Rare genetic variation in UNC13A may modify survival in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Our objective was to identify whether rare genetic variation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) candidate survival genes modifies ALS survival. Candidate genes were selected based on evidence for modifying ALS survival. Each tail of the extreme 1.5% of survival was selected from the UK MND DNA Bank and all samples available underwent whole genome sequencing. A replication set from the Netherlands was used for validation. Sequences of candidate survival genes were extracted and variants passing quality control with a minor allele frequency ≤0.05 were selected for association testing. Analysis was by burden testing using SKAT. Candidate survival genes UNC13A, KIFAP3, and EPHA4 were tested for association in a UK sample comprising 25 short survivors and 25 long survivors. Results showed that only SNVs in UNC13A were associated with survival (p = 6.57 × 10−3). SNV rs10419420:G > A was found exclusively in long survivors (3/25) and rs4808092:G > A exclusively in short survivors (4/25). These findings were not replicated in a Dutch sample. In conclusion, population specific rare variants of UNC13A may modulate survival in ALS

Studies of cell proliferative indices in human breast cancer

Available from British Library Document Supply Centre- DSC:DX172403 / BLDSC - British Library Document Supply CentreSIGLEGBUnited Kingdo

Is magnetic resonance spectroscopy the new gold standard for breast cancer diagnosis?

A. Use robust classification methods to analyse magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) data at 8.5 Tesla (T) of fine needle aspirate biopsies (FNAB) taken from breast tumours. The resultant data, when compared with the histopathology and clinical criteria, would provide computerised classification-based diagnosis and prognosis with a high degree of accuracy and reliability. B. Develop MR hardware and software required for use of the MRS technology in routine clinical/diagnostic settings and document avenues for acceptance testing at clinical sites. C. Develop the MRS methodology to determine the pathology for a breast lesion non-invasively in vivo at 1.5 T

Risk adjustment policy options for casemix funding: international lessons in financing reform

Risk adjustment, Casemix funding, Diagnosis-related groups, Hospital costs,