bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Schistosome infection is associated with enhanced whole‐blood IL‐10 secretion in response to cercarial excretory/secretory products
Authors: Turner J. D. , Meurs L. , Dool P. , Bourke C. D. , Mbow M. , Dièye T. N. , Mboup S. , Polman K. , Mountford A. P. 
Published: February 2013

SummaryInfection of the human host by schistosome parasites follows exposure of skin to free‐swimming cercariae and is aided by the release of excretory/secretory (E/S) material, which is rich in proteases and glycoconjugates. This material provides the initial stimulus to cells of the innate immune system. The study presented here is the first to examine human innate/early immune responsiveness to cercarial E/S in subjects from an area co‐endemic for Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium. We report that in infected participants, stimulation of whole‐blood cultures with cercarial E/S material (termed 0–3 hRP) caused the early (within 24 h) release of greater quantities of regulatory IL‐10, compared with uninfected controls. Elevated levels of IL‐10 but not pro‐inflammatory TNFα or IL‐8 were most evident in participants co‐infected with S. mansoni and S. haematobium and were accompanied by a higher 0–3 h RP‐specific IL‐10: TNFα ratio. We also report that glycosylated components within 0–3 h RP appear to be important factors in the stimulation of IL‐8, TNFα and IL‐10 production by whole‐blood cells.
Stratal architecture and platform evolution of an early Frasnian syn‐tectonic carbonate platform, Canning Basin, Australia
Authors: Chow Nancy , George Annette D. , Trinajstic Kate M. , Chen Zhong‐Qiang 
Published: February 2013

AbstractFacies architecture and platform evolution of an early Frasnian reef complex in the northern Canning Basin of north‐western Australia were strongly controlled by syn‐depositional faulting during a phase of basin extension. The margin‐attached Hull platform developed on a fault block of Precambrian basement with accommodation largely generated by movement along the Mount Elma Fault Zone. Recognition of major subaerial exposure and flooding surfaces in the Hull platform (from outcrop and drillcore) has enabled comparison of facies associations within a temporal framework and led to identification of three stages of platform evolution. Stage 1 records initial ramp development on the hangingwall dip slope with predominantly deep subtidal conditions that prevented any cyclic facies arrangements. This stage is characterised by basal siliciclastic deposits and a major deepening‐upward facies pattern that is capped by a sequence boundary towards the footwall (north‐west) and a major flooding surface towards the hangingwall. Stage 2 reflects the bulk of platform aggradation, significant platform growth towards the hangingwall and the development of reef margins and cyclic facies arrangements. Thickening of this stage towards the hangingwall indicates that accommodation was generated by rotation of the fault block and overlying platform. Stage 3 records a major flooding and backstep of the platform margin. The Hull platform illustrates important elements of margin‐attached carbonate platforms in a half‐graben setting, including: (i) prominent, but limited, coarse siliciclastic input that does not have a major detrimental effect on carbonate production near the rift margin in arid to semi‐arid settings; (ii) wedge‐shaped accommodation created by syn‐depositional rotation of fault blocks and tilting of the hangingwall dip slope, resulting in shallow‐water facies and subaerial exposure up‐dip of the rotational axis and deeper water facies down‐dip; and (iii) evolution of a ramp to rimmed shelf, coincident with a sequence boundary–flooding surface, that is accelerated by tilting of the hangingwall dip slope during fault‐block rotation.
Catabolism of l–methionine in the formation of sulfur and other volatiles in melon (Cucumis melo L.) fruit
Authors: Gonda Itay , Lev Shery , Bar Einat , Sikron Noga , Portnoy Vitaly , Davidovich‐Rikanati Rachel , Burger Joseph , Schaffer Arthur A. , Tadmor Ya'akov , Giovannonni James J. , Huang Mingyun , Fei Zhangjun , Katzir Nurit , Fait Aaron , Lewinsohn Efraim 
Published: February 2013

SummarySulfur‐containing aroma volatiles are important contributors to the distinctive aroma of melon and other fruits. Melon cultivars and accessions differ in the content of sulfur‐containing and other volatiles. l–methionine has been postulated to serve as a precursor of these volatiles. Incubation of melon fruit cubes with 13C‐ and 2H‐labeled l–methionine revealed two distinct catabolic routes into volatiles. One route apparently involves the action of an l‐methionine aminotransferase and preserves the main carbon skeleton of l‐methionine. The second route apparently involves the action of an l‐methionine‐γ–lyase activity, releasing methanethiol, a backbone for formation of thiol‐derived aroma volatiles. Exogenous l‐methionine also generated non‐sulfur volatiles by further metabolism of α–ketobutyrate, a product of l‐methionine‐γ–lyase activity. α–Ketobutyrate was further metabolized into l–isoleucine and other important melon volatiles, including non‐sulfur branched and straight‐chain esters. Cell‐free extracts derived from ripe melon fruit exhibited l‐methionine‐γ–lyase enzymatic activity. A melon gene (CmMGL) ectopically expressed in Escherichia coli, was shown to encode a protein possessing l‐methionine‐γ–lyase enzymatic activity. Expression of CmMGL was relatively low in early stages of melon fruit development, but increased in the flesh of ripe fruits, depending on the cultivar tested. Moreover, the levels of expression of CmMGL in recombinant inbred lines co‐segregated with the levels of sulfur‐containing aroma volatiles enriched with +1 m/z unit and postulated to be produced via this route. Our results indicate that l‐methionine is a precursor of both sulfur and non‐sulfur aroma volatiles in melon fruit.
Evidence‐based guidelines for anti‐allergic drug withdrawal times before allergen‐specific intradermal and IgE serological tests in dogs
Authors: Olivry Thierry , Saridomichelakis Manolis 
Published: February 2013

BackgroundAnti‐allergic drugs (e.g. antihistamines, glucocorticoids and ciclosporin) are often administered to dogs with atopic dermatitis to relieve pruritus and skin lesions. Allergen‐specific intradermal tests (IDT) and allergen‐specific IgE serological (ASIS) tests are used to characterize the allergens to which dogs are hypersensitive. Anti‐allergic drugs have the potential to influence the results or interpretation of these tests.ObjectivesTo provide evidence‐based recommendations for anti‐allergic drug withdrawal times beforeIDTandASIStests.MethodsThree citation databases and abstracts from international meetings were searched for relevant studies. Studies were grouped based on similar interventions and types of tests. Withdrawal times for each type of drug and test were then extrapolated from the study results.ResultsBefore the assessment of immediate reactions toIDT, proposed optimal withdrawal times for antihistamines, oral glucocorticoids, topical/otic glucocorticoids and ciclosporin are 7, 14, 14 and 0 days, respectively. Studies have provided no evidence for drug withdrawal prior toASIStests for oral ciclosporin or prednisone/prednisolone. Owing to a lack of studies, recommendations for withdrawal times beforeASIStests cannot be made for topical glucocorticoids and antihistamines.Conclusions and clinical importanceThese proposed withdrawal times are based on the existing evidence at the end of 2011. Care must be taken before extrapolating the suggested withdrawal times to other species, higher dosages, different formulations and/or durations of administration of tested drugs, as well as to other medications from the same category.
Complexin facilitates exocytosis and synchronizes vesicle release in two secretory model systems
Authors: Lin Ming‐Yi , Rohan Joyce G. , Cai Haijiang , Reim Kerstin , Ko Chien‐Ping , Chow Robert H. 
Published: February 2013

Key points
Knockout (KO) of complexin in mouse neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) and adrenal chromaffin cells causes a reduction and a loss in synchronicity in calcium‐mediated exocytosis.
A train of high‐frequency stimuli induces synaptic facilitation rather than depression in Complexin 1 KO NMJs, and the degree of facilitation is sensitive to calcium buffering.
There is a specific reduction of the vesicle pool close to the calcium channels in Complexin 2 KO chromaffin cells, which can be rescued by heterologous expression of either Complexin 1 or Complexin 2.
Complexin synchronizes vesicle release through facilitating vesicle and calcium channel coupling.
Abstract  Complexins (Cplxs) are small, SNARE‐associated proteins believed to regulate fast, calcium‐triggered exocytosis. However, studies have pointed to either an inhibitory and/or facilitatory role in exocytosis, and the role of Cplxs in synchronizing exocytosis is relatively unexplored. Here, we compare the function of two types of complexin, Cplx 1 and 2, in two model systems of calcium‐dependent exocytosis. In mouse neuromuscular junctions (NMJs), we find that lack of Cplx 1 significantly reduces and desynchronizes calcium‐triggered synaptic transmission; furthermore, high‐frequency stimulation elicits synaptic facilitation, instead of normal synaptic depression, and the degree of facilitation is highly sensitive to the amount of cytoplasmic calcium buffering. In Cplx 2‐null adrenal chromaffin cells, we also find decreased and desynchronized evoked release, and identify a significant reduction in the vesicle pool close to the calcium channels (immediately releasable pool, IRP). Viral transduction with either Cplx 1 or 2 rescues both the size of the evoked response and the synchronicity of release, and it restores the IRP size. Our findings in two model systems are mutually compatible and indicate a role of Cplx 1 and 2 in facilitating vesicle priming, and also lead to the new hypothesis that Cplxs may synchronize vesicle release by promoting coupling between secretory vesicles and calcium channels.
An interesting clinical scenario of patient with acute myocardial infarction with single coronary artery
Authors: Bhairappa Shivakumar , Bagi Vittal , Subramani Khamitkar Shankar Rao , Prasad Naviluru Madaiah 
Published: February 2013

Anomalous origin of the left main coronary artery from the right sinus of valsalva is an extremely rare condition. Right-sided single coronary trunk associated with rudimentary left coronary artery is probably the rarest. The clinical significance of single coronary artery (SCA) depends on its relationship with the great arteries. The causes of myocardial ischaemia in these arteries could be impaired vasodilator response, vascular compression between great arteries or atherosclerosis. We report a 42-year-old gentleman who presented with anterior wall myocardial infarction (MI) and thrombolysed with streptokinase. The coronary angiogram done revealed anomalous right SCA (Lipton type-RII/Yamanaka RIIA) with recanalised left anterior descending artery (LAD). In this case the cause of MI could be atherosclerotic, as this patient responded to thrombolytic therapy and coronary angiogram revealed recanalised LAD. This case highlights the fact that these anomalous arteries are susceptible to atherosclerosis as are normally arising coronary arteries.
PALLIATIVE AND END OF LIFE CARE IN PRISONS IN ENGLAND AND WALES: DO INEQUALITIES EXIST? A SURVEY OF HEALTHCARE MANAGERS
Authors: Fletcher A J , Payne S , Waterman D , Turner M 
Published: February 2013

IntroductionThe End of Life Care Strategy (2008) states: ‘high quality services should be available in all locations, including prisons’. Prisons have characteristics which potentially create inequalities in the delivery of care. A paucity of research means that the need for palliative and end of life care in prisons has not been established.Aims and MethodsTo quantify palliative and end of life care need, in adult prisons and identify strategies for enhancing care. A self-reported questionnaire was developed and distributed to 124 prisons.ResultsData obtained from 39 prisons (31.5% response rate), revealed that between 2010–2012, 68 prisoners required palliative care, 45 were considered for release to receive care in alternative locations, of which 20 were released. Factors preventing release included ongoing risk, failure to identify patients in a timely manner, and prisoners' wishes to remain in prison. Two-thirds of prisons had a palliative care policy; 28% had implemented the Gold Standards Framework; 54% the Liverpool Care Pathway or equivalent and 36% Advance Care Planning. Ninety percent of prisons had access to palliative care nurse specialists and 77% palliative medicine consultants.ConclusionsThe number of prisoners requiring palliative care is larger than expected. Although there is evidence of palliative care support and principles available, work is still required to ensure equity in end of life care provision for prisoners. Further research in this area, funded by Marie Curie Cancer Care, will begin in 2013.
CHANGES IN PLACE OF DEATH PREFERENCES IN PATIENTS RECEIVING SPECIALIST PALLIATIVE CARE: A RETROSPECTIVE CASE NOTE REVIEW
Authors: Evans R , Finucane A , Vanhegan L , Arnold L , Oxenham D 
Published: February 2013

IntroductionTo have choice and control over where death occurs is considered central to a good death. In recognition of this, most end of life care strategies promote the need to support people to die in their place of choice. Previous studies suggest that preferences may change over time, however few studies have examined the type of changes in preference that occur in patients receiving specialist palliative care (SPC).Aims and MethodsTo explore changes in preferred place of death (PPD) for patients receiving SPC; and to examine the pattern of these changes. A retrospective case note review of all patients who died under the care of Marie Curie Hospice Edinburgh during a 6-month period was undertaken (311 patients). Caldicott Guardian approval was given for this study.Results204 patients were asked about PPD more than once; 57% of these changed their mind at least once. Most changed from ‘preference unknown’ to home (33%) or to hospice (39%). 44% of patients who had an inpatient stay changed their preference compared to 27% who did not have an inpatient stay. Of those choosing the hospice, 88% had been an inpatient compared to 39% of those choosing home. The majority of patients wished to die in the location where they were asked about their preference: Care home: 100%, Hospice: 81% Home:78%.ConclusionsPreference for place of death changes; more patients make a categorical choice over time. Most patients choose a place they are familiar with. Patients who have experienced hospice admission are more likely to choose this option.
ENCOURAGING AND DISCOURAGING TALK ABOUT ILLNESS PROGRESSION, DYING AND DEATH: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF COMMUNICATION RESEARCH
Authors: Parry R H , Land V , Seymour J 
Published: February 2013

IntroductionCommunicating with patients about their feelings and preferences for the future is a challenging element of palliative care. Useful evidence exists, but most is embedded in social-scientific rather than clinical research.Aims and MethodsTo collate evidence about communication practices used in addressing sensitive future issues, from studies where patient/professional conversations have been recorded and analysed. To inform communication policy, practice and training. This innovative systematic review spanned social science, clinical and linguistics research. Using explicit criteria, we searched electronic databases and specialist sources. We used review and synthesis techniques appropriate for social-science research.Results2203 publications were initially identified. Of the 18 meeting the inclusion criteria, 5 were social science, five clinical and eight linguistics publications. Strong evidence (11/18) indicateshypothetical questionsare effective in encouraging people to address feelings and plans for uncertain and difficult futures. Moderate evidence (5/18) indicates that another way to create such opportunities entails usingcautious, euphemistic language; and that this provides distinctive opportunities for people to deflect or avoid the topic. Moderate evidence (3/21) indicates that people oftensteer such conversations towards more optimistic statements, which tends to stop further talk about difficult events.ConclusionsSocial-science, linguistic and clinical evidence is available to inform this skilled, often problematic element of care. There are different ways to provide opportunities to discuss feelings and plans in relation to end of life. Different ways have different results: better understandings of these will facilitate evidence-based communication. To fill gaps in knowledge, further research using recordings of authentic palliative care consultations is needed.
A PHASE I-II FEASIBILITY TRIAL OF CANCER CARER MEDICINES MANAGEMENT: AN OVERVIEW
Authors: Latter S , Hopkinson J , Richardson A , Lowson E , Duke S , Anstey S , Bennett M , Smith P , May C 
Published: February 2013

IntroductionSeventy-onepercent of people with cancer experience pain at the end of life (Teunissenet al2007). It is well established that family carers play a significant role in managing pain medication. Our scoping exercise of international literature repeatedly found that family carers lack information and confidence, with some holding beliefs that pain cannot be controlled and concerns about medication becoming addictive. Carers' roles have been neglected, with few interventions concerning pain management focusing specifically on carers, and a particular lack of UK research.Aims and MethodsA Phase I-II feasibility study, funded by Dimbleby Marie Curie, is being conducted (2013–2015) to develop a new Cancer Carer Medicines Management intervention and to test its feasibility, acceptability and efficacy to improve carers' knowledge, beliefs, skills and self-efficacy for pain medicines management, decrease carer strain and improve mood state. This will be achieved through: a rapid appraisal of research on interventions for carer management of end of life pain medicines; development and refinement of the intervention through user collaboration; and a feasibility trial involving nurses and carers in two sites, to inform a follow-on randomised control trial.ResultsPhase I will produce an educational intervention for delivery by palliative care nurses with family carers. Phase II will evaluate intervention impact on carer outcomes using validated questionnaires measuring carer pain medication knowledge, beliefs and skills; carer strain, self-efficacy and mood state. Secondary outcomes from validated questionnaires and interviews will include perceptions of patient pain, burden of the intervention, and factors inhibiting or facilitating intervention use.
IMPROVING THE DELIVERY OF HIV OUTPATIENT SERVICES IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
Authors: Gordge L , Selman L , Harding R , Higginson I J , Simms V , Penfold S , Powell R A , Mwangi-Powell F , Dowing J , Gikaara N , Munene G 
Published: February 2013

IntroductionThe majority of care for the 22.9 million people with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa is provided by HIV outpatient services. While the palliative care needs of HIV patients are well documented, it is not known how well HIV outpatient services meet these needs and evidence to improve service provision is lacking.Aims and MethodsTo explore the care provided by outpatient HIV services in Uganda and Kenya and identify ways of improving care to meet patient and family needs. Qualitative interviews were conducted with patients, carers and staff at 12 HIV outpatient facilities (six in Kenya, six in Uganda), translated into English and analysed thematically.Results189 people were interviewed (83 patients, 47 caregivers, 59 staff). Positive aspects of care related to staff attributes and teamwork, holistic care, medication provision and patient education. Gaps/challenges in care related to service efficiency, paediatric services, reaching rural areas, poverty and sustaining services financially. Services struggled to meet patient demand through lack of staff, resources and space. Drug availability was variable, but when good was highly valued by service users. Recommendations included improving existing services (organisation, medication provision and staff training) and providing additional services and outreach (transport, public health initiatives, nutritional programmes, financial support and care for extended family).ConclusionsOutpatient services struggled to meet the multidimensional needs of people living with HIV in the face of significant resource challenges. Findings can be used to improve outpatient care and direct financial resources. Collaboration with palliative care services may help to improve HIV outpatient care.
PSYCHO-STIMULANTS FOR DEPRESSION: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF EVIDENCE FROM RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIALS
Authors: Candy B , Jones L , Leurent B , Tookman A , King M 
Published: February 2013

IntroductionSymptoms of depression are common, disabling, and costly. In palliative care, where such symptoms may be considered unavoidable, they can go untreated. Antidepressants are not always effective and in palliative care may not be suitable. Psycho-stimulants are most commonly used in palliative care to treat opioid induced somnolence. They are known for elevating mood and reducing fatigue, and may offer an alternative to antidepressants. In 2006 we undertook the first systematic review of psycho-stimulants for depression (Candy 2008). We found, despite identifying 24 trials, inconclusive evidence on whether psycho-stimulants work. Since this review there have been new trials. Adding their findings to our earlier analyses may provide more of a definitive answer on the effect and safety of psycho-stimulants.Aims and MethodsTo update our systematic review of randomised controlled trials on the effectiveness of psycho-stimulants for the symptoms of depression.ResultsTo date we have identified six new trials. These trials appear of better quality in reporting than many of the earlier trials. Preliminary analysis that combines the findings of the new trials with those found earlier, suggests the evidence on the impact and safety of psycho-stimulants in the treatment of symptoms of depression may be clearer.ConclusionsBy March 2013 we will have completed our update. Our new findings will provide more information on whether psycho-stimulants can be classed as an alternative to antidepressants. Our findings will also provide up-to-date information on whether or not there is a need to invite more patients to undergo further trials.