bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Disruption of BIRC3 associates with fludarabine chemorefractoriness in TP53 wild-type chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Rossi Davide , Fangazio Marco , Rasi Silvia , Vaisitti Tiziana , Monti Sara , Cresta Stefania , Chiaretti Sabina , Del Giudice Ilaria , Fabbri Giulia , Bruscaggin Alessio , Spina Valeria , Deambrogi Clara , Marinelli Marilisa , Famà Rosella , Greco Mariangela , Daniele Giulia , Forconi Francesco , Gattei Valter , Bertoni Francesco , Deaglio Silvia , Pasqualucci Laura , Guarini Anna , Dalla-Favera Riccardo , Foà Robin , Gaidano Gianluca 
Published: February 2012

AbstractThe genetic lesions identified to date do not fully recapitulate the molecular pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and do not entirely explain the development of severe complications such as chemorefractoriness. In the present study, BIRC3, a negative regulator of noncanonical NF-κB signaling, was investigated in different CLL clinical phases. BIRC3 lesions were absent in monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (0 of 63) and were rare in CLL at diagnosis (13 of 306, 4%). Conversely, BIRC3 disruption selectively affected 12 of 49 (24%) fludarabine-refractory CLL cases by inactivating mutations and/or gene deletions that distributed in a mutually exclusive fashion with TP53 abnormalities. In contrast to fludarabine-refractory CLL, progressive but fludarabine-sensitive patients were consistently devoid of BIRC3 abnormalities, suggesting that BIRC3 genetic lesions associate specifically with a chemorefractory phenotype. By actuarial analysis in newly diagnosed CLL (n = 306), BIRC3 disruption identified patients with a poor outcome similar to that associated with TP53 abnormalities and exerted a prognostic role that was independent of widely accepted clinical and genetic risk factors. Consistent with the role of BIRC3 as a negative regulator of NF-κB, biochemical studies revealed the presence of constitutive noncanonical NF-κB activation in fludarabine-refractory CLL patients harboring molecular lesions of BIRC3. These data identify BIRC3 disruption as a recurrent genetic lesion of high-risk CLL devoid of TP53 abnormalities.
Age-related accumulation of T cells with markers of relatively stronger autoreactivity leads to functional erosion of T cells
Authors: Tatari-Calderone Zohreh , Stojakovic Milica , Dewan Ramita , Bouder Gama Le , Jankovic Dragana , Vukmanovic Stanislav 
Published: February 2012

AbstractBackgroundThymic involution is a prominent characteristic of an aging immune system. When thymic function is reduced/absent, the peripheral T cell pool is subject to the laws of peripheral T cell homeostasis that favor survival/expansion of T cell receptors with relatively higher functional avidity for self-peptide/MHC complexes. Due to difficulties in assessing the TCR avidity in polyclonal population of T cells, it is currently not known whether high avidity T cells preferentially survive in aging individuals, and what impact this might have on the function of the immune system and development of autoimmune diseases.ResultsThe phenotype of T cells from aged mice (18-24 months) indicating functional TCR avidity (CD3 and CD5 expression) correlates with the level of preserved thymic function. In mice with moderate thymic output (> 30% of peripheral CD62LhiT cells), T cells displayed CD3lowCD5hiphenotype characteristic for high functional avidity. In old mice with drastically low numbers of CD62LhiT cells reduced CD5 levels were found. After adult thymectomy, T cells of young mice developed CD3lowCD5hiphenotype, followed by a CD3lowCD5lowphenotype. Spleens of old mice with the CD3low/CD5hiT cell phenotype displayed increased levels of IL-10 mRNA, and their T cells could be induced to secrete IL-10 in vitro. In contrast, downmodulation of CD5 was accompanied with reducedIL-10expression and impaired anti-CD3 induced proliferation. Irrespective of the CD3/CD5 phenotype, reduced severity of experimental allergic myelitis occurred in old mice. In MTB TCRβ transgenic mice that display globally elevated TCR avidity for self peptide/MHC, identical change patterns occurred, only at an accelerated pace.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that age-associated dysfunctions of the immune system could in part be due to functional erosion of T cells devised to protect the hosts from the prolonged exposure to T cells with high-avidity for self.
Can physical activity reduce excessive gestational weight gain? Findings from a Chinese urban pregnant women cohort study
Authors: Jiang Hong , Qian Xu , Li Mu , Lynn Henry , Fan Yanyan , Jiang Hongyi , He Fengling , He Gengsheng 
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Background
Excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) poses negative impact on mothers and their children. It is important to understand the modifiable lifestyle factors associated with excessive GWG during pregnancy to guide future public health practice.

Aim
To investigate the association between physical activity during pregnancy and GWG of Chinese urban pregnant women.

Methods
A pregnant women cohort was established between 2005 and 2007 in Changzhou, China. Physical activity levels of pregnant women were assessed using pedometer in the 2nd and 3rd trimester, respectively. According to step counts, pregnant women were categorized into 4 different physical activity groups: Sedentary, Low Active, Somewhat Active and Active. The pregnant women were followed for eligibility and data collection from the 2nd trimester to delivery. Multiple linear regression and multiple binary logistic model were applied to determine the association between physical activity and GWG.

Results
Physical activity levels and GWG of 862 pregnant women were assessed, among them 473 (54.9%) experienced excessive GWG. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) was 0.59 (95%CI: 0.36 ~ 0.95) for excessive GWG in the Active group during the 2nd trimester and 0.66 (95%CI: 0.43 ~ 1.00) in the Somewhat Active group during the 3rd trimester, compared with the Sedentary group respectively. In the last two trimesters, the Active group had 1.45 kg less GWG, than the Sedentary group. The ORs of excessive GWG decreased with the increased level of physical activity (P < 0.05).

Conclusion
This study suggests that pregnant women being physically active have less weight gain during pregnancy.
ATLANTIC-DIP: Raised Maternal Body Mass Index (BMI) Adversely Affects Maternal and Fetal Outcomes in Glucose-Tolerant Women According to International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) Criteria
Authors: Dennedy Michael Conall , Avalos Gloria , O'Reilly Michael W. , O'Sullivan Eoin P. , Gaffney Geraldine , Dunne Fidelma 
Published: February 2012

Context:
Raised maternal body mass index (BMI) in association with hyperglycemia is associated with adverse pregnancy outcome. The contribution of raised BMI as an independent risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcome is of growing concern and increasing prevalence.

Objective:
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of raised maternal BMI on pregnancy outcome in glucose-tolerant women using the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups criteria.

Participants and Setting:
We studied a cohort of glucose-tolerant, pregnant women (n = 3656) who were attending antenatal obstetric clinics and were recruited to a universal screening program for gestational diabetes under the ATLANTIC-DIP partnership.

Design:
We conducted a prospective observational study of pregnancy outcome. Maternal outcomes include glucose, delivery mode, pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, antepartum hemorrhage, and postpartum hemorrhage. Fetal outcomes included birthweight, congenital malformation, fetal death, neonatal jaundice, hypoglycemia, and respiratory distress.

Results:
Increasing maternal BMI was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes: higher cesarean section rates, preeclampsia, pregnancy-induced hypertension, increased birth weight, and congenital malformation. The association of glucose with adverse pregnancy outcome was weak and did not interact with raised BMI. A BMI threshold of 28 kg/m2 was associated with a significant rise in adverse pregnancy outcome.

Conclusions:
Raised maternal BMI, within the overweight range, is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. These adverse effects of BMI occur independently of maternal glucose. It is apparent that pregnancy unmasks an underlying unhealthy metabolic milieu in obese and overweight women.
Establishment of a reference interval for urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin
Authors: Cullen M Rachel , Murray Patrick T , Fitzgibbon Maria C 
Published: February 2012

Introduction Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is emerging as a promising new biomarker for the early identification of acute kidney injury (AKI). We have determined a reference range in a large healthy population. In addition, as NGAL is a neutrophil-related protein, we investigated whether the presence of leukocyturia has the potential to significantly alter the specificity of NGAL in the diagnosis of AKI. Methods One hundred and seventy-four subjects (100 men, 74 women ranging from 19 to 88 y) were included in the reference population. Urinary NGAL was analysed on the Abbott ARCHITECT and results expressed in mass ( μg/L) and also normalized to urinary creatinine ( μg/mmol). Fifty-two leukocyturic urine samples were also analysed for NGAL. Results The 95th centile for NGAL was determined to be 107 μg/L (13 μg/mmol). There were significant gender-related differences for NGAL, with women having higher concentrations. There were significant age-related differences for NGAL between the 40–59 and 60–88 y age categories. There were significant age-related differences between the <40 and 60–88 y categories when NGAL was normalized to creatinine. In addition, we found significantly higher concentrations of NGAL in leukocyturia ( P < 0.0001). Conclusions We have established a 95th centile cut-off for urinary NGAL in a reference population. We have demonstrated the important potential interference of leukocyturia in confounding the interpretation of NGAL in the diagnosis of AKI.
Perinatal complications associated with maternal asthma during pregnancy
Authors: Johnston Stephanie , Said Joanne 
Published: February 2012

Background Asthma is one of the most common medical illnesses occurring in pregnancy and its incidence amongst the obstetric population is increasing. Previous studies have suggested that asthma is not a benign illness in pregnancy, and can contribute towards increased rates of pregnancy complications. Methods We undertook a retrospective audit of 6458 deliveries during 2008 at The Royal Women's Hospital to determine the perinatal outcomes for women with a self-reported diagnosis of asthma. Results We found that 501 (7.8%) deliveries were to women who identified themselves as asthmatics. Of these, 15.6% reported exacerbations of their asthma symptoms during pregnancy, with the remainder reporting improvement or stabilization. There was an increased rate of preterm birth (12.9%) in the asthmatic population, compared to the non-asthmatic population (OR = 1.48, CI [1.12–1.95], P = 0.005). Asthma remained significantly associated with an increased risk of preterm birth after adjusting for maternal smoking status using logistic regression analysis (Adjusted OR 1.41, CI [1.07–1.86], P = 0.01). Women were also at increased risk of developing pre-eclampsia (OR 1.71, CI [1.09–2.67], P = 0.02) but not fetal growth restriction. Women identifying themselves as asthmatics were also more likely to deliver by caesarean section (OR 1.32, CI [1.09–1.6], P = 0.003). Conclusion These findings suggest that maternal asthma may be associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, pre-eclampsia and caesarean delivery.
Rationale of a Test Setup with a Defined COR for Extra-Discal Motion-Preserving Implants with a Low Implant Stiffness
Authors: Schilling C. , Krüger S. , Beger J. , Wing C. 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
In the current version of ASTM F2624, the center of rotation (COR) is not specified. Potentially, each device can be tested using a different COR, which subsequently makes a direct design comparison of results difficult. Four posterior dynamic stabilization (PDS) devices (Dynesys, DYN, Zimmer; DSS, Paradigm Spine; and two Aesculap implant concepts) were tested in comparison to a rigid-fixation device and to the native situation of the lumbar spine on fresh-frozen human lumbar spines (L3–L5). The instrumented level was L4–L5. The PDS systems have axial compressive stiffness values ranging from 10 N/mm to 230 N/mm and were all made compatible to connect with the pedicle-screw system. The specimens were loaded in a spinal simulator, applying pure moments for flexion/extension, lateral bending and axial rotation (+/−7.5 Nm) with a defined velocity. The COR was analyzed based on the data measured with a 3-dimensional (3D) motion-analysis system. The effect of the PDS on the location of the COR is most pronounced in the sagittal plane. In general, the higher the implant stiffness, the more the COR shifted in a posterior direction. The DYN had a similar COR to the rigid fixator. However, the PDS systems with low axial compressive stiffness values (range: 10–70 N/mm) showed very similar results on CORs, which are located in the region of the posterior border of the intervertebral disc. In the frontal and transversal plane, the COR was found to be close to the native situation for each system. Therefore, for PDS devices with low implant stiffness, the location of the COR varies only marginally and can be specified for a test setup. An initial proposal that will allow side-by-side comparison for these kinds of PDS systems is given and the feasibility of the new test setup could be proven for all three loading conditions.
Feasibility Study on Building-Derived Concrete Debris for Use in Highway Construction
Authors: Melton Jeffrey S. , Clark Corey J. , Regis Paul T. 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
The current American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials standard on crushed concrete in base applications (M 319-02) allows up to 5 % brick by mass, and more with the approval of the engineer; however, in some regions the brick content may be greater than 10 %. More than 41 states allow the use of crushed concrete in highway applications, but only a handful allow the use of building derived concrete (BDC) or mixed stream crushed concrete. Barriers to increasing the appropriate use of BDC in highway applications include a lack of data comparing BDC properties and performance to natural aggregates, as well as data that pavement engineers can use for design. This research has focused on characterizing BDC that was screened to meet New Hampshire Department of Transportation specifications. The gradation, optimum water content, unit weight, and resilient modulus were measured for the BDC and for the control materials, which were a crushed stone and a sand. The resilient modulus was measured using both a laboratory triaxial cell, and a light falling weight deflectometer (LWD) in a test pit. The resilient modulus of the BDC exceeded that of the control materials as measured in the laboratory and using the LWD. In addition, the laboratory resilient modulus showed good correlation with the LWD stiffness. These results suggest that BDC would perform as well as natural aggregates in base course applications.
Psychological and Social Factors in Undergoing Reconstructive Surgery among Individuals with Craniofacial Conditions: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Bemmels Heather , Biesecker Barbara , Schmidt Johanna L. , Krokosky Alyson , Guidotti Rick , Sutton Erica J. 
Published: February 2012

Objective Reconstructive surgery to improve psychological well-being is commonly offered to children with craniofacial conditions. Few studies have explored the challenges of reconstructive surgery beyond the physical risks: poor treatment outcomes, infection, brain damage, and death. This qualitative study aims to understand the psychological and social implications such interventions can have for individuals with craniofacial conditions. Design A total of 38 individuals between the ages of 12 and 61 with such craniofacial conditions as Sturge-Weber syndrome, Treacher Collins syndrome, Möbius syndrome, cleft lip and palate, Noonan syndrome, Crouzon syndrome, and amniotic band syndrome participated in semistructured video-recorded interviews. Participants were recruited at conferences, through study flyers, and by word of mouth. Descriptive, thematic analysis was used to identify themes related to reconstructive surgery. Results Dominant themes included undergoing surgery to reduce stigmatization, the psychological and social implications of the interventions, outcome satisfaction, parental involvement in decision making about surgery, and recommendations for parents considering surgery for their children with craniofacial conditions. Experiences with reconstructive surgery varied, with some participants expressing surgical benefits and others, disillusionment. Conclusions The range of participant attitudes and experiences reflect the complexity of reconstructive surgery. Pediatric health care teams involved in the care of children with craniofacial conditions play an important role in advising patients (and their parents) about existing treatment options. The psychological and social implications of reconstructive surgery should be relayed to help families weigh the risks and benefits of surgery in an informed and meaningful way.
Evaluation of Mandibular Hypoplasia in Patients with Hemifacial Microsomia: A Comparison between Panoramic Radiography and Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography
Authors: Takahashi-Ichikawa Naoko , Susami Takafumi , Nagahama Kouhei , Ohkubo Kazumi , Okayasu Mari , Uchino Nasuko , Uwatoko Kiwako , Saijo Hideto , Mori Yoshiyuki , Takato Tsuyoshi 
Published: February 2012

Objective To compare the accuracy of three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) and panoramic radiography in the evaluation of mandibular hypoplasia in patients with hemifacial microsomia (HFM). Design Retrospective study of imaging data. Setting Images selected from the archives of the University of Tokyo Hospital. Subjects Twenty patients with unilateral HFM who had undergone both panoramic radiography and 3D-CT in the same period. Method Mandibular deformities were classified according to the Pruzansky classification; eight patients had Grade I deformity and 12 patients had Grade II deformity. Ramus heights were measured on both panoramic radiographs and 3D-CT. Main outcome measures Magnification in panoramic radiographs and extent of mandibular asymmetry as estimated by the affected/unaffected side ratio based on two methods were examined. The Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient was used to estimate correlations between parameters. Results The magnification of ramus heights on panoramic radiographs showed large variations in Grade II patients. The affected/unaffected side ratio estimated by the two methods showed a strong correlation in Grade I patients (correlation coefficient 0.99; p < .0001). Conversely, a weak correlation was seen in Grade II patients (correlation coefficient 0.77; p = .0036), and affected/unaffected side ratios from panoramic radiographs were both over- and underestimated. Conclusions The accuracy of evaluation using panoramic radiography was fairly reliable in Grade I patients. Conversely, accuracy was poor in Grade II patients, and evaluation using 3D-CT seems preferable. The combination of two methods with careful consideration is recommended for clinical applications.
Adult Cleft Lip Repair under Local Anesthesia: An Effective Technique in Resource-Poor Settings
Authors: Eberlin Kyle R. , Vyas Raj M. , Abi-Haidar Youmna , Sethna Navil , Hamdan Usama S. 
Published: February 2012

Objective In developing countries there are many adults with unrepaired cleft lip deformities. These countries often lack the equipment and personnel to provide general anesthesia for all patients; therefore, a technique for repair under local anesthesia would be useful. Method A retrospective review was performed of 22 adolescent/adult patients on whom primary cleft lip repair was performed under local anesthesia in Bamako, Mali, in 2008 and 2009. Inclusion criteria for this technique were age greater than 12 with unilateral or bilateral deformity and ability to understand and tolerate the procedure under local anesthesia alone. Exclusion criteria included cardiopulmonary disease or inability to tolerate the procedure while awake. Demographic information and outcome data were collected including total time in the operating room, surgical time, and day of discharge. Results Twenty-two primary cleft lip repairs were completed in 12 male and 10 female patients. Mean age was 22.3 years and mean weight was 50 kg. Overall, mean total operating room time was 145 minutes. Mean operating room time was significantly ( p < .01) longer in 2008 (159 minutes) than in 2009 (114 minutes). Although mean surgical time was 110 minutes, there was a similar significant (p = .03) decrease from 2008 (119 minutes) to 2009 (91 minutes). All patients tolerated the procedure without requiring intubation or intravenous sedation, and all were discharged the same day. Conclusion Cleft lip repair in adults under local anesthesia is safe and effective. Improvements in technique and efficiency have made this valuable in developing countries.
The impacts of heavy metals on oxidative stress and growth of spring barley
Authors: Juknys Romualdas , Vitkauskaitė Giedrė , Račaitė Milda , Venclovienė Jonė 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
Oxidative stress is accepted to play a significant role in stress symptoms, caused by different stressors in a variety of organisms. In this study seedlings of spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) were exposed to a wide range of copper, zinc, chromium, nickel, lead and cadmium concentrations in order to determine the relationships between heavy metals-induced oxidative stress and plant growth inhibition. All investigated heavy metals induced an essential increase in lipid peroxidation and a reduction of dry biomass along with an increase in metal concentration in the nutrient solution. A very close and statistically significant exponential relationship between lipid peroxidation and growth inhibition was detected in this study. According to the results of analysis of variance (ANOVA), the intensity of nonspecific oxidative stress is identified as the main factor of barley growth inhibition, explaining 75% of total variance. Almost 10% of growth inhibition is attributed to the specific impact of heavy metals. The most pronounced increase of malondialdehyde content and growth inhibition was observed in Cu and Cd treatments, whereas the lowest changes in observed indicators were detected after exposure to Zn and Pb.
Abundance of Stomaphis graffii Cholod. (Hemiptera) on maple trees in Poland
Authors: Depa Łukasz 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
The paper presents data on the remarkable abundance of S. graffii in the parks of the industrially transformed region of Upper Silesia, Poland. Ten new sites and 36 colonies were recorded, while only 6 sites were known so far from the whole territory of Poland. New host plant species and new ant species tending aphids were also recorded. The conclusion is that the abundance of Stomaphis species may be underestimated due to their cryptic life mode.