bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of polymorphisms in genes involved in autoimmune disease on inhibitor development in Chinese patients with haemophilia A
Authors: Lu Yeling , Ding Qiulan , Dai Jing , Wang Hongli , Wang Xuefeng 
Published: November 2011

SummaryOne of the most severe and important complication in the treatment of haemophilia A (HA) patients is the formation of inhibitors. The mechanism that leads to factor (F)VIII inhibitor formation is complicated. Both genetic and environmental factors have been mentioned to play decisive roles. Recently, polymorphisms in the genes encoding interleukin-10 (IL-10), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4), have been suggested to be contributing determinants of the inhibitor risk. In order to investigate the influence of the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding for cytokines to the inhibitors development in Chinese HA patients, we genotyped 10 SNPs with high heterozygote rates in Chinese and a CA repeat microsatellite at the gene loci IL-10 as well in a separate, unrelated case-controlled cohort of 122 affected HA patients; 63 with inhibitors and 59 without inhibitors. The particular SNPs included in this study were as follows: –592C/A and –819C/T in IL-10, –590C/T in IL-4, –318C/T and 49A/G in CTLA-4, –827C/T in TNF-α, –1112C/T and 2044G/A in IL-13, 874A/T in interferon (IFN)-γ and –295T/C in IL-16. Our results demonstrated that –819T and –592A alleles in IL-10 were observed more frequently in patients with inhibitors. This indicated that –819C/T and –592A/C in IL-10 may influence the inhibitors development in HA patients. Furthermore, we concluded that the haplotype in IL-10 (TA, CA, CC at positions –819 and –582, respectively) may predispose FVIII inhibitor development in HA patients. In conclusion, the data reported in our study clearly highlight the participation of IL-10 in inhibitors formation in Chinese HA patients.
The anticoagulant function of coagulation factor V
Authors: Cramer Thomas J. , Gale Andrew J. 
Published: November 2011

SummaryAlmost two decades ago an anticoagulant function of factor V (FV) was discovered, as an anticoagulant cofactor for activated protein C (APC). A natural mutant of FV in which the R506 inactivation site was mutated to Gln (FVLeiden) was inactivated slower by APC, but also could not function as anticoagulant cofactor for APC in the inactivation of activated factor VIII (FVIIIa). This mutation is prevalent in populations of Caucasian descent, and increases the chance of thrombotic events in carriers. Characterisation of the FV anticoagulant effect has elucidated multiple properties of the anticoagulant function of FV: 1) Cleavage of FV at position 506 by APC is required for anticoagulant function. 2) The C-terminal part of the FV B domain is required and the B domain must have an intact connection with the A3 domain of FV. 3) FV must be bound to a negatively charged phospholipid membrane. 4) Protein S also needs to be present. 5) FV acts as a cofactor for inactivation of both FVa and FVIIIa. 6) The prothrombotic function of FVLeiden is a function of both reduced APC cofactor activity and resistance of FVa to APC inactivation. However, detailed structural and mechanistic properties remain to be further explored.
Who formulates self-regulatory action plans regarding fruit consumption? An application of the Big Five personality theory
Authors: de Bruijna Gert-Jan 
Published: November 2011

Objective: Action planning is regarded as an important correlate and predictor of health behaviour, but little is known about antecedents of action planning. Because personality constructs have been shown to moderate the effect of action planning interventions, the present study tested associations of personality dimensions with action planning and fruit consumption. Design and setting: Cross-sectional data collected with self-administered questionnaires in a university setting. Method: Undergraduate students ( n = 443; mean age = 21.45 (SD = 2.96) years, 68.7% females) who participated for course credits and completed measures of personality dimensions, action planning, intention, and fruit consumption based on validated questionnaires. The first set of analyses focused on antecedents of fruit consumption action planning employing stepwise regression analysis. The second set of analyses focused on intention and action planning as mediators of the personality–fruit consumption link using structural equation modelling. Results: Higher scores for fruit consumption action planning were found for more conscientiousness and less neurotic individuals. Further, more conscientious individuals consumed more fruits and this relationship was mediated by action planning. Conclusion: Findings provide support for action planning as a mediator in the Conscientiousness–fruit consumption link and suggest that personality influences may need to be taken into account when developing action planning strategies aimed at increasing fruit consumption.
When Contexts Meet
Authors: Singleton Vicky 
Published: November 2011

The article discusses three versions of context. First, UK Government legislation, the British Cattle Tracing System (CTS), as a context that frames and guides good farming practices to promote accountability for cattle movements and to control disease. It describes how the legislative context creates particular constructions of farmers, cows, and good and bad farming practices. Second, the article creates context as the local farm-based practices of cattle movement and monitoring. Differences and similarities between the legislative requirements and the farm-based practices are discussed. The farming practices are primarily practices of responsibility and care that are embodied, relational, collective, and responsive. The article draws upon feminist insights into responsibility and accountability that accountability is mundane practices of touch, regard, looking back, and becoming with. Thereby, the article creates a third context in which local farming practices, legislation, and feminism meet and interact with one another. Within this “meta-context” of interferences between contexts, accountability is revisioned as the very condition of farm-based practices of care and responsibility. At the same time, the article revisions context as emergent in interferences and enacts alternative versions of farmers, cows, and good and bad practices.
The impact of off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery on postoperative renal function
Authors: Abu-Omar Y , Taghavi FJ , Navaratnarajah M , Ali A , Shahir A , Yu L-M , Choong CK , Taggart DP 
Published: November 2011

Objectives: A number of risk factors have been recognised for postoperative renal dysfunction following on-pump coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). There are, however, few studies that have evaluated the potential reno-protective effects of off-pump CABG in the presence of other confounding risk factors. The aim of this study was to determine if off-pump CABG reduces the risk of renal injury. Methods: Serum creatinine values (preoperatively and day 1, 2 and 4 postoperatively) and other clinical data were prospectively collected on 1580 consecutive patients who underwent first-time CABG from 2002 to 2005. Creatinine clearance was calculated using the Cockcroft and Gault equation. The effect of on-pump vs. off-pump CABG on renal function was analysed, adjusting for age, gender, diabetes mellitus, left ventricular (LV) function and preoperative creatinine clearance, using multiple regression analysis. Results: One thousand one hundred and forty-five (73%) patients underwent on-pump CABG and 435 (27%) underwent off-pump CABG. The two groups were similar with respect to age, gender and diabetes. Two hundred and seventy-four (17%) patients were females and 274 (17%) patients had diabetes. Multivariate analysis demonstrated significantly lower creatinine clearance postoperatively in patients with diabetes (P<0.001) and advanced age (P<0.001). The on-pump group had significantly lower postoperative creatinine clearance in comparison to the off-pump group (P= 0.01). The effect remained consistent after adjusting for potential risk factors (age, diabetes, gender, LV function and preoperative creatinine clearance) in the multivariate analysis. Conclusion: Off-pump surgery is associated with a reduction in postoperative renal injury.
Urinary catheterization in acute stroke: clinical realities. A mixed methods study
Authors: Cowey Eileen , Smith Lorraine N , Booth Jo , Weir Christopher J 
Published: November 2011

Objective: To determine what influences the decision to insert an indwelling urinary catheter in acute stroke patients. Design: A prospective casenote review and semi-structured interviews were conducted and corporate catheterization policy in the study sites was investigated. Setting: Three teaching hospitals, typical of stroke service provision in most developed countries. Subjects: Casenotes from 70 consecutive acute stroke admissions; 50 doctors, nurses and physiotherapists working in acute stroke units and medical receiving units. Results: Stroke patients were catheterized for output monitoring, relief of urinary retention or, especially for older patients, continence-related issues. Half of all catheterizations occurred in acute stroke units. Continence and catheterization were considered less important than other aspects of acute stroke care. No catheterization policy or standardized continence assessment tool was in use. Documentation was often lacking. Patients and relatives were not fully involved in the decision to catheterize. Continence assessment and catheterization practices varied widely. Complex unwritten rules relating to gender proliferated. Such rules demonstrated heuristic problem-solving could potentially cause conflict. Decisions to catheterize ‘belonged’ to doctors or nurses depending upon clinical indications. Clinical assessment and specialist referrals were often seen as ‘not my job’. Conclusions: Clear corporate policy on catheterization is required to direct practice. Use of standardized continence assessment tools is recommended to set and monitor standards of care. Documentation relating to urinary catheterization needs to improve.
Does Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Lead to Degenerative Disease?
Authors: Murray James R.D. , Lindh Amy M. , Hogan Niall A. , Trezies Alister J. , Hutchinson James W. , Parish Erin , Read John W. , Cross Mervyn V. 
Published: November 2011

Background: Reporting of long-term outcome of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with the patellar tendon (bone–patellar tendon–bone [BTB]) autograft is limited. There are concerns that degenerative joint disease is common in the long term, which may be associated with the procedure itself. Hypotheses: (1) ACL reconstruction with BTB provides good long-term outcome. (2) There are additional factors to surgical reconstruction that can be associated with the development of degenerative disease. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Of 161 patients, 114 were eligible. Patient-centered outcome was by Lysholm and subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score; objective outcome measures were clinical examination and IKDC radiological grade. Results: Mean average follow-up was 13 years. The IKDC radiological grades in the worst compartment were A = 15%, B = 51%, C = 19%, and D = 14% (n = 83). There was a significant difference between the injured versus contralateral uninjured knee (n = 42, P = .003). In a subgroup with no meniscal or chondral injury the IKDC grades were A = 38%, B = 55%, C = 7%, and D = 0% (n = 29). The mean subjective scores were 89 ± 11 (Lysholm) and 83 ± 15 (IKDC) (n = 114). Poor IKDC subjective outcome was associated with chondral injury ( P = .001), previous surgery ( P = .022), return to sport ( P = .013), and poor radiological grade in the ipsilateral medial compartment ( P = .004). A poor IKDC radiological grade was associated with chondral injury ( P = .002), meniscal injury ( P = .010) and meniscectomy ( P = .012), an IKDC subjective score of <85 ( P = .01), and poor radiological grade in the contralateral medial compartment ( P = .041). Conclusion: At 13 years, BTB ACL reconstruction provides a good outcome. Chondral and meniscal damage at surgery were associated with a poor radiological outcome, indicating that injuries sustained during ACL rupture may be the main predictors of degenerative bone disease.
Mobile telecommunications and health: report of an investigation into an alleged cancer cluster in Sandwell, West Midlands
Authors: Stewart Antony , Rao Jammi N , Middleton John D , Pearmain Philippa , Evans Tim 
Published: November 2011

Aims: Residents of one street expressed concern about the number of incident cancers, following the installation of a nearby mobile phone base station. The investigation explored whether the base station could be responsible for the cancers. Methods: Data were collected from residents’ medical records. GPs and oncologists provided further information. Results: Ward-level cancer incidence and mortality data were also obtained, over four three-year time periods. A total of 19 residents had developed cancer. The collection of cancers did not fulfil the criteria for a cancer cluster. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) for all malignant neoplasms (excluding non-melanoma skin cancers) in females (1.38 (95% CI, 1.08–1.74)) and all persons (1.27 (CI, 1.06–1.51)) were significantly higher than in the West Midlands during 2001–3. There were no significant differences for colorectal, female breast and prostate cancers, for any time period. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for non-melanoma skin cancers in males and all persons was significantly lower than in the West Midlands during 1999–2001, and significantly lower in males, females and all persons during 2002–4. Conclusions: We cannot conclude that the base station was responsible for the cancers. It is unlikely that information around a single base station can either demonstrate or exclude causality.
Molecular markers to characterize the hermaphroditic reproductive system of the planarian Schmidtea mediterranea
Authors: Chong Tracy , Stary Joel M , Wang Yuying , Newmark Phillip A 
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Background
The freshwater planarian Schmidtea mediterranea exhibits two distinct reproductive modes. Individuals of the sexual strain are cross-fertilizing hermaphrodites with reproductive organs that develop post-embryonically. By contrast, individuals of the asexual strain reproduce exclusively by transverse fission and fail to develop reproductive organs. These different reproductive strains are associated with distinct karyotypes, making S. mediterranea a useful model for studying germline development and sexual differentiation.

Results
To identify genes expressed differentially between these strains, we performed microarray analyses and identified >800 genes that were upregulated in the sexual planarian. From these, we characterized 24 genes by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), revealing their expression in male germ cells or accessory reproductive organs. To identify additional markers of the planarian reproductive system, we also used immuno- and fluorescent lectin staining, identifying several antibodies and lectins that labeled structures associated with reproductive organs.

Conclusions
Collectively, these cell-type specific markers will enable future efforts to characterize genes that are important for reproductive development in the planarian.
Association between carotid area calcifications and periodontal risk: a cross sectional study of panoramic radiographic findings
Authors: Tiller Ralph , Bengel Wolfgang , Rinke Sven , Ziebolz Dirk 
Published: November 2011

AbstractBackgroundThe aim was to investigate the extent to which it is possible to diagnose suspected carotid calcification from dental panoramic radiography (PR) and to establish an association to periodontal risk.Methods824 PRs from one dental practice were investigated. Parameters considered were gender, age, bone loss - age index, tooth loss, periodontal risk and suspected carotid calcification (left, right, both sides). Periodontal risk was classified: low risk (under 4 missing teeth, bone loss - age index under 0.5), moderate risk (5 to 8 missing teeth and/or bone loss - age index 0.5 to 1.0) and high risk (more than 9 missing teeth and or bone loss - age index greater than 1.0).ResultsOf 824 patients, 349 were male (42.4%) and 475 female (57.6%); the mean age was 48.32 ± 16.52 years. In 9.0% (n = 74) of PRs, suspected carotid calcification was diagnosed (right: 5.5%, left: 2.3%, both sides: 1.2%). The mean tooth loss was 4.16 ± 5.39 teeth. In the case of 282 patients (34.2%), there was a low, in 335 patients (40.7%) a moderate, and in 207 patients (25.1%) a high periodontal risk. There was a significant correlation found between number of cases of suspected carotid calcification and periodontal risk, tooth loss and age (p = 0.0001). However, only age showed a significant association (OR: 4.9; CI: 2.4-9.8; p < 0.0001) in contrast to periodontal risk (OR 1.4; CI: 0.9-2.4).ConclusionPR can provides indication of carotid calcification as a secondary (chance) finding. In addition, periodontal risk may be correlated with positive findings of carotid calcification.
Immunohistochemical localization of hepatopancreatic phospholipase in gastropods mollusc, Littorina littorea and Buccinum undatum digestive cells
Authors: Zarai Zied , Boulais Nicholas , Marcorelles Pascale , Gobin Eric , Bezzine Sofiane , Mejdoub Hafedh , Gargouri Youssef 
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Background
Among the digestive enzymes, phospholipase A2 (PLA2) hydrolyzes the essential dietary phospholipids in marine fish and shellfish. However, we know little about the organs that produce PLA2, and the ontogeny of the PLA2-cells. Accordingly, accurate localization of PLA2 in marine snails might afford a better understanding permitting the control of the quality and composition of diets and the mode of digestion of lipid food.

Results
We have previously producted an antiserum reacting specifically with mSDPLA2. It labeled zymogen granules of the hepatopancreatic acinar cells and the secretory materials of certain epithelial cells in the depths of epithelial crypts in the hepatopancreas of snail. To confirm this localization a laser capture microdissection was performed targeting stained cells of hepatopancreas tissue sections. A Western blot analysis revealed a strong signal at the expected size (30 kDa), probably corresponding to the PLA2.

Conclusions
The present results support the presence of two hepatopancreatic intracellular and extracellular PLA2 in the prosobranchs gastropods molluscs, Littorina littorea and Buccinum undatum and bring insights on their localizations.
Comparison of the effect of a CIDR-Select Synch versus a long-term CIDR based AI protocol on reproductive performance in multiparous dairy cows in Swiss dairy farms
Authors: Rudolph Jürn , Bruckmaier Rupert M , Kasimanickam Ramanathan , Steiner Adrian , Kirchhofer Marc , Hüsler Jürg , Hirsbrunner Gaby 
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Background
Synchronization programs have become standard in the dairy industry in many countries. In Switzerland, these programs are not routinely used for groups of cows, but predominantly as a therapy for individual problem cows. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of a CIDR-Select Synch and a 12-d CIDR protocol on the pregnancy rate in healthy, multiparous dairy cows in Swiss dairy farms.

Methods
Cows (N = 508) were randomly assigned to CIDR-Select Synch (N = 262) or 12-d CIDR (N = 246) protocols. Cows in the CIDR-Select Synch group received a CIDR and 2.5 ml of buserelin i.m. on d 0. On d 7, the CIDR insert was removed and 5 ml of dinoprost was administered i.m.. Cows in the 12-d CIDR group received the CIDR on d 0 and it was removed on d 12 (the routine CIDR protocol in Swiss dairies). On d 0 a milk sample for progesterone analysis was taken. Cows were inseminated upon observed estrus. Pregnancy was determined at or more than 35 days after artificial insemination. As a first step, the two groups were compared as to indication for treatment, breed, stud book, stall, pasture, and farmer's business using chi square tests or Fisher's exact test. Furthermore, groups were compared as to age, DIM, number of AI's, number of cows per farm, and yearly milk yield per cow using nonparametric ANOVA. A multiple logistic model was used to relate the success of the protocols to all of the available factors; in particular treatment (CIDR-Select Synch/12-d CIDR), milk progesterone value, age, DIM, previous treatment of the uterus, previous gynecological treatment, and number of preceding inseminations.

Results
The pregnancy rate was higher in cows following the CIDR-Select Synch compared to the 12-d CIDR protocol (50.4% vs. 22.4%; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion
The CIDR-Select Synch protocol may be highly recommended for multiparous dairy cows. The reduced time span of the progesterone insert decreased the number of days open, improved the pregnancy rate compared to the 12-d CIDR protocol and the cows did not to have to be handled more often.
Drug-eluting Ti wires with titania nanotube arrays for bone fixation and reduced bone infection
Authors: Gulati Karan , Aw Moom Sinn , Losic Dusan 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
Current bone fixation technology which uses stainless steel wires known as Kirschner wires for fracture fixing often causes infection and reduced skeletal load resulting in implant failure. Creating new wires with drug-eluting properties to locally deliver drugs is an appealing approach to address some of these problems. This study presents the use of titanium [Ti] wires with titania nanotube [TNT] arrays formed with a drug delivery capability to design alternative bone fixation tools for orthopaedic applications. A titania layer with an array of nanotube structures was synthesised on the surface of a Ti wire by electrochemical anodisation and loaded with antibiotic (gentamicin) used as a model of bone anti-bacterial drug. Successful fabrication of TNT structures with pore diameters of approximately 170 nm and length of 70 μm is demonstrated for the first time in the form of wires. The drug release characteristics of TNT-Ti wires were evaluated, showing a two-phase release, with a burst release (37%) and a slow release with zero-order kinetics over 11 days. These results confirmed our system's ability to be applied as a drug-eluting tool for orthopaedic applications. The established biocompatibility of TNT structures, closer modulus of elasticity to natural bones and possible inclusion of desired drugs, proteins or growth factors make this system a promising alternative to replace conventional bone implants to prevent bone infection and to be used for targeted treatment of bone cancer, osteomyelitis and other orthopaedic diseases.