bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A single amino acid exchange shifts the serological reactivity of the novel HLA‐B*4442 allele product from HLA‐B44 to HLA‐B21
Authors: Mrazek F. , Fae I. , Ambruzova Z. , Raida L. , Kriegova E. , Indrak K. , Fischer G. F. , Petrek M. 
Published: May 2006

SummaryA novel HLA‐B (human leukocyte antigen‐B) allele, HLA‐B*4442, was identified both in a Czech patient with leukaemia and in his mother. The presence of a novel allele was initially suspected because conflicting results were obtained by serological and DNA typing techniques. The HLA typing using the polymerase chain reaction–sequence‐specific primers (PCR–SSP) at the two‐digit level indicated an allele belonging to the HLA‐B*44 group, whereas serological typing indicated HLA‐B21. Typing with PCR–sequence‐specific oligonucleotides (PCR–SSO) resulted in a unique reaction pattern that could not be assigned to a known allele, PCR–SSP typing at the four‐digit level did not match any known B*44 allele, either. The sequencing‐based typing of the HLA‐B locus then revealed the novel B*4442 allele that is identical with B*4405 except a single C→G nucleotide exchange at position 572. This exchange results in an amino acid substitution from serine to tryptophan at position 167 of the expressed HLA‐B protein. The B21 serological reactivity of the novel B*4442 allele product was confirmed by employing an additional serological panel of typing sera. Our findings support previous reports claiming that serine at the position 167 in the alpha‐2 domain of the HLA‐B protein is a major determinant of the HLA‐B44(12) serological epitope.
Identification of Bruton tyrosine kinase mutations in 12 Chinese patients with X‐linked agammaglobulinaemia by long PCR‐direct sequencing
Authors: Chan K‐W. , Chen T. , Jiang L. , Fok S. F‐S. , Lee T‐L. , Lee B‐W. , Yang X. , Lau Y‐L. 
Published: May 2006

SummaryX‐linked agammaglobulinaemia (XLA) is an immunodeficiency caused by Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) gene mutations. The disease is characterized by recurrent bacterial infections and profound hypogammaglobulinemia with marked reduction or lack of mature B‐cells in the peripheral blood. Molecular characterization of BTK gene provides an opportunity for definitive diagnosis of XLA patients, especially for those with atypical phenotype resulting in a milder or late‐onset form of the disease. The diagnosis allows accurate carrier detection with subsequent genetic counselling and prenatal diagnosis. In this study, long polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐direct sequencing analysis of the BTK gene in 12 unrelated Chinese XLA patients had been performed. Eight recurrent mutations and four novel mutations were identified. This is the first report of Chinese cases from three different East Asia regions together, including Hong Kong, Singapore and mainland China. Future clinical and genetic information from the undiagnosed Chinese XLA patients may provide insight into the genotype–phenotype correlations of BTK gene.
Dinucleotide repeat polymorphism in intron II of human Toll‐like receptor 2 gene and susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Lee E. Y. , Yim J‐J. , Lee H. S. , Lee Y. J. , Lee E. B. , Song Y. W. 
Published: May 2006

SummaryHuman Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) participate in innate immune response and signal the activation of adaptive immunity. The presence of a functional intronic polymorphism consisting of guanine–thymine repeats in TLR2 gene was recently reported. Here, we investigated a dinucleotide repeat polymorphism in intron II of TLR2 in Korean patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).The numbers of guanine–thymine [(GT)n] repeats in intron II of the TLR 2 gene were counted in 183 patients with RA and in 148 healthy controls, using the gene scanning technique. We classified alleles into two subclasses for further analysis, 12–16 GT repeats (S allele) and 17–28 repeats (L allele). By subgroup analysis, we also examined whether the S allele is associated with the presence of shared epitope (SE), rheumatoid factor (RF), joint erosion and extra‐articular complications.S‐allele frequency was significantly increased in patients with RA than in healthy controls [30.3% vs. 23.0%, P = 0.03, or 1.46, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–2.07], and genotypes containing S alleles were more frequent in patients with RA than in healthy controls (54.4% vs. 46.5%. P = 0.04, or 1.57, 95% CI 1.01–2.42). A skewed S‐allele distribution was not found to be related to the presence of SE. Subgroup analysis showed no genotypic or allele frequency differences between patients with/without RF, joint erosion, or extra‐articular complications.Genotype containing shorter GT repeats in intron II of the TLR2 gene may confer susceptibility to RA in Koreans.
Effects of ageing on touch
Authors: Wickremaratchi M M , Llewelyn J G 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
A decline in the main sensory modalities is well reported to occur with ageing. This article outlines the normal pathways involved in touch sensation and includes a review of available evidence relating to the study of ageing and touch. The authors try to use what is known about the neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of ageing to explain the impact on some broad functional deficits seen in the elderly population. The importance of understanding how the normal ageing process affects touch sensation is emphasised.
THE REACTION OF METHYL RADICALS WITH METHYL ALCOHOL
Authors: Shannon T. W. , Harrison A. G. 
Published: May 2006

The photolysis of acetone in the presence of methyl alcohol and of methyl-d3 alcohol has been studied between 406 and 472° K. The rates and Arrhenius parameters for the following abstraction reactions have been determined:[Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text]At 182 °C the rate of reaction [b] is found to be approximately four times greater than the rate of reaction [c].
A critique of the Brushing for Life programme
Authors: Downer Martin C , Drugan Caroline S , Blinkhorn Anthony S 
Published: May 2006

Background and objective Brushing for Life is intended to promote regular brushing of children’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste. The programme is delivered by health visitors who provide toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental health education material at children’s 8, 18 and 36 month development checks. The purpose of the present paper was to suggest how all aspects of the programme could be comprehensively assessed; to consider the prospects for its success in the light of evidence from the literature; to review the role of the programme within the wider field of oral health promotion; and to examine appropriate approaches to a quantitative evaluation of its outcome compared with alternatives. Methods Evaluative reports, and studies of the benefits of toothbrushing in young children published in the literature, were collated. Relevant information was abstracted and assessed and a comprehensive evaluative approach to the programme was constructed and presented. Results Good practice in dental public health suggested that following implementation, it would be important to ensure that the scheme was fully monitored and evaluated to establish that it was working effectively and giving value for money. Conclusions Adoption of the programme as a national population-based strategy for the prevention of dental disease in children should depend on its being shown to be effective and economically efficient.
Sex and relationships education in schools - Evaluation of a pilot programme for the certification of community nurses
Authors: Chalmers Helen , Tyrer Paul , Aggleton Peter 
Published: May 2006

Objective In support of the UK Government’s teenage pregnancy and sexual health strategies, a certificated programme of professional development for school nurses and other community nurses was developed to provide support for personal, social and health education (PSHE) work, including sex and relationships education (SRE), for young people. Design and setting This paper reports on findings from a multi-method formative evaluation of the pilot programme, which commenced in June 2003 and focused on six of the nine centres taking part: namely Sunderland, Lancashire, Birmingham, Hertfordshire, Ealing and Plymouth. Method Face-to-face and telephone interviews took place with national officers, local leads, community nurses on the programme, their line managers, professional colleagues working with the community nurses, and national assessors. Data were collected using semi-structured interview schedules. Partial transcription of tape recordings and notes took place and a thematic analysis was carried out using constant comparative method. Results The evaluation of the programme suggests considerable benefits for local collaborative working between health and education. In addition, nurses who undertook the programme gained in confidence and skill. Some tensions remain including concern about the need for dedicated time for nurses to complete the programme. Conclusion Findings suggest that a well-designed scheme of the type described is likely to be well received by community nurses and facilitates cooperative working between health and education in the support of PSHE and SRE. There is a need to respect the unique contribution of the community nurse and to value the one-to-one work that she does.
Motivation for weight-loss diets: A clustering, longitudinal field study using self-esteem and self-determination theory perspectives
Authors: Georgiadis Manolis M , Biddle Stuart JH , Stavrou Nektarios A 
Published: May 2006

Background Gradual elevation of body weight leads numerous individuals to dieting and weight loss behaviours. Nevertheless, the prevalence of obesity continues to rise in industrialised countries. The examination of the motivational determinants of dietary modification (‘dieting’) in order to identify clusters of individuals in the first 6 months of their effort to control body weight was the aim of the current study. The theories of self-determination and self-esteem formation guided our analysis. Methods A longitudinal study was conducted with three data collection points (N1=256; N2=135; N3=75). Data were responses on the Treatment Self Regulation Questionnaire, Social Physique Anxiety Scale, Physical Self-Description Questionnaire, Kaiser Physical Activity Survey Questionnaire, and items assessing expectations of achievement and self-confidence. Results Cluster analyses provided stable and validated cluster profiles for all data sets. In the 1st and 2nd data sets, results revealed three groups of dieters labelled as ‘media victims’, ‘try to feel nice’ and ‘older and experienced’. For the 3rd data set, results supported a 4-group solution (‘less adaptive profile’, ‘second successful dieters’, ‘successful dieters’, and ‘unsuccessful dieters’). The need for autonomous versus controlling dieting reasons based on Self-Determination Theory, along with the need for an alternative paradigm in weight management, are proposed. Conclusions Psychological theories of self-determination and self-esteem provide important ways of understanding and identifying adaptive and less adaptive weight control strategies.
Exploring photosynthesis evolution by comparative analysis of metabolic networks between chloroplasts and photosynthetic bacteria
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Zhu Xin-Guang , Chen Yazhu , Li Yuanyuan , Hou Jing , Li Yixue , Liu Lei 
Published: May 2006

Abstract

Background
Chloroplasts descended from cyanobacteria and have a drastically reduced genome following an endosymbiotic event. Many genes of the ancestral cyanobacterial genome have been transferred to the plant nuclear genome by horizontal gene transfer. However, a selective set of metabolism pathways is maintained in chloroplasts using both chloroplast genome encoded and nuclear genome encoded enzymes. As an organelle specialized for carrying out photosynthesis, does the chloroplast metabolic network have properties adapted for higher efficiency of photosynthesis? We compared metabolic network properties of chloroplasts and prokaryotic photosynthetic organisms, mostly cyanobacteria, based on metabolic maps derived from genome data to identify features of chloroplast network properties that are different from cyanobacteria and to analyze possible functional significance of those features.

Results
The properties of the entire metabolic network and the sub-network that consists of reactions directly connected to the Calvin Cycle have been analyzed using hypergraph representation. Results showed that the whole metabolic networks in chloroplast and cyanobacteria both possess small-world network properties. Although the number of compounds and reactions in chloroplasts is less than that in cyanobacteria, the chloroplast's metabolic network has longer average path length, a larger diameter, and is Calvin Cycle -centered, indicating an overall less-dense network structure with specific and local high density areas in chloroplasts. Moreover, chloroplast metabolic network exhibits a better modular organization than cyanobacterial ones. Enzymes involved in the same metabolic processes tend to cluster into the same module in chloroplasts.

Conclusion
In summary, the differences in metabolic network properties may reflect the evolutionary changes during endosymbiosis that led to the improvement of the photosynthesis efficiency in higher plants. Our findings are consistent with the notion that since the light energy absorption, transfer and conversion is highly efficient even in photosynthetic bacteria, the further improvements in photosynthetic efficiency in higher plants may rely on changes in metabolic network properties.
Genome-wide isolation of growth and obesity QTL using mouse speed congenic strains
Authors: Farber Charles R , Corva Pablo M , Medrano Juan F 
Published: May 2006

Abstract

Background

High growth (hg) modifier and background independent quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting growth, adiposity and carcass composition were previously identified on mouse chromosomes (MMU) 1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 11 and 17. To confirm and further characterize each QTL, two panels of speed congenic strains were developed by introgressing CAST/EiJ (CAST) QTL alleles onto either mutant C57Bl/6J-hg/hg (HG) or wild type C57Bl/6J (B6) genetic backgrounds.

Results
The first speed congenic panel was developed by introgressing four overlapping donor regions spanning MMU2 in its entirety onto both HG and B6 backgrounds, for a total of eight strains. Phenotypic characterization of the MMU2 panel confirmed the segregation of multiple growth and obesity QTL and strongly suggested that a subset of these loci modify the effects of the hg deletion. The second panel consisted of individual donor regions on an HG background for each QTL on MMU1, 5, 8, 9, 11 and 17. Of the six developed strains, five were successfully characterized and displayed significant differences in growth and/or obesity as compared to controls. All five displayed phenotypes similar to those originally attributed to each QTL, however, novel phenotypes were unmasked in several of the strains including sex-specific effects.

Conclusion
The speed congenic strains developed herein constitute an invaluable genomic resource and provide the foundation to identify the specific nature of genetic variation influencing growth and obesity.
Experiences and perceptions of people with headache: a qualitative study
Authors: Leiper Deborah A , Elliott Alison M , Hannaford Philip C 
Published: May 2006

Abstract

Background
Few qualitative studies of headache have been conducted and as a result we have little in-depth understanding of the experiences and perceptions of people with headache. The aim of this paper was to explore the perceptions and experiences of individuals with headache and their experiences of associated healthcare and treatment.

Methods
A qualitative study of individuals with headache, sampled from a population-based study of chronic pain was conducted in the North-East of Scotland, UK. Seventeen semi-structured interviews were conducted with adults aged 65 or less. Interviews were analysed using the Framework approach utilising thematic analysis.

Results
Almost every participant reported that they were unable to function fully as a result of the nature and unpredictability of their headaches and this had caused disruption to their work, family life and social activities. Many also reported a negative impact on mood including feeling depressed, aggressive or embarrassed. Most participants had formed their own ideas about different aspects of their headache and several had searched for, or were seeking, increased understanding of their headache from a variety of sources. Many participants reported that their headaches caused them constant worry and anguish, and they were concerned that there was a serious underlying cause. A variety of methods were being used to manage headaches including conventional medication, complementary therapies and self-developed management techniques. Problems associated with all of these management strategies emerged.

Conclusion
Headache has wide-ranging adverse effects on individuals and is often accompanied by considerable worry. The development of new interventions or educational strategies aimed at reducing the burden of the disorder and associated anxiety are needed.
The added value of C-reactive protein to clinical signs and symptoms in patients with obstructive airway disease: results of a diagnostic study in primary care
Authors: Schneider Antonius , Dinant Geert-Jan , Maag Inko , Gantner Lutz , Meyer Joachim Franz , Szecsenyi Joachim 
Published: May 2006

Abstract

Background
To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of clinical signs and symptoms, C-reactive protein (CRP) and spirometric parameters and determine their interrelation in patients suspected to have an obstructive airway disease (OAD) in primary care.

Methods
In a cross sectional diagnostic study, 60 adult patients coming to the general practitioner (GP) for the first-time with complaints suspicious for obstructive airway disease (OAD) underwent spirometry. Peak expiratory flow (PEF)-variability within two weeks was determined in patients with inconspicuous spirometry. Structured medical histories were documented and CRP was measured. The reference standard was the Tiffeneau ratio (FEV1/VC) in spirometry and the PEF-variability. OAD was diagnosed when FEV1/VC ≤ 70% or PEF-variability > 20%.

Results
37 (62%) patients had OAD. The best cut-off value for CRP was found at 2 mg/l with a diagnostic odds ratio (OR) of 4.4 (95% CI 1.4–13.8). Self-reported wheezing was significantly related with OAD (OR 3.4; CI 1.1–10.3), whereas coughing was inversely related (OR 0.2; CI 0.1–0.7). The diagnostic OR of CRP increased when combined with dyspnea (OR 8.5; 95% CI 1.7–42.3) or smoking history (OR 8.4; 95% CI 1.5–48.9). CRP (p = 0.004), FEV1 (p = 0.001) and FIV1 (p = 0.023) were related with the severity of dyspnea. CRP increased with the number of cigarettes, expressed in pack years (p = 0.001).

Conclusion
The diagnostic accuracy of clinical signs and symptoms was low. The diagnostic accuracy of CRP improved in combination with dyspnea and smoking history. Due to their coherence with the severity of dyspnea and number of cigarettes respectively, CRP and spirometry might allow risk stratification of patients with OAD in primary care. Further studies need to be done to confirm these findings.
AIB1 gene amplification and the instability of polyQ encoding sequence in breast cancer cell lines
Authors: Wong Lee-Jun C , Dai Pu , Lu Jyh-Feng , Lou Mary Ann , Clarke Robert , Nazarov Viktor 
Published: May 2006

Abstract

Background
The poly Q polymorphism in AIB1 (amplified in breast cancer) gene is usually assessed by fragment length analysis which does not reveal the actual sequence variation. The purpose of this study is to investigate the sequence variation of poly Q encoding region in breast cancer cell lines at single molecule level, and to determine if the sequence variation is related to AIB1 gene amplification.

Methods
The polymorphic poly Q encoding region of AIB1 gene was investigated at the single molecule level by PCR cloning/sequencing. The amplification of AIB1 gene in various breast cancer cell lines were studied by real-time quantitative PCR.

Results
Significant amplifications (5–23 folds) of AIB1 gene were found in 2 out of 9 (22%) ER positive cell lines (in BT-474 and MCF-7 but not in BT-20, ZR-75-1, T47D, BT483, MDA-MB-361, MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-330). The AIB1 gene was not amplified in any of the ER negative cell lines. Different passages of MCF-7 cell lines and their derivatives maintained the feature of AIB1 amplification. When the cells were selected for hormone independence (LCC1) and resistance to 4-hydroxy tamoxifen (4-OH TAM) (LCC2 and R27), ICI 182,780 (LCC9) or 4-OH TAM, KEO and LY 117018 (LY-2), AIB1 copy number decreased but still remained highly amplified. Sequencing analysis of poly Q encoding region of AIB1 gene did not reveal specific patterns that could be correlated with AIB1 gene amplification. However, about 72% of the breast cancer cell lines had at least one under represented (<20%) extra poly Q encoding sequence patterns that were derived from the original allele, presumably due to somatic instability. Although all MCF-7 cells and their variants had the same predominant poly Q encoding sequence pattern of (CAG)3CAA(CAG)9(CAACAG)3(CAACAGCAG)2CAA of the original cell line, a number of altered poly Q encoding sequences were found in the derivatives of MCF-7 cell lines.

Conclusion
These data suggest that poly Q encoding region of AIB1 gene is somatic unstable in breast cancer cell lines. The instability and the sequence characteristics, however, do not appear to be associated with the level of the gene amplification.