bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In Vitro
Generation of High-Titer Prions
Authors: Shikiya Ronald A. , Bartz Jason C. 
Published: September 2011

ABSTRACT

Prions are composed mainly, if not entirely, of PrP
Sc
, an infectious misfolded isoform of PrP
C
, the normal isoform of the prion protein. Here we show that protein misfolding cyclic amplification (PMCA)-generated hypertransmissible mink encephalopathy (HY TME) PrP
Sc
is highly infectious and has a titer that is similar, if not identical, to that associated with brain tissue from animals infected with the HY TME agent that are in the terminal stage of disease. These data demonstrate that PMCA efficiently replicates the prion agent and provide further support for the hypothesis that
in vitro
-generated prions are bona fide and are not due to contamination.
Genotype- and Mutation Site–Specific QT Adaptation During Exercise, Recovery, and Postural Changes in Children With Long-QT Syndrome
Authors: Aziz Peter F. , Wieand Tammy S. , Ganley Jamie , Henderson Jacqueline , Patel Akash R. , Iyer V. Ramesh , Vogel R. Lee , McBride Michael , Vetter Victoria L. , Shah Maully J. 
Published: September 2011

Background—
Exercise stress testing has shown diagnostic utility in adult patients with long-QT syndrome (LQTS); however, the QT interval adaptation in response to exercise in pediatric patients with LQTS has received little attention.

Methods and Results—

One-hundred fifty-eight patients were divided into 3 groups: Those with LQTS type 1 (LQT1) or LQTS type 2 (LQT2) and normal control subjects without cardiovascular disease. Each patient underwent a uniform exercise protocol with a cycle ergometer followed by a 9-minute recovery phase with continuous 12-lead ECG monitoring. Each patient underwent a baseline ECG while resting in the supine position and in a standstill position during continuous ECG recording to determine changes in the QT and RR intervals. Fifty patients were gene-positive for LQTS (n=29 for LQT1 and n=21 for LQT2), and the control group consisted of 108 patients. QT interval adaptation was abnormal in the LQT1 patients compared with LQT2 and control patients (
P
<0.001). A corrected QT interval (QTc) >460 ms in the late recovery phase at 7 minutes predicted LQT1 or LQT2 versus control subjects with 96% specificity, 86% sensitivity, and a 91% positive predictive value. A recovery ΔQTc
(7 min−1 min)
>30 ms predicted LQT2 versus LQT1 with 75% sensitivity, 82% specificity, and a 75% positive predictive value. The postural ΔQT was significantly different between LQTS and control groups (
P
=0.005).

Conclusions—
Genotype-specific changes in repolarization response to exercise and recovery exist in the pediatric population and are of diagnostic utility in LQTS. An extended recovery phase is preferable to assess the repolarization response after exercise in the pediatric population.
Relationship Between the Temporal Profile of Plasma microRNA and Left Ventricular Remodeling in Patients After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Zile Michael R. , Mehurg Shannon M. , Arroyo Jazmine E. , Stroud Robert E. , DeSantis Stacia M. , Spinale Francis G. 
Published: September 2011

Background—
microRNAs (miRs) are small noncoding RNAs that recognize and bind to mRNAs and inhibit protein translation or degrade mRNA. Studies in animal models have suggested that miRs play a translational or posttranslational regulatory role in myocardial growth, fibrosis, viability, and remodeling. However, whether specific temporal changes in miRs occur in patients during the left ventricular (LV) remodeling process that follows a myocardial infarction (post-MI) remains unknown. The current pilot study tested the hypotheses that plasma miRs could be reliably measured in post-MI patients and that there is a relationship between temporal changes in specific miRs and post-MI LV structural remodeling.

Methods and Results—

LV end-diastolic volume (echocardiography) and plasma miR were measured in age-matched referent controls (CTLs, n=12) and post-MI patients (n=12) from day 2 through day 90 post-MI. Selected miRs (miR-1, miR-21, miR-29a, miR-133a, and miR-208) were measured using quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and normalized for endogenous small nuclear RNA U6. After MI, LV end-diastolic volume increased progressively compared with CTL; this was accompanied by time-dependent changes in specific miRs. For example, miR-21 initially decreased 2 days post-MI (0.3±0.1-fold versus CTL;
P
<0.05), increased 5 days post-MI (2±1-fold versus CTL;
P
<0.05), and returned to CTL values at later post-MI time points. In contrast, miR-29a increased 5 days post-MI (4±1-fold versus CTL;
P
<0.05) and then decreased to CTL at later time points. miR-208 increased 5 days post-MI (3±1-fold versus CTL;
P
<0.05) and remained elevated up to 90 days post-MI.

Conclusions—
A time-dependent change in miRs occurred in post-MI patients, including an early and robust increase in miRs that has affected myocardial growth, fibrosis, and viability. Thus, serially profiling miRs in the plasma of post-MI patients may hold both mechanistic and prognostic significance.
Role of Cardiac Stem Cells in Cardiac Pathophysiology: A Paradigm Shift in Human Myocardial Biology
Authors: Leri Annarosa , Kajstura Jan , Anversa Piero 
Published: September 2011

RETRACTION
This article has been retracted:

Circ Res
. 2018;123:e00. DOI: 10.1161/RES.0000000000000248.
Neural Evidence for a Distinction between Short-term Memory and the Focus of Attention
Authors: Lewis-Peacock Jarrod A. , Drysdale Andrew T. , Oberauer Klaus , Postle Bradley R. 
Published: September 2011

Abstract
It is widely assumed that the short-term retention of information is accomplished via maintenance of an active neural trace. However, we demonstrate that memory can be preserved across a brief delay despite the apparent loss of sustained representations. Delay period activity may, in fact, reflect the focus of attention, rather than STM. We unconfounded attention and memory by causing external and internal shifts of attention away from items that were being actively retained. Multivariate pattern analysis of fMRI indicated that only items within the focus of attention elicited an active neural trace. Activity corresponding to representations of items outside the focus quickly dropped to baseline. Nevertheless, this information was remembered after a brief delay. Our data also show that refocusing attention toward a previously unattended memory item can reactivate its neural signature. The loss of sustained activity has long been thought to indicate a disruption of STM, but our results suggest that, even for small memory loads not exceeding the capacity limits of STM, the active maintenance of a stimulus representation may not be necessary for its short-term retention.
Social work, ideology, discourse and the limits of post-hegemony
Authors: Carey Malcolm , Foster Victoria 
Published: September 2011

•  Summary: This article critically examines the problematic status of ideology (and discourse) with regard to social work, and, in relation, questions any contested elevation of sociological theories which suggest we now live in a ‘post-hegemonic’ age. Three types of ideology relating to social work are explored, and it is proposed that such case examples (among others) have, and continue to, maintain a significant influence within state social work. Examples include the role of science, neo-liberalism and professionalism. Each is examined through the work of Althusser, Gramsci and Foucault to underline their significance. •  Findings: Within social work there is evidence to support aspects of the social or political fragmentary trends stressed by advocates of a post-hegemony thesis. However, here it is argued instead that reliance upon hegemony has actually increased rather than disappeared as social work has become less structured, more uncertain and increasingly dependent upon unpredictable markets of social care. •  Applications: Critical yet careful analysis of the relationship between ideology and social work can help us to increase understanding of social work practice and education.
Effectiveness of an Ultrasound Training Module for Internal Medicine Residents
Authors: Keddis Mira T , Cullen Michael W , Reed Darcy A , Halvorsen Andrew J , McDonald Furman S , Takahashi Paul Y , Bhagra Anjali 
Published: September 2011

Abstract

Background
Few internal medicine residency programs provide formal ultrasound training. This study sought to assess the feasibility of simulation based ultrasound training among first year internal medicine residents and measure their comfort at effectively using ultrasound to perform invasive procedures before and after this innovative model of ultrasound training.

Methods
A simulation based ultrasound training module was implemented during intern orientation that incorporated didactic and practical experiences in a simulation and cadaver laboratory. Participants completed anonymous pre and post surveys in which they reported their level of confidence in the use of ultrasound technology and their comfort in identifying anatomic structures including: lung, pleural effusion, bowel, peritoneal cavity, ascites, thyroid, and internal jugular vein. Survey items were structured on a 5-point Likert scales (1 = extremely unconfident, 5 = extremely confident).

Results
Seventy-five out of seventy-six interns completed the pre-intervention survey and 55 completed the post-survey. The mean confidence score (SD) increased to 4.00 (0.47) (p < 0.0001). The mean (SD) comfort ranged from 3.61 (0.84) for peritoneal cavity to 4.48 (0.62) for internal jugular vein. Confidence in identifying all anatomic structures showed an increase over the pre-intervention means (p < 0.002).

Conclusion
A simulation based ultrasound learning module can improve the self-reported confidence with which residents identify structures important in performing invasive ultrasound guided procedures. Incorporating an ultrasound module into residents' education may address perceived need for ultrasound training, improve procedural skills, and enhance patient safety.
Lack of adaptation to human tetherin in HIV-1 Group O and P
Authors: Yang Su Jung , Lopez Lisa A , Exline Colin M , Haworth Kevin G , Cannon Paula M 
Published: September 2011

Abstract

Background
HIV-1 viruses are categorized into four distinct groups: M, N, O and P. Despite the same genomic organization, only the group M viruses are responsible for the world-wide pandemic of AIDS, suggesting better adaptation to human hosts. Previously, it has been reported that the group M Vpu protein is capable of both down-modulating CD4 and counteracting BST-2/tetherin restriction, while the group O Vpu cannot antagonize tetherin. This led us to investigate if group O, and the related group P viruses, possess functional anti-tetherin activities in Vpu or another viral protein, and to further map the residues required for group M Vpu to counteract human tetherin.

Results
We found a lack of activity against human tetherin for both the Vpu and Nef proteins from group O and P viruses. Furthermore, we found no evidence of anti-human tetherin activity in a fully infectious group O proviral clone, ruling out the possibility of an alternative anti-tetherin factor in this virus. Interestingly, an activity against primate tetherins was retained in the Nef proteins from both a group O and a group P virus. By making chimeras between a functional group M and non-functional group O Vpu protein, we were able to map the first 18 amino acids of group M Vpu as playing an essential role in the ability of the protein to antagonize human tetherin. We further demonstrated the importance of residue alanine-18 for the group M Vpu activity. This residue lies on a diagonal face of conserved alanines in the TM domain of the protein, and is necessary for specific Vpu-tetherin interactions.

Conclusions
The absence of human specific anti-tetherin activities in HIV-1 group O and P suggests a failure of these viruses to adapt to human hosts, which may have limited their spread.
Lipid Rafts Control P2X3 Receptor Distribution and Function in Trigeminal Sensory Neurons of a Transgenic Migraine Mouse Model
Authors: Gnanasekaran Aswini , Sundukova Mayya , van den Maagdenberg Arn MJM , Fabbretti Elsa , Nistri Andrea 
Published: September 2011

Background: A genetic knock-in mouse model expressing the R192Q mutation of the α1-subunit of the CaV2.1 channels frequently found in patients with familial hemiplegic migraine shows functional upregulation of ATP-sensitive P2X3 receptors of trigeminal sensory neurons that transduce nociceptive inputs to the brainstem. In an attempt to understand the basic mechanisms linked to the upregulation of P2X3 receptor activity, we investigated the influence of the lipid domain of these trigeminal sensory neurons on receptor compartmentalization and function. Results: Knock-in neurons were strongly enriched with lipid rafts containing a larger fraction of P2X3 receptors at membrane level. Pretreatment with the CaV2.1 channel blocker ω-agatoxin significantly decreased the lipid raft content of KI membranes. After pharmacologically disrupting the cholesterol component of lipid rafts, P2X3 receptors became confined to non-raft compartments and lost their functional potentiation typically observed in KI neurons with whole-cell patch-clamp recording. Following cholesterol depletion, all P2X3 receptor currents decayed more rapidly and showed delayed recovery indicating that alteration of the lipid raft milieu reduced the effectiveness of P2X3 receptor signalling and changed their desensitization process. Kinetic modeling could reproduce the observed data when slower receptor activation was simulated and entry into desensitization was presumed to be faster. Conclusions: The more abundant lipid raft compartment of knock-in neurons was enriched in P2X3 receptors that exhibited stronger functional responses. These results suggest that the membrane microenvironment of trigeminal sensory neurons is an important factor in determining sensitization of P2X3 receptors and could contribute to a migraine phenotype by enhancing ATP-mediated responses.
Chemerin activates fibroblast-like synoviocytes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kaneko Kayoko , Miyabe Yoshishige , Takayasu Aiko , Fukuda Shin , Miyabe Chie , Ebisawa Masashi , Yokoyama Waka , Watanabe Kaori , Imai Toshio , Muramoto Kenzo , Terashima Yuya , Sugihara Takahiko , Matsushima Kouji , Miyasaka Nobuyuki , Nanki Toshihiro 
Published: September 2011

Abstract

Introduction

Chemerin is a chemotactic agonist identified as a ligand for ChemR23 that is expressed on macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs). In this study, we analyzed the expression of chemerin and ChemR23 in the synovium of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and the stimulatory effects of chemerin on fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) from RA patients.

Methods

Chemerin and ChemR23 expression in the RA synovium was ascertained by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. Chemerin expression on cultured FLSs was analyzed by ELISA. ChemR23 expression on FLSs was determined by immunocytochemistry and Western blot analysis. Cytokine production from FLSs was measured by ELISA. FLS cell motility was evaluated by utilizing a scrape motility assay. We also examined the stimulating effect of chemerin on the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK1/2), p38MAPK, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)1/2 and Akt, as well as on the degradation of regulator of NF-κB (IκBα) in FLSs, by Western blot analysis.

Results

Chemerin was expressed on endothelial cells and synovial lining and sublining cells. ChemR23 was expressed on macrophages, immature DCs and FLSs and a few mature DCs in the RA synovium. Chemerin and ChemR23 were highly expressed in the RA synovium compared with osteoarthritis. Chemerin and ChemR23 were expressed on unstimulated FLSs. TNF-α and IFN-γ upregulated chemerin production. Chemerin enhanced the production of IL-6, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 and matrix metalloproteinase 3 by FLSs, as well as increasing FLS motility. The stimulatory effects of chemerin on FLSs were mediated by activation of ERK1/2, p38MAPK and Akt, but not by JNK1/2. Degradation of IκB in FLSs was not promoted by chemerin stimulation. Inhibition of the ERK1/2, p38MAPK and Akt signaling pathways significantly suppressed chemerin-induced IL-6 production. Moreover, blockade of the p38MAPK and Akt pathways, but not the ERK1/2 pathway, inhibited chemerin-enhanced cell motility.

Conclusions

The interaction of chemerin and ChemR23 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of RA through the activation of FLSs.
Experimental Investigation of Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of New Steels for Large Blooms
Authors: Ghidini A. , Gerosa R. , Silva G. , Rivolta B. , Pinasco M. R. , Ienco M. G. , Pastore Elisa , Firrao D. 
Published: September 2011

Abstract
In the automotive world, more and more components are produced by polymer injections using steel moulds reaching very large sizes, up to 1 m × 1 m sections or even more. These steels should have good thermal conductivity, good weldability, high machinability (especially for deep drilling), and good disposition to polishing and photoengraving. Moreover, high toughness, hardness, wear, and fatigue resistance across the whole thickness of the mould are strongly required. For satisfying these demands, chemical composition and heat treatment cycles of the steel shall be properly designed and optimized. In this paper two mould steels, which were recently developed, were experimentally investigated. Samples were machined from the surface and the core of each bloom and a full mechanical and microstructural analysis was carried out. The tensile properties at room temperature and at high temperature were investigated, together with the fracture toughness. All the obtained results were compared with the traditional and reference ISO 1.2738 mould steel. Moreover, dilatometric tests were performed to investigate the specific microstructural transformations during continuous cooling and isothermal treatments. The obtained results show good mechanical strengths for the whole thickness of the blooms associated with adequate toughness parameters. Finally, results were related to microstructural.
Mechanical Properties of ASTM A283 Carbon Steel Subjected to the Sulphidation Process
Authors: Alexandre da Silva Cléber , Aparecido Moreto Jéferson , Villarino de Castro Danilo Borges , de Araújo Ponte Haroldo 
Published: September 2011

Abstract
This work presents a survey of the mechanical properties (hardness and modulus of elasticity), tribology (friction coefficient and wear rate), and metallography analysis of the ASTM A283 carbon steel subjected to the sulphidation process. The samples were submitted to the sulphidation process at an atmosphere with 0.2 % H2S (hydrogen sulphide) and 98.8 % H2 (hydrogen gas) for different time (5,10, 20, 60, and 120 min)at 300°C. After exposure to sulphidation environment the growth kinetics was analyzed. The results obtained with the sulphidation process indicate that the ASTM A283 carbon steel follows a parabolic law with a equilibrium constant in terms of pressure Kp = 1.47· × 10−12 g2 cm−4 s−1 for the material analyzed. The experimental results for the hardness and surface modulus of the samples show an increase in the values for the sulphide sample for 120 min.
Characteristics of Base Fluid in Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants
Authors: Kusak Brian , Wright Greg , Krol Ron , Bailey Matt 
Published: September 2011

Abstract
The main component in environmentally acceptable lubricants and grease is the base fluid. Typically it comprises greater than 70% of grease and 90% of a lubricant. Many biodegradable fluids have specific characteristics, which make formulating finished products difficult. Through a stepwise approach these characteristics will be discussed. The fluids for testing will comprise natural and synthetic esters and some petroleum based synthetics. The testing will find the extremes of performance at high and low temperatures and the effects of common additives to improve performance. Testing will include pour point, elastomer compatibility, oxidation and thermal stability. Based on the testing a blended fluid will be made to offset the drawbacks of the individual fluids and the performance discussed. This blend will serve as the base fluid to formulate an environmentally acceptable lubricating grease.
Experiences with ASTM D02 Practices D4378 and D6224 for Turbine Oils and Auxiliary Power Plant Equipment Condition Monitoring Programs
Authors: Wardlow Andrea , Ameye Jo 
Published: September 2011

Abstract
Condition monitoring practices ASTM D4378 [2011, “Section Five, Petroleum Products, Lubricants, and Fossil Fuels,” Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol. 05.02, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA] and ASTM D6224 [2009, “Standard Practice for In-Service Monitoring of Lubricating Oil for Auxiliary Power Plant Equipment,” Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol. 05.02, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA] are important activities at the SC C00 as they are the benchmark today in the power generation industry for condition monitoring and maintenance practices. With the need for increased equipment and plant efficiency in the modern economy, these methods contribute to an improved reliability and better utilization of modern turbine lubricants. In conjunction with the latest ASTM D4303 [Annual Book of ASTM Standards, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA] (the new turbine oil specification) these methods help the end-users to better understand the condition of their in-service lubricants and by turning them into immediate maintenance actions. This paper will include a few case studies, presenting the different experiences with the integration of these in-service practices, and how they are evolving with the original equipment manufacturers’ equipment developments and turbine lube oil developments.
Electrical Conductance Methods for Locating Leaks in Roofing and Waterproof Membranes
Authors: Vokey David , Townsend Duncan 
Published: September 2011

Abstract
Undetected roof leaks and the subsequent deterioration are considered one of the primary causes of premature roof failure. This paper shows the need for a systematic procedure to test, verify, and monitor the integrity of roofing and waterproof membranes using low voltage electrical conductance measurement methods to locate leaks in membranes. The methods described are particularly useful for roof designs that incorporate a membrane under a vegetative, wear-course, or topping slab where direct inspection of the membrane is difficult or impossible.
Clean-up of Oil Pollution at Sea
Authors: Morris P. R. 
Published: September 2011

Abstract
The available methods for the clean-up of oil (and certain chemical) spills at sea are considered and recent developments in two fields namely, dispersant application and oil recovery, covered in detail.
The application of dispersants is shown to be restricted by the viscosity of the oil on the water which increases rapidly due to oil in water emulsion formation. Samples of oil emulsion recovered of the water can show poor response to dispersants when the viscosity increases to about 7,500-10,000 cP depending on the dispersant used and the nature of the crude oil. Differences in dispersant performance can be shown by use of a laboratory test.
The development and limitations of recovery systems are considered with reference to the Springsweep system. Mention is made to netting systems for use with oils which are semi solid on the surface of the water.