bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
FRET microscopy autologous tumor lysate processing in mature dendritic cell vaccine therapy
Authors: Fiammenghi Laura , Ancarani Valentina , Rosales Tilman , Knutson Jay R , Petrini Massimiliano , Granato Anna Maria , Pancisi Elena , Ridolfi Laura , Ridolfi Ruggero , Riccobon Angela , Neyroz Paolo 
Published: June 2010

Abstract

Background
Antigen processing by dendritic cells (DC) exposed to specific stimuli has been well characterized in biological studies. Nonetheless, the question of whether autologous whole tumor lysates (as used in clinical trials) are similarly processed by these cells has not yet been resolved.

Methods
In this study, we examined the transfer of peptides from whole tumor lysates to major histocompatibility complex class II molecules (MHC II) in mature dendritic cells (mDC) from a patient with advanced melanoma. Tumor antigenic peptides-MHC II proximity was revealed by Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) measurements, which effectively extends the application of fluorescence microscopy to the molecular level (<100Å). Tumor lysates were labelled with Alexa-488, as the donor, and mDC MHC II HLA-DR molecules were labelled with Alexa-546-conjugated IgG, as the acceptor.

Results
We detected significant energy transfer between donor and acceptor-labelled antibodies against HLA-DR at the membrane surface of mDC. FRET data indicated that fluorescent peptide-loaded MHC II molecules start to accumulate on mDC membranes at 16 hr from the maturation stimulus, steeply increasing at 22 hr with sustained higher FRET detected up to 46 hr.

Conclusions
The results obtained imply that the patient mDC correctly processed the tumor specific antigens and their display on the mDC surface may be effective for several days. These observations support the rationale for immunogenic efficacy of autologous tumor lysates.
Patterns of pulmonary dysfunction in asbestos workers: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Abejie Belayneh A , Wang Xiaorong , Kales Stefanos N , Christiani David C 
Published: June 2010

Abstract

Background
Restrictive patterns of pulmonary function abnormalities associated with asbestos exposure are well described. Studies are less consistent, however, regarding the association of asbestos inhalation with airway dysfunction and obstructive impairment.

Methods
We compared pulmonary function test results between 277 chrysotile exposed workers (22% non-smokers) and 177 unexposed controls (50.3% non-smokers). Information on exposure and smoking were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Standardized spirometric and DCLO Measurement methods were utilized. CXRs were read based on ILO pneumoconiosis guidelines.

Results
Asbestos exposed subjects had significantly reduced FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC and DLCO. Restricting the analysis to non-smokers, asbestos workers still had about 3% lower FEV1/FVC ratio than controls, but this difference did not reach statistical significance. Among exposed workers, the presence of radiographic evidence of asbestosis further lowered FVC and DLCO but not FEV1/FVC compared to asbestos exposure without radiographic asbestosis. Additionally, smoking asbestos workers had significantly lower DLCO compared to non-smoking workers.

Conclusion
Asbestos exposure, especially when radiographic evidence of interstitial fibrosis from asbestosis is present, leads to significant decreases in FVC, FEV1 and the DLCO. However, asbestos exposure alone is not significantly associated with a reduction of the FEV1/FVC. Smoking-asbestos workers had significantly lower DLCO than their non-smoking counterparts. Whether asbestos interacts with smoking additively or synergistically on DLCO needs further investigation. Similarly, further studies are needed to assess the progression and clinical significance of asbestos induced airway dysfunction.
SEURAT: Visual analytics for the integrated analysis of microarray data
Authors: Gribov Alexander , Sill Martin , Lück Sonja , Rücker Frank , Döhner Konstanze , Bullinger Lars , Benner Axel , Unwin Antony 
Published: June 2010

Abstract

Background
In translational cancer research, gene expression data is collected together with clinical data and genomic data arising from other chip based high throughput technologies. Software tools for the joint analysis of such high dimensional data sets together with clinical data are required.

Results
We have developed an open source software tool which provides interactive visualization capability for the integrated analysis of high-dimensional gene expression data together with associated clinical data, array CGH data and SNP array data. The different data types are organized by a comprehensive data manager. Interactive tools are provided for all graphics: heatmaps, dendrograms, barcharts, histograms, eventcharts and a chromosome browser, which displays genetic variations along the genome. All graphics are dynamic and fully linked so that any object selected in a graphic will be highlighted in all other graphics. For exploratory data analysis the software provides unsupervised data analytics like clustering, seriation algorithms and biclustering algorithms.

Conclusions
The SEURAT software meets the growing needs of researchers to perform joint analysis of gene expression, genomical and clinical data.
Effect of multiple micronutrient supplementation on survival of HIV‐infected children in Uganda: a randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Ndeezi Grace , Tylleskär Thorkild , Ndugwa Christopher M , Tumwine James K 
Published: June 2010

BackgroundMicronutrient deficiencies compromise the survival of HIV‐infected children in low‐income countries. We assessed the effect of multiple micronutrient supplementation on the mortality of HIV‐infected children in Uganda.MethodsIn a randomized, controlled trial, 847 children aged one to five years and attending HIV clinics in Uganda were stratified by antiretroviral therapy (ART, n = 85 versus no ART, n = 762). The children were randomized to six months of either: twice the recommended dietary allowance of 14 micronutrients as the intervention arm (vitamins A, B1, B2, niacin, B6, B12, C, D and E, folate, zinc, copper, iodine and selenium); or the standard recommended dietary allowance of six multivitamins (vitamins A, D2, B1, B2, C and niacin) as a comparative “standard‐of‐care” arm. Mortality was analyzed at 12 months of follow up using Kaplan Meier curves and the log rank test.ResultsMortality at 12 months was 25 out of 426 (5.9%) children in the intervention arm and 28 out of 421 (6.7%) in the comparative arms: risk ratio 0.9 (95% CI 0.5 ‐ 1.5). Two out of 85 (2.4%) children in the ART stratum died compared with 51 out of 762 (6.7%) in the non‐ART stratum. Of those who died in the non‐ART stratum, 25 of 383 (6.5%) were in the intervention arm and 26 of 379 (6.9%) in the comparative arm; risk ratio 1.0 (95% CI 0.6 ‐ 1.6). There was no significant difference in survival at 12 months (p = 0.64, log rank test). In addition, there was no significant difference in mean weight‐for‐height at 12 months; 0.70 ± 1.43 (95% CI 0.52 ‐ 0.88) for the intervention versus 0.59 ± 1.15 (95% CI 0.45 ‐ 0.75) in the comparative arm. The mean CD4 cell count; 1024 ± 592 (95% CI 942 ‐ 1107) versus 1060 ± 553 (95% CI 985 ‐ 1136) was also similar between the two groups.ConclusionsTwice the recommended dietary allowance of 14 micronutrients compared with a standard recommended dietary allowance of six multivitamins for six months was well tolerated, but it did not significantly alter mortality, growth or CD4 counts. Future intervention studies should carefully consider: (1) the composition and dosing of the supplements; and (2) the power needed to detect a difference between arms.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00122941
Preoperative diastolic function predicts the onset of left ventricular dysfunction following aortic valve replacement in high-risk patients with aortic stenosis
Authors: Licker Marc , Cikirikcioglu Mustafa , Inan Cidgem , Cartier Vanessa , Kalangos Afksendyios , Theologou Thomas , Cassina Tiziano , Diaper John 
Published: June 2010

Abstract
Introduction
Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction frequently occurs after cardiac surgery, requiring inotropic treatment and/or mechanical circulatory support. In this study, we aimed to identify clinical, surgical and echocardiographic factors that are associated with LV dysfunction during weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in high-risk patients undergoing valve replacement for aortic stenosis.

Methods
Perioperative data were prospectively collected in 108 surgical candidates with an expected operative mortality ≥9%. All anesthetic and surgical techniques were standardized. Reduced LV systolic function was defined by an ejection fraction <40%. Diastolic function of the LV was assessed using standard Doppler-derived parameters, tissue Doppler Imaging (TDI) and transmitral flow propagation velocity (Vp).

Results
Doppler-derived pulmonary flow indices and TDI could not be obtained in 14 patients. In the remaining 94 patients, poor systolic LV was documented in 14% (n = 12) and diastolic dysfunction in 84% of patients (n = 89), all of whom had Vp <50 cm/s. During weaning from CPB, 38 patients (40%) required inotropic and/or mechanical circulatory support. By multivariate regression analysis, we identified three independent predictors of LV systolic dysfunction: age (Odds ratio [OR] = 1.11; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.01 to 1.22), aortic clamping time (OR = 1.04; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.08) and Vp (OR = 0.65; 95% CI, 0.52 to 0.81). Among echocardiographic measurements, Vp was found to be superior in terms of prognostic value and reliability. The best cut-off value for Vp to predict LV dysfunction was 40 cm/s (sensitivity of 72% and specificity 94%). Patients who experienced LV dysfunction presented higher in-hospital mortality (18.4% vs. 3.6% in patients without LV dysfunction, P = 0.044) and an increased incidence of serious cardiac events (81.6 vs. 28.6%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions
This study provides the first evidence that, besides advanced age and prolonged myocardial ischemic time, LV diastolic dysfunction characterized by Vp ≤ 40 cm/sec identifies patients who will require cardiovascular support following valve replacement for aortic stenosis.
CSF-1, IGF-1, and the control of postnatal growth and development
Authors: Gow Deborah J , Sester David P , Hume David A 
Published: June 2010

Abstract
Review discusses macrophages as the major extrahepatic source of IGF-1, and how a surge of CSF-1 production contributes to the control of postnatal growth and organ maturation.
Growth hormone controls somatic growth in mammals by regulating the production of IGF-1, which is predominantly made by the liver. The development of cells within the MPS is controlled by the lineage-specific growth factor M-CSF (CSF-1). In this review, we summarize the role of CSF-1-dependent macrophages in somatic growth and organogenesis. We propose that macrophages are the major extrahepatic source of IGF-1 and that a surge of CSF-1 production contributes to the control of postnatal growth and organ maturation. Accordingly, CSF-1 may be considered a part of the GH/IGF-1 axis.
Hibernation: the immune system at rest?
Authors: Bouma Hjalmar R , Carey Hannah V , Kroese Frans G M 
Published: June 2010

Abstract
Review of mechanisms that might contribute to the fully reversible reduced immune function that is present during hibernation.
Mammalian hibernation consists of torpor phases when metabolism is severely depressed, and Tb can reach as low as approximately –2°C, interrupted by euthermic arousal phases. Hibernation affects the function of the innate and the adaptive immune systems. Torpor drastically reduces numbers of all types of circulating leukocytes. In addition, other changes have been noted, such as lower complement levels, diminished response to LPS, phagocytotic capacity, cytokine production, lymphocyte proliferation, and antibody production. Hibernation may therefore increase infection risk, as illustrated by the currently emerging WNS in hibernating bats. Unraveling the pathways that result in reduced immune function during hibernation will enhance our understanding of immunologic responses during extreme physiological changes in mammals.
Invasion of the leukocytes into the fetal-maternal interface during pregnancy
Authors: Gomez-Lopez Nardhy , Guilbert Larry J , Olson David M 
Published: June 2010

Abstract
Review of mechanisms of uterine leukocyte infiltration and the potential roles of each subpopulation of leukocytes in relation to pregnancy and parturition.
No other organ in the body undergoes such an invasion of selective cells (leukocytes) and release of homing molecules, CAMs, proinflammatory cytokines, and mediators or undergoes similar extensive remodeling of tissues over such a short period of time as the pregnant uterus. This is especially interesting, as an infectious process involving microorganisms does not exist in a healthy pregnancy and delivery. Furthermore, after delivery of the baby and placenta, the uterus involutes and returns to its normal monthly cycling, and most of the leukocytes are swept away or leave. In this review, we discuss leukocyte infiltration and recruitment and the potential roles of each subpopulation of leukocytes in relation to pregnancy and the problems of preterm birth, pre-eclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction.
UDP-galactose 4′ epimerase (GALE) is essential for development ofDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Sanders Rebecca D. , Sefton Jennifer M. I. , Moberg Kenneth H. , Fridovich-Keil Judith L. 
Published: June 2010

SUMMARYUDP-galactose 4′ epimerase (GALE) catalyzes the interconversion of UDP-galactose and UDP-glucose in the final step of the Leloir pathway; human GALE (hGALE) also interconverts UDP-N-acetylgalactosamine and UDP-N-acetylglucosamine. GALE therefore plays key roles in the metabolism of dietary galactose, in the production of endogenous galactose, and in maintaining the ratios of key substrates for glycoprotein and glycolipid biosynthesis. Partial impairment of hGALE results in the potentially lethal disorder epimerase-deficiency galactosemia. We report here the generation and initial characterization of a first whole-animal model of GALE deficiency using the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Our results confirm that GALE function is essential in developing animals; Drosophila lacking GALE die as embryos but are rescued by the expression of a human GALE transgene. Larvae in which GALE has been conditionally knocked down die within days of GALE loss. Conditional knockdown and transgene expression studies further demonstrate that GALE expression in the gut primordium and Malpighian tubules is both necessary and sufficient for survival. Finally, like patients with generalized epimerase deficiency galactosemia, Drosophila with partial GALE loss survive in the absence of galactose but succumb in development if exposed to dietary galactose. These data establish the utility of the fly model of GALE deficiency and set the stage for future studies to define the mechanism(s) and modifiers of outcome in epimerase deficiency galactosemia.
Distinct Catalytic Effect of Micellar Solution of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) for One-Pot Conversion of Alkyl Halides to Disulfides via an Odourless Process Using Thiourea and MnO2
Authors: Firouzabadi Habib , Iranpoor Nasser , Abbasi Mohammad 
Published: June 2010

Abstract
A novel one-pot odourless synthesis of symmetrical disulfides from their corresponding halides in aqueous media using thiourea and MnO2 in the presence of NaHCO3 or Na2CO3 catalyzed by micellar solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) is described. By this method, primary, allylic and benzylic halides were converted into their corresponding disulfides in high yields.
Distribute Instructions for Oral Dispenser; Seasonal Vaccine “H1N1” is Not 2009 Pandemic Strain; Same Name, Different Drug; Confusion between Organ Preservation Solutions and IV Containers; Enteral Nutrition Safety; LQ? LAR? DSC? Drug Name Suffixes and Their Meanings
Authors: Cohen Michael R. , Smetzer Judy L. 
Published: June 2010

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them at your inservice training programs. Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) Medication Errors Reporting Program. Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below. Errors, close calls, or hazardous conditions may be reported directly to ISMP through the ISMP Web site ( www.ismp.org ), by calling 800-FAIL-SAFE, or via e-mail at ismpinfo@ismp.org . ISMP guarantees the confidentiality and security of the information received and respects reporters' wishes as to the level of detail included in publications.
The Analysis of Fracture Mechanisms of Ferritic Steel 13HMF at Low Temperatures
Authors: Neimitz A. , Galkiewicz J. 
Published: June 2010

Abstract
In this paper, the transition from a ductile fracture mechanism to a cleavage fracture mechanism is analyzed. Microscopic observations of the domains in front of a crack were followed by numerical analysis. The microscopic observations were accompanied by analysis of the fracture surfaces. Both the influences of temperature and an in-plane constraint on the mechanism transition were taken into account. The numerical analyses were carried out using two different models of a crack: Stationary and propagating. The direct, simultaneous influence of the level of the opening stress maximum, the characteristic distance in front of the crack tip, and the level of plastic strain on the ductile-cleavage transition have been confirmed.
Performance of Olive Waste Ash Concrete Exposed to Thermal Cycling
Authors: Al-Akhras Nabil M. , Attom Mousa F. , Al-Akhras Khaled M. 
Published: June 2010

Abstract
This paper explores the influence of olive waste ash (OWA) on the performance of concrete to thermal cycling. The performance of concrete to thermal cycling was evaluated by measuring the compressive strength, electrical conductance, and visual inspection of cracks in concrete specimens. Three OWA replacements were utilized in the study: 7, 15, and 22 % by weight of sand. The other experimental parameters investigated in the study were aggregate type (crushed limestone and volcanic pumice), water to cement (w/c) ratio (0.4 and 0.6), and curing type (moist and autoclaving curing). After the initial moist curing, concrete specimens were exposed to thermal cycling regime in the range from 30 to 150°C during a period of 24 h using an electric furnace. The results of the study showed that thermal cycling of OWA concrete resulted in significant cracks and damage in concrete specimens. The OWA concrete was found more resistant to thermal cycling compared to plain concrete. Additionally, the resistance of OWA concrete to thermal cycling increased with increasing the OWA content. The OWA concrete containing pumice aggregate showed more resistance to thermal cycling than OWA concrete containing limestone aggregate. The resistance of OWA concrete at w/c ratio of 0.4 to thermal cycling was observed higher compared to OWA concrete at w/c ratio of 0.6. The autoclaved OWA concrete showed higher improvement to thermal cycling than the moist cured OWA concrete.
Wetting Behavior of Solders
Authors: Kumar Girish , Prabhu K. Narayan 
Published: June 2010

Abstract
Lead bearing solders have been used extensively in the assembly of modern electronic circuits. However, increasing environmental and health concerns about the toxicity of lead has led to the development of lead-free solders. Wetting of solders on surfaces is a complex and important phenomenon that affects the interfacial microstructure and hence the reliability of a solder joint. The solder material reacts with a small amount of the base metal and wets the metal by intermetallic compound (IMC) formation. The degree and rate of wetting are the two important parameters that characterize the wetting phenomenon. Contact angle is a measure of the degree of wetting or wettability of a surface by a liquid. Spreading kinetics in a given system is strongly affected by the experimental conditions. In reactive systems like soldering, wetting and chemical interfacial reactions are interrelated, and hence for successful modeling, it is essential to assess the effect of interfacial reactions on kinetics of wetting. Solder wetting necessarily involves the metallurgical reactions between the filler metal and the base metal. This interaction at the solder/base metal interface results in the formation of IMCs. During soldering an additional driving force besides the imbalance in interfacial energies originates from the interfacial reactions. The formation of IMC has significant influence on contact angle. The presence of IMCs (thin, continuous, and uniform layer) between solders and substrate metals is an essential requirement for good bonding. Optimum thickness of an IMC layer offers better wettability and an excellent solder joint reliability. However, due to their inherent brittle nature and tendency to generate structural defects, a too thick IMC layer at the interface may degrade the joint. In this paper, the factors affecting the wetting behavior of solders and evolution of interfacial microstructure are reviewed and discussed.
Deletion of a Novel F-Box Protein, MUS-10, in Neurospora crassa Leads to Altered Mitochondrial Morphology, Instability of mtDNA and Senescence
Authors: Kato Akihiro , Kurashima Kiminori , Chae Michael , Sawada Satoshi , Hatakeyama Shin , Tanaka Shuuitsu , Inoue Hirokazu 
Published: June 2010

Abstract
While mitochondria are renowned for their role in energy production, they also perform several other integral functions within the cell. Thus, it is not surprising that mitochondrial dysfunction can negatively impact cell viability. Although mitochondria have received an increasing amount of attention in recent years, there is still relatively little information about how proper maintenance of mitochondria and its genomes is achieved. The Neurospora crassa mus-10 mutant was first identified through its increased sensitivity to methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) and was thus believed to be defective in some aspect of DNA repair. Here, we report that mus-10 harbors fragmented mitochondria and that it accumulates deletions in its mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), suggesting that the mus-10 gene product is involved in mitochondrial maintenance. Interestingly, mus-10 begins to senesce shortly after deletions are visualized in its mtDNA. To uncover the function of MUS-10, we used a gene rescue approach to clone the mus-10 gene and discovered that it encodes a novel F-box protein. We show that MUS-10 interacts with a core component of the Skp, Cullin, F-box containing (SCF) complex, SCON-3, and that its F-box domain is essential for its function in vivo. Thus, we provide evidence that MUS-10 is part of an E3 ubiquitin ligase complex involved in maintaining the integrity of mitochondria and may function to prevent cellular senescence.