bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide identification of WRKY45-regulated genes that mediate benzothiadiazole-induced defense responses in rice
Authors: Nakayama Akira , Fukushima Setsuko , Goto Shingo , Matsushita Akane , Shimono Masaki , Sugano Shoji , Jiang Chang-Jie , Akagi Aya , Yamazaki Muneo , Inoue Haruhiko , Takatsuji Hiroshi
Published: October 2013

Background

The rice transcription factor WRKY45 plays a crucial role in salicylic acid (SA)/benzothiadiazole (BTH)-induced disease resistance. Its knockdown severely reduces BTH-induced resistance to the fungal pathogenMagnaporthe oryzaeand the bacterial pathogenXanthomonas oryzaepv.oryzae(Xoo). Conversely, overexpression of WRKY45 induces extremely strong resistance to both of these pathogens. To elucidate the molecular basis of WRKY45-dependent disease resistance, we analyzed WRKY45-regulated gene expression using rice transformants and a transient gene expression system.

Results

We conducted a microarray analysis usingWRKY45-knockdown (WRKY45-kd) rice plants, and identified WRKY45-dependent genes among the BTH-responsive genes. The BTH-responsiveness of 260 genes was dependent on WRKY45. Among these, 220 genes (85%), many of which encoded PR proteins and proteins associated with secondary metabolism, were upregulated by BTH. Only a small portion of these genes overlapped with those regulated by OsNPR1/NH1, supporting the idea that the rice SA pathway branches into WRKY45- regulated and OsNPR1/NH1-regulated subpathways. Dexamethazone-induced expression of myc-tagged WRKY45 in rice immediately upregulated transcription of endogenousWRKY45and genes encoding the transcription factors WRKY62, OsNAC4, and HSF1, all of which have been reported to have defense-related functions. This was followed by upregulation of defense genes encoding PR proteins and secondary metabolic enzymes. Many of these genes were also induced afterM.oryzaeinfection. Their temporal transcription patterns were consistent with those after dexamethazone-inducedWRKY45expression. In a transient expression system consisting of particle bombardment of rice coleoptiles, WRKY45 acted as an effector to trans-activate reporter genes in which the luciferase coding sequence was fused to upstream and intragenic sequences ofWRKY62andOsNAC4. Trans-activation of transcription occurred through a W-box-containing sequence upstream ofOsNAC4and mutations in the W-boxes abolished the trans-activation.

Conclusions

These data suggest a role of WRKY45 in BTH-induced disease resistance as a master regulator of the transcriptional cascade regulating defense responses in one of two branches in the rice SA pathway.
Management of low back pain in general practice – is it of acceptable quality: an observational study among 25 general practices in South Tyrol (Italy)
Authors: Piccoliori Giuliano , Engl Adolf , Gatterer Doris , Sessa Emiliano , in der Schmitten Jürgen , Abholz Heinz-Harald
Published: October 2013

Background

There are several guidelines dealing with the management of low back pain (LBP), but only few studies on the quality of care provided within General Practices as judged against those guidelines.

The objective of this study is to analyse the management of LBP in Italian General Practice and compare it with guideline recommendations.

Methods

In this observational study, all patients visiting their General Practitioners (GPs) for treatment of LBP within a 8-week period were monitored for at least four weeks with regard to symptoms and diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Management of LBP was judged by pre-defined quality indicators based on guideline recommendations.

Results

Twenty-five of 114 eligible GPs participated in the study, representing a total of 43,012 registered patients. Of the 475 patients complaining of LBP and monitored for four weeks, 55.8% were diagnosed as having acute lumbar pain, 13.5% chronic lumbar pain, 17.1% acute sciatica, and 12.6% chronic sciatica; 76.0% underwent no technical investigations, 21.7% underwent x-rays, 5.5% MRI and 4% CT scans; 20.4% were referred to secondary care; 93.3% of all patients received some medication. In those receiving a medication, in 88.3% it was an NSAID, in 6.3% Paracetamol, in 10.4% Paracetamol combined with Codeine, and in 9% a muscle relaxants. When physiotherapy was prescribed (17,1%), it was mostly massage. Hardly more than 50% of GPs (partially) followed locally established guidelines, while the remainder seemed not to follow guidelines at all.

Conclusions

Our study reveals gross deviations of GP management of LBP from current guidelines and points to two different types of deviators: those who partially follow guidelines, and those who do not follow them at all. Further research should evaluate whether these two types of deviation are best addressed by different foci of education, i.e. on knowledge versus attitudes, respectively.
Fall incidents unraveled: a series of 26 video-based real-life fall events in three frail older persons
Authors: Vlaeyen Ellen , Deschodt Mieke , Debard Glen , Dejaeger Eddy , Boonen Steven , Goedemé Toon , Vanrumste Bart , Milisen Koen
Published: October 2013

Background

For prevention and detection of falls, it is essential to unravel the way in which older people fall. This study aims to provide a description of video-based real-life fall events and to examine real-life falls using the classification system by Noury and colleagues, which divides a fall into four phases (the prefall, critical, postfall and recovery phase).

Methods

Observational study of three older persons at high risk for falls, residing in assisted living or residential care facilities: a camera system was installed in each participant’s room covering all areas, using a centralized PC platform in combination with standard Internet Protocol (IP) cameras. After a fall, two independent researchers analyzed recorded images using the camera position with the clearest viewpoint.

Results

A total of 30 falls occurred of which 26 were recorded on camera over 17 months. Most falls happened in the morning or evening (62%), when no other persons were present (88%). Participants mainly fell backward (initial fall direction and landing configuration) on the pelvis or torso and none could get up unaided. In cases where a call alarm was used (54%), an average of 70 seconds (SD=64; range 15–224) was needed to call for help. Staff responded to the call after an average of eight minutes (SD=8.4; range 2–33). Mean time on the ground was 28 minutes (SD=25.4; range 2–59) without using a call alarm compared to 11 minutes (SD=9.2; range 3–38) when using a call alarm (p=0.445).

The real life falls were comparable with the prefall and recovery phase of Noury’s classification system. The critical phase, however, showed a prolonged duration in all falls. We suggest distinguishing two separate phases: a prolonged loss of balance phase and the actual descending phase after failure to recover balance, resulting in the impact of the body on the ground. In contrast to the theoretical description, the postfall phase was not typically characterized by inactivity; this depended on the individual.

Conclusions

This study contributes to a better understanding of the fall process in private areas of assisted living and residential care settings in older persons at high risk for falls.
Validation of the new classification of pauci-immune glomerulonephritis in a United States cohort and its correlation with renal outcome
Authors: Ellis Carla L , Manno Rebecca L , Havill John P , Racusen Lorraine C , Geetha Duvuru
Published: October 2013

Background

Renal biopsies provide important diagnostic and prognostic information in ANCA associated glomerulonephritis. A new classification for prognostication of pauci-immune glomerulonephritis (GN) based on four categories (Mixed, Crescentic, Sclerotic and Focal) was proposed by an international working group of renal pathologists (IWGRP). The goal of our study was to apply the proposed classification system to a United States cohort of vasculitis patients and determine the association of IWGRP class with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at one year.

Methods

Seventy-six cases of pauci-immune glomerulonephritis diagnosed from 1995 to 2011 from a single center were identified for this retrospective study. Clinical data were collected by abstraction from medical records. Histology was reviewed by a pathologist and classified according to the new classification. MDRD formula was used to calculate eGFR. We correlated IWGRP class to renal function at presentation and at one year. ×2, ANOVA, and linear regression analysis were performed as appropriate.

Results

Renal biopsies were categorized as focal: n = 20, crescentic: n = 18, mixed: n = 27, sclerotic: n = 11. The baseline e-GFR was lowest in the crescentic class and highest in the focal class. In linear regression analysis investigating e-GFR at 1 year; age and baseline e-GFR were independent predictors of e-GFR at 1 year.

Conclusions

The e-GFR at diagnosis and age were predictors of e-GFR at 1 year. Pathologic class at diagnosis may also be a helpful tool in risk stratification at diagnosis.
The effects of augmented visual feedback during balance training in Parkinson’s disease: study design of a randomized clinical trial
Authors: van den Heuvel Maarten RC , van Wegen Erwin EH , de Goede Cees JT , Burgers-Bots Ingrid AL , Beek Peter J , Daffertshofer Andreas , Kwakkel Gert
Published: October 2013

Background

Patients with Parkinson’s disease often suffer from reduced mobility due to impaired postural control. Balance exercises form an integral part of rehabilitative therapy but the effectiveness of existing interventions is limited. Recent technological advances allow for providing enhanced visual feedback in the context of computer games, which provide an attractive alternative to conventional therapy. The objective of this randomized clinical trial is to investigate whether a training program capitalizing on virtual-reality-based visual feedback is more effective than an equally-dosed conventional training in improving standing balance performance in patients with Parkinson’s disease.

Methods/design

Patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease will participate in a five-week balance training program comprising ten treatment sessions of 60 minutes each. Participants will be randomly allocated to (1) an experimental group that will receive balance training using augmented visual feedback, or (2) a control group that will receive balance training in accordance with current physical therapy guidelines for Parkinson’s disease patients. Training sessions consist of task-specific exercises that are organized as a series of workstations. Assessments will take place before training, at six weeks, and at twelve weeks follow-up. The functional reach test will serve as the primary outcome measure supplemented by comprehensive assessments of functional balance, posturography, and electroencephalography.

Discussion

We hypothesize that balance training based on visual feedback will show greater improvements on standing balance performance than conventional balance training. In addition, we expect that learning new control strategies will be visible in the co-registered posturographic recordings but also through changes in functional connectivity.

Trial registration

ISRCTN: ISRCTN47046299
Molecular details of ligand selectivity determinants in a promiscuous β-glucan periplasmic binding protein
Authors: Munshi Parthapratim , Stanley Christopher B , Ghimire-Rijal Sudipa , Lu Xun , Myles Dean A , Cuneo Matthew J
Published: October 2013

Background

Members of the periplasmic binding protein (PBP) superfamily utilize a highly conserved inter-domain ligand binding site that adapts to specifically bind a chemically diverse range of ligands. This paradigm of PBP ligand binding specificity was recently altered when the structure of the Thermotoga maritima cellobiose-binding protein (tmCBP) was solved. The tmCBP binding site is bipartite, comprising a canonical solvent-excluded region (subsite one), adjacent to a solvent-filled cavity (subsite two) where specific and semi-specific ligand recognition occur, respectively.

Results

A molecular level understanding of binding pocket adaptation mechanisms that simultaneously allow both ligand specificity at subsite one and promiscuity at subsite two has potentially important implications in ligand binding and drug design studies. We sought to investigate the determinants of ligand binding selectivity in tmCBP through biophysical characterization of tmCBP in the presence of varying β-glucan oligosaccharides. Crystal structures show that whilst the amino acids that comprise both the tmCBP subsite one and subsite two binding sites remain fixed in conformation regardless of which ligands are present, the rich hydrogen bonding potential of water molecules may facilitate the ordering and the plasticity of this unique PBP binding site.

Conclusions

The identification of the roles these water molecules play in ligand recognition suggests potential mechanisms that can be utilized to adapt a single ligand binding site to recognize multiple distinct ligands.
Anti-angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) proteins from mycelia of Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst
Authors: Mohamad Ansor Nurhuda , Abdullah Noorlidah , Aminudin Norhaniza
Published: October 2013

Background

Ganoderma lucidum has been purported as a potent remedy in the treatment and prevention of several ailments, including hypertension. This study aimed to explore the anti-ACE potential of protein fractions from the mycelia of G. lucidum.

Methods

Ganoderma lucidum mycelia were cultivated by submerged fermentation in a liquid medium containing brown sugar and spent brewer’s yeast. Intracellular proteins were fractionated from mycelia crude water extract by ammonium sulphate precipitation, and their angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitory activity was evaluated. The potential anti-ACE protein fractions were further separated by RP-HPLC and characterised using proteomics platforms.

Results

Preliminary result demonstrated that the mycelia crude water extract inhibited ACE at IC50 value of 1.134 ± 0.036 mg/mL. Following protein fractionation and HPLC purification, the presence of highly potential anti-ACE proteins with the IC50 values less than 200 μg/mL was detected. Characterisation of these proteins demonstrated the presence of four different antihypertensive-related proteins involved in the regulation of blood pressure through different mechanisms.

Conclusions

This study suggests that the mycelia of G. lucidum has high potential in lowering blood pressure level due to the presence of several antihypertensive-related proteins such as cystathionine beta synthase-like protein, DEAD/DEAH box helicase-like protein, paxillin-like protein, and alpha/beta hydrolase-like protein.
Distribution of selected healthcare resources for influenza pandemic response in Cambodia
Authors: Schwanke Khilji Sara U , Rudge James W , Drake Tom , Chavez Irwin , Borin Khieu , Touch Sok , Coker Richard
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Human influenza infection poses a serious public health threat in Cambodia, a country at risk for the emergence and spread of novel influenza viruses with pandemic potential. Prior pandemics demonstrated the adverse impact of influenza on poor communities in developing countries. Investigation of healthcare resource distribution can inform decisions regarding resource mobilization and investment for pandemic mitigation.

Methods

A health facility survey performed across Cambodia obtained data on availability of healthcare resources important for pandemic influenza response. Focusing on five key resources considered most necessary for treating severe influenza (inpatient beds, doctors, nurses, oseltamivir, and ventilators), resource distributions were analyzed at the Operational District (OD) and Province levels, refining data analysis from earlier studies. Resources were stratified by respondent type (hospital vs. District Health Office [DHO]). A summary index of distribution inequality was calculated using the Gini coefficient. Indices for local spatial autocorrelation were measured at the OD level using geographical information system (GIS) analysis. Finally, a potential link between socioeconomic status and resource distribution was explored by mapping resource densities against poverty rates.

Results

Gini coefficient calculation revealed variable inequality in distribution of the five key resources at the Province and OD levels. A greater percentage of the population resides in areas of relative under-supply (28.5%) than over-supply (21.3%). Areas with more resources per capita showed significant clustering in central Cambodia while areas with fewer resources clustered in the northern and western provinces. Hospital-based inpatient beds, doctors, and nurses were most heavily concentrated in areas of the country with the lowest poverty rates; however, beds and nurses in Non-Hospital Medical Facilities (NHMF) showed increasing concentrations at higher levels of poverty.

Conclusions

There is considerable heterogeneity in healthcare resource distribution across Cambodia. Distribution mapping at the local level can inform policy decisions on where to stockpile resources in advance of and for reallocation in the event of a pandemic. These findings will be useful in determining future health resource investment, both for pandemic preparedness and for general health system strengthening, and provide a foundation for future analyses of equity in health services provision for pandemic mitigation planning in Cambodia.
Quantitative proteomics reveals regulatory differences in the chondrocyte secretome from human medial and lateral femoral condyles in osteoarthritic patients
Authors: Stenberg Johan , Rüetschi Ulla , Skiöldebrand Eva , Kärrholm Johan , Lindahl Anders
Published: October 2013

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a destructive joint disease and there are no known biomarkers available for an early diagnosis. To identify potential disease biomarkers and gain further insight into the disease mechanisms of OA we applied quantitative proteomics with SILAC technology on the secretomes from chondrocytes of OA knees, designated as high Mankin (HM) scored secretome. A quantitative comparison was made between the secretomes of the medial and lateral femur condyle chondrocytes in the same knee since the medial femur condyle is usually more affected in OA than the lateral condyle, which was confirmed by Mankin scoring. The medial/lateral comparison was also made on the secretomes from chondrocytes taken from one individual with no clinically apparent joint-disease, designated as low Mankin (LM) scored secretome.

Results

We identified 825 proteins in the HM secretome and 69 of these showed differential expression when comparing the medial and lateral femoral compartment. The LM scored femoral condyle showed early signs of OA in the medial compartment as assessed by Mankin score. We here report the identification and relative quantification of several proteins of interest for the OA disease mechanism e.g. CYTL1, DMD and STAB1 together with putative early disease markers e.g. TIMP1, PPP2CA and B2M.

Conclusions

The present study reveals differences in protein abundance between medial/lateral femur condyles in OA patients. These regulatory differences expand the knowledge regarding OA disease markers and mechanisms.
Endoscopic and clinicopathological patterns of esophageal cancer in Tanzania: experiences from two tertiary health institutions
Authors: Mchembe Mabula D , Rambau Peter F , Chalya Phillipo L , Jaka Hyasinta , Koy Mheta , Mahalu William
Published: October 2013

Background

Esophageal cancer is one of the most serious gastrointestinal cancer worldwide, owing to its rapid development and fatal prognoses in most cases. There is a paucity of published data regarding esophageal cancer in Tanzania and the study area in particular. This study was conducted to describe the endoscopic and clinicopathological patterns of esophageal cancer in this part of the world. The study provides baseline local data for future comparison.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of histologically confirmed cases of esophageal cancer seen at Bugando Medical Center and Muhimbili National Hospital between March 2008 and February 2013. Data were retrieved from medical record computer database and analyzed using SPSS computer software version 17.0.

Results

A total of 328 esophageal cancer patients were enrolled in the study, representing 25.3% of all malignant gastrointestinal tract tumors. The male to female ratio was 2.2:1. The median age of patients at presentation was 47 years. The majority of patients (86.6%) were peasants coming from the rural areas. Smoking and alcohol consumption were documented in 74.7% and 61.6% of patients respectively. Family history of esophageal cancer was reported in 4.6% of cases. The majority of patients (81.7%) presented late with advanced stage of cancer. Progressive dysphagia and weight loss were the most common presenting symptoms occurring in all patients. The middle third esophagus (58.5%) was the most frequent anatomical site for esophageal cancer followed by lower third (27.4%) and upper third esophagus (10.4%). Squamous cell carcinoma (96.0%) was the most common histopathological type. Adenocarcinoma occurred in 13 (4.0%) patients. TNM staging was documented in only 104 (31.7%) patients. Of these, 102(98.1%) patients were diagnosed with advanced esophageal cancer (Stages III and IV). According to tumor grading, most of tumors were moderately differentiated accounting for 56.1% of cases. Distant metastasis was documented in 43.3% of patients.

Conclusion

Esophageal cancer is not uncommon in this region and shows a trend towards a relative young age at presentation and the majority of patients present late with advanced stage. There is a need for screening of high-risk populations and detecting esophageal cancer at an early stage in order to improve chances for successful treatment and survival.
Hotspot analysis of Taiwanese breeding birds to determine gaps in the protected area network
Authors: Wu Tsai-Yu , Walther Bruno A , Chen Yi-Hsiu , Lin Ruey-Shing , Lee Pei-Fen
Published: October 2013

Background

Although Taiwan is an important hotspot of avian endemism, efforts to use available distributional information for conservation analyses are so far incomplete. For the first time, we present a hotspot analysis of Taiwanese breeding birds with sufficient sampling coverage for distribution modeling. Furthermore, we improved previous modeling efforts by combining several of the most reliable modeling techniques to build an ensemble model for each species. These species maps were added together to generate hotspot maps using the following criteria: total species richness, endemic species richness, threatened species richness, and rare species richness. We then proceeded to use these hotspot maps to determine the 5% most species-rich grid cells (1) within the entire island of Taiwan and (2) within the entire island of Taiwan but outside of protected areas.

Results

Almost all of the species richness and hotspot analyses revealed that mountainous regions of Taiwan hold most of Taiwan's avian biodiversity. The only substantial unprotected region which was consistently highlighted as an important avian hotspot is a large area of unprotected mountains in Taiwan's northeast (mountain regions around Nan-ao) which should become a high priority for future fieldwork and conservation efforts. In contrast, other unprotected areas of high conservation value were just spatial extensions of areas already protected in the central and southern mountains. To combine the results of our four hotspot criteria, we assessed which grid cells were the most valuable according to all four criteria. Again, we found the Nan-ao mountain regions to be important. We also showed that different hotspot criteria only partially overlapped and sometimes barely at all.

Conclusions

Therefore, to protect areas based on only one hotspot criterion (total species richness) would not protect areas based on other hotspot criteria (endemic species richness, threatened species richness, or rare species richness) in Taiwan.
Effect of the amino chain length and the transformation into citric acid salts of aryl-diphenyl-butenes and ferrocenyl-diphenyl-butenes bearing two dimethylaminoalkyl chains on their antimicrobial activities
Authors: Jellali Karim , Pigeon Pascal , Trigui Fatma , Top Siden , Aifa Sami , Jaouen Gérard , El Arbi Mehdi
Published: October 2013

In a previous work we have demonstrated the antimicrobial activity of ferrocenyl or phenyl derivatives of diphenyl butene series. This finding has opened a new area of applications of organometallic compounds.

In order to improve these activities, we have synthesized new organic and organometallic diaryl butene compounds with different lengths of their amino chains. These new compounds, and also their ammonium salts, were tested against man pathogenic microorganisms Escherichia coli (ATCC 10536), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15442), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) and Enterococcus hirae (ATCC 10541).

It emerged from the tests that the Gram+ bacteria are more sensitive to the compounds than Gram-, and the compounds with 3 carbon amino chains have a better antimicrobial activity than the one having a chain of 2 or 4 carbons.

The transformation of compounds to citrate salts was accompanied by a significant regression of antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, for both organic and ferrocenic molecules. This resistance problem has been solved using hydrochlorides salts rather than citrates one.
HLA and non-HLA genes in Behçet’s disease: a multicentric study in the Spanish population
Authors: Montes-Cano Marco Antonio , Conde-Jaldón Marta , García-Lozano José Raul , Ortiz-Fernández Lourdes , Ortego-Centeno Norberto , Castillo-Palma María Jesús , Espinosa Gerard , Graña-Gil Genaro , González-Gay Miguel Angel , Barnosi-Marín Ana Celia , Solans Roser , Fanlo Patricia , Camps Teresa , Castañeda Santos , Sánchez-Bursón Juan , Núñez-Roldán Antonio , Martín Javier , González-Escribano María Francisca
Published: October 2013

Introduction

According to genome wide association (GWA) studies as well as candidate gene approaches, Behçet’s disease (BD) is associated with human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A and HLA-B gene regions. The HLA-B51 has been consistently associated with the disease, but the role of other HLA class I molecules remains controversial. Recently, variants in non-HLA genes have also been associated with BD. The aims of this study were to further investigate the influence of the HLA region in BD and to explore the relationship with non-HLA genes recently described to be associated in other populations.

Methods

This study included 304 BD patients and 313 ethnically matched controls. HLA-A and HLA-B low resolution typing was carried out by PCR-SSOP Luminex. Eleven tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located outside of the HLA-region, previously described associated with the disease in GWA studies and having a minor allele frequency in Caucasians greater than 0.15 were genotyped using TaqMan assays. Phenotypic and genotypic frequencies were estimated by direct counting and distributions were compared using the χ2 test.

Results

In addition to HLA-B*51, HLA-B*57 was found as a risk factor in BD, whereas, B*35 was found to be protective. Other HLA-A and B specificities were suggestive of association with the disease as risk (A*02 and A*24) or protective factors (A*03 and B*58). Regarding the non-HLA genes, the three SNPs located in IL23R and one of the SNPs in IL10 were found to be significantly associated with susceptibility to BD in our population.

Conclusion

Different HLA specificities are associated with Behçet’s disease in addition to B*51. Other non-HLA genes, such as IL23R and IL-10, play a role in the susceptibility to the disease.
Survey of controversial issues of end-of-life treatment decisions in Korea: similarities and discrepancies between healthcare professionals and the general public
Authors: Ryu HoGeol , Choi Ji-Eun , Lee Sunyoung , Koh Jiwon , Bae Jong-Myon , Heo DaeSeog
Published: October 2013

Introduction

End-of-life (EOL) treatment issues have recently gained societal attention after the Korean Supreme Court’s ruling that the presumed wishes of an elderly woman in a persistent vegetative state (PVS) should be honored. We tried to evaluate what Koreans thought about controversial issues regarding EOL treatments.

Methods

We surveyed Koreans with the following questions: 1) are ventilator-dependent PVS patients candidates for end-of life treatment decisions? 2) Is withholding and withdrawing EOL treatment the same thing? 3) In an unconscious, terminally ill patient, whose wishes are unknown, how should EOL decisions be made? 4) How should we settle disagreement amongst medical staff and the patient’s family on EOL decisions?

Results

One thousand Koreans not working in healthcare and five hundred healthcare professionals responded to the survey. Fifty-seven percent of Koreans not working in healthcare and sixty seven percent of Korean healthcare professionals agreed that ventilator-dependent PVS patients are candidates for EOL treatment decisions. One quarter of all respondents regarded withholding and withdrawing EOL treatment as equal. Over 50% thought that EOL treatment decisions should be made through discussions between the physician and the patient’s family. For conflict resolution, 75% of Koreans not working in healthcare preferred direct settlement between the medical staff and the patient’s family while 55% of healthcare professionals preferred the hospital ethics committee.

Conclusions

Unsettled issues in Korea regarding EOL treatment decision include whether to include ventilator-dependent PVS patients as candidates of EOL treatment decision and how to sort out disagreements regarding EOL treatment decisions. Koreans viewed withholding and withdrawing EOL treatment issues differently.
Estimating the nature and the horizontal and vertical positions of 3D magnetic sources using Euler deconvolution
Authors: Melo Felipe F. , Barbosa Valeria C. F. , Uieda Leonardo , Oliveira Jr. Vanderlei C. , Silva João B. C.
Published: October 2013

We have developed a new method that drastically reduces the number of the source location estimates in Euler deconvolution to only one per anomaly. Our method employs the analytical estimators of the base level and of the horizontal and vertical source positions in Euler deconvolution as a function of the [Formula: see text]- and [Formula: see text]-coordinates of the observations. By assuming any tentative structural index (defining the geometry of the sources), our method automatically locates plateaus, on the maps of the horizontal coordinate estimates, indicating consistent estimates that are very close to the true corresponding coordinates. These plateaus are located in the neighborhood of the highest values of the anomaly and show a contrasting behavior with those estimates that form inclined planes at the anomaly borders. The plateaus are automatically located on the maps of the horizontal coordinate estimates by fitting a first-degree polynomial to these estimates in a moving-window scheme spanning all estimates. The positions where the angular coefficient estimates are closest to zero identify the plateaus of the horizontal coordinate estimates. The sample means of these horizontal coordinate estimates are the best horizontal location estimates. After mapping each plateau, our method takes as the best structural index the one that yields the minimum correlation between the total-field anomaly and the estimated base level over each plateau. By using the estimated structural index for each plateau, our approach extracts the vertical coordinate estimates over the corresponding plateau. The sample means of these estimates are the best depth location estimates in our method. When applied to synthetic data, our method yielded good results if the bodies produce weak- and mid-interfering anomalies. A test on real data over intrusions in the Goiás Alkaline Province, Brazil, retrieved sphere-like sources suggesting 3D bodies.
Viscoelasticity of Ells River bitumen sand and 4D monitoring of thermal enhanced oil recovery processes
Authors: Spencer James W.
Published: October 2013

Samples of Ells River bitumen sand from Alberta, Canada were measured at low frequencies (0.2–205 Hz) to determine the temperature and frequency dependence of velocities and attenuations. The samples were first measured “as received” where the pore space is mostly filled with bitumen but also contains small amounts of air and water. With residual air in the pores, at 5°C, there is strong dispersion in the P-wave modulus and a peak in attenuation at seismic frequencies. The frequency-dependent moduli and attenuations shift by three orders of magnitude in frequency as temperature is increased from 5°C to 48°C, consistent with the bitumen viscosity. Samples were then saturated so any empty pore space is filled with water. After saturation, at 1 Hz, increasing temperature from 5°C to 49°C causes a 30% reduction in the saturated P-wave modulus, a 34% reduction in the saturated bulk modulus, and a 6% reduction in the shear modulus. This behavior can only be explained by the temperature-dependent bulk modulus of bitumen. The results enable predictions regarding the P-velocities that can be expected during seismic monitoring of thermal enhanced oil recovery processes. Velocities for cold bitumen sand are near [Formula: see text] at reservoir pressure and temperature. Following steam injection, velocities should be very low (near [Formula: see text]) in heated zones more than 50°C with a free gas phase, which could be steam or gas. There will be a progressive reduction in velocities, i.e., [Formula: see text] at 25°C and [Formula: see text] at 49°C, in areas of formation heating, but without steam or gas in the pores. Albeit smaller than the effect of steam, the effect of formation heating alone is large enough to be easily detected by today’s 4D surveys. With local rock physics calibration, it should be possible to map the areal extent of formation heating using 4D seismic data.
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Reduces Mortality and Improves Lung Function in a Model of Experimental Obstructive Lung Disease in Female Mice
Authors: Viby Niels-Erik , Isidor Marie S. , Buggeskov Katrine B. , Poulsen Steen S. , Hansen Jacob B. , Kissow Hannelouise
Published: October 2013

The incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an important insulin secretagogue and GLP-1 analogs are used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. GLP-1 displays antiinflammatory and surfactant-releasing effects. Thus, we hypothesize that treatment with GLP-1 analogs will improve pulmonary function in a mouse model of obstructive lung disease. Female mice were sensitized with injected ovalbumin and treated with GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists. Exacerbation was induced with inhalations of ovalbumin and lipopolysaccharide. Lung function was evaluated with a measurement of enhanced pause in a whole-body plethysmograph. mRNA levels of GLP-1R, surfactants (SFTPs), and a number of inflammatory markers were measured. GLP-1R was highly expressed in lung tissue. Mice treated with GLP-1R agonists had a noticeably better clinical appearance than the control group. Enhanced pause increased dramatically at day 17 in all control mice, but the increase was significantly less in the groups of GLP-1R agonist-treated mice (P < .001). Survival proportions were significantly increased in GLP-1R agonist-treated mice (P < .01). SFTPB and SFTPA were down-regulated and the expression of inflammatory cytokines were increased in mice with obstructive lung disease, but levels were largely unaffected by GLP-1R agonist treatment. These results show that GLP-1R agonists have potential therapeutic potential in the treatment of obstructive pulmonary diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, by decreasing the severity of acute exacerbations. The mechanism of action does not seem to be the modulation of inflammation and SFTP expression.
Thyroid Autoantibodies Are Rare in Nonhuman Great Apes and Hypothyroidism Cannot Be Attributed to Thyroid Autoimmunity
Authors: Aliesky Holly , Courtney Cynthia L. , Rapoport Basil , McLachlan Sandra M.
Published: October 2013

The great apes include, in addition to Homo, the genera Pongo (orangutans), Gorilla (gorillas), and Pan, the latter comprising two species, P. troglodytes (chimpanzees) and P. paniscus (bonobos). Adult-onset hypothyroidism was previously reported in 4 individual nonhuman great apes. However, there is scarce information on normal serum thyroid hormone levels and virtually no data for thyroid autoantibodies in these animals. Therefore, we examined thyroid hormone levels and TSH in all nonhuman great ape genera including adults, adolescents, and infants. Because hypothyroidism in humans is commonly the end result of thyroid autoimmunity, we also tested healthy and hypothyroid nonhuman great apes for antibodies to thyroglobulin (Tg), thyroid peroxidase (TPO), and the TSH receptor (TSHR). We established a thyroid hormone and TSH database in orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and bonobos (447 individuals). The most striking differences are the greatly reduced free-T4 and free-T3 levels in orangutans and gorillas vs chimpanzees and bonobos, and conversely, elevated TSH levels in gorillas vs Pan species. Antibodies to Tg and TPO were detected in only 2.6% of adult animals vs approximately 10% in humans. No animals with Tg, TPO, or TSHR antibodies exhibited thyroid dysfunction. Conversely, hypothyroid nonhuman great apes lacked thyroid autoantibodies. Moreover, thyroid histology in necropsy tissues was similar in euthyroid and hypothyroid individuals, and lymphocytic infiltration was absent in 2 hypothyroid animals. In conclusion, free T4 and free T3 are lower in orangutans and gorillas vs chimpanzees and bonobos, the closest living human relatives. Moreover, thyroid autoantibodies are rare and hypothyroidism is unrelated to thyroid autoimmunity in nonhuman great apes.
Expression of SSTR2a, but not of SSTRs 1, 3, or 5 in Somatotroph Adenomas Assessed by Monoclonal Antibodies Was Reduced by Octreotide and Correlated With the Acute and Long-Term Effects of Octreotide
Authors: Casar-Borota Olivera , Heck Ansgar , Schulz Stefan , Nesland Jahn Marthin , Ramm-Pettersen Jon , Lekva Tove , Alafuzoff Irina , Bollerslev Jens
Published: October 2013

Context:

Reduced expression of somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) in somatotroph adenomas and their potential down-regulation after medical treatment may explain the unsatisfactory response to octreotide in particular acromegalic patients. The expression of SSTRs other than SSTR2a has not been studied in large, unselected cohorts using novel rabbit monoclonal antibodies.

Objective:

We aimed to determine the expression of SSTRs 1, 2a, 3, and 5 in somatotroph adenomas, to correlate expression with clinical characteristics and the response to octreotide, and to ascertain whether preoperative octreotide treatment affected SSTR expression.

Design, Setting, Patients:

The study included 78 adenomas from patients operated on consecutively during 2000 to 2010. After exclusion of 13 patients, immunohistochemical analysis with rabbit monoclonal antibodies against SSTRs 1, 2a, 3, and 5 (clones UMB-7, -1, -5, and -4) was performed on 65 adenomas.

Intervention:

Twenty-eight patients received preoperative octreotide, and 37 patients were operated on without pretreatment. Twenty-six patients were randomized to direct surgery (n = 13) or to octreotide pretreatment (n = 13).

Main Outcome Measure:

SSTR expression was evaluated using a 12-grade scoring system. The responses to the octreotide test dose (GH reduction) and to 6 months of octreotide (IGF-I reduction) were measured.

Results:

The majority of adenomas showed membranous expression of SSTRs 2a and 5. SSTR2a expression was reduced in the pretreated group and correlated with the acute octreotide test results and the effect of octreotide treatment. In a linear regression model with SSTR2a expression as the determinant, the correlation with the acute test response improved after adjustment for medical pretreatment.

Conclusion:

Rabbit monoclonal antibodies are reliable markers of SSTRs in somatotroph adenomas. SSTR2a expression correlated with the response to octreotide and was reduced after octreotide treatment, indicating the need for adjustment when SSTR2a expression is correlated with baseline characteristics. Evaluation of SSTR subtypes may be an important aspect of improving the medical treatment for acromegaly.
Mixing Properties of Binary Liquid Mixtures of Alkoxypropanols with Branched Alkanols at Different Temperatures
Authors: Kumar Harsh , Kundi Varun , Singla Meenu , Sharma Sanjay
Published: October 2013

Densities, ρ, and speed of sound, u for binary mixtures dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether and tripropylene glycol monomethyl ether with 2-methyl-1-propanol, 3-methyl-1-butnaol, and 2-methyl-2-butanol at T = 288.15, 298.15, and 308.15 K and atmospheric pressure over the entire range of composition have been measured using an Anton–Paar DSA 5000M densimeter. Excess molar volumes VmE, and deviations in isentropic compressibilities ΔκS have been calculated from experimental densities and speeds of sound. Comparison of the results has been made with earlier results. Deviations in intermolecular free length and deviations in acoustic impedance have also been calculated. The results have been discussed in terms of intermolecular interactions between component molecules of the mixtures.
Isoform-specific anti-MeCP2 antibodies confirm that expression of the e1 isoform strongly predominates in the brain
Authors: Kaddoum Lara , Panayotis Nicolas , Mazarguil Honoré , Giglia-Mari Giuseppina , Roux Jean Christophe , Joly Etienne
Published: October 2013

Rett syndrome is a neurological disorder caused by mutations in the MECP2 gene.  MeCP2 transcripts are alternatively spliced to generate two protein isoforms (MeCP2_e1 and MeCP2_e2) that differ at their N-termini. Whilst mRNAs for both forms are expressed ubiquitously, the one for MeCP2_e1 is more abundant than for MeCP2_e2 in the central nervous system. In transfected cells, both protein isoforms are nuclear and colocalize with densely methylated heterochromatic foci. With a view to understanding the physiological contribution of each isoform, and their respective roles in the pathogenesis of Rett syndrome, we set out to generate isoform-specific anti-MeCP2 antibodies. To this end, we immunized rabbits against the peptides corresponding to the short amino-terminal portions that are different between the two isoforms. The polyclonal antibodies thus obtained specifically detected their respective isoforms of MeCP2 in Neuro2a (N2A) cells transfected to express either form. Both antisera showed comparable sensitivities when used for Western blot or immunofluorescence, and were highly specific for their respective isoform. When those antibodies were used on mouse tissues, specific signals were easily detected for Mecp2_e1, whilst Mecp2_e2 was very difficult to detect by Western blot, and even more so by immunofluorescence. Our results thus suggest that brain cells express low amounts of the Mecp2-e2 isoform. Our findings are compatible with recent reports showing that MeCP2_e2 is dispensable for healthy brain function, and that it may be involved in the regulation of neuronal apoptosis and embryonic development.
Understanding the economics of dairy farming: feed costings
Authors: Chamberlain Tom
Published: October 2013

Feed costs are a major cost of milk production (approx. 30%) and monitoring results are frequently available on farm. The principle analysis outputs are the cost of the concentrate (or equivalent) in £/Tonne (range £180 to £250 per tonne as at Feb12) and the amount fed per litre (0.26 to 0.56 kg/litre milk). Such figures vary systematically with calendar month and herd milk yields so should be benchmarked accordingly. Two key drivers for cost-effective feeding are overall feed intake (ranging from 0.35 kg concentrate per litre milk with high intakes to 0.70 kg/l for low intakes) and forage energy content (ranging from 0.45 kg concentrate per litre milk with low quality to 0.28 kg/l for high quality forages). These two drivers are largely within the farmer's control.
The increasing threat of liver fluke to sheep
Authors: Lovatt Fiona
Published: October 2013

Liver fluke is a parasite that presents real challenges to sheep farmers and their veterinary surgeons. The complicated life cycle of Fasciola hepatica is strongly influenced by environmental factors and climate data suggest that the risks are increasing across virtually all areas of the UK. This fact, combined with the increasing number of reports of treatment failures, emphasises the vital importance of good management advice in the control of this disease.
Improvised Explosive Device-Related Pelviperineal Trauma: UK Military Experience, Literature Review and Lessons for Civilian Trauma Teams
Authors: Mossadegh S , Tai N , Midwinter M , Parker P
Published: October 2013

Injury patterns in Afghanistan have altered from ballistic trauma in 2006 to blast trauma in 2010–2011. Surgeons have had to alter their surgical resuscitation strategies. Improvised explosive device (IED) yields have increased, typically causing bilateral high transfemoral amputations and increasing the likelihood of pelvic and perineal injury.1 Forty per cent of bilateral transfemoral amputations in 2009 had an associated pelvic fracture. This led to a UK military policy of applying a pelvic binder to all IED victims in the pre-hospital environment.
Free flap survival after arterial ligation
Authors: Hindocha Arti , Ameerally Philip , Wildan Tun
Published: October 2013

During the last two decades the development of microvascular free-tissue transfer has provided a standard of care for reconstructing head and neck defects. Success rates vary from 94–99% and are dependent on the patency of vessels within the vascular pedicle.1,2 There have been reports of flaps surviving following division of the vascular pedicle. It is not known how long the flow in the pedicle must persist for the flap to survive and to develop an independent blood supply. The range found was from as little as three days up to three weeks.3,4 We present a case involving a free radial forearm flap for reconstruction of a buccal mucosa defect, with the flap surviving despite the loss of its arterial pedicle on the 12th postoperative day.
The oral management of oncology patients requiring radiotherapy, chemotherapy and/or bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Kumar Navdeep , Brooke Anthony , Burke Mary , John Rebecca , O’Donnell Amanda , Soldani Francesca
Published: October 2013

Patients undergoing cancer therapy may experience unwanted side-effects involving the oral cavity and more evidence is emerging regarding the management of these complications. These oral effects have both short and long-term implications. Dentists need to be aware of these implications and liaise closely with the oncology teams to establish pathways of oral care. This enables patients to have appropriate dental support in place before, during and after cancer therapy. This article is an executive summary of a review undertaken for a national clinical guideline, The Oral Management of Oncology Patients following Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy and/or Bone Marrow Transplanation. The full text is available on the FDS website: www.rcseng.ac.uk/fds/publications-clinical-guidelines/clinical_guidelines/