bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Overtraining Syndrome
Authors: Kreher Jeffrey B. , Schwartz Jennifer B. 
Published: February 2012

Context: Fatigue and underperformance are common in athletes. Understanding overtraining syndrome (OTS) is helpful in the evaluation, management, and education of athletes. Evidence Acquisition: Relevant articles in English were searched with OVID (1948-2011) and PubMed using the following keywords: overtraining syndrome, overtraining, overreaching, unexplained underperformance, staleness, pathophysiology, management, treatment, evaluation. Bibliographies were reviewed for additional resources. Results: OTS appears to be a maladapted response to excessive exercise without adequate rest, resulting in perturbations of multiple body systems (neurologic, endocrinologic, immunologic) coupled with mood changes. Many hypotheses of OTS pathogenesis are reviewed, and a clinical approach to athletes with possible OTS (including history, testing, and prevention) is presented. Conclusions: OTS remains a clinical diagnosis with arbitrary definitions per the European College of Sports Science’s position statement. History and, in most situations, limited serologies are helpful. However, much remains to be learned given that most past research has been on athletes with overreaching rather than OTS.
Oligodeoxynucleotides stabilize Helios-expressing Foxp3+ human T regulatory cells during in vitro expansion
Authors: Kim Yong Chan , Bhairavabhotla Ravikiran , Yoon Jeongheon , Golding Amit , Thornton Angela M. , Tran Dat Q. , Shevach Ethan M. 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) maintain self-tolerance and adoptive therapy, and using Foxp3+ Tregs has been proposed as treatment for autoimmune diseases. The clinical use of Tregs will require large numbers of cells and methods for in vitro expansion of Tregs are being developed. Foxp3+ Tregs can be divided into 2 subpopulations based on expression of the transcription factor, Helios. Foxp3+Helios+ Tregs (70%) are thymic-derived, whereas Foxp3+Helios− Tregs (30%) are induced in the periphery. Foxp3+Helios+ Tregs differ from Foxp3+Helios− Tregs in terms of epigenetic changes at the Foxp3 locus, their capacity to produce effector cytokines, and their stability of Foxp3 expression on days to weeks of expansion in vitro. Addition of a 25 mer DNA oligonucleotide of random composition for a short period during the expansion of Foxp3+ Tregs in vitro results in prolonged stabilization of the Foxp3+Helios+ subpopulation and yields an optimal population for use in cellular biotherapy.
Enzymatic activity and immunoreactivity of Aca s 4, an alpha-amylase allergen from the storage mite Acarus siro
Authors: Pytelková Jana , Lepšík Martin , Šanda Miloslav , Talacko Pavel , Marešová Lucie , Mareš Michael 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Background
Enzymatic allergens of storage mites that contaminate stored food products are poorly characterized. We describe biochemical and immunological properties of the native alpha-amylase allergen Aca s 4 from Acarus siro, a medically important storage mite.

Results

A. siro produced a high level of alpha-amylase activity attributed to Aca s 4. This enzyme was purified and identified by protein sequencing and LC-MS/MS analysis. Aca s 4 showed a distinct inhibition pattern and an unusual alpha-amylolytic activity with low sensitivity to activation by chloride ions. Homology modeling of Aca s 4 revealed a structural change in the chloride-binding site that may account for this activation pattern. Aca s 4 was recognized by IgE from house dust mite-sensitive patients, and potential epitopes for cross-reactivity with house dust mite group 4 allergens were found.

Conclusions
We present the first protein-level characterization of a group 4 allergen from storage mites. Due to its high production and IgE reactivity, Aca s 4 is potentially relevant to allergic hypersensitivity.
Clinical features and risk factors for severe and critical pregnant women with 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza infection in China
Authors: Zhang Peng-jun , Li Xiao-li , Cao Bin , Yang Shi-gui , Liang Li-rong , Gu Li , Xu Zhen , Hu Ke , Zhang Hong-yuan , Yan Xi-xin , Huang Wen-bao , Chen Wei , Zhang Jing-xiao , Li Lan-juan , Wang Chen ,   for the National Influenza A Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Clinical Investigation Group of China
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Background
2009 pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) influenza posed an increased risk of severe illness among pregnant women. Data on risk factors associated with death of pregnant women and neonates with pH1N1 infections are limited outside of developed countries.

Methods
Retrospective observational study in 394 severe or critical pregnant women admitted to a hospital with pH1N1 influenza from Sep. 1, 2009 to Dec. 31, 2009. rRT-PCR testing was used to confirm infection. In-hospital mortality was the primary endpoint of this study. Univariable logistic analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to investigate the potential factors on admission that might be associated with the maternal and neonatal mortality.

Results
394 pregnant women were included, 286 were infected with pH1N1 in the third trimester. 351 had pneumonia, and 77 died. A PaO2/FiO2 ≤ 200 (odds ratio (OR), 27.16; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.64-279.70) and higher BMI (i.e. ≥ 30) on admission (OR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.47) were independent risk factors for maternal death. Of 211 deliveries, 146 neonates survived. Premature delivery (OR, 4.17; 95% CI, 1.19-14.56) was associated neonatal mortality. Among 186 patients who received mechanical ventilation, 83 patients were treated with non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and 38 were successful with NIV. The death rate was lower among patients who initially received NIV than those who were initially intubated (24/83, 28.9% vs 43/87, 49.4%; p = 0.006). Septic shock was an independent risk factor for failure of NIV.

Conclusions
Severe hypoxemia and higher BMI on admission were associated with adverse outcomes for pregnant women. Preterm delivery was a risk factor for neonatal death among pregnant women with pH1N1 influenza infection. NIV may be useful in selected pregnant women without septic shock.
Highly frequent PIK3CA amplification is associated with poor prognosis in gastric cancer
Authors: Shi Jing , Yao Demao , Liu Wei , Wang Na , Lv Hongjun , Zhang Guanjun , Ji Meiju , Xu Li , He Nongyue , Shi Bingyin , Hou Peng 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Background
The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway plays a fundamental role in cell proliferation and survival in human tumorigenesis, including gastric cancer. PIK3CA mutations and amplification are two major causes of overactivation of this pathway in human cancers. However, until this work, there was no sound investigation on the association of PIK3CA mutations and amplification with clinical outcome in gastric cancer, particularly the latter.

Methods
Using direct sequencing and real-time quantitative PCR, we examined PIK3CA mutations and amplification, and their association with clinicopathological characteristics and clinical outcome of gastric cancer patients.

Results

PIK3CA mutations and amplification were found in 8/113 (7.1%) and 88/131 (67%) gastric cancer patients, respectively. PIK3CA amplification was closely associated with increased phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt) level. No relationship was found between PIK3CA mutations and clinicopathological characteristics and clinical outcome in gastric cancer. PIK3CA amplification was significantly positively associated with cancer-related death. Importantly, Kaplan-Meier survival curves revealed that the patients with PIK3CA amplification had significantly shorter survival times than the patients without PIK3CA amplification.

Conclusions
Our data showed that PIK3CA mutations were not common, but its amplification was very common in gastric cancer and may be a major mechanism in activating the PI3K/Akt pathway in gastric cancer. Importantly, Kaplan-Meier survival curves revealed that PIK3CA amplification was significantly positively associated with poor survival of gastric cancer patients. Collectively, the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway may be an effective therapeutic target in gastric cancer.
Interaction between alcohol drinking and obesity in relation to colorectal cancer risk: a case-control study in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Authors: Zhao Jinhui , Zhu Yun , Wang Peizhong Peter , West Roy , Buehler Sharon , Sun Zhuoyu , Squires Josh , Roebothan Barbara , McLaughlin John R , Campbell Peter T , Parfrey Patrick S 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Background
While substantive epidemiological literature suggests that alcohol drinking and obesity are potential risk factors of colorectal cancer (CRC), the possible interaction between the two has not been adequately explored. We used a case-control study to examine if alcohol drinking is associated with an increased risk of CRC and if such risk differs in people with and without obesity.

Methods
Newly diagnosed CRC cases were identified between 1999 and 2003 in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). Cases were frequency-matched by age and sex with controls selected using random digit dialing. Cases (702) and controls (717) completed self-administered questionnaires assessing health and lifestyle variables. Estimates of alcohol intake included types of beverage, years of drinking, and average number of alcohol drinks per day. Odds ratios were estimated to investigate the associations of alcohol independently and when stratified by obesity status on the risk of CRC.

Results
Among obese participants (BMI ≥ 30), alcohol was associated with higher risk of CRC (OR: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.2-4.0) relative to the non-alcohol category. Among obese individuals, 3 or more different types of drinks were associated with a 3.4-fold higher risk of CRC relative to non-drinkers. The risk of CRC also increased with drinking years and drinks daily among obese participants. However, no increased risk was observed in people without obesity.

Conclusion
The effect of alcohol of drinking on CRC seems to be modified by obesity.
Using staffing ratios for workforce planning: evidence on nine allied health professions
Authors: Cartmill Linda , Comans Tracy A , Clark Michele J , Ash Susan , Sheppard Lorraine 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Background
Modern healthcare managers are faced with pressure to deliver effective, efficient services within the context of fixed budget constraints. Managers are required to make decisions regarding the skill mix of the workforce particularly when staffing new services. One measure used to identify numbers and mix of staff in healthcare settings is workforce ratio. The aim of this study was to identify workforce ratios in nine allied health professions and to identify whether these measures are useful for planning allied health workforce requirements.

Methods
A systematic literature search using relevant MeSH headings of business, medical and allied health databases and relevant grey literature for the period 2000-2008 was undertaken.

Results
Twelve articles were identified which described the use of workforce ratios in allied health services. Only one of these was a staffing ratio linked to clinical outcomes. The most comprehensive measures were identified in rehabilitation medicine.

Conclusion
The evidence for use of staffing ratios for allied health practitioners is scarce and lags behind the fields of nursing and medicine.
Carbon nanohorn-based nanofluids: characterization of the spectral scattering albedo
Authors: Mercatelli Luca , Sani Elisa , Giannini Annalisa , Di Ninni Paola , Martelli Fabrizio , Zaccanti Giovanni 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
The full characterization of the optical properties of nanofluids consisting of single-wall carbon nanohorns of different morphologies in aqueous suspensions is carried out using a novel spectrophotometric technique. Information on the nanofluid scattering and absorption spectral characteristics is obtained by analyzing the data within the single scattering theory and validating the method by comparison with previous monochromatic measurements performed with a different technique. The high absorption coefficient measured joint to the very low scattering albedo opens promising application perspectives for single-wall carbon nanohorn-based fluid or solid suspensions. The proposed approximate approach can be extended also to other low-scattering turbid media.

PACS: 78.35.+c Brillouin and Rayleigh scattering, other light scattering; 78.40.Ri absorption and reflection spectra, fullerenes and related materials; 81.05.U- carbon/carbon-based materials; 78.67.Bf optical properties of low-dimensional, mesoscopic, and nanoscale materials and structures, nanocrystals, nanoparticles, and nanoclusters.
Social network analysis and agent-based modeling in social epidemiology
Authors: El-Sayed Abdulrahman M , Scarborough Peter , Seemann Lars , Galea Sandro 
Published: February 2012

AbstractThe past five years have seen a growth in the interest in systems approaches in epidemiologic research. These approaches may be particularly appropriate for social epidemiology. Social network analysis and agent-based models (ABMs) are two approaches that have been used in the epidemiologic literature. Social network analysis involves the characterization of social networks to yield inference about how network structures may influence risk exposures among those in the network. ABMs can promote population-level inference from explicitly programmed, micro-level rules in simulated populations over time and space. In this paper, we discuss the implementation of these models in social epidemiologic research, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each approach. Network analysis may be ideal for understanding social contagion, as well as the influences of social interaction on population health. However, network analysis requires network data, which may sacrifice generalizability, and causal inference from current network analytic methods is limited. ABMs are uniquely suited for the assessment of health determinants at multiple levels of influence that may couple with social interaction to produce population health. ABMs allow for the exploration of feedback and reciprocity between exposures and outcomes in the etiology of complex diseases. They may also provide the opportunity for counterfactual simulation. However, appropriate implementation of ABMs requires a balance between mechanistic rigor and model parsimony, and the precision of output from complex models is limited. Social network and agent-based approaches are promising in social epidemiology, but continued development of each approach is needed.
Combination antiretroviral therapy and chronic HIV infection affect serum retinoid concentrations: longitudinal and cross-sectional assessments
Authors: Loignon Maude , Brodeur Hélène , Deschênes Sonia , Phaneuf Denis , Bhat Pangala V , Toma Emil 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Background
Several lines of evidence suggest that retinoids (retinol-ROL or vitamin A, and its active metabolites, retinoic acids-RAs) play important pathogenic roles in HIV infection and combination antiretroviral therapy (cART)-related events. We previously reported that antiretrovirals alter RAs synthesis in vitro. We hypothesised that in vivo serum retinoid concentrations are affected by both cART and HIV infection. This might explain several clinical and laboratory abnormalities reported in HIV-infected patients receiving cART.

Methods
The effects of optimal cART and chronic HIV on serum retinoids were firstly assessed longitudinally in 10 HIV-infected adults (group1 = G1): twice while on optimal cART (first, during long-term and second, during short term cART) and twice during 2 cART interruptions when HIV viral load (VL) was detectable. Retinoid concentrations during optimal long term cART in G1 were compared with cross-sectional results from 12 patients (G2) with suboptimal cART (detectable VL) and from 28 healthy adults (G3). Serum retinoids were measured by HPLC with ultraviolet detection. Retinoid concentrations were correlated with VL, CD4+ T- cell count and percentages, CD8+38+ fluorescence, triglycerides, cholesterol and C-peptide serum levels.

Results
During optimal cART, G1 participants had drastically reduced RAs (0.5 ± 0.3 μg/dL; P < 0.01) but the highest ROL (82 ± 3.0 μg/dL) concentrations. During cART interruptions in these patients, RAs slightly increased whereas ROL levels diminished significantly (P < 0.05). G3 had the highest RAs levels (7.2 ± 1.1 μg/dL) and serum ROL comparable to values in North Americans. Serum ROL was decreased in G2 (37.7 ± 3.2 μg/dL; P < 0.01). No correlations were noted between RA and ROL levels or between retinoid concentrations and CD4+ T- cell count, CD8+38+ fluorescence, VL. ROL correlated with triglycerides and cholesterol in G1 (rs = 0.8; P = 0.01).

Conclusions
Serum RAs levels are significantly diminished by cART, whereas ROL concentrations significantly decreased during uncontrolled HIV infection but augmented with optimal cART. These alterations in retinoid concentrations may affect the expression of retinoid-responsive genes involved in metabolic, hormonal and immune processes and be responsible for some adverse events observed in HIV-infected persons treated with antiretrovirals. Further studies should assess concomitant serum and intracellular retinoid levels in different clinical situations in larger, homogenous populations.
Giant primary adrenal hydatid cyst presenting with arterial hypertension: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Tazi Fadl , Ahsaini Mustapha , Khalouk Abdelhak , Mellas Soufiane , Stuurman-Wieringa Roos E , Elfassi Mohammed Jamal , Farih Moulay Hassan 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Introduction
A primary hydatid cyst of the adrenal gland is still an exceptional localization. The adrenal gland is an uncommon site even in Morocco, where echinococcal disease is endemic.

Case presentation
We report the case of a 64-year-old Moroccan man who presented with the unusual symptom of arterial hypertension associated with left flank pain. Computed tomography showed a cystic mass of his left adrenal gland with daughter cysts filing the lesion (Type III). Despite his negative serology tests, the diagnosis of a hydatid cyst was confirmed on surgical examination. Our patient underwent surgical excision of his left adrenal gland with normalization of blood pressure. No recurrence has occurred after 36 months of follow-up.

Conclusion
There are two remarkable characteristics of this case report; the first is the unusual location of the cyst, the second is the association of an adrenal hydatid cyst with arterial hypertension, which has rarely been reported in the literature.
Reproducibility and intraindividual variation over days in buccal cell DNA methylation of two asthma genes, interferon γ (IFNγ) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)
Authors: Torrone DZ , Kuriakose JS , Moors K , Jiang H , Niedzwiecki MM , Perera FF , Miller RL 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
The biological mechanisms responsible for the onset and exacerbation of asthma symptoms in children may involve the epigenetic regulation of inflammatory genes after environmental exposures. Using buccal cells, we hypothesized that DNA methylation in promoter regions of two asthma genes, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and interferon γ (IFNγ), can vary over several days. Repeat buccal samples were collected 4 to 7 days apart from 34 children participating in the Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health (CCCEH) birth cohort study. Several field duplicates (sequential collection of two samples in the field) and replicates (one sample pyrosequenced twice) also were collected to ensure consistency with collection and laboratory procedures. DNA methylation was assessed by pyrosequencing a PCR of bisulfite-treated DNA. We found that replicate and field duplicate samples were correlated strongly (r = 0.86 to 0.99, P < 0.05), while repeat samples demonstrated low within-subject correlations (r = 0.19 to 0.56, P = 0.06 to 0.30). Our data reveal DNA methylation as a dynamic epigenetic mechanism that can be accessed safely and reproducibly in an inner city pediatric cohort using non-invasive buccal swabs and pyrosequencing technology.
Synthesis and anti-HSV-1 evaluation of new 3H-benzo[b]pyrazolo[3,4-h]-1,6-naphthyridines and 3H-pyrido[2,3-b]pyrazolo[3,4-h]-1,6-naphthyridines
Authors: Bernardino Alice MR , Azevedo Alexandre R , Pinheiro Luiz CS , Borges Júlio C , Paixão Izabel CP , Mesquita Milene , Souza Thiago ML , dos Santos Maurício S 
Published: February 2012

AbstractBackgroundHerpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1) is the primary cause of facial lesions (mouth, lips, and eyes) in humans. The widespread use of acyclovir and nucleoside analogues has led to emergence of HSV strains that are resistant to these drugs. Recently, non-nucleoside anti-HSV compounds have received considerable attention. 1,6-Naphthyridines are a class of heterocyclic compounds that exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activities such as inhibitor of HIV-1 integrase, HCMV, FGF receptor-1 tyrosine kinase, and the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. We previously reported the synthesis, SAR studies, and evaluation anti-HSV-1 activity of 3H-benzo[b]pyrazolo[3,4-h]-1,6-naphthyridines. In the course of our search for new 1,6-naphthyridines derivatives with potential activity against HSV-1, we have synthesized and evaluated new 3H-benzo[b]pyrazolo[3,4-h]-1,6-naphthyridines(1a-k)and 3H-pyrido[2,3-b]pyrazolo[3,4-h]-1,6-naphthyridines(2a-c).ResultsA known synthetic approach was used for preparing new 3H-benzo[b]pyrazolo[3,4-h]-1,6-naphthyridines(1a-k)and 3H-pyrido[2,3-b]pyrazolo[3,4-h]-1,6-naphthyridines(2a-c), starting from ethyl 4-chloro-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-5-carboxylate(7). All compounds were identified by FTIR,1H NMR, and mass spectrometry. The antiviral effect on HSV-1 virus replication was determined.ConclusionsThe compounds1d,1f,1g, and1hexhibited the highest anti-HSV-1 activity. In general, 3H-benzo[b]pyrazolo[3,4-h]-1,6-naphthyridines were more effective inhibitors than their corresponding 3H-pyrido[2,3-b]pyrazolo[3,4-h]-1,6-naphthyridines. The compound1hreduced the virus yield in 91% at 50 μM and exhibited a low cytotoxicity (CC50600 μM).
Mobile communication for intellectually challenged people: a proposed set of requirements for interface design on touch screen devices
Authors: de Urturi Breton Zelai Saenz , Hernández Fernando Jorge , Zorrilla Amaia Méndez , Zapirain Begoña García 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
The use of certain applications for touch-based mobile devices can prove to be difficult for intellectually challenged people. By performing tests and gathering user feedback, great difficulty has been detected in the use of various applications due to their complicated interfaces.
The authors propose a set of guidelines, aimed at developers, to help design more accessible interfaces when developing applications for intellectually challenged, so this might increase the overall ease of use of mobile devices.