bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Quantitative 1-Step DNA Methylation Analysis with Native Genomic DNA as Template
Authors: von Kanel Thomas , Gerber Dominik , Schaller André , Baumer Alessandra , Wey Eva , Jackson Christopher B , Gisler Franziska M , Heinimann Karl , Gallati Sabina 
Published: May 2010

Abstract
Background: DNA methylation analysis currently requires complex multistep procedures based on bisulfite conversion of unmethylated cytosines or on methylation-sensitive endonucleases. To facilitate DNA methylation analysis, we have developed a quantitative 1-step assay for DNA methylation analysis.
Methods: The assay is based on combining methylation-sensitive FastDigest® endonuclease digestion and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) in a single reaction. The first step consists of DNA digestion, followed by endonuclease inactivation and qPCR. The degree of DNA methylation is evaluated by comparing the quantification cycles of a reaction containing a methylation-sensitive endonuclease with the reaction of a sham mixture containing no endonuclease. Control reactions interrogating an unmethylated locus allow the detection and correction of artifacts caused by endonuclease inhibitors, while simultaneously permitting copy number assessment of the locus of interest.
Results: With our novel approach, we correctly diagnosed the imprinting disorders Prader–Willi syndrome and Angelman syndrome in 35 individuals by measuring methylation levels and copy numbers for the SNRPN (small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide N) promoter. We also demonstrated that the proposed correction model significantly (P &lt; 0.05) increases the assay’s accuracy with low-quality DNA, allowing analysis of DNA samples with decreased digestibility, as is often the case in retrospective studies.
Conclusions: Our novel DNA methylation assay reduces both the hands-on time and errors caused by handling and pipetting and allows methylation analyses to be completed within 90 min after DNA extraction. Combined with its precision and reliability, these features make the assay well suited for diagnostic procedures as well as high-throughput analyses.
Online High-Flow Peptide Immunoaffinity Enrichment and Nanoflow LC-MS/MS: Assay Development for Total Salivary Pepsin/Pepsinogen
Authors: Neubert Hendrik , Gale Jeremy , Muirhead David 
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND
Detection limit challenges associated with measuring low-abundance protein biomarkers can be addressed with hybrid immunoaffinity–mass spectrometric assays, such as antipeptide antibody capture followed by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Popular assay formats use magnetic bead–based immunoaffinity enrichment and nanoflow LC-MS/MS or high-flow immunoaffinity chromatography coupled online to conventional LC-MS/MS. As a proof of principle, we describe a novel online immunoaffinity LC-MS/MS configuration that combines high-flow peptide immunoaffinity enrichment and nanoflow LC-MS/MS.

METHODS
We configured and validated an assay for the measurement of total pepsin/pepsinogen from human saliva that uses a pepsinogen standard. Saliva was heat-inactivated to quench residual enzymatic activity and then digested with endoproteinase AspN. Online immunoaffinity enrichment using an antipeptide antibody directed against the pepsin C-terminal sequence, DRANNQVGLAPVA, was linked to nanoflow liquid chromatography and selected reaction monitoring mass spectrometry. We used the assay to measure pepsin/pepsinogen concentrations in human saliva from presumed healthy volunteers.

RESULTS
Heat inactivation at 100 °C for 25 min stabilized the target peptide. The final assay had &lt;15% interassay relative error and &lt;15% interassay CV across a range of 4.08–2980 pmol/L human pepsinogen (0.165–120 μg/L). Low but quantifiable signals were observed in some samples from presumed normal healthy volunteers ranging from 4.3 to 16.6 pmol/L (0.17–0.67 μg/L) total salivary pepsin/pepsinogen.

CONCLUSIONS
This assay approach provides a high-sensitivity platform for protein bioanalysis in the low picomolar range. It bears the potential to deliver additional data on the salivary occurrence of pepsin/pepsinogen with greater confidence than previously.
Further Results on Attenuation of Neutron Embrittlement Effects in a Simulated RPV Wall
Authors: Server William , Brumovský Milan , Kytka Milos , Soneda Naoki , Spanner Jack 
Published: May 2010

Abstract
A carefully designed irradiation experiment was conducted in which a 190 mm thick reactor pressure vessel (RPV) wall has been simulated using nineteen 10 mm thick slices, 18 of which are made from key RPV steels, and irradiated under test reactor conditions to investigate the through-wall attenuation of neutron embrittlement. Preliminary results for two of the irradiated materials (a low copper content plate and a high copper content Linde 80 flux weld) were reported earlier. The third irradiated RPV steel was the international reference steel designated JRQ, and this paper describes the results for this steel along with updated analyses for the other two steels. Comparisons of predicted attenuation changes in toughness properties with measured fracture toughness and Charpy V-notch results are presented for all three RPV steels. The predictions of through-wall attenuation follow the practice defined in ASTM E900-02 and Regulatory Guide 1.99, Revision 2, in which the attenuation of high energy neutron fluence (E&gt;1 MeV) is projected based upon an approximate displacements per atom (dpa) change through the wall thickness. The resultant degree of material damage using this dpa-based fluence change is estimated using current embrittlement correlation models.
Test Method for Determining the Efflorescence Potential of Masonry Materials Based on Soluble Salt Content
Authors: Sanders John P. , Brosnan Denis A. 
Published: May 2010

Abstract
A single test method that is capable of determining the efflorescence potential for all materials in a masonry system is needed. The need for preconstruction testing is referenced in ASTM C1400-1—“Standard Guide for Reduction of Efflorescence Potential in New Masonry Walls”—but the standard acknowledges that there is not a suitable test method for all masonry materials. In the past, soluble salt measurements have been used to quantitatively access the efflorescence potential of masonry materials. To determine the water-soluble salt content of masonry materials, a simple leaching procedure was developed to remove the salts followed by quantification of the water-soluble salt content by ion chromatography. A series of modified efflorescence tests using salt solutions and real masonry materials has been used to determine the significance of water-soluble salt measurements. A clear threshold for soluble sulfate content that indicates a high potential for the development of visible efflorescence has been identified. Sulfate salts are the most common water-soluble compounds associated with efflorescence complaints.
Resistance of protective gloves materials to puncture by medical needles
Authors: Nguyen C. Thang , Dolez Patricia I. , Vu-Khanh Toan , Gauvin Chantal , Lara Jaime 
Published: May 2010

Abstract
The accidental injury by medical needles, even when wearing personal protective clothing, is a growing concern for an increasing number of workers. Therefore, an effort has been undertaken to study the interaction of medical needles with materials relevant to protective gloves. A first phase of the project had investigated the influence of needle characteristics on the resistance to puncture by medical needles of selected materials relevant to protective gloves. A step-by-step analysis of the mechanism of puncture by medical needles was proposed. This second paper studies the effect of sample thickness and test conditions on the resistance to needle puncture of various types of materials relevant to protective gloves. For elastomers and fabric-reinforced elastomers, the influence of the sample thickness and needle penetration angle can be described using the principles of fracture mechanics; the non-linear relationship between puncture force and sample thickness is attributed to the elliptical shape of the fracture surface, and the effect of the needle penetration angle on puncture force is reduced to a master curve when expressed in terms of the effective sample penetration thickness. On the other hand, more textile-based materials behave as discrete media. The study of the effect of probe displacement rate and temperature seems to indicate that the needle puncture process in all studied materials is of viscoelastic nature. It was also observed that the time-temperature superposition principle applies to neoprene resistance to medical needles. These results set the basis for the design of a test method relative to the resistance of materials to medical needles. It also provides information for the development of protective gloves with improved resistance to needlesticks.
Comparative Study on Recovered Binder Properties Using Three Asphalt Emulsion Recovery Methods
Authors: Prapaitrakul Nikornpon , Han Rongbin , Jin Xin , Martin Amy Epps , Glover Charles J. 
Published: May 2010

Abstract
Determining the properties of residual binders is important to the effective use of asphalt emulsion chip seals. Yet, the effect of laboratory methods on recovered binder properties used to simulate residual binders in the field is not well understood. In this research, the residues of five asphalt emulsions were compared after recovery by three methods, a Hot Oven procedure (similar to ASTM D244-04), a Stirred-Can procedure (as reported in TXDOT 0-1710), and a Warm Oven method (ASTM D7497-09). The recovered binders were tested with size exclusion chromatography (SEC) to assess the presence of residual moisture. Properties of the original base binders and the corresponding recovered binders were compared using dynamic shear rheometry and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. The SEC results showed no residual water in any of the recovered samples, except the samples from Warm Oven recovery, which showed a small detectable amount of residual moisture. The results from statistical analysis of binder properties using ANOVA plus Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference test suggest that recovered binders from the Warm Oven method are statistically different from their base binders. Nevertheless, considering each of the residues recovered from the three methods in paired comparisons with the other residues, none is statistically different from the others.
Development of a Retrospective Job Exposure Matrix for PCB‐exposed Workers in Capacitor Manufacturing
Authors: Hopf Nancy B. , Waters Martha A. , Ruder Avima M. , Prince Mary M. 
Published: May 2010

Development of a Retrospective Job Exposure Matrix for PCB‐exposed Workers in Capacitor Manufacturing: Nancy B. Hopf, et al. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluation and Field Studies, Industry‐wide Studies Branch, USAObjectivesPolychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are considered probable human carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and one congener, PCB126, has been rated as a known human carcinogen. A period‐specific job exposure matrix (JEM) was developed for former PCB‐exposed capacitor manufacturing workers (n=12,605) (1938–1977).MethodsA detailed exposure assessment for this plant was based on a number of exposure determinants (proximity, degree of contact with PCBs, temperature, ventilation, process control, job mobility). The intensity and frequency of PCB exposures by job for both inhalation and dermal exposures, and additional chemical exposures were reviewed. The JEM was developed in nine steps: (1) all unique jobs (n=1,684) were assessed using (2) defined PCB exposure determinants; (3) the exposure determinants were used to develop exposure profiles; (4) similar exposure profiles were combined into categories having similar PCB exposures; (5) qualitative intensity (high‐medium‐low‐baseline) and frequency (continuous‐intermittent) ratings were developed, and (6) used to qualitatively rate inhalation and dermal exposure separately for each category; (7) quantitative intensity ratings based on available air concentrations were developed for inhalation and dermal exposures based on equal importance of both routes of exposure; (8) adjustments were made for overall exposure, and (9) for each category the product of intensity and frequency was calculated, and exposure in the earlier era was weighted.ResultsA period‐specific JEM modified for two eras of stable PCB exposure conditions.ConclusionsThese exposure estimates, derived from a systematic and rigorous use of the exposure determinant data, lead to cumulative PCB exposure‐response relationships in the epidemiological cancer mortality and incidence studies of this cohort.
The US Air Force Suicide Prevention Program: Implications for Public Health Policy
Authors: Knox Kerry L. , Pflanz Steven , Talcott Gerald W. , Campise Rick L. , Lavigne Jill E. , Bajorska Alina , Tu Xin , Caine Eric D. 
Published: May 2010

Objectives. We evaluated the effectiveness of the US Air Force Suicide Prevention Program (AFSPP) in reducing suicide, and we measured the extent to which air force installations implemented the program.Methods. We determined the AFSPP's impact on suicide rates in the air force by applying an intervention regression model to data from 1981 through 2008, providing 16 years of data before the program's 1997 launch and 11 years of data after launch. Also, we measured implementation of program components at 2 points in time: during a 2004 increase in suicide rates, and 2 years afterward.Results. Suicide rates in the air force were significantly lower after the AFSPP was launched than before, except during 2004. We also determined that the program was being implemented less rigorously in 2004.Conclusions. The AFSPP effectively prevented suicides in the US Air Force. The long-term effectiveness of this program depends upon extensive implementation and effective monitoring of implementation. Suicides can be reduced through a multilayered, overlapping approach that encompasses key prevention domains and tracks implementation of program activities.
Social Network Structure of a Large Online Community for Smoking Cessation
Authors: Cobb Nathan K. , Graham Amanda L. , Abrams David B. 
Published: May 2010

Objectives. We evaluated the social network structure of QuitNet, one of the largest online communities for behavior change, and compared its characteristics to other known social networks. Methods. Using modern network analysis methods, we identified QuitNet members who were active during a 60-day period, along with their ties. We then derived multiple subgroups, such as key players and integrators, from connections and communication patterns. Results. Among 7569 participants, we identified 103 592 connections to other members. Metrics of social network integration were associated with increased likelihood of being female, being older, having been in the system longer, and not smoking. Conclusions. The QuitNet community is a large-scale social network with the characteristics required for sustainability of social support and social influence to promote smoking cessation and abstinence. These characteristics include persistence of members over time, heterogeneity of smoking status, and evidence of rich, bidirectional communications. Some of the influential subgroups we identified may provide targets for future network-level interventions.
Exploring Scenarios to Dramatically Reduce Smoking Prevalence: A Simulation Model of the Three-Part Cessation Process
Authors: Levy David T. , Mabry Patricia L. , Graham Amanda L. , Orleans C. Tracy , Abrams David B. 
Published: May 2010

Objectives. We used a simulation model to analyze whether the Healthy People 2010 goal of reducing smoking prevalence from the current 19.8% rate to 12% by 2010 could be accomplished by increasing quit attempts, increasing the use of treatments, or increasing the effectiveness of treatment. Methods. We expanded on previous versions of the tobacco control simulation model SimSmoke to assess the effects of an increase in quit attempts, treatment use, and treatment effectiveness to reduce smoking prevalence. In the model, we considered increases in each of these parameters individually and in combination. Results. Individually, 100% increases in quit attempts, treatment use, and treatment effectiveness reduced the projected 2020 prevalence to 13.9%, 16.7%, and 15.9%, respectively. With a combined 100% increase in all components, the goal of a 12% adult smoking prevalence could be reached by 2012. Conclusions. If we are to come close to reaching Healthy People 2010 goals in the foreseeable future, we must not only induce quit attempts but also increase treatment use and effectiveness. Simulation models provide a useful tool for evaluating the potential to reach public health targets.
A Network Assessment of Community-Based Participatory Research: Linking Communities and Universities to Reduce Cancer Disparities
Authors: Valente Thomas W. , Fujimoto Kayo , Palmer Paula , Tanjasiri Sora Park 
Published: May 2010

Objectives. We sought to determine whether a community-based initiative designed to reduce cancer disparities among Pacific Islanders in Southern California increased communications between community-based organizations and university researchers. Methods. We conducted network analysis among 11 community-based organizations (CBOs) and 5 universities by interviewing 91 and 56 members of these organizations, respectively, at 2 points in time. We estimated random effects probit regression and stochastic actor-oriented network dynamic models. Results. We found that, during the 2-year study period, CBOs increased their connectedness with one another (b= 0.44; P < .05) and to the universities (b = 0.46; P < .05), but that university researchers did not increase their connectedness to each other or to CBOs. Conclusions. Cancer awareness, cancer education, and access to cancer services are low among Pacific Island groups, and this study provides an initial attempt to reduce these disparities. Community-based initiatives can strengthen a CBO network, creating the potential for increased community-informed cancer research and improved community access to cancer research resources.
Application of a System Dynamics Model to Inform Investment in Smoking Cessation Services in New Zealand
Authors: Tobias Martin I. , Cavana Robert Y. , Bloomfield Ashley 
Published: May 2010

Objectives. We estimated the long-term effects of smoking cessation interventions to inform government decision-making regarding investment in tobacco control. Methods. We extracted data from the 2006 New Zealand Tobacco Use Survey and other sources and developed a system dynamics model with the iThink computer simulation package. The model derived estimates of population cessation rates from smoking behaviors and applied these over a 50-year period, from 2001 to 2051, under business-as-usual and enhanced cessation intervention scenarios. Results. The model predicted larger effects by 2051 with the enhanced cessation than with the business-as-usual scenario, including: an 11% greater decline in adult current smoking prevalence (9 versus 10 per 100 people), 16% greater decline in per capita tobacco consumption (370 versus 440 cigarette equivalents per year), and 11% greater reduction in tobacco-attributable mortality (3000 versus 3300 deaths per year). Conclusions. The model generated reliable estimates of the effects on health and on tobacco use of interventions designed to enhance smoking cessation. These results informed a decision announced in May 2007 to increase funding for smoking cessation by NZ $42 million over 4 years.
An Impact Evaluation of a Federal Mine Safety Training Regulation on Injury Rates Among US Stone, Sand, and Gravel Mine Workers: An Interrupted Time-Series Analysis
Authors: Monforton Celeste , Windsor Richard 
Published: May 2010

Objectives. We evaluated the impact of a safety training regulation, implemented by the US Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) in 1999, on injury rates at stone, sand, and gravel mining operations. Methods. We applied a time-series design and analyses with quarterly counts of nonfatal injuries and employment hours from 7998 surface aggregate mines from 1995 through 2006. Covariates included standard industrial classification codes, ownership, and injury severity. Results. Overall crude rates of injuries declined over the 12-year period. Reductions in incident rates for medical treatment only, restricted duty, and lost-time injuries were consistent with temporal trends and provided no evidence of an intervention effect attributable to the MSHA regulation. Rates of permanently disabling injuries (PDIs) declined markedly. Regression analyses documented a statistically significant reduction in the risk rate in the postintervention time period (risk rate = 0.591; 95% confidence interval = 0.529, 0.661). Conclusions. Although a causal relationship between the regulatory intervention and the decline in the rate of PDIs is plausible, inconsistency in the results with the other injury-severity categories preclude attributing the observed outcome to the MSHA regulation. Further analyses of these data are needed.
“Our Reach Is Wide by Any Corporate Standard”: How the Tobacco Industry Helped Defeat the Clinton Health Plan and Why It Matters Now
Authors: Tesler Laura E. , Malone Ruth E. 
Published: May 2010

Contemporary health care reformers, like those who promoted the failed Clinton era plan, face opposition from multiple corporate interests. However, scant literature has examined how relationships between corporations and other stakeholders, such as think tanks and advocacy groups, shape health care reform debate. We show how the 2 biggest US tobacco companies, Philip Morris and RJ Reynolds, and their trade association coordinated in mobilizing ideologically diverse constituencies to help defeat the Clinton plan. Unwittingly perhaps, some reform supporters advanced the tobacco industry's public relations blitz, contributing to perceptions of public opposition to the plan. As the current reform debate unfolds, this case highlights the importance of funding transparency for interpreting the activities of think tanks, advocacy groups, and “grassroots” movements.
“Willful Misconduct”: How the US Government Prevented Tobacco-Disabled Veterans From Obtaining Disability Pensions
Authors: Offen Naphtali , Smith Elizabeth A. , Malone Ruth E. 
Published: May 2010

In this descriptive case study, we analyze the unsuccessful struggle to access disability pensions by veterans sickened by tobacco use begun during service. Drawing on tobacco industry documents and other material, we show how the US government, tobacco industry, and veterans' organizations each took inconsistent positions to protect their interests.Congress and Department of Veterans Affairs leadership, concerned about costs, characterized veterans' smoking as “willful misconduct,” thereby contradicting the government's position in a federal lawsuit that tobacco companies addicted smokers. Veterans' groups supported the pensions, despite previously defending smoking as a “right.” The tobacco industry wavered, fearing liability. Securing pensions was complicated by the notion that smoking is primarily a personal choice.The US government should compensate veterans fairly and should abolish military practices that encourage tobacco addiction.
Parameters Influencing Increase in Pulp Chamber Temperature with Light-curing Devices: Curing Lights and Pulpal Flow Rates
Authors: Park S-H. , Roulet J-F. , Heintze S. D. 
Published: May 2010

Clinical Relevance
Because increase in temperature is related directly to light intensity and exposure time, curing devices with high power density (&gt;1200 mW/cm2) should only be activated for a short time (&lt;15 seconds), even in teeth without cavity preparation.