bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Map-Mediated Dialogues: Effects of Map Orientation Differences and Shared Reference Points on Map Location-Finding Speed and Accuracy
Authors: van der Kleij Rick , te Brake Guido 
Published: August 2010

Objective: The effects of individual differences in map orientation on a location-finding dyadic team task were examined in a controlled experimental setting. Background: Research on maps has been mainly directed at individuals navigating with cartographic maps. An important question remains about how to present information about others’ locations to distributed team members. Method: In a repeated-measures factorial design, distributed dyad members had to reach a shared understanding through map-mediated human-to-human dialogues about specific preset locations on digitized maps. Maps were rotated independently to different degrees, which produced alignment differences of various magnitudes between both members. Some of these maps were complemented with additional geospatial information (i.e., landmarks, compass rose, and map grid) to provide for shared reference points. Results: Dyads using maps with identical orientations for both members performed the task more accurately than dyads using maps that varied in orientation between dyad members. The addition of geospatial information to maps providing for shared reference points helped the teamwork. Distributed dyads using maps that vary in orientation between dyad members benefit more from shared reference points than dyads using maps with orientations that are identical for both members. Conclusion: We conclude that shared reference points help distributed dyads using maps that vary in orientation between dyad members to perform as well as dyads using maps with identical alignment. Application: This article shows how to provide support for team coordination in distributed settings and facilitates the development of groupware to support distributed teamwork.
The expression of renin-angiotensin system components in the human gastric mucosa
Authors: Hallersund Peter , Elfvin Anders , Helander Herbert F , Fändriks Lars 
Published: August 2010

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to map the distribution of representative protein components of the renin—angiotensin system (RAS) in the human gastric mucosa. Materials and methods: Biopsies from the antral and corporal mucosa of healthy Helicobacter pylori negative and positive volunteers were assessed by histology, Western blot and immunohistochemistry for angiotensin II subtype 1 and 2 receptors (AT1R, AT2R) and other RAS components (angiotensinogen, renin, angiotensin converting enzyme, and neprilysin). Mucosal levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO) served as a protein marker of neutrophil infiltration. Results: AT1R and AT2R were located in a variety of cells in the human gastric mucosa, including AT1R on a subpopulation of endocrine cells in the antral mucosa. Angiotensinogen and renin were expressed by resident mesenchymal cells in lamina propria. All investigated RAS components were found in vascular endothelial cells. The AT1R protein expression was 3—4 times higher in the gastric mucosa of H. pylori positive subjects compared to the gastric mucosa of H. pylori negative subjects (p<0.05). Gastric mucosal AT1R protein expression correlated positively with neutrophil infiltration (r=0.7, p<0.05). Conclusions: Protein components of RAS are present in the human gastric mucosa. The results suggest an angiotensin II mediated impact on mucosal epithelial functions, antral endocrine properties, microvascular permeability, and gastric inflammation.
SNP discovery by high-throughput sequencing in soybean
Authors: Wu Xiaolei , Ren Chengwei , Joshi Trupti , Vuong Tri , Xu Dong , Nguyen Henry T 
Published: August 2010

Abstract

Background
With the advance of new massively parallel genotyping technologies, quantitative trait loci (QTL) fine mapping and map-based cloning become more achievable in identifying genes for important and complex traits. Development of high-density genetic markers in the QTL regions of specific mapping populations is essential for fine-mapping and map-based cloning of economically important genes. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are the most abundant form of genetic variation existing between any diverse genotypes that are usually used for QTL mapping studies. The massively parallel sequencing technologies (Roche GS/454, Illumina GA/Solexa, and ABI/SOLiD), have been widely applied to identify genome-wide sequence variations. However, it is still remains unclear whether sequence data at a low sequencing depth are enough to detect the variations existing in any QTL regions of interest in a crop genome, and how to prepare sequencing samples for a complex genome such as soybean. Therefore, with the aims of identifying SNP markers in a cost effective way for fine-mapping several QTL regions, and testing the validation rate of the putative SNPs predicted with Solexa short sequence reads at a low sequencing depth, we evaluated a pooled DNA fragment reduced representation library and SNP detection methods applied to short read sequences generated by Solexa high-throughput sequencing technology.

Results
A total of 39,022 putative SNPs were identified by the Illumina/Solexa sequencing system using a reduced representation DNA library of two parental lines of a mapping population. The validation rates of these putative SNPs predicted with low and high stringency were 72% and 85%, respectively. One hundred sixty four SNP markers resulted from the validation of putative SNPs and have been selectively chosen to target a known QTL, thereby increasing the marker density of the targeted region to one marker per 42 K bp.

Conclusions
We have demonstrated how to quickly identify large numbers of SNPs for fine mapping of QTL regions by applying massively parallel sequencing combined with genome complexity reduction techniques. This SNP discovery approach is more efficient for targeting multiple QTL regions in a same genetic population, which can be applied to other crops.
Thaumatin-like proteins are differentially expressed and localized in phloem tissues of hybrid poplar
Authors: Dafoe Nicole J , Gowen Brent E , Constabel C Peter 
Published: August 2010

Abstract

Background
Two thaumatin-like proteins (TLPs) were previously identified in phloem exudate of hybrid poplar (Populus trichocarpa × P. deltoides) using proteomics methods, and their sieve element localization confirmed by immunofluorescence. In the current study, we analyzed different tissues to further understand TLP expression and localization in poplar, and used immunogold labelling to determine intracellular localization.

Results
Immunofluorescence using a TLP antiserum confirmed the presence of TLP in punctate, organelle-like structures within sieve elements. On western blots, the antiserum labeled two constitutively expressed proteins with distinct expression patterns. Immunogold labelling suggested that TLPs are associated with starch granules and starch-containing plastids in sieve elements and phloem parenchyma cells. In addition, the antiserum recognized TLPs in the inner cell wall and sieve plate region of sieve elements.

Conclusions
TLP localization in poplar cells and tissues is complex. TLP1 is expressed predominantly in tissues with a prominent vascular system such as midveins, petioles and stems, whereas the second TLP is primarily expressed in starch-storing plastids found in young leaves and the shoot apex.
Reproductive life disorders in Italian celiac women. A case-control study
Authors: Martinelli Domenico , Fortunato Francesca , Tafuri Silvio , Germinario Cinzia A , Prato Rosa 
Published: August 2010

Abstract

Background
The aim of this study is to explore the association between celiac disease and menstrual cycle, gestation and puerperal disorders.

Methods
The association between celiac disease and menstrual cycle, gestation and puerperal disorders in a sample of 62 childbearing age women (15-49 age) was assessed within an age and town of residence matched case-control study conducted in 2008. Main outcome measures were the presence of one or more disorders in menstrual cycle and the presence of one or more complication during pregnancy.

Results
62 celiac women (median age: 31.5, range: 17-49) and 186 healthy control (median age: 32.5, range: 15-49) were interviewed. A higher percentage of menstrual cycle disorders has been observed in celiac women. 19.4% frequency of amenorrhea was reported among celiac women versus 2.2% among healthy controls (OR = 33, 95% CI = 7.17-151.8;, p = 0.000). An association has been observed between celiac disease and oligomenorrhea, hypomenorrhea, dysmenorrhea and metrorrhagia (p < 0.05). The likelihood of having at least one complication during pregnancy has been estimated to be at least four times higher in celiac women than in healthy women (OR = 4.1, 95% CI = 2-8.6, p = 0.000). A significant correlation has emerged for celiac disease and threatened abortion, gestational hypertension, placenta abruption, severe anaemia, uterine hyperkinesia, intrauterine growth restriction (p < 0.001). A shorter gestation has on average been observed in celiac women together with a lower birth weight of celiac women babies (p < 0.001).

Conclusions
The occurrence of a significant correlation between celiac disease and reproductive disorders could suggest to consider celiac disease diagnostic procedures (serological screening) in women affected by these disorders.
Reliability of computed tomography measurements in assessment of thigh muscle cross-sectional area and attenuation
Authors: Strandberg Sören , Wretling Marie-Louise , Wredmark Torsten , Shalabi Adel 
Published: August 2010

Abstract

Background
Advancement in technology of computer tomography (CT) and introduction of new medical imaging softwares enables easy and rapid assessment of muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and attenuation. Before using these techniques in clinical studies there is a need for evaluation of the reliability of the measurements. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the inter- and intra-observer reliability of ImageJ in measuring thigh muscles CSA and attenuation in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury by computer tomography.

Methods
31 patients from an ongoing study of rehabilitation and muscle atrophy after ACL reconstruction were included in the study. Axial CT images with slice thickness of 10 mm at the level of 150 mm above the knee joint were analyzed by two investigators independently at two times with a minimum of 3 weeks between the two readings using NIH ImageJ. CSA and the mean attenuation of individual thigh muscles were analyzed for both legs.

Results
Mean CSA and mean attenuation values were in good agreement both when comparing the two observers and the two replicates. The inter- and intraclass correlation (ICC) was generally very high with values from 0.98 to 1.00 for all comparisons except for the area of semimembranosus. All the ICC values were significant (p < 0,001). Pearson correlation coefficients were also generally very high with values from 0.98 to 1.00 for all comparisons except for the area of semimembranosus (0.95 for intraobserver and 0.92 for interobserver).

Conclusion
This study has presented ImageJ as a method to monitor and evaluate CSA and attenuation of different muscles in the thigh using CT-imaging. The method shows an overall excellent reliability with respect to both observer and replicate.
The PI3K/Akt pathway upregulates Id1 and integrin α4 to enhance recruitment of human ovarian cancer endothelial progenitor cells
Authors: Su Yajuan , Zheng Lei , Wang Qian , Bao Jie , Cai Zhen , Liu Ailan 
Published: August 2010

Abstract

Background
Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) contribute to tumor angiogenesis and growth. We aimed to determine whether inhibitors of differentiation 1 (Id1) were expressed in circulating EPCs of patients with ovarian cancer, whether Id1 could mediate EPCs mobilization and recruitment, and, if so, what underlying signaling pathway it used.

Methods
Circulating EPCs cultures were from 25 patients with ovarian cancer and 20 healthy control subjects. Id1 and integrin α4 expression were analyzed by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot. EPCs proliferation, migration, and adhesion were detected by MTT, transwell chamber, and EPCs-matrigel adhesion assays. Double-stranded DNA containing the interference sequences were synthesized according to the structure of a pGCSIL-GFP viral vector and then inserted into a linearized vector. Positive clones were identified as lentiviral vectors that expressed human Id1 short hairpin RNA (shRNA).

Results
Id1 and integrin α4 expression were increased in EPCs freshly isolated from ovarian cancer patients compared to those obtained from healthy subjects. siRNA-mediated Id1 downregulation substantially reduced EPCs function and integrin α4 expression. Importantly, Inhibition of PI3K/Akt inhibited Id1 and integrin α4 expression, resulting in the decreasing biological function of EPCs.

Conclusions
Id1 induced EPCs mobilization and recruitment is mediated chiefly by the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and is associated with activation of integrin α4.
Hydric stress-dependent effects of Plasmodium falciparum infection on the survival of wild-caught Anopheles gambiae female mosquitoes
Authors: Aboagye-Antwi Fred , Guindo Amadou , Traoré Amadou S , Hurd Hilary , Coulibaly Mamadou , Traoré Sékou , Tripet Frédéric 
Published: August 2010

AbstractBackgroundWhetherPlasmodium falciparum, the agent of human malaria responsible for over a million deaths per year, causes fitness costs in its mosquito vectors is a burning question that has not yet been adequately resolved. Understanding the evolutionary forces responsible for the maintenance of susceptibility and refractory alleles in natural mosquito populations is critical for understanding malaria transmission dynamics.MethodsIn natural mosquito populations,Plasmodiumfitness costs may only be expressed in combination with other environmental stress factors hence this hypothesis was tested experimentally. Wild-caught blood-fedAnopheles gambiaes.s. females of the M and S molecular form from an area endemic for malaria in Mali, West Africa, were brought to the laboratory and submitted to a 7-day period of mild hydric stress or kept with water ad-libitum. At the end of this experiment all females were submitted to intense desiccation until death. The survival of all females throughout both stress episodes, as well as their body size and infection status was recorded. The importance of stress, body size and molecular form on infection prevalence and female survival was investigated using Logistic Regression and Proportional-Hazard analysis.ResultsFemales subjected to mild stress exhibited patterns of survival and prevalence of infection compatible with increased parasite-induced mortality compared to non-stressed females. Fitness costs seemed to be linked to ookinetes and early oocyst development but not the presence of sporozoites. In addition, when females were subjected to intense desiccation stress, those carrying oocysts exhibited drastically reduced survival but those carrying sporozoites were unaffected. No significant differences in prevalence of infection and infection-induced mortality were found between the M and S molecular forms ofAnopheles gambiae.ConclusionsBecause these results suggest that infected mosquitoes may incur fitness costs under natural-like conditions, they are particularly relevant to vector control strategies aiming at boosting naturally occurring refractoriness or spreading natural or foreign genes for refractoriness using genetic drive systems in vector populations.
Multiplicity of Plasmodium falciparum infection following intermittent preventive treatment in infants
Authors: Buchholz Ulrike , Kobbe Robin , Danquah Ina , Zanger Philipp , Reither Klaus , Abruquah Harry H , Grobusch Martin P , Ziniel Peter , May Jürgen , Mockenhaupt Frank P 
Published: August 2010

Abstract

Background
Intermittent preventive treatment in infants with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTi-SP) reduces malaria morbidity by 20% to 33%. Potentially, however, this intervention may compromise the acquisition of immunity, including the tolerance towards multiple infections with Plasmodium falciparum.

Methods

Plasmodium falciparum isolates were obtained from children participating in two Ghanaian IPTi-SP trials (Tamale, Afigya Sekyere) at 15 months of age, i.e., six months after they had received the second dose of IPTi-SP or placebo. By typing the polymorphic merozoite surface protein 1 (msp1) and msp2 genes, multiplicity of infection (MOI) was assessed in 389 isolates. A total of additional 133 samples were collected in Tamale at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of age. Comparisons of MOI between groups were done by non-parametric statistical tests.

Results
The number of distinguishable P. falciparum clones (MOI) ranged between one and six. Mean MOI in Tamale was stable at 2.13 - 2.17 during the first year of life, and increased to 2.57 at age 15 months (P = 0.01). At no age did MOI differ between the IPTi-SP and placebo groups (each, P ≥ 0.5). At 15 months of age, i.e., six months after the second dose, MOI was very similar for children who had received IPTi or placebo (means, 2.25 vs. 2.33; P = 0.55) as was the proportion of polyclonal infections (69.6% vs. 69.7%; P = 0.99). Adjusting for study site, current and prior malaria, parasite density, and season did not change this finding.

Conclusions
IPTi-SP appears to have no impact on the multiplicity of infection during infancy and thereafter. This suggests that tolerance of multiple infections, a component of protective immunity in highly endemic areas, is not affected by this intervention.
Autocrine regulation of human sperm motility by tachykinins
Authors: Pinto Francisco M , Ravina Cristina G , Subiran Nerea , Cejudo-Román Antonio , Fernández-Sánchez Manuel , Irazusta Jon , Garrido Nicolas , Candenas Luz 
Published: August 2010

Abstract

Background
We examined the presence and function of tachykinins and the tachykinin-degrading enzymes neprilysin (NEP) and neprilysin-2 (NEP2) in human spermatozoa.

Methods
Freshly ejaculated semen was collected from forty-eight normozoospermic human donors. We analyzed the expression of substance P, neurokinin A, neurokinin B, hemokinin-1, NEP and NEP2 in sperm cells by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), western blot and immunocytochemistry assays and evaluated the effects of the neprilysin and neprilysin-2 inhibitor phosphoramidon on sperm motility in the absence and presence of tachykinin receptor-selective antagonists. Sperm motility was measured using WHO procedures or computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA).

Results
The mRNAs of the genes that encode substance P/neurokinin A (TAC1), neurokinin B (TAC3), hemokinin-1 (TAC4), neprilysin (MME) and neprilysin-2 (MMEL1) were expressed in human sperm. Immunocytochemistry studies revealed that tachykinin and neprilysin proteins were present in spermatozoa and show specific and differential distributions. Phosphoramidon increased sperm progressive motility and its effects were reduced in the presence of the tachykinin receptor antagonists SR140333 (NK1 receptor-selective) and SR48968 (NK2 receptor-selective) but unmodified in the presence of SR142801 (NK3 receptor-selective).

Conclusion
These data show that tachykinins are present in human spermatozoa and participate in the regulation of sperm motility. Tachykinin activity is regulated, at least in part, by neprilysins.
Clinical importance and impact on the households of oseltamivir-resistant seasonal A/H1N1 influenza virus in healthy children in Italy
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Molteni Claudio Giuseppe , Daleno Cristina , Valzano Antonia , Fossali Emilio , Da Dalt Liviana , Cecinati Valerio , Bruzzese Eugenia , Giacchino Raffaella , Giaquinto Carlo , Galeone Carlotta , Lackenby Angie , Principi Nicola 
Published: August 2010

AbstractA resistance of A/H1N1 influenza viruses to oseltamivir has recently emerged in a number of countries. However, the clinical and socioeconomic importance of this resistance has not been precisely defined. As children have the highest incidence of influenza infection and are at high risk of severe disease, the aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical importance and the impact on the households of oseltamivir-resistant seasonal A/H1N1 influenza virus in an otherwise healthy pediatric population. A total of 4,726 healthy children younger than 15 years with influenza-like illness were tested for influenza viruses by real-time polymerase chain reaction in the winters of 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 in Italy. The influenza A virus-positive samples underwent neuraminidase gene analysis using pyrosequencing to identify mutations H275Y and N294 S in A/H1N1, and E119V, R292K, and N294 S in A/H3N2. Among the A/H1N1 subtypes, the H275Y mutation was found in 2/126 samples taken in 2007-2008 (1.6%) and in all 17 samples (100%; p < 0.0001) taken in 2008-2009. No other mutation was identified in any of the A/H1N1 or A/H3N2 influenza viruses. No significant differences were found in terms of clinical importance or impact on the households between the children with oseltamivir-resistant seasonal A/H1N1 influenza virus and those with the wild-type. The spread of H275Y-mutated A/H1N1 seasonal influenza virus is a common phenomenon and the clinical importance and impact on the households of the mutated virus is similar to that of the wild-type in an otherwise healthy pediatric population.
Hunger and associated harms among injection drug users in an urban Canadian setting
Authors: Anema Aranka , Wood Evan , Weiser Sheri D , Qi Jiezhi , Montaner Julio SG , Kerr Thomas 
Published: August 2010

AbstractBackgroundFood insufficiency is often associated with health risks and adverse outcomes among marginalized populations. However, little is known about correlates of food insufficiency among injection drug users (IDU).MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study to examine the prevalence and correlates of self-reported hunger in a large cohort of IDU in Vancouver, Canada. Food insufficiency was defined as reporting "I am hungry, but don't eat because I can't afford enough food". Logistic regression was used to determine independent socio-demographic and drug-use characteristics associated with food insufficiency.ResultsAmong 1,053 participants, 681 (64.7%) reported being hungry and unable to afford enough food. Self-reported hunger was independently associated with: unstable housing (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.68, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.20 - 2.36, spending ≥ $50/day on drugs (AOR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.06 - 1.91), and symptoms of depression (AOR: 3.32, 95% CI: 2.45 - 4.48).ConclusionThese findings suggest that IDU in this setting would likely benefit from interventions that work to improve access to food and social support services, including addiction treatment programs which may reduce the adverse effect of ongoing drug use on hunger.