bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gene Inactivation of Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 Reduces Atherosclerosis in Mice
Authors: Denis Maxime , Marcinkiewicz Jadwiga , Zaid Ahmed , Gauthier Dany , Poirier Steve , Lazure Claude , Seidah Nabil G. , Prat Annik 
Published: January 2012

Background—
The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) promotes independently of its enzymatic activity the degradation of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor. PCSK9 gain of function in humans leads to autosomal dominant hypercholesterolemia, whereas the absence of functional PCSK9 results in ≈7-fold lower levels of LDL cholesterol. This suggests that lowering PCSK9 may protect against atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—
We investigated the role of PCSK9 in atherosclerosis in C57BL/6 wild-type (WT), apolipoprotein E–deficient, and LDL receptor–deficient mouse models. Circulating cholesterol levels, fast protein liquid chromatography profiles, aortic cholesteryl esters (CE), and plaque sizes were determined. Intima-media thicknesses were measured by ultrasound biomicroscopy. First, mice expressing null (knockout [KO]), normal (WT), or high (transgenic [Tg]) levels of PCSK9 were fed a 12-month Western diet. KO mice accumulated 4-fold less aortic CE than WT mice, whereas Tg mice exhibited high CE and severe aortic lesions. Next we generated apolipoprotein E–deficient mice, known to spontaneously develop lesions, that expressed null (KO/e), normal (WT/e), or high (Tg/e) levels of PCSK9. After a 6-month regular diet, KO/e mice showed a 39% reduction compared with WT/e mice in aortic CE accumulation, whereas Tg/e mice showed a 137% increase. Finally, LDL receptor–deficient mice expressing no (KO/L), normal (WT/L), or high (Tg/L) levels of PCSK9 were fed a Western diet for 3 months. KO/L and Tg/L mice exhibited levels of plasma cholesterol and CE accumulation similar to those of WT/L mice, suggesting that PCSK9 modulates atherosclerosis mainly via the LDL receptor.

Conclusions—
Altogether, our results show a direct relationship between PCSK9 and atherosclerosis. PCSK9 overexpression is proatherogenic, whereas its absence is protective.
Eddy Diffusivity/Mass Flux and Shallow Cumulus Boundary Layer: An Updraft PDF Multiple Mass Flux Scheme
Authors: Sušelj Kay , Teixeira João , Matheou Georgios 
Published: January 2012

Abstract
In this study, the eddy diffusivity/mass flux (EDMF) approach is used to combine parameterizations of nonprecipitating moist convection and boundary layer turbulence. The novel aspect of this EDMF version is the use of a probability density function (PDF) to describe the moist updraft characteristics. A single bulk dry updraft is initialized at the surface and integrated vertically. At each model level, the possibility of condensation within the updraft is considered based on the PDF of updraft moist conserved variables. If the updraft partially condenses, it is split into moist and dry updrafts, which are henceforth integrated separately. The procedure is repeated at each of the model levels above. The single bulk updraft ends up branching into numerous moist and dry updrafts. With this new approach, the need to define a cloud-base closure is circumvented. This new version of EDMF is implemented in a single-column model (SCM) and evaluated using large-eddy simulation (LES) results for the Barbados Oceanographic and Meteorological Experiment (BOMEX) representing steady-state convection over ocean and the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) case representing time-varying convection over land. The new EDMF scheme is able to represent the properties of shallow cumulus and turbulent fluxes in cumulus-topped boundary layers realistically. The parameterized updraft properties partly account for the behavior of the tail of the PDF of moist conserved variables. It is shown that the scheme is not particularly sensitive to the vertical resolution of the SCM or the main model parameters.
The experiences of professional hospice workers attending creative arts workshops in Gauteng
Authors: van Westrhenena Nadine , Fritz Elzette 
Published: January 2012

Object: This article explores the experiences of professional hospice workers using a creative process for debriefing them in order to facilitate the expression and communication of complex thoughts and feelings. The creative arts workshops were developed with the understanding in mind that caring for terminally ill patients can be challenging and stressful and professional hospice workers are subsequently at risk of developing compassion fatigue. The workshops focussed on skills transfers as well as self-healing by experiencing and teaching a diverse range of creative arts like music, drama, art, touch therapy, storytelling and movement. Design: Case study design. Setting: Gauteng, South Africa. Methods: Data collection included individual interviews with 19 trainees at nine different hospices, focus group interviews, observations during the workshops as well as a researcher journal. Themes were generated through thematic analysis to describe the experiences of the caregivers. Results: We found that the expressive arts facilitated communication and self-care and improved the wellbeing of the professional hospice workers. Conclusion: These findings add to understanding of the healing effects of the creative arts and especially the benefits in the hospice setting.
Transoral Robotic Glossectomy for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea‐Hypopnea Syndrome
Authors: Friedman Michael , Hamilton Craig , Samuelson Christian G. , Kelley Kanwar , Taylor David , Pearson‐Chauhan Kristine , Maley Alexander , Taylor Renwick , Venkatesan T. K. 
Published: January 2012

ObjectiveIn previous reports of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), patients underwent routine tracheotomy. We aim to assess the feasibility of performing robotically assisted partial glossectomy without tracheotomy and to assess efficacy by comparing OSAHS outcomes with those of established techniques.Study DesignHistorical cohort study with planned data collection.SettingTertiary care center.Subjects and MethodsForty consecutive patients underwent TORS for OSAHS between October 2010 and June 2011 and were followed up with regard to complications, morbidity, and subjective and objective outcomes. Data from 27 of these patients who underwent concomitant z‐palatoplasty with 6‐month follow‐up were compared with those of 2 matched cohorts of patients, who underwent either radiofrequency (radiofrequency base‐of‐tongue reduction [RFBOT]) or coblation (submucosal minimally invasive lingual excision [SMILE]) reduction of the tongue base and z‐palatoplasty.ResultsNo major bleeding or airway complications were observed. Postoperative pain and length of admission were similar between groups. All groups saw Epworth score and snore score improvement. Patients undergoing robot‐assisted surgery took longer than their SMILE and RFBOT counterparts to tolerate normal diet and longer than RFBOT patients to resume normal activity. Apnea hypopnea index (AHI) reduction averaged 60.5% ± 24.9% for TORS versus 37.0% ± 51.6% (P =. 042) and 32.0% ± 43.3% (P =. 012) for SMILE and RFBOT, respectively. Only the robotic group achieved statistically significant improvement in minimum oxygen saturation. Surgical cure rate for TORS (66.7%) was significant compared with RFBOT (20.8%, P =. 001) but not compared with SMILE (45.5%, P =. 135).ConclusionRobotically assisted partial glossectomy feasibly can be performed without the need for tracheotomy. This technique resulted in greater AHI reduction but increased morbidity compared with the other techniques studied.
Postural Control in Older Patients with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Authors: Kasse Cristiane Akemi , Santana Graziela Gaspar , Branco‐Barreiro Fátima Cristina Alves , Scharlach Renata Coelho , Gazzola Juliana Maria , Ganança Fernando Freitas , Doná Flávia 
Published: January 2012

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effectiveness of a canalith‐repositioning procedure in postural control of older patients with idiopathic benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).Study DesignProspective clinical trial.SettingA tertiary referral center.MethodsA 9‐month follow‐up survey with a prospective design was conducted among 33 older patients with BPPV. Patients underwent static posturography (Balance Rehabilitation Unit [BRU]) and were administered the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) before and after the maneuver. After the treatment, they were compared with 33 healthy older subjects. The posturography parameters were the limit of stability (LOS), the center of body‐pressure area (COP), and the velocity of oscillation (VOS) under conditions of visual, somatosensory, and visual‐vestibular conflict.ResultsOne canalith‐repositioning procedure relieved most patients’ complaints (54.5%), and 100% were relieved with 1 to 3 maneuvers. Total DHI score and all subscales improved after treatment (P <. 01). The LOS values pretreatment (mean [SD] 134.27 [55.32] cm2) and posttreatment (181.03 [47.79] cm2) were significantly different (P <. 01). Comparative analysis of COP values showed a relevant statistical difference in 8 of 10 postmaneuver conditions (P <. 01). The postmaneuver VOS showed a significant difference under 7 conflict conditions. There were no differences between the healthy older subjects and treated patients for all VOS values under all conditions and for COP values under 9 conditions.ConclusionThe canalith‐repositioning procedure promotes remission of symptoms, an increase in LOS, and improvement in postural control under conditions of somatosensory and visual conflict and visual‐vestibular interaction.
A systematic review of case-mix adjustment models for stroke
Authors: Teale Elizabeth A , Forster Anne , Munyombwe Theresa , Young John B 
Published: January 2012

Objective: To identify any externally validated prognostic model for predicting outcome in unselected populations following acute stroke comprising variables feasible for collection in routine care. Data sources: Searches were run in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycInfo, AMED and ISI Web of Science with no limits on publication date or language. Review methods: Any study describing the development or external validation of a discernible prognostic model to predict any valid outcome following acute stroke was included. Papers were retained if they met pre-specified inclusion criteria identified from previous reviews and pertinent discussion papers. Data extraction focused on methodological quality of model development, generalizability and feasibility of variable collection. Model performance was examined through consideration of external validation studies. Results: Seventeen externally validated models were identified from 43 papers fulfilling inclusion criteria. Quality of studies describing model development was variable and model performance in external validation studies was generally poor. Models were generally constructed through secondary use of randomized trial or stroke database data. Prognostic variables broadly encompassed markers of stroke severity, pre-stroke function and comorbidities. One model that fulfilled the review criteria and had extensive external validation in a range of post-stroke populations was identified (the Six Simple Variables model). Conclusion: The Six Simple Variables model performed well in six external validation studies, although prediction of outcome in patients with milder strokes was less reliable. Other models identified in this review have been developed using robust methodology but comprise more complex clinical variables which may limit their utility in routine stroke care.
Resource utilization and cost analyses of home-based palliative care service provision: The Niagara West End-of-Life Shared-Care Project
Authors: Klinger Christopher A , Howell Doris , Marshall Denise , Zakus David , Brazil Kevin , Deber Raisa B 
Published: January 2012

Background: Increasing emphasis is being placed on the economics of health care service delivery – including home-based palliative care. Aim: This paper analyzes resource utilization and costs of a shared-care demonstration project in rural Ontario (Canada) from the public health care system’s perspective. Design: To provide enhanced end-of-life care, the shared-care approach ensured exchange of expertise and knowledge and coordination of services in line with the understood goals of care. Resource utilization and costs were tracked over the 15 month study period from January 2005 to March 2006. Results: Of the 95 study participants (average age 71 years), 83 had a cancer diagnosis (87%); the non-cancer diagnoses (12 patients, 13%) included mainly advanced heart diseases and COPD. Community Care Access Centre and Enhanced Palliative Care Team-based homemaking and specialized nursing services were the most frequented offerings, followed by equipment/transportation services and palliative care consults for pain and symptom management. Total costs for all patient-related services (in 2007 $CAN) were $1,625,658.07 – or $17,112.19 per patient/$117.95 per patient day. Conclusion: While higher than expenditures previously reported for a cancer-only population in an urban Ontario setting, the costs were still within the parameters of the US Medicare Hospice Benefits, on a par with the per diem funding assigned for long-term care homes and lower than both average alternate level of care and hospital costs within the Province of Ontario. The study results may assist service planners in the appropriate allocation of resources and service packaging to meet the complex needs of palliative care populations.
Mechanical and thermal characterization of carbon nanofiber reinforced low-density polyethylene composites
Authors: Khattab Ahmed , Liu Chunzai , Chirdon William , Hebert Camille 
Published: January 2012

The mechanical, thermal, and fracture morphological characterization of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composites reinforced with vapor-grown carbon nanofibers (VGCNFs) is presented in this article. VGCNF/LDPE composites with different VGCNF weight percentages were prepared by single-screw extrusion followed by injection molding. Scanning electron microscopy showed that VGCNFs were predominantly dispersed uniformly within the LDPE matrix. Differential scanning calorimetry has shown that the VGCNF/LDPE composites crystallized at higher temperatures than pure LDPE polymer. Tensile testing has shown that strength and Young’s modulus of VGCNF/LDPE composites were improved by 15% and 44%, respectively, when the VGCNF loading reached 3 wt%.
Pesticide poisonings in South Korea
Authors: Kim HJ , Cha ES , Ko Y , Kim J , Kim SD , Lee WJ 
Published: January 2012

Objectives: Pesticide poisoning stands as a major public health issue worldwide. The objective of this study was to examine the epidemiologic characteristics of pesticide-related hospitalizations in South Korea. Methods: Data from the Korea National Hospital Discharge Survey were analyzed to describe the epidemiologic characteristics of pesticide poisoning among hospitalized patients from 2004 through 2006. Pesticide-related hospitalizations were identified using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes. National estimates of pesticide-related hospitalizations were calculated using sampling weights for number of hospitalizations. Results: A total of 25,982 pesticide-related hospitalizations were estimated during the years 2004–2006, yielding an average annual pesticide-related hospitalization rate of 17.8 per 100,000 population in South Korea. Age-specific rates for pesticide-related hospitalization increased with age, with the highest rate noted among those aged 70 or above. The majority of pesticide-related hospitalization was cases of intentional poisoning in rural areas. Seasonal variation in the rate was observed, with summer being the highest among both men and women. Conclusions: Pesticide-related hospitalization is prevalent and demonstrates demographic and seasonal and regional variations. More effective strategies to reduce pesticide-related hospitalizations are required in South Korea.
Studies on the protective effect of flaxseed oil on cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Naqshbandi A , Khan W , Rizwan S , Khan F 
Published: January 2012

Cisplatin (CP) is known as one of the most potent chemotherapeutic antitumor drugs. The tissue-specific toxicity of CP in the kidneys is well documented. However, at higher doses less common toxic effects such as hepatotoxicity may arise. Since CP remains one of the most effective antineoplastic drug used in chemotherapy, strategies to protect tissues against CP toxicity are of clinical interest. Recently, ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) from certain plants/seeds notably flaxseed have shown numerous health benefits. In view of this, the present study investigates the protective effect of flaxseed oil (FXO) on CP-induced damage in liver. Rats were pre-fed normal diet and the diet rich in FXO for 10 days and then a single dose of CP (6 mg/kg body weight) was administered intraperitoneally while still on diet. Serum/urine parameters, enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism and oxidative stress were analyzed. CP caused perturbation of the antioxidant defense as reflected by the decrease in the activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. Further the activities of various enzymes involved in glycolysis, tricarboxylic acid cycle, gluconeogenesis and hexose monophosphate shunt pathways were determined and were found to be differentially altered by CP treatment. However, these alterations were ameliorated in CP-treated rats fed on FXO. Present results show that dietary supplementation of FXO in CP-treated rats ameliorated CP-induced hepatotoxic and other deleterious effects due to its intrinsic biochemical/antioxidant properties.
Analysis of Cognitive Attitudes to Commercial Films on Basis of Eye Tracking Data
Authors: Aoki Hirotaka , Itoh Kenji 
Published: January 2012

The present paper proposes a method for analyzing viewers' cognitive attitudes to commercial films (CF) on TV based on the eye-movement recording (EMR) technique and scenario description of a CF. In this method, a scenario is described in a time-line transition of displaying CF ingredients in a scene. CF ingredients are classified into three groups in terms of involvement of advertised claims: direct claimed items, indirect claimed items and no-claim involved items. This classification allows us not only to provide with a framework for analyzing EMR data but also to estimate claimed quantity containing a CF. A viewer's EMR data during watching a CF is transcribed according to this scenario description scheme. His/her cognitive attitudes to a particular CF are analyzed mainly based on two attitudinal measurements that can be generated by the EMR transcription combined with the scenario description. One measurement, effective gaze ratio, is relating to how intensively a viewer watches a CF. The other measurement, claim perception ratio, is an index for estimating how well a viewer acquires claims or messages regarding an advertised product, service or organization from the commercial film. A series of experiments were carried out with four subjects to obtain their eye-movement data using an ASL 4000 tracking system. Each subject performed six CF-watching sessions each of which was conducted on a different day using the same sixteen commercial films. The proposed method was applied to the experimental data to analyze the viewer's cognitive patterns to CF's. The obtained cognitive attitudes are discussed from relations between their individual attributes such as watching style of CF's and daily TV watching hours. Based on these results, we mentioned some implications on design parameters of CF's such as frequency of changing scene, and effects of celebrity.
Ergonomic Self Reliance “A Structured Approach”
Authors: Piotrowski Roman 
Published: January 2012

Ergonomics in industry takes many forms and a variety of techniques are applied for the data collection of ergonomic concerns. At the Rover Group (BMW) Swindon site, chosen shop floor associates are trained in the principles of ergonomics. They lead all ergonomic assessments with the full support of the local production manager known as the ABA plan owner. This Ergonomic “facilitator” uses an ergonomic assessment sheet known Associate job Analysis A.B.A. developed by BMW AG Germany. This takes the form of simple charts to store issues categorised as Red Amber or Green (RAG) concerns. It can effectively deal with local and departmental issues using an ergonomic approach. The author, who is the site ergonomist, will share results of the activities within their environment and explain the principles of Ergonomic Self-Reliance and the infrastructure that supports it.
Security Education to Gardeners' Tasks
Authors: Goebel Marilia 
Published: January 2012

The development of agriculture was essential to the process of keeping human beings on earth. In order to increase the productivity men developed a number of techniques for vegetal culture. Nowadays most activities are highly technical, but some are still done “like craft work” for example the horticulture. The most part of this work claim a big effort by the periodical repetition of the movement, causing a man posture damage. The man posture damage study is fundamental to promote a better life condition for people that depend of these activities and to increase the worker safety. After the analysis of the farmer's work, we have identified the need of other studies to support the changes in the organisation of the farmer's tasks. Due to the farmer's posture in the tasks realization, ergonomic problems can occur and useful time of work can be reduced. The harmful posture correction can be gotten by means of alternatives that minimize efforts and provide farmers better conditions of live and work. An educational illustrated folder was made in order to promote the worker safety. The objective is prevent common accidents by means of a general orientation. Also is been made an equipment to sow vegetables in way to facilitate farmer's work.
To Be or Not to Be? Human Factors of the Chernobyl NPP Closing down
Authors: Zhuravlyov Gennady E. 
Published: January 2012

The destroyed Unit #4 is not a save object The remains of the nuclear fuel are not in a stable state in the sense both of nuclear processes and space distribution. The probability of a new nuclear chain reaction is not equal to zero. Many radioactive isotopes have half lives of 3000 years and more. Our descendants ought to deal with aftermath of the Chernobyl tragedy for centuries ahead. The current report is not aimed to solve complicated technical problems of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. Author intends to show urgent necessity of the profound analysis of the Human Factors (macroergonomic) problems while making final decisions regarding both the ChNPP and the Shelter.