bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tissue micro array analysis of ganglioside N-glycolyl GM3 expression and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-3 activation in relation to dendritic cell infiltration and microvessel density in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: van Cruijsen Hester , Ruiz Mariëlle Gallegos , van der Valk Paul , de Gruijl Tanja D , Giaccone Giuseppe 
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Background
Tumor immune escape and angiogenesis contribute to tumor progression, and gangliosides and activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-3 are implicated in these processes. As both are considered as novel therapeutic targets, we assessed the possible association of ganglioside GM3 expression and STAT3 activation with suppression of dendritic cell (DC) activation and angiogenesis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods
Immunohistochemistry was performed on a tissue array to determine N-glycolyl GM3 (GM3) and phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3) expression in 176 primary NSCLC resections. Median values of GM3 and pSTAT3 expression were used as cut off. Microvessel density (MVD) was determined by CD34 staining and morphology. CD1a and CD83 were used to determine infiltrating immature and mature dendritic cells, respectively.

Results
94% and 71% of the NSCLC samples expressed GM3 and nuclear pSTAT3, respectively. Median overall survival was 40.0 months. Both low GM3 expression and high pSTAT3 expression were associated with a worse survival, which reached near significance for GM3 (P = 0.08). Microvessel density (MVD), determined by CD34 staining and morphology, was lower in NSCLC samples with high GM3 expression. CD1a+ cells (immature DCs) were more frequent in NSCLC tissues as compared to peritumoral lung tissue, while CD83+ cells (mature DCs) were more frequent in peritumoral lung tissue. CD83+ DCs were less frequent in NSCLC tissues with high GM3 expression.

Conclusion
GM3 and pSTAT3 are widely expressed in NSCLC. Based on CD83 expression, GM3, but not pSTAT3, appeared to be involved in tumor-induced DC suppression. pSTAT3 expression was not associated with MVD, while GM3 might play an anti-angiogenic role.
Conformational flexibility and molecular interactions of an archaeal homologue of the Shwachman-Bodian-Diamond syndrome protein
Authors: Ng C Leong , Waterman David G , Koonin Eugene V , Walters Alison D , Chong James PJ , Isupov Michail N , Lebedev Andrey A , Bunka David HJ , Stockley Peter G , Ortiz-Lombardía Miguel , Antson Alfred A 
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Background
Defects in the human Shwachman-Bodian-Diamond syndrome (SBDS) protein-coding gene lead to the autosomal recessive disorder characterised by bone marrow dysfunction, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and skeletal abnormalities. This protein is highly conserved in eukaryotes and archaea but is not found in bacteria. Although genomic and biophysical studies have suggested involvement of this protein in RNA metabolism and in ribosome biogenesis, its interacting partners remain largely unknown.

Results
We determined the crystal structure of the SBDS orthologue from Methanothermobacter thermautotrophicus (mthSBDS). This structure shows that SBDS proteins are highly flexible, with the N-terminal FYSH domain and the C-terminal ferredoxin-like domain capable of undergoing substantial rotational adjustments with respect to the central domain. Affinity chromatography identified several proteins from the large ribosomal subunit as possible interacting partners of mthSBDS. Moreover, SELEX (Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment) experiments, combined with electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) suggest that mthSBDS does not interact with RNA molecules in a sequence specific manner.

Conclusion
It is suggested that functional interactions of SBDS proteins with their partners could be facilitated by rotational adjustments of the N-terminal and the C-terminal domains with respect to the central domain. Examination of the SBDS protein structure and domain movements together with its possible interaction with large ribosomal subunit proteins suggest that these proteins could participate in ribosome function.
Italian healthcare workers' views on mandatory vaccination
Authors: Tafuri Silvio ST , Martinelli Domenico DM , Caputi Giovanni GC , Arbore Annamaria AA , Germinario Cinzia CG , Prato Rosa RP 
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Background
Mandatory vaccination has contributed to the success of immunisation programmes but voluntary vaccination allows people to be responsible for their own health. There are benefits from both policies and the arguments between them remain subject to debate within and without the scientific community, both nationally and internationally. The aim of this study is to assess the opinions of those who actually work in the Vaccination Service.

Methods
The survey was carried out using a self-administered standardised anonymous questionnaire given to all of the Vaccination Service employees in the Apulia Region.

Results
Of 302 completed questionnaire replies, 4.4% stated that mandatory vaccination should be abandoned now, 21.2% that it should be phased out, and 74.4% that it should be retained.

Conclusion
An educational program should be set up to explain to Vaccination staff the value and worth of voluntary compared to mandatory vaccination and why high vaccination rates do not have to depend on compulsion.
Comparison of a one-time educational intervention to a teach-to-goal educational intervention for self-management of heart failure: design of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: DeWalt Darren A , Broucksou Kimberly A , Hawk Victoria , Baker David W , Schillinger Dean , Ruo Bernice , Bibbins-Domingo Kirsten , Holmes Mark , Weinberger Morris , Macabasco-O'Connell Aurelia , Pignone Michael 
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Background
Heart failure (HF) is common, costly and associated with significant morbidity and poor quality of life, particularly for patients with low socioeconomic status. Self-management training has been shown to reduce HF related morbidity and hospitalization rates, but there is uncertainty about how best to deliver such training and what patients benefit. This study compares a single session self-management HF training program against a multiple session training intervention and examines whether their effects differ by literacy level.

Methods/Design
In this randomized controlled multi-site trial, English and Spanish-speaking patients are recruited from university-affiliated General Internal Medicine and Cardiology clinics at 4 sites across the United States. Eligible patients have HF with New York Heart Association class II-IV symptoms and are prescribed a loop diuretic. Baseline data, including literacy level, are collected at enrollment and follow-up surveys are conducted at 1, 6 and 12 months
Upon enrollment, both the control and intervention groups receive the same 40 minute, literacy-sensitive, in-person, HF education session covering the 4 key self-management components of daily self assessment and having a plan, salt avoidance, exercise, and medication adherence. All participants also receive a literacy-sensitive workbook and a digital bathroom scale. After the baseline education was completed, patients are randomly allocated to return to usual care or to receive ongoing education and training. The intervention group receives an additional 20 minutes of education on weight and symptom-based diuretic self-adjustment, as well as periodic follow-up phone calls from the educator over the course of 1 year. These phone calls are designed to reinforce the education, assess participant knowledge of the education and address barriers to success.
The primary outcome is the combined incidence of all cause hospitalization and death. Secondary outcomes include HF-related quality of life, HF-related hospitalizations, knowledge regarding HF, self-care behavior, and self-efficacy. The effects of each intervention will be stratified by patient literacy, in order to identify any differential effects.

Discussion
Enrollment of the proposed 660 subjects will continue through the end of 2009. Outcome assessments are projected to be completed by early 2011.

Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ NCT00378950
Lactic acid bacteria affect serum cholesterol levels, harmful fecal enzyme activity, and fecal water content
Authors: Lee Do Kyung , Jang Seok , Baek Eun Hye , Kim Mi Jin , Lee Kyung Soon , Shin Hea Soon , Chung Myung Jun , Kim Jin Eung , Lee Kang Oh , Ha Nam Joo 
Published: June 2009

AbstractBackgroundLactic acid bacteria (LAB) are beneficial probiotic organisms that contribute to improved nutrition, microbial balance, and immuno-enhancement of the intestinal tract, as well as lower cholesterol. Although present in many foods, most trials have been in spreads or dairy products. Here we tested whetherBifidobacteriaisolates could lower cholesterol, inhibit harmful enzyme activities, and control fecal water content.MethodsIn vitroculture experiments were performed to evaluate the ability ofBifidobacteriumspp. isolated from healthy Koreans (20~30 years old) to reduce cholesterol-levels in MRS broth containing polyoxyethanylcholesterol sebacate. Animal experiments were performed to investigate the effects on lowering cholesterol, inhibiting harmful enzyme activities, and controlling fecal water content. For animal studies, 0.2 ml of the selected strain cultures (108~109CFU/ml) were orally administered to SD rats (fed a high-cholesterol diet) every day for 2 weeks.ResultsB. longumSPM1207 reduced serum total cholesterol and LDL levels significantly (p< 0.05), and slightly increased serum HDL.B. longumSPM1207 also increased fecal LAB levels and fecal water content, and reduced body weight and harmful intestinal enzyme activities.ConclusionDaily consumption ofB. longumSPM1207 can help in managing mild to moderate hypercholesterolemia, with potential to improve human health by helping to prevent colon cancer and constipation.
Comparative analysis between a low pathogenic and a high pathogenic influenza H5 hemagglutinin in cell entry
Authors: Rumschlag-Booms Emily , Guo Ying , Wang Jizhen , Caffrey Michael , Rong Lijun 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
Avian influenza viruses continue to threaten globally with pandemic potential. The first step in a potential pandemic is the ability of the virus to enter human cells which is mediated by the viral surface glycoprotein hemagglutinin (HA). Viral entry of influenza is dependent upon the processing of the HA0 polypeptide precursor protein into HA1 and HA2 which is mediated by host cellular proteases. The sequence of the cleavage site which is recognized by host proteases has been linked with pathogenesis of various influenza viruses. Here we examined the effects of cleavage site sequences between a highly pathogenic H5N1 strain and a low pathogenic H5N2 strain to determine their effects on viral entry. From this analysis we determined that at the level of viral entry, the only observed difference between the low and high pathogenic strains is their ability to be cleaved by host cellular proteases.
LOST to follow-up Information in Trials (LOST-IT): a protocol on the potential impact
Authors: Akl Elie A , Briel Matthias , You John J , Lamontagne Francois , Gangji Azim , Cukierman-Yaffe Tali , Alshurafa Mohamad , Sun Xin , Nerenberg Kara A , Johnston Bradley C , Vera Claudio , Mills Edward J , Bassler Dirk , Salazar Arturo , Bhatnagar Neera , Busse Jason W , Khalid Zara , Walter SD , Cook Deborah J , Schünemann Holger J , Altman Douglas G , Guyatt Gordon H 
Published: June 2009

AbstractBackgroundIncomplete ascertainment of outcomes in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is likely to bias final study results if reasons for unavailability of patient data are associated with the outcome of interest. The primary objective of this study is to assess the potential impact of loss to follow-up on the estimates of treatment effect. The secondary objectives are to describe, for published RCTs, (1) the reporting of loss to follow-up information, (2) the analytic methods used for handling loss to follow-up information, and (3) the extent of reported loss to follow-up.MethodsWe will conduct a systematic review of reports of RCTs recently published in five top general medical journals. Eligible RCTs will demonstrate statistically significant effect estimates with respect to primary outcomes that are patient-important and expressed as binary data. Teams of 2 reviewers will independently determine eligibility and extract relevant information from each eligible trial using standardized, pre-piloted forms. To assess the potential impact of loss to follow-up on the estimates of treatment effect we will, for varying assumptions about the outcomes of participants lost to follow-up (LTFU), calculate (1) the percentage of RCTs that lose statistical significance and (2) the mean change in effect estimate across RCTs. The different assumptions we will test are the following: (1) none of the LTFU participants had the event; (2) all LTFU participants had the event; (3) all LTFU participants in the treatment group had the event; none of those in the control group had it (worst case scenario); (4) the event incidence among LTFU participants (relative to observed participants) increased, with a higher relative increase in the intervention group; and (5) the event incidence among LTFU participants (relative to observed participants) increased in the intervention group and decreased in the control group.DiscussionWe aim to make our objectives and methods transparent. The results of this study may have important implications for both clinical trialists and users of the medical literature.
Smoking and nicotine exposure delay development of collagen-induced arthritis in mice
Authors: Lindblad Sofia S , Mydel Piotr , Jonsson Ing-Marie , Senior Robert M , Tarkowski Andrej , Bokarewa Maria 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
Introduction
Recent epidemiologic studies have implicated smoking as an environmental risk factor for the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim of the present study is the evaluation of the role of cigarette smoke (CS) in the pathogenesis of collagen-induced arthritis in mice.

Methods
DBA/1 mice exposed to CS for 16 weeks (n = 25) and mice exposed to nicotine in drinking water (n = 10) were immunized with collagen type II (CII). Severity of arthritis was evaluated clinically and morphologically and compared with control mice (n = 35). Intensity of inflammation was evaluated by serum IL-6 and TNF-α levels. Additionally, antibody response to CII (anti-CII) and citrullinated peptides (aCCP) was measured.

Results
Clinical evaluation of arthritis showed a delayed onset of arthritis in CS-exposed mice compared with non-smoking controls (P < 0.05). Histologic index and weight changes were comparable between the groups; however, smoking mice presented less weight loss during the acute phase of the disease and gained weight significantly faster in the recovery phase (P < 0.05). Similar results were obtained in the mice exposed to nicotine. Nicotine also showed a direct anti-inflammatory effect diminishing IL-6 production by stimulated splenocytes in vitro (P < 0.001). Additionally, smoking mice had lower levels of aCCP and anti-CII antibodies compared with non-smoking (P < 0.05).

Conclusions
Neither smoking nor nicotine exposure aggravates development of CII-induced arthritis in mouse model. Moreover, CS exposure was associated with a lower level of anti-CII antibodies, providing a possible explanation for a delay of arthritis onset in this group.
Anemia and red blood cell transfusion in neurocritical care
Authors: Kramer Andreas H , Zygun David A 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
Introduction
Anemia is one of the most common medical complications to be encountered in critically ill patients. Based on the results of clinical trials, transfusion practices across the world have generally become more restrictive. However, because reduced oxygen delivery contributes to 'secondary' cerebral injury, anemia may not be as well tolerated among neurocritical care patients.

Methods
The first portion of this paper is a narrative review of the physiologic implications of anemia, hemodilution, and transfusion in the setting of brain-injury and stroke. The second portion is a systematic review to identify studies assessing the association between anemia or the use of red blood cell transfusions and relevant clinical outcomes in various neurocritical care populations.

Results
There have been no randomized controlled trials that have adequately assessed optimal transfusion thresholds specifically among brain-injured patients. The importance of ischemia and the implications of anemia are not necessarily the same for all neurocritical care conditions. Nevertheless, there exists an extensive body of experimental work, as well as human observational and physiologic studies, which have advanced knowledge in this area and provide some guidance to clinicians. Lower hemoglobin concentrations are consistently associated with worse physiologic parameters and clinical outcomes; however, this relationship may not be altered by more aggressive use of red blood cell transfusions.

Conclusions
Although hemoglobin concentrations as low as 7 g/dl are well tolerated in most critical care patients, such a severe degree of anemia could be harmful in brain-injured patients. Randomized controlled trials of different transfusion thresholds, specifically in neurocritical care settings, are required. The impact of the duration of blood storage on the neurologic implications of transfusion also requires further investigation.
Significance Evaluation of Material and Additive Factors Influencing Moisture Susceptibility of Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Zeng Menglan , Wu Chaofan , Huang Kaiyu 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
Many factors have been identified to have influences on the moisture susceptibility of asphalt mixtures. This research study attempts to evaluate such factors as binder type, aggregate type, mixture type, additive usage, additive type, additive application approach, and additive organic nature. Tensile strength ratio (TSR) was tested on twelve asphalt mixtures of three types, with two binders and three aggregates, and with improving measures as three antistripping additives and two application approaches. Multiple variable statistical analyses were employed on the TSR data in assessing the significance of the factor. Test results and data analyses indicate that the extent of the influence varies considerably from one factor to another. The styrene-butadiene-styrene modified binder is superior to neat petroleum binder for producing asphalt mixtures subject to damp conditions. Granite, basalt, and limestone aggregates make asphalt mixtures that are least, in-between, and most resistant to moisture damage, respectively. Compared with dense graded asphalt concrete (AC) and stone matrix asphalt (SMA) mixtures, porous asphalt macadam (AM) mixtures are more prone to stripping. The usage of inorganic hydrated lime and Portland cement, and organic amine antistripping agent can substantially improve the moisture susceptibility of asphalt mixtures; the wet approach for applying the inorganic additives can result in better effects than the dry approach. Different additives show little difference in improving effects with mixed trends and the inorganic and organic additives are similar in performance with variations that are immaterial.
Preliminary Study on Asphalt Emulsion Used in Cement Asphalt Mortar
Authors: Fazhou Wang , Yunhua Zhang , Yunpeng Liu , Tao Gao , Jinzhong Zou , Liang Chen 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
Asphalt emulsion is an important component in the preparation of cement asphalt mortar. In the work reported here, different emulsifiers and basic asphalts were used to manufacture emulsions and their properties were investigated. Results indicate that a diamine-based emulsifier renders asphalt emulsion that exhibits better compatibility with cement; lower density and higher ductility basic asphalt; and that styrene-butadiene-styrene modifiers are more appropriate in the manufacturing of emulsion.
The Damage Analysis of Asphalt Pavement Under Repeated Loads
Authors: Jingsong Shan , Xiaoming Huang 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
Generally, the process of pavement deterioration occurs before the macrocrack appearing in asphalt pavement structure. It is always useful to understand the causes of pavement cracking and present preventive measures. In this paper, damage regularity of asphalt pavement under the condition of repeated loading is studied in terms of dynamic damage finite element method. The software ABAQUS was used for calculation and subroutine of damage was obtained by using the interface of the vectorized user material routine. The relationships between the times of loading and the damage degree, maximum tension stress of element and maximum tension strain of element are analyzed and discussed.
Optimal Bitumen-Aggregate Ratio Selection Method of Hot Mix Asphalt Based on Closest Compaction Condition
Authors: Wang Xu-dong , Zhang Lei 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
An optimal bitumen-aggregate ratio selection method for hot mix asphalt, based on aggregate closest compact condition, was introduced. According to research, high correlation within dry density, voids in mineral aggregate (VMA) and voids in coarse aggregate (VCA) versus bitumen-aggregate ratio was discovered. Dry density increases with increase of bitumen-aggregate ratio until it reaches a peak, and then decreases. VMA and VCA have the inverse trend. The advantage of the unique extreme point rule of the conic is the relationship of bitumen-aggregate ratio versus dry density and that the VMA and VCA can be indicated by conic regression analysis, and the corresponding bitumen-aggregate ratio can be achieved as well. In this paper, the new design method was adopted for hot mix asphalt in various gradations and the differences from the previous design method were also illustrated. The inaccurate bitumen-aggregate ratio due to previous design criterion can be avoided through setting the closest compact condition. This can also be recommended as the design criterion.
Metabolic effects of pulsatile insulin infusion in the elderly
Authors: Paolisso Giuseppe , Salvatore Teresa , Sgambato Saverio , Torella Roberto , Varricchio Michele , D'Onofrio Felice 
Published: June 2009

Abstract.
The present study investigated the metabolic effects of pulsatile insulin delivery at a pulse rate of 2+ 11 and 2+18 min in 7 healthy, elderly subjects (71.4±2.1 years), submitted to 260 min controlled iv glucose infusion via the Biostator. The endogenous secretion of pancreatic hormones was inhibited by somatostatin (3 μg/min) and glucagon was replaced (67 ng/min) to basal levels. The same total insulin dose was delivered on both occasions. Insulin infusion rate was 1.3 and 2.0 mIU · kg−1 · min−1 during switching on/off of 2+11 and 2+18 min, respectively. Blood glucose levels and glucose infusion rate were monitored continuously by the Biostator; [D-3-3H]glucose infusion allowed determination of glucose turnover. During the last 60 min of the experiment, pulsatile insulin at a pulse rate of 2+11 vs 2+18 min produced a stronger inhibition of endogenous glucose production, whereas glucose disappearance rate and glucose metabolic clearance rate were similarly affected. Plasma triglycerides, apolipoprotein B, and free fatty acids levels were also more suppressed during insulin delivery at pulse rate of 2+11 than at 2+18 min.