bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of marA, soxS, rob, acrAB and micF in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium
Authors: Hartog Efrat , Ben‐Shalom Lior , Shachar Dina , Matthews Karl R. , Yaron Sima
Published: December 2008

Importance of the overexpression of AcrAB efflux pumps in the low‐level resistance of pathogens to antimicrobials requires a better understanding of the AcrAB regulation. The goal of the present research was to study the transcription of acrAB, as well as the genes that play a role in its regulation in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. We monitored the transcription of these genes during growth at 30 °C and 37 °C, and thoroughly studied the effect of salicylate, paraquat and decanoate. The strengths of the promoters' activities were ordered from strong to weak as micF > rob > acrAB > soxS, marRAB. At both temperatures, marRAB was mainly upregulated by salicylate and decanoate, soxS by paraquat and acrAB and micF by all three compounds. rob was always downregulated. Transcription rates of all promoters were at the greatest level at the beginning of the stationary phase and, except for soxS, levels of transcription and induction were greater at 37 °C. Results show that despite the promoters' similar activity and the sequence homology between Escherichia coli and S. typhimurium, regulation of the investigated genes of both strains differed in the response to temperature. This difference was found to be dependent on the promoters' sequence, as the marRAB and acrAB promoters maintained their original dependence on temperature when they were analyzed in the other strain. Hence, it is most likely that the nutrient‐limited environment at 37 °C in the human body will lead to increased transcription of marA, acrAB and micF in Salmonella, enhancing the resistance properties of the bacteria.
Antimicrobial susceptibilities of Propionibacterium acnes isolated from patients with acne vulgaris
Authors: Ishida Natsumi , Nakaminami Hidemasa , Noguchi Norihisa , Kurokawa Ichiro , Nishijima Setsuko , Sasatsu Masanori
Published: December 2008

Antibiotic susceptibilities of Propionibacterium acnes in Japan were determined. Erythromycin‐resistance was found in 10.4% (5/48) of the strains, and four of these were cross‐resistance to clindamycin. Although the erythromycin ribosome methylase gene erm(X) was looked for, no strain carrying erm(X) was found. Sequencing analysis revealed that all of the erythromycin‐resistant strains had a mutation in the peptidyl transferase region of the 23S rRNA gene: G2057A, A2058G, or A2059G. Consequently, our results show that P. acnes resistance to macrolides is caused by a mutation in the 23S rRNA gene, and has been increasing in Japan.
Clinical trial: the effects of a trans‐galactooligosaccharide prebiotic on faecal microbiota and symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: SILK D. B. A. , DAVIS A. , VULEVIC J. , TZORTZIS G. , GIBSON G. R.
Published: December 2008

Background  Gut microflora‐mucosal interactions may be involved in the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Aim  To investigate the efficacy of a novel prebiotic trans‐galactooligosaccharide in changing the colonic microflora and improve the symptoms in IBS sufferers.

Methods  In all, 44 patients with Rome II positive IBS completed a 12‐week single centre parallel crossover controlled clinical trial. Patients were randomized to receive either 3.5 g/d prebiotic, 7 g/d prebiotic or 7 g/d placebo. IBS symptoms were monitored weekly and scored according to a 7‐point Likert scale. Changes in faecal microflora, stool frequency and form (Bristol stool scale) subjective global assessment (SGA), anxiety and depression and QOL scores were also monitored.

Results  The prebiotic significantly enhanced faecal bifidobacteria (3.5 g/d P < 0.005; 7 g/d P < 0.001). Placebo was without effect on the clinical parameters monitored, while the prebiotic at 3.5 g/d significantly changed stool consistency (P < 0.05), improved flatulence (P < 0.05) bloating (P < 0.05), composite score of symptoms (P < 0.05) and SGA (P < 0.05). The prebiotic at 7 g/d significantly improved SGA (P < 0.05) and anxiety scores (P < 0.05).

Conclusion  The galactooligosaccharide acted as a prebiotic in specifically stimulating gut bifidobacteria in IBS patients and is effective in alleviating symptoms. These findings suggest that the prebiotic has potential as a therapeutic agent in IBS.
The role of X‐inactivation in the gender bias of patients with acquired α‐thalassaemia and myelodysplastic syndrome (ATMDS)
Authors: Haas Peter S. , Roy Noemi B. A. , Gibbons Richard J. , Deville Marie‐Alice , Fisher Chris , Schwabe Michael , Bissé Emmanuel , Van Dorsselaer Alain , Higgs Douglas R. , Lübbert Michael
Published: December 2008

Αlpha thalassaemia myelodysplastic syndrome (ATMDS) is an unusual complication of chronic myeloid malignancy that is associated with a striking red cell phenotype. It represents an acquired form of α‐thalassaemia that most commonly arises in the context of myelodysplasia. It has recently been shown that this condition occurs in association with somatic mutations of a known X‐encoded trans‐acting regulator of α globin gene (HBA) expression, ATRX. There is an unexplained, strong male preponderance of individuals with the ATMDS phenotype with a >5:1 male–female ratio and furthermore, all the somatic ATRX mutations described to date have been in males. Here we report the identification, in a single centre, of two females with ATMDS and mutations in the ATRX gene, proving that ATMDS associated with such mutations may occur, albeit rarely, in females. It seemed possible that females might be less likely to develop ATMDS if the inactivated copy of the ATRX gene (ATRX) became progressively re‐activated throughout life. This study ruled out this hypothesis by investigating the pattern of ATRX inactivation in a cross‐sectional analysis of normal females at ages ranging from newborn to 90 years.
Development of a measure of family‐centred care for resource‐poor South African settings: the experience of using a modified version of the MPOC‐20
Authors: Saloojee G. M. , Rosenbaum P. R. , Westaway M. S. , Stewart A. V.
Published: December 2008

Background The Measure of Processes of Care (MPOC) is a widely used tool to assess parents' self‐reported experiences of family‐centred behaviours of paediatric rehabilitation services. It has never been used in resource‐constrained settings or in a cross‐cultural environment where cultural and language differences may complicate effective implementation of family‐centred services. In this study, the MPOC‐20 was used as the starting point for the development of a measure of family‐centred care in disadvantaged South African settings. The objective was to establish to what extent the MPOC‐20 needed to be adapted for these settings.

Methods After modifying MPOC‐20 through focus groups, the adapted scale was translated into six local languages. Trained interviewers administered the scale to a convenience sample of 267 caregivers of children aged between 1 and 18 years with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy living in poorly resourced areas in two provinces in South Africa.

Results The modified MPOC‐20 was neither reliable nor valid in the new setting. Cronbach's alpha for each of the sub‐scales varied between 0.30 and 0.66 while for the test–retest reliability, the Intraclass Correlation Coefficients were between 0.51 and 0.61. The first two criteria for item convergent validity were not met. Repeated multi‐trait scaling identified eight items that when combined into a scale [named the MPOC‐8(SA)] had acceptable reliability and validity. Factor analysis of the MPOC‐8(SA) yielded two factors: an interpersonal factor and an informational factor.

Conclusions Although extreme caution has to be used when using measures created in one socio‐cultural setting in a different context, the MPOC‐20 provides a useful starting point for the development of a measure of family‐centred care in a poor resourced setting. Caregivers in different settings have more in common than they have differences. However, the process of asking the questions and the words used to capture caregivers' experiences needs to be different.
Lower prevalence of mild hyperthyroidism related to a higher iodine intake in the population: prospective study of a mandatory iodization programme
Authors: Vejbjerg Pernille , Knudsen Nils , Perrild Hans , Laurberg Peter , Carlé Allan , Pedersen Inge Bülow , Rasmussen Lone B , Ovesen Lars , Jørgensen Torben
Published: December 2008

Objective  Marked differences in pattern of thyroid dysfunction are seen in populations with different iodine intakes. We evaluated the influence of a higher iodine intake on thyroid hormone levels and the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in the Danish population.

Design  Two cross‐sectional studies matched on a group level according to sex and age.

Participants  In all, 8219 individuals were examined before (n = 4649) or after (n = 3570) the introduction of a mandatory iodization programme in 2000 in two regions with established mild and moderate iodine deficiency. Serum TSH, fT4 and fT3 were measured. An ultrasonography of the thyroid was performed.

Results  We found a higher median serum TSH after the introduction of mandatory iodization of salt: 1·51 mU/l (10–90th percentiles: 0·72–3·00) vs. 1·30 mU/l (10–90th percentiles: 0·59–2·66) before iodization. The difference was found in both regions and across age groups. There was a lower prevalence of mild hyperthyroidism and a tendency towards a lower prevalence of overt hyperthyroidism. The prevalence of mild hypothyroidism increased, most pronounced among young women after iodization. Conversely, there was a lower prevalence of undiagnosed overt hypothyroidism. However, when currently treated participants were included, the prevalence of hypothyroidism increased after iodization in the area with formerly mild iodine deficiency.

Conclusion  A change in pattern of thyroid dysfunction was seen in relation to mandatory iodization of salt. There was no rise in the prevalence of hyperthyroidism and the prevalence of mild hyperthyroidism was halved. Conversely, prevalence of hypothyroidism increased.
Proinflammatory cytokine and ligands modulate cardiac peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors
Authors: Lee T‐I. , Kao Y‐H. , Chen Y‐C. , Chen Y‐J.
Published: December 2008

Background  Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPAR) mediate inflammatory processes and alter cardiac function. However, it is not clear whether inflammatory cytokines or PPAR ligands regulate PPARs in the cardiomyocytes to modulate cardiac functions. We investigated the effects of tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) and PPAR ligands on the expression of PPARs in HL‐1 cardiomyocytes.

Materials and methods  HL‐1 cardiomyocytes were incubated with and without TNF‐α (1, 10, 25 and 50 ng mL−1) or PPAR ligands (rosiglitazone, pioglitazone and fenofibrate) at concentrations of 0·1, 1 and 10 µm for 24 h. The cells also received SN‐50 (NF‐κB inhibitor, 50 µg mL−1), ascorbic acid (100 µm) and coenzyme Q10 (10 µm) alone or combined with TNF‐α.

Results  Using reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction and Western blot, we found that incubation of TNF‐α (50 ng mL−1) for 24 h decreased PPAR‐α, but increased PPAR‐γ without altering PPAR‐δ. These effects were not changed by co‐administration of SN‐50. However, co‐administration of ascorbic acid prevented the effect of TNF‐α both on PPAR‐α and PPAR‐γ. Coenzyme Q10 partially attenuated the effect of TNF‐α on PPAR‐γ but did not alter its effect on PPAR‐α. The administration of rosiglitazone (10 µm) and pioglitazone (10 µm) for 24 h increased PPAR‐γ mRNA, but did not alter PPAR‐α or PPAR‐δ. Moreover, fenofibrate (0·1, 1 and 10 µm) increased PPAR‐γ without any effects on PPAR‐α or PPAR‐δ.

Conclusions  Oxidative stress causes the regulations of PPAR‐α and PPAR‐γ in the TNF‐α‐treated cardiomyocytes. The up‐regulation of PPAR‐γ by PPAR ligands may contribute to their anti‐inflammation effects.
Structural basis of target recognition by Atg8/LC3 during selective autophagy
Authors: Noda Nobuo N. , Kumeta Hiroyuki , Nakatogawa Hitoshi , Satoo Kenji , Adachi Wakana , Ishii Junko , Fujioka Yuko , Ohsumi Yoshinori , Inagaki Fuyuhiko
Published: December 2008

Autophagy is a non‐selective bulk degradation process in which isolation membranes enclose a portion of cytoplasm to form double‐membrane vesicles, called autophagosomes, and deliver their inner constituents to the lytic compartments. Recent studies have also shed light on another mode of autophagy that selectively degrades various targets. Yeast Atg8 and its mammalian homologue LC3 are ubiquitin‐like modifiers that are localized on isolation membranes and play crucial roles in the formation of autophagosomes. These proteins are also involved in selective incorporation of specific cargo molecules into autophagosomes, in which Atg8 and LC3 interact with Atg19 and p62, receptor proteins for vacuolar enzymes and disease‐related protein aggregates, respectively. Using X‐ray crystallography and NMR, we herein report the structural basis for Atg8–Atg19 and LC3–p62 interactions. Remarkably, Atg8 and LC3 were shown to interact with Atg19 and p62, respectively, in a quite similar manner: they recognized the side‐chains of Trp and Leu in a four‐amino acid motif, WXXL, in Atg19 and p62 using hydrophobic pockets conserved among Atg8 homologues. Together with mutational analyses, our results show the fundamental mechanism that allows Atg8 homologues, in association with WXXL‐containing proteins, to capture specific cargo molecules, thereby endowing isolation membranes and/or their assembly machineries with target selectivity.
Effect of temperature and consistency on wheat dough performance
Authors: Rosell Cristina M. , Collar Concha
Published: December 2008

The effects of the dough consistency (DC; 300–700 BU), temperature of mixing (16–32 °C) and temperature along fermentation (15–35 °C) on the wheat bread dough performance during mixing, proofing, cooking and cooling have been studied through a central composite experimental design. Farinograph responses revealed the significant role of DC (α < 0.001) and mixing temperature (MT) (α < 0.001) on wheat bread dough elasticity. Fermentation responses obtained from the rheofermentometer showed that the DC induces a significant positive linear effect on dough development, whereas gas development was mainly governed by the fermentation temperature. The wheat bread dough behaviour subjected to a dual mechanical shear stress and temperature constraint showed that DC had a significant linear and positive effect on the starch gelatinisation and gelling process. Therefore, breadmaking is highly governed for DC, namely dough hydration, which has a direct consequence on the mixing, fermenting, cooking and cooling performance of the wheat bread dough.
Effects of pH and temperature on inactivation of Salmonella typhimurium DT104 in liquid whole egg by pulsed electric fields
Authors: Jin Tony , Zhang Howard , Hermawan Nelda , Dantzer William
Published: December 2008

Pulsed electric field (PEF) exposes a fluid or semi‐fluid product to short pulses of high‐energy electricity, which can inactivate microorganisms. The efficacy of PEF treatment for pasteurisation of liquid eggs may be a function of processing temperature. In this study, effects of PEF, temperature, pH and PEF with mild heat (PEF + heat) on the inactivation of Salmonella typhimurium DT104 cells in liquid whole egg (LWE) were investigated. Cells of S. typhimurium were inoculated into LWE pH adjusted to 6.6, 7.2 or 8.2 at 15, 25, 30 and 40 °C. The PEF field strength, pulse duration and total treatment time were 25 kV cm−1, 2.1 μs and 250 μs respectively. Cells of S. typhimurium in LWE at pH 7.2 were reduced by 2.1 logs at 40 °C and 1.8 logs at 30 °C. The PEF inactivation of S. typhimurium cells at 15 or 25 °C was pH dependent. Heat treatment at 55 °C for 3.5 min or PEF treatment at 20 °C resulted in c. 1‐log reduction of S. typhimurium cells. Combination of PEF + 55 °C achieved 3‐log reduction of S. typhimurium cells and was comparable to the inactivation by the heat treatment at 60 °C for 3.5 min. With further development, PEF + heat treatment may have an advantage over high‐temperature treatment for pasteurisation of liquid eggs.
Rheological behaviour of acorn starch dispersions: effects of concentration and temperature
Authors: Kim Won‐Woo , Yoo Byoungseung
Published: December 2008

Rheological properties of acorn starch dispersions at different concentrations (4%, 5%, 6% and 7%) were evaluated under steady and dynamic shear conditions. The flow behaviours of the acorn starch dispersions at different temperatures (25, 40, 55 and 70 °C) were determined from the rheological parameters provided by the power law model. The acorn starch dispersions at 25 °C exhibited high shear‐thinning fluid characteristics (n = 0.23–0.36). Consistency index (K) and apparent viscosity (ηa,100) increased with an increase in starch concentration, and were also reduced with increasing temperature. Within the temperature range of 25–70 °C, the ηa,100 obeyed the Arrhenius temperature relationship with a high determination coefficient (R2 = 0.97–0.99), with activation energies (Ea) ranging between 16.5 and 19.0 kJ mol−1. Both the power law and exponential type models were employed in order to establish the relationship between concentration and apparent viscosity (ηa,100) in the temperature range of 25–70 °C. Magnitudes of storage (G′) and loss (G″) moduli increased with an increase in the starch concentration and frequency (ω). The magnitudes of G′ were higher than those of G″ over most of the frequency range (0.63–62.8 rad s−1). The dynamic (η*) and steady shear (ηa) viscosities of acorn starch dispersion at 7% concentration follow the Cox–Merz superposition rule.
Combining direct and indirect genetic methods to estimate dispersal for informing wildlife disease management decisions
Authors: CULLINGHAM C. I. , POND B. A. , KYLE C. J. , REES E. E. , ROSATTE R. C. , WHITE B. N.
Published: December 2008

Epidemiological models are useful tools for management to predict and control wildlife disease outbreaks. Dispersal behaviours of the vector are critical in determining patterns of disease spread, and key variables in epidemiological models, yet they are difficult to measure. Raccoon rabies is enzootic over the eastern seaboard of North America and management actions to control its spread are costly. Understanding dispersal behaviours of raccoons can contribute to refining management protocols to reduce economic impacts. Here, estimates of dispersal were obtained through parentage and spatial genetic analyses of raccoons in two areas at the front of the raccoon rabies epizootic in Ontario; Niagara (N = 296) and St Lawrence (N = 593). Parentage analysis indicated the dispersal distance distribution is highly positively skewed with 85% of raccoons, both male and female, moving < 3 km. The tail of this distribution indicated a small proportion (< 4%) moves more than 20 km. Analysis of spatial genetic structure provided a similar assessment as the spatial genetic correlation coefficient dropped sharply after 1 km. Directionality of dispersal would have important implications for control actions; however, evidence of directional bias was not found. Separating the data into age and sex classes the spatial genetic analyses detected female philopatry. Dispersal distances differed significantly between juveniles and adults, while juveniles in the Niagara region were significantly more related to each other than adults were to each other. Factors that may contribute to these differences include kin association, and spring dispersal. Changes to the timing and area covered by rabies control operations in Ontario are indicated based on these dispersal data.
Functional variation in a disease resistance gene in populations of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: JORGENSEN T. H. , EMERSON B. C.
Published: December 2008

Analyses of functional genetic diversity in natural populations may provide important new insights into gene function and are necessary to understand the evolutionary processes maintaining diversity itself. The importance of including diversity within and between local populations in such studies is often ignored although many of the processes affecting genetic diversity act on this scale. Here we examine the molecular diversity in RPW8 (Recognition of Powdery Mildew), a gene conferring broad‐spectrum resistance to powdery mildews in Arabidopsis thaliana stock‐center accessions. Our eight UK study populations of the weedy A. thaliana were from locations judged to be subject to a minimum of anthropogenic disturbance and potentially long established. The majority of populations comprised considerable variation both in disease phenotype and RPW8 genotype. Although resistant individuals shared a major RPW8 genotype, no single allele was uniquely associated with resistance. It is concluded that RPW8 is an essential component of resistance to powdery mildews in A. thaliana, but not the only genetic factor involved in this process. No signature of selection was detected at RPW8 with a microsatellite multilocus test using an empirical null model. Unlike many previous studies of this model plant species, we found high levels of genetic diversity and relatively low differentiation (FST = 0.31) between populations at 14 microsatellite markers. This is judged to be due to our sampling being aimed at potentially long established populations and highlights the importance of population choice for studies of genetic diversity within this species.
Clonal dynamics in western North American aspen (Populus tremuloides)
Authors: MOCK K. E. , ROWE C. A. , HOOTEN M. B. , DEWOODY J. , HIPKINS V. D.
Published: December 2008

Clonality is a common phenomenon in plants, allowing genets to persist asexually for much longer periods of time than ramets. The relative frequency of sexual vs. asexual reproduction determines long‐term dominance and persistence of clonal plants at the landscape scale. One of the most familiar and valued clonal plants in North America is aspen (Populus tremuloides). Previous researchers have suggested that aspen in xeric landscapes of the intermountain west represent genets of great chronological age, maintained via clonal expansion in the near absence of sexual reproduction. We synthesized microsatellite data from 1371 ramets in two large sampling grids in Utah. We found a surprisingly large number of distinct genets, some covering large spatial areas, but most represented by only one to a few individual ramets at a sampling scale of 50 m. In general, multi‐ramet genets were spatially cohesive, although some genets appear to be fragmented remnants of much larger clones. We conclude that recent sexual reproduction in these landscapes is a stronger contributor to standing genetic variation at the population level than the accumulation of somatic mutations, and that even some of the spatially large clones may not be as ancient as previously supposed. Further, a striking majority of the largest genets in both study areas had three alleles at one or more loci, suggesting triploidy or aneuploidy. These genets tended to be spatially clustered but not closely related. Together, these findings substantially advance our understanding of clonal dynamics in western North American aspen, and set the stage for a broad range of future studies.
Imaging T‐cell movement in the brain during experimental cerebral malaria
Authors: ORTOLANO F. , MAFFIA P. , DEVER G. , HUTCHISON S. , BENSON R. , MILLINGTON O. R. , DE SIMONI M. G. , BUSHELL T. J. , GARSIDE P. , CARSWELL H. V. , BREWER J. M.
Published: December 2008

T‐cells are known to play a role in the pathology associated with experimental cerebral malaria, although it has not previously been possible to examine their behaviour in brain. Using multiphoton laser scanning microscopy, we have examined the migration and movement of these cells in brain tissue. We believe that this approach will help define host–parasite interactions and examine how intervening in these relationships affects the development of cerebral pathology.
BTB and TAZ domain scaffold proteins perform a crucial function in Arabidopsis development
Authors: Robert Hélène S. , Quint Ab , Brand Daan , Vivian‐Smith Adam , Offringa Remko
Published: December 2008

In Arabidopsis, bric‐a‐brac, tramtrack and broad (BTB) domain scaffold proteins form a family of 80 proteins that have involvement in various signaling pathways. The five members of the subfamily of BTB AND TAZ DOMAIN proteins (BT1–BT5) have a typical domain structure that is only observed in land plants. Here, we present a functional analysis of the BT family, of which at least four members are encoded by auxin‐responsive genes. BT1 is a short‐lived protein that is characteristically targeted for degradation by the 26S proteasome. Expression pattern, gene structure and sequence analyses indicate that BT1 and BT2 are closely related. They both localize to the nucleus and the cytosol, whereas the remaining BT proteins were determined as cytosolic proteins. Detailed molecular and phenotypic analysis of plants segregating for null mutations in the BT family revealed substantial redundancy among the BT members, and highlighted that BT proteins perform crucial roles in both male and female gametophyte development. BT2 seems to be the predominant gene in this process, in which it is functionally replaced by BT3 and BT1 through reciprocal transcription regulation. Compensational expression alters the steady‐state mRNA levels among the remaining BT family members when other BT members are lost, and this contributes towards functional redundancy. Our data provide a surprising example of functional redundancy among genes required during gametophyte development, something that could not be detected in the current screens for gametophyte mutants.
Highly specific gene silencing by artificial microRNAs in the unicellular alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Molnar Attila , Bassett Andrew , Thuenemann Eva , Schwach Frank , Karkare Shantanu , Ossowski Stephan , Weigel Detlef , Baulcombe David
Published: December 2008

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNAs, 21 to 22 nucleotides long, with important regulatory roles. They are processed from longer RNA molecules with imperfectly matched foldback regions and they function in modulating the stability and translation of mRNA. Recently, we and others have demonstrated that the unicellular alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, like diverse multicellular organisms, contains miRNAs. These RNAs resemble the miRNAs of land plants in that they direct site‐specific cleavage of target mRNA with miRNA‐complementary motifs and, presumably, act as regulatory molecules in growth and development. Utilizing these findings we have developed a novel artificial miRNA system based on ligation of DNA oligonucleotides that can be used for specific high‐throughput gene silencing in green algae.
Identification and Genomic Variability of Prune dwarf virus Variants Infecting Stone Fruit Trees in Turkey
Authors: Ulubaş Serçe Ç. , Ertunç F. , ÖZtürk A.
Published: December 2008

Prune dwarf virus (PDV), a pathogen of stone fruit trees worldwide, shows a great variability in its biological, serological and molecular properties. The coat protein sequences of ten PDV variants from different stone fruit tree species in Turkey were determined. The sequence for each variant was 657 nucleotides in length. The phylogenetic analyses of the sequences of the Turkish variants and of additional sequences of other PDV variants from international databases indicate the existence of four groups of PDV variants: one contains cherry variants that differs in group specific conserved amino acids; a second contains one apricot and cherry variants, most members of the group being Turkish variants; a third contains mixed variants from cherry, peach, plum trees and an almond tree; and a fourth contains only variants from almond trees. Based on their hosts, we propose the nomenclature of these groups as cherry I, cherry II, mixed and almond groups, respectively.
Priapism Secondary to Perineal Abscess in a Dog – A Case Report
Authors: Martins‐Bessa A , Santos T , Machado J , Pinelas R , Pires MA , Payan‐Carreira R
Published: December 2008

Contents

A 7‐year‐old intact male Boxer was referred to our services at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of Trás‐os‐Montes and Alto Douro, suffering from a persistently erect penis (including thebulbus glandis) that had been exposed for several days. Radiographic and ultrasonographic examinations detected a 5.0 × 3.5 cm mass located dorso‐laterally to the urinary bladder. The microbial culture of the mass revealedStaphylococcusspp. At that time, we suspected the involvement of an abscess in the origin of the priapism. Medical and surgical treatments were promptly instituted, which allowed for penile withdrawal into the prepuce; however, the resolution of the penile erection was not accomplished in the following days and penile amputation was required. Histological evaluation of the excised penis revealed extensive infarction of the erectile tissue of thepars longaandbulbus glandis, and also of the blood vessels of the penis. Following penile amputation and antimicrobial therapy, the animal fully recovered. Ultimately, the animal died as a consequence of gastric torsion. At necropsy, some lesions compatible with a previous perforation of the intestinal wall were recorded. The data gathered from the anamnesis, the physical and imaging examinations, along with thepost‐mortemfindings, allowed us to conclude that in this clinical case the primary cause of priapism was a perineal abscess due to bowel perforation.
Growth inhibitory action of cranberry on Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Matsushima Masashi , Suzuki Takayoshi , Masui Aya , Kasai Kouichi , Kouchi Tomoko , Takagi Atsushi , Shirai Takayuki , Mine Tetsuya
Published: December 2008

Background and Aim:  Cranberry is a fruit that originated in North America, and it has been used by Native Americans for bacterial infections. Recent studies have revealed it to be effective for preventing refractory urinary infections, while also suggesting that it plays a possible role in the eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).

Methods:  The H. pylori strains used in the present study were NCTC11637 and 11638. Sugar and organic acid‐rich, and polyphenol‐rich fractions were obtained from cranberry juice concentrate by Amberlite XAD7HP‐column chromatography. The H. pylori growth inhibition was estimated by OD660 and titration in liquid culture, and by an agar dilution plate method. The shapes of the bacteria were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy.

Results:  Cranberry extract suppressed bacterial proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner. In the comparison with other juices, polyphenol‐rich fruits (cranberries, blueberries, and red grapes) showed similar growth inhibitory activity, whereas polyphenol‐poor fruits (oranges, pineapples, apples, and white grapes) did not show any activity. The polyphenol‐rich fraction of cranberry maintained the H. pylori‐growth inhibitory activity. More bacteria in a coccoid form were observed after culture with cranberry.

Conclusion:  Cranberry extract inhibited H. pylori proliferation and it is suggested that polyphenols are responsible for this action. The morphological analysis suggested that cranberry induces H. pylori to develop a coccoid form, thereby inhibiting its growth bacteriostatically. Further basic studies to clarify these mechanisms in combination with in vivo studies are needed.
Elevated adiponectin serum levels in patients with chronic alcohol abuse rapidly decline during alcohol withdrawal
Authors: Buechler Christa , Schäffler Andreas , Johann Monika , Neumeier Markus , Köhl Philip , Weiss Thomas , Wodarz Norbert , Kiefer Paul , Hellerbrand Claus
Published: December 2008

Background:  Adiponectin is a circulating protein with hepatoprotective effects.

Aims:  To study the relationship of excessive alcohol consumption and serum adiponectin levels (SAL).

Patients and Methods:  The SAL were determined in (i) heavy drinkers without advanced liver damage during the course of alcohol withdrawal, (ii) patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, (iii) patients with alcohol‐associated cirrhosis, and (iv) healthy volunteers that consumed excessive amounts of alcohol for only a short period of time. Further, primary human hepatocytes (PHH) and adipocytes were incubated in vitro with alcohol or serum of patients.

Results:  Patients with chronic alcohol consumption had significantly higher SAL than HCV‐patients with comparable degrees of liver damage. In alcoholics, but not in HCV patients, SAL positively correlated with serum levels of aminotransferases. Further, SAL correlated with the amount of alcohol consumption but declined during the course of alcohol abstinence. After short‐term excessive alcohol consumption SAL were not elevated in healthy individuals. Adiponectin mRNA was detectable in adipocytes but not in hepatocytes, and alcohol failed to induce adiponectin in both cell types. In contrast, serum of active drinkers induced adiponectin expression in adipocytes while serum from the same individuals collected after alcohol withdrawal had no effect.

Conclusions:  Alcohol exhibits a specific effect on SAL that is dose and time dependent, and correlates with the degree of hepatic damage. Alcohol does not seem to affect adiponectin expression directly in adipocytes but potentially via mediators systemically released as a result of the chronic alcohol intake.
Effect of a lifestyle intervention in patients with abnormal liver enzymes and metabolic risk factors
Authors: St. George Alexis , Bauman Adrian , Johnston Amanda , Farrell Geoffrey , Chey Tien , George Jacob
Published: December 2008

Background and Aim:  Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease associated with insulin resistance is the most common cause of abnormal liver tests in clinical practice. To date, practical and effective strategies to improve the metabolic profile of this large group of patients have not been well characterised. We sought to assess the effect at 3 months of a behavior change‐based lifestyle intervention on the metabolic profile of patients characterised by elevated liver enzymes.

Methods:  A total of 152 patients with elevated liver enzymes, central obesity and a range of metabolic risk factors were randomised to either a moderate‐ (6 sessions/10 weeks) or low‐intensity (3 sessions/4 weeks) lifestyle counselling intervention or control group.

Results:  There was improvement in all metabolic risk factors in the moderate‐intensity group, versus a smaller number of changes in the low‐intensity intervention group and no change in any metabolic risk factors in control subjects. Reduction in liver enzymes was greatest in the moderate‐intensity intervention group and least in the control group. The likelihood of elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in both the moderate and low‐intensity groups was reduced by over 70% compared to controls. The proportion of subjects achieving weight loss (≥ 2%) was significantly higher in the moderate‐intensity intervention group (66%) versus the low‐intensity intervention group (39%; P < 0.05) and controls (29%; P < 0.001).

Conclusions:  Moderate and even low‐intensity lifestyle counselling interventions targeting improvement in physical activity and nutritional behaviors and modest weight loss are a practical and effective method for improving the health of patients with elevated liver enzymes and a range of metabolic risk factors.
Coronary calcification and its association with mortality in haemodialysis patients
Authors: FENSTERSEIFER DANIELE M , KAROHL CRISTINA , SCHVARTZMAN PAULO , COSTA CÉSAR AR , VERONESE FRANCISCO JV
Published: December 2008

Aim:  Coronary artery calcification (CAC) has been associated with higher mortality in chronic renal disease. The purpose of this study was to assess coronary artery calcium score (CaCs) in haemodialysis patients and to correlate calcium scores with clinical parameters and mortality.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional study was conducted in 59 haemodialysis patients. CaCs was assessed by multidetector‐row computed tomography and stratified as: CaCs of less than 10 Agatston units (U), no calcification; CaCs of 10–400 U, mild‐to‐moderate; and CaCs of more than 400 U, severe calcification. The effects of age, haemodialysis duration and biochemical and inflammatory markers on CaCs logarithm were evaluated by multiple linear regression analysis. Cox regression analysis was used to measure the impact of CaCs of more than 400 on 2‐year mortality.

Results:  Coronary calcifications were detected in 64.5% of patients, and the median of CaCs was 31.7 U (0–589.7) with a range of 0–5790.0 U. Twenty‐one (35.5%) patients had mild‐to‐moderate and 17 (29%) severe CaCs. Patients with severe CaCs were older and showed a higher prevalence of ischaemic heart disease and a higher body mass index (P = 0.04). A trend towards higher C‐reactive protein levels was found in patients with severe CaCs. Advanced age was the only variable that influenced CaCs logarithm independently. The effect of severe CaCs on 2‐year mortality did not persist after adjustment for other covariates.

Conclusion:  Coronary calcification was highly prevalent in these uraemic patients on chronic haemodialysis. A correlation was evidenced between CaCs and advanced age, but severity of the CAC score did not have an impact on 2‐year mortality of this cohort.
Sequential Renography in Acute Urinary Tract Obstruction due to Stone Disease
Authors: KELLEHER J. P. , PLAIL R. O. , DAVE S. M. , CUNNINGHAM D. A. , SNELL M. E. , WITHEROW R. O'N.
Published: December 2008

Summary— A group of 76 patients with urographically proven acute calculus obstruction was studied prospectively using 99mTc‐DTPA renography to see if kidneys at risk of irreversible renal damage could be identified. There was a statistically significant relationship between the presence of obstruction on renography and the subsequent requirement for intervention, but not with the degree of obstruction (partial or severe). Stones over 5 mm in size are highly likely to cause obstruction, a drop in relative renal function and require intervention. In all, 14 patients sustained a drop in relative renal function of <7%on renography and 12 of these returned to normal limits when their calculi had been passed or removed. The 2 kidneys whose function remained impaired had fallen below 25% of overall renal function and both patients had received prior treatment for their calculi. No patient who presented de novo suffered any permanent loss of ipsilateral renal function. The results confirm that the criteria for intervention were well founded and emphasise the importance of achieving a stone‐free state after primary treatment. Renography is recommended for stones over 5 mm in size, those in the middle and upper ureter and for those patients discharged with a stone in situ.
Is there a Place for Conservative Surgery in the Treatment of Renal Carcinoma?
Authors: Van POPPEL H. , CLAES H. , WILLEMEN P. , OYEN R. , BAERT L.
Published: December 2008

Summary— Since 1981, 31 patients have undergone conservative surgery for malignant renal tumours and have been followed up for at least 2 years. The techniques included enucleation or resection (wedge resection or partial nephrectomy).

In 10 patients the indications for kidney‐sparing surgery were absolute, while in the remainder the conservative surgical approach was a deliberate choice. The tumours varied in diameter from 1.3 to 12 cm and no metastases were detected on pre‐operative screening.

One patient died post‐operatively from myocardial infarction. In the remaining 30 there were no local recurrences. Two patients died from skeletal metastases (1 with bilateral malignancy) and 2 underwent surgery in the post‐operative period for haemorrhagic complications.

The efficacy of conservative surgery in the local control of renal cancer is an argument in favour of its wider use.
Histopathological “Self Control” in Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumours
Authors: KOLOZSY Z.
Published: December 2008

Summary— Between 1979 and 1989, 462 bladder tumours were resected in 319 patients using the differentiated technique. After transurethral resection (TU R) that was considered optically to be complete, histopathological examination of the specimen revealed residual tumour in 35% of cases. The danger of insufficient resection increases in relation to the depth of infiltration (pT) and is closely associated with the growth pattern of the tumour. The differentiated form of TUR is important in determining the depth of infiltration, peripheral expansion of the tumour and the completeness of removal.
Diagnosis of Chronic Abacterial Prostato‐vesiculitis by Rectal Ultrasonography in Relation to Symptoms and Findings
Authors: CHRISTIANSEN E. , PURVIS K.
Published: December 2008

Summary— A group of 36 men with chronic abacterial prostato‐vesiculitis, confirmed by semen analysis and rectal ultrasonography, underwent detailed anamnesis and clinical examination. There was no clear relationship between the severity of the symptoms or the presence of leucocytes and the extent of the changes visualised by ultrasound. In 72% of cases, clinical examination also revealed signs of a previous epididymitis. In general, asymmetry in symptoms could be related to glandular pathology, as indicated by ultrasonography, on the ipsilateral side.
Dilatation of the Prostatic Urethra with 35 mm Balloon
Authors: McLOUGHLIN J. , KEANE P. F. , JAGER R. , GILL K. P. , MACHANN L. , WILLIAMS GORDON
Published: December 2008

Summary— A series of 54 men, 25 with acute urinary retention and 29 with cystometrically proven bladder outflow obstruction (BOO), underwent dilatation of the prostatic urethra using a 35 mm fixed diameter, low compliance balloon. In 42 patients this was performed under cystoscopic guidance and in 12 patients under fluoroscopic control.

Three months following dilatation, 13/27 patients (48%) with BOO who returned for review were rendered unobstructed and 19/27 (70%) were symptomatically improved. By 6 months only 3 remained unobstructed but 15 remained symptomatically improved. Nine months after dilatation 14 patients retained symptomatic improvement but only 2 remained unobstructed. Of the 25 patients treated for acute retention only 6 voided spontaneously, 1 of these relapsing into retention at 2 months and another at 4 months. No patient was rendered unobstructed but 2 patients (who declined prostatectomy) noted an improvement in their obstructive symptoms at both 3 and 6 months. No patient developed retrograde ejaculation following dilatation.

Balloon dilatation to 35 mm has no role in acute urinary retention but may have a role in younger men with BOO who wish to avoid prostatectomy and the risk of retrograde ejaculation. In these patients careful follow‐up is required.
Urological Manifestations of HIV‐related Disease
Authors: GREEN S. T. , NATHWANI D. , GOLDBERG D. J. , PATERSON P. J. , KENNEDY D. H.
Published: December 2008

Summary— A wide variety of pathologies afflicting the genitourinary tract can be displayed by patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), including both infective and neoplastic conditions. Treatment can often be offered for such conditions using a combination of therapeutic approaches. These conditions should be looked for specifically in patients with HIV infection as treatment may improve their quality of life. A case is presented of a testicular seminoma (appearing in association with an intracranial mass and Kaposi's sarcoma) in a male patient with the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS); he made a good response to orchiectomy and radiotherapy for his seminoma.

A short review is also given of the range of HIV‐associated genitourinary pathologies which have been described to date.
Spontaneous Rupture of Hydronephrotic Kidney during Pregnancy
Authors: HALABI D. A. R. EL , HUMAYUN M. S. , SHARHA'AN J. M.
Published: December 2008

Rupture of the urinary tract during pregnancy is uncommon. Pyelonephritis, painful overdistension and rupture are occasional effects of pregnancy on the urinary tract. We present a case of spontaneous rupture of a hydronephrotic kidney in a pregnant woman.
Staghorn Calculi—Long‐term Results of Management
Authors: KOGA S. , ARAKAKI Y. , MATSUOKA M. , OHYAMA C.
Published: December 2008

Summary— We have treated 167 patients with staghorn calculi. Conservative therapy was used in 61 patients who have been followed up for 1 to 18 years (average 7.8). Chronic renal failure occurred in 22 of these patients and 7 died from uraemia. The causes of chronic renal failure were bilateral staghorn calculi, staghorn calculi and contralateral urinary calculi, and chronic pyelonephritis of the contralateral kidney. The morbidity and mortality rates following conservative treatment were higher than those following surgical management. The pathological findings in 47 kidneys after nephrectomy showed severe hydronephrosis, renal abscess and xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis. These results indicated that staghorn calculi destroyed the kidney and early complete removal of these stones is advisable.
Inhibition by Sodium‐potassium Citrate (CG‐120) of Calcium Oxalate Crystal Growth on to Kidney Stone Fragments Obtained from Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy
Authors: SUZUKI K. , TSUGAWA R. , RYALL ROSEMARY L.
Published: December 2008

Summary— Retention of fragments within the kidney after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) continues to be a major shortcoming of this form of stone treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of sodium‐potassium citrate to inhibit calcium oxalate crystal nucleation and growth on to stone fragments remaining after ESWL. The continuous flow crystallisation technique was adapted to induce calcium oxalate crystal nucleation and growth on to the surface of fragmented kidney stones and the inhibitory effect of sodium‐potassium citrate was assessed by scanning electron microscopy and by determining the relative increase in crystalline mass at final concentrations of 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 mmol/l.

Sodium‐potassium citrate significantly inhibited the deposition of new crystalline calcium oxalate in a dose‐dependent manner above 2 mmol/l; these findings were confirmed by scanning electron microscopy.

It was concluded that sodium‐potassium citrate may provide an effective means of preventing the formation of new kidney stones by the deposition of calcium oxalate on to residual stone fragments resulting from ESWL and that the technique used is an efficient means of testing the efficacy of therapeutic agents to prevent stone recurrence in patients treated with ESWL.
Single‐increment Dilatation for Percutaneous Renal Surgery: An Experimental Study
Authors: TRAVIS D. G. , TAN H. L. , WEBB D. R.
Published: December 2008

Summary— Renal nephrostomy track dilatation is an integral part of percutaneous renal surgery. The traditional method has employed sequential dilators of increasing size, or balloon dilatation. This study used a canine model to investigate the effects of single‐increment renal track dilatation to 24 F and compares it with the conventional techniques. Single‐increment dilatation proved to be a safe technique with minimal haemorrhage or parenchymal damage and healing at 6 weeks by a fine linear scar. It was as safe as conventional techniques. We believe this study proves that single‐stage dilatation is a safe technique for use in humans.