bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Construction and Characterization of an Infectious Molecular Clone of Koala Retrovirus
Authors: Shojima Takayuki , Hoshino Shigeki , Abe Masumi , Yasuda Jiro , Shogen Hiroko , Kobayashi Takeshi , Miyazawa Takayuki 
Published: February 2013

ABSTRACT

Koala retrovirus (KoRV) is a gammaretrovirus that is currently endogenizing into koalas. Studies on KoRV infection have been hampered by the lack of a replication-competent molecular clone. In this study, we constructed an infectious molecular clone, termed plasmid pKoRV522, of a KoRV isolate (strain Aki) from a koala reared in a Japanese zoo. The virus KoRV522, derived from pKoRV522, grew efficiently in human embryonic kidney (HEK293T) cells, attaining 10
6
focus-forming units/ml. Several mutations in the Gag (L domain) and Env regions reported to be involved in reduction in viral infection/production
in vitro
are found in pKoRV522, yet KoRV522 replicated well, suggesting that any effects of these mutations are limited. Indeed, a reporter virus pseudotyped with pKoRV522 Env was found to infect human, feline, and mink cell lines efficiently. Analyses of KoRV L-domain mutants showed that an additional PPXY sequence, PPPY, in Gag plays a critical role in KoRV budding. Altogether, our results demonstrate the construction and characterization of the first infectious molecular clone of KoRV. The infectious clone reported here will be useful for elucidating the mechanism of endogenization of the virus in koalas and screening for antiretroviral drugs for KoRV-infected koalas.
Genetic Screen of a Library of Chimeric Poxviruses Identifies an Ankyrin Repeat Protein Involved in Resistance to the Avian Type I Interferon Response
Authors: Buttigieg Karen , Laidlaw Stephen M. , Ross Craig , Davies Marc , Goodbourn Stephen , Skinner Michael A. 
Published: February 2013

ABSTRACT

Viruses must be able to resist host innate responses, especially the type I interferon (IFN) response. They do so by preventing the induction or activity of IFN and/or by resisting the antiviral effectors that it induces. Poxviruses are no exception, with many mechanisms identified whereby mammalian poxviruses, notably, vaccinia virus (VACV), but also cowpox and myxoma viruses, are able to evade host IFN responses. Similar mechanisms have not been described for avian poxviruses (avipoxviruses). Restricted for permissive replication to avian hosts, they have received less attention; moreover, the avian host responses are less well characterized. We show that the prototypic avipoxvirus, fowlpox virus (FWPV), is highly resistant to the antiviral effects of avian IFN. A gain-of-function genetic screen identified
fpv014
to contribute to increased resistance to exogenous recombinant chicken alpha IFN (ChIFN1).
fpv014
is a member of the large family of poxvirus (especially avipoxvirus) genes that encode proteins containing N-terminal ankyrin repeats (ANKs) and C-terminal F-box-like motifs. By binding the Skp1/cullin-1 complex, the F box in such proteins appears to target ligands bound by the ANKs for ubiquitination. Mass spectrometry and immunoblotting demonstrated that tandem affinity-purified, tagged fpv014 was complexed with chicken cullin-1 and Skp1. Prior infection with an
fpv014
-knockout mutant of FWPV still blocked transfected poly(I·C)-mediated induction of the beta IFN (ChIFN2) promoter as effectively as parental FWPV, but the mutant was more sensitive to exogenous ChIFN1. Therefore, unlike the related protein fpv012, fpv014 does not contribute to the FWPV block to induction of ChIFN2 but does confer resistance to an established antiviral state.
Targeting FoxM1 Effectively Retards p53-Null Lymphoma and Sarcoma
Authors: Wang Zebin , Zheng Yu , Park Hyun Jung , Li Jing , Carr Janai R. , Chen Yi-ju , Kiefer Megan M. , Kopanja Dragana , Bagchi Srilata , Tyner Angela L. , Raychaudhuri Pradip 
Published: February 2013

Abstract
The forkhead box transcription factor FOXM1 is considered to be a promising target for cancer therapy. However, the significance of FOXM1 in tumors harboring mutation in p53, which is very common, is unclear. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of FoxM1 targeting in spontaneous p53-null tumors using genetic ablation as well as using a peptide inhibitor of FOXM1. We show that conditional deletion of FoxM1 inhibits growth of the p53-null thymic lymphoma and sarcoma cells. In addition, deletion of FoxM1 induces apoptotic cell death of the p53-null tumors, accompanied by reduced expression of the FOXM1 target genes survivin and Bmi1. An ARF-derived peptide that inhibits the activity of FOXM1, by targeting it to the nucleolus, also induces apoptosis in the p53-null sarcoma and lymphoma, leading to a strong inhibition of their metastatic colonization. Together, our observations suggest that FOXM1 is critical for survival and growth of the p53-null lymphoma and sarcoma and provide proof-of-principle that FOXM1 is an effective therapeutic target for sarcoma and lymphoma carrying loss of function mutation in p53. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(5); 759–67. ©2013 AACR.
High on-treatment platelet reactivity – definition and measurement
Authors: Cattaneo Marco 
Published: February 2013

SummaryIn the last decade, several studies revealed inter-patient response variability to antiplatelet agents: patients who display negligible or no responses to these drugs are considered poor responders, or “resistant” to treatment. In order to identify poor responders to an antiplatelet drug, laboratory tests of platelet function that specifically explore the platelet activation pathway that is targeted by the drug should be utilised. In addition, they should be performed both at baseline and during treatment: however, most studies explored platelet function during antiplatelet treatment, in order to identify those patients with “high on-treatment platelet reactivity” (HPR), which exposes them to increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Many tests of platelet function have been used, most of which are able to identify patients at risk of MACE. Unfortunately, universal cut-off values for HPR have not been clearly established yet. In addition, the concordance among different tests in the identification of patients at risk is very poor and the most effective and safe treatment for patients at risk is still unknown.
Estrogen Receptor Activation Protects Against TNF-α-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction
Authors: Palmieri Daniela , Perego Patrizia , Palombo Domenico 
Published: February 2013

Lack of estrogen is a cause of cardiovascular disease in men and postmenopausal women. We examined the effects of estrogen receptor (ERs) activation/inactivation on endothelial cells subjected to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, which is involved in vascular disease pathogenesis. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 9 expression, as well as protein kinase B (PKB) activation were evaluated as markers of endothelial dysfunction. The TNF-α induces eNOS and MMP-9 expression and PKB activation. The ER activation by apigenin, a nonsteroidal compound with estrogen-like activity mediated through ER binding-dependent pathways, counteracts these effects. These effects are reversed by classic (ER-α and ER-β) and nonclassic (G-protein-coupled receptor) ER inhibitors (ICI182 780 and pertussis toxin, respectively). Our data suggest that ER activation counteracts endothelial dysfunction induced by TNF-α. The use of ER activators, such as apigenin, may represent a strategy to prevent vascular disease associated with endothelial dysfunction, while avoiding the feminizing effects of estrogens.
Long-Term Glycemic Control as a Result of Initial Education for Children With New Onset Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Cabrera Susanne M. , Srivastava Nayan T. , Behzadi Jennifer M. , Pottorff Tina M. , DiMeglio Linda A. , Walvoord Emily C. 
Published: February 2013

Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the role of initial diabetes education delivery at an academic medical center (AMC) versus non-AMCs on long-term glycemic control. Methods We performed a retrospective study of children with type 1 diabetes referred to an AMC after being educated at non-AMCs. These children were matched to a group of children diagnosed and educated as inpatients at an AMC. The A1C levels at 2, 3, and 5 years from diagnosis were compared between the 2 groups of children. Results Records were identified from 138 children. Glycemic control was comparable in the non-AMC-educated versus AMC-educated patients at 2, 3, and 5 years from diagnosis. The A1C was also highly consistent in each patient over time. Conclusions Long-term glycemic control was independent of whether initial education was delivered at an AMC or non-AMC. Formal education and location at time of diagnosis do not appear to play a significant role in long-term glycemic control. Novel educational constructs, focusing on developmental stages of childhood and reeducation over time, are likely more important than education at time of diagnosis.
Test of Wheeled Mobility (TOWM) and a short wheelie test: a feasibility and validity study
Authors: Fliess-Douer Osnat , Van Der Woude Lucas Hv , Vanlandewijck Yves C 
Published: February 2013

Objective: To assess the feasibility and validity of both the Test of Wheeled Mobility (TOWM) and a wheelie test. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: KU Leuven gymnasium. Subjects: Thirty male manual wheelchair users (age range 23–53 years) with spinal cord injury. Interventions: Participants preformed both tests after completing a personal information form and a ‘Perceived self-efficacy in WM’ scale. The TOWM consists of 30 tasks reflecting functional wheeled mobility. The wheelie test consists of eight tasks measuring the ability to perform a ‘wheelie’ in challenging situations. Main measure: Ability, performance time, qualitative and anxiety scores were assessed. Convergent validity was tested by correlating the TOWM and the wheelie test scores. Construct validity was assessed by testing whether the four scores of both tests are significantly related to perceived self-efficacy in wheeled mobility, time since injury and sport participation. Results: TOWM average total testing time was 24.7 minutes (±5.93) and the wheelie test was 12.62 minutes (±5.08). Convergent validity was confirmed by the positive correlation between the TOWM and wheelie test total ability scores ( r = 0.84; P < 0.001), quality scores ( r = 0.88) and anxiety scores ( r = 0.66). Moderate correlations were found between the total time scores of the TOWM and wheelie test ( r = 0.47). Construct validity was confirmed by fair to moderate correlations between both test’s scores with time since injury, self-efficacy and sport participation after injury. Conclusion: The TOWM and the wheelie tests are feasible and valid instruments for assessing manual wheelchair mobility in persons with spinal cord injury.
Neural Correlates of Activities of Daily Living in Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors: Mioshi E. , Hodges J. R. , Hornberger M. 
Published: February 2013

Background: Little research to date has investigated neural correlates of functional disability in frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Methods: Activities of daily living (ADL) were covaried against gray matter atrophy regions via Voxel-based morphometry in FTD (n = 52) and contrasted against a dementia control Alzheimer disease (AD) group (n = 20) and healthy age-matched controls (n = 18). Results: Both patient groups had similar ADL scores. However, FTD and AD differed on the gray matter atrophy areas associated with ADL scores. The FTD showed involvement of prefrontal and thalamus regions while AD showed widespread temporal, parietal, frontal, and caudate atrophy correlating with ADL dysfunction. Importantly, only the left superior frontal gyrus was implicated in ADL dysfunction for both FTD and AD. Conclusions: Differences in underlying neural correlates of ADL impairment have important clinical implications as these differences should be taken into account when interventions are planned. Dementia subtypes might require specifically tailored interventions for functional disability.
Depression and systemic lupus erythematosus: a systematic review
Authors: Palagini L , Mosca M , Tani C , Gemignani A , Mauri M , Bombardieri S 
Published: February 2013

Objective Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, relapsing–remitting autoimmune disorder that involves multiple organ systems including the central nervous system. Among the items included in the nomenclature for neuropsychiatric SLE, mood disorders have been identified. The aim of this paper is to review the clinical and psychobiological relationship between depression and SLE. Method We performed a systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, using MeSH headings and keywords for ‘depression’ and ‘SLE’. Results Seventeen studies reported depressive disorders, with prevalence rates in the range 17–75%. Three studies reported the most frequent symptoms, which may be represented by fatigue, weakness, somatic disorders and sleep disorders. Suicide ideation was much higher than in the general population. Nine studies analysed the relationship to SLE disease activity. The results of the available literature are contradictory. Psychobiological hypotheses have been considered in 13 studies. Among the psychobiological hypotheses which might underline the plausibility of their relationship, ‘psychosocial factors’ were the most frequently reported. Conclusions Differences in assessment techniques appear to be the main explanation for the variability in findings and important methodological limitations are present in the available literature to definitively point to the prevalence of depression, type of depression and most prevalent symptoms. To date, the relationship between depression and SLE disease activity also appears controversial. Methodological limitations are present in the available literature and it would be necessary to develop evidence-based guidelines to improve the diagnosis of depression in SLE. Identification of SLE-specific biomarkers of depression also has high priority.
Beyond the baby blues: perspectives of women diagnosed with a mood disorder on children, pregnancy and medication
Authors: Paterson Amelia , Parker Gordon , Fletcher Kathryn , Graham Rebecca 
Published: February 2013

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the views of women diagnosed with a mood disorder about children, medication and pregnancy. Method: Female patients from the Black Dog Institute were invited to complete a questionnaire regarding their views about pregnancy, children and medication during pregnancy. Diagnostic groupings were derived by assessing DSM-IV criteria for mood disorders. Unipolar and bipolar patient responses were analysed to determine any differences between groups. Results: Women with bipolar disorder were more concerned than those with a unipolar condition about the impact pregnancy would have on their mood, as well as the potential for their offspring to inherit a mood condition. Both groups of women expressed concerns regarding the child-rearing environment, and stated that knowing the risk their child could have of developing a mood disorder would encourage them to be more vigilant parents. Conclusion: While both groups were concerned about the environment in which they would raise their child and wanted to be vigilant parents, women diagnosed with a bipolar condition expressed stronger opinions regarding the impact that their pregnancy could have on their mood disorder, and passing the mood disorder onto their children.
The use of psychotropic agents for the symptoms of obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Brakoulias Vlasios , Starcevic Vladan , Berle David , Milicevic Denise , Moses Karen , Hannan Anthony , Sammut Peter , Martin Andrew 
Published: February 2013

Objective: To describe the use of psychotropic agents in a sample of subjects with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), and in particular the differences associated with different OCD symptoms. Method: A total of 154 subjects participated in a study assessing OCD symptom subtypes, called the Nepean OCD Study. In addition to a comprehensive evaluation of the subjects’ OCD symptoms using the Yale–Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS), Vancouver Obsessive–Compulsive Inventory (VOCI), and the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS), the subjects’ medication history was recorded. The association between symptom severity, disability, OCD symptom subtypes and the use of psychotropic agents was examined. Results: Psychotropic medication was taken by 93 (60.4%) participants. In the majority of cases ( n=55, 59.1%), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) were taken, and of the SSRIs, the most commonly used agent was escitalopram ( n=21, 22.6%). Psychotropic agents were more likely to be taken by subjects with higher Y-BOCS and SDS scores. Hoarding was associated with a lower likelihood of psychotropic use, whereas unacceptable/taboo thoughts were associated with an increased likelihood of psychotropic and antipsychotic use. Conclusion: Patients with OCD are more likely to be taking psychotropic agents if they have a more severe illness, greater disability and more prominent unacceptable/taboo thoughts.
Functional Outcome and Limitation of Sporting Activities After Bimalleolar and Trimalleolar Ankle Fractures
Authors: Hong Choon Chiet , Roy Shuvendu Prosad , Nashi Nazrul , Tan Ken Jin 
Published: February 2013

Background: Ankle fractures are extremely common. However, the outcomes of operatively treated bimalleolar and trimalleolar ankle fractures remain unclear. We aimed to evaluate and compare the functional outcomes of operatively treated bimalleolar versus trimalleolar ankle fractures and the ability of patients to return to sporting activities. Methods: A retrospective review of all patients with operatively treated ankle fractures for a period of 2 years was performed. Demographics, fracture pattern, operative details, postoperative radiographs, and complications were extracted and analyzed statistically. Outcome variables were union rates, pain ratings using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Olerud and Molander (O&M) score, ability to return to sporting activities, satisfaction with surgery, and surgical complications. Results: Forty-seven patients with bimalleolar and trimalleolar ankle fractures were recruited. At 1 year postoperatively, most patients regained good function and had good to excellent O&M scores. There were no notable differences in terms of VAS and O&M scores for both the bimalleolar and trimalleolar group. However, 26 (55.3%) of 47 patients had residual pain. Twenty-nine (61.7%) patients complained of stiffness, and 21 (44.7%) patients had ankle swelling. Of 33 (70.2%) patients who were involved in sporting activities prior to the ankle injury, 9 of 33 (27.3%) were able to return to preinjury level of sporting activities with no difficulties. Of the 33 patients, 18.2% were unable to do sports activities at all. Conclusion: The majority of our patients recovered well in their second year despite some residual deficits. We found no difference in functional outcome between bimalleolar and trimalleolar ankle fractures, although it is of great concern that a notable number of patients will not return to sporting activities. Residual symptoms and functional limitation after ankle fracture must be emphasized to patients to manage postoperative expectations. Level of Evidence: Level II, retrospective case series.
Ivabradine in Combination With Metoprolol Succinate in the Treatment of Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia
Authors: Ptaszynski Pawel , Kaczmarek Krzysztof , Ruta Jan , Klingenheben Thomas , Cygankiewicz Iwona , Wranicz Jerzy K. 
Published: February 2013

Background: Inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST) is a clinical syndrome characterized by excessive resting heart rate (HR) or a disproportional increase in HR during exercise. β-blocker or calcium channel-blocker therapy is often noneffective or not well tolerated. The HR reduction on ivabradine is similar to β-blockers but in some patients its efficacy to resolve all IST-related symptoms is limited. The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy and safety of combining ivabradine with metoprolol succinate in patients with refractory highly symptomatic IST. Methods: Twenty patients (36 ± 10 years; 16 women) with IST were enrolled. All patients received metoprolol succinate 95 mg single dose during the first month of the study. After 4 weeks of treatment with metoprolol, ivabradine was administered as adjuvant therapy up to 7.5 mg twice daily. Holter monitoring and treadmill stress test were performed at baseline, after 4, and 8 weeks of the study, respectively. Results: We observed significant and similar reduction in resting HR both for metoprolol and for combined therapy compared to the baseline. The mean HR during daily activity was significantly lower on ivabradine and metoprolol compared to monotherapy with β-blocker. The combined treatment yielded a significant increase in exercise capacity as assessed by treadmill stress test. After 4 weeks of combined therapy a significant reduction in IST-related symptoms, measured by means of the European Heart Rhythm Association score, was observed. Conclusion: Combining ivabradine with metoprolol is an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for IST in patients with refractory to monotherapy.
The Dimensions of a Learning Organization Questionnaire (DLOQ)
Authors: Marsick Victoria J. 
Published: February 2013

The Problem Forces influencing organizations in the past decade profile the central role of organizational learning in ensuring sustainability and competitive advantage. The Dimensions of the Learning Organization Questionnaire (DLOQ) was developed in the 1990s to assess organizational learning culture. The DLOQ has since been used for organizational research in many countries, languages, and settings. This volume addresses questions about what research using the DLOQ says about diagnosing and/or improving organizational learning culture in different cultures and settings. The Solution This preface article overviews the development of the DLOQ in response to organizational changes and previews what is measured through the DLOQ. A brief overview of each contributing article is provided. The Stakeholders Scholars and practitioners focused on organizational learning culture will be interested in how research using the DLOQ has been used across cultures to intervene in organizations over the past decade in relation to selected measures of organizational efficiency or effectiveness.
Upper Extremity Bypass for Chronic Ischemia—A National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Study Database Study
Authors: Hughes Kakra , Cubangbang Maricel , Blackman Kwesi , Bolorunduro Oluwaseyi , Rose David A. , Cornwell Edward E. , Greene Wendy R. , Obisesan Thomas 
Published: February 2013

Objective: We undertook this study to determine the outcomes of upper extremity arterial reconstruction for chronic ischemia. Methods: The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database was queried to identify all patients who had undergone an upper extremity bypass for chronic ischemia between 2005 and 2007. Results: A total of 55 patients were identified in a primarily female population (71% women). Mean age was 57. The most common preoperative diagnoses included ischemia resulting from prior arterial thromboembolism in 16 (29%) patients and atherosclerotic upper extremity arterial disease in 11 (20%) patients. The most common procedures performed included axillo–brachial bypass in 17 (31%) patients, brachial–brachial bypass in 11 (20%) patients, and carotid–brachial bypass in 11 (20%) patients. There were no perioperative deaths and no acute graft failures. Conclusion: Although upper extremity bypass remains rare, the procedures appear to be safe with excellent 30-day results. Indications differ from those for lower extremity bypass.