bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Defective inhibition of B-cell proliferation by Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein-deficient regulatory T cells
Authors: Adriani Marsilio , Jones Krysten A. , Uchiyama Toru , Kirby Martha R. , Silvin Christopher , Anderson Stacie M. , Candotti Fabio 
Published: April 2011

Abstract
Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS) is an inherited immunodeficiency characterized by high incidence of autoantibody-mediated autoimmune complications. Such a feature has been associated with defective suppressor activity of WAS protein-deficient, naturally occurring CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells on responder T cells. However, it remains to be established whether the altered B-cell tolerance reported in WAS patients and Was knockout (WKO) mice is secondary to abnormalities in the direct suppression of B-cell function by nTreg cells or to impaired regulation of T-helper function. Because activated nTreg cells are known to induce granzyme B–mediated B-cell killing, we decided to evaluate the regulatory capabilities of WKO nTregs on B lymphocytes. We found that preactivated WKO nTreg cells failed to effectively suppress B-cell proliferation and that such a defect was associated with reduced killing of B cells and significantly decreased degranulation of granzyme B. Altogether, these results provide additional mechanistic insights into the loss of immune tolerance in WAS.
Inhibition of antithrombin by Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein II
Authors: Ndonwi Matthew , Burlingame Oname O. , Miller Aaron S. , Tollefsen Douglas M. , Broze George J. , Goldberg Daniel E. 
Published: April 2011

AbstractHistidine-rich protein II (HRPII) is an abundant protein released into the bloodstream by Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes the most severe form of human malaria. Here, we report that HRPII binds tightly and selectively to coagulation-active glycosaminoglycans (dermatan sulfate, heparan sulfate, and heparin) and inhibits antithrombin (AT). In purified systems, recombinant HRPII neutralized the heparin-catalyzed inhibition of factor Xa and thrombin by AT in a Zn2+-dependent manner. The observed 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) for the HRPII neutralization of AT activity is approximately 30nM for factor Xa inhibition and 90nM for thrombin inhibition. Zn2+ was required for these reactions with a distribution coefficient (Kd) of approximately 7μM. Substituting Zn2+ with Cu2+, but not with Ca2+, Mg2+, or Fe2+, maintained the HRPII effect. HRPII attenuated the prolongation in plasma clotting time induced by heparin, suggesting that HRPII inhibits AT activity by preventing its stimulation by heparin. In the microvasculature, where erythrocytes infected with P falciparum are sequestered, high levels of released HRPII may bind cellular glycosaminoglycans, prevent their interaction with AT, and thereby contribute to the procoagulant state associated with P falciparum infection.
Plasma HHV8 DNA predicts relapse in individuals with HIV-associated multicentric Castleman disease
Authors: Stebbing Justin , Adams Caroline , Sanitt Adam , Mletzko Salvinia , Nelson Mark , Gazzard Brian , Newsom-Davis Tom , Bower Mark 
Published: April 2011

Abstract
HIV-associated multicentric Castleman disease (HIV-MCD) is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder caused by infection with human herpesvirus-8. The disease follows a relapsing and remitting clinical course, with marked systemic symptoms during an active attack, which can prove fatal. Its incidence is rising, and new data indicate the utility of the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab at inducing remissions in both first- and second-line settings, although biomarkers associated with relapse have not been previously identified. In 52 individuals with a histologic diagnosis of HIV-MCD, we performed univariate and multivariate analyses to predict factors associated with an HIV-MCD attack. Although a younger age (< 50 years) was associated with an attack, the strongest association was observed with plasma levels of human herpesvirus-8 DNA. Rising levels predicted an attack (hazard ratio = 2.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.3-6.7), and maintenance therapy with rituximab should be considered in these individuals.
Genetic population structure of the alpine species Rhododendron pseudochrysanthum sensu lato (Ericaceae) inferred from chloroplast and nuclear DNA
Authors: Huang Chi-Chun , Hung Kuo-Hsiang , Hwang Chi-Chuan , Huang Jao-Ching , Lin Hung-Du , Wang Wei-Kuang , Wu Pei-Yin , Hsu Tsai-Wen , Chiang Tzen-Yuh 
Published: April 2011

Abstract

Background
A complex of incipient species with different degrees of morphological or ecological differentiation provides an ideal model for studying species divergence. We examined the phylogeography and the evolutionary history of the Rhododendron pseudochrysanthum s. l.

Results
Systematic inconsistency was detected between gene genealogies of the cpDNA and nrDNA. Rooted at R. hyperythrum and R. formosana, both trees lacked reciprocal monophyly for all members of the complex. For R. pseudochrysanthum s.l., the spatial distribution of the cpDNA had a noteworthy pattern showing high genetic differentiation (FST = 0.56-0.72) between populations in the Yushan Mountain Range and populations of the other mountain ranges.

Conclusion
Both incomplete lineage sorting and interspecific hybridization/introgression may have contributed to the lack of monophyly among R. hyperythrum, R. formosana and R. pseudochrysanthum s.l. Independent colonizations, plus low capabilities of seed dispersal in current environments, may have resulted in the genetic differentiation between populations of different mountain ranges. At the population level, the populations of Central, and Sheishan Mountains may have undergone postglacial demographic expansion, while populations of the Yushan Mountain Range are likely to have remained stable ever since the colonization. In contrast, the single population of the Alishan Mountain Range with a fixed cpDNA haplotype may have experienced bottleneck/founder's events.
Preventable maternal mortality: Geographic/rural-urban differences and associated factors from the population-based maternal mortality surveillance system in China
Authors: Liang Juan , Dai Li , Zhu Jun , Li Xiaohong , Zeng Weiyue , Wang He , Li Qi , Li Mingrong , Zhou Rong , Wang Yanping 
Published: April 2011

Abstract

Background
Most maternal deaths in developing countries can be prevented. China is among the 13 countries with the most maternal deaths; however, there has been a marked decrease in the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) over the last 3 decades. China's reduction in the MMR has contributed significantly to the global decline of the MMR. This study examined the geographic and rural-urban differences, time trends and related factors in preventable maternal deaths in China during 1996-2005, with the aim of providing reliable evidence for effective interventions.

Methods
Data were retrieved from the population-based maternal mortality surveillance system in China. Each death was reviewed by three committees to determine whether it was avoidable. The preventable maternal mortality ratio (PMMR), the ratios of PMMR (risk ratio, RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to analyze regional disparities (coastal, inland and remote regions) and rural-urban variations. Time trends in the MMR, along with underlying causes and associated factors of death, were also analysed.

Results
Overall, 86.1% of maternal mortality was preventable. The RR of preventable maternal mortality adjusted by region was 2.79 (95% CI 2.42-3.21) and 2.38 (95% CI: 2.01-2.81) in rural areas compared to urban areas during the 1996-2000 and 2001-2005 periods, respectively. Meanwhile, the RR was the highest in remote areas, which was 4.80(95%CI: 4.10-5.61) and 4.74(95%CI: 3.86-5.83) times as much as that of coastal areas. Obstetric haemorrhage accounted for over 50% of preventable deaths during the 2001-2005 period. Insufficient information about pregnancy among women in remote areas and out-of-date knowledge and skills of health professionals and substandard obstetric services in coastal regions were the factors frequently associated with MMR.

Conclusions
Preventable maternal mortality and the distribution of its associated factors in China revealed obvious regional differences. The PMMR was higher in underdeveloped regions. In future interventions in remote and inland areas, more emphasis should be placed on improving women's ability to utilize healthcare services, enhancing the service capability of health institutions, and increasing the accessibility of obstetric services. These approaches will effectively lower PMMR in those regions and narrow the gap among the different regions.
Oral health in the Japan self-defense forces - a representative survey
Authors: Kudo Yuka , John Mike T , Saito Yoko , Sur Shachi , Furuyama Chisako , Tsukasaki Hiroaki , Baba Kazuyoshi 
Published: April 2011

Abstract

Background
The oral health of military populations is usually not very well characterized compared to civilian populations. The aim of this study was to investigate two physical oral health characteristics and one perceived oral health measure and their correlation in the Japan self-defense forces (JSDF).

Methods
Number of missing teeth, denture status, and OHRQoL as evaluated by the Japanese 14-item version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-J14) as well as the correlation between these oral health measures was investigated in 911 personnel in the JSDF.

Results
Subjects did not have a substantial number of missing teeth and only 4% used removable dentures. The mean OHIP-J14 score was 4.6 ± 6.7 units. The magnitude of the correlation between the number of missing teeth with OHIP-J14 scores was small (r = 0.22, p < 0.001). Mean OHIP-J14 scores differed between subjects with and without dentures (8.6 and 4.4, p < 0.001).

Conclusions
Compared to Japanese civilian populations, personnel of the JSDF demonstrated good oral health. Two physical oral health characteristics were associated with perceived oral health.
The NS1 protein of influenza a virus interacts with heat shock protein Hsp90 in human alveolar basal epithelial cells: Implication for virus-induced apoptosis
Authors: Zhang Chuanfu , Yang Yutao , Zhou Xiaowei , Yang Zhixin , Liu Xuelin , Cao Zhiliang , Song Hongbin , He Yuxian , Huang Peitang 
Published: April 2011

Abstract

Background
Our previous study showed that the NS1 protein of highly pathogenic avian influenza A virus H5N1 induced caspase-dependent apoptosis in human alveolar basal epithelial cells (A549), supporting its function as a proapoptotic factor during viral infection, but the mechanism is still unknown.

Results
To characterize the mechanism of NS1-induced apoptosis, we used a two-hybrid system to isolate the potential NS1-interacting partners in A549 cells. We found that heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) was able to interact with the NS1 proteins derived from both H5N1 and H3N2 viruses, which was verified by co-immunoprecitation assays. Significantly, the NS1 expression in the A549 cells dramatically weakened the interaction between Apaf-1 and Hsp90 but enhanced its interaction with cytochrome c (Cyt c), suggesting that the competitive binding of NS1 to Hsp90 might promote the Apaf-1 to associate with Cyt c and thus facilitate the activation of caspase 9 and caspase 3.

Conclusions
The present results demonstrate that NS1 protein of Influenza A Virus interacts with heat hock protein Hsp90 and meidates the apoptosis induced by influenza A virus through the caspase cascade.
Minireview: Glucocorticoids in Autoimmunity: Unexpected Targets and Mechanisms
Authors: Flammer Jamie R. , Rogatsky Inez 
Published: April 2011

AbstractFor decades, natural and synthetic glucocorticoids (GC) have been among the most commonly prescribed classes of immunomodulatory drugs. Their unsurpassed immunosuppressive and antiinflammatory activity along with cost-effectiveness makes these compounds a treatment of choice for the majority of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, despite serious side effects that frequently accompany GC therapy. The activated GC receptor (GR) that conveys the signaling information of these steroid ligands to the transcriptional machinery engages a number of pathways to ultimately suppress autoimmune responses. Of those, GR-mediated apoptosis of numerous cell types of hematopoietic origin and suppression of proinflammatory cytokine gene expression have been described as the primary mechanisms responsible for the antiinflammatory actions of GC. However, along with the ever-increasing appreciation of the complex functions of the immune system in health and disease, we are beginning to recognize new facets of GR actions in immune cells. Here, we give a brief overview of the extensive literature on the antiinflammatory activities of GC and discuss in greater detail the unexpected pathways, factors, and mechanisms that have recently begun to emerge as novel targets for GC-mediated immunosuppression.
The Role of European Women and the Question of Mixed Couples in the Algerian Nationalist Movement in France, Circa 1918–1962
Authors: MacMaster Neil 
Published: April 2011

Interwar migration of Algerian workers to France, predominantly a movement of single males, led to the formation of numerous mixed couples, a pattern that was remarkably different from the high level of ethnic and religious segregation in the colony. This article examines the significant but largely unrecognized role of European women in the émigré nationalist movement. After 1945, and in particular with the start of the War of Independence, family reunification led to a rapid increase in female emigration, enabling a more “patriotic” form of marriage. Concurrently, the influence of the reformist Ulema, which opposed mixed marriage as a symbol of Western assimilation and the subversion of Arabic culture, language, and identity, spread into the nationalist movement. In the latent conflict between more secular, socialist, and progressive currents in the French Federation of the Front de Libération Nationale that accepted or engaged in mixed-couple relations and a religiously inspired, exclusionary, and chauvinistic form of nationalism, the latter won out in the postcolonial state, initiating a long phase of antifeminist reaction.
La migration des travailleurs algériens en France entre les deux guerres, composée essentiellement d'hommes seuls, mena à la formation de nombreux couples d'origines mixtes, condition très différente de celle de la colonie, caractérisée par un haut niveau de ségrégation ethnique et religieuse. L'article examine le rôle considérable des femmes européennes dans le mouvement nationaliste des émigrés algériens, rôle jusqu'ici très peu reconnu. Après 1945, et surtout à partir du début de la guerre d'indépendance, une tendance vers la réunification familiale et l'émigration féminine facilitait des mariages de caractère plus « patriotique ». En même temps, l'influence réformiste des ulémas pénétrait le mouvement nationaliste, s'opposant au mariage mixte, qu'ils représentaient comme symbole d'une domination occidentale et comme une subversion de la culture, langue et identité arabes. Dans le conflit larvé qui opposait d'une part un courant laïc, socialiste et progressiste de la Fédération de France du Front de libération nationale, qui acceptait et pratiquait le couple mixte, et d'autre part un nationalisme d'inspiration plus religieuse, conservatrice et chauvine, c'est ce dernier qui triompha dans l'état postcolonial, ce qui initia une longue période de réaction antiféministe.
Regional Republicans: The Alsatian Socialists and the Politics of Primary Schooling in Alsace, 1918–1939
Authors: Carrol Alison 
Published: April 2011

This article deals with political discussions about the place of language and religion in interwar Alsatian primary schools viewed through the lens of the local Socialist Party (SFIO). After Alsace's return to France in 1918, primary schools exemplified the problematic process of reintegrating the province, and parties from across the political spectrum discussed the appropriate language of instruction and whether Alsatian school-children should receive religious education. For the Alsatian Socialists, the answer lay in the broad reform needed to ease reintegration and was motivated by their self-proclaimed republicanism. Thus the party argued for secularity, which would place the province on the same terrain as all other parts of France, and for bilingualism, which would allow the retention of Alsatian regional cultures. In making this argument, the Alsatian SFIO revealed that not everyone in interwar France associated regional language with religion or believed that republican ideas needed to come packaged in the French language. Moreover, the SFIO's actions offer insight into the development of regional political cultures and the varieties of grassroots republicanism in interwar France.
Cet article étudie les débats ayant trait à la place de la langue et de la religion à l'école primaire tels qu'ils sont perçus par le parti socialiste régional (SFIO) dans l'entre-deux-guerres. Après le retour de l'Alsace à la France en 1918, l'école primaire devient l'emblème des difficultés d'intégration que rencontre la région. Les partis politiques de tout bord engagent alors des débats sur la langue à utiliser à l'école ainsi que sur la place de l'éducation religieuse pour les jeunes Alsaciens. Pour les socialistes alsaciens, la réponse se situe au niveau de la large reforme nécessaire à une réintégration souple à la France. C'est pourquoi le parti préconise la laïcité, qui place l'Alsace sur un pied d'égalité avec le reste de la France, et le bilinguisme, qui contribue à la pérennité d'une culture alsacienne régionale. A travers leur participation à la politique de l'enseignement primaire, la SFIO alsacienne souligne les différentes variétés de républicanisme populaire dans la France de l'entre-deux-guerres.
A Mononuclear Peracetatoiron(III) Complex: Structural and Spectroscopic Characterization, and Oxidation Reactivity
Authors: Zhang Xi , Furutachi Hideki , Tojo Tomonori , Tsugawa Tomohiro , Fujinami Shuhei , Sakurai Takeshi , Suzuki Masatatsu 
Published: April 2011

Abstract
A mononuclear peracetatoiron(III) complex [Fe(6Me2-BPP)(CH3C(O)O2)]+ (2) with a tripodal ligand (6Me2-BPP) was prepared in the reaction of an iron(II) complex [Fe(6Me2-BPP)(H2O)]+ (1) with peracetic acid. 2 is the first example of a structurally and spectroscopically well-defined non-heme type peracetatoiron(III) complex and has modest oxidation ability toward triphenyl phosphine, some olefins, and the tertiary C–H bond of adamantane.
Asymmetric Vinylogous Michael Reaction of α,β-Unsaturated Aldehyde with Buteno-4-lactone
Authors: Luo Xiaoyan , Zhou Zhiqiang , Yu Feng , Li Xin , Liang Xinmiao , Ye Jinxing 
Published: April 2011

Abstract
The asymmetric vinylogous Michael reactions of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes with γ-butenolide(buteno-4-lactone) were efficiently catalyzed by the Jørgensen–Hayashi catalyst and LiOAc. The desired products were obtained in satisfactory yields with excellent enantioselectivities and moderate diastereoselectivities.
Rapid Electroformation of Giant Vesicles
Authors: Okumura Yukihisa , Urita Koji 
Published: April 2011

Abstract
With a small amount of an electrolyte, electroformation of giant vesicles (GVs) proceeded faster than in pure water. In 50 µM neutral phosphate buffer, a GV larger than 50 µm formed in 100 s. The time required for the completion was 5–10 min while electroformation in pure water usually takes 90–120 min. The rapid formation was observed with various electrolytes but only of appropriate concentration (for phosphate buffer, 40–200 µM) and not with a nonelectrolyte such as glucose.
Facile Evaluation of Interactions between Carbon Nanotubes and Phthalocyanines Using Silica Spheres Coated with Ultrathin-layers of Single-walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Yoo JongTae , Fujigaya Tsuyohiko , Nakashima Naotoshi 
Published: April 2011

Abstract
A simple and versatile method to evaluate the interactions between four different phthalocyanine dyes and carbon nanotube surfaces using silica spheres coated with ultrathin-layers of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) is described. The well-isolated SWNTs immobilized on the silica spheres acted as effective adsorption sites for the dye molecules, and the interactions between them were evaluated by measuring the absorbance change in the supernatant solutions after simple mixing.
High-yield Synthesis of Boron Nitride Nanotubes by Annealing Fe3BO6
Authors: Li Jie , Zhang Laiping , Gu Yunle , Qian Qiongli , Wang Jilin , Zhao Guowei , Pan Xinye 
Published: April 2011

Abstract
Boron nitride (BN) nanotubes were obtained in high yield via chemical vapor deposition by annealing Fe3BO6 under NH3 atmosphere at 1100 °C. The XRD and FTIR spectra indicate the products are high pure hexagonal phase BN. SEM, TEM, and HRTEM were used for observing the morphology of the products. The possible chemical reactions and growth mechanism are also proposed.
Laboratory Medicine Best Practices: Systematic Evidence Review and Evaluation Methods for Quality Improvement
Authors: Christenson Robert H , Snyder Susan R , Shaw Colleen S , Derzon James H , Black Robert S , Mass Diana , Epner Paul , Favoretto Alessandra M , Liebow Edward B 
Published: April 2011

OBJECTIVE
To develop methods for systematically reviewing evidence for identifying effective laboratory medicine (LM) practices associated with improved healthcare quality outcomes.

RELEVANCE
Although many evidence-evaluation systems have been developed, none are designed to include and rate healthcare quality improvement studies to identify evidence-based practices that improve patient safety and LM quality.

METHODS
Validated evidence-based medicine methods established by governmental agencies, the Guide to Community Preventive Services, and others were adapted for the LM field. Key methods modifications included (a) inclusion of quality improvement study designs; (b) mechanisms for inclusion of unpublished evidence, (c) combining of individual ratings of study quality, effect size, and relevance of outcome measures to evaluate consistency of practice evidence; and (d) deriving an overall strength rating to support evidence-based best practice recommendations. The methods follow the process steps of: ask; acquire; appraise; analyze; apply; and assess. Expert panels used the systematic evidence review results on practice effectiveness for improving healthcare quality outcomes consistent with the Institute of Medicine's healthcare quality aims (safe, timely, effective, equitable, efficient, and patient-centered).

CONCLUSIONS
Adapting and developing methods from validated systems and applying them to systematically review and evaluate practices in LM by using published and unpublished studies is feasible. With these methods, evidence from quality improvement studies can be systematically synthesized and summarized to identify effective LM practices. Practical and scientifically validated demonstration of a positive impact on outcomes ensures that practitioners, policy makers, and decision makers at all levels have the evidence needed for improving healthcare quality and public health.