bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gay Rights in Israel: A New Era?
Authors: Harel Alon 
Published: October 2011

A recent Israeli case in which a steward sued El-Al (the Israeli Airline) in order to extend benefits to his same-sex partner was the first case in which the Israeli Supreme Court confronted the rights of sexual minorities. This confrontation was inevitable given the rapid legal changes in the legal status of sexual minorities in Israel. These changes include the decriminalization of male homosexual intercourse in 1988, the 1992 amendment of the Equal Employment Opportunity Act—a statute which, in its amended version, prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation as well as less visible but equally important legal changes. This article explores the prospects of the legal protection of gays and lesbians in light of these developments. It describes the legal changes that have taken place in recent years—changes which strengthen the protection of sexual minorities. It analyzes the opinions in the Supreme Court's El-Al case and evaluates the potential for exploiting the decision to expand sexual minority rights. It also specifies the areas where further legal changes are needed and evaluates the prospects of whether such changes (both statutory and judicial) will indeed take place given the variety of constraints and pressures on Israeli judges as well as on the legislature.
Predicting gene ontology from a global meta-analysis of 1-color microarray experiments
Authors: Dozmorov Mikhail G , Giles Cory B , Wren Jonathan D 
Published: October 2011

Abstract

Background
Global meta-analysis (GMA) of microarray data to identify genes with highly similar co-expression profiles is emerging as an accurate method to predict gene function and phenotype, even in the absence of published data on the gene(s) being analyzed. With a third of human genes still uncharacterized, this approach is a promising way to direct experiments and rapidly understand the biological roles of genes. To predict function for genes of interest, GMA relies on a guilt-by-association approach to identify sets of genes with known functions that are consistently co-expressed with it across different experimental conditions, suggesting coordinated regulation for a specific biological purpose. Our goal here is to define how sample, dataset size and ranking parameters affect prediction performance.

Results
13,000 human 1-color microarrays were downloaded from GEO for GMA analysis. Prediction performance was benchmarked by calculating the distance within the Gene Ontology (GO) tree between predicted function and annotated function for sets of 100 randomly selected genes. We find the number of new predicted functions rises as more datasets are added, but begins to saturate at a sample size of approximately 2,000 experiments. For the gene set used to predict function, we find precision to be higher with smaller set sizes, yet with correspondingly poor recall and, as set size is increased, recall and F-measure also tend to increase but at the cost of precision.

Conclusions
Of the 20,813 genes expressed in 50 or more experiments, at least one predicted GO category was found for 72.5% of them. Of the 5,720 genes without GO annotation, 4,189 had at least one predicted ontology using top 40 co-expressed genes for prediction analysis. For the remaining 1,531 genes without GO predictions or annotations, ~17% (257 genes) had sufficient co-expression data yet no statistically significantly overrepresented ontologies, suggesting their regulation may be more complex.
Cell dedifferentiation and epithelial to mesenchymal transitions during intestinal regeneration in H. glaberrima
Authors: García-Arrarás José E , Valentín-Tirado Griselle , Flores Jaime E , Rosa Rey J , Rivera-Cruz Angélica , San Miguel-Ruiz José E , Tossas Karen 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
Background
Determining the type and source of cells involved in regenerative processes has been one of the most important goals of researchers in the field of regeneration biology. We have previously used several cellular markers to characterize the cells involved in the regeneration of the intestine in the sea cucumber Holothuria glaberrima.

Results
We have now obtained a monoclonal antibody that labels the mesothelium; the outer layer of the gut wall composed of peritoneocytes and myocytes. Using this antibody we studied the role of this tissue layer in the early stages of intestinal regeneration. We have now shown that the mesothelial cells of the mesentery, specifically the muscle component, undergo dedifferentiation from very early on in the regeneration process. Cell proliferation, on the other hand, increases much later, and mainly takes place in the mesothelium or coelomic epithelium of the regenerating intestinal rudiment. Moreover, we have found that the formation of the intestinal rudiment involves a novel regenerative mechanism where epithelial cells ingress into the connective tissue and acquire mesenchymal phenotypes.

Conclusions
Our results strongly suggest that the dedifferentiating mesothelium provides the initial source of cells for the formation of the intestinal rudiment. At later stages, cell proliferation supplies additional cells necessary for the increase in size of the regenerate. Our data also shows that the mechanism of epithelial to mesenchymal transition provides many of the connective tissue cells found in the regenerating intestine. These results present some new and important information as to the cellular basis of organ regeneration and in particular to the process of regeneration of visceral organs.
The 'help' question doesn't help when screening for major depression: external validation of the three-question screening test for primary care patients managed for physical complaints
Authors: Lombardo Patrick , Vaucher Paul , Haftgoli Nader , Burnand Bernard , Favrat Bernard , Verdon François , Bischoff Thomas , Herzig Lilli 
Published: October 2011

Abstract

Background
Major depression, although frequent in primary care, is commonly hidden behind multiple physical complaints that are often the first and only reason for patient consultation. Major depression can be screened by two validated questions that are easier to use in primary care than the full Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV) criteria. A third question, called the 'help' question, improves the specificity without apparently decreasing the sensitivity of this screening procedure. We validated the abbreviated screening procedure for major depression with and without the 'help' question in primary care patients managed for a physical complaint.

Methods
This diagnostic accuracy study used data from the SODA (for 'SOmatisation Depression Anxiety') cohort study conducted by 24 general practitioners (GPs) in western Switzerland that included patients over 18 years of age with at least a single physical complaint at index consultation. Major depression was identified with the full Patient Health Questionnaire. GPs were asked to screen patients for major depression with the three screening questions 1 year after inclusion.

Results
Of 937 patients with at least a single physical complaint, 751 were eligible 1 year after index consultation. Major depression was diagnosed in 69/724 (9.5%) patients. The sensitivity and specificity of the two-question method alone were 91.3% (95% CI 81.4 to 96.4) and 65.0% (95% CI 61.2 to 68.6), respectively. Adding the 'help' question decreased the sensitivity (59.4%; 95% CI 47.0 to 70.9) but improved the specificity (88.2%; 95% CI 85.4 to 90.5) of the three-question method.

Conclusions
The use of two screening questions for major depression was associated with high sensitivity and low specificity in primary care patients presenting a physical complaint. Adding the 'help' question improved the specificity but clearly decreased the sensitivity; when using the 'help' question, four out of ten patients with depression will be missed, compared to only one out of ten with the two-question method. Therefore, the 'help' question is not useful as a screening question, but may help discussing management strategies.
Four variants in transferrin and HFE genes as potential markers of iron deficiency anaemia risk: an association study in menstruating women
Authors: Blanco-Rojo Ruth , Baeza-Richer Carlos , López-Parra Ana M , Pérez-Granados Ana M , Brichs Anna , Bertoncini Stefania , Buil Alfonso , Arroyo-Pardo Eduardo , Soria Jose M , Vaquero M Pilar 
Published: October 2011

Abstract

Background
Iron deficiency anaemia is a worldwide health problem in which environmental, physiologic and genetic factors play important roles. The associations between iron status biomarkers and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) known to be related to iron metabolism were studied in menstruating women.

Methods
A group of 270 Caucasian menstruating women, a population group at risk of iron deficiency anaemia, participated in the study. Haematological and biochemical parameters were analysed and 10 selected SNPs were genotyped by minisequencing assay. The associations between genetic and biochemical data were analysed by Bayesian Model Averaging (BMA) test and decision trees. Dietary intake of a representative subgroup of these volunteers (n = 141) was assessed, and the relationship between nutrients and iron biomarkers was also determined by linear regression.

Results
Four variants, two in the transferrin gene (rs3811647, rs1799852) and two in the HFE gene (C282Y, H63D), explain 35% of the genetic variation or heritability of serum transferrin in menstruating women. The minor allele of rs3811647 was associated with higher serum transferrin levels and lower transferrin saturation, while the minor alleles of rs1799852 and the C282Y and H63D mutations of HFE were associated with lower serum transferrin levels. No association between nutrient intake and iron biomarkers was found.

Conclusions
In contrast to dietary intake, these four SNPs are strongly associated with serum transferrin. Carriers of the minor allele of rs3811647 present a reduction in iron transport to tissues, which might indicate higher iron deficiency anaemia risk, although the simultaneous presence of the minor allele of rs1799852 and HFE mutations appear to have compensatory effects. Therefore, it is suggested that these genetic variants might potentially be used as markers of iron deficiency anaemia risk.
A tiling microarray for global analysis of chloroplast genome expression in cucumber and other plants
Authors: Żmieńko Agnieszka , Guzowska-Nowowiejska Magdalena , Urbaniak Radosław , Pląder Wojciech , Formanowicz Piotr , Figlerowicz Marek 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
Plastids are small organelles equipped with their own genomes (plastomes). Although these organelles are involved in numerous plant metabolic pathways, current knowledge about the transcriptional activity of plastomes is limited. To solve this problem, we constructed a plastid tiling microarray (PlasTi-microarray) consisting of 1629 oligonucleotide probes. The oligonucleotides were designed based on the cucumber chloroplast genomic sequence and targeted both strands of the plastome in a non-contiguous arrangement. Up to 4 specific probes were designed for each gene/exon, and the intergenic regions were covered regularly, with 70-nt intervals. We also developed a protocol for direct chemical labeling and hybridization of as little as 2 micrograms of chloroplast RNA. We used this protocol for profiling the expression of the cucumber chloroplast plastome on the PlasTi-microarray. Owing to the high sequence similarity of plant plastomes, the newly constructed microarray can be used to study plants other than cucumber. Comparative hybridization of chloroplast transcriptomes from cucumber, Arabidopsis, tomato and spinach showed that the PlasTi-microarray is highly versatile.
Allergic diseases in the elderly
Authors: Cardona Victoria , Guilarte Mar , Luengo Olga , Labrador‐Horrillo Moises , Sala‐Cunill Anna , Garriga Teresa 
Published: October 2011

AbstractDemographic distribution of the population is progressively changing with the proportion of elderly persons increasing in most societies. This entails that there is a need to evaluate the impact of common diseases, such as asthma and other allergic conditions, in this age segment. Frailty, comorbidities and polymedication are some of the factors that condition management in geriatric patients. The objective of this review is to highlight the characteristics of allergic diseases in older age groups, from the influence of immunosenescence, to particular clinical implications and management issues, such as drug interactions or age‐related side effects.
A comparison of the results of arterial embolization for bleeding and non-bleeding gastroduodenal ulcers
Authors: Loffroy Romaric , Lin MingDe , Thompson Carol , Harsha Amith , Rao Pramod 
Published: October 2011

Background Although some authors have advocated the practice of arterial embolization for angiographically negative acute hemorrhage from gastroduodenal ulcers, this technique remains controversial. Purpose To compare the results of arterial embolization for bleeding (BU) and non-bleeding (NBU) gastroduodenal ulcers. Material and Methods Transcatheter embolization was performed in 57 patients (39 men, 18 women, mean age 69.8 years) who experienced acute bleeding from gastroduodenal ulcers. At the time of embolization active contrast extravasation was seen in 36 of 57 patients, while in the remaining 21 patients embolization was based on endoscopic findings. Patient demographics, clinical success, need for re-intervention secondary to re-bleeding, and 30-day complication and mortality rates were reviewed and compared between the two groups by using statistical analyses. Results In the BU group, the gastroduodenal artery (GDA) was embolized in 31 patients (86.1%), the left gastric artery (LGA) in three patients (8.3%), and the left gastroepiploic artery (LGEA) in two patients (5.6%). In the NBU group, the GDA was embolized in 18 patients (85.7%), and the LGA in three patients (14.3%). Clinical success (61.9 vs. 75.0%, P = 0.30), need for re-intervention (38.1 vs. 27.8%, P = 0.42), and 30-day complication (9.5 vs. 5.6%, P = 0.57), and mortality (28.6 vs. 25%, P = 0.77) rates were not statistically different between the two groups. Embolization in patients in NBU group did not have impact on clinical success (OR, 0.54; 95%CI, 0.17–1.72; P = 0.30). Conclusion Arterial embolization in patients with angiographically NBU is as safe and effective as embolization in patients with BU.
Effective smoking cessation interventions for COPD patients: a review of the evidence
Authors: Coronini-Cronberg Sophie , Heffernan Catherine , Robinson Michael 
Published: October 2011

Objectives To review the effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions offered to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients, and identify barriers to quitting experienced by them, so that a more effective service can be developed for this group. Design A rapid systematic literature review comprising computerized searches of electronic databases, hand searches and snowballing were used to identify both published and grey literature. Setting A review of studies undertaken in north-western Europe (defined as: United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, Benelux and Nordic countries). Participants COPD patients participating in studies looking at the effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions in this patient group, or exploring the barriers to quitting experienced by these patients. Method Quantitative and qualitative papers were selected according to pre-specified inclusion and exclusion criteria, critically appraised, and quantitative papers scored against the NICE Levels of Evidence standardized hierarchy. Main outcome measure Percentages of successful quitters and length of quit, assessed by self-report or biochemical analysis. Among qualitative studies, identified barriers to smoking cessation had to be explored. Results Three qualitative and 13 quantitative papers were finally selected. Effective interventions and barriers to smoking cessation were identified. Pharmacological support with Buproprion combined with counselling was significantly more efficacious in achieving prolonged abstinence than a placebo by 18.9% (95% CI 3.6–26.4%). Annual spirometry with a brief smoking cessation intervention, followed by a personal letter from a doctor, had a significantly higher ≥1 year abstinence rate at three years among COPD patient smokers, compared to smokers with normal lung function ( P < 0.001; z = 3.93). Identified barriers to cessation included: patient misinformation, levels of motivation, health beliefs, and poor communication with health professionals. Conclusion Despite the public health significance of COPD, there is a lack of high-quality evidence showing which smoking cessation support methods work for these patients. This review describes three effective interventions, as well as predictors of quitting success that service providers could use to improve quit rates in this group. Areas that would benefit from urgent further research are also identified.
Gender- and obesity-specific effect of apolipoprotein C3 gene (APOC3) –482C>T polymorphism on triglyceride concentration in Turkish adults
Authors: Coban Neslihan , Onat Altan , Guclu-Geyik Filiz , Komurcu-Bayrak Evrim , Sansoy Vedat , Hergenc Gulay , Can Günay , Erginel-Unaltuna Nihan 
Published: October 2011

AbstractApolipoprotein C3 (Randomly selected 1548 individuals (757 male and 791 female, mean age 49.9±11.8 years) were genotyped for –482C>T polymorphism using hybridization probes in a Real-Time PCR LC480 device.The –482TT genotype prevailed 9.9% in men and 11.5% in women. Association between 482C>T polymorphism and dyslipidemia (p=0.036, OR=1.42, 95%Cl=1.02–1.97) was found only in men. Analysis of variance showed that anthropometric and metabolic variables were not differently distributed in
Injection molding of conductor paths: integration of functionality by the use of a metal/thermoplastic hybrid material
Authors: Michaeli Walter , Hopmann Christian , Fragner Jan , Pfefferkorn Tobias 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
This article deals with the further processing of a compounded metal/thermoplastic hybrid material through injection molding. By synergistically combining two fillers, short copper fibers and a low melting alloy, in a thermoplastic matrix, it is possible to achieve extremely high electrical conductivities comparable to those of steel. At the same time, it is possible to manufacture complex parts directly using (multi-component) injection molding. The filling and solidification behavior of this highly filled material is significantly changed due to the amount of metal. The maximum flow lengths and the resulting electrical properties of the compound are investigated based on small conductor paths in 2C injection molding. Constant high mold temperatures significantly improve the maximum flow length of conductor paths without having any significant effects on electrical conductivity. With an additional dynamic mold tempering, using an external inductive heating system, the flow ability can be further improved within the injection molding process.
Optimizing a Wind Turbine Oil Condition Monitoring Program
Authors: Livingstone Greg J. , Ameye Jo , Wooton Dave 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
The logistics and expense of obtaining oil samples from wind farms are among the conditions that make it challenging to establish a valuable condition monitoring program. Optimizing the oil condition monitoring program for a wind turbine is a critical step towards achieving forecasted ROI for the wind farm. To advance the current oil condition monitoring practices for most wind turbines, 150 identical wind turbine systems in the field for up to four years were studied. Several oil analysis tests were performed to understand the depletion of additives and changes in fluid chemistry. Basic statistical analysis was obtained on the data set to identify correlations in the data. The result of the analysis was a better understanding of the wind turbine oil’s formulation and the relationship to fluid degradation and gearbox condition. The statistical methodology that we performed can be applied to other wind turbine farms to improve the knowledge derived from their oil analysis tests, both for gear as well hydraulic oils. In addition, other innovative tests were suggested which may augment a current oil analysis test slate to improve the value of their program.
Utilizing Validated Computational Models to Predict Tibial Insert Abrasion in Mobile Bearing Knees: A Design Performance Standard
Authors: Morra Edward , Greenwald A. Seth 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
Validated computational models that successfully predict clinically observed outcomes, such as damage occurring in the polymer insert component of a Mobile Bearing Knee (MBK) replacement design, are powerful predictive tools. This paper demonstrates the long term use of a validated computational model that uses the finite element method to visualize the magnitude and location of stresses on the polymer insert associated with abrasive wear damage that occurs in vivo. The use of component geometries generated from three-dimensional laser scans of sterilized, implantable quality components allows detection of poor fit between manufactured component articulations, which is key to successful prediction of observed clinical wear patterns in tibial inserts. The robustness of the model is demonstrated by its ability to predict expected and unexpected wear simulator and clinical retrieval outcomes for a wide variety of MBK designs. It can then be used with some confidence to determine the effect that new, innovative component design changes will have on polymer damage. Validated computational models provide rapid evaluations of anticipated design and material performance at a lower cost than other methods, with results that are predictive of clinical outcomes and allow direct comparison between devices. These methods should be accepted as an a priori evaluative tool by standards and regulatory bodies.
Parents' Experiences With and Preferences for Immunization Reminder/Recall Technologies
Authors: Clark Sarah J. , Butchart Amy , Kennedy Allison , Dombkowski Kevin J. 
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE:To describe parents' experiences and preferences regarding the use of different communication modes for immunization reminder/recall messages.METHODS:A cross-sectional, Internet-based survey of a nationally representative sample of parents of children 0 to 17 years of age was performed. Survey items included questions regarding previous receipt of reminder/recall notices; preferences for how to receive notices in the future; recentness of changes to home address, home telephone, cell phone, and e-mail information; child's usual site for immunization; and willingness to register cell phone numbers with the child's immunization provider to receive future cell phone or text messages about immunization.RESULTS:Overall, 31% of parents had ever received an immunization reminder/recall notice, usually by mail. For future immunization messages, approximately one-third of parents preferred mail or calls to the home telephone, 16% preferred e-mail, and 8% preferred calls to a cell phone. More than one-half of parents had maintained the same home address, home telephone number, cell phone number, or e-mail address for the previous 3 years. More than one-half of parents were willing to register their cell phone numbers with their child's usual immunization provider.CONCLUSIONS:Although most parents continue to prefer the traditional modes for immunization reminder/recall messages, 1 in 4 preferred newer technologies, and parents' e-mail and cell phone information was surprisingly stable. More than one-half of the parents were willing to register their cell phone numbers for future immunization messaging via cell phone calls or text messages. Research and implementation efforts might benefit from focusing on this willing population.