bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical Comparison Between Suture Anchor and Transtibial Pull-out Repair for Posterior Medial Meniscus Root Tears
Authors: Feucht Matthias J. , Grande Eduardo , Brunhuber Johannes , Rosenstiel Nikolaus , Burgkart Rainer , Imhoff Andreas B. , Braun Sepp 
Published: September 2013

Background: Posterior medial meniscus root (PMMR) tears have a serious effect on knee joint biomechanics. Currently used techniques for refixation of the PMMR include the transtibial pull-out repair (TP) and suture anchor repair (SA). These techniques have not been compared biomechanically. Hypothesis: The SA technique provides superior biomechanical properties compared with the TP technique. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: A total of 24 fresh-frozen porcine tibiae with attached intact medial menisci were used. The specimens were randomly assigned to 3 groups (8 specimens each). A standardized PMMR tear was created in 16 specimens. Refixation of the PMMR was performed by either the TP or SA technique. The native PMMR was left intact in 8 specimens. All specimens were subjected to cyclic loading followed by load-to-failure testing. Displacement after 100, 500, and 1000 cycles; maximum load to failure; stiffness; and displacement at failure were recorded. Results: Both repair techniques showed a significantly higher displacement during cyclic loading and a significantly lower maximum load and stiffness during load-to-failure testing compared with the native PMMR ( P < .05). The SA technique showed a significantly lower displacement after 100, 500, and 1000 cycles ( P < .001) and a significantly higher stiffness ( P = .016) compared with the TP technique. Maximum load did not differ significantly between the SA and TP techniques ( P = .027, Bonferroni adjustment). No significant difference between the 3 groups was observed for displacement at failure ( P > .05). Conclusion: The SA technique provided superior biomechanical properties compared with the TP technique. Both repair techniques did not reach the strength of the native PMMR. Clinical Relevance: The favorable biomechanical properties of the SA technique might be beneficial for healing of the repaired PMMR and restoration of meniscus function. Because of inferior time zero stability compared with the native PMMR, slow rehabilitation is recommended after meniscus root repair.
A Patient With Trauma Having Cavitary Pulmonary Nodules
Authors: Patel Dharmi , Kamangar Nader 
Published: September 2013

Background: Traumatic pulmonary pseudocysts (TPPs) are rare sequelae of blunt chest trauma and may be incidentally visualized on initial, or subsequent, chest imaging. Case: We present the case of a 37-year-old male with no past medical history, who was recently hospitalized in the intensive care unit after a motor vehicle accident and referred to our institution for a traumatic cataract repair. His preoperative chest radiograph revealed multiple left-sided pulmonary nodules that were confirmed on thoracic computed tomography (CT) and noted to be cavitary. Comparison of the films to prior imaging, negative infectious workup, and absence of any symptoms led to the diagnosis of TPPs. Follow-up imaging showed complete resolution of the lesions. Conclusion: The TPPs may be discovered on imaging shortly after blunt chest trauma and, in asymptomatic individuals, can often be monitored with observation and serial imaging.
Validation of a Tool to Assess and Track Undergraduate Attitudes Toward Those Living in Poverty
Authors: Blair Kevin D. , Brown Marlo , Schoepflin Todd , Taylor David B. 
Published: September 2013

Purpose: This article describes the development and validation of the Undergraduate Perceptions of Poverty Tracking Survey (UPPTS). Method: Data were collected from 301 undergraduates at a small university in the Northeast and analyzed using exploratory factor analysis augmented by random qualitative validation. Results: The resulting survey contains 39 questions and has six factors that meet empirical standards for validity and reliability. The UPPTS provides information regarding undergraduate students’ perceptions of those living in poverty in three areas: (1) general attitudes toward those living in poverty, including a sense of the students’ underlying explanation for why someone may be poor; (2) understanding of and empathy for those living in poverty; and (3) commitment to addressing poverty via direct action or support for programs/services that aid those in poverty. Discussion: The UPPTS builds upon the concepts of a lack of social empathy and cognitive distancing as principal reasons why people fail to do more to help the poor via either direct action or support for programs that will aid the poor. Further, social work and other educators may use the UPPTS to guide their efforts in poverty education and to track the progress of their efforts with undergraduate students.
Effects of Check and Connect on Attendance, Behavior, and Academics
Authors: Maynard Brandy R. , Kjellstrand Elizabeth K. , Thompson Aaron M. 
Published: September 2013

Objectives: This study examined the effects of Check & Connect (C&C) on the attendance, behavior, and academic outcomes of at-risk youth in a field-based effectiveness trial. Method: A multisite randomized block design was used, wherein 260 primarily Hispanic (89%) and economically disadvantaged (74%) students were randomized to treatment or control conditions within 14 urban middle and high schools. The social service organization Communities In Schools implemented C&C in each of the schools, and the effects were compared to those of typical Communities In Schools services. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to account for the nested or random school-level effects when modeling student-level responses to the intervention. Results: Controlling for pretest performance and all relevant student- and school-level characteristics, C&C was significantly related to improvements in academic performance and reductions in disciplinary referrals. No significant effects were found for attendance. Conclusions: C&C is a promising intervention to improve outcomes for at-risk youth in school settings. Application to social work practice and research are discussed.
CD44v6-targeted T cells mediate potent antitumor effects against acute myeloid leukemia and multiple myeloma
Authors: Casucci Monica , Nicolis di Robilant Benedetta , Falcone Laura , Camisa Barbara , Norelli Margherita , Genovese Pietro , Gentner Bernhard , Gullotta Fabiana , Ponzoni Maurilio , Bernardi Massimo , Marcatti Magda , Saudemont Aurore , Bordignon Claudio , Savoldo Barbara , Ciceri Fabio , Naldini Luigi , Dotti Gianpietro , Bonini Chiara , Bondanza Attilio 
Published: September 2013

Key Points
T cells genetically targeted to the tumor-promoting antigen CD44v6 are effective against AML and MM. CD44v6-targeted T cells do not recognize hematopoietic stem cells and keratinocytes but cause reversible monocytopenia.
Functional characterization of a serine-threonine protein kinase from Bambusa balcooathat implicates in cellulose overproduction and superior quality fiber formation
Authors: Ghosh Jayadri Sekhar , Chaudhuri Shubho , Dey Nrisingha , Pal Amita 
Published: September 2013

Abstract

Background
Molecular markers allow rapid identification of biologically important germplasm/s having desired character. Previously we have reported a genotype specific molecular marker, Balco1128 [GenBank ID EU258678] of Bambusa balcooa containing an ORF (375 bp) having high similarity with receptor like cytoplasmic kinase of Arabidopsis and Oryza. Balco1128 was found to be associated only with bamboo genotypes endowed with high cellulose and low lignin contents of fibers. Under the above backdrop, it was necessitated to characterize this genetic marker for better understanding of its biological significance in context of superior quality fiber development.

Results
The full length cDNA (3342 bp) of BbKst, a serine-threonine protein kinase was isolated from B. balcooa comprising of six LRR domains at the N-terminal end and a kinase domain at the C-terminal end. Bacteria-expressed BbKst-kinase domain (3339 bp long) showed Mg2+ dependent kinase activity at pH 7.0, 28°C. Bioinformatics study followed by phospho-amino analysis further confirmed that BbKst-kinase belongs to the serine/threonine protein kinase family. Transcript analysis of the BbKst gene following RNA slot blot hybridization and qPCR revealed higher expression of BbKst during initiation and elongation stages of fiber development. Tissue specific expression studies showed much higher expression of BbKst transcript in stems and internodes of B. balcooa than in leaves and rhizomes. Southern analysis revealed single copy insertion of BbKst in most of the Agrobacterium mediated transgenic tobacco plants. Real-time PCR detected 150-200 fold enhanced expression of BbKst in different T1 tobacco lines than that of the vector transformed plants. Heterologous expression of BbKst under control of 35S promoter in transgenic tobacco showed high cellulose deposition in the xylem fibers. Number of xylary fibers was higher in transgenic T0 and T1 plants than that of empty-vector transformed tobacco plants offering enhanced mechanical strength to the transgenic plants, which was also substantiated by their strong upright phenotypes, significantly higher cellulose contents, flexibility coefficient, slenderness ratio, and lower Runkel ratio of the fibers.

Conclusions
This finding clearly demonstrated that BbKst gene (GenBank ID JQ432560) encodes a serine/threonine protein kinase. BbKst induced higher cellulose deposition/synthesis in transgenic tobacco plants, an important attribute of fiber quality bestowing additional strength to the plant.
The human resource information system: a rapid appraisal of Pakistan’s capacity to employ the tool
Authors: Kumar Ramesh , Shaikh Babar Tasneem , Ahmed Jamil , Khan Zulfiqar , Mursalin Sayed , Memon Mahmood Iqbal , Zareen Shagufta 
Published: September 2013

Abstract

Background
Human resources are an important building block of the health system. During the last decade, enormous investment has gone into the information systems to manage human resources, but due to the lack of a clear vision, policy, and strategy, the results of these efforts have not been very visible. No reliable information portal captures the actual state of human resources in Pakistan’s health sector. The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided technical support for the assessment of the existing system and development of a comprehensive Human Resource Information System (HRIS) in Pakistan.

Methods
The questions in the WHO-HRIS Assessment tool were distributed into five thematic groups. Purposively selected (n=65) representatives from the government, private sector, and development partners participated in this cross sectional study, based on their programmatic affiliations.

Results
Fifty-five percent of organizations and departments have an independent Human Resources (HR) section managed by an establishment branch and are fully equipped with functional computers. Forty-five organizations (70%) had HR rules, regulations and coordination mechanisms, yet these are not implemented. Data reporting is mainly in paper form, on prescribed forms (51%), registers (3%) or even plain papers (20%). Data analysis does not give inputs to the decision making process and dissemination of information is quite erratic. Most of the organizations had no feedback mechanism for cross checking the HR data, rendering it unreliable.

Conclusion
Pakistan is lacking appropriate HRIS management. The current HRIS indeed has a multitude of problems. In the wake of 2011 reforms within the health sector, provinces are even in a greater need for planning their respective health department services and must work on the deficiencies and inefficiencies of their HRIS so that the gaps and HR needs are better aligned for reaching the 2015 UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) targets.
Global epidemiology of invasive meningococcal disease
Authors: Jafri Rabab Z , Ali Asad , Messonnier Nancy E , Tevi-Benissan Carol , Durrheim David , Eskola Juhani , Fermon Florence , Klugman Keith P , Ramsay Mary , Sow Samba , Zhujun Shao , Bhutta Zulfiqar A , Abramson Jon 
Published: September 2013

AbstractNeisseria meningitidisis one of the leading causes of bacterial meningitis globally and can also cause sepsis, pneumonia, and other manifestations. In countries with high endemic rates, the disease burden places an immense strain on the public health system. The worldwide epidemiology of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) varies markedly by region and over time. This review summarizes the burden of IMD in different countries and identifies the highest-incidence countries where routine preventive programs againstNeisseria meningitidiswould be most beneficial in providing protection. Available epidemiological data from the past 20 years in World Health Organization and European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control collections and published articles are included in this review, as well as direct communications with leading experts in the field. Countries were grouped into high-, moderate-, and low-incidence countries. The majority of countries in the high-incidence group are found in the African meningitis belt; many moderate-incidence countries are found in the European and African regions, and Australia, while low-incidence countries include many from Europe and the Americas. Priority countries for vaccine intervention are high- and moderate-incidence countries where vaccine-preventable serogroups predominate. Epidemiological data on burden of IMD are needed in countries where this is not known, particularly in South- East Asia and Eastern Mediterranean regions, so evidence-based decisions about the use of meningococcal vaccines can be made.
Different TLR4 expression and microglia/macrophage activation induced by hemorrhage in the rat spinal cord after compressive injury
Authors: Zhang Yu-Kai , Liu Jin-Tao , Peng Zheng-Wu , Fan Hong , Yao An-Hui , Cheng Peng , Liu Ling , Ju Gong , Kuang Fang 
Published: September 2013

AbstractBackgroundHemorrhage is a direct consequence of traumatic injury to the central nervous system and may cause innate immune reactions including cerebral Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 upregulation which usually leads to poor outcome in the traumatic brain injury. In spinal cord injury (SCI), however, how hemorrhage induces innate immune reaction in spinal parenchyma remains unknown. The present study aimed to see whether blood component and/or other factor(s) induce TLR4 and microglia/macrophages involved innate immune reactions in the rat spinal cord after traumatic injury.MethodsUsing the compressive SCI model of the rat, hemorrhage in the spinal cord was identified by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Microglia/macrophage activation, TLR4 expression, and cell apoptosis were investigated by immunohistochemistry. Nuclear factor (NF)-κB p50 level of the two segments of the cord was detected by western blotting assay. With carbon powder injection, blood origination of the hematoma was explored. The blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) states of the lesion site and the hematoma were compared with immunohistochemistry and tannic acid-ferric chloride staining.ResultsHistological observation found blood accumulated in the center of compression lesion site (epicenter) and in the hematoma approximately 1.5 cm away from the epicenter. TLR4 expression, microglia//macrophage activation, and subsequent apoptosis in the area of far-away hematoma were late and weak in comparison to that in epicenter. In addition, TLR4 positive microglia/macrophages appeared to be phagocytotic in the far-away hematoma more obviously than that in the epicenter. Injected carbon powder indicated that accumulated blood of the far-away hematoma originated from the bleeding of the lesion epicenter, and the BSCB around the hematoma was not compromised in the early phase. Accordingly, at 3 days post injury, NF-κB p50 was upregulated based on the similar levels of blood component hemoglobin, and cell apoptosis was obvious in the epicenter but not in the far-away hematoma.ConclusionThese data suggest that besides blood component, BSCB compromise and the extent of tissue injury contribute more to TLR4 and microglia/macrophage responses to the spinal cord hemorrhage. Therefore, the innate immune environment is a necessary consideration for the SCI therapy targeting TLR4 and microglia/macrophages.
A hydrophilic gel matrix for single-molecule super-resolution microscopy
Authors: Zessin Patrick JM , Krüger Carmen L , Malkusch Sebastian , Endesfelder Ulrike , Heilemann Mike 
Published: September 2013

AbstractBackgroundNovel microscopic techniques which bypass the resolution limit in light microscopy are becoming routinely established today. The higher spatial resolution of super-resolution microscopy techniques demands for precise correction of drift, spectral and spatial offset of images recorded at different axial planes.MethodsWe employ a hydrophilic gel matrix for super-resolution microscopy of cellular structures. The matrix allows distributing fiducial markers in 3D, and using these for drift correction and multi-channel registration. We demonstrate single-molecule super-resolution microscopy with photoswitchable fluorophores at different axial planes. We calculate a correction matrix for each spectral channel, correct for drift, spectral and spatial offset in 3D.Results and discussionWe demonstrate single-molecule super-resolution microscopy with photoswitchable fluorophores in a hydrophilic gel matrix. We distribute multi-color fiducial markers in the gel matrix and correct for drift and register multiple imaging channels. We perform two-color super-resolution imaging of click-labeled DNA and histone H2B in different axial planes, and demonstrate the quality of drift correction and channel registration quantitatively. This approach delivers robust microscopic data which is a prerequisite for data interpretation.
Toll-like receptor 2/4 links to free fatty acid-induced inflammation and β-cell dysfunction
Authors: Yin Jiajing , Peng Yongde , Wu Jingcheng , Wang Yufan , Yao Lili 
Published: September 2013

ABSTRACTT2D is a metabolic and inflammatory disease characterized by deteriorating β-cell function and increased levels of inflammatory cytokines. Low-grade inflammation and innate immune system activation lead to β-cell failure. Recently, SFAs have been proposed as triggers of metabolism-associated inflammation through the TLR family of PRRs. In this review, recent progress in defining the molecular basis of FFA-associated TLR2/4 activation and signaling in β-cell dysfunction and apoptosis is summarized. Furthermore, we highlight links between TLRs and diabetic complications, insulin resistance, and autophagy. This knowledge may facilitate novel strategies to abrogate inflammation in T2D.
Gfi-1 is the transcriptional repressor ofSOCS1in acute myeloid leukemia cells
Authors: Lee Ming-Cheng , Kuo Yuan-Yeh , Chou Wen-Chien , Hou Hsin-An , Hsiao Michael , Tien Hwei-Fang 
Published: September 2013

ABSTRACTSilencing of SOCS1, a TSG, has been detected in various malignancies, including AML. However, the underlying mechanism of SOCS1 inactivation remains elusive. In this study, we explored the role of histone methylation in SOCS1 expression in AML cells. By ChIP assay, we demonstrated that G9a and SUV39H1, two enzymes catalyzing H3K9 methylation, were physically associated with the SOCS1 promoter, and treatment with chaetocin, a histone methyltransferase inhibitor, suppressed H3K9 methylation on the SOCS1 promoter and enhanced SOCS1 expression. Furthermore, knockdown of G9a and SUV39H1 by siRNA could also induce SOCS1 expression. On the other hand, SOCS1 knockdown by shRNA eliminated chaetocin-induced cell apoptosis. To investigate further whether any transcription factor was involved in H3K9 methylation-related SOCS1 repression, we scanned the sequences of the SOCS1 gene promoter and found two binding sites for Gfi-1, a transcription repressor. By DNA pull-down and ChIP assays, we showed that Gfi-1 directly bound the SOCS1 promoter, and ectopic Gfi-1 expression suppressed STAT5-induced SOCS1 promoter activation. In contrast, Gfi-1 knockdown by shRNA enhanced SOCS1 expression and inhibited STAT5 expression. Moreover, the knockdown of G9a completely rescued the repressive effect of Gfi-1 on STAT5A-induced SOCS1 promoter activation. Collectively, our study indicates that the expression of Gfi-1 contributes to SOCS1 silencing in AML cells through epigenetic modification, and suppression of histone methyltransferase can provide new insight in AML therapy.
A novel transgenic mouse model of growth plate dysplasia reveals that decreased chondrocyte proliferation due to chronic ER stress is a key factor in reduced bone growth
Authors: Gualeni Benedetta , Rajpar M. Helen , Kellogg Aaron , Bell Peter A. , Arvan Peter , Boot-Handford Raymond P. , Briggs Michael D. 
Published: September 2013

SummaryDisease mechanisms leading to different forms of chondrodysplasia include extracellular matrix (ECM) alterations and intracellular stress resulting in abnormal changes to chondrocyte proliferation and survival. Delineating the relative contribution of these two disease mechanisms is a major challenge in understanding disease pathophysiology in genetic skeletal diseases and a prerequisite for developing effective therapies. To determine the influence of intracellular stress and changes in chondrocyte phenotype to the development of chondrodysplasia, we targeted the expression of the G2320R mutant form of thyroglobulin to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of resting and proliferating chondrocytes. Previous studies on this mutant protein have shown that it induces intracellular aggregates and causes cell stress and death in the thyroid gland. The expression and retention of this exogenous mutant protein in resting and proliferating chondrocytes resulted in a chronic cell stress response, growth plate dysplasia and reduced bone growth, without inducing any alterations to the architecture and organization of the cartilage ECM. More significantly, the decreased bone growth seemed to be the direct result of reduced chondrocyte proliferation in the proliferative zone of growth plates in transgenic mice, without transcriptional activation of a classical unfolded protein response (UPR) or apoptosis. Overall, these data show that mutant protein retention in the ER of resting and proliferative zone chondrocytes is sufficient to cause disrupted bone growth. The specific disease pathways triggered by mutant protein retention do not necessarily involve a prototypic UPR, but all pathways impact upon chondrocyte proliferation in the cartilage growth plate.