bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Triple touch sperm immobilization vs. single touch sperm immobilization in ICSI - a randomised trial
Authors: Velaers An , Paternot Goedele , Debrock Sophie , D’Hooghe Thomas , Spiessens Carl 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
Although different techniques for sperm immobilization have been described, their value has not been assessed in an adequately powered randomized study. The aim of this study was to compare two types of sperm immobilization methods prior to ICSI and to test the hypothesis that triple touch immobilization (TTIm) would lead to a higher (5% -65% up to 70%) fertilization rate (FR) than single touch immobilization (STIm).

Methods
A total of 3056 metaphase II (MII) oocytes, from 290 patients, were randomly assigned to the STIm group (n = 1528 oocytes; 145 cycles) or to the TTIm group (n = 1528 oocytes; 138 cycles). A total of 1478 oocytes (STIm group) and 1476 oocytes (TTIm group) were used in the statistical analysis. The primary outcome variable was FR. Secondary outcome variables included: number of good quality embryos (GQE) on day 2 and day 3, implantation rate (IR) and implantation with foetal heart beat rate (FHB). Statistical analysis was done using the Fisher Exact test with a significance level of 0.05.

Results
The results showed no differences in FR between both groups. The proportion of good quality embryos on day 3, was significantly higher in the STIm group (37.5%) compared to the TTIm group (31.8%; p = 0.02).

Conclusions
In this RCT, the hypothesis that the post-ICSI FR would be higher after TTIm than after STIm was not confirmed and the number of good quality embryos on day 3 was significantly lower in the TTIm group than in the STIm group. These data suggest that more ‘aggressive’ TTIm technique has no advantages compared to the STIm technique.
Risk of significant cytopenias after treatment with tocilizumab in systemic juvenile arthritis patients with a history of macrophage activation syndrome
Authors: Kessler Elizabeth A , Vora Sheetal S , Verbsky James W 
Published: August 2012

Abstract
Tocilizumab (TCZ) is the first FDA- approved treatment for systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA). We report 3 cases of cytopenias in children with sJIA treated with TCZ. Two of the children who developed significant cytopenias shortly after initiation of TCZ had a history of macrophage activation syndrome. We raise the possibility that patients with a tendency towards MAS have an increased risk of developing cytopenias when treated with tocilizumab.
Silica nanoparticles functionalized via click chemistry and ATRP for enrichment of Pb(II) ion
Authors: Li Wei , Xu Yaohui , Zhou Yang , Ma Wenhui , Wang Shixing , Dai Yongnian 
Published: August 2012

Abstract
Silica nanoparticles have been functionalized by click chemistry and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) simultaneously. First, the silanized silica nanoparticles were modified with bromine end group, and then the azide group was grafted onto the surface via covalent coupling. 3-Bromopropyl propiolate was synthesized, and then the synthesized materials were used to react with azide-modified silica nanoparticles via copper-mediated click chemistry and bromine surface-initiated ATRP. Transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis were performed to characterize the functionalized silica nanoparticles. We investigated the enrichment efficiency of bare silica and poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (PEGMA)-functionalized silica nanoparticles in Pb(II) aqueous solution. The results demonstrated that PEGMA-functionalized silica nanoparticles can enrich Pb(II) more quickly than pristine silica nanoparticles within 1 h.
Biomechanical assessment of balance and posture in subjects with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Sawacha Zimi , Carraro Elena , Del Din Silvia , Guiotto Annamaria , Bonaldo Lara , Punzi Leonardo , Cobelli Claudio , Masiero Stefano 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
Ankylosing spondylitis is a major chronic rheumatic disease that predominantly affects axial joints, determining a rigid spine from the occiput to the sacrum. The dorsal hyperkyphosis may induce the patients to stand in a stooped position with consequent restriction in patients’ daily living activities. The aim of this study was to develop a method for quantitatively and objectively assessing both balance and posture and their mutual relationship in ankylosing spondylitis subjects.

Methods
The data of 12 healthy and 12 ankylosing spondylitis subjects (treated with anti-TNF-α stabilized), with a mean age of 51.42 and 49.42 years; mean BMI of 23.08 and 25.44 kg/m2 were collected. Subjects underwent a morphological examination of the spinal mobility by means of a pocket compass needle goniometer, together with an evaluation of both spinal and hip mobility (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index), and disease activity (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index). Quantitative evaluation of kinematics and balance were performed through a six cameras stereophotogrammetric system and a force plate. Kinematic models together with a test for evaluating balance in different eye level conditions were developed. Head protrusion, trunk flexion-extension, pelvic tilt, hip-knee-ankle flexion-extension were evaluated during Romberg Test, together with centre of pressure parameters.

Results
Each subject was able to accomplish the required task. Subjects’ were comparable for demographic parameters. A significant increment was observed in ankylosing spondylitis subjects for knee joint angle with the target placed at each eye level on both sides (p < 0.042). When considering the pelvic tilt angle a statistically significant reduction was found with the target placed respectively at 10° (p = 0.034) and at 30° (p = 0.019) less than eye level. Furthermore in ankylosing spondylitis subjects both hip (p = 0.048) and ankle (p = 0.029) joints angles differs significantly. When considering the posturographic parameters significant differences were observed for ellipse, center of pressure path and mean velocity (p < 0.04). Goniometric evaluation revealed significant increment of thoracic kyphosis reduction of cervical and lumbar range of motion compared to healthy subjects.

Conclusions
Our findings confirm the need to investigate both balance and posture in ankylosing spondylitis subjects. This methodology could help clinicians to plan rehabilitation treatments.
Particulate matter air pollution disrupts endothelial cell barrier via calpain-mediated tight junction protein degradation
Authors: Wang Ting , Wang Lichun , Moreno-Vinasco Liliana , Lang Gabriel D , Siegler Jessica H , Mathew Biji , Usatyuk Peter V , Samet Jonathan M , Geyh Alison S , Breysse Patrick N , Natarajan Viswanathan , Garcia Joe G N 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
Exposure to particulate matter (PM) is a significant risk factor for increased cardiopulmonary morbidity and mortality. The mechanism of PM-mediated pathophysiology remains unknown. However, PM is proinflammatory to the endothelium and increases vascular permeability in vitro and in vivo via ROS generation.

Objectives
We explored the role of tight junction proteins as targets for PM-induced loss of lung endothelial cell (EC) barrier integrity and enhanced cardiopulmonary dysfunction.

Methods
Changes in human lung EC monolayer permeability were assessed by Transendothelial Electrical Resistance (TER) in response to PM challenge (collected from Ft. McHenry Tunnel, Baltimore, MD, particle size >0.1 μm). Biochemical assessment of ROS generation and Ca2+ mobilization were also measured.

Results
PM exposure induced tight junction protein Zona occludens-1 (ZO-1) relocation from the cell periphery, which was accompanied by significant reductions in ZO-1 protein levels but not in adherens junction proteins (VE-cadherin and β-catenin). N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC, 5 mM) reduced PM-induced ROS generation in ECs, which further prevented TER decreases and atteneuated ZO-1 degradation. PM also mediated intracellular calcium mobilization via the transient receptor potential cation channel M2 (TRPM2), in a ROS-dependent manner with subsequent activation of the Ca2+-dependent protease calpain. PM-activated calpain is responsible for ZO-1 degradation and EC barrier disruption. Overexpression of ZO-1 attenuated PM-induced endothelial barrier disruption and vascular hyperpermeability in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusions
These results demonstrate that PM induces marked increases in vascular permeability via ROS-mediated calcium leakage via activated TRPM2, and via ZO-1 degradation by activated calpain. These findings support a novel mechanism for PM-induced lung damage and adverse cardiovascular outcomes.
Analysis of prescription database extracted from standard textbooks of traditional Dai medicine
Authors: Zhang Chuang , Chongsuvivatwong Virasakdi , Keawpradub Niwat , Lin Yanfang 
Published: August 2012

Abstract
Background
Traditional Dai Medicine (TDM) is one of the four major ethnomedicine of China. In 2007 a group of experts produced a set of seven Dai medical textbooks on this subject. The first two were selected as the main data source to analyse well recognized prescriptions.

Objective
To quantify patterns of prescriptions, common ingredients, indications and usages of TDM.

Methods
A relational database linking the prescriptions, ingredients, herb names, indications, and usages was set up. Frequency of pattern of combination and common ingredients were tabulated.

Results
A total of 200 prescriptions and 402 herbs were compiled. Prescriptions based on "wind" disorders, a detoxification theory that most commonly deals with symptoms of digestive system diseases, accounted for over one third of all prescriptions. The major methods of preparations mostly used roots and whole herbs.

Conclusion
The information extracted from the relational database may be useful for understanding symptomatic treatments. Antidote and detoxification theory deserves further research.
Bootstrapping phylogenies inferred from rearrangement data
Authors: Lin Yu , Rajan Vaibhav , Moret Bernard ME 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackgroundLarge-scale sequencing of genomes has enabled the inference of phylogenies based on the evolution of genomic architecture, under such events as rearrangements, duplications, and losses. Many evolutionary models and associated algorithms have been designed over the last few years and have found use in comparative genomics and phylogenetic inference. However, the assessment of phylogenies built from such data has not been properly addressed to date. The standard method used in sequence-based phylogenetic inference is the bootstrap, but it relies on a large number of homologous characters that can be resampled; yet in the case of rearrangements, the entire genome is a single character. Alternatives such as the jackknife suffer from the same problem, while likelihood tests cannot be applied in the absence of well established probabilistic models.ResultsWe present a new approach to the assessment of distance-based phylogenetic inference from whole-genome data; our approach combines features of the jackknife and the bootstrap and remains nonparametric. For each feature of our method, we give an equivalent feature in the sequence-based framework; we also present the results of extensive experimental testing, in both sequence-based and genome-based frameworks. Through the feature-by-feature comparison and the experimental results, we show that our bootstrapping approach is on par with the classic phylogenetic bootstrap used in sequence-based reconstruction, and we establish the clear superiority of the classic bootstrap for sequence data and of our corresponding new approach for rearrangement data over proposed variants. Finally, we test our approach on a small dataset of mammalian genomes, verifying that the support values match current thinking about the respective branches.ConclusionsOur method is the first to provide a standard of assessment to match that of the classic phylogenetic bootstrap for aligned sequences. Its support values follow a similar scale and its receiver-operating characteristics are nearly identical, indicating that it provides similar levels of sensitivity and specificity. Thus our assessment method makes it possible to conduct phylogenetic analyses on whole genomes with the same degree of confidence as for analyses on aligned sequences. Extensions to search-based inference methods such as maximum parsimony and maximum likelihood are possible, but remain to be thoroughly tested.
Predicting and characterizing selective multiple drug treatments for metabolicdiseases and cancer
Authors: Facchetti Giuseppe , Zampieri Mattia , Altafini Claudio 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
In the field of drug discovery, assessing the potential of multidrug therapies isa difficult task because of the combinatorial complexity (both theoretical andexperimental) and because of the requirements on the selectivity of the therapy.To cope with this problem, we have developed a novel method for the systematic insilico investigation of synergistic effects of currently available drugs ongenome-scale metabolic networks.

Results
The algorithm finds the optimal combination of drugs which guarantees theinhibition of an objective function, while minimizing the side effect on the othercellular processes. Two different applications are considered: finding drugsynergisms for human metabolic diseases (like diabetes, obesity and hypertension)and finding antitumoral drug combinations with minimal side effect on the normalhuman cell. The results we obtain are consistent with some of the availabletherapeutic indications and predict new multiple drug treatments. A clusteranalysis on all possible interactions among the currently available drugsindicates a limited variety on the metabolic targets for the approved drugs.

Conclusion
The in silico prediction of drug synergisms can represent an important tool forthe repurposing of drugs in a realistic perspective which considers also theselectivity of the therapy. Moreover, for a more profitable exploitation ofdrug-drug interactions, we have shown that also experimental drugs which have adifferent mechanism of action can be reconsider as potential ingredients of newmulticompound therapeutic indications. Needless to say the clues provided by acomputational study like ours need in any case to be thoroughly evaluatedexperimentally.
The effect of three different toe props on plantar pressure and patient comfort
Authors: Johnson Sarah , Branthwaite Helen , Naemi Roozbeh , Chockalingam Nachiappan 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackgroundArthritic toe pathologies frequently lead to the development of painful apical pressure skin lesions that can compromise gait and affect quality of life. Historically conservative treatments involve the use of a toe prop with the intended aim of reducing plantar pressure from the apex of the digit. However, the effect of toe prop treatment on plantar digital pressure has not been investigated.MethodTwenty two subjects were recruited with lesser digital deformities and associated apical skin lesions. Individual pressure sensors were placed on the apices of the lesser toes and pressure was recorded under three toe prop conditions (leather, gel and silicone mould). A modified comfort index was utilised to assess the comfort of each condition.ResultsSignificant difference (p < 0.05) in mean peak pressure was observed at the apex of the 2nd toe when using the gel (p < 0.001) and silicone (p < 0.001) toe prop compared to no toe prop. There was also a significant difference in the mean pressure time integral at the apex of the 2nd toe when using gel (p < 0.001) and silicone (p < 0.004) toe props. There was no significant correlation between comfort and the recorded peak pressures. However, there was an indication that the silicone toe prop was more comfortable.ConclusionAs compared to the leather and silicone mould toe props, gel toe props were found to be the most effective for reducing peak pressure and pressure time integral on the apex of the second digit in patients with claw or hammer toe deformity.
Effect of vitamin D on insulin resistance and anthropometric parameters in Type 2 diabetes; a randomized double-blind clinical trial
Authors: Heshmat Ramin , Tabatabaei-Malazy Ozra , Abbaszadeh-Ahranjani Shabnam , Shahbazi Samimeh , Khooshehchin Ghazal , Bandarian Fathemeh , Larijani Bagher 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackground & the purpose of the studyPrevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing worldwide. To reduce its risk and progression, preventive strategies are needed. Vitamin supplementation such as vitamin D is one of the strategies. This study was designed to investigate the effect of injection of vitamin D on insulin resistance and anthropometric parameters in T2DM.MethodsThis randomized double-blind clinical trial was conducted with 42 diabetic patients in two groups; intervention group with single intramuscular injection of 300,000 International Unit (IU) of vitamin D3 and the placebo group. After recording demographic and anthropometric factors (waist circumference, blood pressure and body mass index), fasting blood samples was taken for measurement of blood glucose, 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-OHD3), insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and estimation of Homeostasis Model Assessment Index (HOMA) in two times; before study and after three months.ResultsTwo groups had similar baseline characteristics (each group = 21 subjects). Three months after vitamin D injection, HbA1c, anthropometric factors and HOMA index in intervention group stayed constant, however, serum 25- OHD3 was significantly increased (p = 0.007).ConclusionThe present data is not convincing and further studies with large sample sizes are needed to show the definite effect of injection of vitamin D on control of diabetes and its risk.
Physical constraints on the establishment of intracellular spatial gradients in bacteria
Authors: Tropini Carolina , Rabbani Naveed , Huang Kerwyn Casey 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
Bacteria dynamically regulate their intricate intracellular organization involving proteins that facilitate cell division, motility, and numerous other processes. Consistent with this sophisticated organization, bacteria are able to create asymmetries and spatial gradients of proteins by localizing signaling pathway components. We use mathematical modeling to investigate the biochemical and physical constraints on the generation of intracellular gradients by the asymmetric localization of a source and a sink.

Results
We present a systematic computational analysis of the effects of other regulatory mechanisms, such as synthesis, degradation, saturation, and cell growth. We also demonstrate that gradients can be established in a variety of bacterial morphologies such as rods, crescents, spheres, branched and constricted cells.

Conclusions
Taken together, these results suggest that gradients are a robust and potentially common mechanism for providing intracellular spatial cues.
Pigment epithelium-Derived Factor (PEDF) Varies with Body Composition and Insulin Resistance in Healthy Young People
Authors: Sunderland Kyle L. , Tryggestad Jeanie B. , Wang Joshua J. , Teague April M. , Pratt Lauren V. , Zhang Sarah X. , Thompson David M. , Short Kevin R. 
Published: August 2012

Context:
Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) was recently implicated as a metabolic regulatory protein because plasma concentration was increased in obese or insulin resistant adults. To our knowledge, circulating PEDF values in children have not been reported. Because PEDF is a predictor of metabolic health in adults, it may have a similar impact on metabolic profiles in children.

Objective:
The objective of the study was to determine whether PEDF in normal-weight (NW) and overweight/obese (OW) children and young adults varies with age, sex, or body composition or is associated with clinical markers of metabolic disease.

Setting:
Volunteers were tested at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

Participants:
Ninety-one NW (8–30 yr old) and 105 OW (8–35 yr old) males and females participated in the study.

Main Outcome Measures:
Body composition, blood pressure, arterial compliance, fasting plasma PEDF, glucose, insulin, (used for homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance), triglycerides, cholesterol (total, low density lipoprotein, and high density lipoprotein), and C-reactive protein.

Results:
PEDF was 60% higher in the OW vs. NW participants but did not differ between males and females. PEDF was positively correlated with body mass, body mass index, fat and lean mass, fasting insulin, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance in both the NW and OW groups. Multiple regression models revealed that fat and lean mass were significant predictors of circulating PEDF levels independent of age, sex, and body mass index category.

Conclusions:
Plasma PEDF is elevated in OW youth and is positively associated with insulin resistance. These findings suggest that PEDF may play a role in the development of cardiometabolic dysfunction in youth.
Association between World Health Organization categories of body mass index and relative risks for weight-related pregnancy outcomes: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zaballa Katrina , Liu Anthony , Peek Michael John , Mongelli Max , Nanan Ralph 
Published: August 2012

Objective To analyse the dose-dependent effect of body mass index (BMI) categories for common pregnancy outcomes. Methods A retrospective cohort study of all deliveries that occurred between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2009 in a tertiary maternity centre, in Sydney Australia. Common pregnancy outcomes were analysed against World Health Organization (WHO) BMI categories using multiple logistic regression analysis. Results From a total of 18,304 pregnancies, 9087 singleton pregnancies with complete data-sets were identified. Of these pregnancies, 4000 (44%) had a normal BMI, 470 (5.2%) were underweight, 2293 (25.2%) were overweight, 1316 (14.5%) were obese class I, 630 (6.9%) were obese class II and 378 (4.2%) were obese class III. Using the normal BMI category as the reference, there was a clear dose effect of BMI categories for hypertension ( P < 0.001), pre-eclampsia ( P < 0.001), caesarean section ( P < 0.001), macrosomia ( P < 0.001), large for gestational age ( P < 0.001), small for gestational age ( P < 0.001) and neonatal respiratory distress ( P = 0.039). In contrast, despite a significant association with BMI ( P < 0.001), a dose-dependent effect was not found for gestational diabetes. Conclusion The results of our study have important clinical significance as the data, using WHO BMI categories, more accurately help stratify risk assessment in a clinically relevant dose-dependent relationship.