bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Visualization of Stat3 and Stat5 transactivation activity with specific response element dependent reporter constructs integrated into lentiviral gene transfer vectors
Authors: Gäbel Katrin , Bednorz Nadja Lydia , Klemmt Petra , Vafaizadeh Vida , Borghouts Corina , Groner Bernd 
Published: March 2010

Abstract

Background: Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 and 5 (Stat3 and Stat5) play important roles in cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis and inflammation. They are transiently activated by ligand-receptor interactions in normal cells but are often found to be constitutively active in cancer cells. Analysis of their activation pattern is therefore important for the description of developmental processes and the understanding of cellular transformation.

Materials and methods: To visualize Stat3 and Stat5 transactivation activity in different cell types, we designed novel reporter constructs. These constructs comprise Stat3 or Stat5 specific promoter elements and reporter genes encoding β-galactosidase or fluorescent proteins. These constructs were integrated into lentiviral gene transfer vectors facilitating efficient transduction of most cell types.

Results: The lentiviral reporter constructs were used to infect different cell types and their inducibility by activated Stat3 or Stat5 was measured. The Stat3-mCherry reporter was active in transduced tumor cells, which exhibit high levels of phosphorylated Stat3 and it was inducible in HepG2 liver cells by interleukin-6 treatment. The Stat5-LacZ reporter was active in cultured cells upon hormone induction of Stat5 and in primary mammary epithelial cells transplanted into cleared fat pads of mice during late pregnancy.

Conclusion: These novel reporter constructs are valuable tools to investigate and to distinguish between Stat3 and Stat5 activity in primary cells and cancer cells. They will also be useful in the discovery of drugs targeting Stat3 or Stat5. They can also be employed to generate transgenic mice and track Stat activity during development.
Evaluation of Fiber-Reinforced Asphalt Mixtures Using Advanced Material Characterization Tests
Authors: Kaloush Kamil Elias , Biligiri Krishna Prapoorna , Zeiada Waleed Abdelaziz , Rodezno Maria Carolina , Reed Jordan Xavier 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the material properties of a conventional (control) and fiber-reinforced asphalt mixtures using advanced material characterization tests. The laboratory experimental program included triaxial shear strength, dynamic (complex) modulus, repeated load permanent deformation, fatigue, crack propagation, and indirect tensile strength tests. The data was used to compare the performance of the fiber-modified mixture to the control. The results showed that the fibers improved the mixture’s performance in several unique ways against the anticipated major pavement distresses: Permanent deformation, fatigue cracking, and thermal cracking.
Analytic Network Process-Based Approach to Evaluate the Preferable Bancassurance Alliance Model from Supervisory Authorities’ Perspectives
Authors: Wu Cheng-Ru 
Published: March 2010

AbstractThis study explores the most preferable model of financial alliance between banks and insurance companies from the point of supervisory authorities. As a decision support system, we incorporate the opinions of industry experts and apply the Analytic Network Process (ANP) technique. Based on the evaluations of the expert panel, the financial holding company option was preferred by Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission. The results find the best bancassurance alliance structure is Financial holding company and the order importance of four criteria according to priority are Sufficiency of capital, Risks, Government policies, and Alliance fruitages. This study provides an evaluation criterion for determining the optimal alliance structure for Taiwan’s emerging bancassurance sector, and the proposed evaluation criterion provides high-level management of financial institutions, government supervisors, and academicians with recommendations for future development.
Critical Readings: African American Girls and Urban Fiction
Authors: Gibson Simone 
Published: March 2010

The goal of this writing is to introduce the reader to the urban fiction genre, explore why adolescent African American girls may be engaging with novels from the genre, and how teachers may be able to use texts from the genre to increase literacy skills.إن هدف هذه الورقة أن يعرّف القارئ على نوع من الأدب وهو الأدب الخيالي المدني وتستكشف سبب المراهقات الإفريقيات قد يهتممن بالروايات من هذا النوع وكيف قد يستطيع المعلمون أن يستخدموا النصوص من هذا النوع لتحسين مهارات معرفة القراءة والكتابة.本文旨在向读者介绍城市小说这种体裁，探讨为何美国非洲裔青少年女孩会投入阅读这种体裁的小说，以及探讨教师如何可以利用这种体裁的文本来提高学生的读写能力。Ce texte a pour but de présenter au lecteur la fiction urbaine en tant que genre, d'examiner pourquoi les adolescentes afro‐américaines peuvent s'investir dans les romans à partir de ce genre, et comment les professeurs peuvent utiliser les textes de ce genre pour améliorer les compétences en littératie.Цель статьи – познакомить читателей с таким жанром литературы, как городская беллетристика, проанализировать, почему девочки‐подростки афро‐американского происхождения увлекаются такими романами и как учителя могут использовать подобные тексты, чтобы совершенствовать навыки грамотности у этих подростков.La meta de este ensayo es la de hacer conocer al lector el género novelesco urbano, explorar por qué las jóvenes africano americanas podrían estarse identificando con las novelas de dicho género, y cómo los maestros podrían usar dichos textos para mejorar las destrezas de lectura.
Patient Factors in the Selection of Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment for Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
Authors: O'Connor Kathryn , Baumhauer Judith , Houck Jeff R. 
Published: March 2010

Background: The influence of demographic, medical history, and treatment variables on the maintenance of nonoperative care or progression to operative intervention in Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfuction (PTTD) was explored. This retrospective study compared demographic, medical history and treatment variables between operative and nonoperative care in subjects with PTTD. Materials and Methods: Charts with the ICD-9 codes (726.72, 726.90) and brace distribution records for 2005 and 2006 were used to identify subjects. From these, 166 of 606 charts included documentation of PTTD. Variables were grouped into three categories including demographics (Age, body mass index, gender and working status), medical (stage, symptom duration, pain at initial evaluation, and past treatments) and treatment (initial brace, length of care episode, and brace change). Statistical comparisons between subjects treated nonoperatively and operatively were made. Significant variables were entered into a logistic regression analysis. Accuracy (sensitivity/specificity) was assessed by examining the success of predicting which subjects were treated operatively or nonoperatively. Results: Of the 166 subjects, 125 (75.4%) received nonoperative care and 41 (24.6%) operative care. Nine variables distinguished the operative from the nonoperative group ( p < 0.05): including BMI, work status, stage, symptom duration, prior orthotic use, prior injection, custom brace, brace changes, and length of care episode. The logistic regression model identified BMI, symptom duration, prior cortisone injections, and prior orthotic use as significant and resulted in a specificity of 95.4% and sensitivity of 38.2%. Conclusion: This retrospective analysis provides a patient profile of factors in the success of nonoperative care in PTTD. Level of Evidence: III, Retrospective Comparative Study
Analysis of Foot Structure in Athletes Sustaining Proximal Fifth Metatarsal Stress Fracture
Authors: Hetsroni Iftach , Nyska Meir , Ben-Sira David , Mann Gideon , Segal Ofer , Maoz Guy , Ayalon Moshe 
Published: March 2010

Background: In the past, several studies provided anecdotal descriptions of high-arched feet in individuals sustaining proximal fifth metatarsal stress fractures. This relationship has never been supported by scientific evidence. Our objective was to examine whether athletes who sustained this injury had an exceptional static foot structure or dynamic loading pattern. Materials and Methods: Ten injured professional soccer players who regained full professional activity following a unilateral proximal fifth metatarsal stress fracture and ten control soccer players were examined. Independent variables included static evaluation of foot and arch structure, followed by dynamic plantar foot pressure evaluation. Each variable was compared between injured, contra-lateral uninjured, and control feet. Results: Static measurements of foot and arch structure did not reveal differences among the groups. However, plantar pressure evaluation revealed relative unloading of the fourth metatarsal in injured and uninjured limbs of injured athletes compared with control, while the fifth metatarsal revealed pressure reduction only in the injured limbs of injured athletes. Conclusion: Athletes who sustained proximal fifth metatarsal stress fracture were not characterized by an exceptional static foot structure. Dynamically, lateral metatarsal unloading during stance may either play a role in the pathogenesis of the injury, or alternately represent an adaptive process. Clinical Relevance: Footwear fabrication for previously injured athletes should not categorically address cushioning properties designed for high-arch feet, but rather focus on individual dynamic evaluation of forefoot loading, with less attention applied to static foot and arch characteristics. Level of Evidence: III, Retrospective Comparative Study
Operative Management of Distal Tibialis Anterior Tendinopathy
Authors: Grundy Julian R. B. , O'Sullivan Richard M. , Beischer Andrew D. 
Published: March 2010

Background: The results of operative management for distal tibialis anterior tendinopathy (DTAT) without rupture have not previously been described in the literature. We present the results of 12 operative procedures. Materials and Methods: Of 40 patients diagnosed clinically and radiographically with DTAT, we reviewed 11 patients who underwent surgery for failure of nonoperative management. Assessment included pre and postoperative AOFAS midfoot scores, clinical examination and postoperative VAS pain scoring, at a mean followup of 29 months. Results: Ten women (ten feet) and one man (2 feet) underwent surgery. The mean age at surgery was 59 years. The mean duration of symptoms prior to surgery was 1 year. The mean preoperative AOFAS score was 52. Preoperative MRI showed tendinosis in two tendons and tendinosis with longitudinal split tears in ten tendons. Six of the twelve cases showed some associated degenerative changes of the midfoot. Six tendons were simply debrided and the insertion reinforced with a suture anchor. Six tendons were augmented with an extensor hallucis longus (EHL) transfer into the medial cuneiform. All patients improved postoperatively, with a mean improvement in AOFAS score of 33 and the mean postoperative pain VAS of 0.9 out of 10. Two patients underwent concomitant procedures on the same foot. Three of the six treated with EHL transfer have some symptomatic hallux interphalangeal joint extensor lag. In six cases the patient was completely satisfied. Three were satisfied with minor reservations. Of the three that were dissatisfied, two underwent subsequent surgery improving their symptoms. The third, though pain-free, was troubled by her toe-catching when walking barefoot. No patient regretted having had the surgery. Conclusion: Debridement and repair of DTAT, with EHL augmentation for greater than 50% tendon involvement, provided a high level of patient satisfaction after nonoperative management failed in this series. Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Rotational Scarf and Akin Osteotomy for Correction of Hallux Valgus Associated with Metatarsus Adductus
Authors: Larholt Jonathan , Kilmartin Timothy E. 
Published: March 2010

Background: The presence of metatarsus adductus can complicate hallux valgus surgery. It reduces the gap between the first and second metatarsal and can restrict the transposition of the first metatarsal head. It also confounds the measurement of the first second intermetatarsal angle. Materials and Methods: Twenty-seven patients, (24 female, 38 feet), of average age 59 (SD 23) with symptomatic hallux valgus associated with metatarsus adductus underwent a rotation scarf with Akin osteotomy and were reviewed at an average of 59 (SD 23) months postop. Standard radiographic assessment of the hallux valgus was undertaken as well as measurement of the metatarsus adductus using the Kilmartin angle and the intermetatarsal angle of Engel. Results: The mean preoperative intermetatarsal and hallux valgus angles were 14 degrees (SD 4) and 35 degrees (SD 7.4) respectively. The mean postoperative intermetatarsal and hallux valgus angles were 3.9 degrees (S.D. 3.3) and 13.2 degrees (SD 9.4) ( p < 0.0001). The confounding effect of metatarsus adductus was evaluated using the Kilmartin angle and the intermetatarsal angle of Engel which significantly improved with surgery ( p < 0.0001). Conclusion: The rotation scarf & Akin osteotomy was an effective procedure for correcting hallux valgus associated with metatarsus adductus. It allowed good realignment of the first MTP joint without the need for lesser metatarsal surgery to reduce the metatarsus adductus. Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Mitochondrial Reactive Oxygen Species Control T Cell Activation by Regulating IL-2 and IL-4 Expression: Mechanism of Ciprofloxacin-Mediated Immunosuppression
Authors: Kamiński Marcin M. , Sauer Sven W. , Klemke Claus-Detlev , Süss Dorothee , Okun Jürgen G. , Krammer Peter H. , Gülow Karsten 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
This article shows that T cell activation-induced expression of the cytokines IL-2 and -4 is determined by an oxidative signal originating from mitochondrial respiratory complex I. We also report that ciprofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, exerts immunosuppressive effects on human T cells suppressing this novel mechanism. Sustained treatment of preactivated primary human T cells with ciprofloxacin results in a dose-dependent inhibition of TCR-induced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and IL-2 and -4 expression. This is accompanied by the loss of mitochondrial DNA and a resulting decrease in activity of the complex I. Consequently, using a complex I inhibitor or small interfering RNA-mediated downregulation of the complex I chaperone NDUFAF1, we demonstrate that TCR-triggered ROS generation by complex I is indispensable for activation-induced IL-2 and -4 expression and secretion in resting and preactivated human T cells. This oxidative signal (H2O2) synergizes with Ca2+ influx for IL-2/IL-4 expression and facilitates induction of the transcription factors NF-κB and AP-1. Moreover, using T cells isolated from patients with atopic dermatitis, we show that inhibition of complex I-mediated ROS generation blocks disease-associated spontaneous hyperexpression and TCR-induced expression of IL-4. Prolonged ciprofloxacin treatment of T cells from patients with atopic dermatitis also blocks activation-induced expression and secretion of IL-4. Thus, our work shows that the activation phenotype of T cells is controlled by a mitochondrial complex I-originated oxidative signal.
CCR5 Dictates the Equilibrium of Proinflammatory IL-17+ and Regulatory Foxp3+ T Cells in Fungal Infection
Authors: Kroetz Danielle N. , Deepe George S. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
CCR5 is a chemotactic mediator for inflammatory cells as well as regulatory T cells (Tregs). In this study, we investigated the role of CCR5 during infection with the fungal pathogen Histoplasma capsulatum. Mice lacking CCR5 or treated with an mAb to CCL4 had impaired infiltration of inflammatory cells to the lungs. Despite displaying an elevated fungal burden prior to activation of an adaptive immune response, CCL4-neutralized and CCR5−/− mice resolved infection more efficiently than controls. Accelerated fungal clearance was associated with a reduced number of Tregs in the lungs. Impaired trafficking was not solely responsible for the paucity of Tregs in the lungs, as proliferation of both CD4+ T cells and Tregs was diminished in CCR5−/− lungs during infection. A reduced number of Tregs in CCR5−/− lungs was associated with a selective increase of Th17 cytokines, and neutralization of IL-17 increased Treg proliferation and consequently fungal burden in CCR5−/− mice. Thus, CCR5 dictates pathogen persistence by tightly regulating the balance between Treg and Th17 cells in H. capsulatum infection.
Use of a Standardized Patient Exercise to Assess Core Competencies During Fellowship Training
Authors: Barry Curtis T. , Avissar Uri , Asebrook Maureen , Sostok Michael A. , Sherman Kenneth E. , Zucker Stephen D. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract

Background
The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education requires fellows in many specialties to demonstrate attainment of 6 core competencies, yet relatively few validated assessment tools currently exist. We present our initial experience with the design and implementation of a standardized patient (SP) exercise during gastroenterology fellowship that facilitates appraisal of all core clinical competencies.

Methods
Fellows evaluated an SP trained to portray an individual referred for evaluation of abnormal liver tests. The encounters were independently graded by the SP and a faculty preceptor for patient care, professionalism, and interpersonal and communication skills using quantitative checklist tools. Trainees' consultation notes were scored using predefined key elements (medical knowledge) and subjected to a coding audit (systems-based practice). Practice-based learning and improvement was addressed via verbal feedback from the SP and self-assessment of the videotaped encounter.

Results
Six trainees completed the exercise. Second-year fellows received significantly higher scores in medical knowledge (55.0 ± 4.2 [standard deviation], P  =  .05) and patient care skills (19.5 ± 0.7, P  =  .04) by a faculty evaluator as compared with first-year trainees (46.2 ± 2.3 and 14.7 ± 1.5, respectively). Scores correlated by Spearman rank (0.82, P  =  .03) with the results of the Gastroenterology Training Examination. Ratings of the fellows by the SP did not differ by level of training, nor did they correlate with faculty scores. Fellows viewed the exercise favorably, with most indicating they would alter their practice based on the experience.

Conclusions
An SP exercise is an efficient and effective tool for assessing core clinical competencies during fellowship training.
Strategies for Effective On-Call Supervision for Internal Medicine Residents: The Superb/Safety Model
Authors: Farnan Jeanne M. , Johnson Julie K. , Meltzer David O. , Harris Ilene , Humphrey Holly J. , Schwartz Alan , Arora Vineet M. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract

Background
Supervision is central to resident education and patient safety, yet there is little published evidence to describe a framework for clinical supervision. The aim of this study was to describe supervision strategies for on-call internal medicine residents.

Methods
Between January and November 2006, internal medicine residents and attending physicians at a single hospital were interviewed within 1 week of their final call on the general medicine rotation. Appreciative inquiry and critical incident technique were used to elicit perspectives on ideal and suboptimal supervision practices. A representative portion of transcripts were analyzed using an inductive approach to develop a coding scheme that was then applied to the entire set of transcripts. All discrepancies were resolved via discussion until consensus was achieved.

Results
Forty-four of 50 (88%) attending physicians and 46 of 50 (92%) eligible residents completed an interview. Qualitative analysis revealed a bidirectional model of suggested supervisory strategies, the “SUPERB/SAFETY” model; an interrater reliability of 0.70 was achieved. Suggestions for attending physicians providing supervision included setting expectations, recognizing uncertainty, planning communication, having easy availability, reassuring residents, balancing supervision, and having autonomy. Suggested resident strategies for seeking supervision from attending physicians included seeking input early, contacting for active clinical decisions or feeling uncertain, end of life issues, transitions in care, or help with systems issues. Common themes suggested by trainees and attending physicians included easy availability and preservation of resident decision-making autonomy.

Discussion
Residents and attending physicians have explicit expectations for optimal supervision. The SUPERB/SAFETY model of supervision may be an effective resource to enhance the clinical supervision of residents.
Implementation and Initial Evaluation of an Academic Career Development Curriculum for Fellows
Authors: Domino Steven E. , Reynolds R. Kevin 
Published: March 2010

Abstract

Objective
To develop and evaluate an academic career development curriculum.

Methods
We anonymously surveyed 25 fellows and advanced trainees in 9 obstetrics and gynecology subspecialty fellowships prior to the start of an academic career development common curriculum in 2007. Results were compared with responses from the same survey given at the completion of the 2-year program to guide and improve the curriculum. Fourteen surveys were completed for both administrations.

Results
Most fellows expressed the desire to pursue academic careers and planned to present and publish research from their fellowship in both surveys. After completing the curriculum, fellows reported overall improvement in self-appraised confidence for speaking at national meetings and preparing a research grant. The most substantial change in self-assessment was increased awareness and utilization of departmental research support personnel. Elements of training that showed improvement but were not main topics of core sessions included the frequency of constructive feedback from mentors and peers, and frequency of discussion of research ethics.

Conclusion
Instituting an academic career development curriculum for obstetrics and gynecology fellows was associated with increased self-appraised confidence in specific academic skills as assessed by anonymous survey.
Developing a Predictive Model to Assess Applicants to an Internal Medicine Residency
Authors: Neely David , Feinglass Joseph , Wallace Warren H. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract

Background
Residency programs strive to accurately assess applicants' qualifications and predict future performance. However, there is little evidence-based guidance on how to do this. The aim of this study was to design an algorithm for ranking applicants to an internal medicine residency program.

Methods
Ratings of overall performance in residency were compared to application characteristics of 230 graduating residents from 2000–2005. We analyzed 5 characteristics of the application: medical school, overall medical school performance, performance in junior medicine clerkship, United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 score, and interview ratings. Using bivariate correlations and multiple regression analysis, we calculated the association of each characteristic with mean performance ratings during residency.

Results
In multiple regression analysis, the most significant application factors (r2  =  0.22) were the quality of the medical school and the applicant's overall performance in medical school (P &lt; .001).

Conclusion
This data has allowed the creation of a weighted algorithm to rank applicants that uses 4 application factors—school quality, overall medical school performance, medicine performance, and USMLE Step 1 score.