bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Asking the right questions: developing evidence-based strategies for treating HIV in women and children
Authors: Karim Quarraisha Abdool , Banegura Anchilla , Cahn Pedro , Christie Celia DC , Dintruff Robert , Distel Manuel , Hankins Catherine , Hellmann Nicholas , Katabira Elly , Lehrman Sandra , Montaner Julio , Purdon Scott , Rooney James F , Wood Robin , Heidari Shirin 
Published: May 2011

Abstract
In July 2010, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued formal revisions of its guidelines on the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy for HIV. The new guidelines greatly expand eligibility for treatment of adults and children, as well as for pregnant women seeking prophylaxis for vertical HIV transmission. WHO's new recommendations bring the guidelines closer to practices in developed countries, and its shift to earlier treatment alone will increase the number of treatment-eligible people by 50% or more.
Scaling up access to HIV treatment is revealing important gaps in our understanding of how best to provide for all those in need. This knowledge gap is especially significant in developing countries, where women and children comprise a majority of those living with HIV infection. Given the magnitude and significance of these populations, the International AIDS Society, through its Industry Liaison Forum, prioritized HIV treatment and prophylaxis of women and children. In March 2010, the International AIDS Society and 15 partners launched a Consensus Statement outlining priority areas in which a relative lack of knowledge impedes delivery of optimal prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) and treatment to women and children.
The Consensus Statement, "Asking the Right Questions: Advancing an HIV Research Agenda for Women and Children", makes a special appeal for a more gender-sensitive approach to HIV research at all stages, from conception to design and implementation. It particularly emphasizes research to enhance the understanding of sex-based differences and paediatric needs in treatment uptake and response. In addition to clinical issues, the statement focuses on programmatic research that facilitates access and adherence to antiretroviral regimens. Better coordination of HIV management with sexual and reproductive healthcare delivery is one such approach.
We discuss here our knowledge gaps concerning effective, safe PMTCT and treatment for women and children in light of the expansion envisioned by WHO's revised guidelines. The guideline's new goals present an opportunity for advancing the women and children's agenda outlined in the Consensus Statement.
An open source web application for the surveillance and prevention of the impacts on public health of extreme meteorological events: the SUPREME system
Authors: Toutant Steve , Gosselin Pierre , Bélanger Diane , Bustinza Ray , Rivest Sonia 
Published: May 2011

Abstract

Background
Every year, many deaths or health problems are directly linked to heat waves. Consequently, numerous jurisdictions around the world have developed intervention plans that are employed during extreme heat events; beyond their emergency sections, these plans generally include preventive measures to be implemented each year. Over the last five years, local and regional information systems have been implemented in a few Canadian cities for surveillance purposes. However, until recently, no such systems existed at the provincial level. In the context of the Government of Quebec's 2006-2012 Action Plan on Climate Change, a real-time integrated system for the surveillance and monitoring of extreme heat events has been implemented on a provincial level. The system is a component of a broader approach that would also monitor the public health impacts of all types of extreme meteorological events.

Results
After conducting a detailed needs analysis, the Quebec National Institute for Public Health developed and implemented an integrated web application leveraging open source software for the real-time Surveillance and Prevention of the impacts of Extreme Meteorological Events on public health, called the SUPREME system. Its first field use involved heat waves. This decision-support system is based on open source software and is composed of four modules: (1) data acquisition and integration, (2) risk analysis and alerts, (3), cartographic application, and (4) information dissemination - climate change and health portal. The system is available to health specialists through a secure web information portal and provides access to weather forecasts, historic and real-time indicators (including deaths and hospital admissions), alerts and various cartographic data used for conducting prevention activities and launching emergency measures.

Conclusions
The SUPREME system was implemented and used during the summer of 2010. It served as an important decision-making tool during the July 2010 heat wave in the province of Quebec, Canada. Planned improvements for 2011 include the integration of data related to other risk factors for other extreme events to the system. The next steps will be to provide access to the application to other groups of specialists that are involved in the prevention, monitoring, or analysis of extreme meteorological events and their effects on community health and well-being.
Improving Detection Accuracy of Lung Cancer Serum Proteomic Profiling via Two-Stage Training Process
Authors: Hsu Pei-Sung , Wang Yu-Shan , Huang Su-Chen , Lin Yi-Hsien , Chang Chih-Chia , Tsang Yuk-Wah , Jiang Jiunn-Song , Kao Shang-Jyh , Uen Wu-Ching , Chi Kwan-Hwa 
Published: May 2011

Abstract

Background
Surface-Enhanced Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (SELDI-TOF-MS) is a frequently used technique for cancer biomarker research. The specificity of biomarkers detected by SELDI can be influenced by concomitant inflammation. This study aimed to increase detection accuracy using a two-stage analysis process.

Methods
Sera from 118 lung cancer patients, 72 healthy individuals, and 31 patients with inflammatory disease were randomly divided into training and testing groups by 3:2 ratio. In the training group, the traditional method of using SELDI profile analysis to directly distinguish lung cancer patients from sera was used. The two-stage analysis of distinguishing the healthy people and non-healthy patients (1st-stage) and then differentiating cancer patients from inflammatory disease patients (2nd-stage) to minimize the influence of inflammation was validated in the test group.

Results
In the test group, the one-stage method had 87.2% sensitivity, 37.5% specificity, and 64.4% accuracy. The two-stage method had lower sensitivity (> 70.1%) but statistically higher specificity (80%) and accuracy (74.7%). The predominantly expressed protein peak at 11480 Da was the primary splitter regardless of one- or two-stage analysis. This peak was suspected to be SAA (Serum Amyloid A) due to the similar m/z countered around this area. This hypothesis was further tested using an SAA ELISA assay.

Conclusions
Inflammatory disease can severely interfere with the detection accuracy of SELDI profiles for lung cancer. Using a two-stage training process will improve the specificity and accuracy of detecting lung cancer.
Thickness-dependent optimization of Er3+ light emission from silicon-rich silicon oxide thin films
Authors: Cueff Sébastien , Labbé Christophe , Jambois Olivier , Garrido Blas , Portier Xavier , Rizk Richard 
Published: May 2011

Abstract
This study investigates the influence of the film thickness on the silicon-excess-mediated sensitization of Erbium ions in Si-rich silica. The Er3+ photoluminescence at 1.5 μm, normalized to the film thickness, was found five times larger for films 1 μm-thick than that from 50-nm-thick films intended for electrically driven devices. The origin of this difference is shared by changes in the local density of optical states and depth-dependent interferences, and by limited formation of Si-based sensitizers in "thin" films, probably because of the prevailing high stress. More Si excess has significantly increased the emission from "thin" films, up to ten times. This paves the way to the realization of highly efficient electrically excited devices.
Standardized positive controls for detection of norovirus by reverse transcription PCR
Authors: Lee Sung-Geun , Lee Soe-Hyun , Park Seung-Won , Suh Chang-Il , Jheong Weon-Hwa , Oh SeHwan , Paik Soon-Young 
Published: May 2011

Abstract

Background
Norovirus is one of the most common causes of nonbacterial gastroenteritis in humans. Rapid spread by contaminated food and person-to-person transmission through the fecal-oral route are characteristics of norovirus epidemiology and result in high morbidity in vulnerable patient populations. Therefore, detection of norovirus is a major public health concern. Currently, the most common method for detecting and differentiating among norovirus strains in clinical and environmental samples is reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). Standardized positive controls used in RT-PCR assays to detect norovirus are designed to overcome the problem of false-negative results due to PCR inhibitors and suboptimal reaction conditions.

Results
In the current study, four types of RNA transcripts were produced from plasmids: norovirus GI-5 and GII-4 capsid regions with human rotavirus (VP7 gene derived) fragment insertions, and norovirus GI-6 and GII-4 capsid regions with hepatitis A virus (VP1/P2A gene derived) fragment insertions. These size-distinguishable products were used as positive controls under the RT-PCR assay conditions used to detect NoV in stool and groundwater samples. Their reliability and reproducibility was confirmed by multiple sets of experiments.

Conclusions
These standardized products may contribute to the reliable and accurate diagnosis by RT-PCR of norovirus outbreaks, when conducted by laboratories located in different regions.
Total knee arthroplasty using a hybrid navigation technique
Authors: Ong Alvin , Jung Kwang Am , Orozco Fabio , Delasotta Lawrence , Lee Dong Won 
Published: May 2011

AbstractThe use of computer navigation is becoming a well-recognized technical alternative to conventional total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, computer navigation has a substantial learning curve and the use of commercially available navigation systems increases surgical time. In addition, the potential risks associated with the navigation TKA, such as, registration errors, notching of the anterior femoral cortex, oversizing of the femoral component, and overresection must be taken into consideration. On the other hand, conventional techniques are familiar and intuitive to most practicing surgeons, and thus, are easier to perform and are less prone to anterior notching and femoral component oversizing. However, conventional techniques have greater risks of inaccurate and inconsistent component alignment than computer navigation. This paper describes a novel technique that combines computer navigation and conventional TKA.
Neuronal migration defects in the Loa dynein mutant mouse
Authors: Ori-McKenney Kassandra M , Vallee Richard B 
Published: May 2011

Abstract

Background
Cytoplasmic dynein and its regulatory proteins have been implicated in neuronal and non-neuronal cell migration. A genetic model for analyzing the role of cytoplasmic dynein specifically in these processes has, however, been lacking. The Loa (Legs at odd angles) mouse with a mutation in the dynein heavy chain has been the focus of an increasing number of studies for its role in neuron degeneration. Despite the location of this mutation in the tail domain of the dynein heavy chain, we previously found a striking effect on coordination between the two dynein motor domains, resulting in a defect in dynein run length in vitro and in vivo.

Results
We have now tested for effects of the Loa mutation on neuronal migration in the developing neocortex. Loa homozygotes showed clear defects in neocortical lamination and neuronal migration resulting from a reduction in the rate of radial migration of bipolar neurons.

Conclusions
These results present a new genetic model for understanding the dynein pathway and its functions during neuronal migration. They also provide the first evidence for a link between dynein processivity and somal movement, which is essential for proper development of the brain.
Half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy for bullous variant of central serous chorioretinopathy: a case report
Authors: Ng Winnie WK , Wu Zenith HY , Lai Timothy YY 
Published: May 2011

Abstract

Introduction
Central serous chorioretinopathy is characterized by serous neurosensory detachment of the macula and it usually resolves spontaneously with good visual prognosis. In some patients, however, the serous retinal detachment might be very extensive and can result in bullous exudative retinal detachment. We evaluated the use of half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy for the treatment of bullous retinal detachment in idiopathic central serous chorioretinopathy.

Case presentation
We report the case of a 51-year-old Chinese man who presented with blurred vision in his right eye and superior visual field defect due to bullous variant of central serous chorioretinopathy. No improvement in vision and retinal detachment was noted after three months of observation and a short course of oral acetazolamide. He was then treated with half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy and his visual acuity improved from 20/70 to 20/25 within one month of treatment. Three months after photodynamic therapy, there was complete resolution of sub-retinal fluid and bullous retinal detachment. No recurrence of central serous chorioretinopathy was noted in three years of follow-up.

Conclusion
We report the beneficial effect of photodynamic therapy with half-dose verteporfin as a treatment option for bullous retinal detachment caused by central serous chorioretinopathy.
A high resolution map of a cyanobacterial transcriptome
Authors: Vijayan Vikram , Jain Isha H , O'Shea Erin K 
Published: May 2011

Abstract
Background
Previous molecular and mechanistic studies have identified several principles of prokaryotic transcription, but less is known about the global transcriptional architecture of bacterial genomes. Here we perform a comprehensive study of a cyanobacterial transcriptome, that of Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942, generated by combining three high-resolution data sets: RNA sequencing, tiling expression microarrays, and RNA polymerase chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing.

Results
We report absolute transcript levels, operon identification, and high-resolution mapping of 5' and 3' ends of transcripts. We identify several interesting features at promoters, within transcripts and in terminators relating to transcription initiation, elongation, and termination. Furthermore, we identify many putative non-coding transcripts.

Conclusions
We provide a global analysis of a cyanobacterial transcriptome. Our results uncover insights that reinforce and extend the current views of bacterial transcription.
Hydrogen Absorption Mechanism of Zirconium Alloys Based on Characterization of Oxide Layer
Authors: Une K. , Sakamoto K. , Aomi M. , Matsunaga J. , Etoh Y. , Takagi I. , Miyamura S. , Kobayashi T. , Ito K. 
Published: May 2011

Abstract
In order to get a better understanding of the mechanism governing hydrogen absorption behavior in Zr-based alloys, various characterization techniques were applied to the oxide layers of three alloys: Zry-2, GNF-Ziron (Zry-2-based alloy with ∼0.26 wt % Fe), and VB (Zr-based alloy containing ∼0.5 wt % Sn, ∼0.5 wt % Fe, and ∼1 wt % Cr). Out-of-pile corrosion tests were carried out in 400 °C steam and 290 °C LiOH water. For both tests, the hydrogen absorption decreased with higher iron content in the alloys, in the order of Zry-2&gt;GNF-Ziron&gt;VB, despite different kinetics of a parabolic law in the former test and a linear law in the latter test. The acceleration of hydrogen absorption in the LiOH water was ascribed to the formation of degraded or open grain boundaries up to locations very near the metal/oxide interface. The pre-transition steam oxides of 1.4–1.7 μm had a double layer structure composed of the outside non-protective oxide of monoclinic ZrO2 with faster diffusivity and the inside barrier layer of predominantly tetragonal ZrO2 with slower diffusivity. The thickness of the barrier layer of about 0.8–0.9 μm was not changed for the different alloys. The diffusion coefficient of deuterium in the VB oxide was approximately half of that in the GNF-Ziron oxide. This factor for the diffusivity was consistent with their hydrogen pickup performance. The higher compressive stress in the barrier layer was directly linked to the higher hydrogen pickup resistance of the alloys. Preferential dissolution of alloy elements from the second-phase particles (SPPs) into the oxide matrix was evinced for iron, and was very limited for chromium and nickel. These two elements had a tendency to exist as precipitates in the oxide layers, chromium mainly as oxide, and nickel mainly as metal. The superior hydrogen absorption performance of VB containing higher iron content and the SPPs with larger size and number density was attributable to the dissolved iron effect and higher compressive stress state generated from the delayed oxidation of the SPPs in the barrier layer.
Superheavy element studies with preseparated isotopes
Authors: Düllmann Christoph E. 
Published: May 2011

Abstract
In recent years, significant progress in the field of superheavy element research has been achieved thanks to a novel combination of techniques from different fields. This “physical preseparation” approach includes the coupling of an ancillary setup – typically a chemistry apparatus or a counting setup – to a physical recoil separator. This latter preseparator removes unwanted nuclear reaction products as well as the intense heavy-ion beam associated with superheavy element experiments and thus isolates the evaporation residues of the nuclear fusion reactions. These are guided to the separators's focal plane, where they are extracted and available for further transport to external setups, e.g., by a gas-jet. In this overview, the development of physical preseparation is described, and experimental results from nuclear chemistry and physics that were achieved with “preseparated” isotopes are summarized, with an emphasis on results relevant for superheavy element research. The covered topics range from chemical studies in the liquid as well as in the gas phase, the measurement of nuclear decay properties and of atomic masses. Preseparation was already shown to be a very powerful approach in these studies and promises to allow further progress in superheavy element research.
Theoretical description of superheavy nuclei
Authors: Sobiczewski Adam 
Published: May 2011

AbstractA short review of the studies of superheavy nuclei (SHN), done recently in our theoretical group of Warsaw, is presented. Main attention is given to description of the properties of SHN. The description is performed by macroscopic–microscopic methods. Such properties as mass,α-decay energy andα-decay half-life are considered. Special attention is devoted to the analysis of the half-life. Although mainly treated in a phenomenological way, the role of the microscopic structure of a nucleus in this quantity is tested. It is found that this structure may significantly change the half-life of nuclei with the odd nucleon (or nucleons).
Prestressing of bridges in Germany up to 1965: part 1
Authors: Pelke Eberhard 
Published: May 2011

The success of prestressed concrete bridges in Germany began with the first pilot projects before World War II. After the war, a time period of 20 years was sufficient to dominate the road bridge market. Six nuclei made vital contributions to the success of the prestressed concrete bridge, and the first two of these are discussed in this paper. The remaining four nuclei will be presented later in a companion paper. The development of prestressed concrete bridges is divided into two main periods. The years between 1945 and 1965 are examined from all aspects. A more detailed look at the early time before 1945 helps to explain the first prestressed structures of the post-war period.
Does Mandated Disclosure Induce a Structural Change in the Determinants of Nonaudit Service Purchases?
Authors: Abbott Lawrence J. , Parker, and Susan , Peters Gary F. 
Published: May 2011

SUMMARY
We investigate the association between mandated fee disclosures and structural changes in the determinants of nonaudit services (NAS). The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) underscored the importance of understanding the impact of disclosures when the Auditor Independence Rules of 2000 explicitly relied on market responses to discipline NAS purchases. In contrast, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX) relied upon prohibitions of NAS. Our findings suggest that market-based approaches were functioning prior to SOX prohibitions. We find that after the SEC mandated fee disclosures, NAS purchases become negatively associated with firms seeking financing and positively associated with managerial ownership. We also document a significantly smaller propensity for NAS purchases among larger firms, compared to a nondisclosure environment. Last, we find that mandated disclosures significantly increase the negative association between NAS purchases and effective audit committees. Collectively, our findings are consistent with mandated disclosures increasing agency cost incentives for limiting NAS purchases.
Data Availability: The data are available from public sources.
The Auditor's Going-Concern Opinion as a Communication of Risk
Authors: Blay Allen D. , Geiger Marshall A. , North David S. 
Published: May 2011

SUMMARY
In this study, we examine the proposition that the auditor's going-concern modified opinion is a valuable risk communication to the equity market that results in a shift of the market's perception of financially distressed firms. Specifically, our analyses reveal that the market valuation is significantly altered from a focus on both the income statement and balance sheet to a balance sheet-only focus in the year a company receives a first-time going-concern modified opinion. These results hold even after controlling for several common measures of financial distress and when examining a larger control sample of distressed firms. We also document that the market devalues a company's inventory and places increased weight on cash, receivables, and long-term assets and liabilities as a result of the auditor's modification. This indicates that the going-concern modification provides incremental information specifically related to abandonment or adaptation risk. Our results provide evidence that the market interprets the going-concern modified audit opinion as an important communication of risk that results in a substantial shift in the structure of the market valuation for distressed firms.
Data Availability: All data are available from public sources.
JEL Classifications: M41.