bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Acyl peptide hydrolase degrades monomeric and oligomeric amyloid-beta peptide
Authors: Yamin Rina , Zhao Cheng , O'Connor Peter B , McKee Ann C , Abraham Carmela R 
Published: August 2009

Abstract

Background
The abnormal accumulation of amyloid-beta peptide is believed to cause malfunctioning of neurons in the Alzheimer's disease brain. Amyloid-beta exists in different assembly forms in the aging mammalian brain including monomers, oligomers, and aggregates, and in senile plaques, fibrils. Recent findings suggest that soluble amyloid-beta oligomers may represent the primary pathological species in Alzheimer's disease and the most toxic form that impairs synaptic and thus neuronal function. We previously reported the isolation of a novel amyloid-beta-degrading enzyme, acyl peptide hydrolase, a serine protease that degrades amyloid-beta, and is different in structure and activity from other amyloid-beta-degrading enzymes.

Results
Here we report the further characterization of acyl peptide hydrolase activity using mass spectrometry. Acyl peptide hydrolase cleaves the amyloid-beta peptide at amino acids 13, 14 and 19. In addition, by real-time PCR we found elevated acyl peptide hydrolase expression in brain areas rich in amyloid plaques suggesting that this enzyme's levels are responsive to increases in amyloid-beta levels. Lastly, tissue culture experiments using transfected CHO cells expressing APP751 bearing the V717F mutation indicate that acyl peptide hydrolase preferentially degrades dimeric and trimeric forms of amyloid-beta.

Conclusion
These data suggest that acyl peptide hydrolase is involved in the degradation of oligomeric amyloid-beta, an activity that, if induced, might present a new tool for therapy aimed at reducing neurodegeneration in the Alzheimer's brain.
A gene expression profile for detection of sufficient tumour cells in breast tumour tissue: microarray diagnosis eligibility
Authors: Roepman Paul , Schuurman Arenda , Delahaye Leonie JMJ , Witteveen Anke T , Floore Arno N , Glas Annuska M 
Published: August 2009

Abstract

Background
Microarray diagnostics of tumour samples is based on measurement of prognostic and/or predictive gene expression profiles. Typically, diagnostic profiles have been developed using bulk tumour samples with a sufficient amount of tumour cells (usually >50%). Consequentially, a diagnostic results depends on the minimal percentage of tumour cells within a sample. Currently, tumour cell percentage is assessed by conventional histopathological review. However, even for experienced pathologists, such scoring remains subjective and time consuming and can lead to ambiguous results.

Methods
In this study we investigated whether we could use transcriptional activity of a specific set of genes instead of histopathological review to identify samples with sufficient tumour cell content. Genome-wide gene expression measurements were used to develop a transcriptional gene profile that could accurately assess a sample's tumour cell percentage.

Results
Supervised analysis across 165 breast tumour samples resulted in the identification of a set of 13 genes which expression correlated with presence of tumour cells. The developed gene profile showed a high performance (AUC 0.92) for identification of samples that are suitable for microarray diagnostics. Validation on 238 additional breast tumour samples indicated a robust performance for correct classification with an overall accuracy of 91 percent and a kappa score of 0.63 (95%CI 0.47–0.73).

Conclusion
The developed 13-gene profile provides an objective tool for assessment whether a breast cancer sample contains sufficient tumour cells for microarray diagnostics. It will improve the efficiency and throughput for diagnostic gene expression profiling as it no longer requires histopathological analysis for initial tumour percentage scoring. Such profile will also be very use useful for assessment of tumour cell percentage in biopsies where conventional histopathology is difficult, such as fine needle aspirates.
Traditional Chinese medicines in the treatment of hepatocellular cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Ping , Dugoua Jean Jacques , Eyawo Oghenowede , Mills Edward J 
Published: August 2009

Abstract

Background
Liver cancer is a common malignancy with a high mortality rate. Given the poor prognosis associated with this cancer, many patients seek additional therapies that may improve quality of life or survival. Several Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM) have been evaluated in clinical trials, but little is known about them outside of China.

Methods
We searched independently and in duplicate 8 electronic databases, including 2 Chinese language databases, until February 2009. We included any randomized clinical trials (RCT) evaluating a TCM oral preparation for the treatment of hepatocellular cancers. We abstracted data on survival, tumor response, and performance scores. We conducted a random-effects meta-analysis and applied a meta-regression analysis.

Results
We included 45 RCTs (n = 3,236). All studies employed an active control group. In general, the reporting of methodological issues was poor. We analyzed data from 37 trials reporting on complete response effects score (Relative Risk [RR] of 1.26 (95 CI, 1.04–1.52, P = 0.01, I2 = 0%, P = 0.99). Products containing ginseng, astragalus and mylabris had a larger treatment effect (OR 1.34, 95% CI, 1.04–1.71, P = 0.01) than the pooled broad estimate, also the case for astragalus-based treatments (OR 1.35, 95% CI, 1.001–1.80. P = 0.048). We examined survival rates and pooled 15 studies reporting on 6 month outcomes (RR 1.10, 95% CI, 1.04–1.15, P = < 0.0001, I2 = 0%, P = 0.60). This effect was consistent at other prospective dates, including 12 months (22 trials, RR 1.26, 95% CI, 1.17–1.36, P = < 0.0001, I2 = 7%, P = 0.36), 24 months (15 trials, 1.72, 95% CI, 1.40–2.03, P = < 0.0001, I2 = 0%, P = 0.75); and, at 36 months (8 trials, RR 2.40, 95% CI, 1.65–3.49, P = < 0.0001, I2 = 0%, P = 0.62).

Limitations
All included trials were conducted in China where emerging evidence suggests many RCTs are not, in fact, randomized. Publication bias may exist, favouring positive reports.

Conclusion
Our meta-analysis displays compelling evidence of effectiveness for hepatocellular cancers that should be evaluated in high-quality and transparent clinical trials.
The free moment in walking and its change with foot rotation angle
Authors: Almosnino Sivan , Kajaks Tara , Costigan Patrick A 
Published: August 2009

Abstract

Background
This investigation characterized the time-history pattern of the free moment (FM) during walking and, additionally, assessed whether walking with either an internally or externally rotated foot position altered the FM's time-history.

Methods
Force plate and foot kinematic data were acquired simultaneously for 11 healthy subjects (6 males, 5 females) while walking at their self-selected comfortable speed in 3 foot rotation conditions (normal, internal and external). The FM was calculated and normalized by the product of each participant's body weight and height prior to extraction of peak FM, occurrence of peak FM in stance and net relative impulse. Differences in these values across foot rotation conditions were assessed using separate one-way, repeated measures analysis of variance and subsequent pair-wise comparisons.

Results
The average FM pattern during normal walking exhibits a biphasic shape: resisting inward rotation during approximately the first half of stance and outward rotation during the latter part of stance. While no differences in peak FM or net relative impulse were observed between the internal foot rotation condition and normal walking, the external foot rotation condition resulted in significantly greater peak FM and relative net impulse in comparison to normal walking.

Conclusion
The differences in selected FM variables between normal walking and the external foot rotation condition are attributable to individual subject response to walking with an externally rotated foot. In this condition, some subjects displayed a FM pattern that was similar to that recorded during normal walking, while others displayed markedly larger FM patterns that are comparable in magnitude to those reported for running. The larger FM values in these latter subjects are speculated to be a result of excessive transverse plane body movements. Whilst further investigation is warranted regarding the FM time-history characteristics during walking, our results indicate that the FM may provide useful information in assessment of gait.
Functional constipation in children: does maternal personality matter?
Authors: Farnam Alireza , Rafeey Mandana , Farhang Sara , Khodjastejafari Saeedeh 
Published: August 2009

Abstract

Aim
To identify personality dimensions of mothers with a constipated child and compare it with those mothers of children without defecation problems.

Methods
We compared mothers of 150 children with functional constipation to mothers of 150 children with no such a problem attending to pediatric hospital of Tabriz University of medical sciences. Personality dimensions were evaluated by NEO five factor inventory after excluding any psychiatric disorders by an interview.

Results
Mean age (SD) was 28.8(18.6) months in constipated children and 20.0(19.3) months in controls, 54.6% of constipated children and 56.7% of controls were male. Mean age (SD) was 30.9(7.1) years in mothers of children with functional constipation and 30.1(7.6) years in controls.
Mothers of children with functional constipation scored lower in neuroticism and scored higher in extraversion, conscientiousness and agreeableness. Conscientiousness was the dominant dimension of personality in both groups.

Conclusion
Our results suggest the maternal personality as a factor to directly influence toileting behavior of their children resulting in functional constipation.
Brewing complications: the effect of acute ethanol exposure on wound healing
Authors: Radek Katherine A , Ranzer Matthew J , DiPietro Luisa A 
Published: August 2009

Abstract
Review on how acute ethanol exposure causes immediate and long-term impairment of wound healing and reduces wound angiogenesis.
Ethanol consumption is linked to a higher incidence of traumatic wounds and increases the risk for morbidity and mortality following surgical or traumatic injury. One of the most profound effects of acute ethanol exposure on wound healing occurs during the inflammatory response, and altered cytokine production is a primary component. Acute ethanol exposure also impairs the proliferative response during healing, causing delays in epithelial coverage, collagen synthesis, and blood vessel regrowth. The accumulated data support the paradigm that acute ethanol intoxication prior to injury significantly diminishes a patient’s ability to heal efficiently.
From cultural cohesion to rules and competition: the trajectory of senior management culture in English NHS hospitals, 2001–2008
Authors: Mannion Russell , Harrison Stephen , Jacobs Rowena , Konteh Frederick , Walshe Kieran , Davies Huw TO 
Published: August 2009

Summary Objectives To assess changes in senior management culture in English NHS hospitals between 2001 and 2008. Design Longitudinal study comprising cross-sectional surveys of board levels managers at three time-points using a validated culture measurement instrument – the Competing Values Framework. Setting English NHS hospital trusts. Main outcomes There has been a decline in ‘Clan’ and an increase in more competitive ‘Rational’ cultures among senior management teams in NHS hospital trusts during the period 2001–2008. Conclusions Government policy for the NHS has espoused the desirability of competition, particularly since 2002. Our data suggest that corresponding changes in the cultures of senior management teams in NHS hospital trusts is beginning to occur, with the expectation that these organizations will pursue more competitive strategies.
Decreased placental oxygenation capacity in pre-eclampsia: clinical application of a novel index of placental function preformed at the time of delivery
Authors: Matsuo Koji , Malinow Andrew M. , Harman Chris R. , Baschat Ahmet A. 
Published: August 2009

Abstract

Objective: We have previously described placental oxygenation capacity as an index of placental function. The aim of this study was to utilize this test to evaluate placental gas exchange capacity in pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction (FGR).

Study design: Two nested case-control studies were conducted between: (i) pre-eclamptic appropriate-for-gestational-age fetus (AGA) and non-pre-eclamptic AGA; and (ii) pre-eclamptic FGR and non-pre-eclamptic FGR based on gestational age match. Umbilical A-V gas differences were compared between groups.

Results: Pre-eclamptic AGA was associated with smaller A-V pO2 and A-V pCO2 differences compared to non-pre-eclampsia (A-V pO2, 7.1±3.8 mm Hg vs. 11.3±5.9 mm Hg, P=0.001; A-V pCO2, 7.8±5.7 mm Hg vs. 10.7± 5.9 mm Hg, P=0.01). Pre-eclamptic FGR was associated with smaller A-V pO2 and A-V pCO2 differences compared to non-pre-eclampsia (A-V pO2, 6.6±3.1 mm Hg vs. 10.8±8.1 mm Hg, P<0.001; 6.7±4.5 mm Hg vs. 10.9±10.3 mm Hg, P=0.044). Pre-eclamptic FGR also had significantly lower venous pO2 but not arterial pO2 (Venous pO2, 20.3±6.3 mm Hg vs. 25.4±11.9 mm Hg, P=0.003).

Conclusion: Pre-eclampsia decreases the placental oxygenation capacity as measured by the umbilical arterial-venous oxygen difference.
Guidelines on CMV congenital infection
Authors: Coll Oriol , Benoist Guillaume , Ville Yves , Weisman Leonard E. , Botet Francesc , Maurizio M. Anceschi the WAPM Perinatal Infections Working Group: , Greenough Anne , Gibbs Ronald S. , Carbonell-Estrany (coordinator) Xavier 
Published: August 2009

AbstractCongenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection occurs in 0.6–0.7% of all newborns and is the most prevalent infection-related cause of congenital neurological handicap. Vertical transmission occurs in around 30% of cases, but the fetus is not always affected. Symptomatic newborns at birth have a much higher risk of suffering severe neurological sequelae. Detection of specific IgG and IgM and IgG avidity seem to be the most reliable tests to identify a primary infection but interpretation in a clinical context may be difficult. If a seroconversion is documented or a fetal infection is suspected by ultrasound markers, an amniocentesis should be performed to confirm a vertical transmission. In the absence of a confirmed fetal infection with fetal structural anomalies, a pregnancy termination should be discouraged. Fetal prognosis is mainly correlated to the presence of brain damage. Despite promising results with the use of antiviral drugs and CMV hyperimmune globulin (HIG), results have to be interpreted with caution. Pregnant women should not be systematically tested for CMV during pregnancy. Managing CMV screening should be restricted to pregnancies where a primary infection is suspected or among women at high risk. The magnitude of congenital CMV disease and the value of interventions to prevent its transmission or to decrease the sequelae need to be established before implementing public health interventions. In this paper, aspects of CMV infection in the pregnant woman and her infant are reviewed.
In-Vitro Modeling of the Dynamic Forces in the Femoropopliteal Artery
Authors: Nikanorov Alexander , Mach Albert J. , Lenaway Lisa , Zhao Hugh , Schwartz Lewis B. 
Published: August 2009

Abstract
The use of intravascular stents in the femoropopliteal artery (FPA) continues to be controversial due to the potential fractures in the dynamic environment. The purpose of this study was to (1) develop a representative in-vitro model that simulates physiological motion of the FPA during knee and hip flexion and (2) use the model to characterize the types and ranges of stent distortion produced by extremity movement. This model eliminates inconsistencies often observed in cadaveric models and clinical subjects due to individual anatomical differences, and allows testing with large sample sizes in a controlled environment for variable (tubing length, material, diameter, and thickness) modification. A comparative evaluation of axial mechanical property and elasticity was conducted between the tubing intended to simulate arteries and the ex-vivo porcine carotid arteries, favoring the selection of silicone tubing. The model was assessed for its unstented and stented arterial bending and axial compression under three physiological motions: straight leg, walking (knee/hip flexion 70°/20°), and sitting/stair climbing (knee/hip flexion 90°/90°). Self-expanding nitinol stents implanted in the simulated mid-superficial femoral artery and popliteal artery (PA) of the model exhibit axial compression of 4.5±0.3 % and 7±0.3 % (knee/hip flexion 70°/20°), and 8.4±0.7 % and 8±0.2 % (knee/hip flexion 90°/90°). Stents implanted in the simulated PA exhibit bending of 40° and 74° from knee/hip angle changes to 70°/20° and to 90°/90°, respectively. The model demonstrated stent bending and compression as previously observed in cadaver studies. Additional analysis of stent motion (torsion, localized bending, radial compression) may be evaluated with more advanced imaging techniques and additional model development. The data generated in these analyses could support appropriate modes and parameters for stent fatigue testing, and better understanding of vascular device performance in the dynamic FPA.
Comparison of Linear Visco-Elastic Complex Modulus and Yield Shear Stress in DSR Moisture Damage Test
Authors: Cho Dong-Woo , Lee Tai Sik , Lee SangYum , Bahia Hussain U. 
Published: August 2009

Abstract
Moisture damage tormenting asphalt pavement materials is a very complex interaction occurring between asphalt binder, its aggregate, and water. To estimate or index the moisture sensitivity of the asphalt pavement materials, compacted asphalt mixtures are commonly used in mechanical tests providing a strength-related parameter for evaluating moisture susceptibility. The compacted mixture structures, however, can cause a problem that fundamental properties between asphalt binder and its aggregate are easily stumbled behind the complicated aggregates-asphalt-air voids structure. In order to help resolve this problem and find the fundamental properties such as adhesion or cohesion strength, dynamic shear rheometer and rock disks were used in a modification way of the standard asphalt binder testing protocol, and functional parameters such as yield shear stress (YSS) and wet to dry (W/D) YSS ratio were found in the previous research. A protocol more advanced and in more detail than the previous research is suggested in this subsequent study. In addition, the relative independence of the YSS and W/D YSS ratio is proven upon heating effects, and the sensitivity of the parameters to material-specific is also reaffirmed, in more tests performed for this research. For this proving process, rheological values measured per heating cycle are compared and plotted. The results, analyzed with more data than measured in the previous research, indicate that YSS and W/D YSS ratio, even in the expanded data set, can be alternative parameters to evaluate moisture damage.
Mixed Micellization of Alkylbenzene Sulfonate Gemini Surfactant Ia and Nonionic Surfactant Triton X-100 in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Du Xigang , Lu Yao , Wu Huijue 
Published: August 2009

AbstractThe interaction between the alkylbenzene sulfonate Gemini surfactant Ia and the conventional nonionic surfactant Triton X-100 was investigated. The critical micelle concentrations of different mixtures were measured by surface tension measurement in aqueous solution at 298 K. The results suggested that the critical micelle concentration of different mixtures at any mole ratio was lower than that of either pure Ia or Triton X-100 surfactant, indicating synergetic behavior. And the interaction parameter (ßvalues) for the mixed micelles were negative, showing attractive interaction between these surfactant molecules. Furthermore, the micelle aggregation number (N) was measured using a steady state fluorescence quenching method. TheNvalues of the mixed surfactant system were larger than that of pure Ia but lower than pure Triton X-100 at all mole ratios. And the micropolarity of micelles becomes small gradually with the increase of the mole ratio of the Gemini surfactant Ia.
Solution Thermodynamics of some Imidazolium-based Ionic Liquids in Water and Aliphatic Alcohols
Authors: Zhao Yang , Chen Zhenhua , Wang Jianji , Zhuo Kelei 
Published: August 2009

Abstract
The solubilities of imidazolium-based ionic liquids [C4mim][PF6], [C6mim][PF6] and [C6mim][BF4] in water, ethanol, n-propanol, n-butanol, iso-butanol and n-pentanol have been determined from 278.15 K to 323.15 K with 5.0 K intervals by using UV-vis spectroscopy. It is shown that the characteristics of ionic liquids and solvents have significant effect on the solubilities. An increase in the alkyl chain length of the alcohol resulted in a decrease in the solubility. By increasing the alkyl chain length on the cation of the ionic liquids, the solubility increased in the alcohols but decreased in water. The nature of anion was shown to have a great impact on the solubility both in the alcohols and in water. The solution thermodynamic parameters of the ionic liquids and the thermodynamic parameters of transfer for the ionic liquids from water to the alcohols were calculated from the solubility data at different temperatures. The results has been discussed from the differences in the ionic liquid–ionic liquid, ionic liquid–water and ionic liquid–alcohol interactions.
An Examination of Factors Related to Work‐to‐family Conflict among Employed Men and Women in Japan
Authors: Kato Michiko , Yamazaki Yoshihiko 
Published: August 2009

An Examination of Factors Related to Work‐to‐family Conflict among Employed Men and Women in Japan: Michiko Kato, et al. Department of Health Sociology, Division of Health Sciences and Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of TokyoObjectivesThe aims of this study of Japanese married employees were: 1) to examine the relationship between work‐related factors and work‐to‐family conflict (WFC); 2) to examine the relationship between WFC and fatigue and depression; and 3) to explore the role of family togetherness in a path between WFC and health.MethodsA cross‐sectional survey was conducted among employees belonging to a labor union federation of the chemical industry. All analyses were conducted by subgroup according to gender and parental status.ResultsData was collected from 12 companies located in the Tokyo metropolitan area from September to October 2005. The data of 961 married employees were analyzed. The main findings by regression analyses were: 1) high job demands, low job control, and unsupportive work‐family culture were associated with high level of WFC; 2) WFC was positively associated with fatigue and depression regardless of gender and parental status; and 3) maintaining family togetherness was slightly, yet significantly associated with fatigue in the father group.ConclusionsWFC was unfavorably related to fatigue and depression in both genders regardless of parental status, and plays a role linking unfavorable work situations and health. As possible work‐related factors of WFC, the data indicate not only individual workplace variables but also an organizational support. Additionally, maintaining family togetherness appears to benefit fathers by preventing fatigue. Strategies for reduction of WFC are therefore necessary to promote health among married workers of both genders.