bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Double-antiangiogenic protein DAAP targeting vascular endothelial growth factor A and angiopoietins attenuates collagen-induced arthritis
Authors: Hah Young-Sool , Koh Young Jun , Lim Hye Song , Kim Hyun-Ok , Cheon Yun-Hong , Noh Hae Sook , Jang Kyu Yun , Lee Sang Yong , Lee Gyun Min , Koh Gou Young , Lee Sang-Il 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Introduction
Angiogenesis plays a critical role in synovial inflammation and joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) and angiopoietins are two important mediators of synovial angiogenesis. We have previously developed a novel chimeric decoy receptor, namely, double-antiangiogenic protein (DAAP), which can both bind VEGF-A and angiopoietins and block their actions. This study was performed to evaluate the antiarthritic effect of DAAP and the combination effect with the tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) inhibitor in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA).

Methods
Recombinant DAAP, VEGF-Trap, Tie2-Fc and dimeric Fc proteins were produced and purified from CHO cells in large-scale bioreactors. CIA was induced in DBA/1 mice with type II collagen. The preventive effect of DAAP was determined and compared with other decoy receptors such as VEGF-Trap or Tie2-Fc, which block VEGF-A or angiopoietins, respectively. The clinical, radiographic, pathologic and immunohistochemical analyses were performed in CIA mice. The levels of matrix metalloprotease 3 (MMP-3) and interleukin 1β (IL-1β) were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) mRNA levels were measured by polymerase chain reaction. Finally, we investigated the combination effects of DAAP with a low dose of TNF-α decoy receptor (etanercept 10 mg/kg).

Results
On the basis of clinical and radiographic evaluation, DAAP had a much greater inhibitory effect than VEGF-Trap or Tie2-Fc on arthritis severity and bone destruction. These inhibitory effects were accompanied by significantly diminishing pathologic abnormalities, CD31-positive vasculature and synovial infiltration by F4/80-positive macrophages. The levels of MMP-3, IL-1β and RANKL were much lower in the DAAP-injected group than those of the control. Furthermore, DAAP showed a therapeutic effect and a combination effect with etanercept when injected after arthritis onset in established CIA.

Conclusions
DAAP has not only potent prophylactic effects on both inflammation and bone destruction but also therapeutic effects, alone and in combination with a TNF-α inhibitor in CIA mice. These results suggest that DAAP could be used as an effective new therapeutic agent for RA.
Serological identification of fast progressors of structural damage with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Siebuhr Anne Sofie , Bay-Jensen Anne C , Leeming Diana J , Plat Adam , Byrjalsen Inger , Christiansen Claus , van de Heijde Désirée , Karsdal Morten A 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Introduction
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with structural progression are in most need of immediate treatment to maintain tissue integrity. The serum protein fingerprint, type I collagen degradation mediated by matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-cleavage (C1M), is a biomarker of tissue destruction. We investigated whether baseline serum C1M levels could identify structural progressors and if the biomarker levels changed during anti-inflammatory treatment with tocilizumab (TCZ).

Methods
The LITHE-biomarker study (NCT00106535, n = 585) was a one-year phase III, double-blind, placebo (PBO)-controlled, parallel group study of TCZ 4 or 8 mg/kg every four weeks, in RA patients on stable doses of methotrexate (MTX). Spearman's ranked correlation was used to assess the correlation between baseline C1M levels and structural progression at baseline and at weeks 24 and 52. Multivariate regression was performed for delta structural progression. Change in C1M levels were studied as a function of time and treatment.

Results
At baseline, C1M was significantly correlated to C-reactive protein (P <0.0001), visual analog scale pain (P <0.0001), disease activity score28-erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR) (P <0.0001), joint space narrowing (JSN) (P = 0.0056) and modified total Sharp score (mTSS) (P = 0.0006). Baseline C1M was significantly correlated with delta-JSN at Week 24 (R2 = 0.09, P = 0.0001) and at Week 52 (R2 = 0.27, P <0.0001), and with delta-mTSS at 24 weeks (R2 = 0.006, P = 0.0015) and strongly at 52 weeks (R2 = 0.013, P <0.0001) in the PBO group. C1M levels were dose-dependently reduced in the TCZ + MTX group.

Conclusions
Baseline C1M levels correlated with worsening joint structure over one year. Serum C1M levels may enable identification of those RA patients that are in most need of aggressive treatment

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00106535
Ischemic arterial events and atherosclerosis in patients with systemic sclerosis: a population-based case-control study
Authors: Nordin Annica , Jensen-Urstad Kerstin , Björnådal Lena , Pettersson Susanne , Larsson Anders , Svenungsson Elisabet 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Introduction
While microvascular disease is well described in systemic sclerosis (SSc), it is still unclear whether the occurrence of ischemic macrovascular events and atherosclerosis is enhanced among patients with SSc.

Methods
In this study, 111 SSc patients (74% of prevalent cases in Stockholm County) and 105 age- and sex-comparable population controls were investigated. Previous ischemic arterial events were tabulated. As surrogate measures of atherosclerosis, plaque occurrence and intima-media thickness (IMT) were determined with carotid ultrasound and the ankle-brachial index (ABI) was calculated. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors were recorded and we also measured biomarkers indicating systemic inflammation and endothelial activation/dysfunction.

Results
Mean age was 62 ± 12 years for patients and controls. Ischemic arterial events were more common, due to increased occurrence of ischemic heart disease (IHD) and ischemic peripheral vascular disease (IPVD), in the patient group (12% vs. 4%, P = 0.03 and 9% vs. 0%, P = 0.003 respectively). On a group level, there was no difference regarding the occurrence of ischemic cerebrovascular disease, the frequency of plaques, IMT or ABI between SSc patients and controls. Subgroup analyses revealed that patients with anticentromere antibodies (ACA+) had more plaques and more ischemic arterial events compared to other SSc patients (67% vs. 39% and 32% vs. 11%; P = 0.006 and P = 0.01, respectively) and compared to controls (67% vs. 41% and 32% vs. 7%, P = 0.02 and P = 0.0003, respectively). Biomarkers of inflammation/endothelial activation were generally increased among SSc patients.

Conclusions
Patients with SSc are at enhanced risk for IHD and IPVD. The ACA+ SSc subgroup was particularly affected with both ischemic arterial events and premature atherosclerosis. The microvascular vulnerability of ACA+ patients is previously well documented. We demonstrate that ACA+ SSc patients have an enhanced risk of macrovascular injury as well. This group should be followed closely and modifiable cardiovascular risk factors should be treated at an early stage.
Bem3, a Cdc42 GTPase-Activating Protein, traffics to an intracellular compartment and recruits the secretory Rab GTPase Sec4 to endomembranes
Authors: Mukherjee Debarati , Sen Arpita , Boettner Douglas R. , Fairn Gregory D. , Schlam Daniel , Bonilla Valentin Fernando J. , McCaffery J. Michael , Hazbun Tony , Staiger Chris J. , Grinstein Sergio , Lemmon Sandra K. , Aguilar R. Claudio 
Published: August 2013

Cell polarity is essential for many cellular functions including cell division and cell-fate determination. Although RhoGTPase signaling and vesicle trafficking are both required for the establishment of cell polarity, the mechanisms by which they are coordinated are unclear. Here, we demonstrate that the yeast RhoGAP (GTPase Activating Protein), Bem3, is targeted to sites of polarized growth by the endocytic and recycling pathways. Specifically, deletion of SLA2 or RCY1 led to mislocalization of Bem3 to depolarized puncta and accumulation in intracellular compartments, respectively. Bem3 partitioned between the plasma membrane and an intracellular membrane-bound compartment. These Bem3-positive structures were polarized towards sites of bud emergence and were mostly observed during the pre-mitotic phase of apical growth. Cell biological and biochemical approaches demonstrated that this intracellular Bem3 compartment contained markers for both the endocytic and secretory pathways, thereby, reminiscent of the Spitzenkörper present in the hyphal tips of growing fungi.Importantly, Bem3 was not a passive cargo, but recruited the secretory Rab protein, Sec4, to Bem3-containing compartments. Moreover, Bem3 deletion resulted in less efficient localization of Sec4 to bud tips during early stages of bud emergence. Surprisingly, these effects of Bem3 on Sec4 were independent of its GAP activity, but rather depended on its ability to efficiently bind endomembranes.This work unveils unsuspected and important details of the relationship between vesicle traffic and elements of the cell polarity machinery: (1) Bem3, a cell polarity and peripherally-associated membrane protein, relies on vesicle trafficking for maintaining its proper localization and (2) in turn, Bem3 influences secretory vesicle trafficking.
Complex modulation of the cold receptor TRPM8 by volatile anaesthetics and its role in complications of general anaesthesia
Authors: Vanden Abeele Fabien , Kondratskyi Artem , Dubois Charlotte , Shapovalov George , Gkika Dimitra , Busserolles Jérôme , Shuba Yaroslav , Skryma Roman , Prevarskaya Natalia 
Published: August 2013

Summary
The mechanisms by which volatile general anaesthetics (VAs) produce a depression of central nervous system are beginning to be better understood, but little is known about a number of side effects. Here, we show that the cold receptor transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8) undergoes a complex modulation by clinical concentrations of VAs in dorsal root ganglion neurons and HEK-293 cells heterologously expressing TRPM8. VAs produced a transient enhancement of TRPM8 through a depolarizing shift of its activation towards physiological membrane potentials, followed by a sustained TRPM8 inhibition. The stimulatory action of VAs engaged molecular determinants distinct from those used by the TRPM8 agonist. Transient TRPM8 activation by VAs could explain side effects such as inhibition of respiratory drive, shivering and the cooling sensation during the beginning of anaesthesia, whereas the second phase of VA action, that associated with sustained TRPM8 inhibition, might be responsible for hypothermia. Consistent with this, both hypothermia and the inhibition of respiratory drive induced by VAs are partially abolished in Trpm8-knockout animals. Thus, we propose TRPM8 as a new clinical target for diminishing common and serious complications of general anaesthesia.
Natural Occurrence of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin (Hyphomycetes: Moniliales) on Anticarsia gemmatalis Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: Rossoni Camila , Kassab Samir Oliveira , Barbosa Rogério Hidalgo , Silva Antonio Souza , Mota Thiago Alexandre , Loureiro Elisângela de Souza 
Published: August 2013

Natural occurrence of an entomopathogenic fungus was reported on Anticarsia gemmatalis Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in an area planted with conventional soybeans located in Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The caterpillar was collected in the field and taken to the microbiology laboratory of the Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados (UFGD) where it remained in a moist chamber for approximately 7 days. Later, the fungus was isolated on culture medium (PDA) for identification of the entomopathogenic species. The fungus was identified as Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin (Hyphomycetes: Moniliales) and this represents the first record of parasitism of this species on the soybean caterpillar in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul.
Ocorrência Natural de Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin (Hyphomycetes: Moniliales) Sobre Anticarsia gemmatalis Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)no Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul
Resumo. Relata-se a ocorrência natural de um fungo entomopatogênico sobre a lagarta Anticarsia gemmatalis Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) em uma área de soja convencional situada no município de Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul. A lagarta foi coletada a campo e levada ao laboratório de microbiologia da Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados (UFGD), onde permaneceu em câmera úmida por aproximadamente 7 dias. Posteriormente, o fungo foi isolado em meio de cultura (BDA) para identificação da espécie do entomopatógeno. O fungo foi identificado como Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin (Hyphomycetes: Moniliales) e, isso representa o primeiro registro de parasitismo, dessa espécie, sobre a lagarta-da-soja no Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul.
New Records of Social Wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae, Polistinae) in Amazonas State, Brazil
Authors: Somavilla Alexandre , De Oliveira Marcio Luiz 
Published: August 2013

In this paper we record the occurrence of Clypearia apicipennis (Spinola, 1851), Leipomeles pusilla (Ducke, 1904), Metapolybia nigra Richards, 1978, Parachartergus richardsi Willink, 1951 and Pseudopolybia langi Bequaert, 1944 in Amazonas State for the first time, including distribution notes.
Novos Registros de Vespas Sociais (Hymenoptera: Vespidae, Polistinae) no Estado do Amazonas, Brasil
Resumo. Nesse trabalho registramos a ocorrência de Clypearia apicipennis (Spinola, 1851), Leipomeles pusilla (Ducke, 1904), Metapolybia nigra Richards, 1978, Parachartergus richardsi Willink, 1951 e Pseudopolybia langi Bequaert, 1944 pela primeira vez no estado do Amazonas e incluímos notas de distribuição.
Criação e Transporte de Ninfas de Ephemeroptera (Insecta) em Campo
Authors: Boldrini Rafael , Cruz Paulo Vilela 
Published: August 2013

Muitas espécies de Ephemeroptera são conhecidas somente em um estágio, normalmente adulto ou ninfa. Nesse estudo é proposto uma metodologia para transporte e criação de ninfas em campo
Rearing and Transport of Mayfly Nymphs in the Field
Abstract. Many species of Ephemeroptera are known in only one phase, adult or nymph. In this study, we propose a methodology for transport and rearing nymphs in the field.
The Economics of Long-Term Care
Authors: Siciliani Luigi 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Long-term care expenditure is expected to rise, driven by an ageing population. Given that public long-term care expenditure is high in many OECD countries, governments are increasingly concerned about its future growth. This study focuses on three relevant issues. First, we discuss factors that affect the growth of long-term expenditure and its projections. These include demographics, the balance in provision between informal and formal care, whether higher life expectancy translates into higher disability, the interrelation between health and long-term care, and whether long-term care suffers from Baumol’s disease. Second, given that a significant proportion of long-term care expenditure is nursing- and care-home expenditure, we discuss the role of government regulation aimed at ensuring that individuals receive appropriate quality of care in such institutions. We focus in particular on price regulation, competition, and the non-profit sector; these have been the subject of considerable empirical work (mainly in the United States). Third, we discuss the relative merits of public and private insurance. Countries differ greatly in their approach. Some countries have nearly exclusively public insurance but in others this is small. We consider the conditions under which public insurance can overcome the limitations of a private insurance market.
Methodological Variations in Guided Imagery Interventions Using Movement Imagery Scripts in Sport: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cooley Sam J. , Williams Sarah E. , Burns Victoria E. , Cumming Jennifer 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Imagery studies have varied widely in the methods used to deliver guided imagery interventions. This variation has led to difficulties comparing studies and uncertainty as to what methods should be followed. A review is needed to evaluate the interventions to date to inform applied recommendations. The aim of this systematic review was to (1) assess the quality of intervention design, (2) investigate the extent to which interventions vary, (3) highlight the different methods that should be considered in the design and implementation of future interventions, and (4) investigate adherence to some of the current theories and models of imagery use. A total of 20 interventions administered between the years 2001 and 2011 were compared over 17 main areas, including imagery ability, duration, script development, delivery method, and adherence to the PETTLEP model and the bio-informational theory. The results of this review found evidence of many inconsistencies between interventions and demonstrate a need for more comprehensive practical guidelines. Recommendations are offered for the design of future interventions, including increasing imagery practice time and the use of personalised imagery scripts. Numerous questions are raised to strengthen and direct future research such as the need for continued modification of scripts throughout an intervention.
Are Intentional Processes with Tool Use Similar for Simulated and Executed Actions?
Authors: Gabbard Carl , Caçola Priscila 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
We asked the question, does motor simulation (via imagery) and planning with execution have similar intentional characteristics? And, does use of a tool compared to arm reaching influence a different intention effect? We instructed participants to use motor imagery to estimate distance reachability with the hand (arm extended) and a 20-cm tool using a NOGO/GO intention paradigm. That is, use of imagery only and imagery with actual execution (IE). Results indicated no differences in accuracy within or between HAND and TOOL conditions. That is, there was no observable intentional effect. These findings lend preliminary support to an increasing body of evidence suggesting that the neurocognitive processes (in this case, intention) driving motor imagery and executed actions are similar for hand and tool use.
The Study of Water Quality of Several Local Sources
Authors: Ábrám Zoltán , Tarcea Monica , Finta Hajnal , Moldovan H , Moldovan Geanina , Nădășan V 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study is to analyze the water quality of several local sources from the Toplița-Deda region, as well as from the Gheorgheni basin, in order to inform the population about the water quality and about the importance of the drinking water control.
Method: Repeated water samples were collected from a total number of 41 sources in the two studied regions during 2010. A multiparametric colorimeter, Hanna Instruments C99 was used to determine certain physical and chemical parameters. A number of current and specific microbiological analyses were also carried out.
Results: The average values and the percentage of the positive samples with values above permitted limits were calculated. The highest accepted levels were based on Law no. 458/2002 regarding drinkable water quality. Among the mineral indicators iron exceeded the limit in 18.18% and water samples were poor in fluoride (83.65%) and in iodine (98.18%). A small percentage of sources (3.63%) indicated pollution, 10.9% had high nitrate level. Analyzing the microbiological content, our water samples were within the drinkability limits required by law.
Conclusion: Our study emphasizes the importance of monitoring water supplies, the awareness of the water quality according to mineral composition, pollution estimation and microbiological characteristics in order to prevent the unexpected influence on the health status of the consumer population.
Accuracy of Ankle-Brachial Index Measurements in Evaluation of Critical Leg Ischemia
Authors: Varga-Fekete Tímea , Felvinczi Katalin , Kun-Bálint Emese , Puskás A , Nagy E , Brassai Z 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Aims: The ankle-brachial index is an efficient tool for objectively documenting the presence of lower extremity peripheral artery disease. However, its applicability for detection of critical leg ischemia is still controversial. We proposed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of the ankle-brachial index for critical ischemia.
Materials and methods: Systolic blood pressure measurements for calculation of the ankle-brachial index were obtained in 90 patients with peripheral artery disease. Ankle-brachial index was computed in 3 different ways (using the lowest ankle pressure, the highest ankle pressure, and the mean of the ankle pressures), sensibility, specificity, positive and negative predictive value and overall accuracy for detecting critical ischemia were determined for each method. A value ≤ 0.4 was taken as cut-off point for critical leg ischemia. Prevalence of coronary and cerebrovascular atherosclerosis and conventional risk factors were also noted.
Results: Using the lowest ankle pressure for computing ankle-brachial index provided higher sensitivity, and lower specificity for detecting critical leg ischemia, using the highest pressure was less sensitive, but more specific, and the mean pressure index gave intermediate results. Overall accuracy was highest for the latest method. The prevalence of generalized atherosclerosis was high in peripheral artery disease, but we found no significant difference between the intermittent claudication and the critical ischemia group.
Conclusion: Ankle-brachial index measurements, regardless of the method used for calculation, cannot identify or rule out reliably critical leg ischemia. Peripheral artery disease confers an increased risk of cardiovascular disease regardless of symptom status or lower extremity perfusion severity.
Analysis of Current Position Determination Accuracy in Natural Resources Canada Precise Point Positioning Service
Authors: Krzan Grzegorz , Dawidowicz Karol , Krzysztof Świa̧tek 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Precise Point Positioning (PPP) is a technique used to determine highprecision position with a single GNSS receiver. Unlike DGPS or RTK, satellite observations conducted by the PPP technique are not differentiated, therefore they require that parameter models should be used in data processing, such as satellite clock and orbit corrections. Apart from explaining the theory of the PPP technique, this paper describes the available web-based online services used in the post-processing of observation results. The results obtained in the post-processing of satellite observations at three points, with different characteristics of environment conditions, using the CSRS-PPP service, will be presented as the results of the experiment. This study examines the effect of the duration of the measurement session on the results and compares the results obtained by working out observations made by the GPS system and the combined observations from GPS and GLONASS. It also presents the analysis of the position determination accuracy using one and two measurement frequencies