bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Entrap and KillBorrelia burgdorferiSensu Stricto Spirochetes and Are Not Affected byIxodes ricinusTick Saliva
Authors: Menten-Dedoyart Catherine , Faccinetto Céline , Golovchenko Maryna , Dupiereux Ingrid , Van Lerberghe Pierre-Bernard , Dubois Sophie , Desmet Christophe , Elmoualij Benaissa , Baron Frédéric , Rudenko Nataliia , Oury Cécile , Heinen Ernst , Couvreur Bernard 
Published: October 2012

AbstractLyme disease is caused by spirochetes of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex. They are transmitted mainly by Ixodes ricinus ticks. After a few hours of infestation, neutrophils massively infiltrate the bite site. They can kill Borrelia via phagocytosis, oxidative burst, and hydrolytic enzymes. However, factors in tick saliva promote propagation of the bacteria in the host even in the presence of a large number of neutrophils. The neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) consists in the extrusion of the neutrophil’s own DNA, forming traps that can retain and kill bacteria. The production of reactive oxygen species is apparently associated with the onset of NETs (NETosis). In this article, we describe NET formation at the tick bite site in vivo in mice. We show that Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto spirochetes become trapped and killed by NETs in humans and that the bacteria do not seem to release significant nucleases to evade this process. Saliva from I. ricinus did not affect NET formation by human neutrophils or its stability. However, it greatly decreased neutrophil reactive oxygen species production, suggesting that a strong decrease of hydrogen peroxide does not affect NET formation. Finally, round bodies trapped in NETs were observed, some of them staining as live bacteria. This observation could help contribute to a better understanding of the early steps of Borrelia invasion and erythema migrans formation after tick bite.
Paneth Cell–Mediated Multiorgan Dysfunction after Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Park Sang Won , Kim Mihwa , Kim Joo Yun , Ham Ahrom , Brown Kevin M. , Mori-Akiyama Yuko , Ouellette André J. , D’Agati Vivette D. , Lee H. Thomas 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is frequently complicated by extrarenal multiorgan injury, including intestinal and hepatic dysfunction. In this study, we hypothesized that a discrete intestinal source of proinflammatory mediators drives multiorgan injury in response to AKI. After induction of AKI in mice by renal ischemia-reperfusion or bilateral nephrectomy, small intestinal Paneth cells increased the synthesis and release of IL-17A in conjunction with severe intestinal apoptosis and inflammation. We also detected significantly increased IL-17A in portal and systemic circulation after AKI. Intestinal macrophages appear to transport released Paneth cell granule constituents induced by AKI, away from the base of the crypts into the liver. Genetic or pharmacologic depletion of Paneth cells decreased small intestinal IL-17A secretion and plasma IL-17A levels significantly and attenuated intestinal, hepatic, and renal injury after AKI. Similarly, portal delivery of IL-17A in macrophage-depleted mice decreased markedly. In addition, intestinal, hepatic, and renal injury following AKI was attenuated without affecting intestinal IL-17A generation. In conclusion, AKI induces IL-17A synthesis and secretion by Paneth cells to initiate intestinal and hepatic injury by hepatic and systemic delivery of IL-17A by macrophages. Modulation of Paneth cell dysregulation may have therapeutic implications by reducing systemic complications arising from AKI.
Absence of CD59 Exacerbates Systemic Autoimmunity in MRL/lpr Mice
Authors: Miwa Takashi , Zhou Lin , Maldonado Michael A. , Madaio Michael P. , Eisenberg Robert A. , Song Wen-Chao 
Published: October 2012

AbstractCD59 is a GPI-anchored membrane regulator of complement expressed on blood cells as well as peripheral tissues. It protects host cells from complement injury by inhibiting formation of the membrane attack complex. Recent studies in mice have suggested also a role of CD59 in T cell immune response that was mechanistically independent of complement. In the present study, we investigated the function of CD59 in the MRL/lpr model of murine lupus. We backcrossed the Cd59a knockout (Cd59a−/−) mouse onto the MRL/lpr background and compared Cd59a+/+-MRL/lpr and Cd59a−/−-MRL/lpr littermates for the development of systemic autoimmunity. We found that CD59a deficiency significantly exacerbated the skin disease and lymphoproliferation characteristic of MRL/lpr mice. It also increased autoantibody titers and caused a higher level of proteinuria in male MRL/lpr mice. Bone marrow transfer experiments indicated that CD59a expression on both bone marrow–derived cells and peripheral tissues played a role in lymphoproliferation, whereas the skin disease phenotype is determined mainly by local CD59a expression. Importantly, C3 gene deletion or C5 neutralization with a blocking mAb in Cd59a−/−-MRL/lpr mice did not rescue the proautoimmune phenotype associated with CD59a deficiency. These results together suggest that CD59a inhibits systemic autoimmunity in MRL/lpr mice through a complement-independent mechanism.
First-Principle Calculations of Half-Metallic Double Perovskite La2BB´O6(B,B´=3d transition metal)
Authors: Liu Y. P. , Chen S. H. , Fuh H. R. , Wang Y. K. 
Published: October 2012

AbstractIn this paper, we present calculations based on density functional theory using generalized gradient approximation (GGA) in double perovskite structure La2BB’O6 (B,B’ = 3d transition metal) out of combinational possibilities. Considering 4 types of magnetic states, namely, ferromagnetic (FM), ferrimagnetic (FiM), antiferromagnetics (AF), and nonmagnetic (NM) with full structure optimization, 13 possible surviving, stable FM/FiM-HM materials containing 6 FM-HM materials (La2ScNiO6, La2CrCoO6, La2CrNiO6, La2VScO6, La2VZnO6, and La2VNiO6) and 7 FiM-HM materials (La2VFeO6, La2ZnCoO6, La2TiCoO6, La2CrZnO6, La2CrMnO6, La2ScFeO6, and La2TiMnO6) are found. Considering the correlation effect (GGA+U), there are 6 possible half-metallic stable, surviving (HM) materials containing 3 FMHM materials (La2ScNiO6, La2CrCoO6, and La2CrNiO6) and 3 FiM-HM materials (La2VFeO6, La2ZnCoO6, and La2TiCoO6).
Development of the Comprehensive Observations of Proprioception (COP): Validity, Reliability, and Factor Analysis
Authors: Blanche Erna Imperatore , Bodison Stefanie , Chang Megan C. , Reinoso Gustavo 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
OBJECTIVE. We developed an observational tool, the Comprehensive Observations of Proprioception (COP), for identifying proprioceptive processing issues in children with developmental disabilities.
METHOD. Development of the COP underwent three phases. First, we developed items representing proprioceptive functions on the basis of an extensive literature review and consultation with occupational therapists. We then established interrater reliability and content, construct, and criterion validity. Finally, we completed a factor analysis of COP ratings of 130 children with known developmental disabilities.
RESULTS. Adequate validity and reliability were established. Factor analysis revealed a four-factor model that explained the underlying structure of the measure as it was hypothesized.
CONCLUSION. The COP is a valid criterion-referenced short observational tool that structures the clinician’s observations by linking a child’s behaviors to areas identified in the literature as relevant to proprioceptive processing. It takes 15 min to administer and can be used in a variety of contexts, such as the home, clinic, and school.
Effect of Pencil Grasp on the Speed and Legibility of Handwriting in Children
Authors: Schwellnus Heidi , Carnahan Heather , Kushki Azadeh , Polatajko Helene , Missiuna Cheryl , Chau Tom 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
OBJECTIVE. Pencil grasps other than the dynamic tripod may be functional for handwriting. This study examined the impact of grasp on handwriting speed and legibility.
METHOD. We videotaped 120 typically developing fourth-grade students while they performed a writing task. We categorized the grasps they used and evaluated their writing for speed and legibility using a handwriting assessment. Using linear regression analysis, we examined the relationship between grasp and handwriting.
RESULTS. We documented six categories of pencil grasp: four mature grasp patterns, one immature grasp pattern, and one alternating grasp pattern. Multiple linear regression results revealed no significant effect for mature grasp on either legibility or speed.
CONCLUSION. Pencil grasp patterns did not influence handwriting speed or legibility in this sample of typically developing children. This finding adds to the mounting body of evidence that alternative grasps may be acceptable for fast and legible handwriting.
Effect of Robotic-Assisted Three-Dimensional Repetitive Motion to Improve Hand Motor Function and Control in Children With Handwriting Deficits: A Nonrandomized Phase 2 Device Trial
Authors: Palsbo Susan E. , Hood-Szivek Pamela 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
OBJECTIVE. We explored the efficacy of robotic technology in improving handwriting in children with impaired motor skills.
METHOD. Eighteen participants had impairments arising from cerebral palsy (CP), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or other disorders. The intervention was robotic-guided three-dimensional repetitive motion in 15–20 daily sessions of 25–30 min each over 4–8 wk.
RESULTS. Fine motor control improved for the children with learning disabilities and those ages 9 or older but not for those with CP or under age 9. All children with ASD or ADHD referred for slow writing speed were able to increase speed while maintaining legibility.
CONCLUSION. Three-dimensional, robot-assisted, repetitive motion training improved handwriting fluidity in children with mild to moderate fine motor deficits associated with ASD or ADHD within 10 hr of training. This dosage may not be sufficient for children with CP.
Functional Impact of Constraint Therapy and Bimanual Training in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: de Brito Brandão Marina , Gordon Andrew M. , Mancini Marisa Cotta 
Published: October 2012

AbstractOBJECTIVE. We compared children’s self-care performance and caregivers’ perception of children’s performance on functional goals established for children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP) after unimanual constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) or hand–arm bimanual intensive training (HABIT).METHOD. Sixteen children with CP were randomized to the CIMT or HABIT group. Interventions lasted for 15 days, 6 hr/day, totaling 90 hr. We used the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory and the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) to assess the children’s daily functioning and mixed analyses of variance to compare group means on functional test scores before and after intervention.RESULTS. Both groups showed significant improvements on functional measures. Group × Assessment interaction in COPM performance revealed greater improvements for the HABIT group after intervention (p = .04).CONCLUSION. The results suggest that specificity of training exists only for performance of specific goals established by parents and that both CIMT and HABIT can be used to increase children’s daily functioning.
Development and Validation of Tools for Evaluation of Orthosis Fabrication
Authors: Stefanovich Andonia , Williams Camille , McKee Pat , Hagemann Eric , Carnahan Heather 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
This study is the first phase of research aimed at developing new educational approaches to enhance occupational therapy students’ orthosis fabrication skills. Before the effectiveness of training can be determined, a method for evaluating performance must be established. Using the Delphi method, we developed a global rating scale and checklist for evaluating technical competence when fabricating metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint–stabilizing orthoses. To determine the reliability and validity of these tools, three evaluators used them to assess and score orthotic fabrication performance by experienced and student occupational therapists. The results suggest that these measurement tools are valid and reliable indicators of the technical skills involved in fabricating an MCP joint–stabilizing orthosis. Future studies should focus on building on these tools to evaluate communication skills, technical skills for making other types of orthoses, and effectiveness of training programs.
Cruise Tourism Externalities and Residents’ Support: A Mixed Approach
Authors: Brida Juan Gabriel , Chiappa Giacomo Del , Meleddu Marta , Pulina Manuela 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
This paper investigates residents’ preferences of investment in cruise tourism, taking its externalities into full account. The research involved data collection in the port of call of Messina (Sicily, Italy), during the peak cruise season in 2011. A mixed generalized ordered logit analysis, based upon a correspondence analysis, is run to examine what factors influence residents’ perceptions about investing in cruise tourism. Potential positive and negative externalities produced by this economic activity, as well as socio-demographic and economic determinants are taken into account. Overall, residents in Messina, treated as a composite stakeholder, would invest a very high level of resources in cruising if their income depends on the cruise activity, if they had a cruise trip in the past, if they belong to a family with a high number of components, and if they believe this activity to exert positive welfare, cultural and social externalities. Conversely, residents in Messina are likely to prefer a low, or very low level of investment the farther they live from the port, if they are female, retired and if they perceive a deterioration of the environment. Implications for policy makers are drawn from these empirical findings.
Comparison and assessment of leptin receptor expression by the following Origami aetheroleum study at broiler chickens COBB 500
Authors: Mrázová Ľubica , Židek Radoslav , Angelovičová Mária , Král Martin 
Published: October 2012

The recently discovered protein, leptin, is a 16 kD protein consisting of 146 amino acids which is synthesized primarily by adipose tissue and is secreted into the bloodstream after cleavage of the 21 amino acids signal peptide. Leptin impacts feed intake, the neuroendocrine-axis, metabolism and immunological processes. Leptin was first identified as the gene product found deficient in the obese ob/ob mouse. The hypothalamus appears to be the primary site of action, since leptin receptors are located within hypothalamic areas associated with control of appetite, reproduction and growth. Using herbs and essential oils depends on their antimicrobial activity. Most plants have favorable multifunctional properties, which are the specific content of bioactive components. Some authors characterize phytogenic substance such as natural substances plant origin, which leave no residues in animal products and is not necessary to keep the trade period before slaughter animals. Analyzes suggest that the structural function of the receptor exists as a dimer constructively in the plasma membrane. Each receptor dimer pair is reversibly bound to one molecule of leptin. When bound, signaling pathways are responsible for beginning the activation receptor associated Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and tyrosine phosphorylation of two key residues in the intracellular part of receptor. The aim of our experiment was to optimize the methodology for monitoring the expression of the leptin receptor extracellular avian model. We used samples of internal organs and abdominal fat chickens that were fed spirit and also fat and organ samples from broiler chickens from the control group. In heard tissue, spleen, liver at a relatively high concentration of total cDNA in the sample length leptin receptor extracellular fragment located in the expected quantities.
Purification and Characterization of Beta-Amylase of Bacillus subtilis Isolated from Kolanut Weevil
Authors: Olufunke Femi-Ola Titilayo , Azeez Ibikunle Ibidapo 
Published: October 2012

An extracellular beta amylase was induced in cultures of Bacillus subtilis isolated from the kolanut weevil, Balanogastris kolae grown in liquid medium that contained kolanut starch as sole carbon source. The enzyme was partially purified 1.28-fold by acid treatment with ice cold 1.0N HCl and 6.4-fold by gel filtration with Sephadex G-150. The beta amylase had a molecular weight of 39.4 kDa .The enzyme had its optimal activity at pH 5.0 and exhibited maximal activity at temperature of 50oC. The activity of the enzyme was enhanced by Na+, Ca2+ and ethylene diaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), while Hg2+ ,Mg2+ and Fe2+ acted as inhibitors of its activity. The beta amylase had an apparent Michaelis constant Km of 5.0 mg/ml and maximum velocity (Vmax) of 50 U/mg proteins.
Tuberculosis beliefs, meanings, and stigmas through the eyes of Qatar's migrant workers: Survey analysis and narratives
Authors: Watts Autumn , Saleh Marwa , Sanya Rahima , Ayaz Maryam , Joshi Abhyudaya , Sultan Ali , Mahfoud Ziad 
Published: October 2012

Background:
Tuberculosis (TB) kills nearly 3 million people and incurs at least 9 million new cases each year. While developing countries are most affected by this epidemic, migration contributes substantially to the spread of the disease. Qatar employs a vast migrant laborer workforce from TB epidemic countries, who live in high-density labor camps. Workers are grouped in the same camp rooms, and often work side by side. This puts workers at risk of developing MDR TB, with re-activation of their old TB strain or acquiring new TB infections.

Objectives & Methods:
This project proposed two major phases using quantitative and qualitative research methods to examine TB understandings in the migrant worker population:
1. Surveying worker perceptions of tuberculosis through widely distributed questionnaires
2. Collecting illness narratives through interviews with TB infected patients receiving treatment at the TB National Program in-patient clinic.
Understanding these patients' journey with TB from the time of infection to the time of diagnosis, to life during treatment and afterward, will offer physicians, nurses and other TB personnel a better understanding of workers who are infected, or face infection, with TB.

Results:
-1-Survey Data Analysis
Demographic and socio-economic variables of 231 participants (such as age, gender, marital status…etc) were summarized using frequency distributions. The majority of participants were between 20-29 years old and male. Almost half were Nepalese. The majority of participants said that TB is not so common or rare in their countries. Blood in cough, blood in sputum and cough were the most frequent symptoms known to participants. The majority reported the cause of bacteria was smoking. A large proportion of participants indicated that TB is preventable and treatable and it has a vaccine.
-2- Three illness narratives are presented.

Conclusions:
Still about 1 in 4 workers have never heard about TB. Of these, most have heard about it from their own countries. Alarmingly, participants' knowledge about symptoms, causes and modes of human-to-human transmission are less than optimal. The interviews revealed several recurring themes, mainly a reluctance on the part of the patient to ask questions of the physician and health staff due to perceived social, educational, and linguistic barriers.
Comparison of Chromatographic and Titrimetric Methods for the Determination of the a-amino Nitrogen in Standard Solution and Fish Protein Hydrolysates
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Zhang Fenglan , Cao Jin , Zhang Qingsheng , Chen Zhirong 
Published: October 2012

<p>Two analytical methods, reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and formol titration, were compared for their accuracy and precision for the determination of a-amino nitrogen (a-AN) concentration in fish protein hydrolysates. The result showed that, when tested with pure amino acid solutions, RP-HPLC method had a better standard deviation (S. D.), coefficient of variation (C. V.), and standard error (S. E.) but a poorer recovery rate compared with formol titration technique. The observed a-AN value by RP-HPLC has good coincidence with the actual a-AN value and their correlation coefficient (r) is 0.9981, which was close to the r value (0.9995) between the a-AN by formol titration and the actual a-AN. However, when tested with protein hydrolysates, the a-AN obtained from RP-HPLC technique were significantly (p&lt;0.05) lower than that from formol titration for the same sample. Therefore, the formol titration method can be used as a quick screening method to assess the quality fish hydrolystaes.</p><p> </p>
Comparison Study of the Rates of Manual Peripheral Blood Smear Review From 3 Automated Hematology Analyzers, Unicel DxH 800, ADVIA 2120i, and XE 2100, Using International Consensus Group Guidelines
Authors: Kim Sue Jung , Kim Yoonjung , Shin Saeam , Song Jaewoo , Choi Jong Rak 
Published: October 2012

Context.—In the clinical laboratory, it is important both to reduce the number of peripheral blood slide reviews to save time and money and to avoid reporting false results.Objective.—To determine differences in the slide review rates of 3 widely used automated hematologic analyzers, the Unicel DxH 800 (Beckman Coulter Inc, Fullerton, California), ADVIA 2120i (Siemens Diagnostics, Tarrytown, New York), and XE 2100 (Sysmex, Kobe, Japan), using International Consensus Group for Hematology Review guidelines.Design.—A total of 1485 samples were tested, and 300 were manually reviewed. Slide review rates, sensitivity, specificity, and false-positive and false-negative rates were estimated using consensus group rules and compared using χ2 tests, Fisher exact tests, or generalized estimating equations.Results.—Unicel DxH 800, ADVIA 2120i, and XE 2100 showed 22.8%, 20.2%, and 28.6% slide review rates; 14.3%, 14.3%, and 9.7% false-negative rates; and 13.7, 11.3%, and 17.3% false-positive rates, respectively. All analyzers showed significantly higher false-negative rates than that of the consensus group (2.9%).Conclusions.—False-negative rates were higher than the recommended levels. Among 3 automated hematologic analyzers, XE 2100 showed the highest rate of slide review. Because the present study clearly shows that the slide review rates have distinct characteristics among the studied analyzers, each individual laboratory should consider selecting the most appropriate analyzer according to clinical characteristics. Analyzers with high sensitivity may be advantageous in outpatient settings for screening patients, whereas analyzers with high specificity may be beneficial in inpatient settings for efficient patient care.