bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Is there an association between microbial exposure and food allergy? A systematic review
Authors: Marrs Tom , Bruce Kenneth D. , Logan Kirsty , Rivett Damian W. , Perkin Michael R. , Lack Gideon , Flohr Carsten 
Published: April 2013

AbstractThe environmental factors driving the recent increase in the prevalence of food allergy (FA) are unclear. Since associations have been demonstrated between microbial exposure and the likelihood of eczema and respiratory allergies, we reviewed the evidence for FA. Medline was systematically searched from inception to the end of July 2012 for studies investigating links between FA and environmental exposures, likely to influence microbial exposure, such as Caesarean delivery, family size, day‐care attendance, childhood infections, immunizations and antibiotic use. We selected studies reporting food challenge data, reported doctor‐diagnosed (RDD) FA and food sensitization. Methodological differences and study heterogeneity precluded meta‐analysis. A total of 46 studies were identified, of which 28 (60.9%) were prospective and 13 (28.3%) used food challenges to diagnose FA. Caesarean delivery was investigated in 13 studies, of which three infant cohorts demonstrated an increase in challenge‐proven FA (one cohort) and food sensitization (two cohorts), and one cross‐sectional study reported increased RDDFA. Four studies investigated the effect of having siblings, with one infant cohort demonstrating less challenge‐proven FA and a cross‐sectional study showing a decrease in RDDFA. Attending childcare before 6 months was associated with less challenge‐proven FA in one cohort. A cross‐sectional survey identified an inverse relationship between hepatitis A serology and peanut sensitization. One of eleven trials investigating probiotics demonstrated a quicker acquisition of milk tolerance amongst allergic infants. Factors influencing microbial exposure may be partly responsible for rising FA burden, but further prospective studies using double‐blind placebo controlled food challenges as an outcome are required.
Relationship between breast milk sCD14, TGF‐β1 and total IgA in the first month and development of eczema during infancy
Authors: Ismail Intan H. , Licciardi Paul V. , Oppedisano Frances , Boyle Robert J. , Tang Mimi L. K. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractIntroductionThe overall beneficial effects of breastfeeding for infants have been well documented, but its role in allergy prevention is controversial.ObjectiveWe investigated the relationship between breast milk immunomodulatory factors and subsequent development of eczema and atopic sensitization in the first year of life.MethodsDay 7 and 28 breast milk samples were collected from mothers carrying infants at high risk of allergic disease. Aqueous‐phase breast milk samples were assayed for TGF‐β1, sCD14 and total IgA. Infants were assessed for the presence of eczema and atopic sensitization at 12 months of age. The levels of breast milk TGF‐β1, sCD14 and total IgA were compared in infants who subsequently developed eczema and sensitization in the first year and those who did not.ResultsThe levels of breast milk sCD14, total IgA, and TGF‐β1 at either day 7 or 28 were not associated with subsequent development of eczema or atopic sensitization during the first year of life.ConclusionLevels of breast milk immune parameters were not associated with eczema outcomes or sensitization in infants at 12 months. This suggests that apparent immunological effects on breast milk immunomodulatory factors may not necessarily lead to clinical benefits, and these immune markers may not be critical determinants of allergic disease in infancy.
Rhythmic Control of the ARF-MDM2 Pathway by ATF4 Underlies Circadian Accumulation of p53 in Malignant Cells
Authors: Horiguchi Michiko , Koyanagi Satoru , Hamdan Ahmed M. , Kakimoto Keisuke , Matsunaga Naoya , Yamashita Chikamasa , Ohdo Shigehiro 
Published: April 2013

Abstract
The sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents varies according to circadian time. Most chemotherapeutic agents ultimately cause cell death through cell-intrinsic pathways as an indirect consequence of DNA damage. The p53 tumor suppressor gene (TRP53) configures the cell deaths induced by chemotherapeutic agents. In this study, we show that the transcription factor ATF4, a component of the mammalian circadian clock, functions in circadian accumulation of p53 protein in tumor cells. In murine fibroblast tumor cells, ATF4 induced the circadian expression of p19ARF (Cdkn2a). Oscillation of p19ARF interacted in a time-dependent manner with MDM2, a specific ubiquitin ligase of p53, resulting in a rhythmic prevention of its degradation by MDM2. Consequently, the half-life of p53 protein varied in a circadian time-dependent manner without variation in mRNA levels. The p53 protein accumulated during those times when the p19ARF–MDM2 interaction was facilitated. Notably, the ability of the p53 degradation inhibitor nutlin-3 to kill murine fibroblast tumor cells was enhanced when the drug was administered at those times of day during which p53 had accumulated. Taken together, these results suggested that ATF4-mediated regulation of the p19ARF–MDM2 pathway underlies the circadian accumulation of p53 protein in malignant cells. Furthermore, they suggest an explanation for how the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents is enhanced at those times of day when p53 protein has accumulated, as a result of circadian processes controlled by ATF4. Cancer Res; 73(8); 2639–49. ©2013 AACR.
Menin Epigenetically Represses Hedgehog Signaling in MEN1 Tumor Syndrome
Authors: Gurung Buddha , Feng Zijie , Iwamoto Daniel V. , Thiel Austin , Jin Guanghui , Fan Chen-Min , Ng Jessica M.Y. , Curran Tom , Hua Xianxin 
Published: April 2013

Abstract
Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) is an inherited tumor syndrome that includes susceptibility to pancreatic islet tumors. This syndrome results from mutations in the MEN1 gene, encoding menin. Although menin acts as an oncogenic cofactor for mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) fusion protein–mediated histone H3 lysine 4 methylation, the precise basis for how menin suppresses gene expression and proliferation of pancreatic beta cells remains poorly understood. Here, we show that menin ablation enhances Hedgehog signaling, a proproliferative and oncogenic pathway, in murine pancreatic islets. Menin directly interacts with protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5), a negative regulator of gene transcription. Menin recruits PRMT5 to the promoter of the Gas1 gene, a crucial factor for binding of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) ligand to its receptor PTCH1 and subsequent activation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway, increases repressive histone arginine symmetric dimethylation (H4R3m2s), and suppresses Gas1 expression. Notably, MEN1 disease-related menin mutants have reduced binding to PRMT5, and fail to impart the repressive H4R3m2s mark at the Gas1 promoter, resulting in its elevated expression. Pharmacologic inhibition of Hedgehog signaling significantly reduces proliferation of insulinoma cells, and expression of Hedgehog signaling targets including Ptch1, in MEN1 tumors of mice. These findings uncover a novel link between menin and Hedgehog signaling whereby menin/PRMT5 epigenetically suppresses Hedgehog signaling, revealing it as a target for treating MEN1 tumors. Cancer Res; 73(8); 2650–8. ©2013 AACR.
Tumor-Specific Cytotoxic T Cells Are Crucial for Efficacy of Immunomodulatory Antibodies in Patients with Lung Cancer
Authors: Aerts Joachim G. , Hegmans Joost P. 
Published: April 2013

Abstract
There is growing evidence that activation of the immune system may be an effective treatment for patients with either small cell lung cancer or non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Immunomodulatory antibodies directed against cytotoxic T cell–associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4/CD152) and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PDL1/CD274) showed clinical efficacy in patients with lung cancer. The key immune cells responsible for antitumor activity are the CTLs. The presence of these tumor-directed CTLs, both in number and functionality, is a prerequisite for the immune system to attack cancer cells. Immunomodulatory agents attempt to increase the efficacy of CTL activity. Thus, the limited number of patients who benefit from immunomodulatory antibodies may be caused by either an inadequate number or the impairment of CTL activity by the hostile environment created by the tumor. In this review, we discuss tumor-induced impairment of CTLs and experimental treatments that can stimulate T-cell responses and optimize specific CTL function. We discuss 2 types of immune cells with known suppressive capacity on CTLs that are of pivotal importance in patients with lung cancer: regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Cancer Res; 73(8); 2381–8. ©2013 AACR.
Should journalists be ‘virtuous’? Mainstream news, complex media organisations and the work of Nick Couldry
Authors: Wright Kate 
Published: April 2013

Critical debates about whether it is possible to formulate a ‘global media ethics’ have now become pressing given the increasing blurriness between some kinds of media practices, the transnational implications of the News International phone-hacking scandal, and the existence of a range of serious transnational problems, such as conflict, climate change and the recent global economic crisis. This article attempts to question Couldry’s recent assertion that the neo-Aristotelian virtues of ‘accuracy, sincerity and care’ can and should provide the normative foundation for all forms of media ethics. To do this, I draw on my own experiences, as well as those of other journalists to argue that prescriptive, rule-based approaches are necessary to cope with the organisational complexity involved in some kinds of news organisations. I then outline the concerns I have about Couldry’s ability to construct a model of ‘good’ media practice on ‘minimally normative premises’, before proposing an alternative, utilitarian approach based on the work of Elliott, Sen and Hare.
Phylostratigraphic profiles reveal a deep evolutionary history of the vertebrate head sensory systems
Authors: Šestak Martin Sebastijan , Božičević Vedran , Bakarić Robert , Dunjko Vedran , Domazet-Lošo Tomislav 
Published: April 2013

AbstractBackgroundThe vertebrate head is a highly derived trait with a heavy concentration of sophisticated sensory organs that allow complex behaviour in this lineage. The head sensory structures arise during vertebrate development from cranial placodes and the neural crest. It is generally thought that derivatives of these ectodermal embryonic tissues played a central role in the evolutionary transition at the onset of vertebrates. Despite the obvious importance of head sensory organs for vertebrate biology, their evolutionary history is still uncertain.ResultsTo give a fresh perspective on the adaptive history of the vertebrate head sensory organs, we applied genomic phylostratigraphy to large-scalein situexpression data of the developing zebrafishDanio rerio. Contrary to traditional predictions, we found that dominant adaptive signals in the analyzed sensory structures largely precede the evolutionary advent of vertebrates. The leading adaptive signals at the bilaterian-chordate transition suggested that the visual system was the first sensory structure to evolve. The olfactory, vestibuloauditory, and lateral line sensory organs displayed a strong link with the urochordate-vertebrate ancestor. The only structures that qualified as genuine vertebrate innovations were the neural crest derivatives, trigeminal ganglion and adenohypophysis. We also found evidence that the cranial placodes evolved before the neural crest despite their proposed embryological relatedness.ConclusionsTaken together, our findings reveal pre-vertebrate roots and a stepwise adaptive history of the vertebrate sensory systems. This study also underscores that large genomic and expression datasets are rich sources of macroevolutionary information that can be recovered by phylostratigraphic mining.
Unilateral versus bilateral robot-assisted rehabilitation on arm-trunk control and functions post stroke: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wu Ching-yi , Yang Chieh-ling , Chen Ming-de , Lin Keh-chung , Wu Li-ling 
Published: April 2013

Abstract

Background
Although the effects of robot-assisted arm training after stroke are promising, the relative effects of unilateral (URT) vs. bilateral (BRT) robot-assisted arm training remain uncertain. This study compared the effects of URT vs. BRT on upper extremity (UE) control, trunk compensation, and function in patients with chronic stroke.

Method
This was a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial. The intervention was implemented at 4 hospitals. Fifty-three patients with stroke were randomly assigned to URT, BRT, or control treatment (CT). Each group received UE training for 90 to 105 min/day, 5 days/week, for 4 weeks. The kinematic variables for arm motor control and trunk compensation included normalized movement time, normalized movement units, and the arm-trunk contribution slope in unilateral and bilateral tasks. Motor function and daily function were measured by the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), Motor Activity Log (MAL), and ABILHAND Questionnaire.

Results
The BRT and CT groups elicited significantly larger slope values (i.e., less trunk compensation) at the start of bilateral reaching than the URT group. URT led to significantly better effects on WMFT-Time than BRT. Differences in arm control kinematics and performance on the MAL and ABILHAND among the 3 groups were not significant.

Conclusions
BRT and URT resulted in differential improvements in specific UE/trunk performance in patients with stroke. BRT elicited larger benefits than URT on reducing compensatory trunk movements at the beginning of reaching. In contrast, URT produced better improvements in UE temporal efficiency. These relative effects on movement kinematics, however, did not translate into differential benefits in daily functions.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00917605.
Herd specific risk factors for Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infections in suckling pigs at the age of weaning
Authors: Nathues Heiko , Woeste Henrike , Doehring Stefanie , Fahrion Anna S , Doherr Marcus G , Beilage Elisabeth grosse 
Published: April 2013

Abstract

Background

Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae is the etiologic agent of enzootic pneumonia mainly occurring in fattening pigs. It is assumed that horizontal transmission of the pathogen during nursery and growing phase starts with few suckling pigs vertically infected by the sow. The aim of the present study was the exploration of the herd prevalence of M. hyopneumoniae infections in suckling pigs followed by an investigation of various herd specific factors for their potential of influencing the occurrence of this pathogen at the age of weaning.

Results
In this cross-sectional study, 125 breeding herds were examined by taking nasal swabs from 20 suckling pigs in each herd. In total, 3.9% (98/2500) of all nasal swabs were tested positive for M. hyopneumoniae by real-time PCR. Piglets tested positive originated from 46 different herds resulting in an overall herd prevalence of 36.8% (46/125) for M. hyopneumoniae infection in pigs at the age of weaning. While the herds were epidemiologically characterized, the risk for demonstration of M. hyopneumoniae was significantly increased, when the number of purchased gilts per year was more than 120 (OR: 5.8), and when the number of farrowing pens per compartment was higher than 16 (OR: 3.3). In herds with a planned and segregated production, where groups of sows entered previously emptied farrowing units, the risk for demonstration of M. hyopneumoniae in piglets was higher in herds with two or four weeks between batches than in herds with one or three weeks between batches (OR: 2.7).

Conclusions
In this cross-sectional study, several risk factors could be identified enhancing the probability of breeding herds to raise suckling pigs already infected with M. hyopneumoniae at the time of weaning. Interestingly, some factors (farrowing rhythm, gilt acclimatisation issues) were overlapping with those also influencing the seroprevalences among sows or the transmission of the pathogen between older age groups. Taking the multifactorial character of enzootic pneumonia into account, the results of this study substantiate that a comprehensive herd specific prevention programme is a prerequisite to reduce transmission of and disease caused by M. hyopneumoniae.
High Pressure-Lightweight Blended Slurry System: A Solution for Low Fracture Gradient and Deep Reservoir Cementation Challenges
Authors: Salehpour _ , Ahmad Amir , Zaffaryab _ , Ishtiaq S. Ali 
Published: April 2013

ABSTRACT
Successful cementation of low fracture gradient reservoir sections poses its own challenges for the operators. Such cement systems shall be competent enough to endure the stresses being imposed throughout the life cycle of the well ( cycles of pressure and temperature changes imposed by perforations, well testing, work-over operations and etc.) and at the same the existence of relatively low fracture gradients formations will limit the upper range density of such systems.
Blended light weight cement systems by adopting a new approach to designing cement slurries effectively decouple the physical properties of set cement from the slurry properties and density, resulting in high performance lightweight cement slurries. Conventional blends have some components with limited pressure rating that will collapse trader high pressure and therefore the slurry properties can change dramatically to the point where the cementing job objectives can be jeopardized. The before mentioned challenge becomes more evident when the case is related to the cementation of a deep and low fracture gradient reservoir section.
Rajian oil field in north of Pakistan have been put into regular production since 1994 with reservoir section total depths of 3850 m ( +/ -). Recent development wells required the operator to use light weight cement where conventional light weight blended solution could not be utilized due to the excessive down-hole pressures those system would be subjected to during the cementation operations.
This paper will briefly review the existing methods to achieve light weight cement slurry and will focus on the high-pressure light-weight blended slurry system through a case study in Rajian field.
Internet Psycho-Education Programs Improve Outcomes in Youth With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Grey Margaret , Whittemore Robin , Jeon Sangchoon , Murphy Kathryn , Faulkner Melissa S. , Delamater Alan ,   for the TeenCope Study Group
Published: April 2013

OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of two Internet-based psycho-educational programs designed to improve outcomes for youth with type 1 diabetes transitioning to adolescence.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
The study was a multisite clinical trial of 320 youth (aged 11–14 years; 37% minority; 55% female) randomized to one of two Internet-based interventions: TeenCope or Managing Diabetes. Primary outcomes were HbA1c and quality of life (QOL). Secondary outcomes included coping, self-efficacy, social competence, self-management, and family conflict. Data were collected at baseline and after 3, 6, and 12 months online. Youth were invited to cross over to the other program after 12 months, and follow-up data were collected at 18 months. Analyses were based on mixed models using intent-to-treat and per-protocol procedures.

RESULTS
Youth in both groups had stable QOL and minimal increases in HbA1c levels over 12 months, but there were no significant differences between the groups in primary outcomes. After 18 months, youth who completed both programs had lower HbA1c (P = 0.04); higher QOL (P = 0.02), social acceptance (P = 0.01), and self-efficacy (P = 0.03) and lower perceived stress (P = 0.02) and diabetes family conflict (P = 0.02) compared with those who completed only one program.

CONCLUSIONS
Internet interventions for youth with type 1 diabetes transitioning to adolescence result in improved outcomes, but completion of both programs was better than only one, suggesting that these youth need both diabetes management education and behavioral interventions. Delivering these programs via the Internet represents an efficient way to reach youth and improve outcomes.
Reproducibility and Validity of the 10-Meter Shuttle Ride Test in Wheelchair-Using Children and Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Verschuren Olaf , Zwinkels Maremka , Ketelaar Marjolijn , Reijnders-van Son Femke , Takken Tim 
Published: April 2013

BackgroundFor children with cerebral palsy (CP) who are able to walk or run, the 10-m shuttle run test is currently the test of choice to assess cardiorespiratory fitness. This test, however, has not yet been examined in wheelchair-using youth with CP.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to investigate the test-retest reproducibility and validity of the 10-m shuttle ride test (SRiT) in youth with CP.DesignRepeated measurements of the SRiT were obtained.MethodsTwenty-three individuals with spastic CP (18 boys, 5 girls; mean age=13.3 years, SD=3.6 years) using a manual wheelchair for at least part of the day participated in this study. During the study, all participants performed one graded arm exercise test (GAET) and 2 identical SRiTs within 2 weeks. Peak oxygen uptake (V̇o2peak), peak heart rate (HRpeak), and respiratory exchange ratio (RER) were recorded. Intraclass correlation coefficients (2,1), the smallest detectable difference, and the limits of agreement (LOA) were calculated. The association between the results of the SRiT and GAET was tested using Pearson correlation coefficients.ResultsIntraclass correlation coefficients (.99, 95% confidence interval=.98–1.00) for all variables indicated highly acceptable reproducibility. The LOA analysis revealed satisfactory levels of agreement. The SRiT variables demonstrated strong, significant positive correlations for V̇o2peak values obtained during the SRiT and the GAET (r=.84, P&lt;.01).LimitationsAlthough the GAET is considered the gold standard, the cardiorespiratory demand during the GAET was significantly lower compared with during the SRiT. Future studies should determine whether the GAET can still be accepted as the gold standard for upper-extremity exercise.ConclusionsThe SRiT is a reproducible and valid test for measuring cardiorespiratory fitness in youth with spastic CP who self-propel a manual wheelchair.