bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of a MF-59™-adjuvanted pandemic influenza vaccine to prevent 2009 A/H1N1 influenza-related hospitalisation; a matched case-control study
Authors: Steens Anneke , Wijnans Eleonora G , Dieleman Jeanne P , Sturkenboom Miriam CJM , van der Sande Marianne AB , van der Hoek Wim 
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Background
During the 2009 influenza A/H1N1 pandemic, adjuvanted influenza vaccines were used for the first time on a large scale. Results on the effectiveness of the vaccines in preventing 2009 influenza A/H1N1-related hospitalisation are scanty and varying.

Methods
We conducted a matched case-control study in individuals with an indication for vaccination due to underlying medical conditions and/or age ≥ 60 years in the Netherlands. Cases were patients hospitalised with laboratory-confirmed 2009 A/H1N1 influenza infection between November 16, 2009 and January 15, 2010. Controls were matched to cases on age, sex and type of underlying medical condition(s) and drawn from an extensive general practitioner network. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate the vaccine effectiveness (VE = 1 - OR). Different sensitivity analyses were used to assess confounding by severity of underlying medical condition(s) and the effect of different assumptions for missing dates of vaccination.

Results
149 cases and 28,238 matched controls were included. It was estimated that 22% of the cases and 28% of the controls received vaccination more than 7 days before the date of onset of symptoms in cases. A significant number of breakthrough infections were observed. The VE was estimated at 19% (95%CI -28-49). After restricting the analysis to cases with controls suffering from severe underlying medical conditions, the VE was 49% (95%CI 16-69).

Conclusions
The number of breakthrough infections, resulting in modest VE estimates, suggests that the MF-59™ adjuvanted vaccine may have had only a limited impact on preventing 2009 influenza A/H1N1-related hospitalisation in this setting. As the main aim of influenza vaccination programmes is to reduce severe influenza-related morbidity and mortality from influenza in persons at high risk of complications, a more effective vaccine, or additional preventive measures, are needed.
Homelessness among a cohort of women in street-based sex work: the need for safer environment interventions
Authors: Duff Putu , Deering Kathleen , Gibson Kate , Tyndall Mark , Shannon Kate 
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Background
Drawing on data from a community-based prospective cohort study in Vancouver, Canada, we examined the prevalence and individual, interpersonal and work environment correlates of homelessness among 252 women in street-based sex work.

Methods
Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression using generalized estimating equations (GEE) was used to examine the individual, interpersonal and work environment factors that were associated with homelessness among street-based sex workers.

Results
Among 252 women, 43.3% reported homelessness over an 18-month follow-up period. In the multivariable GEE logistic regression analysis, younger age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.93; 95%confidence interval [95%CI] 0.93-0.98), sexual violence by non-commercial partners (aOR = 2.14; 95%CI 1.06-4.34), servicing a higher number of clients (10+ per week vs < 10) (aOR = 1.68; 95%CI 1.05-2.69), intensive, daily crack use (aOR = 1.65; 95%CI 1.11-2.45), and servicing clients in public spaces (aOR = 1.52; CI 1.00-2.31) were independently associated with sleeping on the street.

Conclusions
These findings indicate a critical need for safer environment interventions that mitigate the social and physical risks faced by homeless FSWs and increase access to safe, secure housing for women.
Effect of the Kinesio tape to muscle activity and vertical jump performance in healthy inactive people
Authors: Huang Chen-Yu , Hsieh Tsung-Hsun , Lu Szu-Ching , Su Fong-Chin 
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Background
Elastic taping applied on the triceps surae has been commonly used to improve the performance of lower extremities. However, little objective evidence has been documented. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of elastic taping on the triceps surae during a maximal vertical jump. It was hypothesized that elastic taping to the triceps surae would increase muscle activity and cause positive effect to jump height.

Methods
Thirty-one healthy adults (19 males and 12 females with mean age, body weight and height for 25.3 ± 3.8 years old, 64.1 ± 6.2 kg, and 169.4 ± 7.3 cm, respectively) were recruited. All participants performed vertical jump tests prior to (without taping) and during elastic taping. Two elastic tapes, Kinesio tape and Mplacebo tape from two different manufacturers, were applied to the participants, respectively.

Results
The results showed that the vertical ground reaction force increased when Kinesio tape was applied even when the height of jump remained about constant. However, the height of the jump decreased, and there was no difference on the vertical ground reaction force in Mplacebo taping group. Although the EMG activity of medial gastrocnemius tended to increase in Kinesio taping group, we did not see differences in EMG activity for the medial gastrocnemius, tibialis anterior and soleus muscles in either group.

Conclusions
Based on the varied effects of Kinesio tape and Mplacebo tape, different intervention technique was suggested for specific purpose during vertical jump movement. Mplacebo tape was demanded for the benefits of stabilization, protection, and the restriction of motion at the ankle joint. On the other hand, the findings may implicate benefits for medial gastrocnemius muscle strength and push-off force when using Kinesio tape.
NH4
+ directed assembly of zinc oxide micro-tubes from nanoflakes
Authors: Yang Weiyi , Li Qi , Gao Shian , Shang Jian Ku 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
A simple precipitation process followed with the heat treatment was developed to synthesize ZnO micro-tubes by self-assembly of nanoflakes composed of nanoparticles. The resulting ZnO micro-tubes demonstrated excellent photocatalytic performance in degrading methylene blue (MB) under UV illumination. It was found that NH4
+ ion played a critical role in directing the assembly of the nanoflakes to form the micro-tube structure. A critical reaction ratio existed at or above which the ZnO micro-tubes could be obtained. For the mixtures of solutions of (NH4)2CO3 and zinc salt, the ratio ("Equation missing") was 2:1.
Methyl salicylate 2-O-β- D -lactoside, a novel salicylic acid analogue, acts as an anti-inflammatory agent on microglia and astrocytes
Authors: Lan Xi , Liu Rui , Sun Lan , Zhang Tiantai , Du Guanhua 
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Background
Neuroinflammation has been known to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Activation of microglia and astrocytes is a characteristic of brain inflammation. Epidemiological studies have shown that long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) delays the onset of AD and suppresses its progression. Methyl salicylate-2-O-β-D-lactoside (DL0309) is a new molecule chemically related to salicylic acid. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of DL0309.

Findings
Our studies show that DL0309 significantly inhibits lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α; and the expression of the inflammation-related proteins iNOS, COX-1, and COX-2 by microglia and astrocytes. At a concentration of 10 μM, DL0309 prominently inhibited LPS-induced activation of NF-κB in glial cells by blocking phosphorylation of IKK and p65, and by blocking IκB degradation.

Conclusions
We demonstrate here for the first time that DL0309 exerts anti-inflammatory effects in glial cells by suppressing different pro-inflammatory cytokines and iNOS/NO. Furthermore, it also regulates the NF-κB signaling pathway by blocking IKK and p65 activation and IκB degradation. DL0309 also acts as a non-selective COX inhibitor in glial cells. These studies suggest that DL0309 may be effective in the treatment of neuroinflammatory disorders, including AD.
The clinical and functional relevance of microparticles induced by activated protein C treatment in sepsis
Authors: Pérez-Casal Margarita , Thompson Victoria , Downey Colin , Welters Ingeborg , Wyncoll Duncan , Thachil Jecko , Toh Cheng Hock 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
Introduction
Activated protein C (APC) induces release of microparticles (MP) from primary physiological cells, which are found in patients undergoing treatment with recombinant human APC (rhAPC) for severe sepsis. We hypothesised that APC on these circulating MPs activate endothelial protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) to induce anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties that can improve patient outcome.

Methods
This was an experimental study on clinical samples in an intensive care setting, and included patients with severe sepsis who fulfilled criteria for treatment with rhAPC. The number of CD13+ MPs from the patients were analysed to determine their origin. They were also quantified for endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR) and APC expression. Clinical relevance of these MPs were ascertained by comparing survival between the group receiving rhAPC (n = 25) and a control group of untreated patients (n = 25). MPs were also incubated with endothelial cells to analyse apoptotic gene expression, cytoprotection and anti-inflammatory effects.

Results
rhAPC treatment induced a significant increase in circulating MP-associated EPCR by flow cytometry (P < 0.05) and by quantitative ELISA (P < 0.005). APC expression also showed significant increases (P < 0.05). Numerically, CD13+ MPs were higher in rhAPC-treated survivors versus non-survivors. However, the number of non-survivors was low and this was not significantly different. APC on MPs was demonstrated to induce anti-apoptotic and endothelial barrier effects through the activation of endothelial PAR1.

Conclusions
rhAPC treatment in patients with sepsis significantly increases circulating EPCR + MPs. These MPs were noted to express APC, which has specific anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects, with a non-significant correlative trend towards survival. This suggests that MPs could disseminate APC function and activate endothelial PAR1 at distal vascular sites.
Abdominal Fat Accumulation in Adults Born Preterm Exposed Antenatally to Maternal Glucocorticoid Treatment Is Dependent on Glucocorticoid Receptor Gene Variation
Authors: Finken Martijn J. J. , Meulenbelt Ingrid , Dekker Friedo W. , Frölich Marijke , Walther Frans J. , Romijn Johannes A. , Slagboom P. Eline , Wit Jan M. ,   on behalf of the Dutch POPS-19 Collaborative Study Group
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Context:
Preterm birth is associated with short stature, abdominal adiposity, insulin resistance, and hypertension, resembling effects of increased glucocorticoid bioactivity. Although antenatal glucocorticoid treatment does not substantially contribute to these associations, it is unknown whether genetic variants in the glucocorticoid receptor gene could modulate the effects of antenatal glucocorticoid treatment on the above phenotype.

Objective:
Our objective was to test the effects of the R23K and N363S variants, associated with decreased and increased sensitivity to cortisol, respectively, on the metabolic profile in adults born preterm of whom some had been treated with glucocorticoids antenatally and/or in the early postnatal phase.

Design and Participants:
This was a prospective follow-up study that included 263 19-year-olds born at a gestational age under 32 wk from the Dutch Project on Preterm and Small-for-Gestational-Age Infants cohort.

Setting:
This was a nationwide multicenter follow-up study.

Main Outcome Measures:
Adult height and body composition, fasting serum glucose, insulin and cholesterol levels, and blood pressure were evaluated.

Results:
At 19 yr of age, waist circumference was 1.67 ± 0.90 sd score in 363S carriers who had been treated antenatally with glucocorticoids (n = 4), which was much higher than that of the other groups (P for interaction = 0.03). A similar association was found for the waist-to-hip ratio sd score (P = 0.03). Similar associations were absent with the R23K polymorphism. There was no interaction between these genotypes and postnatal glucocorticoid treatment on serum levels of glucose, insulin, and cholesterol or blood pressure.

Conclusions:
In prematurely born individuals carrying the 363S variant, antenatal glucocorticoid treatment predisposes to abdominal adiposity at age 19 yr.
The Exposure of Fetuses and Children to Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals: A European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology (ESPE) and Pediatric Endocrine Society (PES) Call to Action Statement
Authors: Skakkebaek Niels E. , Toppari Jorma , Söder Olle , Gordon Catherine M. , Divall Sara , Draznin Martin 
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Objective:
During recent years, evidence has accumulated that both wildlife species and humans are exposed to ubiquitous endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Some are persistent in our bodies; others are nonpersistent but are produced in large quantities. Hitherto, the bulk of research in this area has been carried out by basic and experimental scientists and wildlife researchers. Relatively few clinical scientists have been engaged in research on this topic to date. The aim of this statement is to have pediatric endocrinologists consider the issue of endocrine disrupters in their clinical work and research.

Participants:
Six pediatric endocrinologists who belonged to working groups on endocrine disrupters endorsed by the European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology (ESPE) and the Pediatric Endocrine Society (PES) participated, including three members from each society. Meetings were limited to the members of the working groups. No funding was associated with the work.

Evidence:
Important data sources were publications from the World Health Organization, the European Science Foundation, and The Endocrine Society. Several of the participants have made long-standing contributions to the field of endocrine disruption. No unpublished work was considered.

Consensus Process:
The statement was written by the committee members together, using e-mail and phone. A draft was submitted to the Boards of the ESPE and PES. After some changes, the draft was accepted by both Boards.

Conclusions:
Pediatric endocrinologists are urged to be alert to the possible significance of endocrine-disrupting chemicals when assessing both clinical problems and research data where etiologies of endocrine symptoms or diseases are unknown.
Qualitätsbewertung von Informationsressourcen am Beispiel der Quellenbewertung des Begriffes „Zwerggecko“
Authors: Kappe Christoph , Manto Tino Lo , Roth Sascha , Gloystein Heide 
Published: August 2011

Zusammenfassung
Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es, das erlernte theoretische Wissen einer Lehrveranstaltung zur „Qualitätsbewertung von Informationsressourcen“ anhand einer konkreten Aufgabenstellung in die Praxis umzusetzen. Im Detail geht es darum, eine spezielle Anfrage an verschiedene Informationsressourcen zu richten und die Resultate anhand eines einheitlichen Kriterienrasters zu beurteilen und zu vergleichen. Die Ressourcen kommen dabei aus den Bereichen Fachinformation/Fachdatenbanken, Internet (passive Angebote) und Web 2.0 (interaktive Angebote). Als Bewertungskriterien dienen u.a. die Richtigkeit, Vollständigkeit und Relevanz der Angebote, aber auch deren Aufbereitung, Aktualität und der Entstehungsprozess gerade im Zeitalter des Web 2.0. Die Ergebnisse zeigen deutliche Abweichungen der Ressourcen untereinander und legen daher nahe, einen Mix der verschiedenartigen Quellen bei der Lösung der Aufgabenstellung anzuwenden.
Tack and shear strength of hybrid adhesive systems made of phenol-formaldehyde, dextrin and fish glue, and acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive
Authors: Sahaf Amir , Englund Karl , Laborie Marie-Pierre G. 
Published: August 2011

AbstractThe development of adhesives that have good initial adhesion (tack) that provides improved mat integrity during shape-forming of wood composites has been the subject of recent research. Hybrid adhesives were made based on thermosetting phenol-formaldehyde (PF), to which three tacky adhesives were added: high tack fish glue (FG), dextrin glue (DX) and a commercial acrylic, pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). Tacky adhesives were blended with PF at weight levels of 25%, 50% and 75%. The time-dependent tack development of the resulting hybrid adhesives was evaluated by means of a texture analyzer. The bond strength of adhesives was measured after curing by shear block test. PF/DX blends exhibited the highest tack during longer open times, while blends of PF and FG had low tack during shorter times. PF/PSA blends lost their bond strength completely after being heated at the curing temperature of PF. PF/FG blends did not show a significant decrease in bond strength compared to pure PF. The addition of DX had no effect on shear strength at ratios <75%.
Furfuryl alcohol impregnation for improved plasticization and fixation during the densification of wood
Authors: Pfriem Alexander , Dietrich Tobias , Buchelt Beate 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
The densification of wood leads to better mechanical properties, e.g., an increased hardness and dimensional stability. However, densified or shaped wood in contact with water springs back into its original shape without fixation. Hence, the aim of this study was the development of a combined densification and fixation procedure. Beech wood samples (Fagus sylvatica L.) were impregnated with a solution consisting of furfuryl alcohol and maleic anhydride. The compression of these impregnated samples to approximately 30% followed by a curing process in a heating press resulted in a significant increase of hardness and dimensional stability. The spring-back-effect was clearly reduced by the in situ polymerization of the furfuryl alcohol solution to furan resins.
Identification and functional characterization of a sesquiterpene synthase gene from Eleutherococcus trifoliatus
Authors: Wen Chi-Hsiang , Tseng Yen-Hsueh , Chu Fang-Hua 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
In the present study, one sesquiterpene synthase gene in Eleutherococcus
trifoliatus was identified and characterized. Full-length cDNA was obtained from stems. It contained an open reading frame of 1671 bp (EtCop) with a predicted molecular mass of 64.5 kDa. The amino acid sequence of EtCop contained the common terpene synthase family motifs RR(x)8W, RxR and DDxxD. The recombinant protein from Escherichia coli was incubated with farnesyl diphosphate in order to identify the function of EtCop. The product of EtCop could be identified as an α-copaene by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis and comparison with an authentic standard.
Long-Term Hydrostatic Strength and Design of Thermoplastic Piping Compounds
Authors: Boros Stephen 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
There has been tremendous growth in the use of thermoplastic piping systems since their introduction more than 50 years ago. They bring a host of benefits in the form of long-term performance and reliability, ease of installation, and not being prone to corrosion and tuberculation. It was clear early on that thermoplastics could not be evaluated in the same way metallic components would be in similar applications. However, over time the understanding of these materials has matured, and as this understanding continues to develop we must not lose sight of the evaluation methodologies used for establishing the long-term hydrostatic strength of these compounds, and how that strength has been successfully used in designing these systems. This paper will give an overview of the basic methodology used to establish the long-term hydrostatic strength of thermoplastic compounds, and how that strength is used for engineering design in a safe and reliable manner.
Impaired Glucose Tolerance in the Absence of Adenosine A1 Receptor Signaling
Authors: Faulhaber-Walter Robert , Jou William , Mizel Diane , Li Lingli , Zhang Jiandi , Kim Soo Mi , Huang Yuning , Chen Min , Briggs Josephine P. , Gavrilova Oksana , Schnermann Jurgen B. 
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE
The role of adenosine (ADO) in the regulation of glucose homeostasis is not clear. In the current study, we used A1-ADO receptor (A1AR)-deficient mice to investigate the role of ADO/A1AR signaling for glucose homeostasis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
After weaning, A1AR−/− and wild-type mice received either a standard diet (12 kcal% fat) or high-fat diet (HFD; 45 kcal% fat). Body weight, fasting plasma glucose, plasma insulin, and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests were performed in 8-week-old mice and again after 12–20 weeks of subsequent observation. Body composition was quantified by magnetic resonance imaging and epididymal fat-pad weights. Glucose metabolism was investigated by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp studies. To describe pathophysiological mechanisms, adipokines and Akt phosphorylation were measured.

RESULTS
A1AR −/− mice were significantly heavier than wild-type mice because of an increased fat mass. Fasting plasma glucose and insulin were significantly higher in A1AR−/− mice after weaning and remained higher in adulthood. An intraperitoneal glucose challenge disclosed a significantly slower glucose clearance in A1AR−/− mice. An HFD enhanced this phenotype in A1AR−/− mice and unmasked a dysfunctional insulin secretory mechanism. Insulin sensitivity was significantly impaired in A1AR−/− mice on the standard diet shortly after weaning. Clamp studies detected a significant decrease of net glucose uptake in A1AR−/− mice and a reduced glucose uptake in muscle and white adipose tissue. Effects were not triggered by leptin deficiency but involved a decreased Akt phosphorylation.

CONCLUSIONS
ADO/A1AR signaling contributes importantly to insulin-controlled glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity in C57BL/6 mice and is involved in the metabolic regulation of adipose tissue.
Effects of Auxiliary Fiber Posts on Endodontically Treated Teeth With Flared Canals
Authors: Li Q , Xu B , Wang Y , Cai Y 
Published: August 2011

Clinical Relevance
Macro-Lock post combined with auxiliary fiber posts could increase the fracture resistance of endodontically treated roots with over-flared canals. However, an effect of the auxiliary fibers on retention strength was not observed.
A Technical Report on Repair of Amalgam-dentin Complex
Authors: Özcan M , Salihoğlu-Yener E 
Published: August 2011

SUMMARY
This clinical report describes a repair protocol for cusp fracture of a failed amalgam-dentin complex. A maxillary right first premolar with an amalgam restoration presented a buccal cusp fracture. Chairside repair has been undertaken by conditioning the existing amalgam restoration with silica coating (30 μm CoJet®-Sand), phosphoric acid etching the beveled enamel surface, priming dentin, and application of a bonding agent on both enamel and dentin. Thereafter, the amalgam was silanized (ESPE®-Sil), and opaque resin was applied and polymerized to mask the amalgam. The fractured buccal cusp was modeled using resin composite (Clearfil Photo Posterior) and photo-polymerized. Finally, the amalgam was refinished and refurbished and the composite was finished and polished.