bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of emamectin benzoate against sea lice infestations of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L.: evaluation in the absence of an untreated contemporary control
Authors: Gustafson L , Ellis S , Robinson T , Marenghi F , Endris R
Published: October 2006

The efficacy of emamectin benzoate (SLICE®) against sea lice infestations of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., is typically assessed using untreated fish, or fish treated with alternative therapeutants, as controls. The State of Maine, USA, is currently under active management for the OIE‐notifiable pathogen, infectious salmon anaemia virus (ISAV); consequently, neither control group is feasible in this region. Untreated salmon risk extensive damage from the ectoparasites, and threaten to increase vector‐borne exposure or susceptibility of farms to ISAV; and the only treatment presently available in Maine is SLICE®. However, because sea lice infestations are unlikely to resolve spontaneously, and response to treatment occurs within weeks, use of a pretreatment baseline is a reasonable alternative for confirmatory studies. We evaluated SLICE® efficacy on Atlantic salmon farms in Cobscook Bay 2002–2005, in the absence of untreated controls, using pretreatment lice loads as a reference for calculation. Maximum efficacy ranged from 68% to 100% reduction from initial levels. Time‐to‐maximum efficacy ranged from 1 to 8 weeks after treatment initiation. Efficacy duration, measured between first reduction and first progressive rise in counts, ranged from 4 to 16 weeks.
Identification and Characterization of Secretagogin Promoter Activity
Authors: Skovhus K. V. , Bergholdt R. , Erichsen C. , Sparre T. , Nerup J. , Karlsen A. E. , Pociot F.
Published: October 2006

Secretagogin is a newly identified calcium‐binding protein selectively expressed in neuroendocrine tissue and pancreatic β‐cells. The function of secretagogin is unknown, but it has been suggested in β‐cells to influence calcium‐influx, insulin secretion and proliferation, and has been observed downregulated in diabetes‐prone BB rat islets exposed to cytokines. In the present study, we identified and characterized promoter activity of a human 1498 bp sequence upstream the transcription start site. The promoter sequence showed subtle but significant regulation by glucose within the normo‐physiological range. Glucose also led to changes in expression of secretagogin protein in INS‐1e cells, but not in primary cells from non‐diabetes‐prone Wistar Furth rats. No effects of cytokines neither on promoter activity nor protein expression were observed. The promoter region was furthermore screened by direct sequencing, and 11 polymorphisms were identified. Genotyping in a large homogenous Type 1 diabetes (T1D) family collection did not reveal association with T1D.
The allergy‐associated chemokine receptors CCR3 and CCR5 can be inactivated by the modified chemokine NNY‐CCL11
Authors: Manns J. , Rieder S. , Escher S. , Eilers B. , Forssmann W.‐G. , Elsner J. , Forssmann U.
Published: October 2006

Background: CC chemokine ligand 11 (CCL11) is the outstanding member of all described CC chemokine receptor 3 (CCR3) ligands and is shown to be selective for this receptor. However, it also activates CCR5 but only in the micromolar range. Thein vivoactivity of CCL11 is expected to be temporally restricted, as it is degraded by specific proteases such as the dipeptidyl‐peptidase IV (DP4), also termed CD26. Based on the approach to inactivate chemokine receptors in allergic disease models as has been demonstrated for DP4‐resistantn‐nonanoyl (NNY)‐CCL14 and for amino‐oxypentane (AOP)‐CCL5, it is tempting to study similar compounds derived from CCL11.

Methods: Synthesis of NNY‐CCL11 was performed and it was characterized for biological functions in human and mouse eosinophils as well as in cell lines stably transfected either with human CCR3 or CCR5. Resistance to DP4 treatment was also investigated.

Results: The functional activities of NNY‐CCL11 mediated via CCR3 show an almost identical pattern to CCL11 with respect to intracellular calcium mobilization and CCR3 internalization. N‐terminal cleavage of CCL11 by preincubation with DP4 results in a reduced capacity to internalize CCR3, while preincubation of NNY‐CCL11 shows no influence. In contrast to CCL11, NNY‐CCL11 also activates CCR5+cell lines and human monocytes in the nanomolar range, being about 100 times more potent than CCL11.

Conclusions: n‐Nonanoyl‐CCL11 represents a compound with dual activity restricted to CCR3 and CCR5. Because of its receptor‐inactivating capacity and stability against DP4 degradation, NNY‐CCL11 is a suitable tool for the decoding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of allergic diseases.
Wilms’ tumor and novel TRIM37 mutations in an Australian patient with mulibrey nanism
Authors: Hämäläinen RH , Mowat D , Gabbett MT , O’Brien TA , Kallijärvi J , Lehesjoki A‐E
Published: October 2006

Mulibrey nanism is a rare autosomal recessive growth disorder with prenatal onset, including occasional progressive cardiopathy, characteristic facial features, failure of sexual maturation, insulin resistance with type 2 diabetes, and an increased risk for Wilms’ tumor. Mulibrey nanism is prevalent in the Finnish population and appears extremely rare elsewhere. However, cases outside of Finland may be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed as having the 3‐M or Silver–Russell syndrome, two important differential diagnostic disorders. Here, we report the first Australian patient with mulibrey nanism, in whom the occurrence of Wilms’ tumor suggested the correct diagnosis. This was confirmed by the identification of two novel mutations in tripartite motif protein 37 (TRIM37) encoding a RING finger ubiquitin E3 ligase. Both mutations, the p.Cys109Ser B‐box missense mutation and the p.Glu271_Ser287del in‐frame deletion in the tumor necrosis factor receptor associated factor (TRAF) domain alter the subcellular localization of TRIM37. As both the B‐box and the TRAF domains are predicted to be important for mediating the protein–protein interactions, these mutations may help the understanding of the cellular interactions of TRIM37. Our findings imply the importance of early molecular diagnostics in cases of suspected mulibrey nanism and of identifying novel mutations with potential relevance for unraveling the underlying molecular pathology. Ultrasound surveillance for Wilms’ tumor is recommended for children with mulibrey nanism.
The Development of Local Song Preferences in Female Cowbirds (Molothrus ater): Flock Living Stimulates Learning
Authors: West Meredith J. , King Andrew P. , White David J. , Gros‐Louis Julie , Freed‐Brown Grace
Published: October 2006

We carried out two experiments across 2 yr on song perception in female cowbirds (Molothrus ater). In the first experiment, juvenile and adult female brown‐headed cowbirds, living in same‐sex flocks in outdoor aviaries, were periodically tutored with recordings of local male cowbirds’ songs. In the spring, four adult male cowbirds were placed with half of the females for a 12‐d period. We then tested song preferences of all females by measuring copulation solicitation displays during the breeding season. We found that the females exposed only to tape‐tutor songs preferred those songs to those of the unfamiliar males used as companions and that the females allowed to interact with males preferred their songs over the familiar tape‐tutor songs. These data establish the modifiability of female cowbirds’ song preferences at the level of local song. In a second experiment, we studied the playback responses of juvenile females, hand‐reared from the egg, who were tape‐tutored only in the spring in the presence or absence of adult females. There were no differences between the responses of juveniles housed with or without adult females and the hand‐reared juveniles were significantly less responsive to song than adult females. Adult females responded more to familiar songs than to the unfamiliar songs: juvenile females made no such distinction. Taken as a whole, these data are the first to document that female cowbirds’ song preferences for local song can be reshaped by post‐natal experience. These data complement recent study in cowbirds and other species showing that socially more complex contexts reveal plasticity in female song preferences that are not apparent when learning opportunities are constrained by impoverished laboratory settings.
Fox Odour Increases Vigilance in European Rabbits: A Study under Semi‐Natural Conditions
Authors: Monclús Raquel , Rödel Heiko G. , Von Holst Dietrich
Published: October 2006

The recognition of predator odours is a well‐known mechanism in many prey species which may lead to various behavioural and physiological responses. This has been shown for many mammal species under laboratory conditions, but efforts to validate the results in the field often have led to inconclusive results. We investigated the behavioural reactions and the physiological stress response of European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) to the odour of a mammalian predator (red fox, Vulpes vulpes) under semi‐natural conditions. The study was conducted on a rabbit population living in an outdoor enclosure of 2 ha. We compared the rates of vigilance and exploration, the time allocated to self‐directed behaviours, the home range sizes and the physiological responses of an experimental and a control group. Only animals from the experimental group were confronted with fox faeces. These animals increased their vigilance rate whereas the control animals did not respond. The increase did not differ between adult and subadult individuals. Furthermore, the experimental animals frequently approached the odour of the predator which might indicate an increase in investigative behaviour. Home‐range size, feeding and other self‐directed behaviours did not change in response to fox odour. Moreover, the animals of the experimental and the control group did not differ in serum corticosterone concentrations (measured after adrenocorticotrophic hormone challenge) that we determined in the beginning and in the end of the experiment. We suggest that the observed behavioural responses represent a low‐cost strategy for lowering the individual risk of predation.
Sox genes regulate type 2 collagen expression in avian neural crest cells
Authors: Suzuki Takashi , Sakai Daisuke , Osumi Noriko , Wada Hiroshi , Wakamatsu Yoshio
Published: October 2006

Neural crest cells give rise to a wide variety of cell types, including cartilage cells in the cranium and neurons and glial cells in the peripheral nervous system. To examine the relationship of cartilage differentiation and neural crest differentiation, we examined the expression of Col2a1, which encodes type 2 collagen often used as a cartilage marker, and compared it with the expression of Sox transcription factor genes, which are involved in neural crest development and chondrogenesis. We found that Col2a1 is expressed in many neural crest‐derived cell types along with combinations of Sox9, Sox10 and LSox5. Overexpression studies reveal the activation of Col2a1 expression by Sox9 and Sox10, and cross‐regulation of these Sox genes. Luciferase assay indicates a direct activation of the Col2a1 enhancer/promoter both by Sox9 and Sox10, and this activation is further enhanced by cAMP‐dependent kinase (PKA) signaling. Our study suggests that the regulatory mechanisms are similar in cartilage and neural crest differentiation.
Differential growth identified in salamander larvae half‐sib cohorts: Survival strategy?
Authors: Cohen Miriam , Yeheskely‐Hayon Daniella , Warburg Michael R. , Davidson Dana , Halevi Gili , Sharon Rakefet
Published: October 2006

In this study we describe the growth of several different larval cohorts (i.e. half‐siblings of the same mother born on the same day) of a rare, xeric‐adapted salamander Salamandra s. infraimmaculata Martens, 1885, under constant density and food conditions from birth to metamorphosis. The larvae spend the critical first phase of their lives in water, mostly in temporary ponds. Age and weight at metamorphosis were highly affected by varying food conditions. We have identified six different growth modes that these larvae use, both fast growing and slow growing. Each larval cohort was found to use 2–4 different such growth modes regardless of their initial weight. Fast growing modes (I–III) will enable larvae to survive dry years, and metamorphose bigger. Slow growing modes (IV–VI), used by 8% of the larval population, will enable survival only in rainy years. These last growth modes effect differential temporal dispersal in wet years by delaying the emergence of postmetamorphs onto land. Distribution of growth modes in the larval population is affected by food but not by density conditions. Late‐born, fast‐growing larvae will have an advantage in dry years being able to metamorphose and disperse, whereas the slow‐growing larvae will survive only in wet years.
A prospective evaluation of occult disorders in obstructed defecation using the ‘iceberg diagram’
Authors: Pescatori M. , Spyrou M. , Pulvirenti d'Urso A.
Published: October 2006

Objective  Surgical treatment of constipation and obstructed defecation (OD) carries frequent recurrences, as OD is an ‘iceberg syndrome’ characterized by ‘underwater rocks’ or occult diseases which may affect the outcome of surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate occult disorders in order to alert the clinician of these and minimize failures.

Method  One hundred consecutive constipated patients with OD symptoms, 81 female patients, median age 52 years, underwent perineal examination, proctoscopy, anorectal manometry, and anal/vaginal ultrasound. Anorectal physiology and imaging tests were also carried out when indicated, as well as psychological and urogynaecological consultation. Symptoms were graded using a modified 1–20 constipation score. Both evident (e.g. rectocele) and occult (e.g. anismus) diseases were prospectively evaluated using a novel ‘iceberg diagram’. The type of treatment, whether conservative or surgical, was also recorded.

Results  Fifty‐four (54%) patients had both mucosal prolapse and rectocele. All patients had at least two occult OD‐related diseases, 66 patients had at least three: anxiety‐depression, anismus and rectal hyposensation were the most frequent (66%, 44% and 33% respectively). The median constipation score was 11 (range 2–20), the median number of ‘occult disorders’ was 5 (range 2–8). Conservative treatment was carried out in most patients. Surgery was carried out in 14 (14%) patients.

Conclusion  The novel ‘iceberg diagram’ allowed the adequate evaluation of OD‐related occult diseases and better selection of patients for treatment. Most were managed conservatively, and only a minority were treated by surgery.
Intermediate sized adenomas may represent an increased cancer risk
Authors: Pearson T. E. , Lewis G. , Bugg W. , Bright P. , Lillie J. , Marks C.
Published: October 2006

Objective:  The purpose of colonoscopic polypectomy is cancer prevention. Multiple or large adenomas require intensive follow up but solitary or smaller lesions are considered safer and less frequent examinations are necessary. The aim of this study was to test if these principles are supported in practice.

Method:  Individuals with polyps but no family history of colorectal cancer (CRC), where pathology and endoscopy reports could be cross‐referenced to confirm size, number and histological classification were included. Cases of colorectal cancer were identified from records of repeat examinations. Follow‐up interval and number of subsequent examinations was determined. A control population of individuals with a normal initial colonoscopy were also studied.

Results:  In total 0.05% of individuals with a normal initial colonoscopy developed CRC. The cancer incidence following numerous or large polyps was not significantly higher than the controls although on average more examinations were performed (see table). Individuals with a single small adenoma did not appear to have increased risk of cancer with fewer colonoscopies, but there were significantly higher numbers of cancers where intermediate sized polyps had been identified.

Conclusion:  Risk of cancer is reduced in large or numerous polyps by frequent examinations. Intermediate sized polyps appear to need more intensive follow‐up protocols than small single adenomas for effective cancer prevention.

First exam result
Number
Follow up (months)
Number of exams
Metachronous cancers

Normal
4935
88.7 (1–201)
1.2
24 (0.05%)

Single (< 5 mm)
74
64.3 (7–148)
1.3
1 (1.4%)
χ2 = 1.1 P = 0.29

Between 5 and 10 mm
73
73.4 (6–165)
1.5
3 (4.1%)
χ2 = 17.61 P < 0.0001

> 3 mm
27
68.1 (6–152)
2.5
0 (0%)
χ2 = 0.13 P = 0.72

Larger than 10 mm
114
73.7 (3–170)
2.9
1 (0.9%)
χ2 = 0.35 P = 0.56
Magnetic resonance imaging predicts circumferential resection margin status in patients receiving preoperative chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer
Authors: Hancock L. , Forde C. , Bradbury J. , Mortensen N. , Gleeson F.
Published: October 2006

Objective:  Accurate tumour re‐assessment after down‐sizing preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for locally advanced middle and lower rectal cancer provides valuable prognostic information prior to surgical resection. (1) We assessed the accuracy of post‐CRT magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in predicting circumferential resection margin status. (2) The accuracy of MRI in staging chemoradiation down‐sized rectal tumours was also assessed.

Method:  Patients from a single tertiary referral centre who received preoperative CRT for biopsy‐proven rectal cancer between January 2003 and February 2005 were identified from a database. All patients received long‐course CRT (50 Gy over 5 weeks and 5‐fluorouracil/leucovorin) prior to surgery. A comprehensive MRI reporting proforma was completed for each patient and results were compared directly with histological specimens.

Results:  Fifty patients were eligible for the study. The overall accuracy for predicting circumferential resection margin status was 76% (38/50, P = 0.006, sensitivity = 96.9%, specificity = 73.8%, negative predictive value = 96.9%). For T staging, MRI was accurate in 52% (26/50) and for nodal staging MRI was correct in 60% (30/50). Venous invasion was predicted in 66% (33/50, P = 0.04). A radiological rectal cancer regression grade was derived and this correlated with histological rectal cancer regression grade in 65% (32/49).

Conclusion:  This study demonstrates that post‐CRT MRI is accurate in predicting the circumferential resection margin status, which provides useful prognostic information prior to surgery.
The enlarged prostate: a brief history of its surgical treatment
Authors: Herr Harry W.
Published: October 2006

Harry Herr is known to all of us as a world leader in urological oncology, and we have all learned from his thoughtful approach to the subject and from his surgical excellence. What many might not know is that he is also a specialist in the history of urology, and indeed is in charge of that section of the Journal of Urology. He writes here about the surgical treatment of the enlarged prostate, which should form the starting point of future lectures on the management of BPH.
Vascular endothelial growth factor‐C expression in bladder transitional cell cancer and its relationship to lymph node metastasis
Authors: Zu Xiongbing , Tang Zhengyan , Li Yuan , Gao Ning , Ding Jian , Qi Lin
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the role of vascular endothelial growth factor‐C (VEGF‐C) in bladder transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), examining VEGF‐C expression in bladder TCC tissue and the association of VEGF‐C with clinicopathological features, as the expression of VEGF‐C in several carcinomas is significantly associated with angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis and regional lymph node metastasis, but there are few reports of VEGF‐C expression in bladder TCC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included 45 patients with bladder TCC; VEGF‐C expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry and the association between VEGF‐C expression and angiogenesis, as evaluated by microvessel density (MVD), was examined.

RESULTS

There was VEGF‐C expression in the cytoplasm of tumour cells, but very little in the normal transitional epithelium. VEGF‐C expression was significantly associated with tumour size, pathological T stage, pathological grade, lymphatic‐venous involvement and pelvic lymph node metastasis (all P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that VEGF‐C expression was an exclusive independent factor influencing pelvic lymph node metastasis. Moreover, the patients with high VEGF‐C expression had a markedly poorer prognosis than those with no or low VEGF‐C expression (P = 0.014). A multivariate analysis based on the Cox proportional hazard model showed that lymph node metastasis was only an independent prognostic factor in the multivariate analysis using the Cox regression model (P = 0.010).

CONCLUSION

The present study provides evidence supporting the involvement of VEGF‐C expression in the promotion of lymph node metastasis in bladder TCC. Examination of VEGF‐C expression in biopsy specimens might be beneficial in predicting pelvic lymph node metastasis.
Challenges in a larger bladder replacement with cell‐seeded and unseeded small intestinal submucosa grafts in a subtotal cystectomy model
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Frimberger Dominic , Cheng Earl Y. , Lin Hsueh‐kung , Kropp Bradley P.
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate small intestinal submucosa (SIS), unseeded or seeded, as a possible augmentation material in a canine model of subtotal cystectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In all, 22 male dogs had a 90% partial cystectomy and were then divided into three groups. At 1 month after the initial cystectomy, dogs in group 1 (unseeded, six) and group 2 (seeded, six) received a bladder augmentation with a corresponding SIS graft. The dogs in group 3 (ten) received no further surgery and were considered the surgical control group. All dogs were evaluated before and after surgery with blood chemistry, urine culture, intravenous urography, cystograms and cystometrograms. After surgery (at 1, 5 and 9 months), the bladders were examined using routine histology and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

All 22 dogs survived the subtotal cystectomy, and 18 survived their intended survival period. One dog, in group 2 (seeded), was killed at 1 month after augmentation due to bladder perforation caused by a large piece of incompletely absorbed SIS. Three other dogs (group 1, two; and group 2, one) were killed within 2 months after augmentation due to bladder obstruction by stones. Group 1 and group 2 SIS grafts had moderate to heavy adhesion, graft shrinkage, and some had bone and calcification at the graft site. Histologically, there was limited bladder regeneration in both groups. Interestingly, dogs in group 3 at 1 month after cystectomy (when group 1 and 2 received their augmentations) had severely shrunken bladders and histologically had severe inflammation, fibroblast infiltration and muscle hypertrophy. These results verify the subtotal cystectomy model.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of seeded or unseeded SIS in a subtotal cystectomy model does not induce the same quality and quantity of bladder regeneration that is seen in the 40% non‐inflammatory cystectomy model. This study provides important insights into the process of regeneration in a severely damaged bladder. The results led us to re‐evaluate the critical elements required for a complete bladder replacement using tissue‐engineering techniques.
One week of ciprofloxacin before percutaneous nephrolithotomy significantly reduces upper tract infection and urosepsis: a prospective controlled study
Authors: Mariappan Paramananthan , Smith Gordon , Moussa Sami A. , Tolley David A.
Published: October 2006

Urosepsis after percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a severe complication, and its avoidance can sometimes be difficult despite antibiotic prophylaxis. Authors from the UK with a considerable experience in this procedure describe a prospective controlled study using ciprofloxacin for 1 week before PCNL, and found that it significantly reduces the risk of urosepsis.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether 1 week of ciprofloxacin before percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in patients with stones of ≥ 20 mm or pelvicalyceal dilatation, reduces urosepsis, as we previously reported that such patients have four times the risk of urosepsis after PCNL.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients undergoing PCNL, and who fulfilled strict selection criteria, were recruited prospectively into a study which was conducted in two phases. The study methods were similar to those previously described; patients with dilated pelvicalyceal systems and/or stones of ≥ 20 mm from phase 1 (previously published) acted as controls. In the subsequent phase, the same selection criteria applied and only those with stones of ≥ 20 mm and/or dilated pelvicalyceal systems were given ciprofloxacin 250 mg twice daily for 1 week before PCNL and comprised the treatment arm. Midstream urine samples, renal pelvic urine and fragmented stones were collected to assess culture and sensitivity. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) was used to define urosepsis after PCNL. The urologists monitoring the patients after PCNL and conducting the analysis were all unaware of the characteristics of the stones or intravenous urography findings before PCNL. In all, 115 patients (54 in phase 1 and 61 in phase 2) were recruited, of whom 46 in phase 1 and 52 in phase 2 had stones of ≥ 20 mm and/or a dilated pelvicalyceal system, and became the control and treatment arms, respectively.

RESULTS

The patient demographics were similar in both arms. There was three times less risk of upper tract infection (relative risk 3.4, 95% confidence interval 1.0–11.8, P = 0.04) and SIRS (2.9, 1.3–6.3, P = 0.004) in the patients receiving ciprofloxacin (treatment arm).

CONCLUSIONS

The administration of oral ciprofloxacin for 1 week before PCNL in patients with stones of ≥ 20 mm or dilated pelvicalyceal systems significantly reduced the risk of urosepsis.
Carefully selected intratesticular lesions can be safely managed with serial ultrasonography
Authors: Connolly Stephen S. , D’Arcy Frank T. , Gough Niall , McCarthy Peter , Bredin Hugh C. , Corcoran Michael O.
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate a policy of conservative non‐operative management for incidental, impalpable, <1 cm, intratesticular pathology.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all scrotal ultrasonograms within an 8‐year period to identify all radiological lesions of <1 cm within the testis. All palpable lesions and those accompanied by elevated tumour markers or disseminated malignancy were managed surgically. The remaining incidentally detected lesions were followed with a protocol of serial ultrasonography (US).

RESULTS

Of 1544 scans reviewed, 12 (0.8%) lesions suitable for observational management were identified. The mean (range) age of the patients was 54 (34–76) years. The indication for US was suspected epididymitis in five, contralateral epididymal cyst in five and infertility in two patients. The mean (range) size of the lesion was 4.9 (1.5–9.8) mm. Three anechoic lesions were consistent with intratesticular cysts, and each was followed with no change to a mean (range) follow‐up of 26 (12–48) months. Eight hypoechoic lesions were followed to a mean of 34 (4–72) months, and only one showed growth on repeat US after an interval of 4 months, and was diagnosed as a 1.0‐cm seminoma after orchidectomy. One hyperechoic lesion remains unchanged at 6 months of follow‐up.

CONCLUSION

Supported by previous reports suggesting that most testis lesions of <1 cm are benign, we managed a series of carefully selected intratesticular lesions conservatively, the behaviour in most being in keeping with benign pathology.
Adjuvant intravesical therapy based on an in vitro cytotoxicity assay in the management of superficial transitional cell cancer of the urinary bladder
Authors: Saxena Sunita , Agrawal Usha , Agarwal Abhilasha , Murthy Nandagudi Srinivasa , Mohanty Nayan Kumar
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the utility of an individualized chemo/immunotherapy regimen of intravesical therapy based on the results of an assessment of in vitro cytotoxicity.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Intravesical adjuvant chemo/immunotherapy was given to 47 patients based on the results of in vitro cytotoxicity assay of the responses of cultured autologous tumour cells to various cytotoxic drugs (mitomycin‐C, doxorubicin and cisplatin) and immunomodulating agents (bacillus Calmette–Guérin, BCG and interferon‐α2b). Intravesical therapy was given as single‐ or double‐drug regimens according to the assay results: 16 (34%) patients showed cytotoxicity to a single drug and 31 (66%) showed maximum cytotoxicity to a combination of immunomodulators and cytotoxic agents. The efficacy of treatment in terms of tumour‐free survival and recurrence rate was compared with 40 patients receiving intravesical BCG according to International Protocol (control group).

RESULTS

In the in vitro assay group, seven patients (15%) had tumour recurrence, compared to 15 (38%) in the control group (P = 0.02). In the in vitro group, one of 16 patients on a single drug and six on the double‐drug regimen had a recurrence. The patients given BCG with cytotoxic drugs had no recurrences, but 29% of patients given interferon‐α2b combinations had recurrences. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed a longer recurrence‐free survival in the in vitro group (75%) than in the control group (49%) at 48 months of follow‐up.

CONCLUSION

Intravesical therapy based on an in vitro cytotoxicity assay is an attempt to give individualized therapy, and to increase tumour‐free survival in these patients, with no side‐effects. Recurrences in seven patients in the in vitro group might be due to a defective host immune response, or to expansion of a subclone of tumour cells resistant to all treatment.
The effects of a new selective β3‐adrenoceptor agonist (GW427353) on spontaneous activity and detrusor relaxation in human bladder
Authors: Biers Suzanne M. , Reynard John M. , Brading Alison F.
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effects of a new selective β3‐adrenoceptor agonist, GW427353 on human detrusor function, as β2‐ and β3‐adrenoceptors have been identified in the bladder, and can mediate detrusor relaxation, but β3‐adrenoceptors are less widely distributed and β3‐adrenoceptor agonists should have the therapeutic advantage of producing fewer treatment side‐effects.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

‘Normal’ human detrusor was retrieved from 12 patients (mean age 56 years) at cystectomy and from organ donors. Detrusor strips (4 × 1 × 1 mm) were mounted in superfused organ baths. Tone was induced with carbachol (5 × 10−7m) before applying either a nonselective β‐adrenoceptor agonist (isoprenaline) or GW427353 (with or without the β3‐adrenoceptor antagonist, SR59230A). In addition, the effect of GW427353 was tested on intrinsic nerve‐evoked smooth muscle contraction over time. Effects on spontaneous activity were also recorded.

RESULTS

GW427353 produced significant relaxation at concentrations of >10−7m; isoprenaline produced a significant effect from 10−6m, but otherwise both agonists had similar effects. The addition of SR59230A (10−7m), produced partial inhibition of the GW427353 response. GW427353 at 10−6msignificantly reduced spontaneous activity within 10 min of incubation, and at higher concentrations (>5 × 10−6m) inhibited detrusor contractions evoked by electrical field stimulation.

CONCLUSION

Neuropathic bladder dysfunction is characterized by increased spontaneous activity and involuntary detrusor contractions, which can result in urinary frequency, urgency, nocturia and incontinence. The novel feature of GW427353 is the ability to suppress spontaneous activity and produce significant relaxation in human detrusor tissue at low concentrations, whilst also inhibiting evoked detrusor contractions at higher concentrations.
Simultaneous transurethral cystolithotripsy with holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: a prospective feasibility study and review of literature
Authors: Shah Hemendra N. , Hegde Sunil S. , Shah Jignesh N. , Mahajan Amol P. , Bansal Manish B.
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVE

To report experience with holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) simultaneously with transurethral holmium laser cystolithotripsy (HLC) for managing bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) and associated vesical calculi; we also review previously reported cases of managing vesical calculi and associated BOO.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The high‐powered holmium laser is a very efficient multifunctional endourological instrument that effectively fragments calculi of all compositions and is capable of haemostatic cutting of tissue, resulting in minimal bleeding after prostatic resection. A prospective study was conducted from April 2003 that included 32 men who underwent simultaneous HoLEP with transurethral HLC at our institution. Demographic, laboratory, peri‐operative and follow‐up data were analysed. Complications during and after surgery were identified to assess the morbidity of procedure.

RESULTS

The mean (range) size of bladder calculi was 34.6 (12–70) mm and the preoperative weight of the prostate was 51.9 (11–172) g. Combined HoLEP with transurethral HLC was technically feasible in all patients, and all were stone‐free after surgery. The mean operative duration was 97.7 (40–230) min, the weight of prostate tissue removed 34.6 (5–88) g, and the duration of catheterization and hospital stay 29.3 h and 34.8 h, respectively. Complications during and after surgery occurred in 12.5% and 15.6% of patients, respectively; all complication were minor and none caused any residual disability to the patient. No patient required a blood transfusion or developed clot retention.

CONCLUSIONS

Managing bladder stones and BOO with simultaneous transurethral HLC and HoLEP should be considered the treatment of choice for such cases. Stones of any size and composition, and prostates of practically any size can be treated endoscopically using the holmium laser, with acceptable morbidity once the technique is mastered. The review of previous reports suggested a need for a prospective study comparing endoscopic management of BOO and associated bladder stones, with medical management of BOO and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy/endoscopic lithotripsy for bladder stone.
Sialorphin (the mature peptide product ofVcsa1) relaxes corporal smooth muscle tissue and increases erectile function in the ageing rat
Authors: Davies Kelvin P. , Tar Moses , Rougeot Catherine , Melman Arnold
Published: October 2006

OBJECTIVE

To determine if the mature peptide product of theVcsa1gene, sialorphin, could restore erectile function in ageing rats, and whether these effects are mediated through relaxation of corporal smooth muscle tissue, as we recently reported thatVcsa1is one of the most down‐regulated genes in the corpora of rats in three distinct models of erectile dysfunction, and gene transfer of plasmids expressingVcsa1into the corpora of ageing rats restored erectile function.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sialorphin was injected intracorporeally into retired breeder rats, and the effect on the physiology of corporal tissue was analysed by intracorporal/blood pressure (ICP/BP) measurement at different times after injection. In organ‐bath studies, the ability of sialorphin (1 µg/mL) to enhance C‐type natriuretic peptide (CNP) relaxation of corporal smooth muscle tissue strips was investigated after pre‐contraction with 1 µmphenylephrine.

RESULTS

Intracorporal injection of 100 µg sialorphin into retired breeder rats resulted in a time‐dependent increase in the ICP/BP response to electrostimulation of the cavernosal nerve. After 55–65 min the ICP/BP ratio increased to ≈ 0.6, a value associated with normal erectile function. In organ‐bath studies after pre‐contraction with 1 µmphenylephrine, 1 µmCNP significantly (67%) increased the relaxation rate of corporal tissue. This rate of relaxation was increased by 2.5‐fold after incubation with sialorphin (1 µg/mL) compared with carrier alone.

CONCLUSION

These results show that sialorphin has a role in erectile function, probably through a mechanism that involves relaxation of corporal smooth muscle tissue.
Unsung Heroes: Constituency Election Agents in British General Elections
Authors: Fisher Justin , Denver David , Hands Gordon
Published: October 2006

Despite their central role in the electoral process, constituency agents have been largely overlooked by political scientists and this article seeks to rectify the omission. It sketches the origins and development of the role of agent from the late 19th century and suggests that a serious rethink of the role took place in the 1990s. Survey-based evidence about the social characteristics of agents is presented confirming that they are largely middle-aged, middle-class, well-educated men. They are also becoming more experienced, offer realistic assessments of the impact of constituency campaigning and, arguably, many take a long-term view of how their party's support can be maximised.
ON THE CONFLICT–POVERTY NEXUS
Authors: BLOMBERG S. BROCK , HESS GREGORY D. , THACKER SIDDHARTH
Published: October 2006

We develop a model to explore the inter‐relationships between conflict and economic activity. We construct a simple two‐period model where consumption and investment decisions are made in the presence of governments who consider initiating diversionary conflict to raise their chances of remaining in power. Economies with selfish leaders and lower gains from capital formation may fall prey to engaging in avoidable conflicts thereby lowering investment and hence future growth. Using panel data for over 152 countries from 1950 to 2000, we find evidence for conflict lowering economic growth and, after conditioning on the initial conditions of geography, private, public, and human capital investment, lower growth raising the likelihood of conflict. These results are broadly consistent with our model.
STOP US BEFORE WE SPEND AGAIN: INSTITUTIONAL CONSTRAINTS ON GOVERNMENT SPENDING
Authors: PRIMO DAVID M.
Published: October 2006

A distributive politics model establishes that the presence of exogenously enforceable spending limits reduces spending and that the effect of executive veto authority is contingent on whether spending is capped and whether the chief executive is a liberal or conservative. Surprisingly, when spending limits are in place, governments with conservative executives spend more than those with more liberal chief executives. Limits are welfare improving, as is the executive veto when it leads to the building of override coalitions. Using 32 years of US state budget data, this paper also establishes empirically that strict balanced budget rules constrain spending and also lead to less pronounced short‐term responses to fluctuations in a state's economy. Party variables like divided government and party control of state legislatures tend to have little or no direct effect, with political institutions and economic indicators explaining much of the variation in state spending.
Computing power in case‐control association studies through the use of quadratic approximations: application to meta‐statistics
Authors: Guedj M. , Della‐Chiesa E. , Picard F. , Nuel G.
Published: October 2006

In the framework of case‐control studies many different test statistics are available to measure the association of a marker with a given disease. Nevertheless, choosing one particular statistic can lead to very different conclusions. In the absence of a consensus for this choice, a tempting option is to evaluate the power of these different statistics prior to make any decision. We review the available methods dedicated to power computation and assess their respective reliability in treating a wide range of tests on a wide range of alternative models.

Considering Monte‐Carlo, non‐central chi‐square and Delta‐Method estimates, we evaluate empirical, asymptotic and numerical approaches. Additionally we introduce the use of the Delta‐Method, extended to order 2, intended to provide better results than the traditional order‐1 Delta‐Method. Supplementary data can be found at: http://stat.genopole.cnrs.fr/software/dm2.
Understanding the Role of Individual Innovativeness in the Acceptance of IT‐Based Innovations: Comparative Analyses of Models and Measures*
Authors: Yi Mun Y. , Fiedler Kirk D. , Park Jae S.
Published: October 2006

As new technological innovations are rapidly introduced and changed, identifying an individual characteristic that has a persistent effect on the acceptance decisions across multiple technologies is of substantial value for the successful implementation of information systems. Augmenting prior work on individual innovativeness within the context of information technology, we developed a new measure of adopter category innovativeness (ACI) and compared its effectiveness with the existing measure of personal innovativeness in IT (PIIT). Further, we examined two alternative models in which the role of individual innovativeness was theorized differently—either as a moderator of the effects the perceived innovation characteristics of usefulness, ease of use, and compatibility have on future use intention (moderator model) or as a direct determinant of the innovation characteristics (direct determinant model). To ensure the generalizability of the study findings, two field studies (N= 634) were conducted, each of which examined the two models (moderator and direct determinant) and measured individual innovativeness using the two measures (ACI and PIIT). Study 1 surveyed the online buying practices of 412 individuals, and Study 2 surveyed personal digital assistant adoption of 222 healthcare professionals. Across the markedly different adoption contexts, the study results consistently show that individual innovativeness is a direct determinant of the innovation characteristics, and the two measures share many commonalities. The new measure offers some additional utilities not found in the PIIT measure by allowing individuals to be directly classified and mapped into adopter categories. Implications are drawn for future research and practice.
An Empirical Investigation of Web Site Use Using a Commitment‐Based Model
Authors: Li Dahui , Browne Glenn J. , Chau Patrick Y. K.
Published: October 2006

Companies throughout industry are interested in retaining existing customers, because customers' continuous consumption of products and services is critical to the long‐term value propositions of most organizations. Thus, decision‐making strategies that promote continuous use and customer retention are of research interest, both theoretically and practically. In the present research, we investigate one important area of continuous usage, that of Web site use. In particular, we use several theories of commitment to understand how an individual's decision to continue to use a Web site is influenced by his or her commitment toward that Web site and the vendor that supports it. Results derived from data collected from 335 users of a variety of Web sites indicated that affective commitment, calculative commitment, quality of alternatives, and trust were significantly associated with an individual's behavioral intention to continue to use a Web site. Implications for customer retention and decision‐making strategies are discussed.
Dynamic Interactions among the Stock Market, Federal Funds Rate, Inflation, and Economic Activity
Authors: Laopodis Nikiforos T.
Published: October 2006

This paper examines the dynamic interactions among the equity market, economic activity, inflation, and monetary policy under three monetary policy regimes using bivariate and multivariate vector autoregressive cointegrating specifications. The bivariate results for the real stock returns‐inflation pair weakly support a negative correlation in the 1970s and 1980s. While the bivariate findings suggest a weak, negative relationship between real returns and the federal funds in the 1970s and 1980s, the multivariate findings strongly support short‐term linkages in the 1970s. There appears to be no consistent dynamic relationship between monetary policy and stock prices in that the relationship differs across monetary regimes.
Myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma in an unreported area (groin)
Authors: Bar‐Meir Eran , Fridman Eduard , Zilinsky Isaac , Orenstein Arie , Winkler Eyal
Published: October 2006

Background:  Myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma (MIFS) is a rare tumor presenting as a painless subcutaneous mass in the extremities first reported in 1998. We report the first case of a MIFS tumor in the groin.

Methods:  We have performed seven immunohistochemical stains that were not applied before on MIFS.

Results:  The first case of a MIFS tumor in the groin.

Conclusions:  MIFS must be considered in the differential diagnosis of a painless mass not only in the distal extremities but also in the groin. The diagnosis of this tumor is difficult and can be missed if not considered because of the unusual location. Due to high recurrence rates and one case of documented metastases, the recommended treatment is wide excision.
Actinic cheilitis: histologic study of the entire vermilion and comparison with previous biopsy
Authors: Menta Simonsen Nico Marcello , Rivitti Evandro A. , Lourenço Silvia Vanessa
Published: October 2006

Background:  Actinic cheilitis (AC), is the very superficial, incipient form of actinically induced squamous cell carcinoma of the lower lip. Few studies of actinic cheilitis analyzed the entire lip vermilion searching for microscopic areas of progressing carcinoma.

Methods:  Twenty patients with biopsy proved actinic cheilitis presenting with diffuse clinical changes were submitted to vermilionectomy of lower lip. Surgical specimens were sectioned every 3 mm, studied histopathologically and findings were compared with the biopsy. Histological findings were classified as ‘AC’, carcinoma in situ (CIS), superficially invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SISCC), and invasive squamous cell carcinoma (ISCC).

Results:  Comparison between biopsies and most severe changes on vermilionectomies revealed coincidental changes in 10 cases (50%), more severe changes on biopsy occurred in two cases (10%) and in eight cases (40%) the changes on vermilionectomy were more severe. SISCC was diagnosed in nine cases (45%): of these, two had been detected on biopsy, six had shown a milder aspect on biopsy, and in one biopsy had shown ISCC. Foci of discontinuous areas of SISCC were detected in four cases (20%).

Conclusions:  These findings suggest that cases of AC presenting with poorly demarcated lesions may bear severe histopathological changes irregularly distributed along the vermilion.
Leucoencephalopathy with cerebral calcinosis in a young chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) – a case report
Authors: Zöller M. , Grevot A. , Mätz‐Rensing K. , Hofmann P. , Jurek V. , Schulz‐Schaeffer W. , Kaup F.‐J.
Published: October 2006

Case history  A 4‐year‐old chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) had a clinical history of a 2‐year progressive central nervous dysfunction including convulsions and severe paralysis.

Results  Gross pathology revealed cerebral atrophy, ventricular enlargement and a severe encephalomalacia with extensive calcifications. Histologically, the white matter showed diffuse demyelination as well as vascular and perivascular calcifications which also involved the basal ganglia. Blood vessels with less distinctive calcium deposits exhibited periodic acid Schiff positive hyalinosis. Large areas of necrosis, hemorrhage and intense gliosis were also present. Activation of astrocytes and macrophages was confirmed by immunohistochemical methods.

Conclusions  The etiology of the leucoencepalopathy could not be ascertained by macroscopic, histological and immunohistochemical examinations. Potential differential diagnoses include the rarely occurring Fahr's disease in humans, arteriosclerosis, storage disease and the Aicardi–Goutières syndrome. Based on the results of the postmortal examinations Fahr's disease is regarded as the most likely diagnosis in the present case of the chimpanzee.