bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Folio Respiratory Fluxomics Revealed by 13C Isotopic Labeling and H/D Isotope Effects Highlight the Noncyclic Nature of the Tricarboxylic Acid “Cycle” in Illuminated Leaves
Authors: Tcherkez Guillaume , Mahé Aline , Gauthier Paul , Mauve Caroline , Gout Elizabeth , Bligny Richard , Cornic Gabriel , Hodges Michael
Published: August 2009

While the possible importance of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle reactions for leaf photosynthesis operation has been recognized, many uncertainties remain on whether TCA cycle biochemistry is similar in the light compared with the dark. It is widely accepted that leaf day respiration and the metabolic commitment to TCA decarboxylation are down-regulated in illuminated leaves. However, the metabolic basis (i.e. the limiting steps involved in such a down-regulation) is not well known. Here, we investigated the in vivo metabolic fluxes of individual reactions of the TCA cycle by developing two isotopic methods, 13C tracing and fluxomics and the use of H/D isotope effects, with Xanthium strumarium leaves. We provide evidence that the TCA “cycle” does not work in the forward direction like a proper cycle but, rather, operates in both the reverse and forward directions to produce fumarate and glutamate, respectively. Such a functional division of the cycle plausibly reflects the compromise between two contrasted forces: (1) the feedback inhibition by NADH and ATP on TCA enzymes in the light, and (2) the need to provide pH-buffering organic acids and carbon skeletons for nitrate absorption and assimilation.
Multiple Antibiotic Resistance in Arabidopsis Is Conferred by Mutations in a Chloroplast-Localized Transport Protein
Authors: Conte Sarah , Stevenson David , Furner Ian , Lloyd Alan
Published: August 2009

Widespread antibiotic resistance is a major public health concern, and plants represent an emerging antibiotic exposure route. Recent studies indicate that crop plants fertilized with antibiotic-laden animal manure accumulate antibiotics; however, the molecular mechanisms of antibiotic entry and subcellular partitioning within plant cells remain unknown. Here, we report that mutations in the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) locus Multiple Antibiotic Resistance1 (MAR1) confer resistance, while MAR1 overexpression causes hypersensitivity to multiple aminoglycoside antibiotics. Additionally, yeast expressing MAR1 are hypersensitive to the aminoglycoside G418. MAR1 encodes a protein with 11 putative transmembrane domains with low similarity to ferroportin1 from Danio rerio. A MAR1:yellow fluorescent protein fusion localizes to the chloroplast, and chloroplasts from plants overexpressing MAR1 accumulate more of the aminoglycoside gentamicin, while mar1-1 mutant chloroplasts accumulate less than the wild type. MAR1 overexpression lines are slightly chlorotic, and chlorosis is rescued by exogenous iron. MAR1 expression is also down-regulated by low iron. These data suggest that MAR1 is a plastid transporter that is likely to be involved in cellular iron homeostasis and allows opportunistic entry of multiple antibiotics into the chloroplast.
Conservation of Lotus and Arabidopsis Basic Helix-Loop-Helix Proteins Reveals New Players in Root Hair Development
Authors: Karas Bogumil , Amyot Lisa , Johansen Christopher , Sato Shusei , Tabata Satoshi , Kawaguchi Masayoshi , Szczyglowski Krzysztof
Published: August 2009

Basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) proteins constitute a large family of transcriptional regulators in plants. Although they have been shown to play important roles in a wide variety of developmental processes, relatively few have been functionally characterized. Here, we describe the map-based cloning of the Lotus japonicus  ROOTHAIRLESS1 (LjRHL1) locus. Deleterious mutations in this locus prevent root hair development, which also aborts root hair-dependent colonization of the host root by nitrogen-fixing bacteria. We show that the LjRHL1 gene encodes a presumed bHLH transcription factor that functions in a nonredundant manner to control root hair development in L. japonicus. Homology search and cross-species complementation experiments defined three members of the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) bHLH protein family, At2g24260, At4g30980, and At5g58010, as functionally equivalent to LjRHL1. Curiously, At2g24260 and At4g30980 mRNA species accumulate independently from the known positive regulators of root hair cell fate, while all three genes act in a partially redundant manner to regulate root hair development in Arabidopsis.
Stem cell donation – What advice can be given to the donor?
Authors: Pamphilon Derwood , Siddiq Samreen , Brunskill Susan , Dorée Carolyn , Hyde Chris , Horowitz Mary , Stanworth Simon
Published: August 2009

Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is widely used to treat patients with a range of haematological and non‐haematological disorders. Both bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cell collection are associated with morbidity and, very rarely, mortality. We investigated the information that exists to adequately inform donors about the relative merits of each procedure. We carried out a systematic review analysing data from six prospective randomised controlled trials of related donors and discuss here the merits and drawbacks of this approach. Registry data mostly describes patient outcome but stem cell donor registries collect and report information on unrelated donors which could easily be extended to related donors. Further well‐designed, randomised studies are required.
The response of periphyton and submerged macrophytes to nitrogen and phosphorus loading in shallow warm lakes: a mesocosm experiment
Authors: ÖZKAN KORHAN , JEPPESEN ERIK , JOHANSSON LISELOTTE S. , BEKLIOGLU MERYEM
Published: August 2009

1. Recent experimental and field studies on temperate shallow lakes indicate that nitrogen may play a greater role in their functioning than previously thought. Several studies document that abundance and richness of submerged macrophytes, both central in shallow lake ecology, may decrease with increasing nitrogen loading, especially at high phosphorus levels. However, the role of nitrogen in warm lakes with fluctuating water regimes remains to be described in detail.

2. The effect of increasing nitrate and phosphate concentrations on submerged macrophyte growth was examined in a 3‐month mesocosm experiment conducted in summer in a shallow freshwater lake on the north western coast of Turkey with a Mediterranean climate. Twenty four field mesocosms, open to the sediment and atmosphere, were stocked with Myriophyllum spicatum shoots and small cyprinid fish. Three nitrate loadings in combination with two phosphate loadings were applied in a fourfold replicated design.

3. Mean ± SD nutrient concentrations maintained throughout the experiment were 0.55 ± 0.17, 2.2 ± 0.97, 9.2 ± 5.45 mg L−1 total nitrogen and 55 ± 19.2, 73 ± 22.9 μg L−1 total phosphorus. Mean periphyton biomass increased with increasing nutrient concentrations and peaked at the highest nitrogen and phosphorus loadings, while the mean phytoplankton biomass remained relatively low in all treatments.

4. Percent volume inhabited (% PVI) by macrophytes throughout the experiment and total macrophyte biomass at the end of the experiment did not differ among treatments. In addition to stocked M. spicatum, Ceratophyllum demersum and Potamogeton crispus appeared in the majority of the mesocosms. The plants grew continuously up to 50% PVI throughout the experiment and remained resilient to shading provided by periphyton and phytoplankton.

5. The mean summer air temperature in 2007 was 2.2 °C higher than the average of the last 32 years, which resulted in a water level decrease of 0.3 m in the mesocosms over three months. This might have counteracted the shading of submerged macrophytes provided by phytoplankton and periphyton. The results of the experiment are consistent with observations of higher macrophyte resilience to nutrient loading in Mediterranean lakes compared with northern temperate lakes.
Lithology and hydrocarbon mapping from multicomponent seismic data
Authors: Özdemir Hüseyin , Flanagan Kevin , Tyler Emma
Published: August 2009

Elastic rock properties can be estimated from prestack seismic data using amplitude variation with offset analysis. P‐wave, S‐wave and density ‘reflectivities’, or contrasts, can be inverted from angle‐band stacks. The ‘reflectivities’ are then inverted to absolute acoustic impedance, shear impedance and density. These rock properties can be used to map reservoir parameters through all stages of field development and production. When P‐wave contrast is small, or gas clouds obscure reservoir zones, multicomponent ocean‐bottom recording of converted‐waves (P to S or Ps) data provides reliable mapping of reservoir boundaries.

Angle‐band stacks of multicomponent P‐wave (Pz) and Ps data can also be inverted jointly. In this paper Aki‐Richards equations are used without simplifications to invert angle‐band stacks to ‘reflectivities’. This enables the use of reflection seismic data beyond 30° of incident angles compared to the conventional amplitude variation with offset analysis. It, in turn, provides better shear impedance and density estimates. An important input to amplitude variation with offset analysis is theVs/Vpratio. Conventional methods use a constant or a time‐varyingVs/Vpmodel. Here, a time‐ and space‐varying model is used during the computation of the ‘reflectivities’. TheVs/Vpmodel is generated using well log data and picked horizons. For multicomponent data applications, the latter model can also be generated from processingVs/Vpmodels and available well data.

Reservoir rock properties such as λρ, μρ, Poisson's ratio and bulk modulus can be computed from acoustic impedance, shear impedance and density for pore fill and lithology identification. λ and μ are the Lamé constants and ρ is density. These estimations can also be used for a more efficient log property mapping.Vp/Vsratio or Poisson's ratio, λρ and weighted stacks, such as the one computed from λρ and λ/μ, are good gas/oil and oil/water contact indicators, i.e., pore fill indicators, while μρ mainly indicates lithology. μρ is also affected by pressure changes.

Results from a multicomponent data set are used to illustrate mapping of gas, oil and water saturation and lithology in a Tertiary sand/shale setting. Whilst initial log crossplot analysis suggested that pore fill discrimination may be possible, the inversion was not successful in revealing fluid effects. However, rock properties computed from acoustic impedance, shear impedance and density estimates provided good lithology indicators; pore fill identification was less successful. Neural network analysis using computed rock properties provided good indication of sand/shale distribution away from the existing wells and complemented the results depicted from individual rock property inversions.
Changes in fire regime break the legacy lock on successional trajectories in Alaskan boreal forest
Authors: JOHNSTONE JILL F. , HOLLINGSWORTH TERESA N. , CHAPIN F. STUART , MACK MICHELLE C.
Published: August 2009

Predicting plant community responses to changing environmental conditions is a key element of forecasting and mitigating the effects of global change. Disturbance can play an important role in these dynamics, by initiating cycles of secondary succession and generating opportunities for communities of long‐lived organisms to reorganize in alternative configurations. This study used landscape‐scale variations in environmental conditions, stand structure, and disturbance from an extreme fire year in Alaska to examine how these factors affected successional trajectories in boreal forests dominated by black spruce. Because fire intervals in interior Alaska are typically too short to allow relay succession, the initial cohorts of seedlings that recruit after fire largely determine future canopy composition. Consequently, in a dynamically stable landscape, postfire tree seedling composition should resemble that of the prefire forest stands, with little net change in tree composition after fire. Seedling recruitment data from 90 burned stands indicated that postfire establishment of black spruce was strongly linked to environmental conditions and was highest at sites that were moist and had high densities of prefire spruce. Although deciduous broadleaf trees were absent from most prefire stands, deciduous trees recruited from seed at many sites and were most abundant at sites where the fires burned severely, consuming much of the surface organic layer. Comparison of pre‐ and postfire tree composition in the burned stands indicated that the expected trajectory of black spruce self‐replacement was typical only at moist sites that burned with low fire severity. At severely burned sites, deciduous trees dominated the postfire tree seedling community, suggesting these sites will follow alternative, deciduous‐dominated trajectories of succession. Increases in the severity of boreal fires with climate warming may catalyze shifts to an increasingly deciduous‐dominated landscape, substantially altering landscape dynamics and ecosystem services in this part of the boreal forest.
The influence of elevated temperature, elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration and water stress on net photosynthesis of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) at northern, central and southern sites in its native range
Authors: WERTIN TIMOTHY M. , MCGUIRE MARY ANNE , TESKEY ROBERT O.
Published: August 2009

We investigated the effect of elevated [CO2] (700 μmol mol−1), elevated temperature (+2 °C above ambient) and decreased soil water availability on net photosynthesis (Anet) and water relations of one‐year old potted loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) seedlings grown in treatment chambers with high fertility at three sites along a north‐south transect covering a large portion of the species native range. At each location (Blairsville, Athens and Tifton, GA) we constructed four treatment chambers and randomly assigned each chamber one of four treatments: ambient [CO2] and ambient temperature, elevated [CO2] and ambient temperature, ambient [CO2] and elevated temperature, or elevated [CO2] and elevated temperature. Within each chamber half of the seedlings were well watered and half received much less water (1/4 that of the well watered).

Measurements of net photosynthesis (Anet), stomatal conductance (gs), leaf water potential and leaf fluorescence were made in June and September, 2008. We observed a significant increase in Anet in response to elevated [CO2] regardless of site or temperature treatment in June and September. An increase in air temperature of over 2 °C had no significant effect on Anet at any of the sites in June or September despite over a 6 °C difference in mean annual temperature between the sites. Decreased water availability significantly reduced Anet in all treatments at each site in June. The effects of elevated [CO2] and temperature on gs followed a similar trend. The temperature, [CO2] and water treatments did not significantly affect leaf water potential or chlorophyll fluorescence. Our findings suggest that predicted increases in [CO2] will significantly increase Anet, while predicted increases in air temperature will have little effect on Anet across the native range of loblolly pine. Potential decreases in precipitation will likely cause a significant reduction in Anet, though this may be mitigated by increased [CO2].
Mutations in the cinnamate 4‐hydroxylase gene impact metabolism, growth and development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Schilmiller Anthony L. , Stout Jake , Weng Jing‐Ke , Humphreys John , Ruegger Max O. , Chapple Clint
Published: August 2009

The initial reactions of the phenylpropanoid pathway convert phenylalanine to p‐coumaroyl CoA, a branch point metabolite from which many phenylpropanoids are made. Although the second enzyme of this pathway, cinnamic acid 4‐hydroxylase (C4H), is well characterized, a mutant for the gene encoding this enzyme has not yet, to our knowledge, been identified, presumably because knock‐out mutations in this gene would have severe phenotypes. This work describes the characterization of an allelic series of Arabidopsis reduced epidermal fluorescence 3 (ref3) mutants, each of which harbor mis‐sense mutations in C4H (At2g30490). Heterologous expression of the mutant proteins in Escherichia coli yields enzymes that exhibit P420 spectra, indicative of mis‐folded proteins, or have limited ability to bind substrate, indicating that the mutations we have identified affect protein stability and/or enzyme function. In agreement with the early position of C4H in phenylpropanoid metabolism, ref3 mutant plants accumulate decreased levels of several different classes of phenylpropanoid end‐products, and exhibit reduced lignin deposition and altered lignin monomer content. Furthermore, these plants accumulate a novel hydroxycinnamic ester, cinnamoylmalate, which is not found in the wild type. The decreased C4H activity in ref3 also causes pleiotropic phenotypes, including dwarfism, male sterility and the development of swellings at branch junctions. Together, these observations indicate that C4H function is critical to the normal biochemistry and development of Arabidopsis.
Recombineering and stable integration of the Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae 61 hrp/hrc cluster into the genome of the soil bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens Pf0‐1
Authors: Thomas William J. , Thireault Caitlin A. , Kimbrel Jeffrey A. , Chang Jeff H.
Published: August 2009

Many Gram‐negative bacteria use a type III secretion system (T3SS) to establish associations with their hosts. The T3SS is a conduit for direct injection of type‐III effector proteins into host cells, where they manipulate the host for the benefit of the infecting bacterium. For plant‐associated pathogens, the variations in number and amino acid sequences of type‐III effectors, as well as their functional redundancy, make studying type‐III effectors challenging. To mitigate this challenge, we developed a stable delivery system for individual or defined sets of type‐III effectors into plant cells. We used recombineering and Tn5‐mediated transposition to clone and stably integrate, respectively, the complete hrp/hrc region from Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae 61 into the genome of the soil bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens Pf0‐1. We describe our development of Effector‐to‐Host Analyzer (EtHAn), and demonstrate its utility for studying effectors for their in planta functions.
Tethering of ferredoxin:NADP+ oxidoreductase to thylakoid membranes is mediated by novel chloroplast protein TROL
Authors: Jurić Snježana , Hazler‐Pilepić Kroata , Tomašić Ana , Lepeduš Hrvoje , Jeličić Branka , Puthiyaveetil Sujith , Bionda Tihana , Vojta Lea , Allen John F. , Schleiff Enrico , Fulgosi Hrvoje
Published: August 2009

Working in tandem, two photosystems in the chloroplast thylakoid membranes produce a linear electron flow from H2O to NADP+. Final electron transfer from ferredoxin to NADP+ is accomplished by a flavoenzyme ferredoxin:NADP+ oxidoreductase (FNR). Here we describe TROL (thylakoid rhodanese‐like protein), a nuclear‐encoded component of thylakoid membranes that is required for tethering of FNR and sustaining efficient linear electron flow (LEF) in vascular plants. TROL consists of two distinct modules; a centrally positioned rhodanese‐like domain and a C‐terminal hydrophobic FNR binding region. Analysis of Arabidopsis mutant lines indicates that, in the absence of TROL, relative electron transport rates at high‐light intensities are severely lowered accompanied with significant increase in non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ). Thus, TROL might represent a missing thylakoid membrane docking site for a complex between FNR, ferredoxin and NADP+. Such association might be necessary for maintaining photosynthetic redox poise and enhancement of the NPQ.
Queer Quit: Gay smokers’ perspectives on a culturally specific smoking cessation service
Authors: Schwappach David L.B.
Published: August 2009

Background  The prevalence of smoking is high among gay males. The need for culturally specific support has been acknowledged, but little is known about gay men’s perspectives on such adapted interventions.

Objective  To investigate smoking and intention to quit in gay smokers and to explore their attitudes towards a gay‐specific smoking cessation programme.

Design  Quantitative survey and focus groups.

Setting and participants  A total of 325 gay smokers living in Zurich (Switzerland) completed an anonymous survey. Thirteen males participated in two focus groups, theoretically sampled to reflect heterogeneity in terms of age, HIV serostatus and smoking histories. Participants were personally recruited at a variety of events and through advertisements.

Results  Responders reported high consumption of cigarettes, and every second man stated that more than half of his gay friends smoke regularly. The majority planned their quit within the next 6 months. Idealizing attitudes towards smoking were very common. Men stated strong preferences towards a culturally adapted cessation programme for gay men. Higher age, high nicotine dependence, intention to quit, smoking stereotypes and fears for weight gain were significant predictors for interest in participation in the programme. Qualitative results indicate that men felt torn between their wish for support, bonding, and community alternatives to the ‘smoking gay’ environment and fears for failure and loss of reputation.

Conclusions  Gay men reported likely use of a gay‐specific intervention. Such interventions may offer support in abstaining from smoking, without abstaining from gay social life. Health‐care providers play an important role in communicating the serious threats caused by smoking to gay men.
Exciting but exhausting: experiences with participatory research with chronically ill adolescents
Authors: Van Staa AnneLoes , Jedeloo Susan , Latour Jos M , Trappenburg Margo J
Published: August 2009

Background  Adolescents with chronic conditions are major users of paediatric hospitals, but seldom participate in the evaluation of services or in research. Little is known about the usefulness of the participatory approach in adolescent health research.

Objective  To evaluate the feasibility, benefits and limitations of a participatory research (PR) project involving chronically ill adolescents as co‐researchers.

Design, setting and participants  Nine adolescents, aged 15–17 years, acted as co‐researchers in a hospital‐based PR project. They co‐developed an interview protocol and during a disco party held for this purpose interviewed each other and 25 fellow patients (12–19 years). They provided advice on the draft report and participated in the dissemination of the results, but were not involved in the design of the project or analysis of results.

Results  Involving adolescents in participatory health research was feasible and appreciated by researchers and youth alike, but had its drawbacks too. The peer‐research attracted few participants, the interviews lacked depth and did not yield substantial new insights. Maintaining a high level of participation of the chronically ill co‐researchers also proved difficult.

Conclusions  Adolescents with chronic conditions like to have a say in the design and evaluation of hospital services. But their participation as co‐researchers demands ample resources from all parties involved without automatically improving research quality. PR does not seem the most effective and efficient way to make services more responsive. We therefore recommend further exploration of other creative and sustainable ways for involving youth in health‐care service development and innovation.
Comparability of a hand‐held nitric oxide analyser with online and offline chemiluminescence‐based nitric oxide measurement
Authors: Schiller Barbara , Hammer Juerg , Barben Juerg , Trachsel Daniel
Published: August 2009

Practicability is crucial for successful implementation of fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measurement into asthma management. The study aimed at comparing a conventional chemiluminescence NO analyser (EcoMedics®) with a hand‐held device (NIOX MINO®) and offline FeNO measurement using a commercially available system in an unselected cohort of children aged 6–16 yr. A secondary objective was to confirm FeNO stability over time in 15 samples from adult volunteers obtained using the offline system. Sixty‐six children (mean ± s.d. age 11.8 ± 3.0 yr) underwent single breath FeNO measurement in triplets with each device. Offline collected FeNO was measured after offline breath collection into a Mylar balloon and subsequent analysis using the chemiluminescence NO analyser. Variability and between‐method agreement were assessed, and stability over time within the Mylar balloons was tested by repeated hourly measurements. FeNO levels ranged from 2 to 113 p.p.b. Intra‐class correlation was excellent (r = 0.98, p < 0.001 for each pair). Bland–Altman plots and back‐transformation of logarithmic mean differences revealed fair agreement between methods. Stability over time was confirmed over 10 h both at room temperature and when stored under cooling conditions. FeNO values obtained using the chemiluminescence NO analyser, the portable NIOX MINO® system and the offline collection technique show between‐method agreement within clinically acceptable range.
Brain death and its implications for management of the potential organ donor
Authors: BUGGE J. F.
Published: August 2009

The systemic physiologic changes that occur during and after brain death affect all organs suitable for transplantation. Major changes occur in the cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine, and immunological systems, and, if untreated may soon result in cardiovascular collapse and somatic death. Understanding these complex physiologic changes is mandatory for developing effective strategies for donor resuscitation and management in such a way that the functional integrity of potentially transplantable organs is maintained. This review elucidates these physiological changes and their consequences, and based on these consequences the rationale behind current medical management of brain‐dead organ donors is discussed.
Measurements of functional residual capacity during intensive care treatment: the technical aspects and its possible clinical applications
Authors: HEINZE H. , EICHLER W.
Published: August 2009

Direct measurement of lung volume, i.e. functional residual capacity (FRC) has been recommended for monitoring during mechanical ventilation. Mostly due to technical reasons, FRC measurements have not become a routine monitoring tool, but promising techniques have been presented. We performed a literature search of studies with the key words ‘functional residual capacity’ or ‘end expiratory lung volume’ and summarize the physiology and patho‐physiology of FRC measurements in ventilated patients, describe the existing techniques for bedside measurement, and provide an overview of the clinical questions that can be addressed using an FRC assessment. The wash‐in or wash‐out of a tracer gas in a multiple breath maneuver seems to be best applicable at bedside, and promising techniques for nitrogen or oxygen wash‐in/wash‐out with reasonable accuracy and repeatability have been presented. Studies in ventilated patients demonstrate that FRC can easily be measured at bedside during various clinical settings, including positive end‐expiratory pressure optimization, endotracheal suctioning, prone position, and the weaning from mechanical ventilation. Alveolar derecruitment can easily be monitored and improvements of FRC without changes of the ventilatory setting could indicate alveolar recruitment. FRC seems to be insensitive to over‐inflation of already inflated alveoli. Growing evidence suggests that FRC measurements, in combination with other parameters such as arterial oxygenation and respiratory compliance, could provide important information on the pulmonary situation in critically ill patients. Further studies are needed to define the exact role of FRC in monitoring and perhaps guiding mechanical ventilation.
Glutamine administration in patients undergoing cardiac surgery and the influence on blood glutathione levels
Authors: ENGEL J. M. , MÜHLING J. , KWAPISZ M. , HEIDT M.
Published: August 2009

Background: Cardiac surgery with an extracorporeal circulation cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is characterized by an oxidative stress response. Glutathione (GSH) belongs to the major antioxidative defense. In metabolic stress, glutamine (GLN) may be the rate‐limiting factor of GSH synthesis. Decreased GLN plasma levels were observed after various critical states. We evaluated, in patients undergoing open heart surgery with CPB, the effects of a peri‐operative GLN supplementation on GSH in whole blood and assessed their influence on the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score and the intensive care unit length of stay.

Methods: In this prospective, randomized, double‐blinded study, we included 60 patients (age older than 70 years, ejection fraction <40% or mitral valve replacement) undergoing an elective cardiac surgery with CPB. We randomly assigned each subject to receive an infusion with either GLN (0.5 g/kg/day, group 1) or an isonitrogeneous, isocaloric, isovolemic amino acids solution (group 2) or saline (group 3).

Results: From the first post‐operative day GLN plasma levels in group 1 were significantly increased compared with the other groups. With saline GSH the levels decreased significantly post‐operatively compared with GLN. We observed a significant correlation between GLN delivery and GSH levels.

Conclusions: A peri‐operative high‐dose GLN infusion increased plasma GLN concentrations and maintained the GSH levels after cardiac surgery with CPB.
Sparing the larynx during gynecological laparoscopy: a randomized trial comparing the LMA Supreme™ and the ETT
Authors: ABDI W. , AMATHIEU R. , ADHOUM A. , PONCELET C. , SLAVOV V. , KAMOUN W. , COMBES X. , DHONNEUR G.
Published: August 2009

Background: We designed a prospective randomized single‐blind study to compare efficiency and post‐operative upper airway morbidity when the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) Supreme™ is used as an alternative to the endotracheal tube (ETT).

Methods: One hundred and thirty‐eight elective pelvic laparoscopic ASA I–II female patients were assigned to receive either the LMA Supreme® or the ETT for airway management. Balanced anesthesia and ventilation techniques were standardized to control end‐tidal CO2 and BIS value in the range 4.5–5 kPa and 40–50, respectively, and to maintain adequate hemodynamic stability. A single surgeon blinded to the airway management technique performed all surgical procedures. The ventilation efficiency of each airway was evaluated. Anesthesia‐ and surgery‐related times were calculated and anesthesia details were recorded. Post‐operative pain and pharyngolaryngeal morbidity were measured in a blind fashion using a numerical rating scale (NRS) (0–100).

Results: Surgery duration was similar in both groups. Airway management duration was shorter with the LMA Supreme®. Post‐operative pharyngolaryngeal morbidity incidence and all symptoms' intensity were significantly increased after ETT as compared with LMA Supreme® anesthesia. At the end of the PACU stage, the incidence and mean NRS of post‐operative hoarseness were reduced when LMA Supreme® was used as an alternative to the ETT (16% vs. 47%; P<0.01 and 9 vs. 19, P<0.01, respectively).

Conclusion: We demonstrated that choosing an LMA Supreme® was an efficient pharyngolaryngeal morbidity‐sparing strategy. Moreover, we showed that the LMA Supreme® and the ETT were equally effective airways for a routine gynecological laparoscopy procedure.
Timing of induced resistance in a clonal plant network
Authors: Gómez Sara , Van Dijk William , Stuefer Josef F.
Published: August 2009

After local herbivory, plants can activate defense traits both at the damaged site and in undamaged plant parts such as in connected ramets of clonal plants. Since defense induction has costs, a mismatch in time and space between defense activation and herbivore feeding might result in negative consequences for plant fitness. A short time lag between attack and defense activation is important to ensure efficient protection of the plant. Additionally, the duration of induced defense production once the attack has stopped is also relevant in assessing the cost–benefit balance of inducible defenses, which will depend on the absence or presence of subsequent attacks. In this study we quantified the timing of induced responses in ramet networks of the stoloniferous herb Trifolium repens after local damage by Mamestra brassicae larvae. We studied the activation time of systemic defense induction in undamaged ramets and the decay time of the response after local attack. Undamaged ramets became defense‐induced 38–51 h after the initial attack. Defense induction was measured as a reduction in leaf palatability. Defense induction lasted at least 28 days, and there was strong genotypic variation in the duration of this response. Ramets formed after the initial attack were also defense‐induced, implying that induced defense can extend to new ramet generations, thereby contributing to protection of plant tissue that is both very vulnerable to herbivores and most valuable in terms of future plant growth and fitness.
Effects of environmental parameters and irrigation on the turgor pressure of banana plants measured using the non‐invasive, online monitoring leaf patch clamp pressure probe
Authors: Zimmermann U. , Rüger S. , Shapira O. , Westhoff M. , Wegner L. H. , Reuss R. , Gessner P. , Zimmermann G. , Israeli Y. , Zhou A. , Schwartz A. , Bamberg E. , Zimmermann D.
Published: August 2009

Turgor pressure provides a sensitive indicator for irrigation scheduling. Leaf turgor pressure of Musa acuminate was measured by using the so‐called leaf patch clamp pressure probe, i.e. by application of an external, magnetically generated and constantly retained clamp pressure to a leaf patch and determination of the attenuated output pressure Pp that is highly correlated with the turgor pressure. Real‐time recording of Pp values was made using wireless telemetric transmitters, which send the data to a receiver base station where data are logged and transferred to a GPRS modem linked to an Internet server. Probes functioned over several months under field and laboratory conditions without damage to the leaf patch. Measurements showed that the magnetic‐based probe could monitor very sensitively changes in turgor pressure induced by changes in microclimate (temperature, relative humidity, irradiation and wind) and irrigation. Irrigation effects could clearly be distinguished from environmental effects. Interestingly, oscillations in stomatal aperture, which occurred frequently below turgor pressures of 100 kPa towards noon at high transpiration or at high wind speed, were reflected in the Pp values. The period of pressure oscillations was comparable with the period of oscillations in transpiration and photosynthesis. Multiple probe readings on individual leaves and/or on several leaves over the entire height of the plants further emphasised the great impact of this non‐invasive turgor pressure sensor system for elucidating the dynamics of short‐ and long‐distance water transport in higher plants.
Characterisation of phenol oxidase and peroxidase from maize silk
Authors: Šukalović V. Hadži‐Tašković , Veljović‐Jovanović S. , Maksimović J. Dragišić , Maksimović V. , Pajić Z.
Published: August 2009

Silk of some maize genotypes contains a high level of phenolics that undergo enzymatic oxidation to form quinones, which condense among themselves or with proteins to form brown pigments. Two phenolic oxidizing enzymes, peroxidase (POD; EC 1.11.1.7) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO; EC 1.10.3.1), from maize (Zea mays L.) silk were characterised with respect to their preferred substrate, different isoforms and specific effectors. One browning silk sample with high, and two non‐browning samples with low phenolic content were investigated. Although POD oxidizes a wide range of phenolic substrates in vitro, its activity rate was independent of silk phenolic content. PPO activity, detected with o‐diphenolic substrates, was abundant only in browning silk, and low or absent in non‐browning silk. Pollination increased POD but not PPO activity. Isoelectric‐focusing (IEF) and specific staining for POD and PPO showed a high degree of polymorphism that varied with silk origin. The IEF pattern of POD revealed a number of anionic and several cationic isoenzymes, with the most pronounced having neutral pI 7 and a basic isoform with pI 10. Detected isoforms of PPO were anionic, except for one neutral form found only in browning silk, and occupied positions different from those of POD. Different inhibitory effects of NaN3, EDTA, KCN, and L‐cysteine, as well as different impacts of a variety of cations on the oxidation of chlorogenic acid, mediated by PPO or POD, were detected. The findings are discussed in terms of a possible roles of these enzymes in defence and pollination.
Effects of Bisphosphonate on the Endochondral Bone Formation of the Mandibular Condyle
Authors: Kim M. S. , Jung S. Y. , Kang J. H. , Kim H. J. , Ko H. M. , Jung J. Y. , Koh J. T. , Kim W. J. , Kim S. M. , Lee E. J. , Kim S. H.
Published: August 2009

The development of the mandibular condylar cartilage is important for the overall growth of the mandible. However, there have been a few researches into medical approaches aimed at controlling condylar growth. This study examined the effects of bisphosphonate on the growth of the condylar cartilage. Alendronate (3.5 mg/kg/week) was administered to postnatal day 1 SD rats for 7 and 10 days. The thickness of each chondrocyte layer and the level of MMP‐9 expression were measured. The anteroposterior diameter of the developing condyle was unaffected by the alendronate treatment for 7 days (P > 0.05). The total thickness of the cartilage layers was also unaffected by the treatment for 7 days (P > 0.05). In particular, there was no change in the thickness of the perichondrium and reserve cell layer at the measured condylar regions (P > 0.05). However, the thickness of the proliferating cell layer was reduced significantly, whereas the thickness of hypertrophied cartilage layer was increased (P < 0.05). The number of chondroclasts engaged in hypertrophied cartilage resorption was reduced significantly by the alendronate treatment (P < 0.05). The level of MMP‐9 expression was reduced at both the transcription and translation levels by the alendronate treatment for 7 and 10 days. These results indicate that alendronate (>3.5 mg/kg/week) inhibits the longitudinal growth of the mandibular condyle by inhibiting chondrocyte proliferation and the resorption of hypertrophied cartilage for ossification.
Initial Development of Bovine Placentation (Bos indicus) from the Point of View of the Allantois and Amnion
Authors: Assis Neto A. C. , Santos E. C. C. , Pereira F. T. V. , Miglino M. A.
Published: August 2009

The aim of this study was to perform a morphological characterization of the initial bovine placental development, between 20 and 70 days post‐insemination (p.i.), with emphasis on the differentiation of the allantois and amnion. After collection, the conceptuses were dissected, macroscopically measured and photographically documented. The extraembryonic membranes were cut into fragments measuring 5 cm2, and then fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde for analysis using light microscopy, and in 2.5% glutaraldehyde for use in scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The extraembryonic and fetal membranes presented variable degrees of development throughout the periods analysed. The macroscopic appearance of vascularization of the allantois, its attempt to merge with the chorium and the effective appearance of the first cotyledons in development were the events observed from 30 to 40 days of pregnancy. The measurements of the amnion increased gradually as gestation developed. The allantoic epithelia presented cellular dimorphism from 20 to 25 days of pregnancy, but was shown to be immature from 60 to 70 days of pregnancy.
Structural Differences in the Umbilical Vein Wall after Full‐Term and Pre‐term Delivery
Authors: Bagyánszki M. , Novák Z. , Bódi N. , Orvos H. , Pál A. , Fekete É.
Published: August 2009

With the exception of its most proximal segment, the human umbilical cord lacks innervation. It might be expected, therefore, that a paracrine effect through the direct contact between the smooth muscle cells and the endothelium may be particularly important in the control of the fetoplacental circulation. In this study, electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry were applied to examine umbilical veins immediately after full‐term and pre‐term delivery. The smooth muscle cells in the upper layer of the tunica media exhibited long, foot‐like processes with c‐kit immunoreactivity. In the umbilical vein of full‐term neonates more than 50% of these cell processes display a normal ultrastructure and they were closely associated with the lamina elastica interna. Whereas in pre‐term infants more than 60% of these cell processes exhibit signs of severe shrinkage and detachedness from the lamina elastica interna. At the same time, the high level of immunoreactivity of the endothelial cells as regards the proapoptotic gene product Bax in pre‐term infants is indicative of an enhanced apoptotic process in these cells.
The Optimization for Crop Planning and Some Advances for Water‐Saving Crop Planning in the Semiarid Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Wang Y. B. , Wu P. T. , Zhao X. N. , Li J. L. , Lv L. , Shao H. B.
Published: August 2009

The establishment of water‐saving crop planning is an inevitable choice of the water‐saving agriculture for the water‐deficiency region in the arid and semiarid Loess Plateau of China and the world. The water‐saving crop planning refers to the planting structure that centres the adjustment of the crop’s adaptation to water, the optimization of temporal and spatial layout for crops, the local natural resources, marketing resources, human resources and financial input to enable region or basin with limited water resources to achieve the maximum economic, social and ecological benefits of planting industry under certain technology and economy. After the analysis on the research progress of optimization theory, optimization goals, optimization methods of water‐saving cultivation structure and macro‐control measures, it is pointed out that the main deficiencies of the current research of water‐saving cultivation pattern optimization are lacking of a strong theoretical basis, and the immaturity of optimization technologies. The future crucial research direction will focus on five aspects such as the special optimization theory system, the division methods by studying the watershed unit and using 3S technology, optimization model based on multi‐objective evolutionary algorithm, evaluation of rationality and macro‐control measures on the basis of the public participation.
Improved quality management to enhance the efficacy of the sterile insect technique for lepidopteran pests
Authors: Simmons G. S. , Suckling D. M. , Carpenter J. E. , Addison M. F. , Dyck V. A. , Vreysen M. J. B.
Published: August 2009

Lepidoptera are among the most severe pests of food and fibre crops in the world and are mainly controlled using broad spectrum insecticides. This does not lead to environmentally sustainable control and farmers are demanding alternative control tools which are both effective and friendly to the environment. The sterile insect technique (SIT), within an area‐wide integrated pest management (AW‐IPM) approach, has proven to be a powerful control tactic for the creation of pest‐free areas or areas of low pest prevalence. Improving the quality of laboratory‐reared moths would increase the efficacy of released sterile moths applied in AW‐IPM programmes that integrate the (SIT). Factors that might affect the quality and field performance of released sterile moths are identified and characterized in this study. Some tools and methods to measure, predict and enhance moth quality are described such as tests for moth quality, female moth trapping systems, ‘smart’ traps, machine vision for recording behaviour, marking techniques, and release technologies. Methods of enhancing rearing systems are discussed with a view to selecting and preserving useful genetic traits that improve field performance.
Medullary thyroid carcinoma with poor differentiation and atypical radiographic pattern of metastasis
Authors: Hung Wei‐Wen , Wang Chuan‐Sheng , Tsai Kun‐Bow , Ou‐Yang Fu , Shin Shyi‐Jang , Hsiao Pi‐Jung
Published: August 2009

A diagnosis of sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is complicated. On first diagnosis it may present with distant metastasis. There has been inconsistency regarding metastatic MTC tissue expression of calcitonin, its tumor marker. Adding to the difficulty is the fact that the radiographic pattern of pulmonary metastasis from MTC may vary substantially among patients. Herein is reported the case of a 73‐year‐old man who presented with two ill‐defined pulmonary opacities, clinically resembling primary lung carcinoma. MTC was diagnosed on histopathology of tissue obtained from a total thyroidectomy. The pulmonary biopsy specimens were confirmed to be MTC metastasis on positive immunohistochemical staining of chromogranin‐A and synaptophysin, even though only a few cells were stained for calcitonin. To the authors' knowledge this is the first reported case of MTC presenting initially as complex pulmonary metastasis with weakened expression of calcitonin in the metastatic lesion.
Multiple IgG4‐related sclerosing lesions in the maxillary sinus, parotid gland and nasal septum
Authors: Ishida Mitsuaki , Hotta Machiko , Kushima Ryoji , Shibayama Masayuki , Shimizu Takeshi , Okabe Hidetoshi
Published: August 2009

IgG4‐related sclerosing disease is recognized as a distinct clinicopathological entity. It is well known that this disease can occur in the salivary, lacrimal and pituitary glands, in the head and neck region. The nasal cavity is an extremely rare site of involvement of IgG4‐related sclerosing disease. Herein is reported a case of multiple IgG4‐related sclerosing lesions in the maxillary sinus, parotid gland and nasal septum. A 73‐year‐old Japanese man presented with nasal obstruction and tumors of the right maxillary sinus and parotid gland were detected, after which resections of these tumors were performed. One year after the last surgery, he noted swelling of the nasal septum, and the tumor was resected. These three tumors had similar histopathology, such as conspicuous fibrosclerotic changes with dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltration and occasional obliterative phlebitis. Immunohistochemistry indicated abundant IgG4‐positive plasma cell infiltration and high ratios of IgG4‐positive/IgG‐positive plasma cells (>70%) in all three lesions. The diagnosis of multiple IgG4‐related sclerosing lesions was made. The present case suggests that IgG4‐related sclerosing lesion can occur in the maxillary sinus and nasal septum, and represents an extension of the spectrum of IgG4‐related sclerosing disease.
Metaplastic breast carcinoma with melanocytic differentiation
Authors: Bendic Antonia , Bozic Maja , Durdov Merica G.
Published: August 2009

Metaplastic carcinoma of the breast is a rare heterogeneous malignancy, accounting for <1% of all invasive breast carcinomas, in which adenocarcinoma is found to coexist with an admixture of spindle, squamous, chondroid or bone‐forming neoplastic cells. Metaplastic breast carcinoma composed of both epithelial and melanocytic elements is rare, and only seven cases have been reported so far. Reported herein is the case of a 38‐year‐old woman with a nodular mass in her left breast suspicious of malignancy, discovered during routine ultrasound examination. After histological and immunohistochemical examination of the resected tumor mass, initial diagnosis was collision tumor: ductal invasive carcinoma and metastatic melanoma. The patient underwent quadrantectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. At 6 years follow up the patient was alive and healthy, without local recurrence or metastases. After revising slides and the literature, in addition to patient follow up, it was concluded that this case represents metaplastic carcinoma with melanocytic differentiation.