bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Parametric quantification of myocardial ischaemia using real‐time perfusion adenosine stress echocardiography images, with SPECT as reference method
Authors: Gudmundsson P. , Shahgaldi K. , Winter R. , Dencker M. , Kitlinski M. , Thorsson O. , Ljunggren L. , Willenheimer R. 
Published: December 2009

SummaryBackground:  Real‐time perfusion (RTP) adenosine stress echocardiography (ASE) can be used to visually evaluate myocardial ischaemia. The RTP power modulation technique, provides images for off‐line parametric perfusion quantification using Qontrast® software. From replenishment curves, this generates parametric images of peak signal intensity (A), myocardial blood flow velocity (β) and myocardial blood flow (Axβ) at rest and stress. This may be a tool for objective myocardial ischaemia evaluation. We assessed myocardial ischaemia by RTP‐ASE Qontrast®‐generated images, using 99mTc‐tetrofosmin single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) as reference.Methods:  Sixty‐seven patients admitted to SPECT underwent RTP‐ASE (SONOS 5500) during Sonovue® infusion, before and throughout adenosine stress, also used for SPECT. Quantitative off‐line analyses of myocardial perfusion by RTP‐ASE Qontrast®‐generated A, β and Axβ images, at different time points during rest and stress, were blindly compared to SPECT.Results:  We analysed 201 coronary territories [corresponding to the left anterior descendent (LAD), left circumflex (LCx) and right coronary (RCA) arteries] from 67 patients. SPECT showed ischaemia in 18 patients. Receiver operator characteristics and kappa values showed that A, β and Axβ image interpretation significantly identified ischaemia in all territories (area under the curve 0·66–0·80, P = 0·001–0·05). Combined A, β and Axβ image interpretation gave the best results and the closest agreement was seen in the LAD territory: 89% accuracy; kappa 0·63; P<0·001.Conclusion:  Myocardial isachemia can be evaluated in the LAD territory using RTP‐ASE Qontrast®‐generated images, especially by combined A, β and Axβ image interpretation. However, the technique needs improvements regarding the LCx and RCA territories.
Clonal Dissemination of
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Carbapenemase KPC-3 in Long Beach, California
Authors: Le Jennifer , Castanheira Mariana , Burgess David S. , McKee Barbara , Iqbal Raza , Jones Ronald N. 
Published: December 2009

ABSTRACT

Carbapenems (CARBs) are the primary treatment for infections caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing
Klebsiella pneumoniae
strains. Production of a serine carbapenemase, KPC, is increasing alarmingly in the United States and is probably contributing to CARB resistance rates. We describe the clinical and molecular characteristics of four infections caused by KPC-3
K. pneumoniae
strains.
A Dialogue in Pictures. Reform Buddhism and Christianity in the Works of Ven. Hatigammana Uttarananda / Sri Lanka
Authors: Küster Volker 
Published: December 2009

AbstractThe monk Ven. Hatigammana Uttarananda represents a reform Buddhism that is socio-politically engaged in the conflict-ridden context of Sri Lanka. As an artist he is the Buddhist alter ego of the well-known Catholic liberation theologian Aloysius Pieris. The later commissioned Uttarananda to realize his first Christian mural in the Tulana Centre for Dialogue. With translation, questioning and exchange Uttananada’s works allow exploring different patterns of interreligious dialogue.
You Have To Say You Cannot Speak: Feminist Reflections Upon Public Theology
Authors: Walton Heather 
Published: December 2009

AbstractThis article reflects upon the problems I experience in finding a methodology for public theology. A number of current models are explored but are not found to resolve the difficulties experienced in articulating a progressive theological contribution to public debate. The article goes on to argue that feminist theology provides helpful resources for provisional, pragmatic and creative theological reflection. However, a more radical critique of the genre of public theology is required in order to speak of God in the contemporary context.
Simone Weil: Resistance and Writing
Authors: Loades Ann 
Published: December 2009

AbstractSimone Weil lived and wrote as a philosopher, theologian and political theorist, without keeping boundaries between these fields. She remains important, given her reflections on work, violence and non-violence, and the significance of each person’s orientation towards transcendent good. She raised important issues about critical and constructive appreciation of both ancient and current religious tradition, and about sensitive personal conscience and responsibility, especially in both political and ecclesiastical institutions. She refused the restriction of religious conviction to the margins of social and political life. Her work was incomplete, but remains a remarkable source of stimulus for work in a range of disciplines.
An Internet-Based Program to Improve Self-Management in Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Mulvaney Shelagh A. , Rothman Russell L. , Wallston Kenneth A. , Lybarger Cindy , Dietrich Mary S. 
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVE
To report results from YourWay, an Internet-based self-management intervention for adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
A total of 72 adolescents with type 1 diabetes, ages 13–17 years, were randomized to a usual-care-plus-Internet support or a usual-care group. The intervention was designed to enhance problem-solving barriers to self-management. A1C was obtained from medical records, and problem-solving and self-management were obtained via adolescent report.

RESULTS
Group differences were not statistically significant using intent-to-treat analyses. Using as-treated analyses, adolescents in the treatment condition showed statistically significant improvement in self-management (d = 0.64; P = 0.02) and important improvements in problem-solving (d = 0.30; P = 0.23) and A1C (d = −0.28; P = 0.27). Mean A1C for the intervention group remained constant (−0.01%), while the control group increased (0.33%).

CONCLUSIONS
This brief trial suggests that self-management support delivered through a secure website may improve self-management and offset typical decreases in adolescent glycemic control.
Recapitulation and Reversal of a Persistent Depression‐like Syndrome in Rodents
Authors: Gourley Shannon L. , Taylor Jane R. 
Published: December 2009

AbstractAlterations in multiple biological functions, such as transcription factor activity, are implicated in the neurobiology of depression, based primarily on the characterization of antidepressant efficacy in naïve rodents rather than on models that capture the protracted feelings of anhedonia and helplessness that typify depression. This unit presents rat and mouse models of depression that involve chronic oral exposure to the stress‐associated adrenal hormone, corticosterone (CORT), resulting in anhedonic‐ and helplessness‐like behaviors that are persistent yet reversible by chronic antidepressant treatment. Prior CORT exposure also chronically influences molecular targets hypothesized to contribute to negative mood. One example is phosphorylation of cAMP response element binding protein in the hippocampus and nucleus accumbens. Prior chronic CORT exposure provides an alternative method to chronic mild stress models of depression that is easily replicable and persists well beyond the CORT exposure period, thereby modeling the persistent depressive‐like state in humans. Curr. Protoc. Neurosci. 49:9.32.1‐9.32.11. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Chemokines and Chemokine Receptors
Authors: Juan Manel , Colobran Roger 
Published: December 2009

Abstract

Chemokines (CKs) are a family of small proteins secreted by a great variety of cell types. Their name (derived from
chemo
attractant cyto
kines
) is due to their ability to induce directed chemotaxis in nearby responsive cells. Some CKs are considered pro‐inflammatory and can be induced during an immune response to promote cells of the immune system to a site of infection, whereas others are considered homeostatic and are involved in controlling the migration of cells during normal processes of tissue maintenance or development. CKs are found in all vertebrates, some viruses and some bacteria. These proteins exert their biological effects by interacting with G protein‐linked transmembrane receptors called chemokine receptors (CKRs) that are selectively found on the surfaces of their target cells. CKs play roles in cell maturation and differentiation, infection, autoimmunity, cancer and, in general, in any situation where immune components are involved. Their role in
human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV) infection is of special relevance.

Key concepts:

Chemokines (CKs), as chemoattractant cytokines, are pivotal elements for defining immune cell localization and, therefore, efficient immune responses.

Beyond their role in chemotaxis, CKs and their receptors develop several physiopathological functions: angiogenesis, haematopoiesis, growth regulation, embryologic development, evolution of tumours, etc.

CKs have three types of receptors: ‘classical’ G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs), decoy receptors and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs).

After activation, GPCRs become either partially or totally desensitized to repeated stimulation with the same or other agonists; desensitization is critical for maintaining the capacity of the cell to sense a chemoattractant gradient.

Decoy receptors are ‘silent’ receptors that control the CK activity through regulation of CK levels in the body.

CK immobilization through the GAG interaction stabilizes the formation of CK gradients and enhances their concentration at the site of production.

All CKs have a common structure, being the first couple of cysteines (Cs) a distinctive element that allows classifying them in CC, CXC, CX
3
C and C CK families.

Most of inflammatory CK genes are clustered in two main chromosomal regions: the CXC cluster, located in chromosome 4q12–21, and the CC cluster, located in chromosome 17q11.2.

The ‘evolutionary choice’ of HIV‐1 to exploit CKRs as cellular entry gateways has turned their CK ligands into endogenous antiviral factors that can variably modulate viral transmission, disease progression and vaccine responses.
Orbiviruses andBluetongue Virus
Authors: Mertens Peter , Attoui Houssam 
Published: December 2009

AbstractBluetongue virus(BTV) is the type species of the genusOrbiviruswithin the familyReoviridae(the largest double‐strandedribonucleic acid(dsRNA) virus family). BTV is an arthropod‐borne pathogen that is transmitted by the bites of its vector, theCulicoidesmidges, which transmit the virus between its ruminant hosts. The virus can infect most species of domestic and wild ruminants. BT clinical signs are most common in sheep and some species of deer. In recent years, the distribution of BTV has changed considerably, particularly in Europe. New outbreaks have occurred each year from 1998 to 2006 in southern and central Europe, involving several strains from five different serotypes. In 2006, BTV serotype 8 caused an outbreak approximately 5° further north in Europe than ever before, infecting ruminants in a wide area across northern Europe and bringing the number of European serotypes to six. A new virus (Toggenburg virus) has been identified in goats from Switzerland in 2008 and designated as the twenty‐fifth serotype of BTV.Key concepts:GenusOrbivirusis the most diverse genus of familyReoviridaecontaining 22 virus species.Bluetongue disease affects mainly sheep causing severe clinical signs and high mortality.Bluetongue virusis transmitted by competent species ofCulicoidesmidges.Phylogenetic analysis identifies two major groups of orbiviruses, those with their subcore shell protein (T2 protein) being the VP2 and those with the T2 being VP3. Orbiviruses are nonturreted members of familyReoviridae, and the atomic structure of BTV core has been determined.
Hypersensitivity:TLymphocyte‐mediated (TypeIV)
Authors: Actor Jeffrey K , Ampel Neil M 
Published: December 2009

AbstractFive types of hypersensitivity reactions have been described: types I, II, III and V depend on the interaction of antigen with antibody and have been termed immediate; type IV depends on the interaction of antigen with T lymphocytes and has been called delayed‐type hypersensitivity, or DTH. The DTH reaction involves cellular activation of T‐helper cells (CD4+) and/or cytotoxic T cells (CD8+ CTLs). Subsequent cytokine secretion gives rise to distinct pathologies. In many cases, sustained release of antigen and continued activation of sensitized T cells results in amplification of responses that provoke excessive macrophage activation. These events are the basis for development of a broad range of inflammatory pathologies which range from erythema and oedema to granuloma formation, to extended development of fibrosis and even tissue necrosis.Key Concepts:Type IV hypersensitivity (also calleddelayed‐type hypersensitivity, DTH) represents immune reactivity where lymphocytes have had prior encounter with antigen.The DTH is conferred by sensitized T lymphocytes, but not by serum factors.The DTH reaction involves T lymphocyte interactions with antigen culminating in cellular recruitment and activation, and subsequent cytokine secretion.Because the T cell‐mediated responses require induced synthesis of effector molecules they develop more slowly, thus they are termed ‘delayed‐type’ hypersensitive responses.DTH responses can manifest from contact with allergens or infectious agents, giving rise to localized inflammation, erythema and oedema.The classical manifestations of DTH are defined as cutaneous (contact), tuberculin or granulomatous hypersensitivity.The DTH evolved as a protective host mechanism to combat pathogens; however, excessive DTH responses can lead to immunopathology, exhibited by granuloma formation, fibrosis or even tissue necrosis.DTH reactions are prominent in autoimmune diseases, and have also been demonstrated to play a role in the response to transplantation of tissue from a genetically different donor (allogeneic transplantation).
Lateral Meristems
Authors: Etchells J Peter , Turner Simon 
Published: December 2009

Abstract

Radial growth of plants is the result of activity of the lateral meristems. These meristems, known as the vascular and cork cambiums, are active in areas of the plant where primary growth has ceased and are therefore referred to as secondary meristems. The lateral meristems encircle the body of the plant. They are distinguished from apical meristems, which form the primary body of the plant, in several ways, but most noticeably in the proximity of the lateral meristem to the tissues that they produce. A proper understanding of lateral meristems may be considered as a problem of two parts: (1) how are cell divisions in the meristem regulated and (2) what controls the differentiation of new cells into specialized cell types.

Key Concepts:

Lateral meristems are referred to as the vascular cambium and cork cambium.

Cell divisions in lateral meristems are responsible for increases in plant girth.

Ordered cell divisions along vascular initials are required for organization of lateral meristems.

Plant growth regulators like auxin, cytokinin and ethylene increase cambial activity.
Infections in the Secondary Immunocompromised Host
Authors: Elizabeth Snape Susan , Venkatesan Pradhib 
Published: December 2009

Abstract

Deficiency in host defences allows infections to occur with greater frequency. Their nature and presentation may be unusual and hence diagnosis may be difficult. The type, severity and duration of immunocompromise determine the infections to which the host is vulnerable. Unlike in primary immunocompromised patients, the susceptibility of secondary immunocompromised patients to infection often changes during the course of their illness as their immune function may vary with the use of immunosuppressive drugs or highly active antiretroviral agents prescribed for those with human immunodeficiency virus. This article highlights the timing of host susceptibility to specific infections in relation to the course of their illness and treatment. Growing numbers of immunocompromised patients make this a key area for those involved in managing infections. A number of strategies are employed to combat the infectious threat ranging from prophylaxis to pre‐emptive, empirical and definitive treatment regimens.

Key concepts:
Immunocompromised patients are susceptible to a range of opportunistic infections due to deficiencies in their immune defences. Approaches to diagnosis, investigation and management in the secondary immunocompromised host are explored.
Protein Stability
Authors: Pace C Nick , Grimsley Gerald R , Scholtz J Martin 
Published: December 2009

Abstract

Proteins must fold to a globular conformation to carry out the most important tasks in living organisms. The folded, biologically active conformation of a protein is only marginally more stable than unfolded, inactive conformations, thus making proteins more stable is important in medicine and basic research. The major destabilizing force that must be overcome is conformational entropy. The major stabilizing forces are the hydrophobic effect and hydrogen bonding. The ionizable side‐chains of amino acid residues may also contribute favourably to protein stability through attractive charge–charge interactions, ion pair formation, or the formation of hydrogen bonds when such groups are buried in the protein interior.

Key Concepts

Under physiological conditions, a folded protein is ≈20 to 60 kJmol
–1
more stable than unfolded forms.

The major destabilizing force to protein folding is conformational entropy, which contributes ≈7 kJ mol
−1
per residue.

The major stabilizing forces are the hydrophobic effect, where the burying of each –CH
2
– contributes ≈−5 kJ mol
−1
, and hydrogen bonding, especially buried intramolecular hydrogen bonds, which may contribute ≈−7 kJ mol
−1
per bond.

The ionizable side‐chains of amino acid residues may contribute favourably to protein stability through attractive charge–charge interactions, ion pair formation and hydrogen bonding when the ionizable group is buried in the protein interior.
Predation on Animals
Authors: Prudic Kathleen L 
Published: December 2009

AbstractThe word predator often invokes a vision of a fierce and cruel animal the world would be better without. However, predation is a major ecological process controlling both the structure and function of communities. Predation affects the distribution and abundance of species, the strength and direction of energy flow within a system and the diversity and composition of communities. Predators play an essential role in evolution. Traits that decrease the likelihood of being predated and traits that increase the efficacy of the predating are under strong selection. This process has resulted in a vast array of prey defences and predator counter‐defences. Also, according to recent studies of the fossil record, predation has played a central role in determining the history of life on earth. Thus, predators are not to be viewed as cold‐blooded killers; instead, predation is a critical process for maintaining species diversity in both ecological and evolutionary time.Key ConceptsPredators are animals which actively catch and consume other animals.Predators may be limited in the type of prey they consume; these limitations may be extrinsic, due to factors such as prey abundance, or they may be intrinsic, where the predators’ physiological, reproductive or ecological requirements result in specialization on certain types of prey.Predation is a crucial ecological force because it moves energy through the system.Mathematical models and empirical research illustrate how predators and their prey coexist and should cycle through time.Prey species evolve defences that reduce their vulnerability to predators whereas predators evolve adaptations to counter the defences of the prey.Predator–prey interactions structured ancient, fossil ecosystems and played a role in determining the history of life on earth.
Phylogeography
Authors: Sites Jack W , Morando Mariana 
Published: December 2009

AbstractPhylogeography is a relatively young discipline, having been introduced into the literature in 1987. Its original focus was the analysis of gene trees (derived from molecular sequence data) in spatial geographic contexts, and for almost a decade, the field was dominated by the use of the mitochondrialdeoxyribonucleic acid(DNA) locus (in animals). Because phylogeography contains an explicit tree‐based focus on population genetic questions, it has successfully linked this discipline to the previously disconnected domain of phylogenetic systematics. From a largely descriptive beginning, phylogeography has become more rigorous by the inclusion of independent nuclear gene loci, more quantitative by incorporation of various statistical methods (nested clade phylogeographic analysis, statistical phylogeography) and more synthetic by incorporation of coalescent theory (using gene trees to estimate species trees) and data and methods from disciplines such as landscape genetics, palaeoecology and palaeoclimatology. Modern phylogeography has many applications to other disciplines of biology.Key concepts:Phylogeography is the study of the spatial and temporal distribution of gene sequences in populations of a single species, or among closely related species.Phylogeographic studies draw heavily on other disciplines, including geology, palynology, GIS layers of environmental records, population biology, coalescent theory and community ecology.Phylogeographic studies are increasingly being used to study multiple unrelated species that share the same geographic distributions, in an attempt to identify shared signals of historical events (such as stream captures, glacial cycles and marine transgressions) that contributed to population divergence and speciation in multiple groups.Phylogeography can contribute to knowledge of speciation and the assembly of community structure and identify geographic areas of high genetic diversity and/or regions where evolutionary processes may be identified and included in conservation planning on regional scales.
Genetic Factors in Life Insurance: Actuarial Basis
Authors: Macdonald Angus S 
Published: December 2009

Abstract

Insurance risk assessment is based on probabilistic models of the timing and severity of the event insured against. In the presence of genetic risk factors, the problem is similar to estimating age‐related penetrance and survival rates. There are no data from insurers’ past experience; all studies rely on the medical literature. Most actuarial research relates to severe single‐gene disorders, whose impact on insurance may be limited because of their rarity. Very little research has been done in respect of multifactorial disorders, but it may tentatively be concluded that they will have little relevance for life insurance.

Key Concepts:

There is concern that life insurers will use genetic test results to charge higher premiums to persons at increased risk, leading to an uninsurable ‘genetic underclass’.

Insurers are vulnerable to adverse selection if applicants are able to conceal information relevant to the risk.

Severe, dominantly inherited, late‐onset single‐gene disorders do lead to significantly higher premiums, but are sufficiently rare that it seems unlikely that adverse selection is a material risk.

The genetic contribution to complex multifactorial disorders is not likely to be more important than that of other, well understood, risk factors.