bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intercellular communication in plants: evidence for two rapidly transmitted systemic signals generated in response to electromagnetic field stimulation in tomato
Authors: BEAUBOIS ÉLISABETH , GIRARD SEBASTIEN , LALLECHERE SEBASTIEN , DAVIES ERIC , PALADIAN FRANÇOISE , BONNET PIERRE , LEDOIGT GERARD , VIAN ALAIN
Published: May 2007

Exposing all of a wild‐type tomato plant to electromagnetic radiation evoked rapid and substantial accumulation of basic leucine‐zipper transcription factor (bZIP) mRNA in the terminal leaf (#4) with kinetics very similar to that seen in response to wounding, while in the abscisic acid (ABA) mutant (Sitiens), the response was more rapid, but transient. Submitting just the oldest leaf (#1) of a wild‐type plant to irradiation evoked bZIP mRNA accumulation both locally in the exposed leaf and systemically in the unexposed (distant) leaf #4, although systemic accumulation was delayed somewhat. Accumulation of Pin2 mRNA was less than bZIP in both the exposed and distant leaves in wild type, but there was no delay in the systemic response. In Sitiens, bZIP mRNA accumulation was far less than in wild type in both local and distant leaves, while Pin2 mRNA accumulation was stronger in the exposed leaf, but totally prevented in the systemic leaf. In the jasmonic acid (JA) mutant (JL‐5) and in wild‐type plants treated with the ABA biosynthesis inhibitor, naproxen, responses were similar to those in the ABA mutant, while treatment of the exposed leaf with calcium antagonists totally abolished both local and systemic increases in bZIP transcript accumulation.
Compatible solutes reduce ROS‐induced potassium efflux in Arabidopsis roots
Authors: CUIN TRACEY ANN , SHABALA SERGEY
Published: May 2007

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to be primarily responsible for the impairment of cellular function under numerous abiotic and biotic stress conditions. In this paper, using non‐invasive microelectrode ion flux measuring (MIFE) system, we show that the application of a hydroxyl radical (OH•)‐generating Cu2+/ascorbate (Cu/a) mixture to Arabidopsis roots results in a massive, dose‐dependent efflux of K+ from epidermal cells in the elongation zone. Pharmacological experiments suggest that both outward‐rectifying K+ channels and non‐selective cation channels (NSCCs) mediate such effluxes. Low (5 mM) concentrations of compatible solutes (glycine betaine, proline, mannitol, trehalose or myo‐inositol) significantly reduces OH•‐induced K+ efflux, similar to our previous reports for NaCl‐induced K+ efflux. Importantly, a significant reduction in K+ efflux was found using osmolytes with no reported free radical scavenging activity, as well as those for which a role in free radical scavenging has been demonstrated. This indicates that compatible solutes must play other (regulatory) roles, in addition to free radical scavenging, in mitigating the damaging effects of oxidative stress.
Homogalacturonan synthesis in Arabidopsis thaliana requires a Golgi‐localized protein with a putative methyltransferase domain
Authors: Mouille Grégory , Ralet Marie‐Christine , Cavelier Céline , Eland Cathlene , Effroy Delphine , Hématy Kian , McCartney Lesley , Truong Hoai Nam , Gaudon Virginie , Thibault Jean‐François , Marchant Alan , Höfte Herman
Published: May 2007

Pectins are a family of complex cell‐wall polysaccharides, the biosynthesis of which remains poorly understood. We identified dwarf mutants with reduced cell adhesion at a novel locus, QUASIMODO2 (QUA2). qua2‐1 showed a 50% reduction in homogalacturonan (HG) content compared with the wild type, without affecting other cell‐wall polysaccharides. The remaining HG in qua2‐1 showed an unaltered degree of methylesterification. Positional cloning and GFP fusions showed that QUA2, consistent with a role in HG synthesis, encodes a Golgi‐localized protein. In contrast to QUA1, another Golgi‐localized protein required for HG‐synthesis, QUA2 does not show sequence similarity to glycosyltransferases, but instead contains a putative methyltransferase (MT) domain. The Arabidopsis genome encodes 29 QUA2‐related proteins. Interestingly, the transcript profiles of QUA1 and QUA2 are correlated and other pairs of QUA1 and QUA2 homologues with correlated transcript profiles can be identified. Together, the results lead to the hypothesis that QUA2 is a pectin MT, and that polymerization and methylation of homogalacturonan are interdependent reactions.
Abnormal brain structure in adults with Van der Woude syndrome
Authors: Nopoulos P , Richman L , Andreasen NC , Murray JC , Schutte B
Published: May 2007

Van der Woude syndrome (VWS) is an autosomal dominant disorder manifested in cleft lip and/or palate and lip pits. Isolated clefts of the lip and/or palate (ICLP) have both genotype and phenotype overlap with VWS. Subjects with ICLP have abnormalities in brain structure and function. Given the similarities between VWS and ICLP, the current study was designed to evaluate the pattern of brain structure of adults with VWS. Fourteen adults with VWS were compared to age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls. Brain structure was evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging. All subjects with VWS had enlarged volumes of the anterior regions of the cerebrum. Men with VWS had reduced volumes of the posterior cerebrum. Anterior cerebrum volume was negatively correlated with intelligent quotient in the subjects with VWS indicating that the enlargement of this brain region was ‘pathologic.’ The pattern of brain structure in VWS is nearly identical to those seen in ICLP. In addition, men are affected more severely. Pathologic enlargement of the tissue and a gender effect with men affected more severely are common features of neurodevelopmental disorders supporting the notion that the brain structure of VWS and ICLP may be because of abnormal brain development.
Glucose metabolism and insulin secretion in a patient with ABCC8 mutation and Fanconi–Bickel syndrome caused by maternal isodisomy of chromosome 3
Authors: Hoffman TL , Blanco E , Lane A , Galvin‐Parton P , Gadi I , Santer R , DeLeón D , Stanley C , Wilson TA
Published: May 2007

Fanconi–Bickel syndrome (FBS) is a rare disorder of glucose transport caused by autosomal recessive mutations in GLUT2. Clinically, FBS results in growth failure, hepatomegaly, renal Fanconi syndrome, and abnormal glucose homeostasis. We report a 23 month old female with FBS characterized by more severe and refractory hypoglycemia than typically seen in this disorder. Although previous reports indicate that FBS patients have diminished insulin secretion, our patient showed evidence of hyperinsulinism (HI). Sequence analysis showed that the patient was homozygous for a known null mutation in GLUT2, confirming the clinical diagnosis of FBS. Parental genotyping showed that the mother was heterozygous for the GLUT2 mutation, while the father was wild type. Tandem repeat marker analysis showed that the patient inherited the GLUT2 mutation via maternal isodisomy of chromosome 3. Further molecular testing showed that the patient was heterozygous for a mutation in ABCC8, a known cause of congenital HI. We discuss the patient’s biochemical responses in light of the molecular findings.
A genome‐wide linkage scan for iron phenotype quantitative trait loci: the HEIRS Family Study
Authors: Acton RT , Snively BM , Barton JC , McLaren CE , Adams PC , Rich SS , Eckfeldt JH , Press RD , Sholinsky P , Leiendecker‐Foster C , McLaren GD , Speechley MR , Harris EL , Dawkins FW , Gordeuk VR ,   the Hemochromatosis and Iron Overload Screening Study Research Investigators
Published: May 2007

Iron overload phenotypes in persons with and without hemochromatosis are variable. To investigate this further, probands with hemochromatosis or evidence of elevated iron stores and their family members were recruited for a genome‐wide linkage scan to identify potential quantitative trait loci (QTL) that contribute to variation in transferrin saturation (TS), unsaturated iron‐binding capacity (UIBC), and serum ferritin (SF). Genotyping utilized 402 microsatellite markers with average spacing of 9 cM. A total of 943 individuals, 64% Caucasian, were evaluated from 174 families. After adjusting for age, gender, and race/ethnicity, there was evidence for linkage of UIBC to chromosome 4q logarithm of the odds (LOD) = 2.08, p = 0.001) and of UIBC (LOD = 9.52), TS (LOD = 4.78), and SF (LOD = 2.75) to the chromosome 6p region containing HFE (each p < 0.0001). After adjustments for HFE genotype and other covariates, there was evidence of linkage of SF to chromosome 16p (LOD = 2.63, p = 0.0007) and of UIBC to chromosome 5q (LOD = 2.12, p = 0.002) and to chromosome 17q (LOD = 2.19, p = 0.002). We conclude that these regions should be considered for fine mapping studies to identify QTL that contribute to variation in SF and UIBC.
Spectrum of mutations and variants/haplotypes of CFTR and genotype–phenotype correlation in idiopathic chronic pancreatitis and controls in Chinese by complete analysis
Authors: Chang Ming‐Chu , Chang Yu‐Ting , Wei Shu‐Chen , Tien Yu‐Wen , Liang Po‐Chin , Jan I‐Shiow , Su Yi‐Ning , Wong Jau‐Min
Published: May 2007

Mutations in cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene have been reported in patients with chronic pancreatitis. The authors examine whether the mutations and haplotypes of CFTR will increase the risk of developing idiopathic chronic pancreatitis (ICP) in Chinese and their genotype and phenotype correlations. Seventy‐eight patients with ICP and 200 geographically and ethnically matched controls in Taiwan were analyzed. The entire 27 coding and intronic regions of the CFTR gene were identified using heteroduplex analytical techniques and confirmed by sequencing analysis. The presence of 125G/C, 1001+10C>T, IVSTn(TG)m, 1540A>G, c2694T>G, and c4521G>A were determined by directing sequencing. Abnormal CFTR allele was found to be thrice as frequent in ICP patients as in controls (22/156 vs 19/400, p < 0.0001). T5 allele was associated with early onset of ICP. In six‐loci haplotype analysis, 13 common haplotypes were assembled in the 278 individuals tested. The 125G/1001+11C/TG12/470M/2694T/4521G haplotype was associated with risk of ICP (odds ratio 11.3; 95% confidence interval 2.3–54.6, p = 0.008) in Chinese. The mutation spectrum is different from other ethnic groups. A population‐specific panel of CFTR changes should be recommended for targeted populations including ICP in Chinese. It is important to design suitable screening programs for different populations.
Identification of three novel alleles of HLA‐DRB1 and HLA‐A in the Brazilian population†
Authors: Abdeen H. , McErlean C. , Moraes M. E. , Torres M. , Campiotto S. , Galvão S. , Gouvea C. , Middleton D.
Published: May 2007

Two human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DRB1 (HLA‐DRB1*1376 and ‐DRB1*1465) and one HLA‐A (HLA‐A*2471) novel alleles have been identified in individuals from the Brazilian Bone Marrow Donor Registry. DNA sequencing of exon 2 for HLA‐DRB1 alleles showed two and five nucleotide substitutions in ‐DRB1*1376 and ‐DRB1*1465, compared with closely related alleles, respectively. These substitutions result in a change of amino acid residues in HLA‐DRB1*1376 at position 74 (Arg → Glu) and in ‐DRB*1465 at positions 47 (Tyr → Phe), 57 (Asp → Ser) and 74 (Glu → Ala). On the other hand, sequence analysis of exons 2 and 3 for HLA‐A*2471 showed a single substitution, leading to a single amino acid change at position 151 (His → Arg). These three novel alleles may have originated from other HLA alleles by gene conversion. However, it is also possible that HLA‐A*2471 has evolved from one of the alleles of the HLA‐A*2402 group through a point mutation.
Sequence analysis of the novel allele HLA‐A*110106 in the Chinese population
Authors: Zhu F.‐M. , Chen N.‐Y. , Zhang W. , He J. , Yan L.‐X.
Published: May 2007

A novel HLA‐A*110106 allele was identified in the Chinese individual by polymerase chain reaction sequence‐based typing.
Haplotype‐specific amplification and nucleotide sequencing reveal the novel allele HLA‐B*080104
Authors: Eiz‐Vesper B. , Blasczyk R. , Horn P. A.
Published: May 2007

The novel allele human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐B*080104 differs from HLA‐B*080101 by a synonymous nucleotide exchange at position 231 in exon 2 (C→T).
Photosynthetic biomass and H2 production by green algae: from bioengineering to bioreactor scale‐up
Authors: Hankamer Ben , Lehr Florian , Rupprecht Jens , Mussgnug Jan H. , Posten Clemens , Kruse Olaf
Published: May 2007

The development of clean borderless fuels is of vital importance to human and environmental health and global prosperity. Currently, fuels make up approximately 67% of the global energy market (total market = 15 TW year−1) (Hoffert et al. 1998). In contrast, global electricity demand accounts for only 33% (Hoffert et al. 1998). Yet, despite the importance of fuels, almost all CO2 free energy production systems under development are designed to drive electricity generation (e.g. clean‐coal technology, nuclear, photovoltaic, wind, geothermal, wave and hydroelectric). In contrast, and indeed almost uniquely, biofuels also target the much larger fuel market and so in the future will play an increasingly important role in maintaining energy security (Lal 2005). Currently, the main biofuels that are at varying stages of development include bio‐ethanol, liquid carbohydrates [e.g. biodiesel or biomass to liquid (BTL) products], biomethane and bio‐H2. This review is focused on placing bio‐H2 production processes into the context of the current biofuels market and summarizing advances made both at the level of bioengineering and bioreactor design.
Increase in recently acquired syphilis infections in English, Welsh and Northern Irish blood donors
Authors: Brant L. J. , Bukasa A. , Davison K. L. , Newham J. , Barbara J. A.
Published: May 2007

Background and Objectives  Syphilis can be transmitted by blood. We describe syphilis infections detected in blood donors and investigate the epidemiology of syphilis in English, Welsh and Northern Irish blood donors.

Materials and Methods  This article analyses routine surveillance data regarding syphilis infections in blood donors from England, Wales and Northern Ireland between 1998 and 2004. Infections are classified as recently acquired or past syphilis and donor characteristics and trends examined.

Results  A total of 518 syphilis‐infected donors were identified; 40 had recently acquired infection and 407 had past syphilis (71 were unclassified). Thirteen times more recently acquired syphilis infections were identified among people who donated between 2002 and 2004 compared to 1998 to 2001. Young, white and regular donors were most likely to have recently acquired syphilis infections. Heterosexual sex was the main risk exposure identified overall; in contrast, the greatest proportion of recently acquired infections were in men who have sex with men.

Conclusion  The increase in recently acquired syphilis, although low, indicates that risky sexual behaviours are increasing in the blood donor population, with implications for the microbiological safety of blood. Continued vigilance is required by blood services as the risk of syphilis increases in the general population.
Inheritance and gene tagging of male fertility restoration of cytoplasmic‐nuclear male‐sterile line NJCMS1A in soybean
Authors: Yang S. P. , Duan M. P. , Meng Q. C. , Qiu J. , Fan J. M. , Zhao T. J. , Yu D. Y. , Gai J. Y.
Published: May 2007

The F1, F2 and F2:3 of the NJCMS1A × ‘Zhongdou 5’ cross were used to analyse the inheritance of the male fertility restoration of the cytoplasmic‐nuclear male‐sterile line NJCMS1A in soybean. The results of genetic analysis showed two pairs of dominant genes conferring the male fertility restoration of NJCMS1A, which further confirmed previous results. The F2 population from the NJCMS1A × ‘Zhongdou 5’ cross was used for tagging the restorer genes for NJCMS1A with 664 pairs of simple sequence repeat primers selected randomly from the genetic linkage map of soybean published by Cregan et al. (1999). Satt626 on linkage group M and Satt300 on linkage group A1 of the integrated linkage map by Song et al. (2004) were found to link to the two restorer genes of NJCMS1A. The maximum‐likelihood estimates of the genetic distance between the two markers, Satt626 and Satt300, and the two restorer genes of ‘Zhongdou 5’ were 9.75 and 11.18 cM, respectively.
Diagnostic accuracy of shoulder ultrasound performed by a single operator
Authors: Cullen DM , Breidahl WH , Janes GC
Published: May 2007

Both diagnostic ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used for investigation of the presence and severity of rotator cuff lesions. There is no consensus as to which is the more accurate and cost‐effective study. We sought to examine the sensitivity of ultrasound, when used by one experienced radiologist with modern equipment. We compared the ultrasound and surgical results obtained from 68 patients. Ultrasound showed a sensitivity of 89% and specificity of 100% (Positive Predictive Value 100%) for full‐thickness tears, and a sensitivity of 79% and specificity of 94% (Positive Predictive Value 87%) for partial‐thickness tears. We found that shoulder ultrasound, in the hands of an experienced radiologist with the use of modern high‐resolution equipment, is highly sensitive in differentiating complete tears and partial‐thickness tears. Our results are similar to the best published results for MRI and given that ultrasound is significantly cheaper and more available, ultrasound by an experienced radiologist should be considered as a primary diagnostic tool for imaging the rotator cuff.
SUBCELLULAR DISTRIBUTION OF DOPAMINE‐β‐HYDROXYLASE AND INHIBITORS IN THE HIPPOCAMPUS AND CAUDATE NUCLEUS IN SHEEP BRAIN
Authors: Lander J. , Austin L.
Published: May 2007

—The enzyme dopamine‐β‐hydroxylase (EC 1.14.17.1) which converts dopamine to noradrenaline was found to be present in substantial amounts in sheep brain hypothalamus and caudate nucleus and was located to the synaptic vesicle fractions in these two brain regions by subcellular fractionation. This dopamine‐β‐hydroxylase was associated with paniculate matter in these two brain regions since it was resistant to solubilization with butan‐1‐ol and 0.1% Triton X‐100. As highly significant levels of dopamine‐β‐hydroxylase were present in the caudate nucleus, factors other than a simple lack of this enzyme must operate to maintain the low levels of noradrenaline and high levels of dopamine in the caudate nucleus. Purified adrenal dopamine‐β‐hydroxylase was substantially inhibited by two factors prepared from sheep brain hypothalamus and caudate nucleus. These were found to be cupric ions and a sulphydryl inhibitor. High levels of the sulphydryl inhibitor of dopamine‐β‐hydroxylase were found in synaptosomal fractions from sheep brain hypothalamus and caudate nucleus and the levels were comparable in both regions. Upon subfractionation of a synaptosome‐containing fraction from the hypothalamus, the inhibitor was located predominantly in the soluble fraction, although there were significant levels in the synaptic vesicle fraction. Therefore, the sulphydryl inhibitor must be considered as a possible regulator of dopamine‐β‐hydroxylase activity.

Free cupric ion concentrations as low as 2·5 μM were found to inhibit purified adrenal dopamine‐β‐hydroxylase in vitro and the concentration of copper in the soluble tissue component of hypothalamus and caudate nucleus was well above this minimal copper concentration. The percentage content of soluble copper in the caudate nucleus was significantly higher than in the hypothalamus. The importance of the soluble to particulate‐bound ratio of copper in brain was shown in studies of the developing rat brain. A rapid increase in the level of copper in brain was found in the first 4 weeks but the level was constant by 2 months of age. The percentage of soluble copper, however, was maximal soon after birth and had declined to a constant figure by 2 months of age. A scheme for the regulation of dopamine‐β‐hydroxylase activity involving these factors is proposed.
Lack of association between NPHS2 gene polymorphisms and sporadic IgA nephropathy
Authors: MAO JIANHUA , DU LIZHONG , GU WEIZHONG , DAI YUWEN , LIU AIMIN , XIA YONGHUI , ZHANG YANG
Published: May 2007

Aim:  IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary form of glomerulonephritis worldwide. In the present study, the genetic structure of the NPHS2 gene was studied to verify if podocin plays a role in the pathogenesis of IgAN.

Methods:  Clinical characteristics and DNA samples were collected from 26 Chinese children with sporadic IgAN. A direct sequencing was performed after polymerase chain reaction amplification to all the eight exons of the NPHS2 gene.

Results:  Three synonymous variants as known polymorphisms (954T→C homozygous, 1038A→G heterozygous and homozygous) were found in 3, 4 and 1 patients, respectively. There was no significant difference in the genotypic and allelic frequencies of 954T > C and 1038A > G polymorphisms between the patients and normal controls.

Conclusion:  No significant difference in the genotypic and allelic frequencies of the identified 954T > C and 1038A > G polymorphisms between the patients and normal controls was found.
Vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms are associated with increased risk and progression of renal cell carcinoma in a Japanese population
Authors: Obara Wataru , Suzuki Yasushi , Kato Karen , Tanji Susumu , Konda Ryuichiro , Fujioka Tomoaki
Published: May 2007

Aim:  Biological and epidemiologic data suggest that 1 alpha, 25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) levels may influence development of renal cell carcinoma. The vitamin D receptor (VDR) is a crucial mediator for the cellular effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 and additionally interacts with other cell signaling pathways that influence cancer progression. VDR gene polymorphisms may play an important role in risk of incidence for various malignant tumors. This study investigated whether VDR gene polymorphisms were associated with increased risk and prognosis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in a Japanese population.

Methods:  To analyze risk of RCC depending on VDR polymorphism, a case–control association study was performed. The VDR gene polymorphisms at three locations, BsmI, ApaI and TaqI, were genotyped in 135 RCC patients and 150 controls in a Japanese population. Logistic regression models were used to assess the genetic effects on prognosis.

Results:  Significant differences in the ApaI genotype were observed between RCC patients and controls (χ2 = 6.90, P = 0.032). No statistical significant difference was found in the BsmI and TaqI polymorphisms. The frequency of the AA genotype in the ApaI polymorphism was significantly higher in the RCC patients than in the controls (odds ratio, 2.59; 95% confidence intervals, 1.21–5.55; P = 0.012). Multivariate regression analysis showed that the AA genotype was an independent prognostic factor for cause‐specific survival (relative risk 3.3; P = 0.038).

Conclusion:  The AA genotype at the ApaI site of the VDR gene may be a risk of incidence and poor prognosis factor for RCC in the Japanese population. Additional studies with a large sample size and investigation of the functional significance of the ApaI polymorphism in RCC cells are warranted.
Prostate‐specific antigen assay using whole blood samples spotted on filter paper and its application to mass screening for prostate cancer
Authors: Nanri Masaharu , Nanri Kazushige , Fujiyama Chisato , Tokuda Yuji , Nakamura Kiyoko , Uozumi Jiro
Published: May 2007

Aim:  The disc assay system for prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) is a novel technique using a small amount of whole blood on filter paper. The accuracy of this assay system and its feasibility for use in prostate cancer mass screening were evaluated.

Methods:  In the first arm of the study, to evaluate the accuracy of the disc assay system, PSA values were determined by both a disc assay system and a standard serum assay system using the same blood samples obtained from 420 outpatients. In the second arm of the study, the feasibility and reliability of the disc assay system were examined in prostate cancer mass screening. A total of 2475 men were screened by the disc assay (disc group) and 3348 men were screened by the standard serum assay (serum group) in the first step of mass screening. In the second step of the screening in the disc group, 101 men underwent PSA tests by a standard serum assay, then the first PSA values determined by the disc assay were compared with the second PSA values determined by the standard serum assay. In the second step of the screening in the serum group, 94 men underwent additional PSA tests by a serum assay, and then the first PSA values were compared with the second PSA values. Two men in each group were excluded from analysis because the true PSA values of the first step were not available (more than 50 ng/mL).

Results:  The PSA values determined by the disc assay closely correlated with those obtained by the standard assay (r = 0.987) in 295 outpatients with PSA levels between 1.0 and 20 ng/mL. In the PSA mass screening, the PSA values determined in the first step closely correlated with those in the second step both in the disc group (r = 0.916) and in the serum group (r = 0.845). A significant dissociation of the two PSA values was observed in seven of 99 men in the disc group and in three of 92 men in the serum group. However, there was no statistical significance in the incidence of dissociation in the two PSA values between the disc group and the serum group.

Conclusions:  The disc assay system seems to be a sensitive and accurate assay system. The feasibility and reliability of the disc assay system were well demonstrated in the field during prostate cancer mass screening.
Controls of primary productivity and nutrient cycling in a temperate grassland with year‐round production
Authors: SEMMARTIN MARÍA , OYARZABAL MARIANO , LORETI JUAN , OESTERHELD MARTÍN
Published: May 2007

Abstract Net primary production (NPP) and nutrient dynamics of grasslands are regulated by different biotic and abiotic factors, which may differentially affect functional plant groups. Most studies have dealt with grasslands that have extremely low or zero production over a significant period of the year. Here we explore the relative importance of a few environmental factors as controls of aerial and below‐ground plant biomass production and nutrient dynamics in a grassland that is active throughout the year. We investigate their effect on the response of three main plant functional groups (warm‐ and cool‐season graminoids and forbs). We conducted a factorial experiment in a continuously grazed site in the Flooding Pampa grassland (Argentina). Factors were seasons (summer, autumn, winter and spring), and environmental agents (mowing, shade, addition of phosphorus [P] and nitrogen [N]). N addition had the largest and most extended impact: it tripled aerial NPP in spring and summer but had no effect on below‐ground biomass. This positive effect was accompanied by higher N acquisition and higher soil N availability. Mowing increased aerial NPP in winter, increased root biomass in the first 10 cm during autumn and winter and promoted N and P uptake by plants. Shading did not affect aerial NPP, but stimulated N and P uptake by plants. P addition had no effect on aerial NPP, but increased shallow root biomass and its N content in spring, and tripled P accumulation in plant biomass. The three plant functional groups differentially accounted for these ecosystem‐level responses. Graminoids explained the greater biomass production of N‐fertilized plots and mowing tended to promote forbs. These results suggest that the environmental controls of aerial NPP in this grassland vary among seasons, differentially impact the major floristic groups, and affect the energy and nutrient transfer to herbivores.
Incubation temperatures and sex ratios in Australian brush‐turkey (Alectura lathami) mounds
Authors: GÖTH ANN
Published: May 2007

Abstract  Megapodes are exceptional among birds because they use external heat sources for incubating their eggs. In Australian brush‐turkeys (Alectura lathami), this source is the heat produced by microbial decomposition in mounds of leaf litter. A recent laboratory study showed that artificial incubation of eggs at different temperatures affects the sex ratio of brush‐turkey hatchlings. Here, this phenomenon is confirmed for eggs incubated in natural incubation mounds. Eggs from which females hatched were found at significantly higher incubation temperatures in the mounds (mean 33.7°C) than those from which males hatched (mean 32.9°C). Also, sex ratios of chicks from individual mounds were significantly correlated with mean incubation temperatures in those mounds. Furthermore, incubation temperatures differed significantly between incubation mounds during the same month of the year. Within some mounds, incubation temperatures differed up to 9°C between eggs, in others this difference was only up to 1°C. These latter results show that males differ in their ability to maintain stable incubation temperatures. While the effect of incubation temperatures on sex ratio is a novel discovery for any bird, it was previously suggested that incubation temperatures in megapodes also affect embryo mortality and chick survival. These combined effects of incubation temperature, and the limited ability of males to provide optimal temperatures, seem to provide answers to the question why so few birds have adopted this unusual mode of reproduction – a question asked by many behavioural ecologists and evolutionary biologists.
The relationship between rainfall, water source and growth for an endangered tree
Authors: FEBRUARY EDMUND C. , WEST ADAM G. , NEWTON ROSEMARY J.
Published: May 2007

Abstract  It is now reasonably well understood that the human impact on the environment since industrialization has led to significant changes in climate. Here we attempt to develop a predictive understanding of the effects that future changes in climate may have on vegetation structure and species diversity. We do this through a determination of the relationship between radial growth and water source for Widdringtonia cedarbergensis Marsh. Our results show that there was no significant relationship between monthly radial growth, as determined using dendrometer bands, and rainfall. There is, however, a significant relationship between the δ18O composition of the water extracted from the trees and the rain δ18O values. We speculate that W. cedarbergensis exploits water derived from rain that flows off the rocky substrate of the study area into sumps between the bedding planes of the rocks on which they grow. This runoff occurs rapidly during rain events resulting in δ18O values for the trees sourcing this water not to be significantly different from that of the rain. Rainfall therefore has to be sufficient to refill these sumps on which the trees are dependent. The dendrometer bands reflect a slow but steady growth of the trees at the study site. While this growth is not dependent on rainfall, it is dependent on reliable access to available water. If climate change predictions for the region are realized and rainfall is reduced then this species will be affected. W. cedarbergensis is endemic to only a very small area within the Cedarberg Mountains in South Africa and is also one of the few trees growing in the fynbos. The extinction of this species in the wild will fundamentally affect both the vegetation structure and species composition of the region.
Management of inflammatory bowel disease in adults
Authors: KATZ Jeffry A
Published: May 2007

Optimal care of the inflammatory bowel diseases, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, requires a broad understanding of disease pathophysiology and therapeutic alternatives. The goals of therapy are accurate diagnosis and timely treatment to both induce and maintain a clinical remission and improve patient quality of life. Most patients can be adequately treated using a combination or aminosalicylates, antibiotics, and corticosteroids, though many patients with Crohn's disease will require immunomodulators, such as azathioprine or 6‐mercaptopurine. The development of novel biologic therapies, particularly infliximab, have dramatically improved our ability to medically manage more severe Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis patients. This review will focus on the medical management of inflammatory bowel disease in adults.
RISE OF COLORECTAL CANCER IN SINGAPORE: AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL REVIEW
Authors: Wong Mark T. C. , Eu Kong Weng
Published: May 2007

Background:  Over the past three decades, Singapore has seen a dramatic increase in the incidence of colorectal cancer and this is now the most frequent cancer when both genders are combined.

Methods:  In light of this alarming trend, a review of colorectal cancer in Singapore was conducted, using data from the Singapore Cancer Registry from 1968 to 2002. Our research has shown that among Southeast Asian countries, Singapore has the highest age‐standardized incidence rates, 35.1% in men and 29.9% in women, more than twice that of the next country; these rates have been increasing at a startling average annual rate of approximately 2.6 and 2.35%, for men and women, respectively.

Results:  Between 1998 and 2002, deaths from colorectal cancer constituted 19% of all cancer mortalities in men and 14% in women, accounting for the second highest cause of cancer mortality in both genders. In the same period, more than three quarters (75.6%) of colorectal cancers occurred in the distal colon (including splenic flexure, descending, sigmoid colon and rectum), with the predominant histological subtype being adenocarcinoma (approximately 90%). The age‐specific rates for colorectal cancer begin to increase sharply in the 40‐ to 45‐year age group. It remains the most common primary site of cancer in men aged between 35 and 64 years but lies a distant second after breast cancer in women. In individuals aged 65 years and above, colorectal cancer remains prominent in both genders.

Conclusion:  Despite the dramatic increase in incidence of colorectal cancer in Singapore, there has also been significant progress in survival of colorectal cancer patients with localized disease (limited to large bowel), with 5‐year, age‐standardized relative survival improving from 36 to 66% in men and 32 to 71% in women; in rectal cancer, improvements from 25 to 66% in men and 23 to 66% in women were also observed. Similar improvements were noted in patients with regional disease (lymph node involvement) but not with distant metastases. This has paralleled the dramatic national development in socioeconomic and health‐care services.
CYSTIC CHANGE IN THYROID CANCER
Authors: Lin Jen‐Der , Hsuen Chuen , Chen Jeng‐Yeou , Liou Miaw‐Jene , Chao Tzu‐Chieh
Published: May 2007

Background:  To determine the incidence of cystic change of thyroid cancer detected by ultrasonography and to compare the diagnostic accuracy of fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) postultrasonography in solid and cystic thyroid nodules.

Methods:  This retrospective study collected data for 6219 patients with thyroid nodules. Mean patient age was 49.7 ± 13.6 years. Of these 6219 patients, 1983 had cystic changes of thyroid nodules and 4236 had solid masses as detected by ultrasonography. Following FNAC, 506 of the patients with solid masses (11.9%) underwent surgical treatment, compared with 143 of those with cystic change of thyroid masses (7.2%).

Results:  Of the 649 nodules treated surgically in the solid and cystic change groups, 29.8% (151/506) and 9.1% (13/143) were malignant, respectively. Overall, after surgical treatment, 0.65% of cystic changes to thyroid lesions were diagnosed as thyroid cancer. Diagnostic accuracy of FNAC in cystic changes of the thyroid masses after ultrasonographic examination resembled that in solid thyroid nodules.

Conclusions:  Cystic changes of thyroid masses are common. Positive predictive value in diagnosing papillary carcinoma of thyroid masses with cystic changes is high. Notably, preoperative accurate diagnosis is difficult.
EXTRAVISCERAL PRIMARY HYDATID CYST OF THE RETROPERITONEUM
Authors: Aydinli Bulent , Ozturk Gurkan , Polat K. Yalcin , Atamanalp S. Selcuk , Ozbey Isa , Onbas Omer , Akcay M. Nuran , Balik Ahmet A. , Guvendi Bulent
Published: May 2007

Background:  Hydatid cyst (HC) continues to be endemic in the Mediterranean countries, such as Turkey. Living in a rural area is an important risk factor for the disease. HC is most commonly seen in the liver and lungs, but retroperitoneal hydatid cyst is very rare. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic findings and surgical treatment of this unusual lesion.

Methods:  Between 1979 and 2004, 14 cases with primary retroperitoneal hydatid cyst were treated surgically at our clinic.

Results:  Symptoms included flank pain in eight (57.1%) and palpable mass in six patients (42.8%). The cyst was located in the right retroperitoneum in seven patients (50%), left retroperitoneum in five patients (35.7%), retrovesical region in one patient (7.1%) and paravesical region in one patient (7.1%). Surgical approaches were right paramedian extraperitoneal approach in four patients, left paramedian extraperitoneal approach in two patients and midline transperitoneal approach in eight patients. Total pericystectomy was chosen as the surgical procedure in all patients except in five (35.7%), who had partial cystectomy for cysts located near the vital structures. There were no complications and mortality postoperatively.

Conclusion:  A primary HC of the retroperitoneum is a distinct clinical entity that must be considered when caring for a patient with a retroperitoneal mass in endemic regions. It should be treated after the diagnosis is confirmed without any delay because of secondary spillages due to perforations and other possible complications.
RANDOMIZED TRIAL OF SKIN CLOSURE AFTER LAPAROTOMY FOR GYNAECOLOGICAL SURGERY
Authors: Obermair Andreas , Crandon Alex , Perrin Lewis , Walsh Tom , Carrazo Marcelo , Nicklin James
Published: May 2007

Background:  New suture materials may provide patients with a better cosmetic outcome at similar pain and wound complication rate.

Methods:  To assess pain and cosmetic outcome among patients randomized to receive wound closure after laparotomy for gynaecological surgery using staples, polyglecaprone 25 or polyglecaprone 6211 subcuticular sutures.

Results:  Overall, 90 patients (87.4% consent rate) were randomized. There was no difference in wound complications and pain between the three groups. Patients randomized to polyglecaprone 6211 subcuticular sutures rated the cosmetic result at 1 and 6 weeks after surgery somewhat lower than patients randomized to the two alternative groups; however, at 3 months after surgery, all three groups rated the cosmetic result as similar.

Conclusions:  This study suggests that the three wound closure methods have similar short‐term pain and cosmetic outcomes, as well as a similar rate of wound complications, leaving the decision of the most appropriate closure method to individual surgeons.
INLINE RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION‐ASSISTED LAPAROSCOPIC LIVER RESECTION: FIRST EXPERIMENT WITH STAPLING DEVICE
Authors: Yao Peng , Gunasegaram Aravin , Ladd Leigh A. , Chu Frank , Morris David L.
Published: May 2007

Background:  In liver surgery, the increase in advancement of laparoscopic equipment has allowed the feasibility and safety of complex laparoscopic liver resection. However, blood loss and the potential risk of gas embolism seem to be the main obstacles. In this study, we successfully used the InLine radiofrquency ablation (RFA) device to carry out laparoscopic hand‐assisted liver resection in pigs.

Methods:  Under general anaesthesia with tracheal intubation, pigs underwent InLine RFA‐assisted laparoscopic liver resection. After installation of Hand Port and trocars, the InLine RFA device was introduced through Hand Port system and inserted into the premarked resection line. Then the generator was turned on and the power was applied according to the power setting. The resection was finally carried out using diathermy or stapler. For the control group, resection was simply carried out by diathermy or stapler.

Results:  Eight Landrace pigs underwent 23 liver resections. Blood loss was reduced significantly in the InLine group (P < 0.001) when compared with control group in both surgical methods (diathermy and stapler).

Conclusion:  In this study, we successfully carried out InLine RFA‐assisted laparoscopic liver resection in both stapled and diathermy group. We showed that there was a highly significant difference between InLine and other liver resection techniques laparoscopically.
Thyrotoxic, hypokalaemic periodic paralysis: Polynesians, an ethnic group at risk
Authors: Elston M. S. , Orr‐Walker B. J. , Dissanayake A. M. , Conaglen J. V.
Published: May 2007

Background: Thyrotoxic, hypokalaemic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a reversible cause of severe muscle weakness that occurs in a small minority of thyrotoxic patients. Most cases to date have been reported in Asian men.

Aims: To evaluate the ethnic distribution of patients with TPP.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of all patients presenting with thyrotoxicosis and hypokalaemia with paralysis to two New Zealand hospitals.

Results: Seventy‐one per cent of the 21 patients with TPP were of Polynesian ethnicity (Maori and Pacific Islander), 24% Asian and 5% European. Based on population demographics, these figures suggest a 37‐fold overrepresentation for Polynesians and 159‐fold for Asians compared with New Zealand Europeans.

Conclusion: Polynesian, in addition to Asian people, are two ethnic groups at particular risk of TPP, and this condition must be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting to the emergency department with severe hypokalaemia and weakness.
Anti‐CD20 antibody in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura refractory to plasma exchange
Authors: Chow K. V , Carroll R , Branley P , Nicholls K , Becker G , Hogan C
Published: May 2007

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura is a rare condition characterized by microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, altered neurology, renal impairment and fever. While plasma exchange has reduced mortality from more than 90% to between 10 and 30%, a proportion of cases fail to respond. Rituximab may be efficacious in the management of refractory cases of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. We present two cases in which rituximab was used with successful outcomes. Treatment resulted in resolution of severe clinical and haematological abnormalities in both patients. There has been no relapse after 16 months follow up. Our experience supports the use of rituximab in difficult cases of TTP. Ongoing evaluation of its use is in progress at our institution.
Development and validation of the Diabetes Obstacles Questionnaire (DOQ) to assess obstacles in living with Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Hearnshaw H. , Wright K. , Dale J. , Sturt J. , Vermeire E. , Van Royen P.
Published: May 2007

Aims  To develop and validate an easy‐to‐use questionnaire to identify obstacles to self management in Type 2 diabetes.

Methods  The Diabetes Obstacles Questionnaire (DOQ) was developed from earlier research and the literature. It was completed by 180 people with Type 2 diabetes, recruited from 22 general practices in the UK. Responders also completed a quality‐of‐life questionnaire (ADDQoL) and the Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID) scale.

Results  From analysis of the 176 usable questionnaires, 36 items of the original 113 items were deemed redundant. The remaining 77 items were assembled into eight sub‐scales covering Medication, Self Monitoring, Knowledge and Beliefs, Diagnosis, Relationships with Health‐Care Professionals, Lifestyle Changes, Coping, and Advice and Support. Each sub‐scale had a factor structure of no more than three factors, had Cronbach's alpha of more than 0.75, and a Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin of more than 0.75. Each sub‐scale correlated significantly with the PAID scale (P < 0.01), demonstrating criterion validity. Construct validity was shown by significant correlation between HbA1c and the sub‐scales which relate to managing blood glucose levels: Self Monitoring, Relationship with Health‐Care Professionals, Lifestyle Changes and Coping. Construct validity was further shown by significant correlation between QoL scores and Medication, Lifestyle Changes and Coping.

Discussion  The DOQ, comprising eight sub‐scales, is a usable, valid instrument for both clinical and research settings. It helps to identify in detail the obstacles which an individual finds in living with Type 2 diabetes.
Hypothesis: the ‘metabolic memory’, the new challenge of diabetes
Authors: Ihnat M. A. , Thorpe J. E. , Ceriello A.
Published: May 2007

Large randomized studies have established that early intensive glycaemic control reduces the risk of diabetic complications, both micro‐ and macrovascular. However, epidemiological and prospective data support a long‐term influence of early metabolic control on clinical outcomes. This phenomenon has recently been defined as ‘metabolic memory.’ Potential mechanisms for propagating this ‘memory’ are the non‐enzymatic glycation of cellular proteins and lipids, and an excess of cellular reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, in particular originated at the level of glycated‐mitochondrial proteins, perhaps acting in concert with one another to maintain stress signalling. Furthermore, the emergence of this ‘metabolic memory’ suggests the need for very early aggressive treatment aiming to ‘normalize’ glycaemic control and the addition of agents which reduce cellular reactive species and glycation in order to minimize long‐term diabetic complications.
The Embedded Nature of Rural Legal Services: Sustaining Service Provision in Wales
Authors: Franklin Alex , Lee Robert G.
Published: May 2007

There is a considerable amount of literature on embeddedness as part of sociological theory of economic action. Cultural and structural embeddedness often work together to shape the framework of economic relations, but, in an analysis of rural solicitors, we find unevenness between cultural and structural embeddedness. There are strong traits of the former, through a sense of place and belonging, but much less evidence of the latter with the structural relationships appearing relatively weak and underdeveloped. In a discussion supported by empirical data from a recent survey of rural legal practices in Wales, a number of causes are identified. The paper concludes that trends towards increasingly specialized rather than generalized legal service provision, set alongside the increasingly differentiated nature of rural space, suggest that the longer‐term sustainability of rural legal practices may require both greater investment at the level of structural embeddedness alongside continuing reinvestment at the cultural level.
Law's Empire: Socio‐legal Empirical Research in the Twenty‐first Century
Authors: Hillyard Paddy
Published: May 2007

The first section of this paper provides a description of the main findings and recommendations of the report of the Nuffield Inquiry on Empirical Legal Research, conducted by Professors Hazel Genn, Martin Partington, and Sally Wheeler. Professor Michael Adler also published a paper specifically on research training, and the section also draws upon some of his analysis. The second section gives more context to the report by presenting some data on the increasing penetration of law into all aspects of our lives. The third section takes a critical look at the recommendations and suggests that developing a research capacity in empirical socio‐legal research is not going to be easy.