bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Health benefits of traffic-related air pollution reduction in different socioeconomic groups: the effect of low-emission zoning in Rome
Authors: Cesaroni Giulia , Boogaard Hanna , Jonkers Sander , Porta Daniela , Badaloni Chiara , Cattani Giorgio , Forastiere Francesco , Hoek Gerard 
Published: August 2011

ObjectivesFew studies have assessed the effects of policies aimed to reduce traffic-related air pollution. The aims of this study were to evaluate the impact, in terms of air quality and health effects, of two low-emission zones established in Rome in the period 2001–2005 and to assess the impact by socioeconomic position (SEP) of the population.MethodsWe evaluated the effects of the intervention on various stages in the full-chain model, that is, pressure (number and age distribution of cars), emissions, PM10and NO2concentrations, population exposure and years of life gained (YLG). The impact was evaluated according to a small-area indicator of SEP.ResultsDuring the period 2001–2005, there was a decrease in the total number of cars (−3.8%), NO2and PM10emissions and concentrations (from 22.9 to 17.4 μg/m3for NO2and from 7.8 to 6.2 μg/m3for PM10), and in the residents' exposure. In the two low-emission zones, there was an additional decrease in air pollution concentrations (NO2: −4.13 and −2.99 μg/m3; PM10: −0.70 and −0.47 μg/m3). As a result of the policy, 264 522 residents living along busy roads gained 3.4 days per person (921 YLG per 100 000) for NO2reduction. The gain was larger for people in the highest SEP group (1387 YLG per 100 000) than for residents in the lowest SEP group (340 YLG per 100 000).ConclusionThe traffic policy in Rome was effective in reducing traffic-related air pollution, but most of the health gains were found in well-off residents.
Nicotine improves the functional activity of late endothelial progenitor cells via nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
Authors: Yu Min , Liu Qian , Sun Jing , Yi Kaihong , Wu Libiao , Tan Xuerui 
Published: August 2011

The aim of this study is to investigate whether nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are involved in the modulation of functional activity of late endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) induced by nicotine. Total mononuclear cells (MNCs) were isolated from human umbilical cord blood by Ficoll density gradient centrifugation, and then the cells were plated on fibronectin-coated culture plates. Late EPCs were positive for 1,1-dioctadecyl-3,3,3,3-tetramethylindocarbocyanine-labeled acetylated low-density lipoprotein (DiI-acLDL) uptake and fluorescein-isothiocyanate-conjugated Ulex europaeus agglutinin lectin (UEA-1) binding. Expression of von Willbrand factor (vWF), kinase insert domain receptor (KDR), and α7 nAChR was detected by indirect immunofluorescence staining. Late EPCs of 3–5 passages were treated for 32 h with either vehicle or nicotine with or without pre-incubation of nAChR antagonism, mecamylamine, or α-bungarotoxin. The viability, migration, and in vitro vasculogenesis activity of late EPCs were assayed with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, modified Boyden chamber assay, and in vitro angiogenesis assay, respectively. Late EPCs adhesion assay was performed by replating cells on fibronectin-coated plates, and then adherent cells were counted. Incubation with 10 nmol/L nicotine enhanced viable, migratory, adhesive, and in vitro vasculogenesis capacity of late EPCs. The effect of nicotine on late EPCs can be attenuated by mecamylamine or α-bungarotoxin. In conclusion, nicotine improves the functional activity of late EPCs via nAChRs.
Tailored therapy for heart failure: neurohormones
Authors: Richards A. Mark 
Published: August 2011

Plasma B type cardiac natriuretic peptides reflect cardiac structure and function and have proven roles in assisting in the diagnosis of acute heart failure. They are also powerful independent prognostic indicators across the full spectrum of cardiovascular disease. The efficacy of serial measurements of plasma B type peptides in guiding titration of therapy for chronic heart failure has been the subject of a number of randomized controlled trials. These are summarized in the following brief review. In the decade 2000–2010, 8 trials have been completed. Study design, the characteristics of the heart failure population studied, duration of follow-up, the exact end points recorded, and target peptide levels pursued all differ somewhat between trials. However, an overall consistency is emerging, supported by 2 metaanalyses. In aggregate, the existing trial data suggest that adjustment of treatment in chronic heart failure according to serial B type peptide measurements used in conjunction with established clinical methods is likely to reduce cardiac mortality and admissions with heart failure, at least in those patients aged under 75 years with impaired left ventricular systolic function.
Genetic Variation in IGF2 and HTRA1 and Breast Cancer Risk among BRCA1 and BRCA2 Carriers
Authors: Neuhausen Susan L. , Brummel Sean , Ding Yuan Chun , Steele Linda , Nathanson Katherine L. , Domchek Susan , Rebbeck Timothy R. , Singer Christian F. , Pfeiler Georg , Lynch Henry T. , Garber Judy E. , Couch Fergus , Weitzel Jeffrey N. , Godwin Andrew , Narod Steven A. , Ganz Patricia A. , Daly Mary B. , Isaacs Claudine , Olopade Olufunmilayo I. , Tomlinson Gail E. , Rubinstein Wendy S. , Tung Nadine , Blum Joanne L. , Gillen Daniel L. 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
Background: BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers have a lifetime breast cancer risk of 40% to 80%, suggesting the presence of risk modifiers. We previously identified significant associations in genetic variants in the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling pathway. Here, we investigate additional IGF signaling genes as risk modifiers for breast cancer development in BRCA carriers.
Methods: A cohort of 1,019 BRCA1 and 500 BRCA2 mutation carriers were genotyped for 99 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in 13 genes. Proportional hazards regression was used to model time from birth to diagnosis of breast cancer for BRCA1 and BRCA2 carriers separately. For linkage disequilibrium (LD) blocks with multiple SNPs, an additive genetic model was used. For an SNP analysis, no additivity assumptions were made.
Results: Significant associations were found between risk of breast cancer and LD blocks in IGF2 for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers (global P values of 0.009 for BRCA1 and 0.007 for BRCA2), HTRA1 for BRCA1 carriers (global P value of 0.005), and MMP3 for BRCA2 carriers (global P = 0.0000007 for BRCA2).
Conclusions: We identified significant associations of genetic variants involved in IGF signaling. With the known interaction of BRCA1 and IGF signaling and the loss of PTEN in a majority of BRCA1 tumors, this suggests that signaling through AKT may modify breast cancer risk in BRCA1 carriers.
Impact: These results suggest potential avenues for future research targeting the IGF signaling pathway in modifying risk in BRCA1and BRCA2 mutation carriers. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(8); 1690–702. ©2011 AACR.
Eugenics in Portugal, 1900–1950: Setting a Research Agenda
Authors: Cleminson Richard 
Published: August 2011

AbstractThis article sets out a research agenda for the study of eugenics in Portugal between 1900 and 1950. In the first part, it frames the debate by reference to four broad themes in the articulation of eugenic knowledge: the international historiographical framework; the role of the state in the construction of eugenics; the question of race in respect of the Portuguese colonies, the metropole and Portugaĺs peripheral geographical position in Europe; the structure of the Portuguese scientific community. In the second part of the article, a broad overview of the history of eugenics in Portugal is provided together with the suggestion of strategies for further research.
The Occurrence Mechanism of Periodicity of Creep Crack Path for P92
Authors: Nagumo Y. , Yokobori A. T. , Sugiura R. , Matsuzaki T. 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
The morphology of creep crack growth in metals is usually dominated by inter-granular cracking. However, for developed heat-resistant steels with a martensitic lath strengthening structure such as ASME Grade P92, inter-granular cracking, which is a typical fracture mechanism of creep crack growth, was restrained, and the creep crack growth path was found to be composed of a fracture unit area (FA) beyond the scale of the grain size. In spite of the fact that FA is closely related to resistance against crack growth, the occurrence mechanism of FA has not yet been clarified. In this study, by conducting creep crack growth tests for P92, two-dimensional finite element analyses, and metallurgical characterization of the microstructure, the occurrence mechanism of FA for P92 was clarified. As a result, the creep crack growth path for P92 was found to be composed of an FA beyond the scale of the grain size due to the sub-critical crack growth, and the periodic sub-critical crack growth was found to be dominated by the preceding initiation of voids along a slip line. On the basis of the proposed finite element method analysis, this crack growth mechanism was found to cause dispersion of creep damage, which causes unstable crack growth and results in periodic convexo-concave crack growth, that is, FA-cracking.
Acute Myocardial Infarction after Dog Bite: A Case Report
Authors: Rahman A , Khan A , Hasnayeen SM , Islam AKMM 
Published: August 2011

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) after dog bite is rare. Capnocytophaga canimorsus , a Gramnegative, commensal organism of canine buccal cavity may cause bacterimia and sepsis. Hypotensioninduced stasis, septic emboli to the coronary artery, endothelial dysfunction and plaque vulnerability induced by acute inflammation may lead to acute coronary syndrome in this situation. Isolation of the bacteria may be challenging due to fastidious nature of the organism. Management is as per standard protocol. However, appropriate antibiotic therapy is crucial. Like many other parts of the world, dog bite is endemic in Bangladesh. The case presented here reminds us of the need for preparedness to deal with myocardial infarction associated with dog bite effectively. Key words: Myocardial infarction; Dog bite; Capnocytophaga canimorsus. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i2.8178 Cardiovasc. j. 2009; 1(2) : 231-233
Pacing in a Woman with Full Term Pregnancy: First Case Report in Bangladesh
Authors: Chowdhury AW , Muttalib MA , Islam AEM Masharul , Choudhury AK , Faruk M , Begum K , Siddiq AB , Dutta S , Giasuddin RS , Mondol DK , Kamal AHM , Shakawatullah M 
Published: August 2011

A 19-year-old primigravida was diagnosed to have complete heart block (CHB) during her antenatal checkup at 36 weeks. The patient had history of syncope a few years back. She was referred to the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD). A temporary pacemaker was implanted at NICVD. She was then referred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), where a baby girl was delivered by cesarean section. A permanent pacemaker was implanted later at NICVD. To our knowledge this is the first case report of pace maker implantation in a pregnant woman from Bangladesh. Key Words: Congenital complete heart block; Pregnancy; Pacemaker. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i2.8179 Cardiovasc. j. 2009; 1(2) : 237-239
Spectral domain OCT and autofluorescence imaging of unilateral acute idiopathic maculopathy
Authors: Milani Paolo , Cacioppo Viviana , Raimondi Giulia , Scialdone Antonio 
Published: August 2011

Purpose To report imaging findings of unilateral acute idiopathic maculopathy (UAIM). Methods In this observational case report, the Spectralis acquisition system (Heidelberg Engineering, Germany), which includes spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT), multiple autofluorescence (AF), fluorescein angiography (FA), and indocyanine green (ICG) angiography, was used for monitoring onset and evolution of UAIM. Results A well-defined, bullous macular lesion was evident on color pictures, infrared imaging (IR), and AF. Fluorescein angiography and ICG similarly showed early hypofluorescence of the lesion and, exclusively on FA, mild staining. Notably, the definition and limits of the detachment were clearly identifiable on late-phase ICG, and formed a hypocyanescent area. Spectral domain OCT disclosed severe retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) but not neurosensory detachment; the distinction between the photoreceptors inner/outer segment line was nonapparent for the entire length of the lesion. At 7-week follow-up, visual acuity improved to 20/20, with resolution of the exudative detachment. Autofluorescence and FA imaging indicated normalization, and only IR showed the boundaries of the lesion as still identifiable. Infrared imaging also showed a central granular feature, suggesting persistent choroid and pigment alteration. Indocyanine green angiography still evidenced the early hypofluorescent halo that became more evident in the late phases without any staining of the dye. Tomography depicted a reconstituted fovea, in which the outer limiting membrane and the inner/outer segment junction returned detectable. Conclusions Comprehensive evaluation of UAIM by AF, FA, ICG, and spectral domain OCT disclosed involvement of RPE, the neuroretina, and the choroid in the pathogenesis of the disease. Despite functional recovery, choroidal rather than retinal alteration could persist.
Risk of venous thromboembolism and primary prophylaxis in cancer
Authors: Ay C. , Pabinger I. 
Published: August 2011

SummaryVenous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication in patients with cancer that causes significant morbidity and mortality. Several patient-, tumour-and treatment-related risk factors for VTE in cancer patients have been identified. An effective and safe thromboprophylaxis in cancer patients at high risk of VTE is desirable. Recently, the identification of potential biomarkers and the development of risk scoring models for prediction of cancer-associated VTE have been published. Whether primary VTE prophylaxis based on risk assessment through these biomarkers and risk prediction models might be useful, is currently not yet known. However, thromboprophylaxis is clearly indicated in high-risk situations. While VTE prophylaxis is recommended in cancer patients undergoing surgery and in hospitalised patients with acute disease, studies in ambulatory cancer patients are still rare and evidence for primary VTE prophylaxis is currently limited. In this review, risk factors associated with VTE in cancer patients and current approaches of thromboprophylaxis in different settings, specifically in ambulatory cancer patients are subjected to a critical evaluation.
Diastereoselective Nucleophilic Addition to Aldehydes with Polar α‐ and α,β‐Substituents
Authors: Borg Tessie , Danielsson Jakob , Mohiti Maziar , Restorp Per , Somfai Peter 
Published: August 2011

AbstractThe stereoselectivities obtained in Lewis acid‐promoted Mukaiyama aldol additions and Sakurai allylations of mono‐, and syn‐ and anti‐disubstituted aldehydes possessing various polar α‐ and β‐substituents under non‐chelating conditions are presented. The stereochemical outcome in the nucleophilic addition to α‐substituted aldehydes containing an α‐benzyloxy, α‐fluoro or α‐sulfonamide substituent are accurately predicted by current stereoinduction models.	In contrast, the selectivitites obtained from addition of sterically demanding nucleophiles to α‐chloro‐substituted aldehydes cannot be rationalized by the same models and an alternative is discussed. The stereochemichal outcome in the additions to α,β‐disubstituted aldehydes is more complex and cannot be predicted using current models.
Intra‐Molecular Donor–Acceptor Interaction Effects on Charge Dissociation, Charge Transport, and Charge Collection in Bulk‐Heterojunction Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Zang Huidong , Liang Yongye , Yu Luping , Hu Bin 
Published: August 2011

AbstractThis article reports experimental studies on internal charge dissociation, transport, and collection by using magnetic field effects of photocurrent (MFEPC) and light‐assisted dielectric response (LADR) in highly‐efficient organic solar cells based on photovoltaic polymer PTB2 and PTB4 with intra‐molecular “donor–acceptor” interaction. The MFEPCat low‐field (< 150mT) indicates that intra‐molecular “donor‐acceptor” interaction generates charge dissociation in un‐doped PTB2 and PTB4 films, which is similar to that in lightly doped P3HT (Poly(3‐hexylthiophene)) with 5 wt% PCBM (1‐(3‐methyloxycarbonyl)‐propyl‐1‐phenyl (6,6) C61). After PTB2 and PTB4 are mixed with PCBM to form bulk‐heterojunctions, the MFEPCat high‐field (> 150mT) reveals that the charge‐transfer complexes formed at PTB2:PCBM and PTB4:PCBM interfaces have much lower binding energies due to stronger electron‐withdrawing abilities, as compared to the P3HT:PCBM device, towards the generation of photocurrent. Furthermore, the light‐assisted dielectric response: LADR indicates that the PTB2:PCBM and PTB4:PCBM solar cells exhibit larger capacitances relative to P3HT:PCBM device under photoexcitation. This reflects that the PTB2:PCBM and PTB4:PCBM bulk heterojunctions have more effective charge transport and collection than the P3HT:PCBM counterpart. As a result, our experimental results indicate that intra‐molecular “donor‐acceptor” interaction plays an important role to enhance charge dissociation, transport, and collection in bulk‐heterojunction organic solar cells.
Consensus statement from the first international colloquium on basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS)
Authors: Bree Alanna F. , Shah Maulik R. ,   for the BCNS Colloquium Group
Published: August 2011

AbstractThe first international colloquium on basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS) was held at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and supported by the Basal Cell Carcinoma Nevus Syndrome (BCCNS) Life Support Network (www.gorlinsyndrome.org). The foremost goal of the conference was to review and revise the prior diagnostic criteria and define the surveillance recommendations for affected pediatric and adult patients to allow for early intervention. The invited consensus group participants included geneticists, dermatologists, orthopedists, neurologists, and dental/oral medicine specialists, who treat patients with BCNS or related disorders. This group also included individuals who have a research interest in BCNS and who additionally serve on the medical advisory board of the BCCNS Life Support Network. Expert opinion was based on the collective clinical and research experience of the consensus group participants after presentation and review of the previously published literature regarding diagnosis and treatment of BCNS. A consensus was achieved and agreed upon by open roundtable discussion of the group participants. The consensus statement outlines the proposed diagnostic and management protocols that will hopefully limit morbidity and mortality for affected individuals until more specific and targeted therapies are widely available. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improvement in the range of joint motion in seven patients with mucopolysaccharidosis type II during experimental gene expression‐targeted isoflavone therapy (GET IT)
Authors: Marucha Jolanta , Tylki‐Szymańska Anna , Jakóbkiewicz‐Banecka Joanna , Piotrowska Ewa , Kloska Anna , Czartoryska Barbara , Węgrzyn Grzegorz 
Published: August 2011

AbstractMucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II, Hunter disease) is an X chromosome‐linked inherited metabolic disease caused by mutations resulting in deficiency of activity of iduronate‐2‐sulfatase (IDS) and accumulation of undegraded glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), heparan sulfate, and dermatan sulfate. Previous experiments with cell cultures and studies on animal model of MPS II suggested that gene expression‐targeted isoflavone therapy (GET IT), based on genistein‐mediated reduction of efficiency of GAG synthesis, might be a suitable therapy for this disease. In this report, we demonstrate efficacy of GET IT in connective tissue elasticity, particularly in improving the range of joint motion in seven patients with MPS II after 26 weeks of treatment with an isoflavone extract at the dose corresponding to 5 mg/kg/day of genistein. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Conflicts regarding genetic counseling for fragile X syndrome screening: A survey of clinical geneticists and genetic counselors in Israel
Authors: Lieberman Sari , Zuckerman Shachar , Levy‐Lahad Ephrat , Altarescu Gheona 
Published: August 2011

AbstractAlthough fragile X screening has been offered in Israel since 1994, issues related to potential neurological and gynecological symptoms in carriers make counseling for fragile X different from recessive disorders. We evaluated the attitudes of clinical geneticists and genetic counselors regarding genetic counseling given to the women undergoing screening. We performed a self‐administered questionnaire including 13 study questions mailed to all clinical geneticists and genetic counselors in Israel. The questions were related to counseling for women pre‐ and post‐screening regarding themselves and the affected fetuses (including the risk for premature ovarian insufficiency; FXPOI and fragile X‐associated tremor ataxia syndrome; FXTAS). Out of a total of 80 clinical geneticists and genetic counselors, 34 responded with no additional responses on e‐mail re‐call. There was no clear consensus for 11/13 (85%) presented questions. The most striking differences in opinion were observed for issues regarding FXTAS risk in pre‐screening counseling sessions (P < 0.05). This study demonstrates that, there is no consensus on critical variables implying risk for fetus and mother and that counseling practices are dissimilar even in this small cohort of experts. We demonstrated a conflict between the detailed amount of information, which should be given prior to the test in order to allow informed decisions and the overload of information, which may cause confusion. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Translocation of green fluorescent protein by comparative analysis with multiple signal peptides
Authors: Linton Elisabeth , Walsh Marie K. , Sims Ronald C. , Miller Charles D. 
Published: August 2011

AbstractType I and II secretory pathways are used for the translocation of recombinant proteins from the cytoplasm of Escherichia coli. The purpose of this study was to evaluate four signal peptides (HlyA, TorA, GeneIII, and PelB), representing the most common secretion pathways in E. coli, for their ability to target green fluorescent protein (GFP) for membrane translocation. Signal peptide‐GFP genetic fusions were designed in accordance with BioFusion standards (BBF RFC 10, BBF RFC 23). The HlyA signal peptide targeted GFP for secretion to the extracellular media via the type I secretory pathway, whereas TAT‐dependent signal peptide TorA and Sec‐dependent signal peptide GeneIII exported GFP to the periplasm. The PelB signal peptide was inefficient in translocating GFP. The use of biological technical standards simplified the design and construction of functional signal peptide‐recombinant protein genetic devices for type I and II secretion in E. coli. The utility of the standardized parts model is further illustrated as constructed biological parts are available for direct application to other studies on recombinant protein translocation.