bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Technique for Sorting Rat Gonadotropes using Anti‐LH or Anti‐FSH Antibodies Covalently attached to Magnetic Beads
Authors: Valenti S. , Sarkissian A. , Giusti M. , Giordano G. , Dahl K. D.
Published: September 2006

A technique for sorting live LH‐ and FSH‐secreting cells was developed. After enzymatic dispersion, a suspension of pituitary cells from male rats castrated 7 days earlier was incubated in potassium chloride (KCI 50 mmol/l) for 30 min and gonadotropin outflow was provoked. Then, considering either LH or FSH as temporary surface markers, we positively selected the secreting cells by means of antibodies toward either LH (anti‐LH beads) or FSH (anti‐FSH beads) covalently attached to magnetic beads. The spontaneous secretion of LH and FSH overnight and the release induced by KCI the following morning were calculated. A population enriched in gonadotropes (16% of the total) able to secrete both gonadotropins was selected by means of anti‐LH beads; this released 7 times as much LH as non‐selected cells. A similar population (14% of the total) was selected by means of anti‐FSH‐coated beads; this produced 3.3 times as much LH as non‐selected cells.

In some experiments, the cells not previously sorted with anti‐LH‐coated beads were further incubated in the presence of anti‐FSH beads, in an attempt to isolate a population secreting only FSH. A limited number of cells were sorted (6% of the total cells), able to produce both gonadotropins, but with a lower LH/FSH ratio.

Similarly, those cells excluded by the selection with anti‐FSH beads were further incubated with anti‐LH beads, with a view to obtaining only‐LH‐secreting cells. However, both gonadotropins were still secreted by these cells (8% of the total), which had the highest LH/FSH ratio.

In conclusion, fractions from castrated male rats that are enriched in gonadotropes contain cells that secrete both gonadotropins in vitro. The secretion of LH is prevalent. However, differences in the LH/FSH ratio between the populations sorted and changes from spontaneous to stimulated release are observed. This suggests that some gonadotropes might ‘specialize’ in releasing LH and others in releasing both LH and FSH.
Effect of Parathyroid Hormone and Calcitonin on Cholinergic Markers in Rat Parathyroid Gland
Authors: Stern Javier E. , Cardinali Daniel P.
Published: September 2006

The effect of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcitonin on 3H‐choline uptake and on 3H‐acetylcholine synthesis by rat parathyroid glands were examined. Incubation of tissue for 120 min with PTH or calcitonin resulted in an inverted bell‐shaped, dose‐dependent inhibition of 3H‐choline uptake, with a maximal effect at 10−9 M Concentration. The effect of PTH on parathyroid choline uptake was blunted by preincubation with the PTH antagonist NLe8–18 ‐PTH (3–34) amide. PTH brought about a dose‐dependent inhibition of 3H‐choline conversion to 3H‐acetylcholine, with significant effects at 10−8 M concentration or higher. This inhibitory effect of PTH on 3H‐acetylcholine synthesis was blocked by co‐incubation with the PTH antagonist NLe8–18‐PTH (3–34) amide. Only at a 10−7 M concentration calcitonin was effective to impair the in vitro conversion of radioactive choline into 3H‐acetylcholine by parathyroid fragments. The results indicate that, in vitro, PTH, and to a less extent, calcitonin, inhibit cholinergic activity in rat parathyroid glands.
Mechanism of Action of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase‐Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) in Human Nonfunctioning Pituitary Tumors
Authors: Lania Andrea , Gil‐del‐Alamo Paloma , Saccomanno Katia , Persani Luca , Faglia Giovanni , Spada Anna
Published: September 2006

Several evidence suggest that pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptides (PACAP‐38 and ‐27) could function as hypophysiotropic factors. Both peptides interact with either the type I receptor, which preferentially binds the two PACAPs and has a much lower affinity for vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) or the type II receptor, which binds the two PACAPs and VIP with a nearly equal affinity. In addition to the stimulation of adenylyl cyclase (AC) activity, in different cell types PACAP causes an increase of cytosolic calcium levels ([Ca2+]i), consequent to phospholipase‐C activation. In the present study, we investigated the effect of PACAP on cAMP formation and [Ca2+]i levels in 16 human nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (NFPA). PACAP‐38 increased cAMP formation in all tumors; the peptide stimulated either AC activity in membrane preparations from 26 ± 10 to 214 ± 179 pmol/mg prot/min (P < 0.01) or cAMP efflux from 12 ± 5.4 to 73.2 ± 32 pmol/well (P < 0.01) in cultured cells. The effect, detectable at concentrations higher than 1‐10 pM, was maximal at 0.1‐10 nM. While PACAP‐38 and PACAP‐27 were nearly equally effective and potent, 100‐fold higher concentrations of VIP were required to obtain similar AC activation. GHRH and CRH were ineffective in any NFPA. The PACAP effect was not antagonized by a VIP antagonist, while PACAP fragment 6–27 amide partially reduced the stimulatory effects of both PACAP‐27 and VIP in 2 out of 3 tumors tested. PACAP‐38 caused a [Ca2+]i rise in cells obtained from 7 NFPA (from 110 ± 34 to 151 ± 40 nM [Ca2+]i, P < 0.05) while in the remaining 7 the peptide was ineffective at any concentrations tested (from 1 nM to 10 μM). In the responsive tumors, PACAP‐38 effect was not consequence of phospholipase‐C activation since removal of extracellular Ca2+ as well as blockade of L‐type Ca2+ channels by dihydropyridine antagonists abolished [Ca2+]i increase triggered by the peptide. These data indicate that PACAP is by far the most potent activator of cAMP formation in NFPA and suggest a possible modulatory action of this peptide on cell growth.
Effects of Continuous and Repetitive Administration of a Potent Analog of GH‐RH(1–30)‐NH2 on the GH Release in Rats Treated with Monosodium Glutamate
Authors: Kovács Magdolna , Fáncsik András , Hrabovsky Erik , Mezö Imre , Teplán István , Flerkó Béla
Published: September 2006

To assess the efficacy of a potent GH‐releasing hormone (GH‐RH) analog (D‐Ala2, Nle27, Gaba30‐GH‐RH‐(1–30)‐amide) in the treatment of GH deficiency, we investigated the effects of chronic administration of this analog (A‐495) on growth responses in monosodium glutamate (MSG)‐lesioned rats. Basal serum GH concentrations, GH responses to bolus injections of GH‐RH, as well as acceleration of body gain and linear growth were compared after long‐term continuous and repetitive administration of A‐495. The effects of continuous and repetitive administration of the analog on GH responses in vitro were also compared using the superfused pituitary cell system method. Treatment with MSG reduced the body weight and linear growth of the animals (− 22% and −11%, respectively), the basal serum GH concentration (− 66%), and the GH‐RH‐induced absolute GH responses (− 61%) but did not alter the relative GH responses (to basal GH concentrations). Repetitive administration of 10 pg daily doses of A‐495 at 24 h intervals for 2 weeks highly increased the GH responsiveness to GH‐RH and induced catch‐up growth, by which MSG‐treated animals achieved the growth rate of normal controls. However, basal serum GH concentrations were only modestly enhanced. Continuous infusion of A‐495 at the same daily dose resulted in slight increases in the GH‐RH‐induced GH rises, moderate acceleration of body gain, and no change in linear growth. Basal serum GH concentrations were not significantly influenced by this treatment. These results demonstrate that exogenous GH‐RH pulses administered at lower frequency than the frequency of the physiological GH secretion are able to fully restore the normal growth rate of the GH deficient rats. The effectivity of the treatment is rather dependent on the magnitude of GH rises than the basal GH level. Although continuous administrations of the GH‐RH is also have some effect on the body gain, repetitive administration is more effective at the same daily dose. Our results from in vitro experiments show that, in addition to the low magnitude of the GH‐RH‐stimulated GH rises, desensitization of the GH secretory response might also be accounted for the low effectivity of the continuously administered GH‐RH. Present results demonstrate the therapeutic usefulness of our new GH‐RH analog and are the first to evidence that GH‐RH need not be administered as frequently as the appearance of the endogenous GH pulses to restore the normal growth of the GH deficient rats.
The Rcs phosphorelay system is specific to enteric pathogens/commensals and activates ydeI, a gene important for persistent Salmonella infection of mice
Authors: Erickson Kimberly D. , Detweiler Corrella S.
Published: September 2006

Bacteria utilize phosphorelay systems to respond to environmental or intracellular stimuli. Salmonella enterica encodes a four‐step phosphorelay system that involves two sensor kinase proteins, RcsC and RcsD, and a response regulator, RcsB. The physiological stimulus for Rcs phosphorelay activation is unknown; however, Rcs‐regulated genes can be induced in vitro by osmotic shock, low temperature and antimicrobial peptide exposure. In this report we investigate the role of the Rcs pathway using phylogenetic analysis and experimental techniques. Phylogenetic analysis determined that full‐length RcsC‐ and RcsD‐like proteins are generally restricted to Enterobacteriaceae species that have an enteric pathogenic or commensal relationship with the host. Experimental data show that RcsD and RcsB, in addition to RcsC, are important for systemic infection in mice and polymyxin B resistance in vitro. To identify Rcs‐regulated genes that confer these phenotypes, we took advantage of our observation that RcsA, a transcription factor and binding partner of RcsB, is not required for polymyxin B resistance or survival in mice. S. enterica serovar Typhimurium oligonucleotide microarrays were used to identify 18 loci that are activated by RcsC, RcsD and RcsB but not RcsA. Five of the 18 loci encode genes that contribute to polymyxin B resistance. One of these genes, ydeI, was shown by quantitative real‐time PCR to be regulated by the Rcs pathway independently of RcsA. Additionally, the stationary‐phase sigma factor, RpoS (sigmaS), regulates ydeI transcription. In vivo infections show that ydeI mutants are out‐competed by wild type 10‐ to 100‐fold after oral inoculation, but are only modestly attenuated after intraperitoneal inoculation. These data indicate that ydeI is an Rcs‐activated gene that plays an important role in persistent infection of mice, possibly by increasing bacterial resistance to antimicrobial peptides.
Competition of bacteriophage polypeptides with native replicase proteins for binding to the DNA sliding clamp reveals a novel mechanism for DNA replication arrest in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Belley Adam , Callejo Mario , Arhin Francis , Dehbi Mohammed , Fadhil Ibtihal , Liu Jing , McKay Geoffrey , Srikumar Ramakrishnan , Bauda Pascale , Ha Nhuan , DuBow Michael , Gros Philippe , Pelletier Jerry , Moeck Greg
Published: September 2006

Bacteriophages have evolved specific mechanisms that redirect bacterial metabolic pathways to the bacteriophage reproduction cycle. In this study, we characterized the bactericidal mechanism of two polypeptides from bacteriophages Twort and G1 that target the DNA sliding clamp of Staphylococcus aureus. The DNA sliding clamp, which tethers DNA polymerase to its template and thereby confers processivity upon the enzyme, was found to be essential for the viability of S. aureus. Expression of polypeptides TwortORF168 and G1ORF240 in S. aureus selectively inhibited DNA replication which in turn resulted in cell death. Both polypeptides specifically inhibited the S. aureus DNA replicase that was reconstituted in vitro but not the corresponding replicase of Streptococcus pyogenes. We demonstrated that inhibition of DNA synthesis is multifaceted and occurs via binding the DNA sliding clamp: TwortORF168 and G1ORF240 bound tightly to the DNA sliding clamp and prevented both its loading onto DNA and its interaction with DNA polymerase C. These results elucidate the impact of bacteriophage polypeptide expression upon DNA replication in the growing cell.
A loss‐of‐function mutation in AtYSL1 reveals its role in iron and nicotianamine seed loading
Authors: Jean Marie Le , Schikora Adam , Mari Stéphane , Briat Jean‐François , Curie Catherine
Published: September 2006

The Arabidopsis Yellow Stripe 1‐Like (YSL) proteins have been identified by homology with the maize (Zea mays) Yellow Stripe 1 (YS1) transporter which is responsible for iron–phytosiderophore (PS) uptake by roots in response to iron shortage. Although dicotyledonous plants do not synthesize PS, they do synthesize the PS precursor nicotianamine, a strong metal chelator essential for maintenance of iron homeostasis and copper translocation. Furthermore, ZmYS1 and the rice (Oryza sativa) protein OsYSL2 have metal‐nicotianamine transport activities in heterologous expression systems. In this work, we have characterized the function of AtYSL1 in planta. Two insertional loss‐of‐function ysl1 mutants of Arabidopsis were found to exhibit increased nicotianamine accumulation in shoots. More importantly, seeds of both ysl1 knockouts contained less iron and nicotianamine than wild‐type seeds, even when produced by plants grown in the presence of an excess of iron. This phenotype could be reverted by expressing the wild‐type AtYSL1 gene in ysl1 plants. ysl1 seeds germinated slowly, but this defect was rescued by an iron supply. AtYSL1 was expressed in the xylem parenchyma of leaves, where it was upregulated in response to iron excess, as well as in pollen and in young silique parts. This pattern is consistent with long‐distance circulation of iron and nicotianamine and their delivery to the seed. Taken together, our work provides strong physiological evidence that iron and nicotianamine levels in seeds rely in part on AtYSL1 function.
Inactivation of a European strain of West Nile virus in single‐ donor platelet concentrate using the INTERCEPT blood system
Authors: Gallian P. , Vignoli C. , Dombey A. M. , Mayaudon V. , Lin L. , Galichet V. , Cantaloube J. F. , De Micco P.
Published: September 2006

Background and Objective  In order to prevent West Nile virus (WNV) contaminations by transfusion, the French National Blood Service decided to evaluate the INTERCEPT Blood System's efficiency on a European strain.

Materials and Methods  Culture supernatant of WNV was used to infect six platelets concentrates. Viral titre was determined by plaque reduction neutralization test before and after viral inactivation using the INTERCEPT Blood System.

Results  In all assays, the absence of plaque forming unit was observed after viral inactivation. The log reduction observed ranged between > 5·1 logs to > 5·2 logs.

Conclusion  INTERCEPT Blood System is a commercially viral inactivation method potentially useful in order to prevent WNV transmission by blood products in France during re‐emerging outbreaks.
Keratomykose durchCylindrocarpon lichenicola
Authors: Kaben Ursula , Beck Ria , Tintelnot Kathrin
Published: September 2006

Wir berichten über zwei immunkompetente Männer, die im Abstand von wenigen Monaten an einer Keratomykose erkrankten. Als Erreger wurdeCylindrocarpon lichenicola(C. Massal.) D. Hawksworth angezüchtet. Als Infektionsquelle wurde bei einem der PatientenClematis‐Pflanzen in Erwägung gezogen. Von den Pflanzen konnte der Pilz nicht isoliert werden. Ein Trauma war nicht erinnerlich. Beide Patienten hatten keinen Kontakt miteinander und wohnten räumlich weit auseinander. Ein Patient erhielt während 12 Wochen Voriconazol (lokal und systemisch), der andere wurde lokal 6 Wochen mit Amphotericin B erfolgreich behandelt.Cylindrocarpon lichenicolabesitzt keratinolytische Eigenschaften und wurde kürzlich auf der Grundlage molekulargenetischer Untersuchungen alsFusarium lichenicolareklassifiziert.
Snakebite nephropathy (Review Article)
Authors: SITPRIJA VISITH
Published: September 2006

SUMMARY:  There is a broad clinical spectrum of renal involvement in snakebite. Besides the local and systemic symptoms, clinical renal manifestations vary from mild proteinuria, haematuria, pigmenturia to acute renal failure. Bites by haemotoxic snakes and myotoxic snakes are the common causes of renal involvement especially acute renal failure. Therefore, renal failure is often associated with haemorrhagic diathesis, intravascular haemolysis and rhabdomyolysis. Renal pathological changes include mesangiolysis, glomerulonephritis, vasculitis, tubular necrosis, interstitial nephritis and cortical necrosis. Tubular necrosis is an important pathological counterpart of acute renal failure. Haemodynamic alterations induced by cytokines and vasoactive mediators leading to renal ischaemia are important in the pathogenesis of acute renal failure. Haemolysis, intravascular coagulation and rhabdomyolysis are important contributing factors. Direct nephrotoxicity can be induced by the venom through metalloproteases and phosphilipase A2. Immunologic mechanism plays a minor role in the pathogenesis of the renal lesion.
Aldosterone breakthrough during therapy with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers in proteinuric patients with immunoglobulin A nephropathy
Authors: HORITA YOSHIO , TAURA KOUICHI , TAGUCHI TAKASHI , FURUSU AKIRA , KOHNO SHIGERU
Published: September 2006

Background:  We are investigating whether aldosterone breakthrough negatively impacts on the antiproteinuric effects of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and/or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB).

Methods:  We examine the role of aldosterone breakthrough in 43 normotensive, proteinuric (0.7 ± 0.3 g/day) outpatients (aged 41.5 ± 10.9 years) with immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) accompanied by stable renal function (creatinine clearance >50 mL/min). The patients were treated with temocapril (1 mg; n = 14), losartan (12.5 mg; n = 16), or a combination therapy (n = 13) for 12 months. We prospectively evaluated blood pressure (BP), urinary protein excretion (UPE), biochemical parameters and the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system before and after 12 months of treatment.

Results:  Although the overall plasma aldosterone concentrations values did not change after any of the treatments administered for 12 months, they eventually increased in 23 (temocapril, seven patients; losartan, eight patients; combination, seven patients) of the 43 patients (53.4%; aldosterone breakthrough), and fell in the remainder (46.6%). Blood pressure and renal function did not differ among the three groups at 12 months. In contrast, UPE was significantly higher in patients with, than without aldosterone breakthrough during temocapril and losartan administration. However, combination therapy induced a more remarkable reduction in UPE regardless of aldosterone breakthrough.

Conclusions:  A combination of ACE inhibitors and ARB in normotensive patients with IgAN produces a more profound decrease in proteinuria than either monotherapy. This additive antiproteinuric effect is not dependent on aldosterone breakthrough. Additional larger, prospective, randomized studies will be needed for general acceptance of this strategy.
Can acidosis and hyperphosphataemia result in increased erythropoietin dosing in haemodialysis patients?
Authors: DISKIN CHARLES J , STOKES THOMAS J , DANSBY LINDA M , RADCLIFF LAUTREC , CARTER THOMAS B
Published: September 2006

Aim:  To evaluate whether factors such as acidosis and hyperphosphataemia that might cause an increased oxygen delivery to tissues could result in increased dosing requirements for intravenous erythropoietin (EPO) administration given to haemodialysis patients.

Methods:  The clinical records of the patients seen at the Hypertension, Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Clinic from December, 2004 through August, 2005 were reviewed to identify patients who had taken intravenous erythropoietin. Two‐tailed, Pearson’s correlation was performed to determine correlations between any of the parameters. Analysis of variance and stepwise regression for covariance were used to evaluate the relations of demographic and clinical characteristics and laboratory variables. Analysis of covariance and K means cluster analyses were also performed to examine linkage between variables. Kendall’s Tau correlation was used for correlations of non‐parametric data.

Results:  There was a significant direct or positive correlation at the 0.01 levels between dry weight, age, intact parathyroid hormone level (PTH), and serum phosphorus and EPO dose. There was an inverse or negative correlation at that level between the serum bicarbonate and urea reduction ratio (URR) with the EPO dose at the same level while there was a weaker correlation but direct correlation between the white blood count (WBC) and EPO dose. There was significant colinearity between serum phosphorus and PTH but serum phosphorus showed a more significant correlation with EPO overall. Stepwise regression analysis for covariance revealed that phosphorus remained significantly correlated with EPO resistance after the removal of the effect of PTH while PTH lost its significance after the effect of phosphorus was removed.

Conclusion:  Acidosis and hyperphosphataemia are associated with apparent increased erythropoietin dosing requirements. While this study did not evaluate the mechanism of such requirements and indeed many mechanisms might be possible, a rightward shift in the oxygen‐haemoglobin dissociation curve resulting in down‐regulation of erythropoietin receptors is considered consistent with the data and present knowledge.
RSI in pediatric anesthesia – is it used by nonpediatric anesthetists? A survey from south‐west England
Authors: STEDEFORD JUDITH , STODDART PETER
Published: September 2006

Background:  Rapid sequence induction (RSI) is the ‘gold standard’ technique for preventing aspiration of gastric contents during induction of anesthesia in unfasted patients. We conducted a survey to discover whether the conduct of RSI in children varies amongst anesthetists and if practice alters in relation to the time since training or degree of ongoing experience.

Methods:  Six hundred and fifteen questionnaires were sent to anesthetists in the south‐west of England.

Results:  The response rate was 61%. Preoxygenation was utilized by 83% of anesthetists for infants whereas 94% preoxygenated schoolchildren, P < 0.001. Only 59% of respondents used cricoid pressure in infants, compared with 96% in schoolchildren, P < 0.001. Propofol was the induction agent of choice for all anesthetists, although thiopentone was used more in infants (35%) than schoolchildren (9%), P < 0.001. Suxamethonium was widely used in all children. All anesthetists intubated patients for pyloromyotomy, 50% using cricoid pressure. RSI was performed by 86% of anesthetists for appendicectomy, with consultants most likely to deviate from a standard RSI. Sixty percent of anesthetists intubated for manipulation of forearm, 72% performing an RSI, 53% intubated for scrotal exploration, but only 42% performed an RSI.

Conclusions:  Classical RSI is used for children by most anesthetists in south‐west England. RSI is modified for infants especially by more recently trained consultants. Suxamethonium is used less by consultant anesthetists. Whilst RSI is performed for appendicectomy there is a large variation in techniques for anesthetizing children for MUA and scrotal exploration which is independent of the grade of anesthetist.
Endosymbiosis in statu nascendi: close phylogenetic relationship between obligately endosymbiotic and obligately free‐living Polynucleobacter strains (Betaproteobacteria)
Authors: Vannini Claudia , Pöckl Matthias , Petroni Giulio , Wu Qinglong L. , Lang Elke , Stackebrandt Erko , Schrallhammer Martina , Richardson Paul M. , Hahn Martin W.
Published: September 2006

Bacterial strains affiliated to the phylogenetically shallow subcluster C (PnecC) of the Polynucleobacter cluster, which is characterized by a minimal 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of approximately 98.5%, have been reported to occur as obligate endosymbionts of ciliates (Euplotes spp.), as well as to occur as free‐living cells in the pelagic zone of freshwater habitats. We investigated if these two groups of closely related bacteria represent strains fundamentally differing in lifestyle, or if they simply represent different stages of a facultative endosymbiotic lifestyle. The phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene and 16S‐23S ITS sequences of five endosymbiont strains from two different Euplotes species and 40 pure culture strains demonstrated host‐species‐specific clustering of the endosymbiont sequences within the PnecC subcluster. The sequences of the endosymbionts showed characteristics indicating an obligate endosymbiotic lifestyle. Cultivation experiments revealed fundamental differences in physiological adaptations, and determination of the genome sizes indicated a slight size reduction in endosymbiotic strains. We conclude that the two groups of PnecC bacteria represent obligately free‐living and obligately endosymbiotic strains, respectively, and do not represent different stages of the same complex life cycle. These closely related strains occupy completely separated ecological niches. To our best knowledge, this is the closest phylogenetic relationship between obligate endosymbionts and obligately free‐living bacteria ever revealed.
Rapid detection and enumeration of trh‐carrying Vibrio parahaemolyticus with the alkaline phosphatase‐labelled oligonucleotide probe
Authors: Raghunath Pendru , Pradeep Balakrishnan , Karunasagar Indrani , Karunasagar Iddya
Published: September 2006

An alkaline phosphatase (AP)‐labelled oligonucleotide probe was developed to detect and enumerate trh+Vibrio parahaemolyticus in seafood. The probe was evaluated using 40 isolates of V. parahaemolyticus, 45 isolates of other vibrios and 55 non‐vibrio isolates. The probe reacted specifically with V. parahaemolyticus possessing either the trh1 or trh2 variant of the trh gene and was found to be 100% specific for trh+V. parahaemolyticus. Using the trh probe, V. parahaemolyticus carrying trh gene was targeted in 34 seafood samples by direct plating and colony hybridization procedure. The trh+V. parahaemolyticus could be detected in five of 34 (14.7%) samples and the levels ranged from 5.0 × 102 to 3.4 × 103 cfu g−1. Colonies of trh+V.parahaemolyticus were isolated from the five positive samples. Forty seafood samples were analysed for trh+V. parahaemolyticus by colony hybridization following enrichment in alkaline peptone water. 16 samples (40%) were positive for trh gene and trh+V. parahaemolyticus was isolated from 15 samples (37.5%). To assess the sensitivity of the trh probe, seafood homogenates spiked with known concentrations of trh‐positive V. parahaemolyticus were plated and hybridized. Counts obtained using the probe were similar to those of inocula. The results suggest that the AP‐labelled trh probe is useful for the detection and enumeration of trh+V. parahaemolyticus in seafood.
Synchronization of cell death in a dinoflagellate population is mediated by an excreted thiol protease
Authors: Vardi Assaf , Eisenstadt Doron , Murik Omer , Berman‐Frank Ilana , Zohary Tamar , Levine Alex , Kaplan Aaron
Published: September 2006

Regulated programmed cell death (PCD) processes have been documented in several phytoplankton species and are hypothesized to play a role in population dynamics. However, the mechanisms leading to the coordinated collapse of phytoplankton blooms are poorly understood. We showed that the collapse of the annual bloom of Peridinium gatunense, an abundant dinoflagellate in Lake Kinneret, Israel, is initiated by CO2 limitation followed by oxidative stress that triggers a PCD‐like cascade.

We provide evidences that a protease excreted by senescing P. gatunense cells sensitizes younger cells to oxidative stress and may consequently trigger synchronized cell death of the population. Ageing of the P. gatunense cultures was characterized by a remarkable rise in DNA fragmentation and enhanced sensitivity to H2O2. Exposure of logarithmic phase (young) cultures to conditioning media from stationary phase (old) cells sensitized them to H2O2 and led to premature massive cell death. We detected the induction of specific extracellular protease activity, leupeptin‐sensitive, in ageing cultures and in lake waters during the succession of the P. gatunense bloom. Partial purification of the conditioned media revealed that this protease activity is responsible for the higher susceptibility of young cells to oxidative stress. Inhibition of the protease activity lowered the sensitivity to oxidative stress, whereas application of papain to logarithmic phase P. gatunense cultures mimicked the effect of the spent media and enhanced cell death. We propose a novel mechanistic framework by which a population of unicellular phytoplankton orchestrates a coordinated response to stress, thereby determine the fate of its individuals.
Vibrio anguillarum colonization of rainbow trout integument requires a DNA locus involved in exopolysaccharide transport and biosynthesis
Authors: Croxatto Antony , Lauritz Johan , Chen Chang , Milton Debra L.
Published: September 2006

Vibrio anguillarum, part of the normal flora of the aquatic milieu, causes a fatal haemorrhagic septicaemia in marine fish. In this study, a rainbow trout model was used to characterize the colonization of fish skin by V. anguillarum. Within 5 h after infection, the bacterium penetrated the skin mucosal layer, attached to the scales within 12 h, and formed a biofilm by 24–48 h. Two divergently transcribed putative operons, orf1‐wbfD‐wbfC‐wbfB and wza‐wzb‐wzc, were shown to play a role in skin colonization and virulence. The first operon encodes proteins of unknown function. The wza‐wzb‐wzc genes encode a secretin, tyrosine kinase and tyrosine phosphatase, respectively, which are similar to proteins in polysaccharide transport complexes. Compared with the wild type, polar mutations in wza, orf1 and wbfD caused a decrease in exopolysaccharide biosynthesis but not lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis. The wza and orf1 mutants did not attach to fish scales; whereas, the wbfD mutant had a wild‐type phenotype. Moreover, the wza and orf1 mutants had decreased exoprotease activity, in particular the extracellular metalloprotease EmpA, as well as mucinase activity suggesting that these mutations also affect exoenzyme secretion. Thus, the exopolysaccharide transport system in V. anguillarum is required for attachment to fish skin, possibly preventing mechanical removal of bacteria via natural sloughing of mucus.
DETECTING INFLUENTIAL OBSERVATIONS IN SLICED INVERSE REGRESSION ANALYSIS
Authors: Prendergast Luke A.
Published: September 2006

The detection of influential observations on the estimation of the dimension reduction subspace returned by Sliced Inverse Regression (SIR) is considered. Although there are many measures to detect influential observations in related methods such as multiple linear regression, there has been little development in this area with respect to dimension reduction. One particular influence measure for a version of SIR is examined and it is shown, via simulation and example, how this may be used to detect influential observations in practice.
AN EXCLUSIVE REGRESSORS BINARY MIXTURE MODEL WITH AN APPLICATION TO LABOUR SUPPLY
Authors: Lu Zeng‐Hua , Brown Bruce M.
Published: September 2006

This paper suggests a new type of mixture regression model, in which each mixture component is explained by its own regressors. Thus, the dependent variable can be driven by one of several unobservable explanatory mechanisms, each of which has its own distinct variables. An extension of the simulated annealing algorithm is introduced to fit this general mixture model. The paper also suggests a new technique for estimating the covariance matrix of estimators in a mixture model. Finally, empirical studies of a labour supply example show that our proposed model can perform much better than conventional logistic or mixture models.
AN ADAPTIVE TRIMMED LIKELIHOOD ALGORITHM FOR IDENTIFICATION OF MULTIVARIATE OUTLIERS
Authors: Clarke Brenton R. , Schubert Daniel D.
Published: September 2006

This article describes an algorithm for the identification of outliers in multivariate data based on the asymptotic theory for location estimation as described typically for the trimmed likelihood estimator and in particular for the minimum covariance determinant estimator. The strategy is to choose a subset of the data which minimizes an appropriate measure of the asymptotic variance of the multivariate location estimator. Observations not belonging to this subset are considered potential outliers which should be trimmed. For α less than about 0.5, the correct trimming proportion is taken to be thatα >  0for which the minimum of any minima of this measure of the asymptotic variance occurs. If no minima occur for anα > 0then the data set will be considered outlier free.
A Note on Non‐Negative Arma Processes
Authors: Tsai Henghsiu , Chan K. S.
Published: September 2006

Abstract.  Recently, there has been much research on developing models suitable for analysing the volatility of a discrete‐time process. Since the volatility process, like many others, is necessarily non‐negative, there is a need to construct models for stationary processes which are non‐negative with probability one. Such models can be obtained by driving autoregressive moving average (ARMA) processes with non‐negative kernel by non‐negative white noise. This raises the problem of finding simple conditions under which an ARMA process with given coefficients has a non‐negative kernel. In this article, we derive a necessary and sufficient condition. This condition is in terms of the generating function of the ARMA kernel which has a simple form. Moreover, we derive some readily verifiable necessary and sufficient conditions for some ARMA processes to be non‐negative almost surely.
Langerhans cells in benign, premalignant and malignant skin lesions of renal transplant recipients and the effect of retinoid therapy
Authors: Gibson G.E. , O'Grady A. , Kay E.W. , Leader M. , Murphy G.M.
Published: September 2006

Background and design

Langerhans cells (LC) are a unique population of antigen‐presenting cells in the epidermis which may play a role in the defense mechanisms against skin tumors. Renal transplant recipients (RTRs) have a significantly increased incidence of premalignant and malignant skin lesions. Langerhans cells, which are important for local immune surveillance, may be depleted or downregulated in skin neoplasms of RTRs, facilitating their growth. We investigated the Langerhans cell densities in 29 squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), five basal cell carcinomas (BCCs), four Bowen's disease, eight dysplastic lesions (actinic keratoses), and three viral warts from 15 RTRs and compared these to the Langerhans cell densities in normal control skin. Eleven RTRs were receiving low‐dose etretinate as chemoprophylaxis for recurrent skin cancer and the effect of low‐dose retinoid therapy on Langerhans cell densities in SCCs from these patients was also assessed. Langerhans cells in frozen tissue sections were stained with the anti‐human Leu‐6 monoclonal antibody.

Results

There was no significant difference in LC numbers between normal skin from RTRs and normal skin from non‐immunosuppressed individuals. There was a statistically significant reduction in LC/mm2 and LC/1000 K (keratinocytes) for SCC, BCC, dysplastic lesions and viral warts compared with normal skin (P < 0.001, P < 0.01, P < 0.001, P < 0.05, respectively). There was a trend for an increase in Langerhans cell density in SCCs which developed during etretinate therapy compared with pre‐etretinate but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

In this study of RTRs, a significant reduction in Langerhans cell densities was observed in SCCs, BCCs and dysplastic lesions compared with normal skin. A reduction in Langerhans cell density in viral warts from RTRs was also observed. A working hypothesis may include a multifactorial etiology for this reduction in Langerhans cell densities. It is possible that human papilloma virus (HPV) infection, by reducing intraepidermal Langerhans cell density, may decrease local immune surveillance and facilitate the development of skin cancers. Ultraviolet radiation and immune suppression may also play a role. The marked depletion of Langerhans cells in skin cancers, precursor lesions and viral warts suggests a central role for Langerhans cells in skin cancer promotion in RTRs.
Lichen striatus‐like leukoderma
Authors: Wu Tiefeng
Published: September 2006

A particular pigmentary disorder develops on the skin of Chinese children. The lesions are composed of whitish macules and patches arranged in linear bands on the extremities unilaterally. Histologically these lesions are hypopigmented chronic dermatitis. Although the lesions are arranged in a lichen striatus pattern, they differ clinically from lichen striatus by the absence of papules and plaques. These cases may represent a new entity. The differential diagnosis includes lichen striatus, vitiligo, piebaldism, nevus depigmentosus, and hypomelanosis of Ito. The differences between the disorder presented here and those of different diagnosis are discussed.
Primary cutaneous cryptococcosis in an immune competent patient
Authors: Handa Sanjeev , Nagaraja  , Chakraborty Arunaloke , Kumar Bhushan
Published: September 2006

A 50‐year‐old female developed a swelling in the epigastrium which later ruptured to form a sinus. A diagnosis of primary cutaneous cryptococcosis was made with the help of histopathology and microbiological studies. Treatment with amphotericin‐B and 5‐flucytosine gave a good therapeutic response and the sinus healed within 2 months.
Disseminated histoplasmosis presenting with cutaneous lesions in a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
Authors: Angius Anna Grazia , Viviani Maria Anna , Muratori Simona , Cusini Marco , Brignolo Livia , Alessi Elvio
Published: September 2006

Objective

Presentation of a case of disseminated histoplasmosis, observed in a non‐endemic area, in which cutaneous lesions and fever were the dominant clinical signs of the infection.

Case

A 54‐year‐old homosexual man with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) related Kaposi's sarcoma presented with cutaneous lesions and fever due to disseminated histoplasmosis. The patient was successfully treated with itraconazole 200 mg/day. He died after 8 months from AIDS dementia complex: disseminated histoplasmosis relapse was not observed.

Conclusion

The case shows that infection with Histoplasma capsulatum must be considered by dermatologists in HIV/AIDS patients, even in non‐endemic areas.
Neuropeptides: role in inflammatory skin diseases
Authors: Luger T.A. , Lotti T.
Published: September 2006

The cutaneous nervous system recently has been demonstrated to interact with multiple target cells in the skin and to mediate actions important in inflammatory conditions. Neuropeptides released by cutaneous neurons such as substance P (SP), vasointenstinal peptide (VIP), calcitonine gene regulated peptide (CGRP), proopiomelancortin (POMC) peptides and others modulate the function of immunocompetent and inflammatory cells as well as epithelial and endothelial cells. They have been found to function as mediators of cell proliferation, cytokine and growth factor production as well as adhesion molecule and cell surface receptor expression. In addition many cells including keratinocytes, fibroblasts, endothelial cells and inflammatory cells have been shown to release several neuropeptides and they express their corresponding receptors. These findings indicate that neuropeptides participate in the complex network of mediators that regulate cutaneous inflammation, hyperproliferation and wound healing.
American cutaneous leishmaniasis due to Leishmania (Viannia) guyanensis as an initial clinical presentation of human immunodeficiency virus infection
Authors: de Souza e Souza Iliner , Naiff Roberto Daibes , Guimarães Túlio César , Naiff Marcicleide de Farias , Cupolillo Elisa , Rodrigues Wagner de Andrade , Schettini Antônio Pedro Mendes
Published: September 2006

The authors present the first report of Leishmania (Viannia) guyanensis (L.(V.) guyanenesis) associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in a Brazilian heterosexual man. It is also the first case of HIV infection associated with American cutaneous leishmaniasis in Brazilian Western Amazonia. The patient had cutaneous and mucous lesions with a negative Montenegro skin test. Histopathology showed large numbers of amastigotes, even in a lesion which had clinically healed. L.(V.)guyanenesis was typed by an immunoenzymatic technique. Various therapies were attempted, but the patient relapsed after each episode of treatment.
American cutaneous leishmaniasis associated with HIV infection: report of four cases
Authors: Mattos M. , Caiza A. , Fernandes O. , Gonçalves A.J.S. , Pirmez C. , Souza C.S.F. , Oliveira‐Neto M.P.
Published: September 2006

Objective

A report of four cases of American cutaneous leishmaniasis associated with HIV infection is presented.

Background

The association of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis and HIV infection is rare. Only 15 cases have been reported in the literature thus far.

Subjects

Four new cases are described and the differences between the clinical presentation in immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients are emphasized.

Conclusions

Multiple cutaneous lesions plus mucosal involvement characterize the clinical presentation of American cutaneous leishmaniasis in association with HIV infection in the majority of the cases. A serological investigation for HIV infection is recommended for patients presenting with this type of clinical picture, especially if the patient is a young male.
Prevalence of bands other than 160 and 130 kDa in pemphigus sera (a multicenter immunoblotting study)
Authors: Cozzani E. , Parodi A. , Reborn A.
Published: September 2006

Patients with pemphigus may produce antibodies against molecules other than the classical transmembranal ones. Recently, for example antibodies to 230 kDa antigens have been found in association with antibodies to intercellular substance. To better understand their prevalence, clinical correlates and prognostic significance of bands other than 130 and 160 kDa, we studied 67 pemphigus sera. About one‐fourth of patients revealed multiple heterogeneous bands and 13% the 230 kDa band. When challenged with the recombinant protein rBP55, the carbossiterminal portion of bullous pemphigoid major antigen, all 230 kDa‐positive‐sera proved negative. Caution is to be recommended in interpreting pemphigus sera with a band migrating at the 230 kDa level.
Obsessive‐compulsive disorders in dermatology
Authors: Monti M. , Sambvani N. , Sacrini F.
Published: September 2006

Background

Until the 1980s, obsessive‐compulsive disorders (OCD) were considered rare and almost impossible to treat, but it is now recognized that they are frequently encountered and can respond to treatment. Many OCD involve the skin and are therefore observed by dermatologists: we call them dermo‐OCD (DOCD). However, despite this, there are few reports in the dermatological literature and the majority are by American authors.

Objective

The aim of this paper is to offer a critical rediscussion of the diagnostic picture of this pathology on the basis of a review of the literature and the clinical observations of the authors. The main difficulties that dermatologists may encounter are described and some therapeutic guidelines are given.

Conclusions

A large number of OCD are frequently observed by dermatologists, but not all of them are recognized as DOCD.
Imedeen® in the treatment of photoaged skin: an efficacy and safety trial over 12 months1
Authors: Kieffer Marianne Elholm , Efsen Jan
Published: September 2006

Background

UV‐exposure induces photoaging of the skin.

Objective

Testing the efficacy and safety of oral Imedeen® in photoaged skin.

Methods

Three month placebo‐controlled randomized study of 144 subjects and 9‐month‐uncontrolled continuation. Efficacy measurements included clinical evaluation, self‐evaluation, photograph evaluation, as well as ultrasound, transepidermal water loss and replica measurements.

Results

After 3 months, no significant effects were detected. One years treatment gave significant improvement compared with baseline in investigator's evaluation of fine lines and overall photoaging, in photograph evaluation of fine lines, overall photoaging, telangiectasia and hyperpigmentation, in self‐evaluation of skin condition, density measurements by ultrasound, trans‐epidermal water loss and skin smoothness from analysis of skin replica. No serious side‐effects related to treatment were reported.

Conclusion

Imedeen® appears effective and safe for treatment of photoaged skin.
The use of azathioprine in severe adult atopic eczema
Authors: Buckley D.A. , Baldwin P. , Rogers S.
Published: September 2006

Aim

To evaluate the use of azathioprine in the treatment of severe adult atopic eczema and review the relevant literature.

Background

Effective treatment of severe adult atopic eczema may necessitate the use of agents such as systemic steroids, PUVA or cyclosporin, which are associated with significant morbidity. Azathioprine is an effective alternative which can induce disease remission and may be less toxic.

Methods

Ten patients treated with azathioprine 0.7–2.5 mg/kg per day for a minimum period of 12 months were evaluated in a retrospective follow‐up study.

Results

Clearance or marked improvement was noted in eight patients; three of these later became refractory to the drug. Side‐effects were few and were well‐tolerated. One patient was found to have lymphoma 8 months after stopping treatment.

Conclusion

Azathioprine is an effective and cheaper alternative to cyclosporin in the treatment of severe adult atopic eczema. Its long‐term toxicity remains unclear.