque Rouel S. , Sheedlo Harold J. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractThe need to increase the efficiency of dissection in the gross anatomy laboratory has been the driving force behind the technologic changes we have recently implemented. With the introduction of an integrated systems‐based medical curriculum and a reduction in laboratory teaching hours, anatomy faculty at the University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC) developed a computer‐based dissection manual to adjust to these curricular changes and time constraints. At each cadaver workstation, Apple iMac computers were added and a new dissection manual, running in a browser‐based format, was installed. Within the text of the manual, anatomical structures required for dissection were linked to digital images from prosected materials; in addition, for each body system, the dissection manual included images from cross sections, radiographs, CT scans, and histology. Although we have placed a high priority on computerization of the anatomy laboratory, we remain strong advocates of the importance of cadaver dissection. It is our belief that the utilization of computers for dissection is a natural evolution of technology and fosters creative teaching strategies adapted for anatomy laboratories in the 21st century. Our strategy has significantly enhanced the independence and proficiency of our students, the efficiency of their dissection time, and the quality of laboratory instruction by the faculty. Clin. Anat. 17:337–344, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cardiac profiles of liposomal anthracyclines
Authors: Theodoulou Maria , Hudis Clifford 
Published: April 2004

AbstractAlthough conventional doxorubicin is associated with favorable clinical outcomes in patients with a variety of tumor types, it long has been associated with the risk of development of cardiotoxicity. Therefore, researchers have focused their efforts on the development of new formulations to improve efficacy while minimizing associated toxicities. The most successful strategy reported to date has been liposomal encapsulation, which alters the pharmacokinetics of the drug, with the goal of maintaining efficacy and improving the therapeutic index. The cardiac profiles of three liposomal anthracyclines, liposomal daunorubicin, nonpegylated liposomal doxorubicin, and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin, were reviewed. More studies will be needed to determine the cardiac safety of liposomal daunorubicin. Although nonpegylated liposomal doxorubicin demonstrated more favorable cardiac safety compared with conventional doxorubicin, its cardiac safety appeared to be mitigated when high bolus doses were administered. Of the liposomal formulations, the strongest evidence of cardiac safety was observed with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin. Compared with conventional doxorubicin, pegylated liposomal doxorubicin was associated with a significantly lower risk of development of cardiac events (P < 0.001). Moreover, the risk of cardiotoxicity was not increased in patients who were treated with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin at cumulative doses > 450 mg/m2 or in patients at increased risk for cardiotoxicity, such as those with prior adjuvant doxorubicin use. Liposomal doxorubicin formulations provided a favorable advantage over conventional doxorubicin in terms of cardiac safety. Recent evidence also suggests that the improved cardiac safety of liposomal doxorubicin formulations is reflected by their successful use in combination with trastuzumab and other chemotherapy agents. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
High‐dose thiotepa and etoposide in children with poor‐prognosis brain tumors
Authors: Fagioli Franca , Biasin Eleonora , Mastrodicasa Luana , Sandri Alessandro , Ferrero Ivana , Berger Massimo , Vassallo Elena , Madon Enrico 
Published: April 2004

AbstractBACKGROUNDOutcome data were analyzed for 27 patients who were affected with recurrent or newly diagnosed high‐risk brain tumors and who underwent high‐dose chemotherapy with triethylenethiophosphoramide (thiotepa) and etoposide in addition to autologous stem cell transplantation between May 1992 and September 2002.METHODSFifteen males and 12 females (median age, 11 years) were included in the study. Twelve patients had newly diagnosed high‐risk brain tumors, and 15 patients had recurrent brain tumors. The conditioning regimen consisted of thiotepa 900 mg/m2 and etoposide 1500 mg/m2 over 3 days starting on Day −5. Stem cell rescue was performed using bone marrow (BM) in 8 patients, peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) in 18 patients, and BM and PBSCs in 1 patient.RESULTSFor the BM group, neutrophil (PMN) engraftment was achieved on Day +14 (median value), whereas platelet (PLT) engraftment was achieved on Day +68 (median value). One patient did not achieve PLT engraftment. For the PBSC group, the PMN engraftment was achieved on Day +10.0 (median value), and the PLT engraftment was achieved on Day +15.5 (median value). Transplantation‐related toxicity (evaluated using the Bearman score) included Grade 2–3 mucositis in 16 patients, Grade 1 kidney toxicity in 6 patients, Grade 1 liver toxicity in 6 patients, and Grade 2 liver toxicity in 1 patient. Transplantation‐related mortality was observed in 1 patient (3.6%), who died of Candida pneumonia. The 3‐year overall survival (OS) rate was 44.6%, and the 3‐year event‐free survival (EFS) rate was 31%. There was a statistically significant difference in OS and EFS rates for patients who underwent ASCT and achieved complete remission compared with patients who had measurable disease.CONCLUSIONSThe results of the current study suggest that high‐dose chemotherapy followed by ASCT may be beneficial for patients who achieve complete remission before ASCT, whereas for other patients, new strategies are required. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.