bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nuclear localization of the mutant protein phosphatase abi1 is required for insensitivity towards ABA responses in Arabidopsis
Authors: Moes Danièle , Himmelbach Axel , Korte Arthur , Haberer Georg , Grill Erwin 
Published: February 2008

SummaryABI1, a protein phosphatase 2C, is a key component of ABA signal transduction in Arabidopsis that regulates numerous ABA responses, such as stomatal closure, seed germination and inhibition of vegetative growth. The abi1‐1 mutation, so far the only characterized dominant allele for ABI1, impairs ABA responsitivity in both seeds and vegetative tissues. The site of action of ABI1 is unknown. We show that there is an essential requirement for nuclear localization of abi1 to confer insensitivity towards ABA responses. Transient analyses in protoplasts revealed a strict dependence of wild‐type ABI1 and mutant abi1 on a functional nuclear localization sequence (NLS) for regulating ABA‐dependent gene expression. Arabidopsis lines with ectopic expression of various abi1 forms corroborated the necessity of a functional NLS to control ABA sensitivity. Disruption of the NLS function in abi1 rescued ABA‐controlled gene transcription to wild‐type levels, but also attenuated abi1‐conferred insensitivity towards ABA during seed germination, root growth and stomatal movement. The mutation in the PP2C resulted in a preferential accumulation of the protein in the nucleus. Application of a proteosomal inhibitor led to both a preferential nuclear accumulation of ABI1 and an enhancement of PP2C‐dependent inhibitory action on the ABA response. Thus, abi1‐1 acts as a hypermorphic allele, and ABI1 reprograms sensitivity towards ABA in the nucleus.
Can ecological and evolutionary arguments solve the riddle of the missing marine insects?
Authors: Ruxton Graeme D. , Humphries Stuart 
Published: February 2008

AbstractWe critically appraise the recent literature on the paucity of marine insects and conclude that this near‐absence does demand explanation; but this explanation is unlikely to be found in the suggested problems of depth for insect respiratory systems. We tentatively suggest some areas where further consideration may yield fruitful answers to this long‐standing evolutionary riddle.
Rectal tuberculosis: A rare cause of recurrent rectal suppuration
Authors: Samarasekera D. N. , Nanayakkara P. R. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractTuberculosis affecting the rectum is a rare extra‐pulmonary form of the disease that needs recognition, because it requires specific treatment and avoids multiple, unwarranted surgical interventions. The following discussion is centred on a case of rectal tuberculosis, a disease that rarely affects the anorectal region. The condition was diagnosed on histology and was successfully treated medically with complete resolution.
Trends in colorectal day case surgery in NHS Trusts between 1998 and 2005
Authors: Faiz O. D. , Brown T. J. , Colucci G. , Grover M. , Clark S. K. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractObjective  Day case surgery is safe and offers potential benefits to both patients and healthcare providers. This study aimed to describe national changes in colorectal day case workload between 1998 and 2005.Methods  Admission data relating to Office of Population Censuses and Surveys Classification of Surgical Operations and Procedures (4th revision) (OPCS‐4) coloproctology operation codes were analysed using the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) database. Day case rates (DCRs) were calculated as the proportion of elective cases performed on an ambulatory basis.Results  In total, 3 119 058 colorectal admissions were recorded on the HES database between 1998 and 2005; 1 891 474 (61%) of these were for lower gastrointestinal endoscopies. Emergency cases accounted for 527 665 (17%), elective inpatient cases for 406 368 (13%) and elective day cases for 293 551 (9%) admissions. Throughout the study period the DCRs for five commonly performed elective colorectal procedures were: 0.70 for anal lesion excisions (OPCS‐4 codes: H48.1, H48.2 and H48.3); 0.16 for haemorrhoidectomy (OPCS‐4 code: H51.1); 0.63 for anal fissure procedures (OPCS‐4 codes: H56.2 and H56.4); 0.39 for elective procedures for anal fistula (OPCS‐4 codes: H55.1, H55.2, H55.3 and H55.4); 0.37 for elective pilonidal surgery (OPCS‐4 codes: H59 and H60.2). Two emergency operations, drainage of perianal and pilonidal abscesses (OPCS‐4 codes: H58.2 and H60.3 respectively), were identified as operations potentially amenable to day surgery. Over the seven study years, an annual average of 8559 (±SD 307) admissions were coded to drainage of a perianal abscess and 4676 (±SD 478) admissions to drainage of pilonidal abscess. The average annual bed usage associated with these procedures was 18 831 (±SD 718) and 7623 (±SD 436) bed days respectively.Conclusions  Colorectal day case surgery is currently under‐exploited in the NHS. By lifting some of the barriers to day case surgery significant resource savings may be possible.
The changing impact of age on colorectal cancer surgery. A trend analysis
Authors: Nascimbeni R. , Di Fabio F. , Di Betta E. , Salerni B. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractObjective  The aim of the study was to evaluate the changing influence of age on the outcomes of colorectal cancer surgery in a retrospective trend analysis.Methods  Data on 985 patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery were collected during 1975–1984 and 1995–2004. Variables and outcomes of patients aged < 65, 65–74, 75–84 and 85+ years were compared with intra‐ and interdecade analyses. Endpoints of the study were postoperative mortality, 5‐year overall and cancer‐related survivals.Results  The rate of elderly patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery increased significantly from 1975–1984 to 1995–2004. Distribution of American Society of Anesthesiology score and cancer stage remained unchanged over time. The rate of palliative procedures decreased over time, most significantly in the older age groups. In 1995–2004 the palliation rate was similar across all age groups. The rate of emergency surgery also decreased, but it remained higher in older age groups. Operative mortality rate decreased over time across all age groups, but age‐related differences were still observed in the 1995–2004 series. Cancer‐related survival after curative surgery increased from 58% in 1975–1984 to 64% in 1995–2004 in 75+ years patients, while it increased from 56% to 78% in patients aged 74 years or younger.Conclusions  Elderly patients with colorectal cancer benefited substantially from healthcare progress during the last 30 years. The reduction of palliative procedures and the decline in operative mortality document the efficacy of not restricting the access to radical surgery for these patients.
Preoperative conditioning with oral carbohydrate loading and oral nutritional supplements can be combined with mechanical bowel preparation prior to elective colorectal resection
Authors: Hendry P. O. , Balfour A. , Potter M. A. , Mander B. J. , Bartolo D. C. C. , Anderson D. N. , Fearon K. C. H. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractObjective  Preoperative conditioning with oral fluid and carbohydrate (CHO) loading allows the patient to undergo surgery in the fed state and is associated with reduced postoperative insulin resistance. Further benefit may accrue from oral nutritional supplements (ONS) to counteract the fasting associated with mechanical bowel preparation (MBP). In this study we assess the ability to prescribe, dispense and have patients comply with a protocol combining preoperative ONS and CHO/fluid loading during MBP.Method  One hundred and forty‐seven patients undergoing elective left colonic or rectal resection were recruited to an Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) programme. All patients were prescribed MBP (2 sachets Picolax). On the daytime prior to surgery, eligible patients were prescribed 2 × 200 ml of ONS (Fortijuice®, Nutricia) and in the evening 800 ml oral CHO/fluid loading (Preop®, Nutricia,). Patients were prescribed a further 400 ml of oral/CHO/fluid on the morning of surgery 2 h prior to induction of anaesthesia. Protocol compliance was audited prospectively.Results  One hundred and forty‐seven patients received MBP. Twenty‐three patients were ineligible for oral CHO/fluid loading [diabetes (n = 22), allergy to lemon flavoured drinks (n = 1)]. Fourteen patients did not receive the preoperative CHO drinks due to failure to prescribe (n = 8) or dispense (n = 6). One hundred and ten patients were dispensed the combined ONS and CHO/fluid loading regimen, compliance rates were 83% with ONS, 80% with CHO/fluid loading and 74% with both.Conclusion  Approximately 74% of patients undergoing MBP can comply with preoperative conditioning with ONS and CHO/fluid loading. Prescription and dispensing requires close attention to detail.
Pneumococcal pneumonia in HIV‐infected patients by antiretroviral therapy periods
Authors: Saindou M , Chidiac C , Miailhes P , Voirin N , Baratin D , Amiri M , Livrozet J‐M , Touraine J‐L , Trepo C , Peyramond D , Vanhems P 
Published: February 2008

ObjectiveTo ascertain the relationship between periods of various antiretroviral therapies and the incidence of first community‐acquired pneumococcal pneumonia (CAPP) among HIV‐1 infected patients.MethodsWe analysed 4075 patients enrolled prospectively in the Lyon section of the French Hospital Database on HIV between 1993 and 2004, stratified into three groups. The first group (G1) included patients for whom enrolment and last follow‐up were before the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) period (beginning 1 July 1996); the second group (G2) comprised patients who were enrolled before HAART but had last follow‐up in the HAART period; the third group (G3) included patients for whom both enrolment and last follow‐up took place in the HAART period.ResultsFifty‐five CAPP episodes were identified. The incidence of CAPP per 1000 patient‐years declined over time, from 10.6 to 1.5 and 2.5 in calendar periods G1, G2 and G3, respectively (P=0.004 for linear trend). Factors associated with a decreased risk of CAPP were lower age, baseline CD4 count ≥200 cells/μL and more recent years of enrolment, when HAART use became extensive (P<0.001). The use of intravenous drugs increased the risk of CAPP (P<0.001).ConclusionsThere has been a significant reduction in the incidence of CAPP in HIV‐1 infected patients since the advent of HAART.
Variations in fluid activity across the Etive thermal aureole, Scotland: evidence from cordierite volatile contents
Authors: RIGBY M. J. , DROOP G. T. R. , BROMILEY G. D. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractThe H2O and CO2 content of cordierite was analysed in 34 samples from successive contact metamorphic zones of the Etive thermal aureole, Scotland, using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The measured volatile contents were used to calculate peak metamorphic H2O and CO2 activities. Total volatile contents are compared with recently modelled cordierite volatile saturation surfaces in order to assess the extent of fluid‐present v. fluid‐absent conditions across the thermal aureole. In the middle aureole, prior to the onset of partial melting, calculated aH2O values are high, close to unity, and measured volatile contents intersect modelled H2O–CO2 saturation curves at the temperature of interest, suggesting that fluid‐present conditions prevailed. Total volatile contents and aH2O steadily decrease beyond the onset of partial melting, consistent with the notion of aH2O being buffered to lower values as melting progresses once free hydrous fluid is exhausted. All sillimanite zone samples record total volatile contents that are significantly lower than modelled H2O–CO2 saturation surfaces, implying that fluid‐absent conditions prevailed. The lowest recorded aH2O values lie entirely within part of the section where fluid‐absent melting reactions are thought to have dominated. Samples within 30 m of the igneous contact appear to be re‐saturated, possibly via a magmatically derived fluid. In fluid‐absent parts of the aureole, cordierite H2O contents yield melt–H2O contents that are compatible with independently determined melt–H2O contents. The internally consistent cordierite volatile data and melt–H2O data support the conclusion that the independent P–T estimates applied to the Etive rocks were valid and that measured cordierite volatile contents are representative of peak metamorphic values. The Etive thermal aureole provides the most compelling evidence, suggesting that the cordierite fluid monitor can be used to accurately assess the fluid conditions during metamorphism and partial melting in a thermal aureole.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Decreased Factor XII Activity is Associated with Recurrent IVF‐ET Failure
Authors: Matsubayashi Hidehiko , Sugi Toshitaka , Suzuki Takahiro , Uchida Noa , Atsumi Haruyo , Izumi Shun‐ichiro , Mikami Mikio 
Published: February 2008

ProblemA decrease in factor XII (FXII) activity has been observed in women with unexplained recurrent miscarriages. Because of the many similarities between recurrent in vitro fertilization‐embryo transfer (IVF‐ET) failure and early pregnancy loss patients, we investigated whether women with recurrent IVF‐ET failure had low FXII activity.Method of studyBlood from 110 patients with three or more IVF‐ET failures was tested for FXII activity, autoantibodies and other coagulation parameters. These patients were compared with 191 recurrent miscarriage patients, 87 controls. FXII activity was measured by an activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) assay.ResultsFactor XII activity of the IVF‐ET failure group (median 79.5, range 37–150) was significantly lower than that of control group (median 109, range 35–225, P < 0.001 by Mann–Whitney test) or that of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL)group (median 92, range 20–205). The FXII activity of IVF‐ET failure patients was positively correlated with age, but not associated with the number of IVF‐ET failures, infertile duration, autoantibodies, or other coagulation parameters.ConclusionDecreased FXII activity may causally relate to reproductive failure.
The influence of dust formation modelling on Na i and K i line profiles in substellar atmospheres
Authors: Johnas C. M. S. , Helling Ch. , Dehn M. , Woitke P. , Hauschildt P. H. 
Published: February 2008

Abstract
We aim to understand the correlation between cloud formation and alkali line formation in substellar atmospheres. We perform line profile calculations for Na i and K i based on the coupling of our kinetic model for the formation and composition of dust grains with 1D radiative transfer calculations in atmosphere models for brown dwarfs and giant gas planets. The Na i and K i line profiles sensibly depend on the way clouds are treated in substellar atmosphere simulations. The kinetic dust formation model results in the highest pseudo-continuum compared to the limiting cases.
Flow‐mediated dilation and exercise‐induced hyperaemia in highly trained athletes: comparison of the upper and lower limb vasculature
Authors: Walther G. , Nottin S. , Karpoff L. , Pérez‐Martin A. , Dauzat M. , Obert P. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractAim:  The main purpose of the present study was to assess whether similar vascular adaptive changes could be obtained by long‐term intensive training involving predominantly either the lower or the upper limb musculature.Methods:  In 11 cyclists (C), 10 swimmers (S) and 10 sedentary controls (Sed), duplex Doppler ultrasonography was used to measure post‐occlusion endothelium‐dependent flow‐mediated dilation (FMD), endothelium‐independent, glycerine trinitrate‐induced dilation (GTND) and exercise‐induced blood flow changes in the arm (axillary artery) and leg (superficial femoral artery). Limb‐specific exercise was achieved by one elbow‐flexion or one leg‐extension maximal exercise test, thereby allowing assessment of upper and lower limb muscle perfusion, vascular conductance and vasodilatory capacity of resistance vessels during effort.Results:  C and S exhibited vascular remodelling associated with improved FMD and GTND in the predominantly trained limbs compared to Sed. Both showed greater muscle perfusion and vascular conductance than Sed during isolated exercise involving the predominantly trained musculature. C showed also higher FMD in the brachial artery and greater peak muscle perfusion and conductance in the non‐exercising muscles, whereas S presented only enhanced FMD in the superficial femoral artery.Conclusion:  Therefore, in the upper as well as in the lower limb vasculature, repetitive exposure to increased shear stress over a long‐term period results in improved FMD of large conduit arteries as well as greater vasodilatory capacity during isolated exercise in the predominantly trained muscles. Long‐term training involving predominantly the lower limbs also results in enhanced vascular reactivity in upper limb conduit and resistance vessels.
Avoidance of BIPP allergy hypersensitivity reactions following ear surgery
Authors: Bennett A.M.D. , Bartle J. , Yung M.W. 
Published: February 2008

Keypoints• Bismuth Iodoform Paraffin Paste (BIPP) is one of the most commonly used packs after middle and external ear surgery.• Only two retrospective case studies exist which found a 0.4% and 6% overall risk of BIPP allergy.• The result of our prospective patch testing study identifies the true incidence of BIPP allergy to be 12% in those previously exposed and 1% in those not previously exposed.• The component part responsible is iodoform not iodine.• We recommend patch testing patients previously exposed to BIPP undergoing ear surgery, if postoperative BIPP packing is being considered.• We recommend those patients allergic to BIPP should be tested with its constituent parts for future reference. It is important to determine whether there is allergy to iodine solution or not as this would preclude them from future iodine solution contrast studies and iodine solution skin prep before surgery.• We do not recommend testing patients not previously known to be exposed to BIPP as the incidence of allergy is low and there exists a risk of sensitization.
PET/CT for assessing mandibular invasion by intraoral squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Babin E. , Desmonts C. , Hamon M. , Bénateau H. , Hitier M. 
Published: February 2008

Keypoints• Evaluation of mandible invasion in cancer of the oral cavity and oropharynx is a major challenge.• Today, CT scans are the most frequent imaging technique used, with sensitivity of 53 to 92% and specificity of 83 to 96%.• Positron emission tomography is known as one of the most sensitive imaging techniques for head and neck cancer, but has poor anatomical resolution.• Our study associates positron emission tomography with CT scans, fusioning both images to maximise data information.• Positron emission tomography/CT fusion shows sensitivity of 100% with specificity of 85%. This result encourages the use of positron emission tomography/CT when assessing mandibular invasion.
Does flexible videostroboscopy compare with rigid videostroboscopy in the assessment of the neoglottis? A preliminary report
Authors: Singh A. , Kazi R. , Venkitaraman R. , Kapoor K. , Nutting C. , Clarke P. , Rhys Evans P. , Harrington K. 
Published: February 2008

Objective:  To evaluate rigid and flexible stroboscopy of the neoglottis.Study design:  Prospective pilot study set at a tertiary level Head & Neck Unit.Participants:  Twenty‐four patients recruited. All had undergone a total laryngectomy and were voicing using a Blom‐singer valve. All had stroboscopic evaluation of their neoglottis using flexible and rigid endoscopes.Main outcome measures:  A rating form was devised based on six parameters with clear definitions. Secondary measures included ability to tolerate the procedure and completeness of the rating form for each parameter using the two systems.Results:  There was good reliability between individual raters for the assessment of each system based on Spearman Rho correlation. Importantly, two‐thirds of the patients were unable to tolerate the rigid videostroboscopy managed flexible videostroboscopy. Correlation between rigid and flexible videostroboscopy was poor for both raters. Flexible systems picked up more mucosal waves and allowed further analysis of the mucosal wave pattern.Conclusions:  To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that fibreoptic videstroboscopy is as good as rigid videostroboscopy in the assessment of the neoglottis. In fact, flexible videostroboscopy should be routinely used, as it is better tolerated and allows a more detailed analysis of the neoglottis.
Out‐patient management of patients with a peritonsillar abscess
Authors: Al Yaghchi C. , Cruise A. , Kapoor K. , Singh A. , Harcourt J. 
Published: February 2008

Keypoints• In the United Kingdom, patients with a peritonsillar abscess are usually managed as inpatients. However, studies in other countries have shown successful management of these patients as outpatients.• We designed an evidence based protocol for the management of patients with a peritonsillar abscess. Diagnosis was by aspiration of pus. Initial treatment was with analgesia, 1.2 g co‐amoxiclav and 4 mg dexamethasone intravenously.• Data were collected prospectively over 11 months on the management of all patients who had been confirmed by aspiration of pus to have a peritonsillar abscess.• Four of the 46 patients (9%) treated as per the protocol required admission, two immediately and two later on. Of the 44 patients initially treated as outpatients, 41 said they were happy to have been treated as outpatients and not admitted to hospital (93%).• Patients with a peritonsillar abscess can be managed successfully as outpatients with a high degree of patient satisfaction.
Endoscopic minimal access surgery in nasal and sinus tumours: lessons from initial experience
Authors: Ali S. , McGarry G.W. 
Published: February 2008

Keypoints• The role of endoscopic techniques in the treatment of Nose and Para‐Nasal Sinus tumours is the subject of wide debate.• Technical advances in skills, imaging and instrumentation have resulted in Endoscopic Minimal Access Surgery gaining wide acceptance in the treatment of benign tumours. The place of endoscopes in malignant disease is more controversial.• Defining the aims of endoscopic surgery is key to achieving a successful outcome.• Experience with these new technologies and strategies should be gathered in a Clinical Network and Multi‐Disciplinary Team setting, with planned long‐term follow up.• We report our initial experience of 33 patients managed with EMAS (27 curative, six debulking/palliative cases).• Initial experience of the transition from the benign to malignant arenas supports a continued, cautious, structured evaluation of the endoscopic approach.