bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanodot coupler with a surface plasmon polariton condenser for optical far/near-field conversion
Authors: Nomura Wataru , Ohtsu Motoichi , Yatsui Takashi
Published: April 2005

To transmit an optical signal to a nanophotonic device, a nanodot coupler was fabricated from a linear array of closely spaced metallic nanoparticles. To increase the optical far- to near-field conversion efficiency for transmission, a surface plasmon polariton (SPP) condenser was also fabricated from hemispherical metallic nanoparticles so that it worked as a “phased array”. The SPP was focused with a spot size as small as 400 nm at λ=785nm. When the focused SPP was incident into the nanodot coupler, its transmission length through the nanodot coupler was confirmed to be 4.0 μm, which is three times longer than that of a metallic core waveguide owing to the efficient near-field coupling between the localized surface plasmon of neighboring nanoparticles. Furthermore, the transmission length through a zigzag-shaped nanodot coupler was as long as that through a linear one.
Complex oxide nanostructures by pulsed laser deposition through nanostencils
Authors: Cojocaru Cristian-Victor , Harnagea Catalin , Rosei Federico , Pignolet Alain , van den Boogaart Marc A. F. , Brugger Jürgen
Published: April 2005

We achieved parallel nanoscale patterning of ferroelectric complex oxides by pulsed laser deposition through a nanostencil (i.e., through a pattern of apertures in a thin free-standing membrane). Ordered arrays of nanostructured barium titanate (BaTiO3) were obtained onto different substrates in a single deposition step, at room temperature, replicating accurately the aperture patterns in the stencil membrane. After a postdeposition annealing treatment, x-ray diffraction pattern showed a nanocrystalline BaTiO3 structure close to the perovskite cubic phase with grains 30–35nm in size. Their local ferroelectric properties were detected using piezoresponse force microscopy.
Maser Emission in Astrophysical Plasmas: 2003 Robert Ellery Lecture
Authors: Melrose Don
Published: April 2005

There are three distinct types of ‘coherent emission’ in astrophysical plasmas: plasma emission (e.g. in solar radio bursts), electron cyclotron maser emission (e.g. in Jupiter's radio bursts), and pulsar radio emission. The development and current status of our understanding of coherent emission is reviewed, concentrating on plasma emission and electron cyclotron maser emission for which there is direct information on the distributions of electrons that produce the radiation. A generic model for a coherent emission process involves a maser generating radiation in a natural mode of the ambient plasma, and operating near marginal stability. A specific coherent emission mechanism involves the form of free energy to drive the maser, a pump that provides the free energy, and the plasma instability that leads to wave growth. The nature of coherence and its measurement through higher order intensity correlations are discussed.
A transcriptional response to singlet oxygen, a toxic byproduct of photosynthesis
Authors: Anthony Jennifer R. , Warczak Kristin L. , Donohue Timothy J.
Published: April 2005

The ability of phototrophs to convert light into biological energy is critical for life on Earth. However, there can be deleterious consequences associated with this bioenergetic conversion, including the production of toxic byproducts. For example, singlet oxygen (1O2) can be formed during photosynthesis by energy transfer from excited triplet-state chlorophyll pigments to O2. By monitoring gene expression and growth in the presence of1O2, we show that the phototrophic bacteriumRhodobacter sphaeroidesmounts a transcriptional response to this reactive oxygen species (ROS) that requires the alternative σ factor, σE. An increase in σEactivity is seen when cells are exposed to1O2generated either by photochemistry within the photosynthetic apparatus or the photosensitizer, methylene blue. Wavelengths of light responsible for the generating triplet-state chlorophyll pigments in the photosynthetic apparatus are sufficient for a sustained increase in σEactivity. Continued exposure to1O2is required to maintain this transcriptional response, and other ROS do not cause a similar increase in σE-dependent gene expression. When a σEmutant produces low levels of carotenoids,1O2is bacteriocidal, suggesting that this response is essential for protecting cells from this ROS. In addition, global gene expression analysis identified ≈180 genes (≈60 operons) whose RNA levels increase ≥3-fold in cells with increased σEactivity. Gene products encoded by four newly identified σE-dependent operons are predicted to be involved in stress response, protecting cells from1O2damage, or the conservation of energy.
A clinical and patch test study of patients with positive patch test reactions to fragrance mix in China
Authors: Lu Xueyan , Li Lin‐Feng , Wang Wenhui , Wang Jing
Published: April 2005

The clinical and patch test (PT) features of patients with positive PT reactions to fragrance mix (FM) were studied. 378 consecutive eczema outpatients patch tested with a modified European standard series were analysed. 60 patients (15.9%) reacted to FM. No significant differences could be found between the ages of FM PT‐positive and PT‐negative patients [median age 40.5 (range from 18 years to 69 years) versus median age 37.5 (range from 5 years to 81 years), rank sum test, P = 0.301]. FM PT‐positive rate in confirmed non‐cosmetic allergic contact dermatitis patients was 30.4%, which was similar to that in confirmed cosmetic allergic contact dermatitis patients (30.4% versus 30%, χ2 test, χ2 = 0.0010, P = 0.972). The FM PT‐positive rates were 10.8% in males and 18.2% in females (χ2 test, χ2 = 3.3443, P = 0.067). 76.7% of the patients with fragrance contact dermatitis were allergic to Chinese traditional medicine, which is much higher than that for cosmetic allergy (76.7% versus 43.3%, χ2 test, χ2 = 6.9446, P = 0.008). The positive PT rate to colophonium in the patients with positive PT reactions to FM is higher than that in the FM PT‐negative patients (18.9% versus 3.0%, χ2 test, χ2 = 15.5471, P < 0.01). 62.5% of the patients reacted to colophonium were positive to FM. These results show that age has little effect on fragrance contact allergy. Other fragrant products besides cosmetics are also important sources of fragrance contact allergy. Chinese traditional medicine was an important factor in fragrance allergy in China. Patients with positive PT reactions to FM are more likely to react to colophonium.
Characterization of the humoral immune response in two paediatric patients transplanted with split livers from ABO‐incompatible living‐related donors: appearance of cytomegalovirus‐induced ABO antibodies
Authors: Rydberg L. , Ascher H. , Krantz M. , Kullberg‐Lindh C. , Olausson M. , Svalander C. , Breimer M. E.
Published: April 2005

summary.  Two blood group O paediatric patients, 12 and 6 months old, were transplanted with liver segments from their blood group A2Le (a–b+) Se and blood group A1Le (a–b+) Se fathers, respectively. Recipient anti‐A antibody titres were reduced prior to transplantation by blood exchange. Both patients had rejection episodes in the post‐transplant period that were reversed by anti‐rejection therapy. No anti‐A antibody titre rise occurred concomitant with these rejections. Postoperatively both patients had cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, and simultaneous with these infections, a strong increase in anti‐A antibody titres was seen, but no rejection occurred. The anti‐A antibody titre increase seemed to be specific for A antigens, because the anti‐B and anti‐αGal (anti‐pig) antibody titres did not show any changes. CMV infection is a serious cause of morbidity and mortality in immunosuppressed patients, and the virus can influence glycosylation of infected cells. Whether this can explain the importance of the infection in relation to the increase in titre remains to be elucidated.
Hepatitis B virus vaccination of blood donors – what costs may be expected?
Authors: Ringwald J. , Mertz I. , Zimmermann R. , Weisbach V. , Strasser E. , Achenbach S. , Seyboth S. , Richter E. , Eckstein R.
Published: April 2005

summary.  Although the risk of transfusion‐transmitted hepatitis B virus (TT‐HBV) infection is very low, it still exists. Therefore, introduction of further precautions to reduce this risk is discussed at present. However, so far no data are available about the HBV vaccination status among blood donors (BDs). We compared HBV vaccination status of apheresis donors (ADs) of a university based and whole BDs (WBDs) of a Red Cross blood donation service using a standardized questionnaire. On the basis of these data, the estimated costs over 10 years for HBV vaccination were calculated for two different strategies and compared with the costs for HBV nucleic acid amplification technology (NAT) testing. 22·3% of the WBDs and 41·2% of the ADs indicated having received at least one HBV vaccine dose. This difference was related to the different demographic structures of the two BD populations (BDPs). With regard to the primary costs for the blood donation service, HBV vaccination of BDs could be an alternative to HBV NAT testing, especially for BDPs with an already high HBV vaccination rate and a high donation frequency.
Effects of a major earthquake on blood donor types and infectious diseases marker rates
Authors: Sönmezoglu M. , Kocak N. , Öncul O. , Özbayburtlu S. , Hepgul Z. , Kosan E. , Aksu Y. , Bayik M.
Published: April 2005

summary.  This observational study attempted to identify the effect of a natural disaster on the safety of blood supply and donor types with the influx of donors after a severe earthquake.

Blood donation rate, blood discard rate and safety of blood donations responding to the earthquake, as projected from the infectious disease marker rate, were evaluated in blood donated immediately before (1 July−17 August) and after 17 August 1999 (17 August−21 August). These were compared with the results from the corresponding periods in 1998 and 2000 for donations at a university medical centre and two regional blood centres.

8055 units of allogeneic blood were collected at two regional blood centres, and 450 units were collected at a university medical centre during 4 days. Viral marker rates were nearly the same at the former but were slightly lower at the latter. The blood discard rate was nearly twice the comparative periods at the former, but it remained unchanged at the latter. Voluntary donors replaced the replacement donors during 4 days.

This analysis highlights the size of the pool of potential donors that are available as a national resource that can be motivated to give blood with the right motivation.
Stereological measures of trabecular bone structure: comparison of 3D micro computed tomography with 2D histological sections in human proximal tibial bone biopsies
Authors: THOMSEN J. S. , LAIB A. , KOLLER B. , PROHASKA S. , MOSEKILDE LI. , GOWIN W.
Published: April 2005

Stereology applied on histological sections is the ‘gold standard’ for obtaining quantitative information on cancellous bone structure. Recent advances in micro computed tomography (µCT) have made it possible to acquire three‐dimensional (3D) data non‐destructively. However, before the 3D methods can be used as a substitute for the current ‘gold standard’ they have to be verified against the existing standard. The aim of this study was to compare bone structural measures obtained from 3D µCT data sets with those obtained by stereology performed on conventional histological sections using human tibial bone biopsies. Furthermore, this study forms the first step in introducing the proximal tibia as a potential bone examination location by peripheral quantitative CT and CT. Twenty‐nine trabecular bone biopsies were obtained from autopsy material at the medial side of the proximal tibial metaphysis. The biopsies were embedded in methylmetacrylate before µCT scanning in a Scanco µCT 40 scanner at a resolution of 20 × 20 × 20 µm3, and the 3D data sets were analysed with a computer program. After µCT scanning, 16 sections were cut from the central 2 mm of each biopsy and analysed with a computerized method. Trabecular bone volume (BV/TV) and connectivity density (CD) were estimated in both modalities, whereas trabecular bone pattern factor (TBPf) was estimated on the histological sections only. Trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), number (Tb.N) and separation (Tb.Sp), and structure model index (SMI) were estimated with the µCT method only. Excellent correlations were found between the two techniques for BV/TV (r = 0.95) and CD (r = 0.95). Additionally, an excellent relationship (r = 0.95) was ascertained between TBPf and SMI. The study revealed high correlations between measures of bone structure obtained from conventional 2D sections and 3D µCT data. This indicates that 3D µCT data sets can be used as a substitute for conventional histological sections for bone structural evaluations.
Performance comparison between the high‐speed Yokogawa spinning disc confocal system and single‐point scanning confocal systems
Authors: WANG E. , BABBEY C. M. , DUNN K. W.
Published: April 2005

Fluorescence microscopy of the dynamics of living cells presents a special challenge to a microscope imaging system, simultaneously requiring both high spatial resolution and high temporal resolution, but with illumination levels low enough to prevent fluorophore damage and cytotoxicity. We have compared the high‐speed Yokogawa CSU10 spinning disc confocal system with several conventional single‐point scanning confocal (SPSC) microscopes, using the relationship between image signal‐to‐noise ratio and fluorophore photobleaching as an index of system efficiency. These studies demonstrate that the efficiency of the CSU10 consistently exceeds that of the SPSC systems. The high efficiency of the CSU10 means that quality images can be collected with much lower levels of illumination; the CSU10 was capable of achieving the maximum signal‐to‐noise of an SPSC system at illumination levels that incur only at 1/15th of the rate of the photobleaching of the SPSC system. Although some of the relative efficiency of the CSU10 system may be attributed to the use of a CCD rather than a photomultiplier detector system, our analyses indicate that high‐speed imaging with the SPSC system is limited by fluorescence saturation at the high levels of illumination frequently needed to collect images at high frame rates. The high speed, high efficiency and freedom from fluorescence saturation combine to make the CSU10 effective for extended imaging of living cells at rates capable of capturing the three‐dimensional motion of endosomes moving up to several micrometres per second.
Estimation of the standard deviation in three‐dimensional microscopy by spatial statistics
Authors: SANCHEZ‐BREA L. M. , BERNABEU E.
Published: April 2005

Usually, the calibration process for three‐dimensional microscopy involves the use of a reference flat surface. The random fluctuations of the topographic image for this reference surface are used for determining the uncertainty of the microscope. When the sample material or the measuring conditions of the microscope are modified (such as the objective used in a confocal microscope, or the tip in an atomic force microscope), the measuring conditions vary and thus a new calibration is required. In this work, a technique based on spatial statistics methods (more specifically, the variogram function) is proposed to determine accurately the standard deviation for three‐dimensional microscopy that does not require a reference flat surface and therefore eliminates the need for a previous calibration process of this parameter.
Risk factors for spontaneous preterm birth among Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal women in Manitoba
Authors: Heaman Maureen I. , Blanchard James F. , Gupton Annette L. , Moffatt Michael E. K. , Currie Raymond F.
Published: April 2005

In the province of Manitoba, the incidence of preterm birth has been increasing and the rate is higher among Aboriginal than non‐Aboriginal women. The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for spontaneous preterm birth in Manitoba women, and to compare risk factors among Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal women. A case–control study was performed at two tertiary care hospitals in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada from October 1999 to December 2000. Cases delivered a live singleton infant at < 37 weeks gestation (n = 226; 36% Aboriginal), while controls delivered between 37 and 42 weeks gestation (n = 458; 38% Aboriginal). An interview was conducted with each subject on the postpartum unit, and information was collected from the health record.

Using stratified analyses to control for race/ethnicity, several risk factors for preterm birth had a uniform effect measure across strata, while others demonstrated heterogeneity. After adjusting for other maternal characteristics in a multivariable logistic regression model, significant risk factors for all women included previous preterm birth, two or more previous spontaneous abortions, vaginal bleeding after 12 weeks gestation, gestational hypertension, antenatal hospitalisation, and prelabour rupture of membranes. In addition, potentially modifiable risk factors included low weight gain during pregnancy and inadequate prenatal care for all women, and high levels of perceived stress for Aboriginal women. These modifiable risk factors lend themselves to public health interventions, and should be targeted in future prevention efforts.
Season of birth in valvular heart disease
Authors: Bosshardt Daniela , Ajdacic‐Gross Vladeta , Lang Phung , Bosshardt Mathias , Bopp Matthias , Addor Marie‐Claude , Gutzwiller Felix
Published: April 2005

This study demonstrates seasonal variations of birth dates in children with congenital valvular heart disease and in adults dying from valvular heart disease. The findings are based on the 1989–98 Swiss EUROCAT data, and on 1969–94 Swiss mortality records. Seasonality was tested with aggregated monthly data using Edwards’ procedure. Both data sets showed excesses between December and March, consistent in different forms of valvular disease and in both sexes. Despite the decline of rheumatic heart disease, risk factors causing season of birth effects remain relevant for congenital anomalies.
An assessment of pregnancy‐related mortality in the United States
Authors: MacKay Andrea P. , Berg Cynthia J. , Duran Catherine , Chang Jeani , Rosenberg Harry
Published: April 2005

Deaths from pregnancy complications remain an important public health concern. Nationally, two systems collect information on the number of deaths and characteristics of the women who died from complications of pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) reports maternal mortality through the National Vital Statistics System (NVSS); CDC National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion's Pregnancy Mortality Surveillance System (PMSS) conducts epidemiological surveillance of pregnancy‐related deaths. The numbers of deaths reported by these two systems have differed over the past two decades; our objective was to determine the magnitude and nature of these differences. For 1995–97, we compared maternal deaths in the NVSS with pregnancy‐related deaths in PMSS for the 50 States, Washington DC and New York City. Pregnancy‐related deaths whose underlying cause was assigned to ICD‐9 codes 630–676 by NVSS were classified as maternal deaths; those coded outside 630–676 were not. There were 1387 pregnancy‐related deaths in PMSS and 898 maternal deaths in the NVSS; 54% of these deaths were reported in both systems, 40% in PMSS only, and 6% in NVSS only. Pregnancy‐related deaths due to haemorrhage, embolism, and hypertensive complications of pregnancy were proportionately more often identified by NVSS as maternal deaths than those from cardiovascular complications, medical conditions or infection. From the 1471 unduplicated deaths classified as maternal or pregnancy‐related from either reporting system, we estimated a combined pregnancy‐related mortality ratio of 12.6/100 000 live births for 1995–97, compared with 11.9 for PMSS only and 7.5 for NVSS only. The identification and classification of these events is dependent on the provision of complete and accurate cause‐of‐death information on death certificates. Changes in the guidelines for coding maternal deaths under ICD‐10 may change the relationship in the number of deaths resulting from pregnancy reported by these two systems.
Detection and identification of gibberellins in Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) shoots
Authors: Doumas P. , Imbault N. , Moritz T. , Odén P. C.
Published: April 2005

Extracts of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco) shoots were purified by reversed and normal phase HPLC; gibberellin (GA)‐like compounds detected by radioimmunoassay with antibodies against GA4 and the Tan‐ginbozu dwarf rice micro‐drop biossay were analyzed by GC‐MS. Three major components were identified as GA4, GA7, and GA9 while smaller amounts of GA1, GA3 and putative GA9‐glucosyl ester were also present.
Periodicity of cambial activity in Abies balsamea. I. Effects of temperature and photoperiod on cambial dormancy and frost hardiness
Authors: Mellerowicz E. J. , Coleman W. K. , Riding R. T. , Little C. H. A.
Published: April 2005

The relationship between from hardiness and growth potential, and their dependence on temperature and photoperiod, was investigated in the one‐year‐old cambium of balsam fir [Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.]. Six‐year‐old trees were exposed for 9 weeks to either the natural environment or one of 4 controlled environments in the fall (18 September‐18 November), spring (12 April–14 June) and summer (19 July – 19 September). The 4 controlled environments were (1) WS, warm temperature (24/20°C in day/night) + short day (8 h). (2) WL. warm temperature (24/20°C) + long day (8 h + 1 h night break), (3) CS. cold temperature (9/5°C) + short day (8 h) and (4) CL, cold temperature (9/5°C) + long day (8 h + 1 h night break). At the beginning and end of each exposure, cambial activity was measured by recording the number of xylem, cambium and phloem cells, frost hardiness was estimated from the cambium's ability to survive freezing to –40°C, and cambial growth potential was deduced from the duration of the cell cycle and the production of xylem, cambium and phloem cells in cuttings cultured for 4 weeks with exogenous indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) under environmental conditions favourable for cambial activity. In the natural environment, frost hardening began in September and was completed in November, while dehardening occurred when the cambium reactivated. CL, CS, and to a lesser extent WS, promoted hardening in the summer and fall, but did not prevent dehardening in the spring. The cambial growth potential in the natural environment declined from a maximum in April to a low level in June, reached a minimum in September, then increased to a high level in November. This potential was promoted by CL and CS on all dates by WL in the summer and fall. The ratio of xylem to phloem induced by IAA treatment was greatest in June and least in September in cuttings from trees exposed to the natural environment, and was increased by CL and CS in the fall. The cambium in intact branches of trees protected from chilling during the fall and winter resumed cell cycling after less than 9 weeks of dormancy, but produced mostly or only phloem in the subsequent growing period. It is concluded that the frost hardiness of the cambium, the IAA‐induced cycling of cambial cells, and IAA‐induced xylem to phloem ratio vary independently with season, temperature and photoperiod, and that the periodicity of these processes is regulated endogenously.
Determination of the distribution of three nitrate reductase isoforms in soybean seedlings by chromatography and a simple method based on assay conditions
Authors: Cathala Nicole , Conejero Genevíève , Gojon Alaín , Passama Lucien , Robin Paul
Published: April 2005

Blue Sepharose affinity chromatography was used to study the distribution of the constitutive NAD(P)H‐nitrate reductase (EC 1.6.6.2: Cl‐NR) and of the constitutive and inducible NADH‐nitrate reductases (EC 1.6.6.1; C2‐NR and i‐NR, respectively), in the unifoliolate leaf (F0), the first and the second trifoliolate leaves (F1 and F2) and the roots of urea‐ and nitrate‐grown soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) plants. The C1‐NR eluted by NADPH is present in the F0 and F1 leaves and nearly absent in the F2 leaf. The activity pattern of this isoform is not modified by nitrate nutrition. The C2‐NR eluted by NADH is high in the F0 leaf, low in the F1 leaf and nearly absent in the F2 leaf of urea‐grown plants. The NADH elution from leaves of nitrate‐grown plants is a mixture of C2‐NR and i‐NR, requiring careful interpretation of results. However, i‐NR appears the principal isoform in the leaves especially in the F2 leaf. This i‐NR is the only NR present in the roots.

The pH effect on the assay of the 3 partially purified isoforms was studied using LNR2 and LNR5 soybean mutants to remove the cross contamination. It appears that C1‐NR and C2‐NR activities are negligible at pH 8.5, which allows the assay of only the i‐NR in a crude extract at this pH, even when C1‐NR and C2‐NR are present. It appears also that the assay of C1‐NR activity at pH 6.5 with NADPH is free of interference by the i‐NR. To estimate the C2‐NR activity with NADH at pH 6.5 in a crude extract in the presence of C1‐NR and i‐NR, we propose a simple calculation using the coefficient from the pH responses. These calculations are used to compare the development of C1‐NR, C2‐NR and i‐NR activities in the F0 and F1 leaves of plants previously grown on urea and transferred to nitrate. Only the activity of the inducible isoform is modified by the nitrogen treatment. Activity of the constitutive isofroms appear stable during the 48 h treatment, with only a slight decrease in C1‐NR activity being observed with time.
Mesh repair of parastomal hernias – a safety modification
Authors: Longman R. J. , Thomson W. H.
Published: April 2005

Introduction  Parastomal herniation is not uncommon and numerous surgical approaches to the problem have been employed including mesh reinforcement. Bowel wall erosion is a worrying potential complication of placing an edge of mesh around bowel. To reduce this possibility a simple modification is suggested.

Method  The polyproylene mesh repair is fashioned on the posterior rectus sheath. The required aperture for the bowel is marked appropriately on the mesh. Instead of simple removal of the marked circle, the aperture is fashioned by folding back and stitching in place the triangular flaps from the middle to form a rolled rather than sharp edge. Non‐absorbable monofilament stitches reconstitute the mesh encirclement, and attach it laterally and medially to the aponeurotic tissue. A review of the case notes was conducted and each patient was contacted by a postal questionnaire.

Results  This technique has been used in 10 patients (7 end colostomies, 2 end ileostomies and 1 loop ileostomy) since 2000. Over a median follow‐up period of 30 months (range 2 to 40 months) there have been no hernia recurrences, no infected meshes, no bowel damage attributable to the mesh and no troubles with stoma. The only complication encountered has been a segment of superficial wound breakdown in one patient.

Conclusions  This technique appears to offer a safe and reliable modification for mesh repair of parastomal herniation, in being designed to obviate the possibility of erosion of the stomal bowel wall by a sharp mesh edge but at the same time providing a sound herniorrhaphy by complete encirclement.
Colorectal cancer audit: a comparative study before and after establishing a specialty colorectal surgery unit
Authors: Sitzler P. J. , Taylor M. , Faragher I. , Mclaughlin S.
Published: April 2005

Objective  A prospective audit was kept for colorectal cancer after the establishment of a special‐interest colorectal unit at a Melbourne metropolitan teaching hospital.

Methods  These data were compared with data collected retrospectively on surgical management of colorectal cancer by general surgeons in the hospital.

Results  The groups were well matched with respect to age, sex, pathological staging and elective vs urgent surgery. Differences were found in postoperative length of stay (9 vs 12 days, P = 0.01) in favour of the colorectal special interest group. Differences were found in the permanent stoma rate with regard to rectal cancer with the colorectal special interest group having a lower permanent stoma rate.

Conclusion  Specialisation improved the results of treatment.
Prospective analysis of stoma‐related complications
Authors: Robertson I. , Leung E. , Hughes D. , Spiers M. , Donnelly L. , Mackenzie I. , Macdonald A.
Published: April 2005

Background  Stoma‐related complication rates vary between 10% and 70%, possibly because of varying lengths of follow‐up. It is thought that most of the complications improve with time. Furthermore, little is known about the commonly neglected but potentially quite distressing complications such as leakage, soiling and night‐time emptying. The aim of this audit was to examine prospectively whether there was any difference in the complication rates at different time‐points during the postoperative follow up period.

Method  A prospective study on 408 consecutive patients with either colostomy or ileostomy was conducted over a period of at least 2 years. Both emergency and elective procedures were included. Stoma related complications were analysed at 10 days, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years postoperatively.

Results  Both elective and emergency stomas had similar complication rates. The percentage of patients who had stenosis (1–2%), retraction (8–22%), prolapse (1–3%) or odour (6–9%) did not significantly change with time. The complication rates for skin excoriation, leakage, soiling or night‐time emptying were higher amongst the ileostomy patients, and these rates did not improve with time. The proportion of patients who had parastomal hernias increased with time (from 0 to 40% in the colostomy and 0 to 22% in the ileostomy group). Daytime leakage, night‐time leakage, soiling and night‐time emptying were more problematic in the ileostomy group.

Conclusions  The proportion of patients who had postoperative stoma‐related complications did not improve with time, but the rate of parastomal hernias in both groups and night‐time emptying in the ileostomy group was worse with time. Ileostomy patients had a higher incidence of skin excoriation, leakage, soiling, and night‐time emptying, and they should receive additional support.
Diagnosis and treatment of enterovesical fistulae
Authors: Kavanagh D. , Neary P. , Dodd J. D. , Sheahan K. M. , O'Donoghue D. , Hyland J. M. P.
Published: April 2005

Objective  Enterovesical fistulae are a recognized complication of a variety of inflammatory and neoplastic conditions. Despite advances in imaging and treatment the diagnosis may be delayed and the management remains diverse. We describe our experience with their diagnosis and management.

Patients and methods  This retrospective study encompassed all patients referred over a 10‐year period with clinical suspicion of or confirmed enterovesical fistula. Demographics, clinical presentation, aetiology and clinical outcome were evaluated. Mean follow‐up was 18 months (range 6–50 months).

Results  Thirty patients were studied. The mean age was 63.5 years (range 23–92 years). Fifteen (50%) patients presented with classical urinary symptoms (pneumaturia, faecaluria and recurrent urinary tract infections). The commonest investigations (n, % positive) included CT (15, 80), cystoscopy (16, 87.5), endoscopy (11, 54.5) and barium enema (8, 50). There were 20 inflammatory and 10 neoplastic aetiologies. Five patients were treated conservatively and 25 patients underwent surgery. Surgery resulted in symptomatic cure in the majority of cases (22/25).

Conclusion  Classical urinary symptoms were only evident in 50% of patients with confirmed fistulae. We advocate CT scanning as the optimum imaging modality before surgical intervention. Surgical treatment in a specialized unit remains the most effective treatment of enterovesical fistulae.
Enhanced recovery of a secreted recombinant human growth factor using stabilizing additives and by co‐expression of human serum albumin in the moss Physcomitrella patens
Authors: Baur Armin , Reski Ralf , Gorr Gilbert
Published: April 2005

The production of pharmaceutical proteins in plants provides a valuable alternative to other traditional eukaryotic expression systems from economic and safety perspectives. The moss Physcomitrella patens allows the expression and secretion of complex target proteins into a simple aqueous maintenance medium, which facilitates downstream processing by rendering it less complex. To address the question of whether the addition of protein‐stabilizing substances enhances the recovery of a target protein secreted into the culture medium, several additives at different concentrations were tested in a small‐scale screening system. Although polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and human serum albumin (HSA) showed a significant impact on protein levels, supplementation of the medium with these substances was accompanied by certain limitations in upstream processes, such as foam formation (HSA), and in downstream processes, such as reduced binding efficiency on chromatography columns (PVP), respectively. In order to reap the benefit of the enhancing effect and to avoid the given negative aspects, we developed a new strategy based on the recombinant expression of HSA in plants that are already capable of expressing a target protein. First, we analysed the expression and secretion of recombinant HSA in transiently and stably transformed wild‐type (WT) plants. HSA was then co‐expressed in Physcomitrella plants transgenic for human vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Even with high expression levels of recombinant human VEGF (rhVEGF), the co‐expression of recombinant HSA (rHSA) resulted in 48%−102% higher recovery of the target protein without concomitant negative effects on the upstream process. This strategy enables the enhanced recovery of target protein and does not require the addition of foreign components directly to the culture medium.
A new metabonomic strategy for analysing the growth process of the poplar tree
Authors: Wiklund Susanne , Karlsson Marlene , Antti Henrik , Johnels Dan , Sjöström Michael , Wingsle Gunnar , Edlund Ulf
Published: April 2005

High‐resolution, magic angle spinning, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H HR/MAS NMR) spectroscopy and multivariate data analysis using batch processing (BP) were applied to the analysis of two different genotypes of poplar tree (Populus tremula L. x tremuloides Michx.) containing an antisense construct of PttMYB76 and control (wild‐type). A gene encoding a MYB transcription factor, with unknown function, PttMYB76, was selected from a cambial expressed sequence tag (EST) library of poplar tree (Populus tremula L. x tremuloides Michx.) for metabonomic characterization. The PttMYB76 gene is believed to affect different paths in the phenyl propanoid synthetic pathway. This pathway leads to the formation of S‐ and G‐lignin, flavonoids and sinapate esters. Milled poplar samples collected at the internodes of the tree were analysed using 1H HR/MAS NMR spectroscopy. The application of multivariate BP of the NMR results revealed a growth‐related gradient in the plant internode direction, as well as the discrimination between the trees with down‐regulated PttMYB76 expression and wild‐type populations. This paper focuses on the potential of a new analytical multivariate approach for analysing time‐related plant metabonomic data. The techniques used could, with the aid of suitable model compounds, be of high relevance to the detection and understanding of the different lignification processes within the two types of poplar tree. Additionally, the findings highlight the importance of applying robust and organized multivariate data analysis approaches to facilitate the modelling and interpretation of complex biological data sets.
Recent advances in rice biotechnology—towards genetically superior transgenic rice
Authors: Bajaj Shavindra , Mohanty Amitabh
Published: April 2005

Rice biotechnology has made rapid advances since the first transgenic rice plants were produced 15 years ago. Over the past decade, this progress has resulted in the development of high frequency, routine and reproducible genetic transformation protocols for rice. This technology has been applied to produce rice plants that withstand several abiotic stresses, as well as to gain tolerance against various pests and diseases. In addition, quality improving and increased nutritional value traits have also been introduced into rice. Most of these gains were not possible through conventional breeding technologies. Transgenic rice system has been used to understand the process of transformation itself, the integration pattern of transgene as well as to modulate gene expression. Field trials of transgenic rice, especially insect‐resistant rice, have recently been performed and several other studies that are prerequisite for safe release of transgenic crops have been initiated. New molecular improvisations such as inducible expression of transgene and selectable marker‐free technology will help in producing superior transgenic product. It is also a step towards alleviating public concerns relating to issues of transgenic technology and to gain regulatory approval. Knowledge gained from rice can also be applied to improve other cereals. The completion of the rice genome sequencing together with a rich collection of full‐length cDNA resources has opened up a plethora of opportunities, paving the way to integrate data from the large‐scale projects to solve specific biological problems.
Cannabinoids, loratadine and allopurinol as novel additions to the antipsoriatic ammunition
Authors: Namazi MR
Published: April 2005

As the current antipsoriatic medications are commonly associated with deleterious side‐effects, a determined search for safer agents, which could be used alone or in combination with current antipsoriatic drugs, would be very imperative. Psoriasis is believed to be characterized by a type 1 cytokine pattern; interferon‐γ, interleukin (IL)‐2 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α are predominantly expressed in this disorder. Nitric oxide, reactive oxygen species, histamine, leukotriene B4, and increased keratinocyte cyclic adenosine monophosphate/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cAMP/cGMP) ratio are supposed to play roles in the pathogenesis of this disorder. Based on the immunopathogenesis of psoriasis, this paper introduces three novel, potential treatments for this clinical conundrum: (i) cannabinoids, which exert inhibitory effects on antigen processing and macrophage/T‐cell interaction and also on the release of IL‐2, TNF‐α and nitric oxide from immune cells; (ii) loratadine, which is an antihistamine capable of decreasing the cAMP/cGMP ratio and the production of leukotriene B4; and (iii) allopurinol, which scavenges free radicals, inhibits the production of TNF‐α, and downregulates the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 and P2X7 receptors on monocytes/macrophages, which are involved in antigen presentation and production of the inflammatory response, respectively. Importantly, allopurinol, especially in combination with cyclosporin, has been shown to be effective against experimental autoimmune uveitis, which, like psoriasis, is a cell‐mediated autoimmune disorder.
A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of a commercial Aloe vera gel in the treatment of slight to moderate psoriasis vulgaris
Authors: Paulsen E , Korsholm L , Brandrup F
Published: April 2005

Background  The Aloe vera plant has been used for an array of ailments, including skin diseases. Recent experimental research have substantiated the presence of biologically active compounds in the gel, but there are few controlled, clinical trials to assess the efficacy.

Objective  To test the effect of a commercial, preserved, but otherwise untreated Aloe vera gel in psoriasis.

Patients/methods  Forty‐one patients with stable plaque psoriasis were included in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled right/left comparison. The study comprised a 2‐week wash‐out period followed by a 4‐week treatment period with two daily applications and follow‐up visits after 1 and 2 months.

Results  Data on 40 patients were analysed. The score sum of erythema, infiltration and desquamation decreased in 72.5% of the Aloe vera‐treated sites compared with 82.5% of the placebo‐treated areas from week 0 to week 4, which was statistically significant in favour of the placebo treatment (P = 0.0197). Fifty‐five per cent of the patients reported local side‐effects, mainly drying up of the skin on test areas.

Conclusions  The effect of this commercial Aloe vera gel on stable plaque psoriasis was modest and not better than placebo. However, the high response rate of placebo indicated a possible effect of this in its own right, which would make the Aloe vera gel treatment appear less effective.
Acrokeratosis paraneoplastica (Bazex syndrome)
Authors: Valdivielso M , Longo I , Suárez R , Huerta M , Lázaro P
Published: April 2005

Bazex syndrome is a paraneoplastic dermatosis characterized by acral psoriasiform lesions associated with an underlying neoplasm. We present the case of a 64‐year‐old patient that was diagnosed with squamous cell lung carcinoma after being evaluated for lesions compatible with paraneoplastic acrokeratosis. With a high frequency Bazex syndrome is the earliest marker of an underlying subclinical neoplasm. An early suspicion is of the outmost importance in order to perform a prompt diagnosis of an underlying malignancy. We propose a diagnostic algorithm upon suspicion of acrokeratosis paraneoplastica and review the pathogenesis of this entity.
‘Decubital candidosis’: a study of 26 cases
Authors: Nico MMS , Rivitti EA
Published: April 2005

Background  Candidoses are infections caused by yeasts of the genus Candida. ‘Decubital candidosis’ is a particular form of cutaneous candidosis that occurs on the dorsal skin of chronically bedridden patients; there are very few studies about this presentation in the medical literature.

Objective  To study the clinical, mycological and histopathological features of 26 cases of ‘decubital candidosis’ along with factors that may predispose to it.

Methods  Twenty‐six patients were included and their general characteristics and clinical lesions were carefully studied. The presence of candidosis in other organs and the occurrence of predisposing factors were searched by reviewing the medical records. Mycological studies were performed and cutaneous biopsies were taken.

Results  Median age of patients was 46 years, 11 were male and 15 were female, 25 were caucasian, one was Asian and no one was Afro‐Carribean. This finding suggests a greater resistance of Afro‐Carribean skin to this form of candidosis. The median time of hospitalization until rash occurrence was 24.8 days. Clinical lesions consisted of erythema, erosions, pustules, papules and desquamation. The most significant predisposing factors for this eruption were prolonged bedrest and broad‐spectrum antibiotics. Candidosis on other body sites was diagnosed in 10 cases and additional specific predisposing factors were observed in all 10. Potassium hydroxide examination was a reliable test for diagnosing this disease. Candida albicans was the agent in all 26 cases. Spongiform pustules were the most significant histopathological findings and yeasts were restricted to the horny layer in all biopsied cases.

Conclusion  ‘Decubital candidosis’ is probably induced by prolonged bedrest and facilitated by long‐term use of antibiotics. This cutaneous infection does not seem to predispose to systemic candidosis.
A segmental pattern of alkaline phosphatase activity within the notochord coincides with the initial formation of the vertebral bodies
Authors: Grotmol Sindre , Nordvik Kari , Kryvi Harald , Totland Geir K.
Published: April 2005

This study shows that segmental expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity by the notochord of the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) coincides with the initial mineralization of the vertebral body (chordacentrum), and precedes ALP expression by presumed somite‐derived cells external to the notochordal sheath. The early expression of ALP indicates that the notochord plays an instructive role in the segmental patterning of the vertebral column. The chordacentra form segmentally as mineralized rings within the notochordal sheath, and ALP activity spreads within the chordoblast layer from ventral to dorsal, displaying the same progression and spatial distribution as the mineralization process. No ALP activity was observed in sclerotomal mesenchyme surrounding the notochordal sheath during initial formation of the chordacentra. Our results support previous findings indicating that the chordoblasts initiate a segmental differentiation of the notochordal sheath into chordacentra and intervertebral regions.
Twist is required for establishment of the mouse coronal suture
Authors: Yoshida Toshiyuki , Phylactou Leonidas A. , Uney James B. , Ishikawa Isao , Eto Kazuhiro , Iseki Sachiko
Published: April 2005

Cranial sutures are the growth centres of the skull, enabling expansion of the skull to accommodate rapid growth of the brain. Haploinsufficiency of the human TWIST gene function causes the craniosynostosis syndrome, Saethre–Chotzen syndrome (SCS), in which premature fusion of the coronal suture is a characteristic feature. Previous studies have indicated that Twist is expressed in the coronal suture during development, and therefore that it may play an important role in development and maintenance of the suture. The Twist‐null mouse is lethal before the onset of osteogenesis, and the heterozygote exhibits coronal suture synostosis postnatally. In this study we investigated the function of Twist in the development of the mouse coronal suture, by inhibiting Twist synthesis using morpholino antisense oligonucleotides in calvarial organ culture. Decreased Twist production resulted in a narrow sutural space and fusion of bone domains within 48 h after the addition of the morpholino oligonucleotides. Proliferation activity in the sutural cells was decreased, and the expression of osteogenic marker genes such as Runx2 and Fgfr2 was up‐regulated in the developing bone domain within 4 h. These results suggest that during establishment of the suture area, Twist is required for the regulation of sutural cell proliferation and osteoblast differentiation.
Kinetics and subunit composition of NMDA receptors in respiratory‐related neurons
Authors: Paarmann I. , Frermann D. , Keller B. U. , Villmann C. , Breitinger H. G. , Hollmann M.
Published: April 2005

NMDA receptors are involved in a variety of brainstem functions. The excitatory postsynaptic NMDA currents of pre‐Bötzinger complex interneurons and hypoglossal motoneurons, which are located in the medulla oblongata, show remarkably fast deactivation kinetics of approximately 30 ms compared with NMDA receptors in other types of neurons. Because structural heterogeneity might be the basis for physiological properties, we examined the expression of six NMDA receptor subunits (NMDAR1, NR2A−2D, and NR3A) plus eight NMDR1 splice variants in pre‐Bötzinger complex, hypoglossal and, for comparison, neurons from the nucleus of the solitary tract in young rats using single cell multiplex RT–PCR. Expression of NR2A, NR2B, and NR2D was observed in all three cell types while NR3A was much more abundant in pre‐Bötzinger complex interneurons, which belong to the rhythm generator of respiratory activity. In hypoglossal neurons, the NMDAR1 splice variants NMDAR1–4a and NMDAR1–4b were found. In neurons of the nucleus of the solitary tract, instead of NMDAR1–4b, the NMDAR1–2a splice variant was detected. This differential expression of modulatory splice variants might be the molecular basis for the characteristic functional properties of NMDA receptors, as neurons expressing a special NMDAR1 splice variant at the mRNA level show fast kinetics compared with neurons lacking this splice variant.