bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A synthetic peptide corresponding to a region of the human pericentriolar material 1 (PCM‐1) protein binds β‐amyloid (Aβ1‐42) oligomers
Authors: Chakravarthy Balu , Ménard Michel , Brown Leslie , Hewitt Melissa , Atkinson Trevor , Whitfield James 
Published: February 2013

AbstractWe have recently reported that a ~19‐kDa polypeptide, rPK‐4, is a protein kinase Cs inhibitor that is 89% homologous to the 1171–1323 amino acid region of the 228‐kDa human pericentriolar material‐1 (PCM‐1) protein (Chakravarthy et al. 2012). We have now discovered that rPK‐4 binds oligomeric amyloid‐β peptide (Aβ)1‐42 with high affinity. Most importantly, a PCM‐1‐selective antibody co‐precipitated Aβ and amyloid β precursor protein (AβPP) from cerebral cortices and hippocampi from AD (Alzheimer's disease) transgenic mice that produce human AβPP and Aβ1‐42, suggesting that PCM‐1 may interact with amyloid precursor protein/Aβ in vivo. We have identified rPK‐4′s Aβ‐binding domain using a set of overlapping synthetic peptides. We have found with ELISA, dot‐blot, and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis techniques that a ~ 5 kDa synthetic peptide, amyloid binding peptide (ABP)‐p4‐5 binds Aβ1‐42 at nM levels. Most importantly, ABP‐p4‐5, like rPK‐4, appears to preferentially bind Aβ1‐42 oligomers, believed to be the toxic AD‐drivers. As expected from these observations, ABP‐p4‐5 prevented Aβ1‐42 from killing human SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells via apoptosis. These findings indicate that ABP‐p4‐5 is a possible candidate therapeutic for AD.
Self‐management programmes for people living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a call for a reconceptualisation
Authors: Jonsdottir Helga 
Published: February 2013

Aims and objectivesTo synthesise findings from previously published studies on the effectiveness of self‐management programmes for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.BackgroundSelf‐management is a widely valued concept to address contemporary issues of chronic health problems. Yet, findings of self‐management programmes for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are indecisive.DesignLiterature review of (1) previously published systematic reviews and (2) an integrative literature review.MethodSynthesis of findings from previously published systematic reviews (n = 4) of the effectiveness of self‐management programmes for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and an integrated review that was performed on papers published between January 2007–June 2012 (n = 9).ResultsFindings demonstrate that there are few studies on the effectiveness of self‐management programmes on people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease despite more than a decade of research activities. Outcomes of the studies reveal some increase in health‐related quality of life and reduction in use of healthcare resources. The methodological approaches vary, and the sample size is primarily small. Families are not acknowledged. Features of patient‐centredness exist in self‐management programmes, particularly in the more recent articles.ConclusionsThe effectiveness of self‐management programmes for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease remains indecisive.Relevance to clinical practiceA reconceptualisation of self‐management programmes is called for with attention to a family‐centred, holistic and relational care focusing on living with and minimising the handicapping consequences of the health problems in their entirety.
Residual sleepiness in sleep apnea patients treated by continuous positive airway pressure
Authors: Gasa Merce , Tamisier Renaud , Launois Sandrine H. , Sapene Marc , Martin Francis , Stach Bruno , Grillet Yves , Levy Patrick , Pepin Jean‐Louis 
Published: February 2013

SummaryHypoxic brain damage might explain persistent sleepiness in some continuous positive airway pressure‐compliant obstructive sleep apnea called residual excessive sleepiness. Although continuous positive airway pressure may not be fully efficient in treating this symptom, wake‐promoting drug prescription in residual excessive sleepiness is no longer allowed by the European Medicines Agency. The aim of this study is to describe residual excessive sleepiness phenotypes in a large prospective sample of patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Residual excessive sleepiness was defined by an Epworth Sleepiness Scale score ≥ 11. Eligible patients from the French National Sleep Registry attending follow‐up continuous positive airway pressure visits numbered 1047. Patients using continuous positive airway pressure < 3 h (n = 275), with residual apnea–hypopnea index > 15 h−1 (n = 31) or with major depression were excluded (n = 150). Residual excessive sleepiness prevalence in continuous positive airway pressure‐treated obstructive sleep apnea was 13% (18% for those with an initial Epworth Sleepiness Scale score > 11), and significantly decreased with continuous positive airway pressure use (9% in ≥ 6 h night−1 continuous positive airway pressure users, P < 0.005). At the time of diagnosis, patients with residual excessive sleepiness had worse subjective appreciation of their disease (general health scale, Epworth Sleepiness Scale and fatigue score), and complained more frequently of continuous positive airway pressure side‐effects. Residual excessive sleepiness prevalence was lower in severe obstructive sleep apnea than in moderate obstructive sleep apnea (11% when AHI > 30 h−1 versus 18% when AHI 15–30, P < 0.005). There was no relationship between residual excessive sleepiness and body mass index, cardiovascular co‐morbidities or diabetes. Continuous positive airway pressure improved symptoms in the whole population, but to a lower extent in patients with residual excessive sleepiness (fatigue scale: −5.2 versus −2.7 in residual excessive sleepiness− and residual excessive sleepiness+ patients, respectively, P < 0.001). Residual excessive sleepiness prevalence decreased with continuous positive airway pressure compliance. Hypoxic insult is unlikely to explain residual excessive sleepiness as obstructive sleep apnea severity does not seem to be critical. Residual symptoms are not limited to sleepiness, suggesting a true ‘continuous positive airway pressure‐resistant syndrome’, which may justify treatment by wake‐promoting drugs.
An evaluation of lipid extraction techniques for interpretation of carbon and nitrogen isotope values in bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) skin tissue
Authors: Wilson Rachel Marie , Chanton Jeffrey P. , Balmer Brian C. , Nowacek Douglas P. 
Published: February 2013

AbstractWe studied the effects of two common chemical extraction techniques on bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) skin tissues with the intent to develop a mathematical lipid correction for dolphin skin δ13C. One method employs a hot solvent mixture (chloroform and methanol) while the other method requires washing the samples with cold solvent followed by water. The water wash method resulted in significant alteration of tissue δ15N. We found no correlation between change in sample mass and C/N or between change in sample mass and the change in δ13C (Δδ13C) following lipid extraction. Although Δδ13C was positive following lipid extraction (mean = 1.6‰ and 1.2‰, for the two methods), there was no correlation between C/N and Δδ13C for either method. Cumulatively, these results prevented us from applying a mathematical lipid normalization. Based on our findings and consideration of previously reported results, we suggest that applying these extraction techniques to dolphin skin with C/N < 4.5 introduces greater uncertainty than is warranted. We recommend against lipid correction for dolphin skins with C/N < 4.5, but stress that the resulting uncertainty in δ13C needs to be accounted for when implementing isotope mixing models to assess diet or organic matter sources.
Trends in Tinea Capitis in an Irish Pediatric Population and a Comparison of Scalp Brushings Versus Scalp Scrapings as Methods of Investigation
Authors: Nasir Shaaira , Ralph Nicola , O'Neill Charles , Cunney Robert , Lenane Patricia , O'Donnell Brigid 
Published: February 2013

AbstractA retrospective study of 391 children with suspected tinea capitis was analyzed to examine the prevalence of dermatophyte species and to compare the efficacy of the scalp scraping method with that of the hairbrush method for diagnoses over a 6‐year period. Trichophyton tonsurans tinea capitis is the most common pathogen. The hairbrush method of obtaining specimens for fungal culture was superior to scalp scrapings (p = 0.03) in making the diagnosis, and using two methods (p < 0.001) increased the yield of identifying a dermatophyte infection.
Characterization and host range of five tumorigenic Agrobacterium tumefaciens strains and possible application in plant transient transformation assays
Authors: Hwang H.‐H. , Wu E. T. , Liu S.‐Y. , Chang S.‐C. , Tzeng K.‐C. , Kado C. I. 
Published: February 2013

Agrobacterium tumefaciens is a Gram‐negative bacterium. It causes plants to produce crown gall disease because of the transfer, integration and expression of oncogenes encoded by the T‐DNA (transferred DNA) region of the tumour‐inducing (Ti) plasmid. A set of transferred genes directs the production of bacterial nutrients, called opines, formed by condensation of an amino acid and a keto acid or a sugar. Transformed cells synthesize and secrete substantial quantities of particular opines, which A. tumefaciens then uses as a carbon and sometimes nitrogen source. Agrobacterium tumefaciens strains are usually classified on the basis of the opines they can catabolize. Because of the ability to transfer DNA between different kingdoms, A. tumefaciens is also frequently used to generate transgenic plants. This study analyses five poorly characterized wildtype Agrobacterium strains, 1D1108, 1D1460, 1D132, 1D1478 and 1D1487, isolated from Euonymus, cane, cherry, Salix and apple, respectively. Partial Ti‐plasmid sequence analysis demonstrated that the five strains harbour the nopaline‐type Ti plasmid. Tumorigenesis and transient transformation assays of the five analysed and six wildtype A. tumefaciens strains were performed with selected plant species, including two or three species of Brassicaceae, Asteraceae, Solanaceae, Apiaceae and Leguminosae. The A. tumefaciens strains 1D1108, 1D1460 and 1D1478 showed higher transformation efficiencies than the previously characterized A. tumefaciens strains with several economically important crops. These data suggest the potential use of these newly characterized wildtype A. tumefaciens strains in transient transformation assays with certain plant species.
The Decoupling of Social Policy Reforms in Romania
Authors: Pop Luana 
Published: February 2013

AbstractSocial reforms in Romania have been, from the beginning of the 1990s and throughout the EU post‐accession phase, the battlefield for many domestic and international actors. The article identifies, from an historical institutionalist perspective, the international actors who decisively influenced reforms of social protection in Romania during the transition, with a special emphasis on the EU pre‐ and post‐accession stages. Further, the article attempts to understand the impact of the various external influences on the sustainability and effectiveness of domestic reforms, by assessing the convergence, or the decoupling, between the rationales – i.e. ideologies and values – that explicitly grounded social reforms in Romania and the domestic public rhetoric on social risks and values. Answers to these questions can provide important insights in regard to both the impact of the EU upon new member states and the challenges of EU enlargement for the EU and its core member states.
Biological behaviour of canine mandibular osteosarcoma. A retrospective study of 50 cases (1999–2007)
Authors: Coyle V. J. , Rassnick K. M. , Borst L. B. , Rodriguez C. O. , Northrup N. C. , Fan T. M. , Garrett L. D. 
Published: February 2013

AbstractThe purpose of this retrospective study was to describe the biological behaviour of canine mandibular osteosarcoma (OSA) and to examine factors for their impact on metastasis‐free interval (MFI) and survival time (ST). Records from dogs treated with mandibulectomy forOSA(1999–2007) were reviewed. Archived tumour samples were evaluated for mitotic index (MI) and tumour grade. Fifty dogs were included, 21 received chemotherapy. Twenty‐nine dogs (58%) developed metastatic disease. The medianMFIwas 627 days, and medianSTwas 525 days. In univariate analysisMI> 40 was prognostic for decreasedMFIandST. Grade also influencedMFIandST, with 5/21 (24%) dogs with gradeII/IIItumours metastasis‐free at one year versus 16/22 (72%) dogs with grade I tumours (P= 0.002); and 5/21 (24%) dogs with gradeII/IIItumours alive versus 17/22 (77%) dogs with grade I tumours (P= 0.001). In multivariate analysis, histological grade and adjuvant chemotherapy were prognostic forMFIandST.
The impacts of traditional and novel herbicide application methods on target plants, non‐target plants and production in intensive grasslands
Authors: Power E F , Kelly D L , Stout J C 
Published: February 2013

SummaryHerbicides contribute significantly to agricultural intensification, but some negatively impact non‐target organisms. Much research has focused on reducing herbicide use through technological improvements in application and herbicide selectivity, but impacts on non‐target organisms are less well understood. Using experimental plots in silage systems, we investigated impacts of herbicides (both narrow spectrum targeting broad‐leaved plants and selective and non‐selective broad spectrum) applied using traditional techniques (blanket‐ and manual spot‐spraying) and a novel application technique (automated spot‐spraying) on non‐target plant richness/diversity, target weed presence (Rumex species) and production (DM yield). All herbicides reduced non‐target plant richness/diversity and sometimes target weeds (when applied using traditional methods). Automated spot‐spraying had fewer negative effects on non‐target organisms, but did not reduce target weeds. No differences in production levels among treatments were observed. The automated spot‐spraying technique requires further research and development. Our results indicate that 20–30% weed cover does not significantly alter production and so, as herbicides are expensive, their effects on non‐target organisms and the environment can be more significant than their benefits to production. We advocate more research into the relationships between weed infestation and production in grasslands, so that the propensity to overuse herbicides is reduced.
Complete Genome Sequences of New Emerging Newcastle Disease Virus Strains Isolated from China
Authors: Liu Hualei , Lv Yan , Afonso Claudio L. , Ge Shengqiang , Zheng Dongxia , Zhao Yunling , Wang Zhiliang 
Published: February 2013

ABSTRACT
Five Newcastle disease virus strains isolated from geese were classified into a new genotype, designated genotype XII. The complete genome sequences of two strains indicated that these viruses were distinct from viruses of genotype VII. More investigations need to be conducted for us to understand the origin of these new strains.
Draft Genome of Spiribacter salinus M19-40, an Abundant Gammaproteobacterium in Aquatic Hypersaline Environments
Authors: Leon Maria Jose , Ghai Rohit , Fernandez Ana Beatriz , Sanchez-Porro Cristina , Rodriguez-Valera Francisco , Ventosa Antonio 
Published: February 2013

ABSTRACT

We have previously used a
de novo
metagenomic assembly approach to describe the presence of an abundant gammaproteobacterium comprising nearly 15% of the microbial community in an intermediate salinity solar saltern pond. We have obtained this microbe in pure culture and describe the genome sequencing of the halophilic photoheterotrophic microbe,
Spiribacter salinus
M19-40.
The effect of integrated cardiac rehabilitation versus treatment as usual for atrial fibrillation patients treated with ablation: the randomised CopenHeartRFAtrial protocol
Authors: Risom Signe Stelling , Zwisler Ann-Dorth Olsen , Rasmussen Trine Bernholdt , Sibilitz Kirstine Lærum , Svendsen Jesper Hastrup , Gluud Christian , Hansen Jane Lindschou , Winkel Per , Thygesen Lau Caspar , Perhonen Merja , Hansen Jim , Dunbar Sandra B , Berg Selina Kikkenborg 
Published: February 2013

IntroductionAtrial fibrillation affects almost 2% of the population in the Western world. To preserve sinus rhythm, ablation is undertaken in symptomatic patients. Observational studies show that patients with atrial fibrillation often report a low quality of life and are less prone to be physically active due to fear of triggering fibrillation. Small trials indicate that exercise training has a positive effect on exercise capacity and mental health, and both patients with recurrent atrial fibrillation and in sinus rhythm may benefit from rehabilitation in managing life after ablation. No randomised trials have been published on cardiac rehabilitation for atrial fibrillation patients treated with ablation that includes exercise and psychoeducational components.AimTo test the effects of an integrated cardiac rehabilitation programme versus treatment as usual for patients with atrial fibrillation treated with ablation.Methods and analysis designThe trial is a multicentre parallel arm design with 1:1 randomisation to the intervention and control group with blinded outcome assessment. 210 patients treated for atrial fibrillation with radiofrequency ablation will be included. The intervention consists of a rehabilitation programme including four psychoeducative consultations with a specially trained nurse and 12 weeks of individualised exercise training, plus the standard medical follow-up. Patients in the control group will receive the standard medical follow-up. The primary outcome measure is exercise capacity measured by the VO2peak. The secondary outcome measure is self-rated mental health measured by the Short Form 36 questionnaire. Postintervention, qualitative interviews will be conducted in 10% of the intervention group.Ethics and disseminationThe protocol is approved by the regional research ethics committee (number H-1-2011-135), the Danish Data Protection Agency (reg. nr. 2007-58-0015) and follows the latest version of the Declaration of Helsinki. The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and may possibly impact on rehabilitation guidelines.Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov identifier:NCT01523145.
The eye of the beholder: inter-rater agreement among experts on psychogenic jerky movement disorders
Authors: van der Salm Sandra M A , de Haan Rob J , Cath Daniëlle C , van Rootselaar Anne-Fleur , Tijssen Marina A J 
Published: February 2013

ObjectiveThe current criteria for conversion disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders rely on the assumption that neurological disorders can be distinguished from conversion disorders through clinical assessment. This study aims to assess inter-rater agreement among clinicians with experience in the diagnosis of various hyperkinetic jerky movements, including psychogenic jerks.Methods60 patients with psychogenic jerks, myoclonus or tics were rated by international experts using a standardised survey resembling daily clinical practice. The survey included the following diagnostic steps: a short video offering a visual impression of the patients and their jerky movements, medical history, neurological examination (on video), additional investigations and the findings of a standardised psychiatric interview. The diagnosis and diagnostic certainty were scored after each step.ResultsAfter all clinical information was given, moderate inter-rater agreement was reached (κ=0.56±0.1) with absolute agreement (100%) of experts on the diagnosis in 12 (20%) patients and reasonable agreement (>75%) in 43 (72%) patients. Psychiatric evaluation did not contribute to inter-rater agreement or diagnostic certainty.ConclusionsOur findings illustrate the fact that experienced movement disorder specialists moderately agree on the clinical diagnosis of jerky movements. Clinical assessment, especially by a team of clinicians in challenging individual cases, might improve diagnostic agreement.
Small intestinal adenocarcinoma: rarely considered, often missed?
Authors: Neely David , Ong Justin , Patterson James , Kirkpatrick Dianne , Skelly Roderick 
Published: February 2013

Abstract
Adenocarcinoma of the small intestine is rare in comparison with other gastrointestinal malignancies but its incidence is rising. It often presents at an advanced stage due to the non-specific symptomatology. More recent advances in small intestinal visualisation including video capsule endoscopy and double balloon enteroscopy may facilitate diagnosis in patients with suspected small intestinal neoplasia. At present aggressive surgical resection provides the best chance of cure of small intestinal adenocarcinoma. Despite apparent curative resection the long-term outlook remains poor. The role of adjuvant chemotherapy is not well defined due to the rarity of the disease and lack of randomised controlled trials; however, there appears to be a survival benefit in advanced disease with the use of oxaliplatin and 5-fluorouracil. We reviewed the clinical aspects of this aggressive condition focusing on the pathological associations, available diagnostic modalities and current management options. Three cases are included to illustrate the review.
Republished: Drug-induced valvular heart disease
Authors: Cosyns Bernard , Droogmans Steven , Rosenhek Raphael , Lancellotti Patrizio 
Published: February 2013

Abstract
Drug-induced valvular heart disease (DIVHD) was first described in the 1960s. Initially, associations with ergot derivatives used for migraine prevention, or with anorectic drugs, were described. Drugs used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and endocrine diseases, like hyperprolactinemia, may also induce VHD. More recently, the use of 3,4-methylendioxymetamphetamine (MDMA, ‘Ecstasy’) and benfluorexhave been found to be associated with DIVHD. Although some of these drugs were withdrawn from the market, several cases of patients requiring valve surgery even years after the cessation of therapy have been reported. DIVHD is not infrequent, may be severe, and has been described in association with several drugs. Even after drug cessation, long-term implications of this type of VHD may persist. The present review underlines the need for a careful evaluation of the associated clinical and echocardiographic risk factors to allow early recognition so as not to delay appropriate management.