bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Swiss video journalist
Authors: Dickinson Roger , Bigi Hugo
Published: July 2009

Using the case of Swiss video journalists as an example this article examines how the structure-agency problem is reflected in the professional practice of contemporary news production. The trend in journalism and in news work in general is reportedly towards declining autonomy and increasing workplace alienation, hastened by the introduction of new production technologies. Evidence from a study of Swiss video journalists suggests that the impact of such change may not have the anticipated, wholly negative, consequences for news workers. The article concludes by suggesting that while it is difficult to see video journalists as skilled strategists contesting control in the increasingly market-oriented environment, neither can they be readily characterized as victims of commercialism enjoying little workplace autonomy. These extremes may exist among journalists as a whole, but the evidence indicates that professional practice in the world of the video journalist is the product of both the structure of their employment and their individual agency.
Envelope Thermal Design Optimization of Buildings with Intermittent Occupancy
Authors: Al-Homoud Mohammad S.
Published: July 2009

Buildings with intermittent occupancy may not perform thermally the same as typical commercial and residential facilities. Thermal comfort requirements require careful envelope design coupled with the appropriate air-conditioning system operation strategies. One of the most prominent examples of such buildings is mosques. Mosques are usually occupied five intermittent times day and night all year round. Like any other building, they have to be mechanically air-conditioned to achieve the required thermal comfort for worshippers especially in harsh climatic regions. This paper describes the physical and operating characteristics typical for the intermittently occupied mosques as well as the results of the thermal optimization of a medium size mosque in the two hot-dry and hot-humid Saudi Arabian cities of Riyadh and Jeddah. The analysis utilizes a direct search optimization technique that is coupled to an hourly energy simulation program. Based on that, design guidelines are presented for the optimum thermal performance of mosques in these two cities in addition to other design and operating factors that need to be considered for mosques in general.
Sampling and Analysis of Natural Isotopes in Moisture Transport from Porous Materials: Applications to Capillary Suction
Authors: Koniorczyk Marcin , Gudmundsson Kjartan , Johannesson Gudni
Published: July 2009

Apart from the most common 1H and 16O we have the sister isotopes: deuterium D and 18O in water. Isotope fractionation (the change in its concentration) occurs in any thermodynamic reaction. The isotopic composition serves as a distinct mark for each water sample. To carry out the isotope analysis of pore water, which may be used to reveal the source of excessive water in building elements, firstly one has to extrude water from voids. For this we tested three different methods of retrieving water from the porous material: squeezing and evaporation - the direct methods, dilution - the indirect method. The influence of capillary suction on the hydrogen and oxygen isotopes abundance ratio was also analysed. Materials whose substantial part of voids are gel pores (cementitious materials) act as a membrane during isotope transport separating lighter from heavier isotopes and therefore cause the fractionation of isotopes. The results of performed experiments indicate that moisture transport (capillary suction) has an influence on the isotopic composition of water. Therefore the isotope analysis can be useful in the investigation of moisture behaviour of porous building materials.
Free Water Intake as Means of Material Characterization
Authors: Vejmelková Eva , Pavlíková Milena , Jerman Miloš , Černý Robert
Published: July 2009

Free water intake experiment is analyzed from the point of view of the applicability of its output for material characterization. Several experimental setups are presented and discussed. Characteristic examples of sorptivity plots for different materials are given and their main features have been described. The application of the experiment for characterization of material damage and for explaining the water transport mechanisms in two-layer systems is presented. It is concluded that the free water intake experiment basically can be used as a means of material characterization but its strong and weak points should always be considered if conclusions on the behavior of a particular material are to be drawn.
Linked region detection using high-density SNP genotype data via the minimum recombinant model of pedigree haplotype inference
Authors: Wang Lusheng , Wang Zhanyong , Yang Wanling
Published: July 2009

Background

With the rapid development of high-throughput genotyping technologies, efficient methods for identifying linked regions using high-density SNP genotype data have become more and more important. Recently, a deterministic method that works very well on SNP genotyping data has been developed (Lin et al. Bioinformatics 2008, 24(1): 86–93). However, that program can only work on a limited number of family structures. In particular, the results (if any) will be poor when the genotype data for the whole chromosome of one of the parents in a nuclear family is missing.

Results

We have developed a software package (LIden) for identifying linked regions using high-density SNP genotype data. We focus on handling the case where the genotype data for the whole chromosome of one of the parents in a nuclear family is missing. We use the minimum recombinant model for haplotype inference in pedigrees. Several local optimization algorithms are used to infer the haplotype of each individual and determine the linked regions based on the inferred haplotype data. We have developed a more flexible method to combine nuclear families to further refine (reduce the length of) the linked regions.

Conclusion

Our new package (LIden) is efficient software for linked region detection using high-density SNP genotype data. LIden can handle some important cases where the existing programs do not work well. In particular, the new package can handle many cases where the genotype data of one of the two parents is missing for the entire chromosome. The running time of the program is O(mn), where m is the number of members in the family and n is the number of SNP sites in the chromosome. LIden is specifically suitable for handling big sized families. This research also demonstrates another practical use of the minimum recombinant model for haplotype inference in pedigrees.

The software package can be downloaded at http://www.cs.cityu.edu.hk/~lwang/software/Link.
Impact of animal strain on gene expression in a rat model of acute cardiac rejection
Authors: Deans Katherine J , Minneci Peter C , Chen Hao , Kern Steven J , Logun Carolea , Alsaaty Sara , Norsworthy Kelly J , Theel Stephanie M , Sennesh Joel D , Barb Jennifer J , Munson Peter J , Danner Robert L , Solomon Michael A
Published: July 2009

Background

The expression levels of many genes show wide natural variation among strains or populations. This study investigated the potential for animal strain-related genotypic differences to confound gene expression profiles in acute cellular rejection (ACR). Using a rat heart transplant model and 2 different rat strains (Dark Agouti, and Brown Norway), microarrays were performed on native hearts, transplanted hearts, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).

Results

In heart tissue, strain alone affected the expression of only 33 probesets while rejection affected the expression of 1368 probesets (FDR 10% and FC ≥ 3). Only 13 genes were affected by both strain and rejection, which was < 1% (13/1368) of all probesets differentially expressed in ACR. However, for PBMC, strain alone affected 265 probesets (FDR 10% and FC ≥ 3) and the addition of ACR had little further effect. Pathway analysis of these differentially expressed strain effect genes connected them with immune response, cell motility and cell death, functional themes that overlap with those related to ACR. After accounting for animal strain, additional analysis identified 30 PBMC candidate genes potentially associated with ACR.

Conclusion

In ACR, genetic background has a large impact on the transcriptome of immune cells, but not heart tissue. Gene expression studies of ACR should avoid study designs that require cross strain comparisons between leukocytes.
A set of EST-SNPs for map saturation and cultivar identification in melon
Authors: Deleu Wim , Esteras Cristina , Roig Cristina , González-To Mireia , Fernández-Silva Iria , Gonzalez-Ibeas Daniel , Blanca José , Aranda Miguel A , Arús Pere , Nuez Fernando , Monforte Antonio J , Picó Maria Belén , Garcia-Mas Jordi
Published: July 2009

Background

There are few genomic tools available in melon (Cucumis melo L.), a member of the Cucurbitaceae, despite its importance as a crop. Among these tools, genetic maps have been constructed mainly using marker types such as simple sequence repeats (SSR), restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) and amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLP) in different mapping populations. There is a growing need for saturating the genetic map with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), more amenable for high throughput analysis, especially if these markers are located in gene coding regions, to provide functional markers. Expressed sequence tags (ESTs) from melon are available in public databases, and resequencing ESTs or validating SNPs detected in silico are excellent ways to discover SNPs.

Results

EST-based SNPs were discovered after resequencing ESTs between the parental lines of the PI 161375 (SC) × 'Piel de sapo' (PS) genetic map or using in silico SNP information from EST databases. In total 200 EST-based SNPs were mapped in the melon genetic map using a bin-mapping strategy, increasing the map density to 2.35 cM/marker. A subset of 45 SNPs was used to study variation in a panel of 48 melon accessions covering a wide range of the genetic diversity of the species. SNP analysis correctly reflected the genetic relationships compared with other marker systems, being able to distinguish all the accessions and cultivars.

Conclusion

This is the first example of a genetic map in a cucurbit species that includes a major set of SNP markers discovered using ESTs. The PI 161375 × 'Piel de sapo' melon genetic map has around 700 markers, of which more than 500 are gene-based markers (SNP, RFLP and SSR). This genetic map will be a central tool for the construction of the melon physical map, the step prior to sequencing the complete genome. Using the set of SNP markers, it was possible to define the genetic relationships within a collection of forty-eight melon accessions as efficiently as with SSR markers, and these markers may also be useful for cultivar identification in Occidental melon varieties.
Uncovering the Arabidopsis thaliana nectary transcriptome: investigation of differential gene expression in floral nectariferous tissues
Authors: Kram Brian W , Xu Wayne W , Carter Clay J
Published: July 2009

Background

Many flowering plants attract pollinators by offering a reward of floral nectar. Remarkably, the molecular events involved in the development of nectaries, the organs that produce nectar, as well as the synthesis and secretion of nectar itself, are poorly understood. Indeed, to date, no genes have been shown to directly affect the de novo production or quality of floral nectar. To address this gap in knowledge, the ATH1 Affymetrix® GeneChip array was used to systematically investigate the Arabidopsis nectary transcriptome to identify genes and pathways potentially involved in nectar production.

Results

In this study, we identified a large number of genes differentially expressed between secretory lateral nectaries and non-secretory median nectary tissues, as well as between mature lateral nectaries (post-anthesis) and immature lateral nectaries (pre-anthesis). Expression within nectaries was also compared to thirteen non-nectary reference tissues, from which 270 genes were identified as being significantly upregulated in nectaries. The expression patterns of 14 nectary-enriched genes were also confirmed via RT PCR. Upon looking into functional groups of upregulated genes, pathways involved in gene regulation, carbohydrate metabolism, and lipid metabolism were particularly enriched in nectaries versus reference tissues.

Conclusion

A large number of genes preferentially expressed in nectaries, as well as between nectary types and developmental stages, were identified. Several hypotheses relating to mechanisms of nectar production and regulation thereof are proposed, and provide a starting point for reverse genetics approaches to determine molecular mechanisms underlying nectar synthesis and secretion.
Data enhancement for co-morbidity measurement among patients referred for sleep diagnostic testing: an observational study
Authors: Ronksley Paul E , Tsai Willis H , Quan Hude , Faris Peter , Hemmelgarn Brenda R
Published: July 2009

Background

Observational outcome studies of patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) require adjustment for co-morbidity to produce valid results. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the combination of administrative data and self-reported data provided a more complete estimate of co-morbidity among patients referred for sleep diagnostic testing.

Methods

A retrospective observational study of 2149 patients referred for sleep diagnostic testing in Calgary, Canada. Self-reported co-morbidity was obtained with a questionnaire; administrative data and validated algorithms (when available) were also used to define the presence of these co-morbid conditions within a two-year period prior to sleep testing.

Results

Patient self-report of co-morbid conditions had varying levels of agreement with those derived from administrative data, ranging from substantial agreement for diabetes (κ = 0.79) to poor agreement for cardiac arrhythmia (κ = 0.14). The enhanced measure of co-morbidity using either self-report or administrative data had face validity, and provided clinically meaningful trends in the prevalence of co-morbidity among this population.

Conclusion

An enhanced measure of co-morbidity using self-report and administrative data can provide a more complete measure of the co-morbidity among patients with OSA when agreement between the two sources is poor. This methodology will aid in the adjustment of these coexisting conditions in observational studies in this area.
Tularemia induces different biochemical responses in BALB/c mice and common voles
Authors: Bandouchova Hana , Sedlackova Jana , Pohanka Miroslav , Novotny Ladislav , Hubalek Martin , Treml Frantisek , Vitula Frantisek , Pikula Jiri
Published: July 2009

Background

Both BALB/c mice and common voles (Microtus arvalis) are considered highly susceptible to tularemia. However, the common vole is reported to harbour Francisella tularensis in European habitats as well as to survive longer with chronic shedding of the bacterium. The purpose of the present study was to compare the response of these two rodents to a wild Francisella tularensis subsp. holarctica strain infection.

Methods

Rodents were evaluated for differences in the total antioxidant capacity derived from low-molecular-weight antioxidants, biochemistry including lipid metabolism, tissue bacterial burdens and histopathology following experimental intraperitoneal infection with 160 colony forming units (CFU) pro toto.

Results

Bacterial burdens in common voles started to develop later post-exposure and amounted to lower levels than in BALB/c mice. Elevation of liver function enzymes was more pronounced in mice than common voles and there were marked differences in lipid metabolism in the course of tularemia in these two species. Hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia developed in mice, while physiologically higher levels of triglycerides and cholesterol showed a decreasing tendency in common voles.

On the other hand, the total plasma antioxidant capacity gradually dropped to 81.5% in mice on day 5 post-infection, while it increased to 130% on day 6 post-infection in common voles. Significant correlations between tissue bacterial burdens and several biochemical parameters were found.

Conclusion

As differences in lipid metabolism and the total antioxidant capacity of highly susceptible rodent species were demonstrated, the role of triglycerides, cholesterol and antioxidants in tularemic sepsis should be further investigated.
Identification of Makorin 1 as a novel SEREX antigen of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Shimada Hideaki , Shiratori Tooru , Yasuraoka Mari , Kagaya Akiko , Kuboshima Mari , Nomura Fumio , Takiguchi Masaki , Ochiai Takenori , Matsubara Hisahiro , Hiwasa Takaki
Published: July 2009

Background

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) represents one of the most malignant tumors. To improve the poor prognosis, it is necessary to diagnose esophageal SCC at early stages using new tumor markers. SEREX (serological identification of antigens by recombinant cDNA expression cloning) is suitable for large-scale screening of tumor antigens and has been applied for various types of human tumors.

Methods

Tumor markers of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were screened by SEREX method. The presence of serum anti-makorin 1 (MKRN1) antibodies (s-MKRN1-Abs) was examined by Western blotting using bacterially expressed MKRN1 protein. The expression levels of MKRN1 mRNA in tissues were examined by RT-PCR. The biological activity of MKRN1 was examined by transfection of ras-NIH3T3 mouse fibroblasts with MKRN1 cDNA. Major ubiquitinated proteins in MKRN1-transfected cells were identified by immunoprecipitation with anti-ubiquitin antibody followed by mass spectrometry.

Results

MKRN1 was identified as a novel SEREX antigen of esophageal SCC. Although a total of 18 (25%) of 73 patients with esophageal SCC had s-MKRN1-Abs, none of the 43 healthy donors had a detectable level of s-MKRN1-Abs. There was no correlation between the presence of s-MKRN1-Abs and clinicopathological variables other than histological grading. Well-differentiated tumors were associated significantly with the presence of s-MKRN1-Abs in the patients. The mRNA levels of MKRN1 were frequently higher in esophageal SCC tissues than in the peripheral normal esophageal mucosa. Stable transfection of ras-NIH3T3 cells with MKRN1 cDNA induced prominent morphological changes such as enlargement of the cell body and spreading. Ubiquitination of 80- and 82-kDa proteins were clearly observed in MKRN1-transfected cells but not in the parental cells, which were identified as L-FILIP (filamin A interacting protein 1).

Conclusion

MKRN1 is a novel SEREX antigen of esophageal SCC, and s-NKRN1-Abs can be a candidate of diagnostic markers of esophageal SCC with high specificity. It is plausible that MKRN1 is involved in carcinogenesis of the well-differentiated type of tumors possibly via ubiquitination of L-FILIP.
Characterization of MCF mammary epithelial cells overexpressing the Arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR)
Authors: Wong Patrick S , Li Wen , Vogel Christoph F , Matsumura Fumio
Published: July 2009

Background

Recent reports indicate the existence of breast cancer cells expressing very high levels of the Arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ubiquitous intracellular receptor best known for mediating toxic action of dioxin and related pollutants. Positive correlation between the degree of AhR overexpression and states of increasing transformation of mammary epithelial cells appears to occur in the absence of any exogenous AhR ligands. These observations have raised many questions such as why and how AhR is overexpressed in breast cancer and its physiological roles in the progression to advanced carcinogenic transformation. To address those questions, we hypothesized that AhR overexpression occurs in cells experiencing deficiencies in normally required estrogen receptor (ER) signaling, and the basic role of AhR in such cases is to guide the affected cells to develop orchestrated cellular changes aimed at substituting the normal functions of ER. At the same time, the AhR serves as the mediator of the cell survival program in the absence of ER signaling.

Methods

We subjected two lines of Michigan Cancer Foundation (MCF) mammary epithelial cells to 3 different types ER interacting agents for a number of passages and followed the changes in the expression of AhR mRNA. The resulting sublines were analyzed for phenotypical changes and unique molecular characteristics.

Results

MCF10AT1 cells continuously exposed to 17-beta-estradiol (E2) developed sub-lines that show AhR overexpression with the characteristic phenotype of increased proliferation, and distinct resistance to apoptosis. When these chemically selected cell lines were treated with a specific AhR antagonist, 3-methoxy-4-nitroflavone (MNF), both of the above abnormal cellular characteristics disappeared, indicating the pivotal role of AhR in expressing those cellular phenotypes. The most prominent molecular characteristics of these AhR overexpressing MCF cells were found to be overexpression of ErbB2 and COX-2. Furthermore, we could demonstrate that suppression of AhR functions through anti-AhR siRNA or MNF causes the recovery of ERalpha functions.

Conclusion

One of the main causes for AhR overexpression in these MCF breast cancer cells appears to be the loss of ERalpha functions. This phenomenon is likely to be based on the mutually antagonistic relationship between ER and AhR.
Interactive visualization of clusters in microarray data: an efficient tool for improved metabolic analysis of E. coli
Authors: Scharl Theresa , Striedner Gerald , Pötschacher Florentina , Leisch Friedrich , Bayer Karl
Published: July 2009

Background

Interpretation of comprehensive DNA microarray data sets is a challenging task for biologists and process engineers where scientific assistance of statistics and bioinformatics is essential. Interdisciplinary cooperation and concerted development of software-tools for simplified and accelerated data analysis and interpretation is the key to overcome the bottleneck in data-analysis workflows. This approach is exemplified by an interactive visualization toolbox based on cluster analysis. Clustering is an important tool in gene expression data analysis to find groups of co-expressed genes which can finally suggest functional pathways and interactions between genes. The visualization of gene clusters gives practitioners an understanding of the cluster structure of their data and makes it easier to interpret the cluster results.

Results

In this study the interactive visualization toolbox is applied to the interpretation of E. coli microarray data. The data sets derive from two fedbatch experiments conducted in order to investigate the impact of different induction strategies on the host metabolism and product yield. The software enables direct graphical comparison of these two experiments. The identification of potentially interesting gene candidates or functional groups is substantially accelerated and eased.

Conclusion

It was shown that is a very helpful tool to gain a general overview of microarray experiments. Interesting gene expression patterns can easily be found, compared among different experiments and combined with information about gene function from publicly available databases.
Assessment of the relative success of sporozoite inoculations in individuals exposed to moderate seasonal transmission
Authors: Tall Adama , Sokhna Cheikh , Perraut Ronald , Fontenille Didier , Marrama Laurence , Ly Alioune B , Sarr Fatoumata D , Toure Aïssatou , Trape Jean-François , Spiegel André , Rogier Christophe , Druilhe Pierre
Published: July 2009

Background

The time necessary for malaria parasite to re-appear in the blood following treatment (re-infection time) is an indirect method for evaluating the immune defences operating against pre-erythrocytic and early erythrocytic malaria stages. Few longitudinal data are available in populations in whom malaria transmission level had also been measured.

Methods

One hundred and ten individuals from the village of Ndiop (Senegal), aged between one and 72 years, were cured of malaria by quinine (25 mg/day oral Quinimax™ in three equal daily doses, for seven days). Thereafter, thick blood films were examined to detect the reappearance ofPlasmodium falciparumevery week, for 11 weeks after treatment. Malaria transmission was simultaneously measured weekly by night collection of biting mosquitoes.

Results

Malaria transmission was on average 15.3 infective bites per person during the 77 days follow up. The median reappearance time for the whole study population was 46.8 days, whereas individuals would have received an average one infective bite every 5 days. At the end of the follow-up, after 77 days, 103 of the 110 individuals (93.6%; CI 95% [89.0–98.2]) had been re-infected withP. falciparum. The median reappearance time ('re-positivation') was longer in subjects with patent parasitaemia at enrolment than in parasitologically-negative individuals (58 days vs. 45.9; p = 0.03) and in adults > 30 years than in younger subjects (58.6 days vs. 42.7; p = 0.0002). In a multivariate Cox PH model controlling for the sickle cell trait, G6PD deficiency and the type of habitat, the presence of parasitaemia at enrolment and age ≥ 30 years were independently predictive of a reduced risk of re-infection (PH = 0.5 [95% CI: 0.3–0.9] and 0.4; [95% CI: 0.2–0.6] respectively).

Conclusion

Results indicate the existence of a substantial resistance to sporozoites inoculations, but which was ultimately overcome in almost every individual after 2 1/2 months of natural challenges. Such a study design and the results obtained suggest that, despite a small sample size, this approach can contribute to assess the impact of intervention methods, such as the efficacy vector-control measures or of malaria pre-erythrocytic stages vaccines.
Food consumption frequency and perceived stress and depressive symptoms among students in three European countries
Authors: Mikolajczyk Rafael T , El Ansari Walid , Maxwell Annette E
Published: July 2009

Background

Certain foods might be more frequently eaten under stress or when higher levels of depressive symptoms are experienced. We examined whether poor nutritional habits are associated with stress and depressive symptoms and whether the relationships differ by country and gender in a sample from three European countries collected as part of a Cross National Student Health Survey.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among first-year students in Germany (N = 696), Poland (N = 489) and Bulgaria (N = 654). Self-administered questionnaires included a 12-item food frequency questionnaire, Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale, and a modified Beck Depression Index. Linear regression analyses were conducted for two outcomes, perceived stress and depressive symptoms.

Results

Food consumption frequencies differed by country and gender, as did depressive symptoms and perceived stress. For male students, none of the food consumption groups were associated with perceived stress or depressive symptoms. In females, perceived stress was associated with more frequent consumption of sweets/fast foods and less frequent consumption of fruits/vegetables. Additionally, depressive symptoms were associated with less frequent consumption of fruits/vegetables and meat.

Conclusion

Our data show consistent associations between unhealthy food consumption and depressive symptoms and perceived stress among female students from three European countries, but not among male students. This suggests that efforts to reduce depressive symptoms and stress among female students may also lead to the consumption of healthier foods and/or vice-versa.
Cross-packaging of genetically distinct mouse and primate retroviral RNAs
Authors: Al Dhaheri Noura Salem , Phillip Pretty Susan , Ghazawi Akela , Ali Jahabar , Beebi Elizabeth , Jaballah Soumeya Ali , Rizvi Tahir A
Published: July 2009

Background

The mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) is unique from other retroviruses in having multiple viral promoters, which can be regulated by hormones in a tissue specific manner. This unique property has lead to increased interest in studying MMTV replication with the hope of developing MMTV based vectors for human gene therapy. However, it has recently been reported that related as well as unrelated retroviruses can cross-package each other's genome raising safety concerns towards the use of candidate retroviral vectors for human gene therapy. Therefore, using a trans complementation assay, we looked at the ability of MMTV RNA to be cross-packaged and propagated by an unrelated primate Mason-Pfizer monkey virus (MPMV) that has intracellular assembly process similar to that of MMTV.

Results

Our results revealed that MMTV and MPMV RNAs could be cross-packaged by the heterologous virus particles reciprocally suggesting that pseudotyping between two genetically distinct retroviruses can take place at the RNA level. However, the cross-packaged RNAs could not be propagated further indicating a block at post-packaging events in the retroviral life cycle. To further confirm that the specificity of cross-packaging was conferred by the packaging sequences (ψ), we cloned the packaging sequences of these viruses on expression plasmids that generated non-viral RNAs. Test of these non-viral RNAs confirmed that the reciprocal cross-packaging was primarily due to the recognition of ψ by the heterologous virus proteins.

Conclusion

The results presented in this study strongly argue that MPMV and MMTV are promiscuous in their ability to cross-package each other's genome suggesting potential RNA-protein interactions among divergent retroviral RNAs proposing that these interactions are more complicated than originally thought. Furthermore, these observations raise the possibility that MMTV and MPMV genomes could also co-package providing substrates for exchanging genetic information.
Predictors of major infections in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ruiz-Irastorza Guillermo , Olivares Nerea , Ruiz-Arruza Ioana , Martinez-Berriotxoa Agustin , Egurbide Maria-Victoria , Aguirre Ciriaco
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Infections commonly complicate the course of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Our aim is to investigate the clinical predictors of major infections in patients with SLE.

Methods

A nested case–control study design was used within the prospective Lupus-Cruces cohort. The endpoints of the study were major infections. Cases were defined as patients with a major infection. Two controls (SLE patients without major infections), matched for time of follow-up until the event and age at diagnosis, were selected for each case. Univariate analysis and logistic regression models were used for the analysis of data.

Results

Two hundred and forty-nine patients (83 cases, 166 controls) were selected. Eighty-three episodes of major infections were analyzed; E. coli, S. aureus, M. tuberculosis and S. pneumoniae being the most frequent isolates. Univariate analysis identified several variables related with infection: lung and renal involvement, at or previous to the study point; leukopenia at the study point; antiphospholipid antibody-positivity and treatment with prednisone within 3 months previous to the study point, and the dose of prednisone received. Treatment with antimalarials, on the other hand, showed a strong inverse association with major infections. Logistic regression models identified treatment with antimalarials (odds ratio (OR) = 0.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.02 to 0.18), prednisone dose (OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.04 to 1.19) and lung involvement (OR = 4.41, 95% CI = 1.06 to 18.36) as significant and independent predictors of major infections. No significant interactions among these three variables were found. Further adjustment for potential confounders related with antimalarial treatment did not change the results.

Conclusions

The risk of major infections in patients with SLE is mostly influenced by treatment. Prednisone treatment, even at moderate doses, increases the risk, whilst antimalarials have a protective effect.
Identification of Traditionally Reared Mangalica Pig's Meat by near Infrared Spectroscopy Using Generalised Partial Least Squares in Open Source R Project—A Feasibility Model Study
Authors: Bázár György , Kövér György , Locsmándi László , Andrássy-Baka Gabriella , Romvári Róbert
Published: July 2009

The possibility for near infrared spectroscopy-based discrimination of meats originating from the extensively reared autochthonous breed of Mangalica and intensively reared commercial genotypes (Landrace, Large White, Landrace × Large White crossbreed) was investigated. Since there was a considerable difference between the intramuscular fat content of Mangalica and intensively-reared meats (average of 19.1 DM% vs 9.3 DM%, resp.), several sample selection options were applied to explore the impact of fat content on the results of NIR analysis. The system for discrimination was able to identify the different groups even when the discriminator equation was generated on very different samples and was tested on samples with overlapping fat content. The ratio of correctly classified samples was above 90% during cross-validation or for independent test samples of all comparisons, both in fresh or freeze-dried samples. Over 90% of independent fresh pork samples were correctly identified when the discriminator equation was generated with 70 randomly selected samples. This ratio increased up to over 95% when freeze-dried samples were applied. The generalised partial least squares package of open-source R Project seems to be a useful tool for qualitative analysis of NIR data recorded from meat samples.
Prediction of Water Content in Ligustrum Japonicum Leaf Using near Infrared Chemometric Imaging
Authors: Kobori Hikaru , Tsuchikawa Satoru
Published: July 2009

Leaf water content is one of the most important indicators of the plant growth status. However, the traditional measurement of leaf water content requires a destructive process. A new technique using near infrared (NIR) imaging with the aid of chemometrics was developed to predict leaf water content. This method makes it possible to evaluate the leaf water content without destruction. Ligustrum japonicum leaves were taken, and then the water content and spectroscopic images at the wavelength of 1450 nm were obtained by a vidicon camera fitted with a band-pass filter. A calibration model able to predict water content with high accuracy was found by partial least square analysis, using cumulative histograms based on the luminance brightness as the explanatory variables. This research confirmed the feasibility of NIR chemometric imaging to monitor the plant growth condition.
British surgeons' experiences of mandatory online workplace-based assessment
Authors: Pereira Erlick AC , Dean Benjamin JF
Published: July 2009

Summary

Objectives

An online workplace-based assessment tool, the Intercollegiate Surgical Curriculum Programme (ISCP), has become mandatory for all British surgical trainees appointed since August 2007. A compulsory £125 annual trainee fee has also been introduced to fund its running costs. The study sought to evaluate user satisfaction with the ISCP.

Design and setting

A total of 539 users across all surgical specialties (including 122 surgeons acting as assessors) were surveyed in late 2008 by online questionnaire regarding their experiences with the ISCP.

Results

Sixty-seven percent had used the tool for at least one year. It was rated above average by only 6% for its registration process and only 11% for recording meetings and objectives. Forty-nine percent described its online assessments as poor or very poor, only 9% considering them good or very good. Seventy-nine percent rated the website's user friendliness as average or worse, as did 72% its peer-assessment tool and 61% its logbook of procedures. Seventy-six percent of respondents had carried out paper assessments due to difficulties using the website. Six percent stated that the ISCP had impacted negatively on their training opportunities, 41% reporting a negative impact overall upon their training; only 6% reported a positive impact. Ninety-four percent did not consider the trainee fee good value, only 2% believing it should be paid by the trainee.

Conclusions

The performance of the ISCP leaves large numbers of British surgeons unsatisfied. Its assessments lack appropriate evidence of validity and its introduction has been problematic. With reducing training hours, the increased online bureaucratic burden exacerbates low morale of trainees and trainers, adversely impacting potentially upon both competency and productivity.
The Clinical, Radiological and Pathological Aspects of Pulmonary Hæm
Authors: Lendrum Alan C.
Published: July 2009

Dr. Lendrum followed and pointed out that the post-mortem examination had revealed in the first case the presence throughout the lungs of dark brown spots which gave a strongly positive prussian blue reaction.
Pneumonia of the Lobe of the Azygos Vein
Authors: Studdert T. C. , Turnbull A. K.
Published: July 2009

Pneumonia confined to the lobe of the Azygos Vein has been reported on several occasions, but perusal of recent literature has led the authors to consider that the following case history and radiographs are of sufficient interest to justify their publication.

An airman, aged 18 years, was transferred to an R.A.F. Hospital on June 30, 1946. A week previously he had been admitted to his station sick quarters with a feverish illness which had started quite suddenly with headache, fever, sweating, vomiting and a dry cough. The temperature was then 101°F, pulse 100 and respirations 24. During the next few days his general symptoms cleared, but the temperature did not settle completely, and the cough became productive, sputum at first being blood flecked and later yellowish. He had no gross physical signs in the chest at this time, and after the unit medical officer had given him 10 gm. of sulphapyridine, he decided to discontinue this and, suspecting tuberculosis, admitted him to hospital.

When first seen by one of us (T.C.S.) on June 30, 1946, he had no complaints, except for a productive cough. There had been no pain in the chest or breathlessness. His appetite was good. He was, however, a nervous boy, enuretic whilst in hospital, and prone to dizziness and “blackouts”. On examination, temperature was 99°F, pulse 60, respirations 18. The only physical sign detected in the chest was flattening of percussion note at the right apex, and all other systems were normal.
Correspondence
Authors: Dudley L.
Published: July 2009

My attention has been drawn to J. A. Ross's article on stereoscopic screening which appears in the April 1946 issue of the Journal, and it is thought that the following comments may be of some interest.
North of England Branch Notice
Authors: Gray E. D.
Published: July 2009

At the invitation of Dr. S. Whateley Davidson and Mr. C. J. L. Thurgar, a meeting of the branch will be held at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle-on-Tyne, on Saturday, March 15, 1947.

3 p.m. Business meeting followed by a short radiotherapy demonstration.
The Radiotherapeutic Treatment of Cancer Corporis Uteri
Authors: Heyman J.
Published: July 2009

I Believe that most gynæcologists and surgeons consider hysterectomy to be the method of choice in the treatment of cancer of the uterine corpus and I would not be surprised should many of my colleagues consider efforts to improve the radiotherapeutic technique in corpus cancer to be a waste of valuable time. For many years we have been taught that cancer of the corpus is a relatively rare disease, that hysterectomy in corpus cancer is a simple and harmless procedure which can be applied to at least 80 per cent. of the cases, and that the final results of hysterectomy are satisfactory.

Because of our experience at the Radiumhemmet during the last decades we have arrived at a some what different opinion.

We find that cancer of the corpus is not as rare a disease as is generally believed. Out of a hundred cases of cancer of the uterus, referred to the Radiumhemmet for treatment, between twenty to twenty-five are corpus cases. This is probably a minimum figure since all cases of cancer of the cervix occurring within the area of our activity are referred to us for radiotherapy, whereas still a considerable number of corpus cases are submitted to hysterectomy by specialists or by the general surgeons.

Hysterectomy may be a simple and harmless procedure. It is, however, definitely not applicable to 80 per cent. of the cases.
The Size of the Vaginal Vault in Relation to the Treatment of Cancer of the Cervix
Authors: Moore John , Tod Margaret
Published: July 2009

The possible arrangements of radium in the vagina for the treatment of cancer of the cervix are limited by the size and shape of the vault. This is true whether room is wanted to push applicators as far laterally as possible to irradiate the parametria, or to allow the insertion of a special applicator with heavy metal screenage to direct beams laterally from a central radium source.
Review
Authors: Harper R. A. Kemp
Published: July 2009

This well-known and popular publication has now reached a seventh edition, with Dr. L. L. Robbins taking over the part previously edited by Dr. H. E. Ruggles.
A Technique for Cerebral Angiography
Authors: Boardman Reginald H. , Vickers Anthony A.
Published: July 2009

A simple method of obtaining a satisfactory record of cerebral angiography is described. The method requires no special apparatus, and is applicable to any department.

We are indebted firstly to Mr. Brodie Hughes, for having been responsible for starting the work, to the Medical Superintendent, Colonel Samuel, for putting the facilities of the Hospital at our disposal, and to the carpenter, Mr. Brown, for the enthusiasm with which he built the tunnel and modified it as required.
A Report of Six Cases of Coxa Magna following Synovitis of the Hip Joint
Authors: McMurray Barry
Published: July 2009

Enlargement of the head of the femur occurs in several pathological conditions affecting the hip joint. Notable amongst these are congenital subluxation, pseudo-coxalgia and occasionally in suppurative or tuberculous arthritis.

Ferguson and Howorth (1934) described this condition following temporary synovitis of the hip, and the present series comprises six patients who developed progressive enlargement of the upper femoral epiphysis following synovitis.

The condition occurs before the fusion of the upper femoral epiphysis. The youngest patient was twenty-two months and the eldest fourteen years. The distribution between the sexes was equal; three of the patients were boys and three girls.

As in those cases recorded by Ferguson and Howorth, all the patients in this series had suffered from fairly severe infections during the six months preceding the development of hip symptoms.

The nature of this infection varied; two of the patients suffered from septic sores on the legs, one had suffered from repeated attacks of tonsillitis, one had a brain abscess, and one acute mastoiditis. The sixth, the youngest, however, had the history of a very severe and prolonged reaction following antidiphtheria inoculation, and it was considered at the time that the serum must have been contaminated.

The relationship of this condition to general infection can only be suggested, since young children often contact severe infections. Nevertheless, a careful history on each occasion elicited the fact that these children had been ill for periods exceeding five weeks.
The Importance of Fluoroscopy in the Investigation of Sinus Tracts of the Thorax
Authors: Riley T. Richard
Published: July 2009

A plea is made for the fluoroscopic examination of sinuses undergoing investigation with opaque contrast media. A method is described for preventing the backflow of iodised oil from a sinus opening. A case is described in which, without fluoroscopic examination, the position and extent of the sinus tract would have been difficult to determine.
I Cancer of the Stomach (from a Radiologist' Point of View)
Authors: Grout J. L. A.
Published: July 2009

At the outset I must make it quite clear that my contribution can in no way be considered under the title “X-ray Diagnosis”. My research into my past history, incomplete as it may be, has acted as a corrective to any aspiration I might have had to be called an “X-ray diagnostician”, whose magic is more potent in the search for the truth than the painstaking methods of the physician. I propose, therefore, to relate some of my experiences as a radiologist in radiology of the stomach. My task of reviewing these cases is by no means complete and my present communication can only be considered an introduction, which I hope will serve the purpose of this symposium.

It is not my intention to give a critical statistical analysis of the cases of cancer of the stomach, but from the data I have collected a quite good idea of the predominating clinical features can be extracted.

There are obviously some significant facts to be derived from these figures. Loss of weight is an almost invariable feature. The short duration of the symptoms, even in those cases in which the growth in the stomach is extensive and often inoperable, is perhaps the most disturbing feature of the disease. Loss of weight with a short gastro-intestinal history cannot be lightly disregarded even in the absence of negative radiological findings.
Indian Radiological Association
Authors: Rau P. Rama
Published: July 2009

I write to thank you on behalf of our Association and the Journal Committee for the greetings and good wishes conveyed in the September, 1947, issue of your Journal.
Review
Authors: Abeles F. M.
Published: July 2009

This rather concise book by one of Berg's collaborators surveys and brings up-to-date the views of the Berg school as they have developed since Berg's original study published in 1931. It is by no means a mere outline, nor a book for the beginner, in spite of its modest title.
Radioactive Iodine as a Diagnostic Aid for Intrathoracic Goitre
Authors: Ansell G. , Rotblat J.
Published: July 2009

The application of the radioactive tracer method to the diagnosis of intrathoracic goitre has been investigated using radioactive iodine and detecting its γ rays by the “in vivo” technique. A special apparatus was constructed which makes it possible to map out the area in which the radioactive material is contained. A case of intrathoracic goitre is described in which this technique has been used successfully.
Vertical Fracture of the Patella
Authors: Dommisse G. F. , Fainsinger M. H.
Published: July 2009

(1) A case of bilateral symmetrical vertical fractures of the patellæ due to indirect violence is presented.

(2) The differential diagnosis from bilateral bipartite patella and from traumatic separation of the latter is discussed.
The Diagnosis of Hydrops Fœtalis
Authors: Boldero J. L. , Kemp F. H.
Published: July 2009

Evidence is presented that cases of hydrops fœtalis can be diagnosed radiographically as early as the 26th week of pregnancy in the presence of three criteria:

(1) Straightening of the normal kyphosis of the fœtal spine with extension of the neck.

(2) Radiographic evidence of hydramnios.

(3) Evidence of iso-immunisation of the mother.
Review
Authors: Samuel Eric
Published: July 2009

The appearance of the third edition of this valuable textbook is welcome. Advances in the radiology of the gastro-intestinal tract are almost a daily occurrence and the author is to be congratulated for the manner in which the most recent advances have been incorporated into this edition.
The Pre-natal Radiological Diagnosis of Hydrops Fœtalis
Authors: Samuel Eric , Cohen Joel
Published: July 2009

(i) A case of hydrops fœtalis diagnosed by radiological means pre-natally is described.

(ii) The radiological signs of hydrops-fœtalis are described.

(iii) Experimental investigation was undertaken to investigate the means of production of the osteo-petrosis of the skeleton, noted in this case.

(iv) The relative value of the serological studies and the X-ray findings in the case recorded are discussed.