bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytokine production by blood mononuclear cells from in-patients with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Nova Esther , Gómez-Martínez Sonia , Morandé Gonzalo , Marcos Ascensión
Published: July 2006

Although protein–energy malnutrition is a common cause of immunodeficiency, the immune function in underweight anorexia nervosa (AN) patients usually seems to be better preserved than would be expected. However, a deranged cytokine production and its consequences are currently being investigated in these patients. This study was aimed at measuring, over time, the capacity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from AN in-patients to produce several cytokines involved in the regulation of immune responses. Thein vitroproduction of interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-2, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-6 and IL-1β by phytohaemagglutinin-stimulated PBMC were assessed on forty female adolescents with AN. These measures were carried out twice, upon hospital admission and at discharge, which occurred on average after 1 month. Thirty-five control subjects were also studied. Cytokines were measured by ELISA kits. The production of TNF-α and IL-6 was lower and production of IL-1β higher in AN patients than in the control group at both time points of assessment. Refeeding for 1 month was not enough time to reverse these differences and patients still had a low body weight at discharge. IFN-γ production was lower in the patients than in control subjects only at discharge and no differences were found in IL-2 production between both groups. The results suggest that a mechanism involving modifications in the secretion pattern of proinflammatory cytokines could explain some immune function findings in underweight AN patients.
Differences in postprandial responses to fat and carbohydrate loads in habitual high and low fat consumers (phenotypes)
Authors: Blundell J. E. , Cooling J. , King N. A.
Published: July 2006

The present study investigated metabolic responses to fat and carbohydrate ingestion in lean male individuals consuming an habitual diet high or low in fat. Twelve high-fat phenotypes (HF) and twelve low-fat phenotypes (LF) participated in the study. Energy intake and macronutrient intake variables were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Resting (RMR) and postprandial metabolic rate and substrate oxidation (respiratory quotient; RQ) were measured by indirect calorimetry. HF had a significantly higher RMR and higher resting heart rate than LF. These variables remained higher in HF following the macronutrient challenge. In all subjects the carbohydrate load increased metabolic rate and heart rate significantly more than the fat load. Fat oxidation (indicated by a low RQ) was significantly higher in HF than in LF following the fat load; the ability to oxidise a high carbohydrate load did not differ between the groups. Lean male subjects consuming a diet high in fat were associated with increased energy expenditure at rest and a relatively higher fat oxidation in response to a high fat load; these observations may be partly responsible for maintaining energy balance on a high-fat (high-energy) diet. In contrast, a low consumer of fat is associated with relatively lower energy expenditure at rest and lower fat oxidation, which has implications for weight gain if high-fat foods or meals are periodically introduced to the diet.
Effects of high altitude and season on fasting heat production in the yak Bos grunniens or Poephagus grunniens
Authors: Han Xing-Tai , Xie Ao-Yun , Bi Xi-Chao , Liu Shu-Jie , Hu Ling-Hao
Published: July 2006

Thirty growing yaks Bos grunniens or Poephagus grunniens, 1·0–3·5 years and 50–230kg, from their native altitudes (3000–4000m), were used to study the basal metabolism in this species and to evaluate the effects of high altitude and season on the energy metabolism. Fasting heat production (FHP) was measured at altitudes of 2260, 3250 and 4270m on the Tibetan plateau in both the summer and the winter, after a 90d adaptation period at each experimental site. Gas exchanges of the whole animals were determined continuously for 3d (4–5 times per d, 10–12 min each time) after a 96 h starvation period, using closed-circuit respiratory masks. Increasing altitude at similar ambient temperature (Ta) did not affect (P>0·10) FHP in the summer, but decreased (P<0·05) it at different Ta in the winter. However, the decrease of FHP in the winter was mainly due to the decrease of Ta instead of the increase of altitude. In the summer, the respiratory rate, heart rate and body temperature were unaffected by altitude, except for a decrease (P<0·05) in body temperature at 4270m; in the winter, they were decreased (P<0·05) by increasing altitude. In both seasons, the RER was decreased (P<0·05) by increasing altitude. At all altitudes for all groups, the daily FHP was higher (P<0·05) in the summer (Ta 6–24°C) than in the winter (Ta 0 to -30°C), and the Ta-corrected FHP averaged on 920 kJ/kg body weight0·52 at Ta 8–14°C and on 704 kJ/kg body weight0·52 at Ta -15°C respectively. We conclude that in the yak high altitude has no effect on the energy metabolism, whereas the cold ambient temperature has a significant depressing effect. The results confirm that the yak has an excellent adaptation to both high altitude and extremely cold environments.
Evaluation of a foot-to-foot bioelectrical impedance analyser in highly active, moderately active and less active young men
Authors: Swartz Ann M. , Evans M. Jeremy , King George A. , Thompson Dixie L.
Published: July 2006

The Tanita TBF-305 (Tanita Corp., Tokyo, Japan) is a commercially available foot-to-foot bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) system. The manufacturer-supplied equations incorporate gender, mass, height, activity category and a measured impedance value to determine % body fat (BF). The purpose of the present study was to determine whether the manufacturer-supplied ‘adult’ and ‘athlete’ equations provided an accurate estimate of % BF for a group of young men with varying activity levels. Fifty-seven men (18–35 years old) were categorized into the following groups: (1) highly active (HA) (≥10·0 h aerobic activity/week); (2) moderately active (MA) (2·5–10·0 h aerobic activity/week); (3) less active (LA) (<2·5 h aerobic activity/week). The % BF was measured using the BIA ‘athlete’ and ‘adult’ modes. After BIA measurements, residual volume was measured and hydrostatic weighing (HW) was performed. The amount of activity performed by each group was significantly different (P<0·001). No significant differences were found between the % BF determined by the ‘athlete’ mode and HW for HA (P=0·309) and MA (P=0·091). However, a significant difference was found for LA (P=0·001). The % BF determined by the ‘adult’ mode and HW was not different for LA (P=0·395), but was significantly different for MA (P<0·001) and HA (P<0·001). The choice of activity mode on the foot-to-foot BIA significantly alters prediction of % BF. With careful selection of activity mode, there was no statistical difference between % BF determined by HW and the BIA, but the range of individual error scores was large.
Maternal docosahexaenoic acid supplementation and fetal accretion
Authors: Montgomery Colette , Speake Brian K. , Cameron Alan , Sattar Naveed , Weaver Lawrence T.
Published: July 2006

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (22:6n−3) is a polyunsaturated fatty acid that is an essential constituent of membranes, particularly of the nervous system. Infants acquire DHA from their mothers, either prenatally via the placenta or postnatally in milk. The present study aimed to test the hypothesis that maternal supplementation during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy enriches maternal and/or fetal DHA status. In a randomised, prospective, double-blind study 100 mothers received either fish-oil capsules containing 400mg DHA/g (200mg/d) (n50), or placebo containing 810mg oleic acid/g (400mg/d) (n50) from 15 weeks gestation until term. Venous blood samples were obtained from mothers at 15, 28 and 40 weeks, and from the umbilical cord at birth. Total fatty acids in plasma and erythrocytes were analysed by GC–MS. There were no significant differences between maternal groups in baseline DHA, as a proportion of total fatty acids (g/100g total fatty acids) or concentration (nmol/ml), in plasma and erythrocytes. DHA concentrations in plasma at 28 weeks (P=0·02) and erythrocytes at both 28 weeks (P=0·03) and term (P=0·02) were 20% higher in supplemented mothers than the placebo group. DHA accounted for a higher proportion of total fatty acids in erythrocytes of supplemented mothers at 28 weeks (P=0·003) and term (P=0·01). There were no significant differences between groups in DHA (g/100g total fatty acids or nmol/l) in cord blood. Maternal DHA status was maximal in mid-trimester and declined to term, at a lower rate in supplemented compared with unsupplemented mothers. Maternal DHA supplementation significantly increases maternal DHA status and limits the last trimester decline in maternal status, aiding preferential transfer of DHA from mother to fetus.
Effects of Preexposure on Stimulus Discrimination: An Investigation of the Mechanisms Responsible for Human Perceptual Learning
Authors: Lavis Yvonna , Mitchell Chris
Published: July 2006

The effect of preexposure on human perceptual learning was investigated in four experiments. In Experiments 1a and 1b, participants were preexposed to one pair of visual stimuli on an intermixed schedule (AX/BX) and one on a blocked schedule (CX_DX). The ability to discriminate between AX and BX and between CX and DX was then assessed by examining the extent to which key presses assigned to each member of a stimulus pair generalized to the other member (Experiment 1a) and by looking at the accuracy of same–different responses (Experiment 1b). Stimuli were more easily discriminated following intermixed than following blocked preexposure on both the generalization and same–different tasks. This suggests that two stimuli are more perceptually distinct after intermixed preexposure. Experiments 2a and 2b investigated the mechanisms responsible for perceptual learning using same–different tasks. The results support the suggestion that the enhanced discrimination observed after intermixed preexposure is due to increases in the salience of the unique elements.
AFFECTING FACTORS ON RISK‐ADJUSTED EFFICIENCY IN TAIWAN'S BANKING INDUSTRY
Authors: CHANG TA‐CHENG , CHIU YUNG‐HO
Published: July 2006

This study adopts a two‐stage approach, data envelopment analysis (DEA) and tobit regression, to investigate the bank efficiency index and efficiency effect incorporated into account credit and market risk. The authors use the DEA method in the first stage to estimate bank cost efficiency, and the tobit regression model in the second stage to estimate efficiency effects. The empirical results are summarized as follows: First, results indicate that risk factors impact bank efficiency. Banks with a higher degree of nonperforming loans or value at risk will see efficiency decrease by incorporating account risk. Second, there is no significant difference with the bank efficiency index taking only credit risk or market risk into consideration, but there are significant differences on the bank efficiency index in situations without risk or with credit and/or market risks. Finally, the study notes that different bank efficiency indexes calculated according to different risks are affected by different factors. (JEL G1, G21)
Cloning and Expression Analysis of a UDP-Galactose/Glucose Pyrophosphorylase from Melon Fruit Provides Evidence for the Major Metabolic Pathway of Galactose Metabolism in Raffinose Oligosaccharide Metabolizing Plants
Authors: Dai Nir , Petreikov Marina , Portnoy Vitaly , Katzir Nurit , Pharr David M. , Schaffer Arthur A.
Published: July 2006

The Cucurbitaceae translocate a significant portion of their photosynthate as raffinose and stachyose, which are galactosyl derivatives of sucrose. These are initially hydrolyzed by α-galactosidase to yield free galactose (Gal) and, accordingly, Gal metabolism is an important pathway in Cucurbitaceae sink tissue. We report here on a novel plant-specific enzyme responsible for the nucleotide activation of phosphorylated Gal and the subsequent entry of Gal into sink metabolism. The enzyme was antibody purified, sequenced, and the gene cloned and functionally expressed in Escherichia coli. The heterologous protein showed the characteristics of a dual substrate UDP-hexose pyrophosphorylase (PPase) with activity toward both Gal-1-P and glucose (Glc)-1-P in the uridinylation direction and their respective UDP-sugars in the reverse direction. The two other enzymes involved in Glc-P and Gal-P uridinylation are UDP-Glc PPase and uridyltransferase, and these were also cloned, heterologously expressed, and characterized. The gene expression and enzyme activities of all three enzymes in melon (Cucumis melo) fruit were measured. The UDP-Glc PPase was expressed in melon fruit to a similar extent as the novel enzyme, but the expressed protein was specific for Glc-1-P in the UDP-Glc synthesis direction and did not catalyze the nucleotide activation of Gal-1-P. The uridyltransferase gene was only weakly expressed in melon fruit, and activity was not observed in crude extracts. The results indicate that this novel enzyme carries out both the synthesis of UDP-Gal from Gal-1-P as well as the subsequent synthesis of Glc-1-P from the epimerase product, UDP-Glc, and thus plays a key role in melon fruit sink metabolism.
Herbivore-Induced Resistance against Microbial Pathogens in Arabidopsis
Authors: De Vos Martin , Van Zaanen Wendy , Koornneef Annemart , Korzelius Jerôme P. , Dicke Marcel , Van Loon L.C. , Pieterse Corné M.J.
Published: July 2006

Caterpillars of the herbivore Pieris rapae stimulate the production of jasmonic acid (JA) and ethylene (ET) in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) and trigger a defense response that affects insect performance on systemic tissues. To investigate the spectrum of effectiveness of P. rapae-induced resistance, we examined the level of resistance against different pathogens. Although the necrotrophic fungus Alternaria brassicicola is sensitive to JA-dependent defenses, herbivore-induced resistance was not effective against this pathogen. By contrast, caterpillar feeding significantly reduced disease caused by the bacterial pathogens Pseudomonas syringae pv tomato and Xanthomonas campestris pv armoraciae. However, this effect was apparent only locally in caterpillar-damaged tissue. Arabidopsis mutants jar1, coi1, ein2, sid2, eds5, and npr1 showed wild-type levels of P. rapae-induced protection against P. syringae pv tomato, suggesting that this local, herbivore-induced defense response does not depend exclusively on either JA, ET, or salicylic acid (SA). Resistance against the biotroph Turnip crinkle virus (TCV) requires SA, but not JA and ET. Nevertheless, herbivore feeding strongly affected TCV multiplication and TCV lesion formation, also in systemic tissues. Wounding alone was not effective, but application of P. rapae regurgitate onto the wounds induced a similar level of protection. Analysis of SA-induced PATHOGENESIS RELATED-1 (PR-1) expression revealed that P. rapae grazing primed Arabidopsis leaves for augmented expression of SA-dependent defenses. Pharmacological experiments showed that ET acts synergistically on SA-induced PR-1, suggesting that the increased production of ET upon herbivore feeding sensitizes the tissue to respond faster to SA, thereby contributing to an enhanced defensive capacity toward pathogens, such as TCV, that trigger SA-dependent defenses upon infection.
CONSTITUTIVELY PHOTOMORPHOGENIC1 Is Required for the UV-B Response in Arabidopsis
Authors: Oravecz Attila , Baumann Alexander , Máté Zoltán , Brzezinska Agnieszka , Molinier Jean , Oakeley Edward J. , Ádám Éva , Schäfer Eberhard , Nagy Ferenc , Ulm Roman
Published: July 2006

CONSTITUTIVELY PHOTOMORPHOGENIC1 (COP1) is a negative regulator of photomorphogenesis in Arabidopsis thaliana. COP1 functions as an E3 ubiquitin ligase, targeting select proteins for proteasomal degradation in plants as well as in mammals. Among its substrates is the basic domain/leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factor ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL5 (HY5), one of the key regulators of photomorphogenesis under all light qualities, including UV-B responses required for tolerance to this environmental threat. Here, we report that, in contrast with the situation in visible light, COP1 is a critical positive regulator of responses to low levels of UV-B. We show that in the cop1-4 mutant, flavonoid accumulation and genome-wide expression changes in response to UV-B are blocked to a large extent. COP1 is required for HY5 gene activation, and both COP1 and HY5 proteins accumulate in the nucleus under supplementary UV-B. SUPPRESSOR OF PHYTOCHROME A-105 family proteins (SPA1 to SPA4) that are required for COP1 function in dark and visible light are not essential in the response to UV-B. We conclude that COP1 performs a specific and novel role in the plants' photomorphogenic response to UV-B, coordinating HY5-dependent and -independent pathways, which eventually results in UV-B tolerance.
High Rate of Chimeric Gene Origination by Retroposition in Plant Genomes
Authors: Wang Wen , Zheng Hongkun , Fan Chuanzhu , Li Jun , Shi Junjie , Cai Zhengqiu , Zhang Guojie , Liu Dongyuan , Zhang Jianguo , Vang Søren , Lu Zhike , Wong Gane Ka-Shu , Long Manyuan , Wang Jun
Published: July 2006

Retroposition is widely found to play essential roles in origination of new mammalian and other animal genes. However, the scarcity of retrogenes in plants has led to the assumption that plant genomes rarely evolve new gene duplicates by retroposition, despite abundant retrotransposons in plants and a reported long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposon-mediated mechanism of retroposing cellular genes in maize (Zea mays). We show extensive retropositions in the rice (Oryza sativa) genome, with 1235 identified primary retrogenes. We identified 27 of these primary retrogenes within LTR retrotransposons, confirming a previously observed role of retroelements in generating plant retrogenes. Substitution analyses revealed that the vast majority are subject to negative selection, suggesting, along with expression data and evidence of age, that they are likely functional retrogenes. In addition, 42% of these retrosequences have recruited new exons from flanking regions, generating a large number of chimerical genes. We also identified young chimerical genes, suggesting that gene origination through retroposition is ongoing, with a rate an order of magnitude higher than the rate in primates. Finally, we observed that retropositions have followed an unexpected spatial pattern in which functional retrogenes avoid centromeric regions, while retropseudogenes are randomly distributed. These observations suggest that retroposition is an important mechanism that governs gene evolution in rice and other grass species.
Skin diseases in workers at a perfume factory
Authors: Schubert Hans‐jürgen
Published: July 2006

The aim of this study is to find out the causes of skin diseases in one‐third of the staff of a perfume factory, in which 10 different perfume sprays were being manufactured. Site inspection, dermatological examination and patch testing of all 26 persons at risk with 4 perfume oils and 30 ingredients of them. The results showed 6 bottlers were found suffering from allergic contact dermatitis, 2 from irritant contact dermatitis, 12 workers showed different strong reactions to various fragrances. The main causes of allergic contact dermatitis were 2 perfume oils(12 cases) and their ingredients geraniol (12 cases), benzaldehyde(9), cinnamic aldehyde (6), linalool, neroli oil, terpenes of lemon oil and orange oil(4 each). Nobody was tested positive to balsam of Peru. Job changes for office workers, packers or printers to other rooms, where they had no longer contact with fragrances, led to a settling. To conclude, automation and replacement of glass bottles by cartridges from non‐fragile materials and using gloves may minimize the risk.
Methadone‐associated Torsades de Pointes (polymorphic ventricular tachycardia) in opioid‐dependent patients
Authors: Justo Dan , Gal‐Oz Amir , Paran Yael , Goldin Yelena , Zeltser David
Published: July 2006

Aims  We reviewed all the publications concerning methadone‐associated Torsades de Pointes (TdP) (polymorphic ventricular tachycardia) in opioid‐dependent patients in order to characterize the clinical circumstances leading to this serious complication.

Methods  Our literature search yielded 14 reports on 40 patients with methadone‐associated TdP. We gathered and recorded the risk factors for TdP mentioned in those reports, among other clinical aspects.

Results  The most prevalent risk factors for TdP were high‐dose methadone (n = 39, 97.5%) and concomitant use of agents that increase serum methadone levels or trigger TdP (n = 22, 55%). HIV infection (n = 16), hypokalaemia (n = 14), female sex (n = 13), liver cirrhosis or renal failure (n = 11) and heart disease (n = 9) were also described. All the patients had at least one and 34 (85%) had two or more risk factors for TdP during methadone treatment.

Conclusions  We wish to raise the level of awareness of risk factors for TdP among physicians in heroin‐treatment clinics who frequently prescribe methadone.
Alcohol drinking pattern and subjective health in a population‐based study
Authors: Stranges Saverio , Notaro James , Freudenheim Jo L. , Calogero Rachel M. , Muti Paola , Farinaro Eduardo , Russell Marcia , Nochajski Thomas H. , Trevisan Maurizio
Published: July 2006

Aims  Some patterns of alcohol consumption (e.g. binge drinking, drinking outside of meals) have been associated with detrimental effects on health outcomes. Subjective health provides a global assessment of health status and is a strong predictor of total mortality; however, little is known about its relationship with alcohol drinking pattern. The association between several drinking patterns (i.e. drinking intensity and frequency, frequency of intoxication, drinking outside of meals, and beverage type) and subjective health was examined in a random sample of 3586 women and men.

Design  A population‐based cross‐sectional study.

Methods  Subjective health was assessed using the physical and mental health component summaries of the Short Form‐36 health survey questionnaire. Alcohol consumption refers to the 30 days before the interview. Analysis of covariance compared gender‐specific mean scores across alcohol drinking patterns.

Findings  Overall, non‐current drinkers reported poorer physical and mental health than life‐time abstainers and current drinkers, while no consistent differences were found between life‐time abstainers and current drinkers. In female current drinkers, daily drinking, beer and mixed beverage consumption were associated with better mental health. In male current drinkers, moderate alcohol consumption (2–2.9 drinks per day), wine and mixed beverage consumption were associated with better physical health. Intoxication and liquor consumption were associated with poorer mental health in women and poorer physical health in men. No consistent associations were found for drinking outside meals.

Conclusions  Aspects of drinking pattern may affect subjective health differentially in women and men. Overall, intoxication and liquor drinking are associated with poorer self‐perceived health status than regular, moderate consumption of other alcoholic beverages.
Genetic and clinical heterogeneity of ferroportin disease
Authors: Cemonesi Laura , Forni Gian Luca , Soriani Nadia , Lamagna Martina , Fermo Isabella , Daraio Filomena , Galli Anna , Pietra Daniela , Malcovati Luca , Ferrari Maurizio , Camaschella Clara , Cazzola Mario
Published: July 2006

Ferroportin is encoded by the SLC40A1 gene and mediates iron export from cells by interacting with hepcidin. SLC40A1 gene mutations are associated with an autosomal type of genetic iron overload described as haemochromatosis type 4, or HFE4 (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man number 606069), or ferroportin disease. We report three families with this condition caused by novel SLC40A1 mutations. Denaturing high‐performance liquid chromatography was employed to scan for the SLC40A1 gene. A D181V (A846T) mutation in exon 6 of the ferroportin gene was detected in the affected members of an Italian family and shown to have a de novo origin in a maternal germinal line. This mutation was associated with both parenchymal and reticuloendothelial iron overload in the liver, and with reduced urinary hepcidin excretion. A G80V (G543T) mutation in exon 3 was found in the affected members of an Italian family with autosomal hyperferritinaemia,. Finally, a G267D (G1104A) mutation was identified in exon 7 in a family of Chinese descent whose members presented with isolated hyperferritinaemia. Ferroportin disease represents a protean genetic condition in which the different SLC40A1 mutations appear to be responsible for phenotypic variability. This condition should be considered not only in families with autosomal iron overload or hyperferritinaemia, but also in cases of unexplained hyperferritinaemia.
Fine needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of bone lesions
Authors: Handa U. , Bal A. , Mohan H. , Bhardwaj S.
Published: July 2006

Objective:  Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in combination with radiological examination has recently gained clinical recognition for evaluating skeletal lesions. We evaluated our experience with the use of FNA in diagnosing bone lesions with emphasis on areas of difficulty and limitations.

Materials and Methods:  Over a period of 5 years FNA was performed in 66 cases of bone lesions. Aspirations were done by cytopathologists using 22‐gauge needle. Out of 66 cases unsatisfactory aspirate was obtained in 12 cases. Cytohistological correlation was available in 19 cases.

Results:  Adequate aspirates were categorized into neoplastic (27 cases) and non‐neoplastic (27 cases) lesions. Of the 27neoplastic aspirates, 20 were malignant (12 primary, 8 metastatic deposits) and 7 were benign. In the malignant group osteosarcoma was correctly diagnosed in 3 cases while other 3 were labeled as sarcoma NOS because of lack of osteoid. Metastatic deposits were sub‐typed in 6 cases; from renal cell carcinoma (3 cases), proststic adenocarcinoma, follicular carcinoma thyroid, and squamous cell carcinoma. Neoplastic group comprised of 6 cases of cysts and 21 cases of chronic osteomyelitis. Thirteen cases were diagnosed as tuberculous osteomyelitis.

Conclusions:  FNA is a frequent indication in metastases in the bone where distinct cytologic features can even identify an unknown primary. However, diagnosis of primary tumours of the bone is limited by precise subtyping of the tumours. FNA has emerged as a cost effective tool for initial diagnosis of both neoplastic and non‐neoplastic lesions of the bone.
The reliability and accuracy of intraoperative imprint cytology of sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer
Authors: Pogačnik A. , Klopčič U. , Grazio‐Frković S. , Žgajnar J. , Hočevar M. , Vidergar‐Kralj B.
Published: July 2006

Objective:  Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy is a new component of the surgical treatment of breast cancer that accurately predicts axillary status. In this study the authors evaluated the accuracy of intraoperative imprint cytology (IC) in comparison with definitive histologic evaluation of SLN in breast cancer patients.

Methods:  A total 413 women with breast carcinoma and clinically negative axillary nodes underwent breast surgery and SLN biopsy. Mapping of SLN involved injection of 99mTechnecium labelled human albumin nanocolloid particles and Patent Blue dye. At the Department of Pathology, SLNs were bisected along its major axis. Both halves were imprinted 2–4 times on the slides and immediate staining with Hemacolor (Merck Germany) was performed for intraoperative examination. Imprint node negative women underwent no further surgery, while node positive women proceeded to full axillary clearance. Histological analysis of the SLN involved serial sectioning of the whole node with H&E and immunostaining for cytokeratin.

Results:  Definitive histology revealed metastases (pN+) in 159/413 patients (38.5%): 69 (16.7%) macro metastases, 57 (13.8%) micro metastases, and 33 (8%) women with only isolated IHC positive cells or positive cell groups smaller than 0.2 mm (pNO sn+). The other 254 women had negative SLN biopsy. Imprint cytology detected 54/69 macro metastases, and 4/57 micro metastases. In the group with negative SLN (254), 2 cases were ‘‘false positives’’.

Conclusions:  Imprint of SLN biopsy can identify a negative axilla with high accuracy (specificity 99.2%). Overall sensitivity is only 36.5%, but macrometastases are detected in 77% which is important for performing ALDN in one session with operation of primary tumour.
Cytomorphological spectrum in scar endometriosis: a study of eight cases
Authors: Pathan S. K. , Kapila K. , Haji B. E. , Mallik M. K. , Al‐Ansary T. A. , George S. S. , Das D. K. , Francis I. M.
Published: July 2006

Objective:  Endometriosis due to ectopic endometrial tissue that responds to hormonal stimulation and is extremely rare in a surgical scar appearing in 0.1% of women who have undergone Caesarean section. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) can be a valuable diagnostic aid in the evaluation of these subcutaneous abdominal masses.

Methods:  We present the cytomorphological spectrum in eight cases of abdominal wall endometriosis diagnosed by FNAC over a 6‐year period (June 1998–June 2004) in Mubarak Al‐Kabeer Hospital (Kuwait). The patients ranged from 27 to 56 years of age. Seven had a prior Caesarean section and one had a hysterectomy for fibroid. They presented 3–8 years later with nodules in/near the abdominal scar. Five cases presented with a painful nodule, fluctuant with the menstrual cycle.

Results:  Cytological findings comprised epithelial clusters and fusiform stromal cells with numerous haemosiderin‐laden macrophages. Mild to moderate epithelial atypia was observed in three cases. A diagnosis of endometriosis was rendered in all the eight cases and tissue was available in four cases.

Conclusions:  Endometriotic nodules need to be differentiated from other benign/malignant masses and evaluated for possible malignant transformation. FNAC provides a safe and effective tool for diagnosis thereby obviating the need for other procedures.
Comparison of DNA extraction from cervical cells collected in PreservCyt solution for the amplification of Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Keegan H. , Boland C. , Malkin A. , Griffin M. , Ryan F. , Lambkin H.
Published: July 2006

Objective:  The aim of this study was to compare and evaluate three methods of DNA extraction for the amplification of Chlamydia trachomatis in uterine cervical samples collected in PreservCyt solution. ThinPrep is the trade name for the slide preparation.

Methods:  Thirty‐eight samples collected in LCx buffer medium, which were identified as C. trachomatis infected by ligase chain reaction (LCR), were selected for this study. DNA from the PreservCyt samples was extracted by three methods: (i) QIAamp kit, (ii) boiling in Tris‐EDTA buffer with Chelex purification, and (iii) Proteinase K digestion with Chelex purification. Sample DNA was tested for the presence of C. trachomatis by PCR using cryptic plasmid research (CTP) primers and major outer membrane protein research momp gene (MOMP) primers. Real‐time (LightCycler) PCR for relative C. trachomatis quantification following DNA extraction was performed using primers (Hsp 60) for the 60 kDa heat‐shock protein hsp60 gene.

Results:  Amplification using CTP primers was the most successful with each of the extraction protocols. Boiling in buffer was the least successful extraction method. QIAamp was the best extraction method, yielding the most positives with both the CTP and MOMP primers. Proteinase K‐Chelex extraction gave similar sensitivity to QIAamp extraction with CTP primers but lower for MOMP primers.

Conclusions:  The DNA extraction method must be carefully selected to ensure that larger PCR amplicons can be successfully produced by PCR and to ensure high sensitivity of detection of C. trachomatis. In this study it was found that the QIAamp extraction method followed by PCR with the CTP primers was the most successful for amplification of C. trachomatis DNA.
Native and introduced populations of Solidago gigantea differ in shoot production but not in leaf traits or litter decomposition
Authors: GÜSEWELL S. , JAKOBS G. , WEBER E.
Published: July 2006

Invasive alien plants tend to have a greater specific leaf area and more nutrient‐rich tissues than the invaded native vegetation. To test whether these traits differ between introduced and native populations of the same species, we compared 20 European (introduced) and 22 American (native) populations of Solidago gigantea Aiton (Asteraceae) in a common‐garden experiment.

Five plants per population were grown for 2 years in pots and for one summer outdoors in nutrient‐rich soil. We recorded shoot number and biomass, leaf production and senescence, flowering, leaf morphology and nutrient concentrations of leaves and litter. In laboratory assays, we compared litter decomposition and nutrient mineralization.

Shoot growth and leaf traits varied three‐ to 10‐fold among the 42 populations. European plants produced, on average, more shoots than American plants, but did not differ in shoot size, leaf traits or litter decomposition.

The shoot number and total shoot biomass per plant in the experiment correlated positively with the number of new rhizomes produced by shoots of the same populations at their original field sites.

We conclude that introduced S. gigantea populations tend to produce more shoots through clonal growth than native populations. This may increase their ability to compete against the established vegetation in dense stands or at nutrient‐poor sites.
Compensation for inundation‐induced embryonic diapause in a freshwater turtle: achieving predictability in the face of environmental stochasticity
Authors: FORDHAM D. , GEORGES A. , COREY B.
Published: July 2006

We investigated the influence of duration of inundation‐induced diapause, incubation temperature and clutch of origin on incubation duration and survivorship of eggs of the Snake‐Necked Turtle, Chelodina rugosa, from the wet–dry tropics of northern Australia.

Eggs of C. rugosa survive at least 25 weeks’ inundation, almost 6 months, with a clear optimal inundation duration of 6 weeks. Eggs not held under water suffered the same mortality as eggs inundated for 25 weeks. Underwater nesting is not a facultative capacity but, rather, inundation is essential for optimal survivorship of embryos.

Inundation duration had a profound effect on incubation period, reducing it by up to 9 weeks over what would be expected for a given temperature. Eggs inundated for up to 7 weeks complete incubation faster than had they been laid at the same time in dry ground.

There was remarkable variability in incubation period remaining after correcting for the effect of incubation temperature, inundation duration and clutch.

We interpret these traits as adaptations that match the timing and duration of the period available for nesting to the timing and duration of the period available for successful hatching, emergence from the nest and hatchling survival. Our interpretation is placed in the context of considerable environmental stochasticity in the factors driving these variables.
Rapid detection of fungal endophytes in grasses for large‐scale studies
Authors: KOH S. , VICARI M. , BALL J. P. , RAKOCEVIC T. , ZAHEER S. , HIK D. S. , BAZELY D. R.
Published: July 2006

Standard visual screening methods for determining the qualitative and quantitative presence of fungal endophytes are too time‐consuming for large‐scale ecological studies.

We investigated whether commercially available immunoblot kits, using monoclonal antibody techniques and designed for rapid‐screening of the presence of Neotyphodium endophytes in fresh samples of the pasture grasses Festuca arundinacea and Lolium perenne, could be used for Neotyphodium detection using other grasses and preserved samples. We also determined whether immunoblot kits could provide quantitative information about the amount of Neotyphodium in the grass.

The kits accurately detected endophyte presence in F. rubra, F. ovina, F. pratensis and F. altaica, in both preserved samples (dried and fixed), including 12‐year‐old stored, dried samples of F. rubra.

Endophytes were detected in 7‐day‐old seedlings of Lolium perenne, 3 days (30%) earlier than previously recognized.

The intensity of the coloured tissue prints on scanned immunoblot cards was significantly positively correlated with hyphal density, demonstrating a previously unrecognized accurate quantitative application.

These findings greatly reduce logistical barriers to large‐scale field research into the broader ecological significance of Neotyphodium in temperate and arctic grasses in non‐agricultural ecosystems (particularly in remote areas) and suggest potential for estimating historical infection rates using stored and herbarium specimens.
The percentage of gutta‐percha‐filled area in simulated curved canals when filled using Endo Twinn, a new heat device source
Authors: Pagavino G. , Giachetti L. , Nieri M. , Giuliani V. , Russo D. Scaminaci
Published: July 2006

Aim  To compare the percentage of gutta‐percha‐filled area (PGP) in simulated root canals when varying the penetration depth and function of the pluggers (heat versus heat plus vibration) using Endo Twinn.

Methodology  Sixty‐four resin blocks with simulated 34–35° curved canals were randomly divided into two groups in order to obtain two canal shapes: group A with 0.8 taper and group B with 0.4 taper. The apical portion of each canal was prepared to a size 20 K‐file. The canals were filled with gutta‐percha in combination with a root canal sealer. In each group 16 canals were filled using the Endo Twinn heat function and 16 canals by means of both the heat and the vibration function. All samples were sectioned horizontally at three levels (1.25, 2.5 and 4.0 mm from the working length) and the PGP was measured. Data were analysed using anova test.

Results  At the 1.25 mm level PGP was significantly greater using the vibration function (P = 0.0329) and in 0.8 taper canals (P < 0.0001). At the 2.5 mm level the PGP was greater in the canals with 0.8 taper compared with a 0.4 taper with or without vibration (vibration, P = 0.0056; interaction taper‐vibration, P = 0.0020). In 0.4 taper canals the PGP was greater when the vibration function was activated. At the 4 mm level in 0.8 taper canals there was no significant difference in PGP with or without the vibration (P = 0.6742).

Conclusions  0.8 taper canals had significantly greater PGP than 0.4 taper canals. At the 1.25 mm level there was significantly greater PGP when the vibration function was activated.
An ex vivo comparison of three different gutta‐percha cones when compacted at different temperatures: rheological considerations in relation to the filling of lateral canals
Authors: Venturi M. , Di Lenarda R. , Breschi L.
Published: July 2006

Aim  To compare ex vivo the penetration of three brands of gutta‐percha cones, compacted under a constant force and heated to different temperatures, into artificial lateral canals.

Methodology  Resin blocks with simulated main canals, each having two lateral canals (C at 6.5 and A at 13 mm from the surface of the resin block), were selected. A gutta‐percha cone, either Mynol MF, Hygenic MF or GT Tulsa 0.04 was compacted into each main canal for 5 s using a wire rod with a diameter of 0.7 mm soldered to the bottom of a metal cylinder, with a force of 2.7 kg at controlled temperatures of 37, 42, 47, 52, 60 °C. The penetration of each brand of gutta‐percha into 60 lateral canals (10 at each temperature) was measured using a stereomicroscope. Statistical analysis was performed using the anova, the Scheffè test and the t‐test.

Results  None of the three brands of cones entered up to 0.1 mm within either lateral canal until a temperature of 47 °C was reached; at that temperature only Mynol cones (P ≤ 0.05) penetrated in four of 10 A‐level canals (mean 0.13 ± 0.19 mm) and in all 10 C‐level canals (mean 0.43 ± 0.12 mm).

The A‐level lateral canals were penetrated at 52 °C by Mynol cones (mean 0.76 ± 0.34 mm) to a significantly greater distance (P ≤ 0.05) than Tulsa cones (mean 0.31 ± 0.12 mm) and Hygenic cones (mean 0.11 ± 0.08 mm). At 60 °C the Mynol cones (mean 1.93 ± 0.34 mm) penetrated significantly more (P ≤ 0.05) than the Tulsa cones (mean 0.86 ± 0.22 mm) and Hygenic cones (mean 0.67 ± 0.19 mm). The C‐level lateral canals were penetrated at 52 °C by Mynol cones (mean 0.91 ± 0.29 mm) to a significantly greater distance (P ≤ 0.05) than Tulsa cones (mean 0.47 ± 0.16 mm) and Hygenic cones (mean 0.46 ± 0.15 mm), whilst no significant difference was found at 60 °C.

Conclusions  When heated and compacted, the three gutta‐percha cones penetrated the lateral canals to different degrees. They penetrated more than 0.43 mm into the lateral canals only at temperatures higher than 47 °C.
Confidence intervals in Cavalieri sampling
Authors: GARCÍA‐FIÑANA M.
Published: July 2006

The aim of this study is to derive a formula that allows the prediction, from a Cavalieri data sample, of an appropriate confidence interval for a parameter Q. Two different approaches are used to address the problem. The first approach is to investigate whether the asymptotic distribution of the Cavalieri estimator exists when the sampling period T tends to zero. In particular, the distribution of the standardized version of the Cavalieri estimator zT is analysed for a measurement function f whose smoothness constant is an integer number m. The analysis reveals that when the first noncontinuous derivative of f, f(m), exhibits a unique discontinuity, the asymptotic distribution of zT exists and it has a bounded support. An analytical expression of the distribution is derived for the cases m = 0 and 1. However, when f(m) has two or more discontinuities, the asymptotic distribution of zT does not exist and its support may be unbounded. In the second approach, a generalized version of the refined Euler Mac‐Laurin summation formula, valid for measurement functions with a fractional, rather than just an integer, smoothness constant, is applied to the Cavalieri estimator. As a result, a formula that predicts a lower and upper bound for the true parameter is derived for small T. This bound prediction formula is applied to Cavalieri data samples of human cerebral cortex. In particular, for sample sizes n = 8, 12 and 16, the true volume of cerebral cortex is bounded by relative distances 8%, 4% and 2% of the Cavalieri estimate, respectively.
New variance expressions for systematic sampling: the filtering approach
Authors: GUAL‐ARNAU XIMO , CRUZ‐ORIVE LUIS M.
Published: July 2006

We present a collection of variance models for estimators obtained by geometric systematic sampling with test points, quadrats, and n‐boxes in general, on a bounded domain in n‐dimensional Euclidean space ℝn, n = 1, 2, ... , and for systematic rays and sectors on the circle. The approach adopted − termed the filtering approach − is new and different from the current transitive approach. This report is only preliminary, however, because it includes only variance models in terms of the covariogram of the measurement function. The estimation step is in preparation.
Using biased image analysis for improving unbiased stereological number estimation – a pilot simulation study of the smooth fractionator
Authors: GARDI J. E. , NYENGAARD J. R. , GUNDERSEN H. J. G.
Published: July 2006

The smooth fractionator was introduced in 2002. The combination of a smoothing protocol with a computer‐aided stereology tool provides better precision and a lighter workload. This study uses simulation to compare fractionator sampling based on the smooth design, the commonly used systematic uniformly random sampling design and the ordinary simple random sampling design. The smooth protocol is performed using biased information from crude (but fully automatic) image analysis of the fields of view. The different design paradigms are compared using simulation in three different cell distributions with reference to sample size, noise and counting frame position. Regardless of clustering, sample size or noise, the fractionator based on a smooth design is more efficient than the fractionator based on a systematic uniform random design, which is more efficient than a fractionator based on simple random design. The fractionator based on a smooth design is up to four times more efficient than a simple random design.
A new fractionator principle with varying sampling fractions: exemplified by estimation of synapse number using electron microscopy
Authors: WITGEN B. M. , GRADY M. S. , NYENGAARD J. R. , GUNDERSEN H. J. G.
Published: July 2006

The quantification of ultrastructure has been permanently improved by the application of new stereological principles. Both precision and efficiency have been enhanced. Here we report for the first time a fractionator method that can be applied at the electron microscopy level. This new design incorporates a varying sampling fraction paradigm. The method allows for systematic random sampling from blocks of variable slab thickness, thereby eliminating the need for exhaustive serial sectioning through an entire containing space. This novel approach acknowledges the inaccuracy inherent in estimating the total object number using section sampling fractions based on the average thickness of sections of variable thicknesses. As an alternative, this approach estimates the correct particle section sampling probability based on an estimator of the Horvitz–Thompson type, resulting in a theoretically more satisfying and accurate estimate of the expected number of particles for the defined containing space.
Prediction of the variance of stereological volume estimates from systematic sections using computer‐intensive methods
Authors: MATTFELDT TORSTEN
Published: July 2006

The Cavalieri method is an unbiased estimator of the total volume of a body from its transectional areas on systematic sections. The coefficient of error (CE) of the Cavalieri estimator was predicted by a computer‐intensive method. The method is based on polynomial regression of area values on section number and simulation of systematic sectioning. The measurement function is modelled as a quadratic polynomial, with an error term superimposed. The relative influence of the trend and the error component is estimated by techniques of analysis of variance. This predictor was compared with two established short‐cut estimators of the CE based on transitive theory. First, all predictors were applied to data sets from six deterministic models with analytically known CE. For these models, the CE was best predicted by the older short‐cut estimator and by the computer‐intensive approach, if the measurement function had finite jumps. The best prediction was provided by the newer short‐cut estimator when the measurement function was continuous. The predictors were also applied to published empirical datasets. The first data set consisted of 10 series of areas of systematically sectioned rat hearts with 10–13 items, the second data set consisted of 13 series of systematically sampled transectional areas of various biological structures with 38–90 items. On the whole, similar mean values for the predicted CE were obtained with the older short‐cut estimator and the computer‐intensive method. These ranged in the same order of magnitude as resampling estimates of the CE from the empirical data sets, which were used as a cross‐check. The mean values according to the newer short‐cut CE estimator ranged distinctly lower than the resampling estimates. However, for individual data sets, it happened that the closest prediction as compared to the cross‐check value could be provided by any of the three methods. This finding is discussed in terms of the statistical variability of the resampling estimate itself.