bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients With Permanent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Healey Jeff S. , Hohnloser Stefan H. , Exner Derek V. , Birnie David H. , Parkash Ratika , Connolly Stuart J. , Krahn Andrew D. , Simpson Chris S. , Thibault Bernard , Basta Magdy , Philippon Francois , Dorian Paul , Nair Girish M. , Sivakumaran Soori , Yetisir Elizabeth , Wells George A. , Tang Anthony S.L. 
Published: August 2012

Background—
Cardiac resynchronization (CRT) prolongs survival in patients with systolic heart failure and QRS prolongation. However, most trials excluded patients with permanent atrial fibrillation.

Methods and Results—

The Resynchronization for Ambulatory Heart Failure Trial (RAFT) randomized patients to an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) or ICD+CRT, stratified by the presence of permanent atrial fibrillation. Patients with permanent atrial fibrillation were randomized to CRT-ICD (n=114) or ICD (n=115). Patients receiving a CRT-ICD were similar to those receiving an ICD: age (71.6±7.3 versus 70.4±7.7 years), left ventricular ejection fraction (22.9±5.3% versus 22.3±5.1%), and QRS duration (151.0±23.6 versus 153.4±24.7 ms). There was no difference in the primary outcome of death or heart failure hospitalization between those assigned to CRT-ICD versus ICD (hazard ratio, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.65–1.41;
P
=0.82). Cardiovascular death was similar between treatment arms (hazard ratio, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.55–1.71;
P
=0.91); however, there was a trend for fewer heart failure hospitalizations with CRT-ICD (hazard ratio, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.38–1.01;
P
=0.052). The change in 6-minute hall walk duration between baseline and 12 months was not different between treatment arms (CRT-ICD: 19±84 m versus ICD: 16±76 m;
P
=0.88). Patients treated with CRT-ICD showed a trend for a greater improvement in Minnesota Living with Heart Failure score between baseline and 6 months (CRT-ICD: 41±21 to 31±21; ICD: 33±20 to 28±20;
P
=0.057).

Conclusions—
Patients with permanent atrial fibrillation who are otherwise CRT candidates appear to gain minimal benefit from CRT-ICD compared with a standard ICD.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00251251.
A Novel Sonification Strategy for Auditory Display of Heart Rate and Oxygen Saturation Changes in Clinical Settings
Authors: Janata Petr , Edwards William H. 
Published: August 2012

Objective: The aim of this study was development of a sonification scheme to convey deviations in heart rate and oxygen saturation from a desired target level. Background: Maintaining physiologic parameters, such as oxygen saturation, within desired ranges, is challenging in many clinical situations. High rates of false positive alarms in clinical settings limit the utility of the alarms that trigger when thresholds are exceeded. Auditory displays that consider the semantic connotations of sounds and the processing limitations of human perception and cognition may improve monitoring. Method: Across two experiments, clinical practi-tioners were tested on their ability to (a) discriminate pairs of sounds (two-note discrimination task), (b) infer and discern the intended physiological connotation of each acoustic attribute (name-the-variable task), and (c) categorize the amount of change in an implied physiological variable into three levels of change: none, small, and large (change-magnitude task). Results: Considerable variation in performance was observed across the set of practitioners, ranging from near-perfect performance on all tasks, even with no prior exposure to the stimuli, to failure to reach a target accuracy criterion of 87.5% after ~80 min of training. On average, performance was well above chance on the name-the-variable and change-magnitude tasks during initial exposure and reached criterion within ~20 min of training on each task. Conclusion: The described sonification strategy may effectively communicate information about current heart rate and oxygen saturation status relative to desired target levels. Application: The results can be applied to clinical monitoring settings in which a stream of discrete auditory informational items is indicated.
Synthesis and characterization of cationic surfactants in the preparation of organobentonite and study their effectiveness on the properties of styrene-butadiene rubber/bentonite composites
Authors: Khalaf A. I. , Hegazy M. A. 
Published: August 2012

Two cationic surfactants ( N-isopropyl- N, N-dimethyldodecan-1-aminium bromide (S1) and N-isopropyl- N, N-dimethylhexadecan-1-aminium bromide (S2)) are synthesized. The chemical structure of the synthesized surfactants was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and 1H Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Critical micelle concentration (CMC) of the synthesized cationic surfactants was determined. CMC decreased with increasing alkyl chain length. Organobentonites are prepared using cationic surfactants (S1 and S2) and characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), FTIR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy. Results of XRD, FTIR, SEM and TGA showed that the surfactants were intercalated into the interlamellar space of bentonite. Organobentonites fillers were added to styrene-butadiene rubber and cured by conventional vulcanization system. The filler loading was varied from 0 to 10 parts per hundred parts of rubber (phr). The compounds were characterized with respect to their curing characteristics and mechanical properties. The vulcanization rate and torque value of the organobentonites compounds are sensibly higher than the unmodified bentonite compound.
Contextual Factors and Vocational Interests in South Asian Americans’ Vocational Development
Authors: Kantamneni Neeta , Fouad Nadya A. 
Published: August 2012

Examining vocational interests is a central component of career counseling; yet, little research has investigated structural differences for specific subpopulations or the role of cultural factors on vocational interests. The purpose of this study was to examine the structure of interests, congruence between expressed and measured interests, and the relationship between contextual factors, congruence, and vocational interests for South Asian Americans. Circular unidimensional scaling analyses examined the structural nature of interests for females and males and found a better fit with Holland’s model for South Asian American females when compared to males. Correlation and multiple regression analyses found that contextual variables, such as acculturation, cultural values, and gender did not predict congruence but did predict vocational interest themes. Gender, acculturation, and individualistic and collectivistic cultural values predicted Realistic and Social interests.
A study of the efficacy and safety of switching from oral risperidone to risperidone long-acting injection in older patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Suzuki Hidenobu , Inoue Yuichi , Gen Keishi 
Published: August 2012

Objective We investigated the clinical efficacy and safety of switching to risperidone long-acting injection (RLAI) in older patients with schizophrenia receiving oral risperidone. Methods The subjects were 48 inpatients who had been diagnosed with schizophrenia according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition. Their clinical symptoms were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale and the Clinical Global Impression – Severity of Illness scale, and their safety was assessed using the Drug-Induced Extrapyramidal Symptoms Scale (DIEPSS), body weight, body mass index, and blood biochemistry tests. Results No significant differences in clinical symptom improvement efficacy were seen between the group switched to RLAI and the control group. The mean changes from baseline on the DIEPSS total score and prolactin level were significantly greater in the older group switched to RLAI than in the control group. Furthermore, in older patients, RLAI allowed the dosage of the concomitant medication to be significantly reduced compared with the control group. Conclusion The results of this study suggest that switching older patients from oral risperidone to RLAI may result in superior efficacy and safety, and may also make it possible to reduce the dosage of the concomitant medication.
Clinical and prognostic implications of low or high level of von Willebrand factor in patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia
Authors: Hivert Benedicte , Caron Claudine , Petit Stephanie , Charpy Cecile , Fankam-Siaka Corinne , Lecocq Stephanie , Zawadzki Christophe , Susen Sophie , Rusu Manuela , Duhamel Alain , Tournilhac Olivier , Goudemand Jenny , Morel Pierre 
Published: August 2012

AbstractAcquired von Willebrand syndrome is described in patients with Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM). Assessment of ristocetin cofactor activity (VWF:RCo) and von Willebrand factor (VWF) antigen (VWF:Ag) in 72 consecutive patients with WM showed a negative relation between VWF levels < 130 U/dL and both monoclonal immunoglobulin M concentration (mIgMC) and viscosity. Ten patients with VWF:RCo < 50 U/dL (< 40 for patients with blood group O) fulfilled the acquired von Willebrand syndrome criteria. They had higher mIgMC and viscosity. Reduction in mIgMC was associated with increase in VWF levels. The low VWF:RCo/VWF:Ag ratio suggested that high viscosity might be associated with increased shear force and cleavage of multimers. Surprisingly, 43 patients (59%) presented with high VWF:Ag (> 110 U/dL). They had higher bone marrow microvessel density and vascular endothelial growth factor expression on bone marrow mast cells. Five-year survival rates of patients with VWF:Ag < 110, between 110 and 250, and more than 250 U/dL were 96%, 71%, and 44%, respectively (P < .0001). High VWF:Ag was also a significant adverse prognostic factor for survival after first-line therapy (P < .0001), independently of the international scoring system. These results support systematic assessment of VWF in patients with WM. The adverse prognostic value of high VWF levels raises issues on interactions between lymphoplasmacytic cells, mast cells, and endothelial cells in WM.
Developmental plasticity of bacterial colonies and consortia in germ-free and gnotobiotic settings
Authors: Pátková Irena , Čepl Jaroslav J , Rieger Tomáš , Blahůšková Anna , Neubauer Zdeněk , Markoš Anton 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
Bacteria grown on semi-solid media can build two types of multicellular structures, depending on the circumstances. Bodies (colonies) arise when a single clone is grown axenically (germ-free), whereas multispecies chimeric consortia contain monoclonal microcolonies of participants. Growth of an axenic colony, mutual interactions of colonies, and negotiation of the morphospace in consortial ecosystems are results of intricate regulatory and metabolic networks. Multicellular structures developed by Serratia sp. are characteristically shaped and colored, forming patterns that reflect their growth conditions (in particular medium composition and the presence of other bacteria).

Results
Building on our previous work, we developed a model system for studying ontogeny of multicellular bacterial structures formed by five Serratia sp. morphotypes of two species grown in either "germ-free" or "gnotobiotic" settings (i.e. in the presence of bacteria of other conspecific morphotype, other Serratia species, or E. coli). Monoclonal bodies show regular and reproducible macroscopic appearance of the colony, as well as microscopic pattern of its growing margin. Standard development can be modified in a characteristic and reproducible manner in close vicinity of other bacterial structures (or in the presence of their products). Encounters of colonies with neighbors of a different morphotype or species reveal relationships of dominance, cooperation, or submission; multiple interactions can be summarized in "rock – paper – scissors" network of interrelationships. Chimerical (mixed) plantings consisting of two morphotypes usually produced a “consortium” whose structure is consistent with the model derived from interaction patterns observed in colonies.

Conclusions
Our results suggest that development of a bacterial colony can be considered analogous to embryogenesis in animals, plants, or fungi: to proceed, early stages require thorough insulation from the rest of the biosphere. Only later, the newly developing body gets connected to the ecological interactions in the biosphere. Mixed “anlagen” cannot accomplish the first, germ-free phase of development; hence, they will result in the consortium of small colonies. To map early development and subsequent interactions with the rest of the biospheric web, simplified gnotobiotic systems described here may turn to be of general use, complementing similar studies on developing multicellular eukaryots under germ-free or gnotobiotic conditions.
Histone acetyltransferases in rice (Oryza sativaL.): phylogenetic analysis, subcellular localization and expression
Authors: Liu Xia , Luo Ming , Zhang Wei , Zhao Jinhui , Zhang Jianxia , Wu Keqiang , Tian Lining , Duan Jun 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
Histone acetyltransferases (HATs) play an important role in eukaryotic transcription. Eight HATs identified in rice (OsHATs) can be organized into four families, namely the CBP (OsHAC701, OsHAC703, and OsHAC704), TAFII250 (OsHAF701), GNAT (OsHAG702, OsHAG703, and OsHAG704), and MYST (OsHAM701) families. The biological functions of HATs in rice remain unknown, so a comprehensive protein sequence analysis of the HAT families was conducted to investigate their potential functions. In addition, the subcellular localization and expression patterns of the eight OsHATs were analyzed.

Results
On the basis of a phylogenetic and domain analysis, monocotyledonous CBP family proteins can be subdivided into two groups, namely Group I and Group II. Similarly, dicotyledonous CBP family proteins can be divided into two groups, namely Group A and Group B. High similarities of protein sequences, conserved domains and three-dimensional models were identified among OsHATs and their homologs in Arabidopsis thaliana and maize. Subcellular localization predictions indicated that all OsHATs might localize in both the nucleus and cytosol. Transient expression in Arabidopsis protoplasts confirmed the nuclear and cytosolic localization of OsHAC701, OsHAG702, and OsHAG704. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis demonstrated that the eight OsHATs were expressed in all tissues examined with significant differences in transcript abundance, and their expression was modulated by abscisic acid and salicylic acid as well as abiotic factors such as salt, cold, and heat stresses.

Conclusions
Both monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous CBP family proteins can be divided into two distinct groups, which suggest the possibility of functional diversification. The high similarities of protein sequences, conserved domains and three-dimensional models among OsHATs and their homologs in Arabidopsis and maize suggested that OsHATs have multiple functions. OsHAC701, OsHAG702, and OsHAG704 were localized in both the nucleus and cytosol in transient expression analyses with Arabidopsis protoplasts. OsHATs were expressed constitutively in rice, and their expression was regulated by exogenous hormones and abiotic stresses, which suggested that OsHATs may play important roles in plant defense responses.
Identification and characterization of small non-coding RNAs from Chinese fir by high throughput sequencing
Authors: Wan Li-Chuan , Wang Feng , Guo Xiangqian , Lu Shanfa , Qiu Zongbo , Zhao Yuanyuan , Zhang Haiyan , Lin Jinxing 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
Small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs) play key roles in plant development, growth and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. At least four classes of sRNAs have been well characterized in plants, including repeat-associated siRNAs (rasiRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), trans-acting siRNAs (tasiRNAs) and natural antisense transcript-derived siRNAs. Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) is one of the most important coniferous evergreen tree species in China. No sRNA from Chinese fir has been described to date.

Results
To obtain sRNAs in Chinese fir, we sequenced a sRNA library generated from seeds, seedlings, leaves, stems and calli, using Illumina high throughput sequencing technology. A comprehensive set of sRNAs were acquired, including conserved and novel miRNAs, rasiRNAs and tasiRNAs. With BLASTN and MIREAP we identified a total of 115 conserved miRNAs comprising 40 miRNA families and one novel miRNA with precursor sequence. The expressions of 16 conserved and one novel miRNAs and one tasiRNA were detected by RT-PCR. Utilizing real time RT-PCR, we revealed that four conserved and one novel miRNAs displayed developmental stage-specific expression patterns in Chinese fir. In addition, 209 unigenes were predicted to be targets of 30 Chinese fir miRNA families, of which five target genes were experimentally verified by 5' RACE, including a squamosa promoter-binding protein gene, a pentatricopeptide (PPR) repeat-containing protein gene, a BolA-like family protein gene, AGO1 and a gene of unknown function. We also demonstrated that the DCL3-dependent rasiRNA biogenesis pathway, which had been considered absent in conifers, existed in Chinese fir. Furthermore, the miR390-TAS3-ARF regulatory pathway was elucidated.

Conclusions
We unveiled a complex population of sRNAs in Chinese fir through high throughput sequencing. This provides an insight into the composition and function of sRNAs in Chinese fir and sheds new light on land plant sRNA evolution.
Human pancreatic adenocarcinoma contains a side population resistant to gemcitabine
Authors: Van den broeck Anke , Gremeaux Lies , Topal Baki , Vankelecom Hugo 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackgroundTherapy resistance remains one of the major challenges to improve the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer. Chemoresistant cells, which potentially also display cancer stem cell (CSC) characteristics, can be isolated using the side population (SP) technique. Our aim was to search for a SP in human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and to examine its chemoresistance and CSC(−like) phenotype.MethodsHuman PDAC samples were expanded in immunodeficient mice and first-generation xenografts analyzed for the presence of a Hoechst dye-effluxing SP using flow cytometry (FACS). To investigate chemoresistance of the SP, mice bearing PDAC xenografts were treated with gemcitabine and SP proportion determined. In addition, the SP and the main tumour cell population (MP) were sorted by FACS for RNA extraction to profile gene expression, and for culturing under sphere-forming conditions.ResultsA SP was identified in all PDAC samples, analyzed. This SP was more resistant to gemcitabine than the other tumour cells as examinedin vivo. Whole-genome expression profiling of the SP revealed upregulation of genes related to therapy resistance, apoptotic regulation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. In addition, the SP displayed higher tumourigenic (CSC) activity than the MP as analyzedin vitroby sphere-forming capacity.ConclusionWe identified a SP in human PDAC and uncovered a chemoresistant and CSC-associated phenotype. This SP may represent a new therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer.Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov NCT00936104
Omega-3 fatty acids are protective against paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy: A randomized double-blind placebo controlled trial
Authors: Ghoreishi Zohreh , Esfahani Ali , Djazayeri Abolghasem , Djalali Mahmoud , Golestan Banafsheh , Ayromlou Hormoz , Hashemzade Shahriar , Asghari Jafarabadi Mohammad , Montazeri Vahid , Keshavarz Seyed Ali , Darabi Masoud 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
Axonal sensory peripheral neuropathy is the major dose-limiting side effect of paclitaxel.Omega-3 fatty acids have beneficial effects on neurological disorders from their effects on neurons cells and inhibition of the formation of proinflammatory cytokines involved in peripheral neuropathy.

Methods
This study was a randomized double blind placebo controlled trial to investigate the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids in reducing incidence and severity of paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN). Eligible patients with breast cancer randomly assigned to take omega-3 fatty acid pearls, 640 mg t.i.d during chemotherapy with paclitaxel and one month after the end of the treatment or placebo. Clinical and electrophysiological studies were performed before the onset of chemotherapy and one month after cessation of therapy to evaluate PIPN based on "reduced Total Neuropathy Score".

Results
Twenty one patients (70%) of the group taking omega-3 fatty acid supplement (n = 30) did not develop PN while it was 40.7%( 11 patients) in the placebo group(n = 27). A significant difference was seen in PN incidence (OR = 0.3, .95% CI = (0.10-0.88), p = 0.029). There was a non-significant trend for differences of PIPN severity between the two study groups but the frequencies of PN in all scoring categories were higher in the placebo group (0.95% CI = (−2.06 -0.02), p = 0.054).

Conclusions
Omega-3 fatty acids may be an efficient neuroprotective agent for prophylaxis against PIPN. Patients with breast cancer have a longer disease free survival rate with the aid of therapeutical agents. Finding a way to solve the disabling effects of PIPN would significantly improve the patients’ quality of life.

Trial registration
This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01049295)
Visual acuity improvements after implantation of toric intraocular lenses in cataract patients with astigmatism: a systematic review
Authors: Agresta Blaise , Knorz Michael C , Donatti Christina , Jackson Daniel 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
Cataracts are a common and significant cause of visual impairment globally. We aimed to evaluate uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) as an outcome in treating astigmatic cataract patients to assist clinicians or ophthalmologists in their decision making process regarding available interventions.

Methods
Medline, Embase and Evidence Based Reviews were systematically reviewed to identify relevant studies reporting changes in UDVA, UIVA and UNVA after cataract surgery in presbyopic patients. Strict inclusion/exclusion criteria were used to exclude any non-relevant studies. Relevant outcomes (UDVA, UIVA and UNVA) were identified from the studies retrieved through the systematic review process.

Results
The systematic review identified 11 studies which reported UCVA. All 11 studies reported UDVA. Four brands of toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) were reported in these studies. All studies identified in the literature search reported improvements in UDVA following surgical implant of a toric IOL. The largest improvements in VA were reported using the Human Optics MicroSil toric IOL (0.74 LogMAR, UDVA) and the smallest improvements were also reported using the Human Optics MicroSil toric IOL (0.23 LogMAR, UDVA) in a different study.

Conclusions
The results of this systematic review showed the aggregate of studies reporting a beneficial increase in UDVA with the use of toric IOLs in cataract patients with astigmatism.