bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association between Gc genotype and susceptibility to TB is dependent on vitamin D status
Authors: Martineau A. R. , Leandro A. C. C. S. , Anderson S. T. , Newton S. M. , Wilkinson K. A. , Nicol M. P. , Pienaar S. M. , Skolimowska K. H. , Rocha M. A. , Rolla V. C. , Levin M. , Davidson R. N. , Bremner S. A. , Griffiths C. J. , Eley B. S. , Bonecini-Almeida M. G. , Wilkinson R. J. 
Published: September 2009

Group-specific component (Gc) variants of vitamin D binding protein differ in their affinity for vitamin D metabolites that modulate antimycobacterial immunity. We conducted studies to determine whether Gc genotype associates with susceptibility to tuberculosis (TB).The following subjects were recruited into case–control studies: in the UK, 123 adult TB patients and 140 controls, all of Gujarati Asian ethnic origin; in Brazil, 130 adult TB patients and 78 controls; and in South Africa, 281 children with TB and 182 controls. Gc genotypes were determined and their frequency was compared between casesversuscontrols. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations were obtained retrospectively for 139 Gujarati Asians, and case-control analysis was stratified by vitamin D status. Interferon (IFN)-γ release assays were also performed on 36 Gujarati Asian TB contacts.The Gc2/2 genotype was strongly associated with susceptibility to active TB in Gujarati Asians, compared with Gc1/1 genotype (OR 2.81, 95% CI 1.19–6.66; p = 0.009). This association was preserved if serum 25(OH)D was <20 nmol·L−1(p = 0.01) but not if serum 25(OH)D was ≥20 nmol·L−1(p = 0.36).Carriage of the Gc2 allele was associated with increased PPD of tuberculin-stimulated IFN-γ release in Gujarati Asian TB contacts (p = 0.02). No association between Gc genotype and susceptibility to TB was observed in other ethnic groups studied.
Statins inhibit matrix metalloproteinase release from human lung fibroblasts
Authors: Kamio K. , Liu X. D. , Sugiura H. , Togo S. , Kawasaki S. , Wang X. , Ahn Y. , Hogaboam C. , Rennard S. I. 
Published: September 2009

Pleiotropic effects of statins have been reported to include inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) release from macrophages and endothelial cells. We evaluated whether statins would inhibit MMP release from human lung fibroblasts, which play a major role in remodelling processes.Monolayer and three-dimensional (3D) collagen gel cultures of fibroblasts were used. Cytokines (tumour necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1α) were used to induce MMP release and mRNA expression. Collagen degradation induced by cytokines and neutrophil elastase (NE) was evaluated by quantifying hydroxyproline. Atorvastatin inhibited MMP-1 and -3 release and mRNA expression in both culture systems. Similar results were obtained with simvastatin and fluvastatin.In 3D cultures where cytokines also stimulated MMP-9 release, atorvastatin also inhibited MMP-9 release. In 3D cultures, cytokines together with NE induced collagen degradation, which was also inhibited by atorvastatin. The effect of atorvastatin was reversed by mevalonate and geranylgeranyl-pyrophosphate but not by farnesyl-pyrophosphate.The current data suggest that statins may modulate remodelling processes mediated by fibroblasts by inhibiting MMP release.
Complications associated with transobturator sling procedures: analysis of 233 consecutive cases with a 27 months follow-up
Authors: Kaelin-Gambirasio Isabelle , Jacob Sandrine , Boulvain Michel , Dubuisson Jean-Bernard , Dällenbach Patrick 
Published: September 2009

Abstract

Backround
The transobturator tape procedure (TOT) is an effective surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence. However data concerning safety are rare, follow-up is often less than two years, and complications are probably underreported. The aim of this study was to describe early and late complications associated with TOT procedures and identify risk factors for erosions.

Methods
It was a 27 months follow-up of a cohort of 233 women who underwent TOT with three different types of slings (Aris®, Obtape®, TVT-O®). Follow-up information was available for 225 (96.6%) women.

Results
There were few per operative complications. Forty-eight women (21.3%) reported late complications including de novo or worsening of preexisting urgencies (10.2%), perineal pain (2.2%), de novo dyspareunia (9%), and vaginal erosion (7.6%). The risk of erosion significantly differed between the three types of slings and was 4%, 17% and 0% for Aris®, Obtape® and TVT-O® respectively (P = 0.001). The overall proportion of women satisfied by the procedure was 72.1%. The percentage of women satisfied was significantly lower in women who experienced erosion (29.4%) compared to women who did not (78.4%) (RR 0.14, 95% CI 0.05-0.38, P < 0.001).

Conclusion
Late post operative complications are relatively frequent after TOT and can impair patient's satisfaction. Women should be informed of these potential complications preoperatively and require careful follow-up after the procedure. Choice of the safest sling material is crucial as it is a risk factor for erosion.
A HIV-1 heterosexual transmission chain in Guangzhou, China: a molecular epidemiological study
Authors: Han Zhigang , Leung Tommy WC , Zhao Jinkou , Wang Ming , Fan Lirui , Li Kai , Pang Xinli , Liang Zhenbo , Lim Wilina WL , Xu Huifang 
Published: September 2009

Abstract

Background
We conducted molecular analyses to confirm four clustering HIV-1 infections (Patient A, B, C & D) in Guangzhou, China. These cases were identified by epidemiological investigation and suspected to acquire the infection through a common heterosexual transmission chain.

Methods

Env C2V3V4 region, gag p17/p24 junction and partial pol gene of HIV-1 genome from serum specimens of these infected cases were amplified by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and nucleotide sequenced.

Results
Phylogenetic analyses indicated that their viral nucleotide sequences were significantly clustered together (bootstrap value is 99%, 98% and 100% in env, gag and pol tree respectively). Evolutionary distance analysis indicated that their genetic diversities of env, gag and pol genes were significantly lower than non-clustered controls, as measured by unpaired t-test (env gene comparison: p < 0.005; gag gene comparison: p < 0.005; pol gene comparison: p < 0.005).

Conclusion
Epidemiological results and molecular analyses consistently illustrated these four cases represented a transmission chain which dispersed in the locality through heterosexual contact involving commercial sex worker.
Collagenofibrotic Glomerulopathy: Three Case Reports in Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Renata DR , Custódio Fabiano B , Guimarães Camila SO , Corrêa Rosana RM , Reis Marlene A 
Published: September 2009

Abstract

Background
We are reporting the first Collagenofibrotic Glomerulopathy (CG) in South America. So, this collagen type III glomerulopathy is not limited to Japan but may be found throughout the world.

Case Reports
We describe three patients that presented some factors in common, such as sex, age and the presence of non-nephrotic proteinuria associated with microscopic hematuria. The findings with the immunofluorescence microscopy, of immunoglobulins, and components of the complement were usually negative. The picrosyrius staining showed the presence of reddish material in the mesangium, when it was seen under standard microscopy; however, when it was seen with birefringence, it became greenish under polarized light, showed the collagen found in this area of the glomerulus. The identification of CG was made through electronic microscopic scanning, and curved and disorganized fibers were found.

Conclusion
These cases are the first from South America to be reported, and they are about an idiopathic renal disease that is not related to any specific races or locations. The reports contribute to a better understanding of this disease, which although not so prevalent, should be considered as an importantly differential diagnostic of cases of proteinuria.
Frontotemporal dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-associated disease protein TDP-43 promotes dendritic branching
Authors: Lu Yubing , Ferris Jacob , Gao Fen-Biao 
Published: September 2009

Abstract

Background
TDP-43 is an evolutionarily conserved RNA-binding protein implicated in the pathogenesis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD), sporadic and familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and possibly other neurodegenerative diseases. In diseased neurons, TDP-43 is depleted in the nucleus, suggesting a loss-of-function pathogenic mechanism. However, the normal function of TDP-43 in postmitotic neurons is largely unknown.

Results
Here we demonstrate that overexpression of Drosophila TDP-43 (dTDP-43) in vivo significantly increases dendritic branching of sensory neurons in Drosophila larvae. Loss of dTDP-43 function, either in a genetic null mutant or through RNAi knockdown, decreased dendritic branching. Further genetic analysis demonstrated a cell-autonomous role for dTDP-43 in dendrite formation. Moreover, human TDP-43 (hTDP-43) promoted dendritic branching in Drosophila neurons, and this function was attenuated by mutations associated with ALS.

Conclusion
These findings reveal an essential role for TDP-43 in dendritic structural integrity, supporting the notion that loss of normal TDP-43 function in diseased neurons may compromise neuronal connectivity before neuronal cell loss in FTD and ALS.
The role of gamma interferon in innate immunity in the zebrafish embryo
Authors: Sieger Dirk , Stein Cornelia , Neifer David , van der Sar Astrid M. , Leptin Maria 
Published: September 2009

SUMMARYThe zebrafish genome contains ten genes that encode class II cytokine-like peptides, of which the two that are related most closely to mammalian interferon gamma (IFN-γ) were named IFN-γ1 and IFN-γ2. Although the zebrafish has become a popular model system to study immune mechanisms, and although interferons are central regulators of immunity, which zebrafish cytokines correspond functionally to mammalian IFN-γ has not been established. We used zebrafish embryos to assay the functions of IFN-γ1 and IFN-γ2, and have identified a subset of zebrafish homologs of the mammalian IFN-responsive genes as IFN-γ targets in the zebrafish embryo: these genes are upregulated in response to raised levels of either IFN-γ1 or IFN-γ2. Infection studies using two different pathogens show that IFN-γ signalling is required for resistance against bacterial infections in the young embryo and that the levels of IFN-γ need to be regulated tightly: raising IFN-γ levels sensitizes fish embryos against bacterial infection. Embryos injected with high doses of Escherichia coli are able to clear the bacteria within a day, and the γ-interferons are necessary for this defence reaction. The protective response to Yersinia ruckeri, a natural fish pathogen that is lethal at low doses, also requires IFN-γ. As in the induction of target genes, the two interferons act at least partly redundantly. Together with the previously demonstrated type III interferon response, these results show that the counterparts of the mammalian viral and bacterial interferon-dependent defence functions are in place in zebrafish embryos, and suggest that zebrafish IFN-γ1 and IFN-γ2 are functionally equivalent to mammalian IFN-γ.
Laboratory Measurement of the Actual Tire-Pavement Contact Pressure Using a Static Test Device
Authors: Hu Xiaodi , Sun Lijun , Walubita Lubinda F. 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
It is well-known that the tire-pavement contact pressure (TPCP) is hardly circular or uniformly distributed as often assumed. In this study, using a simple but effective static test set-up, numerous actual TPCPs between a loaded wheel-tire and the surface of an asphalt-mix slab were measured in the laboratory. Various TPCP loading conditions were investigated, including varying the tire inflation pressures, varying the load levels, and using different tire types, different tire tread patterns, and tire ages. Analysis of the results indicated that a linear proportional relationship existed between the following variables: (a) Tire inflation pressure and TPCP, (b) load level and the effective tire-pavement contact area, and (c) load level and TPCP. At a fixed constant tire inflation pressure, an increment in the load level significantly impacted the tire edges compared to the middle zone, and at a constant wheel loading, an increase in the tire inflation pressure will result in possibly a 1.5 times increase in the TPCP. This is detrimental to pavements and is undesirable. Furthermore, the TPCP under new tires was observed to be closer to being uniformly distributed than that under the old tires. In other words, in terms of distresses, if all other factors are equal, an old tire will likely cause more damage to an asphalt pavement than a new tire.
Energy-Based Approach for Determining Flow Number
Authors: Bausano Jason , Williams R. Christopher 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
The Asphalt Mixture Performance Test (AMPT) is being used in research and is nearing completion to be adopted by highway agencies for evaluating the performance of asphalt concrete mixtures. The implementation of Superpave volumetric mixture design has occurred in nearly all state agencies in the United States. This implementation has been done mostly without an accompanying performance test. Researchers have been examining a number of candidate performance tests, and more recently a growing consensus is that a repeated, unconfined, and uniaxial loading test will become a part of the Superpave AMPT. This test will allow mixture designers to optimize binder content and aggregate structure by evaluating a mixture’s resistance to permanent deformation. The AMPT will allow contractors or state highway agencies to evaluate the performance of their mixtures in this test methodology. This paper examines an energy-based approach to determine flow number. The current method examines strain rate versus cycles, and the minimum point is the onset of tertiary flow and thus is defined as the flow number value. However, one low data point could result in a misleading flow number. Mathematically, it would be correct, but in practice it could be misleading in assessing the ability of a mixture to resist permanent deformation. The energy-based approach plots creep stiffness times cycles versus cycles and is able to identify a well-defined failure point. This well-defined point is defined as an energy-based flow number. It was found that this energy-based flow number can be 65–75 % greater than the current method for determining flow number.
Preliminary Evaluation of a Twist-Core Method for Estimating Concrete Strength
Authors: Mora-Ruacho José 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
The twist-core method is a technique for estimating in-place concrete strength. A preliminary study on the failure torque determined by this method and standard compressive strength for different strengths and two types of coarse aggregate was carried out. The results show that the equipment used was appropriate for producing quick results. A good torque-compressive strength correlation was observed. A theoretical torque-strength prediction model is presented and was observed as being unreliable for predicting concrete strength. Thus an experimental correlation is needed for specific materials. It was observed that torque-resistance is influenced by the type of aggregate used. The method could potentially be used for estimating in-place concrete strength.
SignalCAD: A Digital Signal Processing Software for Forced and Ambient Vibration Testing of Engineering Structures
Authors: Şahin Abdurrahman , Bayraktar Alemdar 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
Commercial tools for measurement and analysis of vibration signals have traditionally been very expensive. In the last decade, however, multi-channel measurement systems have become relatively inexpensive. The analysis functionality in most inexpensive instruments is limited. Therefore, many companies are using alternatives for post processing of measurement results. MATLAB is a platform that is popular for this purpose and which offers many advantages over dedicated menu driven systems. The open functions in MATLAB assure flexibility and the possibility to modify functions for specific needs. In this paper, the presentation and numerical applications of an interactive and comparative digital signal processing software developed in MATLAB by writers is described. The software is named as SignalCAD. For developing SignalCAD, about 120 new functions have been created and are used with MATLAB Signal Processing Toolbox functions. The SignalCAD program is a powerful tool that deals with processing raw measured data obtained from forced and ambient vibration testing of engineering structures. SignalCAD offers extensive functionalities for the visualization and processing of the measurement data and the determination and visualization of the spectral analysis results. The program disposes of a graphical user interface, which what makes it very intuitive and easy to handle. The most common spectral analysis techniques have been used in SignalCAD. The possibilities of the program are demonstrated with a three dimensional steel frame model vibration test and some results are compared with commercial PULSE signal analysis software.
Experimental Confirmation of Analytical Composition Routes in Three-Phase Partially Miscible Flow
Authors: LaForce T.. , Cinar Y.. , Johns R.T.. T. , Orr F.M.. M. 
Published: September 2009

SummaryIn this paper, effluent data from laboratory experiments are compared with analytical composition routes and profiles for three- phase partially miscible flow of three-component mixtures. Coreflood experiments were run in vertical glass bead packs to achieve approximately 1D displacements with stable displacement fronts. The displacements employed in this study include modest effects of dispersion, but dispersion does not substantially alter the composition routes.Analytical composition routes are developed by the method of characteristics (MOC) for 1D, dispersion-free flow where up to three flowing phases may be present. The exponents used in the relative permeability model were obtained by fitting profiles from one drainage (oil injection) and one imbibition (water/alcohol injection) displacement. The resulting parameters were used to construct the analytical solutions for the remaining displacements. Development of the analytical solutions to Riemann problems is outlined.Different parameters are obtained for the imbibition and drainage experiments, indicating that hysteresis occurs in the experiments. Comparison of the experimental results with the analytical solutions shows that the mathematical model captures the essential features of the experimental displacements. In the cases in which the analytical solutions fail to model accurately the physical displacements, the effects of simplifying assumptions in the model are examined.
An Intensive, Progressive Exercise Program Reduces Disability and Improves Functional Performance in Patients After Single-Level Lumbar Microdiskectomy
Authors: Kulig Kornelia , Beneck George J. , Selkowitz David M. , Popovich John M. , Ge Ting Ting , Flanagan Sean P. , Poppert Elizabeth M. , Yamada Kimiko A. , Powers Christopher M. , Azen Stan , Winstein Carolee J. , Gordon James , Samudrala Srinath , Chen Thomas C. , Shamie Arya Nick , Khoo Larry T. , Spoonamore Mark J. , Wang Jeffrey C. ,   Physical Therapy Clinical Research Network (PTClinResNet)
Published: September 2009

BackgroundRestoration of physical function following lumbar microdiskectomy may be influenced by the postoperative care provided.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a new interventional protocol to improve functional performance in patients who have undergone a single-level lumbar microdiskectomy.SettingThe study was conducted in physical therapy outpatient clinics.Design and ParticipantsNinety-eight participants (53 male, 45 female) who had undergone a single-level lumbar microdiskectomy were randomly allocated to receive education only or exercise and education.Intervention and MeasurementsThe exercise intervention consisted of a 12-week periodized program of back extensor strength (force-generating capacity) and endurance training and mat and upright therapeutic exercises. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and physical measures of functional performance were tested 4 to 6 weeks postsurgery and 12 weeks later, following completion of the intervention program. Because some participants sought physical therapy outside of the study, postintervention scores were analyzed for both an as-randomized (2-group) design and an as-treated (3-group) design.ResultsIn the 2-group analyses, exercise and education resulted in a greater reduction in ODI scores and a greater improvement in distance walked. In the 3-group analyses, post hoc comparisons showed a significantly greater reduction in ODI scores following exercise and education compared with the education-only and usual physical therapy groups.LimitationsThe limitations of this study include a lack of adherence to group assignment, disproportionate therapist contact time among treatment groups, and multiple use of univariate analyses.ConclusionsAn intensive, progressive exercise program combined with education reduces disability and improves function in patients who have undergone a single-level lumbar microdiskectomy.
Comparison of Gluteus Medius Muscle Electromyographic Activity During Forward and Lateral Step-up Exercises in Older Adults
Authors: Mercer Vicki Stemmons , Gross Michael T. , Sharma Subhashini , Weeks Erin 
Published: September 2009

Background
Step-up exercises often are suggested for strengthening the hip abductor muscles and improving balance in older adults. Little is known, however, about whether the forward or lateral version of these exercises is best for activating the hip abductor muscles.

Objective
The purpose of this study was to examine the electromyographic (EMG) amplitude of the gluteus medius (GM) muscles bilaterally during forward and lateral step-up exercises.

Design
The study design involved single-occasion repeated measures.

Methods
Twenty-seven community-dwelling adults (7 men and 20 women) with a mean (SD) age of 79.4 (8.0) years performed forward and lateral step-up exercises while the surface EMG activity of the GM muscles was recorded bilaterally. Pressure switches and dual forceplates were used to identify the ascent and descent phases. Subjects were instructed to lead with the right lower extremity during ascent and the left lower extremity during descent. Differences in normalized root-mean-square EMG amplitudes with exercise direction (forward versus lateral) and phase (ascent versus descent) were examined by use of separate repeated-measures analyses of variance for the right and left lower extremities. The alpha level was set at .05.

Results
Gluteus medius muscle EMG activity was significantly greater for lateral than for forward step-up exercises for the left lower extremity during the ascent phase and for both lower extremities during the descent phase. In addition, right GM muscle EMG activity was significantly greater during ascent than during descent for both exercise directions.

Limitations
Study limitations include use of a convenience sample and collection of limited information about participants.

Conclusions
Step-up exercises are effective in activating the GM muscle, with lateral step-up exercises requiring greater GM muscle activation than forward step-up exercises. Further study is needed to determine whether exercise programs for hip abductor muscle strengthening in older adults should preferentially include lateral over forward step-up exercises.