bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of peptide import through phosphorylation of Ubr1, the ubiquitin ligase of the N-end rule pathway
Authors: Hwang Cheol-Sang , Varshavsky Alexander
Published: November 2008

Substrates of the N-end rule pathway include proteins with destabilizing N-terminal residues. These residues are recognized by E3 ubiquitin ligases called N-recognins. Ubr1 is the N-recognin of the yeast
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
. Extracellular amino acids or short peptides up-regulate the peptide transporter gene
PTR2
, thereby increasing the capacity of a cell to import peptides. Cup9 is a transcriptional repressor that down-regulates
PTR2
. The induction of
PTR2
by peptides or amino acids involves accelerated degradation of Cup9 by the N-end rule pathway. We report here that the Ubr1 N-recognin, which conditionally targets Cup9 for degradation, is phosphorylated in vivo at multiple sites, including Ser
300
and Tyr
277
. We also show that the type-I casein kinases Yck1 and Yck2 phosphorylate Ubr1 on Ser
300
, and thereby make possible (“prime”) the subsequent (presumably sequential) phosphorylations of Ubr1 on Ser
296
, Ser
292
, Thr
288
, and Tyr
277
by Mck1, a kinase of the glycogen synthase kinase 3 (Gsk3) family. Phosphorylation of Ubr1 on Tyr
277
by Mck1 is a previously undescribed example of a cascade-based tyrosine phosphorylation by a Gsk3-type kinase outside of autophosphorylation. We show that the Yck1/Yck2-mediated phosphorylation of Ubr1 on Ser
300
plays a major role in the control of peptide import by the N-end rule pathway. In contrast to phosphorylation on Ser
300
, the subsequent (primed) phosphorylations, including the one on Tyr
277
, have at most minor effects on the known properties of Ubr1, including regulation of peptide import. Thus, a biological role of the rest of Ubr1 phosphorylation cascade remains to be identified.
Stress‐Induced Drinking in Parents of Adolescents with Externalizing Symptomatology: The Moderating Role of Parent Social Support
Authors: Handley Elizabeth D. , Chassin Laurie
Published: November 2008

Parenting adolescents with externalizing symptomatology has been repeatedly shown to be stress‐inducing for parents. One possible coping strategy for parents dealing with this chronic stress may be drinking. The current study extended previous research by examining the prospective relations between adolescents' externalizing behaviors and parents' negative affect and alcohol consumption. Additionally, the present study tested whether this mediated effect is a function of parental social support. Adolescents' externalizing symptoms prospectively predicted mothers' negative affect. Interestingly, however, mothers' negative affect prospectively predicted mothers' drinking only for those mothers with low social support. Furthermore, the mediated effect (Wave 1 adolescent externalizing symptoms → Wave 2 mother negative affect → Wave 3 mother drinking) was significant only for mothers with low social support. There were no effects of adolescents' externalizing symptoms on fathers.
Soft Robotics: Biological Inspiration, State of the Art, and Future Research
Authors: Trivedi Deepak , Rahn Christopher D. , Kier William M. , Walker Ian D.
Published: November 2008

Traditional robots have rigid underlying structures that limit their ability to interact with their environment. For example, conventional robot manipulators have rigid links and can manipulate objects using only their specialised end effectors. These robots often encounter difficulties operating in unstructured and highly congested environments. A variety of animals and plants exhibit complex movement with soft structures devoid of rigid components. Muscular hydrostats (e.g. octopus arms and elephant trunks) are almost entirely composed of muscle and connective tissue and plant cells can change shape when pressurised by osmosis. Researchers have been inspired by biology to design and build soft robots. With a soft structure and redundant degrees of freedom, these robots can be used for delicate tasks in cluttered and/or unstructured environments. This paper discusses the novel capabilities of soft robots, describes examples from nature that provide biological inspiration, surveys the state of the art and outlines existing challenges in soft robot design, modelling, fabrication and control.
Newborns' Memory Processes: A Study on the Effects of Retroactive Interference and Repetition Priming
Authors: Turati Chiara
Published: November 2008

Newborns' memory abilities have been shown in a number of studies. Yet little is known about whether many of the factors that are known to affect encoding, storage, and retrieval in older children and adults are also integral to memory processes at birth. Here we tested for the presence at birth of the retroactive interference and repetition priming effects using the visual paired comparison paradigm. Newborns' memory performance on a visual recognition task was prevented by the interposition of a distractor stimulus between the habituation and the test phase (retroactive interference, Experiment 1). However, forgetting was offset by further brief exposure to the familiar stimulus (repetition priming, Experiments 2 and 3).
Maternal Talk About Mental States and the Emergence of Joint Visual Attention
Authors: Slaughter Virginia , Peterson Candida C. , Carpenter Malinda
Published: November 2008

Twenty‐four infants were tested monthly for gaze and point following between 9 and 15 months of age and mother‐infant free play sessions were also conducted at 9, 12, and 15 months (Carpenter, Nagell, & Tomasello, 1998). Using this data set, this study explored relations between maternal talk about mental states during mothers' free play with their infants and the emergence of joint visual attention in infants. Contrary to hypothesis, mothers' comments about their infants' perceptual states significantly declined after their infants began to engage in joint visual attention. Comments about other mental states did not change relative to acquisition of joint visual attention skill. We speculate that after infants begin to reliably follow gaze and points, mothers may switch the focus of their conversation from their infants' visual behavior and experiences to the object of their mutual attention.
On the Preliminary Psychophysics of Fingerprint Identification
Authors: Vokey John R. , Tangen Jason M. , Cole Simon A.
Published: November 2008

For a century, the matching of images of fingerprints has been used for forensic identification. Despite that history, there have been no published, peer-reviewed studies directly examining the extent to which people can correctly match fingerprints to one another. The results of three experiments using naïve undergraduates to match images of fingerprints are reported. The results demonstrate that people can identify fingerprints quite well, and that matching accuracy can vary as a function of both source finger type and image similarity.
An evolving protocol to identify key stakeholder-influenced indicators of coastal change: the case of Marine Protected Areas
Authors: Vella Prassede , Bowen Robert E. , Frankic Anamarija
Published: November 2008

Vella, P., Bowen, R. E., and Frankic, A. 2009. An evolving protocol to identify key stakeholder-influenced indicators of coastal change: the case of Marine Protected Areas. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 203–213. In recent years, there has been a growing realization of the need to protect and conserve degrading environments. This can only be achieved through integrated management of environmental protection and the rational use of living and non-living resources. However, no management plan that aims at sustainable development can be successful unless the human factor is included. The concept of ecosystem-based management considers socio-economic issues in evaluating management effectiveness. In this paper, we present a method for selecting and prioritizing socio-economic indicators, using a bottom-up approach involving stakeholder input. This technique is developed further to measure the effectiveness of integrated coastal management, using a Marine Protected Area (MPA) as an example. Stakeholder input is essential at an early stage to ensure MPA management success, providing the opportunity to include public participation and ensure community support. This paper presents a transparent and adaptable indicator ranking protocol and evaluative rules, ensuring that an ecosystem-based approach can be more effectively implemented.
Fish ears are sensitive to sex change
Authors: Walker Stefan P.W , McCormick Mark I
Published: November 2008

Many reef fishes change sex during their life. The testing of life-history theory and effective fisheries management therefore relies on our ability to detect when this fundamental transition occurs. This study experimentally illustrates the potential to glean such information from the otolithic bodies of the inner-ear apparatus in the sex-changing fish
Parapercis cylindrica
. It will now be possible to reconstruct the complete, often complex life history of hermaphroditic individuals from hatching through to terminal reproductive status. The validation of sex-change associated otolith growth also illustrates the potential for sex-specific sensory displacement. It is possible that sex-changing fishes alter otolith composition, and thus sensory-range specificity, to optimize life history in accordance with their new reproductive mode.
Independent Losses of Function in a Polyphenol Oxidase in Rice: Differentiation in Grain Discoloration between Subspecies and the Role of Positive Selection under Domestication
Authors: Yu Yanchun , Tang Tian , Qian Qian , Wang Yonghong , Yan Meixian , Zeng Dali , Han Bin , Wu Chung-I , Shi Suhua , Li Jiayang
Published: November 2008

Asian rice (Oryza sativa) cultivars originated from wild rice and can be divided into two subspecies by several criteria, one of which is the phenol reaction (PHR) phenotype. Grains of indica cultivars turn brown in a phenol solution that accelerates a similar process that occurs during prolonged storage. By contrast, the grains of japonica do not discolor. This distinction may reflect the divergent domestication of these two subspecies. The PHR is controlled by a single gene, Phr1; here, we report the cloning of Phr1, which encodes a polyphenol oxidase. The Phr1 gene is indeed responsible for the PHR phenotype, as transformation with a functional Phr1 can complement a PHR negative cultivar. Phr1 is defective in all japonica lines but functional in nearly all indica and wild strains. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the defects in Phr1 arose independently three times. The multiple recent origins and rapid spread of phr1 in japonica suggest the action of positive selection, which is further supported by several population genetic tests. This case may hence represent an example of artificial selection driving the differentiation among domesticated varieties.
Elevated FOSB‐expression; a potential marker of valproate sensitivity in AML
Authors: Khanim Farhat L. , Bradbury Charlotte A. , Arrazi Julie , Hayden Rachel E. , Rye Adam , Basu Supratik , MacWhannell Alan , Sawers Alistair , Griffiths Michael , Cook Mark , Freeman Sylvie , Nightingale Karl P. , Grimwade David , Falciani Francesco , Turner Bryan M. , Bunce Chris M. , Craddock Charles
Published: November 2008

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDIs) are emerging as valuable new agents in the treatment of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). However, since response rates to these agents alone are low, we sought to identify markers associated with responsiveness. In a trial of 20 patients treated with the HDI sodium valproate (VPA) in combination with all trans retinoic acid and theophylline, three patients responded clinically with one complete remission (CR) and two partial remissions. The in vivo response of the CR patient was mirrored by high in vitro sensitivity of their blasts to VPA, indicating that similar factors determine both in vivo and in vitro sensitivity. Microarray analysis of the primary AMLs and a panel of haemato‐lymphoid cell lines, with a similar range of VPA sensitivities as the primary leukaemic blasts, identified elevated FOSB‐expression as a potential marker of VPA sensitivity. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction confirmed overexpression of FOSB in the CR patient blasts compared to patients failing to achieve CR, and in a subset of a larger panel of AML samples. Overexpression of FOSB in K562 myeloid cells significantly increased in vitro sensitivity to VPA. Thus, we propose that FOSB is a novel, potential marker of VPA sensitivity in AML.
Identification of protamine 1 as a novel cancer‐testis antigen in early chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Meklat Farouk , Zhang Yana , Shahriar Masum , Ahmed Sharif U. , Li Wei , Voukkalis Nikolaos , Wang Zhiqing , Zhang Jian , Mastulov Suhkrob , Jewell Andrew , Giannakouros Thomas , Lim Seah H.
Published: November 2008

Early chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is an ideal disease for immunotherapy. We previously showed that SEMG 1 is a cancer‐testis (CT) antigen in CLL. In this study, SEMG 1 was applied as the bait in a yeast two‐hybrid system of a testicular cDNA library. Seven clones were isolated and Protamine (Prm) 1 was identified as a novel CT antigen in early CLL.PRM1transcripts were detected in 11/41 (26·8%) patients. Prm 1 protein was also expressed but heterogeneously within individual patients. Of the 11 patients expressing Prm 1, four expressed Zap 70 protein and seven did not. These results, therefore, indicate that Prm 1 could potentially be a suitable target for the design of tumour vaccine for patients with early CLL, including for those with poor risk CLL. High titres of Prm 1 IgG antibodies could be detected in 20 of these 41 CLL patients but not in any of the 20 healthy donors (P = 0·0001), suggesting the presence of Prm 1‐reactive immune responses within the immune repertoire of patients with early CLL. Further work is warranted, especially in approaches to upregulate Prm 1 expression, and to determine the role of Prm 1 as an immunotherapeutic target for early CLL.
An energy balance from absorbed photons to new biomass for Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and Chlamydomonas acidophila under neutral and extremely acidic growth conditions
Authors: LANGNER UWE , JAKOB TORSTEN , STEHFEST KATJA , WILHELM CHRISTIAN
Published: November 2008

Chlamydomonas is one of the most well‐studied photosynthetic organisms that had important biotechnological potential for future bioproductions of biofuels. However, an energy balance from incident photons to the energy stored in the new biomass is still lacking. In this study, we applied a recently developed system to measure the energy balance for steady state growth of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii grown at pH 6.5, and C. acidophila that was grown at pH 6.5 and 2.6. Energy use efficiency was quantified on the basis of light absorption, photosynthetic quantum yield, photosynthetic and respiratory quotient, and electron partitioning into proteins, carbohydrates and lipids. The results showed that lower growth rates of C. acidophila under both pH conditions were not caused by the differences in the photosynthetic quantum yield or in alternative electron cycling, but rather by differences in the efficiency of light absorption and increased dark respiration. Analysis of the macromolecular composition of the cells during the light phase showed that C. acidophila uses biosynthetic electrons preferentially for carbohydrate synthesis but not for synthesis of lipids. This led to a strong diurnal cycle of the C/N ratio and could explain the higher dark respiration of C. acidophila compared with C. reinhardtii.
Nitrogen in cell walls of sclerophyllous leaves accounts for little of the variation in photosynthetic nitrogen‐use efficiency
Authors: HARRISON MATTHEW T. , EDWARDS EVERARD J. , FARQUHAR GRAHAM D. , NICOTRA ADRIENNE B. , EVANS JOHN R.
Published: November 2008

Photosynthetic rate per unit nitrogen generally declines as leaf mass per unit area (LMA) increases. To determine how much of this decline was associated with allocating a greater proportion of leaf nitrogen into cell wall material, we compared two groups of plants. The first group consisted of two species from each of eight genera, all of which were perennial evergreens growing in the Australian National Botanic Gardens (ANBG). The second group consisted of seven Eucalyptus species growing in a greenhouse. The percentage of leaf biomass in cell walls was independent of variation in LMA within any genus, but varied from 25 to 65% between genera. The nitrogen concentration of cell wall material was 0.4 times leaf nitrogen concentration for all species apart from Eucalyptus, which was 0.6 times leaf nitrogen concentration. Between 10 and 30% of leaf nitrogen was recovered in the cell wall fraction, but this was independent of LMA. No trade‐off was observed between nitrogen associated with cell walls and the nitrogen allocated to ribulose 1·5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco). Variation in photosynthetic rate per unit nitrogen could not be explained by variation in cell wall nitrogen.
Multifocal cutaneous and systemic plasmablastic lymphoma in an infant with combined living donor small bowel and liver transplant
Authors: Apichai Seema , Rogalska Agnieszka , Tzvetanov Ivo , Asma Zeenath , Benedetti Enrico , Gaitonde Sujata
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  Small bowel allograft recipients have a relatively high risk (approximately 20%) of developing PTLD. Onset of PTLD is usually soon after transplant (median of eight months). Children are at a higher risk than adults. Although PBL was originally described in 1997 by Delecluse et al. as a human immunodeficiency virus‐associated neoplasm typically presenting in the oral cavity, it is now recognized as a PTLD. We describe an unusual and interesting case and to our knowledge the first case of an infant who developed diffuse multifocal cutaneous and systemic PBL shortly after small bowel and liver transplant. We report a case of a 14‐month‐old female child who received a small bowel and liver transplant from her father. She had excellent graft function with no rejection episodes. Five months post‐transplant she developed a sudden gastrointestinal bleed and was noted to have a constantly rising EBV titer despite ongoing maximal antiviral therapy. A patchy erythematous rash was noted on her abdomen that was diagnosed as PBL–PTLD. By the time of this diagnosis, she had developed multiorgan failure unresponsive to therapy.
The effect of donor/recipient body surface area ratio on outcomes in pediatric kidney transplantation
Authors: Giuliani Stefano , Gamba Pier Giorgio , Chokshi Nikunj Kanu , Gasparella Paolo , Murer Luisa , Zanon Giovanni Franco
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  In pediatric kidney transplantation, the effect of inadequate nephron dosing on graft survival remains undetermined. The aim of this study was to assess the use of D/R BSA, as a reliable indicator of adequate nephron dosing, and eventually a tool to optimize pediatric graft allocation. Following Institutional Review Board approval, we reviewed deceased donor pediatric kidney transplantation (N = 156). We divided patients into three groups, based on D/R BSA: A ≤0.8; B 0.81–1.19; C ≥1.2. Five‐yr graft survival rates in the groups were: A 82.0%; B 94.9%; C 97.1% (p = 0.01). Group C had the lowest rate of acute rejection, suggesting a protective effect of increased D/R BSA (group A = 35.7%, group B = 38.9%, group C = 18.8%; p = 0.029). The logistic regression analysis showed that decreased D/R BSA ratio is a risk factor for loss of graft function, at one and five yr [i.e., group A OR 6 (95% CI 1.14–39.30, p = 0.015) and OR 4.49 (95% CI 1.46–13.79, p = 0.009), respectively]. We conclude that for pediatric recipients, D/R BSA is a valuable adjunct when determining long‐term graft survival. Its utility may avoid an alloimmune‐independent risk factor, increasing the long‐term protective value of a good matching policy.
A selection tool for freezing tolerance in common wheat using the fast chlorophyll a fluorescence transient
Authors: Rapacz M. , Woźniczka A.
Published: November 2008

The analysis of fast chlorophyll fluorescence induction kinetics in dark‐adapted leaves (JIP‐test) is proposed as a rapid method for evaluating freezing tolerance in wheat. Wheat leaves were detached from the plants of 40 cultivars grown in an open‐field in Smolice, during December and March of winters 2004/2005 and 2005/2006, transferred to laboratory in Krakow and frozen in −15°C. Next, measurements of chlorophyll fluorescence were taken. The correlation coefficients between the JIP‐test parameters with freezing tolerance data obtained in multiple field‐laboratory studies, varied between 0.58 and 0.70 depending on sampling time and parameter measured. The chlorophyll fluorescence parameter, which can always be used for the screening of freezing tolerance in the method described here, is the performance index (PI), which characterizes the overall energy flow efficiency in photosystem II (PSII). The results indicate, that the technique proposed here can be useful for freezing tolerance screening in plant breeding programmes. However, this method seems to be a more reliable tool in the selection of freezing tolerant germplasm, than for discarding freezing susceptible materials.
Analysis of placenta vascularization in patients with uterine altered artery Doppler flow velocity exams
Authors: Gilio Daniel Bruno , Miranda Corrêa Rosana Rosa , De Oliveira Guimarães Camila Souza , Peres Luiz Cesar , Marques Salge Ana Karina , Cavellani Camila Lourencini , De Paula Antunes Teixeira Vicente , Da Cunha Castro Eumenia Costa
Published: November 2008

Background:  One of the frequent questions in obstetric practice is to determine placental vascular changes that may account for abnormal Doppler flow velocity alterations in maternal uterine vessels from women and fetuses without pregnancy pathology.

Methods:  A retrospective morphometric study was realized using 27 placentas from patients submitted for Doppler flow velocity exam during pregnancy. The placentas were morphologically examined using hematoxylin–eosin staining. Measurements of villi were made with the use of a video camera coupled to a common light microscope and a computer with automatic image analyzing software.

Results:  Of the 27 placentas, 13 (48%) were of patients showing unaltered Doppler and 14 (52%) showing altered Doppler. The number of stem villi vessels was significantly larger in the placentas of patients with Doppler exam alterations (P = 0.003). This group also presented greater stem villi vessel thickness, although without significant difference. The number of intermediary and terminal villi vessels was greater in the placentas of patients with altered Doppler exams (P < 0.001), and a greater terminal villi area was observed in these cases (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  The morphological proof that uterine artery Doppler flow velocity exam alterations are associated with placental vascular alterations demonstrates the importance of this exam during prenatal care, even in the absence of maternal–fetal alterations.
A case of congenital toxoplasmosis whose mother demonstrated serum low IgG avidity and positive tests for multiplex‐nested PCR in the amniotic fluid
Authors: Nishikawa Akira , Yamada Hideto , Yamamoto Tomohiro , Mizue Yuka , Akashi Yushi , Hayashi Takumi , Nihei Takehito , Nishiwaki Morie , Nishihira Jun
Published: November 2008

We encountered a woman whose infant developed congenital toxoplasmosis. Serum Toxoplasma gondii antibody titers (320×) at 12 weeks of gestation increased to 5120× at 25 weeks. Toxoplasma immunoglobulin M was 2.8 index, and immunoglobulin G avidity index was 23%. Cyclic administration of acetylspiramycin was maintained from 22 weeks until delivery. Multiplex‐nested polymerase chain reaction of maternal blood and amniotic fluid at 28 weeks both tested positive for Toxoplasma DNA. A male neonate weighing 2916 g was born at 38 weeks via cesarean section. No abnormalities were detected by physical and funduscopic examinations, whereas a head computed tomography of the neonate revealed three independent intracranial calcifications. The infant underwent therapy with pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine for one year. Serum titers of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies were all less than cut‐off values between 5 and 12 months after birth, but all increased up to positive levels 18 months after birth.
Elucidating the nutritional dynamics of fungi using stable isotopes
Authors: Mayor Jordan R. , Schuur Edward A. G. , Henkel Terry W.
Published: November 2008

Mycorrhizal and saprotrophic (SAP) fungi are essential to terrestrial element cycling due to their uptake of mineral nutrients and decomposition of detritus. Linking these ecological roles to specific fungi is necessary to improve our understanding of global nutrient cycling, fungal ecophysiology, and forest ecology. Using discriminant analyses of nitrogen (δ15N) and carbon (δ13C) isotope values from 813 fungi across 23 sites, we verified collector‐based categorizations as either ectomycorrhizal (ECM) or SAP in > 91% of the fungi, and provided probabilistic assignments for an additional 27 fungi of unknown ecological role. As sites ranged from boreal tundra to tropical rainforest, we were able to show that fungal δ13C (26 sites) and δ15N (32 sites) values could be predicted by climate or latitude as previously shown in plant and soil analyses. Fungal δ13C values are likely reflecting differences in C‐source between ECM and SAP fungi, whereas 15N enrichment of ECM fungi relative to SAP fungi suggests that ECM fungi are consistently delivering 15N depleted N to host trees across a range of ecosystem types.
Bacterial pleomorphism and competition in a relative humidity gradient
Authors: De Goffau Marcus C. , Yang Xiaomei , Van Dijl Jan Maarten , Harmsen Hermie J. M.
Published: November 2008

The response of different bacterial species to reduced water availability was studied using a simple relative humidity gradient technique. Interestingly, distinct differences in morphology and growth patterns were observed between populations of the same species growing at different relative humidity. Gram‐positive cocci increased in cell size as they approached humidity growth limits and staphylococcal species started growing in tetrad/cubical formations instead of their normal grape‐like structures. Gram‐negative rods displayed wave‐like patterns, forming larger waves as they became increasingly filamentous at low humidity. In contrast, cells of the Gram‐positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis became shorter, curved, and eventually almost coccoid. Moreover, B. subtilis started to sporulate at low humidity. The altered morphology and/or growth patterns of bacteria growing at low humidity might be more ecologically relevant than their textbook appearance at high humidity since their natural habitats are often dry. Transmission electron microscopic analyses revealed that staphylococci grown at low humidity have significantly thickened cell walls, which may explain why these cells displayed increased resistance to vancomycin. We conclude that our relative humidity gradient technique is widely applicable for investigating effects of relative humidity on microbial survival, growth and competitive success at solid–air interfaces, making it a versatile tool in microbial ecology.
The skull ofVanzosaura rubricauda(Squamata: Gymnophthalmidae)
Authors: Guerra Cecilia , Montero Ricardo
Published: November 2008

A detailed description of the cranial osteology and chondrocranium ofVanzosaura rubricaudais made based both on articulated and partially disarticulated material of dry skeletons and cleared and stained specimens, and is compared with other previously studied gymnophthalmids. Some features ofVanzosauraare interesting, such as the reduction of the supratemporal fenestrae, that may reflect a process of miniaturization, and the fusion of the occipital bones in a single oto‐occipital complex with no evident sutures. Based on the anatomical evidence, the skull ofVanzosaurais interpreted as amphikinetic.
Nephroptosis: a Cause of Renal Pain and a Potential Cause of Inaccurate Split Renal Function Determination
Authors: O'REILLY P. H. , POLLARD A. J.
Published: November 2008

Summary— We present 3 cases of nephroptosis encountered in young females over a 6‐month period which posed diagnostic difficulties and gave inaccurate split renal function determinations until the true situation was disclosed. A syndrome is described of clinical presentation with right upper quadrant pain, erect hippuran renography showing an apparently small right kidney and reduced function but with normal time to peak and elimination phase on the curve (the “miniaturised” renogram) and erect and supine DMSA scintigraphy which confirms the diagnosis of abnormal renal mobility. Guidelines are suggested by which nephroptosis can be recognised and assessed in urological and nuclear medicine practice.
Is Antibiotic Prophylaxis Necessary for Routine Urodynamic Investigations?: A Controlled Study in 100 Patients
Authors: COPTCOAT M. J. , REED C. , CUMMING J. , SHAH P. J. R. , WORTH P. H. L.
Published: November 2008

Summary— The value of a prophylactic antibiotic before a routine cystometrogram has been assessed in a controlled trial of 100 patients. The infection rate was low and not statistically different in both groups. Subsequent symptoms of dysuria and haematuria had a mechanical aetiology.
Benefits of Combination Therapy with Flutamide in Patients Relapsing after Castration
Authors: LABRIE F. , DUPONT A. , GIGUERE M. , BORSANYI J.‐P. , LACOURCIERE Y. , MONFETTE G. , EMOND J. , BERGERON N.
Published: November 2008

Summary— Two hundred and nine patients with biopsy‐proven stage D2 prostatic carcinoma showing disease progression after orchiectomy or treatment with DES (stilboestrol) or an LHRH agonist alone received combination therapy with the pure antiandrogen flutamide. In patients treated with DES, the oestrogen was replaced by the LHRH agonist [D‐Trp6]LHRH ethylamide. The objective response to therapy was assessed according to the criteria of the US NPCP. Thirteen patients had a complete response to treatment, while partial and stable responses were achieved in 20 and 39 patients respectively (total objective response rate of 34.5%). The mean duration of response was 24 months. In the non‐responders the median survival was 8.1 months with a 17% probability of survival at 2 years; the probabilities of survival at 2 years of the patients who showed partial and stable responses were 87 and 67% respectively. All patients who achieved a complete response are still alive. Combination therapy with Flutamide and castration (surgical or LHRH agonist) appears to be the treatment of choice for prostate cancer patients in relapse after standard endocrine therapy.
Abdominoscrotal Hydrocelein Infancy
Authors: SQUIRE R. , GOUGH D. C. S.
Published: November 2008

Summary— Abdominoscrotal hydrocele is the primary cause of a lower abdominal cystic tumour in association with an inguinoscrotal hydrocele in infancy. Treatment is surgical, with excision of all elements of the hydrocele sac through an inguinal skin crease incision.

We discuss the aetiological theories in the light of our surgical experience in three cases and we report the first bilateral case.
Immunobiotherapy with Uro‐Vaxom in Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: TAMMEN H.
Published: November 2008

Summary— A series of 120 patients with recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI), all in acute recurrence at the start of the trial, were treated for 3 months under double‐blind conditions with 1 capsule daily of either the immunobiotherapeutic product Uro‐Vaxom (UV) or a placebo. They were then observed for 3 months without treatment. During the 6 months of the trial a significant decrease was noted in the UV group compared with the placebo group with respect to the number of recurrences of UTI, total consumption of antibiotics and chemotherapeutic agents, bacteriuria and dysuria. By the sixth month the UV patients were receiving no antibiotics. The final assessment was that UV was significantly more effective than the placebo. UV was well tolerated, with possible mild side effects in only 4 patients. During a further observation period of 5 months, patients who had received UV during the first period had fewer recurrences of UTI than those who had received placebo, confirming the long‐term protective action of UV.
The Incidence of Post‐operative Urinary Tract Infection in Patients with Ureteric Stents
Authors: FRANCO G. , DE DOMINICIS C. , FORNO S. DAL , IORI F. , LAURENTI C.
Published: November 2008

Summary— Despite the many advantages provided by the ureteric stent, it produces a foreign body reaction and increases the risk of infection. We undertook a study on the rate of infection in a group of paediatric patients with ureteric stents; 40 ureteric stents, 6 to 9 F, were used in 36 children undergoing the following procedures: 18 pyeloplasties, 20 antireflux ureteric reimplantations and 2 uretero‐rectal anastomoses. Only patients with sterile urine pre‐operatively were included in the study. All received antibiotic cover in the post‐operative period.

Positive urine cultures were found in only 3 patients (7.5%). In spite of this low incidence, the urine specimens collected from all children 1 month after removal of the stent showed a much higher incidence of infection. It was concluded that ureteric stenting is a safe procedure with a low rate of infection provided that antibiotic cover is given.
Acceleration of Flow Rate as a Screening Test for Detrusor Instability in Women with Stress Incontinence
Authors: CUCCHI A.
Published: November 2008

Summary— Forty females with urinary stress incontinence (mean age 52 ± 10 years) and 20 age‐matched controls (mean age 49 ± 15 years) underwent complete urodynamic evaluation. In the former group, all patients complained of irritative bladder symptoms (frequency, nocturia, urgency) and 20 of them (Group B) showed detrusor instability (DI); in the other 20 (Group A) a final urodynamic diagnosis of genuine stress incontinence (GSI) was made. Instability was not apparent in Group B at standard filling cystometry, but had to be elicited through aggressively stressing the bladder by provocation tests.

In all women the acceleration of flow rate (±, in ml/s2) was calculated from free flow uroflowmetry as the ratio of peak flow divided by the time to peak flow. This parameter did not differ significantly in GSI patients when compared with controls but proved higher in the DI group than in either the controls or the GSI patients.

It was concluded that measuring the acceleration of flow rate is a simple and reliable test which improves the accuracy of diagnosis of detrusor instability in stress incontinent women.
Multicentre Controlled Trial of Indoramin in the Symptomatic Relief of Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy
Authors: CHOW W. , HAHN D. , SANDHU D. , SLANEY P. , HENSHAW R. , DAS G. , WELLS P.
Published: November 2008

Summary— A group of 139 patients with symptoms of bladder outflow obstruction due to benign prostatic hypertrophy were entered into a double‐blind, parallel group, multicentre study of 2 doses of indoramin versus placebo. There were 18 withdrawals or exclusions, leaving 121 patients for anaIysis.

After 8 weeks, mean peak flow rates increased more in patients treated with indoramin 20 mg bd than in those with placebo. The difference between indoramin 20 mg nocte and placebo was not significant. The change in mean peak flow rate for the higher dose of indoramin represented an increase of 50%. Both patients and investigators reported that the patients' symptoms had improved significantly on both indoramin 20 mg bd and 20 mg nocte; 9 patients were withdrawn because of adverse events, 5 taking placebo and 2 in each of the treatment groups.

It was concluded that indoramin 20 mg bd was both effective and well tolerated in the management of symptomatic benign prostatic hypertrophy.
Alternatives to Radiotherapy in the Management of Seminoma
Authors: OLIVER R.T. D. , LORE SHARON , ONG JOSEPHINE
Published: November 2008

Summary— In a period from January 1978 to January 1989, 114 patients with seminoma have been managed, primarily in studies aimed at examining alteratives to radiotherapy. In a pilot study of single agent platinum in 27 previously untreated patients with metastatic seminoma, 82% remain progression‐free and 89% alive and disease‐free at 5 years compared with 81% progression‐free and 88% alive and disease‐free in a selected group of 16 previously untreated patients who received platinum‐based combination treatment. Results from a pilot study of surveillance in 26 patients with stage 1 seminoma showed that 27% developed evidence of further disease (5 relapses, 2 second tumours) by 3 years, with all relapse patients salvaged by subsequent treatment. Because of the slow pace of relapse compared with malignant teratoma, with relapses occurring after 2 years, a pilot study was initiated to evaluate the effect of 2 courses of adjuvant carboplatin. The results to date in 25 patients suggest that with the use of modern antiemetics this regimen is as well tolerated as prophylactic radiotherapy. With a median follow‐up of 16 months there has been 1 relapse subsequently salvaged by combination chemotherapy. A radomised trial is now justified to assess the quality of life and late toxicity of this approach compared with prophylactic radiotherapy.
Follow‐up Results with the Stamey Operation for Stress Incontinence of Urine
Authors: ASHKEN M. HANDLEY
Published: November 2008

Summary— Medium‐term results are reported in 100 patients who had a Stamey operation for genuine stress incontinence. The results were good in 72, improved in 8 and 20 were failures when assessed clinically and with pad tests. Most of the failures occurred in the first post‐operative year. A repeat Stamey operation was easy and the results have been good in 7 of the 8 cases. Bladder outflow obstruction, urinary infection and wound sepsis were not a problem.
Life with a Urostomy
Authors: CHADWICK D. J. , STOWER M. J.
Published: November 2008

Summary— The quality of life of urostomy patients was assessed by direct interview. Specific problems, such as urine leakage, were documented and the size, site and quality of the stoma were assessed. The study included 41 patients; 83% noted an improvement in the quality of life since their urinary diversion and 90% were still able to work or continue to perform household duties. Urine leakage was the commonest problem and this was unrelated to the length of the stoma or the build of the patient. More important factors were the correct siting of the stoma and the avoidance of parastomal herniation. All patients emphasised the importance of the stoma therapist.
Sperm Motility, Velocity and Migration
Authors: BADENOCH D. F. , MOORE H. D. M. , HOLT W. V. , EVANS P. R. , SIDHU B. S. , EVANS S. J. W.
Published: November 2008

Summary— Four different methods for evaluating sperm motility were analysed for experimental error: subjective assessment of a wet film preparation, sperm velocity measured by time‐lapse photography, sperm velocity measured by computer analysis and sperm migration across a nucleopore membrane.

Subjective assessment of motility was found to be inaccurate, within single observer and between 2 observers.

Both methods of measuring mean sperm velocity were accurate, particularly that using the computer analysis system; a high technical failure rate was found using time‐lapse photography. Sperm migration across a nucleopore membrane was found to be highly inaccurate.

Two groups were then analysed for the predictive value of these tests (excluding sperm migration): 104 proven fertile men and 53 infertile men. Although subjective motility was able to predict from which group the sample came at optimum cut‐off with 78% accuracy, computer analysed sperm velocity could predict with overall 91% accuracy at optimum cut‐off.

Computer analysis of sperm velocity offers a rapid, objective and predictive assessment of sperm function.
Does Urethral Instrumentation Affect Uroflowmetry Measurements?
Authors: TESSIER JOCELYNE , SCHICK E.
Published: November 2008

Summary— Uroflowmetry was performed before and after urethral catheterisation in 129 patients. Uroflowmetry measurements were significantly modified by urethral instrumentation. In males, both maximum and mean flow rates decreased following urethral catheterisation, while in females only the maximum flow rate decreased, the mean flow rate remaining unchanged. Voided volume increased (and consequently resdidual urine decreased) in females after catheterisation, but did not change significantly in males. False positive results were encountered in 32% of patients and false negative results in 11% when flowmetry was done immediately after catheterisation. Uroflowmetry after urethral instrumentation is not recommended.
De‐differentiation with Time in Prostate Cancer and the Influence of Treatment on the Course of the Disease
Authors: CUMMING J. A. , RITCHIE A. W. S. , GOODMAN C. M. , McINTYRE MARGARET A. , CHISHOLM G. D.
Published: November 2008

Summary— There is little information on histological changes in prostate cancer during the course of the disease. We have studied 74 patients with carcinoma of the prostate who required 2 transurethral resections of the prostate (mean interval between resections 2.4 years). They constituted 18.4% of all patients with carcinoma of the prostate presenting to our clinic between January 1978 and April 1988. All tumours were staged by conventional methods and graded using the Gleason system. The Gleason sum score in those patients with tumour in both specimens increased in 49, remained constant in 12 and decreased in 7.

Within this group were 34 patients who were treated expectantly. The mean Gleason sum scores in this group increased, with a concomitant increase in local tumour stage and development of metastases. Although this was not a randomised trial, there was no significant difference in survival between patients having “deferred” management and those treated immediately, either from time of diagnosis or from time of second resection. There was, however, a significant difference in the time to second resection, with the “deferred” group requiring repeat resection on average 1 year earlier.

This study confirmed the concept of tumour de‐differentiation with time and showed that this phenomenon occurs in both treated and untreated tumours. Although overall survival was not influenced by the type of initial therapy or its timing, local progression, as assessed by the need for further TURP, occurred earlier in those not receiving immediate therapy.
Prediction of Response to Radiotherapy in Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: JENKINS B. J. , MARTIN J. E. , BAITHUN S. I. , ZUK R. J. , OLIVER R. T. D. , BLANDY J. P.
Published: November 2008

Summary— The original pre‐treatment histological sections from 125 patients with invasive (T2/T3) transitional cell bladder cancer treated by radical radiotherapy were studied; 63 tumours responded completely to radiation and 62 did not; 55 of 72 tumours containing areas of squamous metaplasia and 27 of 36 staining for beta‐human chorionic gonadotrophin failed to respond to radiotherapy; 26 of 28 tumours showing both squamous metaplasia and beta‐human chorionic gonadotrophin did not respond to radiation, whereas 40 of 45 tumours without either of these features responded.

The DNA ploidy of 86 tumours in the series was measured by flow cytometry; 11 of 27 aneuploid and 30 of 59 diploid tumours responded to irradiation.

Squamous metaplasia and beta‐human chorionic gonadotrophin in bladder cancer indicate resistance to radiotherapy but DNA ploidy does not.
Local Microwave Hyperthermia in the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy
Authors: SARANGA R. , MATZKIN H. , BRAF Z.
Published: November 2008

Summary— Local deep microwave hyperthermia has been introduced recently for the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). We report the results of treatment in 114 patients divided into 2 groups. The first group included 83 patients with severe obstructive symptoms. Although some improvement was found in the scoring of both subjective and objective parameters, the number of patients benefiting was small, with only 28% showing improvement in both parameters. Approximately 50% reported subjective improvement but in only 25% was this significant. In 42% there was objective evidence of improvement. Prostatic volumes did not change as a result of treatment.

The second group comprised 31 patients with indwelling catheters because of acute urinary retention. After treatment, 19 patients (61%) were able to dispense with the catheter.

The difficulties of interpreting an open trial of treatment for BPH and assessing its impact on objective parameters and symptomatology are discussed. Our results should be regarded cautiously in view of these reservations.
Gravity Cavernosometry—a Simple Diagnostic test for Cavernosal Incompetence
Authors: PUECH‐LEAO P. , CHAO S. , GLINA S. , REICHELT A. C.
Published: November 2008

Summary— The papaverine test has been widely used as a diagnostic procedure in erectile impotence. However, when patients do not achieve full erection on the test, it is necessary to differentiate between insufficient inflow and excessive outflow.

Gravity cavernosometry is a method designed to evaluate the pressure responses in the corpora when they are subjected to a constant infusion pressure. The infusion flow is of minor significance.

The intracavernous pressure (ICP) was measured in cadavers, in psychogenically impotent patients and in patients with arteriogenic impotence, following administration of papaverine and gravity perfusion.

During perfusion in cadavers and in psychogenic patients, the ICP showed values above 110 cm H2O, while in arteriogenic patients the values ranged from 30 to 141 cm H2O. In the arteriogenic group, 11/20 patients had an ICP lower than 110 during perfusion. There was no correlation between the pre‐perfusion pressure and the final pressure with perfusion.

Gravity cavernosometry is a simple, cost‐effective and reliable method for the assessment of corporeal competence.
Erection and Ejaculation in Man. Assessment of the Electromyographic Activity of the Bulbocavernosus and Ischiocavernosus Muscles
Authors: GERSTENBERG T. C. , LEVIN R. J. , WAGNER G.
Published: November 2008

Summary— Electromyographic (EMG) recordings were obtained by concentric needle electrodes from the bulbocavernosus (BC) and ischiocavernosus (IC) muscles in 7 human volunteers during excitement to erection and subsequent ejaculation. Simultaneous registration of the time course and volume of each expressed spurt of semen was obtained using an aluminium pan suspended in front of the subject's penis on a force transducer the output of which was charted with the EMG activity. The BC and IC muscles showed no EMG activity during erection and detumescence cycles induced by visual sex stimulation. In 5 of 7 subjects, the first EMG burst of the BC in ejaculations induced by masturbation was not correlated with an expelled spurt of semen as were subsequent bursts. However, only 26 to 60% of the total number of EMG bursts were accompanied by expulsion of a spurt of semen. There thus appears to be a large safety factor in the striated muscle expulsive mechanism. Oral phenoxybenzamine treatment in 2 subjects did not significantly affect either the number of EMG bursts of the BC or the subjective pleasure of the orgasm but did significantly reduce the volume of semen expelled. Semen volume does not appear to be a unique determinant of the pleasure felt or the trigger for ejaculation.
Disorders of Micturition in Tabes Dorsalis
Authors: HATTORI T. , YASUDA K. , KITA K. , HIRAYAMA K.
Published: November 2008

Summary— The aim of this study was to determine whether the disorders of micturition that occur in patients with tabes dorsalis can be attributed exclusively to disturbed bladder sensation, as has been previously suggested. Urodynamic studies were performed in 8 patients with tabes dorsalis who had no obvious organic obstructive urological disease. The results indicated that not only disturbed bladder sensation but also suprasacral and/or sacral lesions innervating the detrusor could be responsible for voiding dysfunction in such patients.