bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Myocardial remodelling induced by repeated low doses of isoproterenol
Authors: Mikušová Andrea , Kráľová Eva , Tylková Lucia , Novotová Marta , Stankovičová Tatiana 
Published: September 2009

In the present work, the effect of isoproterenol on the electrical properties of the rat heart and on the cytoarchitecture of the surviving cardiomyocytes was studied. Myocardial remodelling was induced by the daily administration of 5 mg/kg isoproterenol (Iso) for 7 days. Administration resulted in a significant increase (52%) in the ratio of left ventricular weight to body weight. ECG voltage criteria confirmed the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy. QT interval prolongation by 23% and 58% was found in Iso rats and in the corresponding isolated hearts, respectively. Spontaneously beating Iso hearts had a higher incidence of dysrhythmias. The surviving cardiomyocytes showed an irregular shape with cytoplasmic processes rich in ribosomes and rough endoplasmic reticulum. In these regions, myofibril disorganization and mitochondrial fission were observed. A greatly increased incidence of caveolae was seen in the plasma membrane and in the mouth of t-tubules. The membranes of t-tubules showed vesiculation, especially near the dyads. Repeated administration of isoproterenol led to hypertrophy, characterized by the existence of myocytes with simultaneous signs of both mature and postnatally developing cardiomyocytes. Structural microheterogeneities at the level of individual cells may represent one of the factors leading to electrical imbalance in the myocardial tissue remodelled by isoproterenol.
Systemic spread of measles virus: Overcoming the epithelial and endothelial barriers
Authors: Ludlow Martin , Allen Ingrid , Schneider-Schaulies Jürgen 
Published: October 2009

SummaryAs the major entry receptor, signalling lymphocytic activation molecule (SLAM, CD150) essentially determines the tropism of measles virus (MV) for immune cells. This receptor is of considerable importance for the induction of immunomodulation and -suppression, and for the systemic spread of MV to organs including secondary lymphoid tissues, the skin, the respiratory tract, and the brain predominantly via infected cells of the immune system. But how does the virus cross the epithelial barrier during initiation of the infection, the blood organ barriers formed by endothelial cells, and the epithelial barrier from within, when virus will be released from the host? Additional unknown receptor(s) on CD150-negative epithelial and endothelial cells have been postulated. However, it has also been postulated (and demonstrated in macaques) that the initial infection is independent from usage of this receptor, and that the first target cells appear to be CD150-positive cells in the epithelium. For later stages of the infection, for virus release from the host, it is claimed that this unknown receptor on epithelial cells is required for crossing the barrier from within. The endothelial cell barrier must be crossed from the apical (luminal) to the basolateral (abluminal) side to carry the infection to organs and the skin. However, infected leukocytes are impaired in several functions including transmigration through endothelial cells. The infection may spread via cell contact-mediated infection of endothelial cells and basolateral virus release, or via migration of infected leukocytes.
Predictability of the Madden–Julian Oscillation Estimated Using Observational Data
Authors: Ding Ruiqiang , Li Jianping , Seo Kyong-Hwan 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
Existing numerical models produce large error in simulating the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO), thereby underestimating its predictability. In this paper, the predictability limit of the MJO is determined by the nonlinear local Lyapunov exponent approach, which provides an estimate of atmospheric predictability based on the observational data. The results show that the predictability limit of the MJO obtained from the bandpass-filtered (30–80 days) outgoing longwave radiation and wind fields, which serves as an empirical estimate of the theoretical potential predictability of the MJO, can exceed 5 weeks, which is well above the 1-week predictability of background noise caused by bandpass filtering. In contrast, a real-time analysis of MJO predictability using the real-time multivariate MJO (RMM) index, as introduced by Wheeler and Hendon, reveals a predictability limit of about 3 weeks. The findings reported here raise the possibility of obtaining a higher predictability limit in real-time prediction by improving the RMM index or by introducing a better method of extracting intraseasonal signals.
Fog Prediction from a Multimodel Mesoscale Ensemble Prediction System
Authors: Zhou Binbin , Du Jun 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
A new multivariable-based diagnostic fog-forecasting method has been developed at NCEP. The selection of these variables, their thresholds, and the influences on fog forecasting are discussed. With the inclusion of the algorithm in the model postprocessor, the fog forecast can now be provided centrally as direct NWP model guidance. The method can be easily adapted to other NWP models. Currently, knowledge of how well fog forecasts based on operational NWP models perform is lacking. To verify the new method and assess fog forecast skill, as well as to account for forecast uncertainty, this fog-forecasting algorithm is applied to a multimodel-based Mesoscale Ensemble Prediction System (MEPS). MEPS consists of 10 members using two regional models [the NCEP Nonhydrostatic Mesoscale Model (NMM) version of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model and the NCAR Advanced Research version of WRF (ARW)] with 15-km horizontal resolution. Each model has five members (one control and four perturbed members) using the breeding technique to perturb the initial conditions and was run once per day out to 36 h over eastern China for seven months (February–September 2008). Both deterministic and probabilistic forecasts were produced based on individual members, a one-model ensemble, and two-model ensembles. A case study and statistical verification, using both deterministic and probabilistic measuring scores, were performed against fog observations from 13 cities in eastern China. The verification was focused on the 12- and 36-h forecasts.
By applying the various approaches, including the new fog detection scheme, ensemble technique, multimodel approach, and the increase in ensemble size, the fog forecast accuracy was steadily and dramatically improved in each of the approaches: from basically no skill at all [equitable threat score (ETS) = 0.063] to a skill level equivalent to that of warm-season precipitation forecasts of the current NWP models (0.334). Specifically, 1) the multivariable-based fog diagnostic method has a much higher detection capability than the liquid water content (LWC)-only based approach. Reasons why the multivariable approach works better than the LWC-only method were also illustrated. 2) The ensemble-based forecasts are, in general, superior to a single control forecast measured both deterministically and probabilistically. The case study also demonstrates that the ensemble approach could provide more societal value than a single forecast to end users, especially for low-probability significant events like fog. Deterministically, a forecast close to the ensemble median is particularly helpful. 3) The reliability of probabilistic forecasts can be effectively improved by using a multimodel ensemble instead of a single-model ensemble. For a small ensemble such as the one in this study, the increase in ensemble size is also important in improving probabilistic forecasts, although this effect is expected to decrease with the increase in ensemble size.
‘Eating beans … that is a “no-no” for our times’: Young Cypriots’ consumer meanings of ‘healthy’ and ‘fast’ food
Authors: Ioannou Soula 
Published: September 2009

Objective To investigate in-depth beliefs and experiences relating to the choice of fast and/or healthy foods from a group of young people living in Cyprus. Design Data for the study were generated from one-to-one qualitative interviews which encouraged the participants to articulate the symbolic value of eating choices in their day-to-day experiences. Participants Twenty five young people (12 male, 13 female) aged between 15 and 17 years from diverse socio-economic backgrounds living in different parts of the urban area of Nicosia were recruited using a snowballing technique. Analysis The analysis focused on the division between ‘healthy’ and ‘fast’ foods. Results This study discloses the way that a group of young Cypriots make sense of, and articulate, ‘fast’ and ‘healthy’ foods as consumer eating choices. The analysis demonstrates how ‘fast’ and ‘healthy’ eating choices entail a symbolic value which the participants claimed had significance and meaning in young people’s lifestyles. Eating fast foods was primarily seen as a medium for expressing a youthful self and/or lifestyle image, while choosing healthy food was viewed as being in opposition to the normal image of being young. Conclusions and implications This article challenges the one-dimensional approach of the ‘nutrition value of foods’ approach for convincing young people to choose healthy foods and strongly suggests the need to provide them with opportunities to become aware of and critical about the symbolic value of eating choices.
An evaluation of the Local Exercise Action Pilots and impact on moderate physical activity
Authors: Pringle Andy , Gilson Nick , McKenna Jim , Cooke Carlton 
Published: September 2009

Objective Identifying community physical activity interventions that facilitate increases in moderate physical activity (MPA) is important in meeting targets set in government health policy. This study evaluated community interventions that aimed to increase levels of MPA. Intervention themes included exercise referral, classes and groups, peermentoring, motivational interviewing, campaigns and directories, outdoor activity and training physical activity leaders. Design Longitudinal, pre-intervention and intervention assessments occurred between 2004 and 2006. Setting Recruitment of 10,433 people from ten sites located in areas of high health need across England. Method Demographic data were collected by questionnaire, with seven-day, population-specific self-reports assessing pre-intervention and intervention MPA. Using guidelines for young people and adults, MPA MET-minutes/week were used to assign participants to four MPA categories (sedentary, lightly, moderately and highly active) at pre-intervention and intervention phases. Cross-tabulation established movement between three change categories (reversal, stability and progression). Results From nine sites, 5324 people engaged in the evaluation, and a sub-sample of 998 provided demographic and 1022 self-report baseline and intervention data (i.e. completers) for a typical week’s physical activity participation. Of completers who were sedentary or lightly active at pre-intervention, 58.5 per cent achieved recommended physical activity guidelines. 80.9 per cent who were sedentary at pre-intervention reported as lightly, moderately or highly active at intervention. Conclusions Completers increased overall activity levels, including those sedentary and lightly active at pre-intervention who increased levels to recommended guidelines.
Exploring pre-operational and concrete operational children’s thinking on nutrition: A case study
Authors: Brouse Corey H , Chow Tracy H F 
Published: September 2009

Objective In this exploratory study, we observed the process in which children make food choices from a cognitive development perspective and the implications that these choices have on the areas of cognitive development and health and nutrition education. Design This was a cross-sectional case study that involved an in-depth examination of the food choice process and knowledge of a child in the pre-operations stage and a child in the concrete operations stage as defined by Piaget. Setting This study took place in New York City. Methods The five general questions on health and nutrition which were posed to each child were: Why do we need to eat? What makes some foods healthy or unhealthy? Can some foods be healthy and unhealthy at the same time? Where do certain foods come from? Why is it important to eat in moderation? The responses to these questions were analyzed from both cognitive and health education perspectives. In addition to being asked questions about nutrition, each in-depth interview included an activity in which the children were given a stack of pictures of foods and were asked to classify them as being healthy or unhealthy. Results Thelevelofknowledgeandthoughtprocessaboutfoodofachild in the pre-operations stage and a child in the concrete operations stage exhibit several significant differences that are characteristic of Piaget’s stages of cognitive development. Specifically, the depth of knowledge, the use of symbolic thinking, and the abilities to think bi-directionally and systematically, and to view issues from multiple perspectives vary between the two stages. Conclusion Many of the predictions about how the children would react to certain questions given their age appear to be consistent with the early writings of Piaget. The main implications of these findings could help health educators who focus on nutrition to tailor their educational programmes according to the cognitive abilities defined by Piaget, and reinforced by our findings.
Effect of Warm-Supplementing Kidney Yang (WSKY) added to risperidone on quality of life in patients with schizophrenia: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chen Zhen-hua , Wang Gao-hua , Wang Xiao-ping , Huo Yun-xiang , Yang Ming-hua , Li Li , Mei Hong-bing 
Published: September 2009

Objective: To evaluate the quality of life, efficacy and safety of Warm-Supplementing Kidney Yang (WSKY) added to risperidone in patients with schizophrenia. Design: A randomized controlled trial. Setting: The outpatient and inpatient departments of three hospitals. Subjects: One hundred and twenty patients with clinically diagnosed schizophrenia with predominantly negative symptoms were included in the study. Intervention: All 120 patients were randomly assigned to double-blind treatment with WSKY group (n = 60) or placebo group (n = 60) added to risperidone for eight weeks. Main measure: The efficacy measures included the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-100), the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), the Social Disability Screening Schedule and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. Safety and tolerability were assessed throughout the trial. Results: The scores of quality of life in the WSKY group showed statistically significant improvement at the end-point of treatment compared with those in the placebo group (WSKY, increasing 40.5 (29.4); placebo, increasing 14.4 (27.1); F =24.900, P<0.001), while the scores of social function and depression symptoms also showed statistically significant improvement. The response rates for the WHOQOL-100 total scores were 50.0% for the WSKY group versus 31.7% for placebo group (χ 2 = 4.172, P=0.041). There were no significant differences in the safety/tolerability measures between the WSKY group and the placebo group during treatment. Conclusions: The results suggest that WSKY added to risperidone significantly improved the quality of life, social function, depression symptom compared with placebo added to risperidone.
An evaluation of self-administration of auditory cueing to improve gait in people with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Bryant MS , Rintala DH , Lai EC , Protas EJ 
Published: September 2009

Objective: To evaluate a self-administration of auditory cueing on gait difficulties in people with Parkinson’s disease over a one-week period. Design: Single group pre and post test. Setting: Research lab, community. Participants: Twenty-one individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Interventions: Self-application of an auditory pacer set at a rate 25% faster than preferred cadence. Main outcome measures: Self-selected gait speed, cadence, stride length, and double support time with and without the pacer at the initial visit and after one week of pacer use. Results: During the initial visit, the auditory pacer improved gait speed (79.57 (18.13) cm/s vs. 94.02 (22.61) cm/s, P<0.0005), cadence (102.88 (11.34) step/min vs. 109.22 (10.23) steps/min, P=0.036) and stride length (94.33 (21.31) cm vs. 103.5 (22.65) cm, P =0.012). After one week, preferred gait speed was faster than the initial preferred speed (79.57 (18.13) vs. 95.20 (22.23) cm/s, P<0.0005). Stride length was significantly increased (94.33 (21.31) vs. 107.67 (20.01) cm, P =0.001). Double support time was decreased from 21.73 (5.23) to 18.94 (3.59)% gait cycle, P =0.016. Conclusion: Gait performance in people with Parkinson’s disease improved significantly after walking with the auditory pacer for one week.
The psychometric properties and clinical utility of measures of walking and mobility in neurological conditions: a systematic review
Authors: Tyson Sarah , Connell Louise 
Published: September 2009

Objective: To identify psychometrically robust and clinically feasible measures of walking and mobility in people with neurological conditions Data sources: MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, PEDro and AMED. Review methods: Independent reviewers selected and extracted data from articles that assessed the reliability, validity, sensitivity to change or clinical utility of measures of walking and mobility in adult neurological conditions. Measures with ‘good’ psychometrics and 9/10 clinical utility scores were recommended. Results: Seventeen measures were selected. Of these, the 5-m and 10-m walk tests, six-minute walk test, High Level Mobility Assessment Tool (HiMAT) and the Rivermead Mobility Index (RMI) reached the required standards and are usable in clinical practice. None of the recommended measures assessed wheelchair mobility. The least frequently assessed property was sensitivity to change. Further measures could be recommended if the minimal detectable change were demonstrated. Conclusion: The 5-m, 10-m and six-minute walk test, High Level Mobility Assessment Tool and the Rivermead Mobility Index are psychometrically robust measures of walking and mobility and are feasible for use in clinical practice.
Role of tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 in the mechanism of endorepellin angiostatic activity
Authors: Nyström Alexander , Shaik Zabeena P. , Gullberg Donald , Krieg Thomas , Eckes Beate , Zent Roy , Pozzi Ambra , Iozzo Renato V. 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
Endorepellin, the C-terminal domain of perlecan, is a powerful angiogenesis inhibitor. To dissect the mechanism of endorepellin-mediated endothelial silencing, we used an antibody array against multiple tyrosine kinase receptors. Endorepellin caused a widespread reduction in phosphorylation of key receptors involved in angiogenesis and a concurrent increase in phosphatase activity in endothelial cells and tumor xenografts. These effects were efficiently hampered by function-blocking antibodies against integrin α2β1, the functional endorepellin receptor. The Src homology-2 protein phosphatase-1 (SHP-1) coprecipitated with integrin α2 and was phosphorylated in a dynamic fashion after endorepellin stimulation. Genetic evidence was provided by lack of an endorepellin-evoked phosphatase response in microvascular endothelial cells derived from integrin α2β1−/− mice and by response to endorepellin in cells genetically engineered to express the α2β1 integrin, but not in cells either lacking this receptor or expressing a chimera harboring the integrin α2 ectodomain fused to the α1 intracellular domain. siRNA-mediated knockdown of integrin α2 caused a dose-dependent reduction of SHP-1. Finally, the levels of SHP-1 and its enzymatic activity were substantially reduced in multiple organs from α2β1−/− mice. Our results show that SHP-1 is an essential mediator of endorepellin activity and discover a novel functional interaction between the integrin α2 subunit and SHP-1.
MICA-129 genotype, soluble MICA, and anti-MICA antibodies as biomarkers of chronic graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Boukouaci Wahid , Busson Marc , Peffault de Latour Régis , Rocha Vanderson , Suberbielle Caroline , Bengoufa Djaouida , Dulphy Nicolas , Haas Philippe , Scieux Catherine , Amroun Habiba , Gluckman Eliane , Krishnamoorthy Rajagopal , Toubert Antoine , Charron Dominique , Socié Gérard , Tamouza Ryad 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThe MHC class I–related chain A (MICA) molecules exist as membrane-bound and soluble isoforms and are encoded by a polymorphic gene. Their genetic and phenotype characteristics have been studied in various pathologic settings but not in the context of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Here, we evaluated whether MICA-related features namely MICA-129 gene polymorphism, serum levels of soluble MICA (sMICA) and anti-MICA antibodies (MICA Abs) before and after HSCT could influence the incidence of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) and relapse of their disease in 211 HLA-identical sibling pairs and in a subset of 116 recipients, respectively. Although the MICA-129 val/val genotype and elevated sMICA serum levels after HSCT are independently associated with the incidence of cGVHD (P = .002 and .001) regardless of history of acute GVHD, the presence of MICA Abs before transplantation confers protection against cGVHD (P = .04). There is an inverse relationship between MICA Abs and sMICA, suggesting an antibody-based neutralization of deleterious effects of sMICA. Similarly, these genetic and phenotype characteristics of MICA influence the incidence of relapse. Altogether, these data suggest that the studied MICA genotype and phenotype specificities could be used as relevant biomarkers for cGVHD monitoring.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Chronic NMDA administration to rats increases brain pro-apoptotic factors while decreasing anti-Apoptotic factors and causes cell death
Authors: Kim Hyung-Wook , Chang Yunyoung C , Chen Mei , Rapoport Stanley I , Rao Jagadeesh S 
Published: September 2009

AbstractBackgroundChronicN-Methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) administration to rats is reported to increase arachidonic acid signaling and upregulate neuroinflammatory markers in rat brain. These changes may damage brain cells. In this study, we determined if chronic NMDA administration (25 mg/kg i.p., 21 days) to rats would alter expression of pro- and anti-apoptotic factors in frontal cortex, compared with vehicle control.ResultsUsing real time RT-PCR and Western blotting, chronic NMDA administration was shown to decrease mRNA and protein levels of anti-apoptotic markers Bcl-2 and BDNF, and of their transcription factor phospho-CREB in the cortex. Expression of pro-apoptotic Bax, Bad, and 14-3-3ζ was increased, as well as Fluoro-Jade B (FJB) staining, a marker of neuronal loss.ConclusionThis alteration in the balance between pro- and anti-apoptotic factors by chronic NMDA receptor activation in this animal model may contribute to neuronal loss, and further suggests that the model can be used to examine multiple processes involved in excitotoxicity.