bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peripheral Immune Response in Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Aktas E. , Ciftci F. , Bilgic S. , Sezer O. , Bozkanat E. , Deniz O. , Citici U. , Deniz G.
Published: June 2009

Cellular immune response and delayed‐type hypersensitivity reactions are considered to play a major role in the immunopathogenesis of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). But the exact mechanism is still to be clarified. Th1 cells are mainly involved in cellular immune responses in PTB and provide a normal healing process with minimal or no sequela whereas Th2 cell and CD8+ T lymphocyte responses may lead to more severe type of disease. In this study, we investigated the peripheral blood immune responses in PTB. The study group consisted of acid fast positive young male soldiers with PTB and a negative HIV serology. The control group included healthy young volunteer male soldiers without a history of PTB. Intracytoplasmic cytokine content of CD8+ T cells and lymphocytes, including IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐10 and IFN‐γ were determined by flow cytometry, and IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐10, IFN‐γ and TNF‐α serum levels were measured by cytometric bead array (CBA). No difference was observed between the percentages of T, B, NK cells and HLA‐DR expression in both groups, however, the number of CD3+HLA‐DR+ activated T cell percentages was higher in PTB group as compared to healthy subjects. IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐10 contents of lymphocytes and IFN‐γ+CD8+ T cells were found to be significantly lower in PTB patients when compared with healthy subjects, and in parallel, serum IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐5 and TNF‐α levels were also significantly lower in PTB patients. In conclusion we suggest that, CD8+ T cells producing both Th1 and Th2 type cytokines, may play important role in the peripheral immune response to mycobacteria.
Systematic re‐appraisal of the gall‐usurping wasp genus Synophrus Hartig, 1843 (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae: Synergini)
Authors: PÉNZES ZSOLT , MELIKA GEORGE , BOZSÓKI ZOLTÁN , BIHARI PÉTER , MIKÓ ISTVÁN , TAVAKOLI MAJID , PUJADE‐VILLAR JULI , FEHÉR BALÁZS , FÜLÖP DÁVID , SZABÓ KRISZTIÁN , BOZSÓ MIKLÓS , SIPOS BOTOND , SOMOGYI KÁLMÁN , STONE GRAHAM N.
Published: June 2009

Several unanswered questions remain regarding the taxonomy and phylogeny of inquiline gallwasps (Cynipidae: Synergini), obligate inhabitants of plant galls induced primarily by other gallwasps (Cynipidae: Cynipini and Diplolepidini). Here we use morphological and molecular data to revise the inquiline genus Synophrus, members of which are notable for extensively modifying the structure of galls induced by oak gallwasp hosts on oaks in the section Cerris of Quercus subgenus Quercus in the Western Palaearctic. Previous taxonomic treatments have recognized three Western Palaearctic species of Synophrus: S. pilulae, S. politus and S. olivieri. Our results support the establishment of four additional Western Palaearctic species: Synophrus hungaricussp.n., S. libanisp.n., S. syriacussp.n. and S. hispanicussp.n. We describe and diagnose these new taxa, analyse their phylogenetic relationships, and show that Synophrus inquilines are able to impose their own gall phenotypes on those of their hosts. We provide an updated key to Synophrus.
Morpho‐tectonic evolution of the Crimean mountains (Ukraine) as constrained by apatite fission track data
Authors: Pánek Tomáš , Danišík Martin , Hradecký Jan , Frisch Wolfgang
Published: June 2009

Apatite fission track thermochronology (AFT) is used to investigate the low‐temperature thermal evolution of the Crimean Mountains and provide new insights into the geodynamic and geomorphic evolution of the westernmost tip of the Caucasus–Crimean fold‐and‐thrust belt. The vast majority of the samples taken from Jurassic sedimentary and magmatic rocks revealed AFT ages in the range of 51–32 Ma. These ages, together with modelled cooling paths, show that the mountain range experienced a thermal overprint after the Late Cimmerian orogeny. We interpret the overprint in terms of the burial of Cimmerian structures by a thick pile (>4 km) of platform sediments during Early Cretaceous–Late Eocene times. This scenario implies that highly elevated palaeosurfaces of Early Cretaceous age survived in large part because of the protection provided by thick accumulations of platform deposits. Since final uplift in the middle Pliocene, the palaeosurfaces have been significantly degraded and dissected by fluvial incision and large‐scale landslides.
The Arabidopsis TSPO‐related protein is a stress and abscisic acid‐regulated, endoplasmic reticulum–Golgi‐localized membrane protein
Authors: Guillaumot Damien , Guillon Stéphanie , Déplanque Thomas , Vanhee Celine , Gumy Christophe , Masquelier Danièle , Morsomme Pierre , Batoko Henri
Published: June 2009

The Arabidopsis geneAt2g47770encodes a membrane‐bound protein designated AtTSPO (Arabidopsis thalianaTSPO‐related). AtTSPO is related to the bacterial outer membrane tryptophan‐rich sensory protein (TspO) and the mammalian mitochondrial 18‐kDa translocator protein (18 kDa TSPO), members of the group of TspO/MBR domain‐containing membrane proteins. In this study we show that AtTSPO is mainly detected in dry seeds, but can be induced in vegetative tissues by osmotic or salt stress or abscisic acid (ABA) treatment, corroborating available transcriptome data. Using subcellular fractionation, immunocytochemistry and fluorescent protein tagging approaches we present evidence that AtTSPO is targeted to the secretory pathway in plants. Induced or constitutively expressed AtTSPO can be detected in the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi stacks of plant cells. AtTSPO tagged with fluorescent protein in transgenic plants (Arabidopsis and tobacco) was mainly detected in the Golgi stacks of leaf epidermal cells. Constitutive expression of AtTSPO resulted in increased sensitivity to NaCl, but not to osmotic stress, and in reduced greening of cultured Arabidopsis cells under light growing conditions. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing AtTSPO were more sensitive to ABA‐induced growth inhibition, indicating that constitutive expression of AtTSPO may enhance ABA sensitivity. AtTSPO is rapidly downregulated during seed imbibition, and the ABA‐dependent induction in plant is transient. Downregulation of AtTSPO seems to be boosted by treatment with aminolevulinic acid. Taken together, these results suggest that AtTSPO is a highly regulated protein, induced by abiotic stress to modulate, at least in part, transient intracellular ABA‐dependent stress perception and/or signalling.
Unequally redundant RCD1 and SRO1 mediate stress and developmental responses and interact with transcription factors
Authors: Jaspers Pinja , Blomster Tiina , Brosché Mikael , Salojärvi Jarkko , Ahlfors Reetta , Vainonen Julia P. , Reddy Ramesha A. , Immink Richard , Angenent Gerco , Turck Franziska , Overmyer Kirk , Kangasjärvi Jaakko
Published: June 2009

RADICAL‐INDUCED CELL DEATH1 (RCD1) is an important regulator of stress and hormonal and developmental responses in Arabidopsis thaliana. Together with its closest homolog, SIMILAR TO RCD‐ONE1 (SRO1), it is the only Arabidopsis protein containing the WWE domain, which is known to mediate protein–protein interactions in other organisms. Additionally, these two proteins contain the core catalytic region of poly‐ADP‐ribose transferases and a conserved C‐terminal domain. Tissue and subcellular localization data indicate that RCD1 and SRO1 have partially overlapping functions in plant development. In contrast mutant data indicate that rcd1 has defects in plant development, whereas sro1 displays normal development. However, the rcd1 sro1 double mutant has severe growth defects, indicating that RCD1 and SRO1 exemplify an important genetic principle – unequal genetic redundancy. A large pair‐wise interaction test against the REGIA transcription factor collection revealed that RCD1 interacts with a large number of transcription factors belonging to several protein families, such as AP2/ERF, NAC and basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH), and that SRO1 interacts with a smaller subset of these. Full genome array analysis indicated that in many cases targets of these transcription factors have altered expression in the rcd1 but not the sro1 mutant. Taken together RCD1 and SRO1 are required for proper plant development.
Adherence to artesunate–amodiaquine combination therapy for uncomplicated malaria in children in Zanzibar, Tanzania
Authors: Beer Netta , Ali Abdullah S. , Rotllant Guida , Abass Ali K. , Omari Rahila S. , Al‐mafazy Abdul‐wahiyd H. , Björkman Anders , Källander Karin
Published: June 2009

Objectives  To estimate caretaker adherence to co‐blistered, but not co‐formulated, artesunate‐amodiaquine (AsAq) for uncomplicated malaria and identify factors associated with caretaker adherence.

Methods  Cross sectional household survey of caretakers of 210 children under 5 years of age who had been prescribed and dispensed AsAq at 21 public health facilities (HFs). The caretakers were interviewed in their homes on the 4th day of receiving the 3 day treatment. Adherence of caretakers was assessed by self report and pill count.

Results  Caretaker adherence to AsAq was 77% (95% CI: 67%–87%). Non‐adherence resulted in under‐dosing ¾ of the time and was most often in the form of wrong daily doses due to misunderstanding or forgetting the correct dose regimens. Predictors of adherence were education exceeding 7 years (OR = 5.08, P = 0.008) and receiving the exact number of pills to complete the treatment regimen (OR = 4.09, P = 0.006). All caretakers of children who were administered the first dose at the HF had adhered to the treatment.

Conclusion  We found moderate levels of caretaker adherence to AsAq. Further improvement could be achieved by producing dose‐specific packaging for infants, providing clear instructions and giving the first dose under observation at the HF.
Virological evaluation of domestic water purification devices commonly used in India emphasizes inadequate quality and need for virological standards
Authors: Verma Vikram , Arankalle Vidya A.
Published: June 2009

Objectives  To evaluate the performance of domestic water purification units with respect to contaminating enteric viruses.

Methods  Eight domestic water purification systems widely used in India were evaluated using hepatitis E virus (HEV) as a model virus. For HEV concentration and detection, membrane filtration and real‐time PCR were used respectively. Viral log reduction value (LRV) was calculated for each unit.

Results  Viral log reduction value was 0.21 for unit 6 (polyester + carbon), 1.45 for unit 4 (filter + UV), 1.52 for unit 3 (filter + chlorine), 1.70 for a carbon + exhaust indication contact disinfection unit, 2.20 for an iodine resin unit, 2.51 for a dual filter unit and 6.53 for a hollow fibre membrane unit and a gravity‐fed filter unit. Thus, only the technologies employed by the latter two were efficient in complete removal of HEV.

Conclusions  The majority of the water purifiers under use are inadequate. Virological standards in evaluating such devices need to be established urgently, in order to help manufacturers to improve the performance of such products and most importantly, to help consumers.
Tepoxalin reduces pruritus and modified CADESI‐01 scores in dogs with atopic dermatitis: a prospective, randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over study
Authors: Horvath‐Ungerboeck Christa , Thoday Keith L. , Shaw Darren J. , Van Den Broek Adri H. M.
Published: June 2009

Thirty dogs with atopic dermatitis were given tepoxalin (Zubrin®, Intervet/Schering‐Plough Animal Health, Boxmeer, the Netherlands) or placebo once daily for 4 weeks, followed by a wash‐out period of 1 week before reversing the treatments. Pruritus was scored by the owners using the Edinburgh Pruritus Scale and one investigator employed a modification of the Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index‐01 (mCADESI‐01) to score the physical lesions. After administration of tepoxalin there was a ≥ 50% reduction in pruritus and mCADESI‐01 scores in 36% and 25% of the dogs, respectively, whereas following administration of the placebo there was a ≥ 50% reduction in pruritus and mCADESI‐01 scores in only 25% and 16% of the dogs, respectively. Analysis of pooled data indicated that tepoxalin resulted in a significant reduction in pruritus (P = 0.012) and mCADESI‐01 (P = 0.002) scores but there was no significant change after placebo. The median pruritus scores before and after tepoxalin were 2 (range 1–5) and 1 (range 0–5), respectively, and before and after placebo were 2 (range 0–4) and 2 (range 0–4), respectively. The median mCADESI scores before and after tepoxalin were 23 (range 0–68) and 16 (range 0–72), respectively, and before and after placebo were 18 (range 3–79) and 24 (range 0–65), respectively. At the dose used in this study (10.0–19.1 mg kg−1), tepoxalin was well‐tolerated and no adverse effects were noted.
CNS and lung metastasis of sebaceous epithelioma in a dog
Authors: Bettini Giuliano , Morini Maria , Mandrioli Luciana , Capitani Ombretta , Gandini Gualtiero
Published: June 2009

Sebaceous epithelioma is a common canine cutaneous neoplasm characterized by a preponderance of basaloid cells with few well‐differentiated sebocytes. It is considered a low‐grade malignancy, as it may occasionally recur at the excision site; the possibility of lymph node metastasis is anecdotally reported, and distant metastases have never been observed. This case report presents the clinical and pathological features of a sebaceous epithelioma of the upper lip with a highly aggressive behaviour. The patient was a 9‐year‐old female dachshund that developed local recurrence 11 months after the excision of the primary sebaceous epithelioma and multiple lung and central nervous system metastases 5 months later. The designation epitheliomatous sebaceous carcinoma has been suggested for aggressive sebaceous epitheliomas, although differential criteria are still to be determined.
Identification of critical regions for clinical features of distal 10q deletion syndrome
Authors: Yatsenko SA , Kruer MC , Bader PI , Corzo D , Schuette J , Keegan CE , Nowakowska B , Peacock S , Cai WW , Peiffer DA , Gunderson KL , Ou Z , Chinault AC , Cheung SW
Published: June 2009

Array comparative genomic hybridization studies were performed to further characterize cytogenetic abnormalities found originally by karyotype and fluorescence in situ hybridization in five clinical cases of distal 10q deletions, including several with complex cytogenetic rearrangements and one with a partial male‐to‐female sex‐reversal phenotype. These results have enabled us to narrow the previously proposed critical regions for the craniofacial, urogenital, and neuropsychiatric disease‐related manifestations associated with distal 10q deletion syndrome. Furthermore, we propose that haploinsufficiency of the DOCK1 gene may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of the 10q deletion syndrome. We hypothesize that alteration of DOCK1 and/or other genes involved in regulation and signaling of multiple pathways can explain the wide range of phenotypic variability between patients with similar or identical cytogenetic abnormalities.
Decreasing unpalatable flavonoid components in Citrus: the effect of transformation construct
Authors: Koca Ufuk , Berhow Mark A. , Febres Vicente J. , Champ Karen I. , Carrillo‐Mendoza Omar , Moore Gloria A.
Published: June 2009

Citrus species accumulate large quantities of flavanone glycosides in their leaves and fruit. The physiological role(s) of these compounds in citrus plants are unknown, but they have been documented to benefit human health upon consumption. Flavanone rutinosides are tasteless, whereas flavanone neohesperidosides, such as naringin, give a bitter taste to fruit and fruit juice products, reducing their palatability. In an effort to alter the types and levels of flavanone neohesperidosides in citrus, an Agrobacterium‐mediated genetic transformation approach was employed. Citrus paradisi Macf. (grapefruit) epicotyl stem segments were transformed with sense (S) and antisense (AS) constructs of the target genes chalcone synthase (CHS) and chalcone isomerase (CHI), whose products catalyze the first two steps in the flavonoid biosynthetic pathway. Transformation with each of the individual constructs led to a different and unpredictable combination of viability, phenotypic change, transgene steady‐state expression and alteration in flavonoid content in the resulting transgenic plants. These qualities were consistent within the transgenic plants obtained using any particular construct. Transgenic plants with decreased leaf naringin levels were obtained, particularly when the CHS‐AS constructs were employed.
The diversification of mate preferences by natural and sexual selection
Authors: RUNDLE H. D. , CHENOWETH S. F. , BLOWS M. W.
Published: June 2009

The evolution of sexual display traits or preferences for them in response to divergent natural selection will alter sexual selection within populations, yet the role of sexual selection in ecological speciation has received little empirical attention. We evolved 12 populations ofDrosophila serratain a two‐way factorial design to investigate the roles of natural and sexual selection in the evolution of female mate preferences for male cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs). Mate preferences weakened in populations evolving under natural selection alone, implying a cost in the absence of their expression. Comparison of the vectors of linear sexual selection revealed that the populations diverged in the combination of male CHCs that females found most attractive, although this was not significant using a mixed modelling approach. Changes in preference direction tended to evolve when natural and sexual selection were unconstrained, suggesting that both processes may be the key to initial stages of ecological speciation. Determining the generality of this result will require data from various species across a range of novel environments.
Eusociality and the success of the termites: insights from a supertree of dictyopteran families
Authors: DAVIS R. B. , BALDAUF S. L. , MAYHEW P. J.
Published: June 2009

Sociality in insects may negatively impact on species richness. We tested whether termites have experienced shifts in diversification rates through time. Supertree methods were used to synthesize family‐level relationships within termites, cockroaches and mantids. A deep positive shift in diversification rate is found within termites, but not in the cockroaches from which they evolved. The shift is responsible for most of their extant species richness suggesting that eusociality is not necessarily detrimental to species richness, and may sometimes have a positive effect. Mechanistic studies of speciation and extinction in eusocial insects are advocated.
Prion removal effect of a specific affinity ligand introduced into the manufacturing process of the pharmaceutical quality solvent/detergent (S/D)‐treated plasma OctaplasLG®
Authors: Neisser‐Svae A. , Bailey A. , Gregori L. , Heger A. , Jordan S. , Behizad M. , Reichl H. , Römisch J. , Svae T.‐E.
Published: June 2009

Background and Objectives  A new chromatographic step for the selective binding of abnormal prion protein (PrPSc) was developed, and optimization for PrPSc capture was achieved by binding to an affinity ligand attached to synthetic resin particles. This step was implemented into the manufacturing process of the solvent/detergent (S/D)‐treated biopharmaceutical quality plasma Octaplas® to further improve the safety margin in terms of risk for variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (vCJD) transmission.

Materials and Methods  Intermediates and Octaplas® final container material, spiked with hamster brain‐derived PrPSc‐containing fractions, were used for experiments to establish the feasibility of introducing this novel chromatography step. The binding capacity per millilitre of ligand gel was determined under the selected manufacturing conditions. In addition, the specificity of the ligand gel to bind PrPSc from human sources was investigated. A validated Western blot test was used for the identification and quantification of PrPSc.

Results  A reduction factor of ≥ 3·0 log10 could be demonstrated by Western blotting, utilizing the relevant Octaplas® matrix from manufacturing. In this particular cell‐free plasma solution, the PrPSc binding capacity of the selected gel was very high (≥ 6 log10 ID50/ml, equivalent to roughly 10 log10 ID50/column at manufacturing scale). The gel binds specifically PrPSc from both animal (hamster and mouse) and human (sporadic and variant CJD) sources.

Conclusion  This new single‐use, disposable PrPSc‐harvesting gel ensures a very high capacity in terms of removing the pathogenic agent causing vCJD from the new generation OctaplasLG®, in the event that prions can be found in plasma from donors incubating the disease and thereby contaminating the raw material plasma used for manufacturing.
Deradelphous Cephalothoracopagus in Kittens
Authors: Mazzullo G. , Macrì F. , Rapisarda G. , Marino F.
Published: June 2009

Cephalothoracopagus is a very rare form of conjoined twins and is characterized by fusion of heads and thoraxes with two separate spines, limbs and pelves. The aim of this study was to describe a case of female cephalothoracopagus kitten puppy. The most important gross findings involved the external body and some of the internal organs. Radiological features revealed main developmental abnormality of the head, spines and thorax. Authors discuss the pathogenic mechanisms of this condition, infrequently reported in veterinary practice, pointing out the importance of embryonic duplications commonly associated with dystocia.
Transplantation of Spongia officinalis L. (Porifera, Demospongiae): a technical approach for restocking this endangered species
Authors: Baldacconi Rossella , Cardone Frine , Longo Caterina , Mercurio Maria , Marzano Carlotta Nonnis , Gaino Elda , Corriero Giuseppe
Published: June 2009

The present study focuses on the reproductive success of transplants of the bath sponge Spongia officinalis Linnaeus, 1759, with the aim of investigating the possibility of restocking this species, one of the most endangered organisms of the Mediterranean sessile zoobenthos. Transplants of S. officinalis, collected from a wild population along the Apulian coasts (Ionian Sea, Italy), have been moved into an area where the species was present in the past. The transplants consisted both of specimens in toto and of fragments of different sizes, obtained after having cut the mother sponge into pieces. All transplanted sponges showed complete cicatrisation of the cut surfaces within a month of the initial manipulation and had a survival rate of 100% throughout the 12 months of the study. From the present investigation, it has emerged that the reproductive effort and the larval release by the transplants do not differ significantly from those shown by the source population. This successful technical approach supports its application as a strategy for restocking the population of this endangered species.
Decreased mobilization of endothelial progenitor cells contributes to impaired neovascularization in diabetes
Authors: Kang Lina , Chen Qin , Wang Lian , Gao Ling , Meng Kui , Chen Junhao , Ferro Albert , Xu Biao
Published: June 2009

Circulating bone marrow (BM)‐derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play an important role in neovascularization. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the reduction in circulating EPCs in a mouse model of diabetes induced by streptozotocin.

 Compared with non‐diabetic controls, diabetic mice had reduced circulating EPCs (0.59 ± 0.11 vs 0.94 ± 0.21%, respectively; P < 0.01) and increased plasma endothelial microparticles (18 642 ± 6809 vs 5692 ± 1862/mL, respectively; P < 0.01). In a mouse bone marrow (BM) transplantation model, increased adhesion of transplanted BM cells to aortas of diabetic mice was observed compared with control (900 ± 194 vs 431 ± 109 cells/mm2, respectively; P < 0.01).

 Following hindlimb ischaemia, diabetic mice exhibited suppressed EPC mobilization, a reduction in the expected increase in capillary density and suppressed restoration of transcutaneous oxygen pressure in the ischaemic tissue. Diabetic mice also showed impaired ischaemia‐induced upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)‐1α and interleukin‐1β, an exaggerated increase in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 and ‐9 and a suppressed increase in tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP)‐1. On multivariate analysis, VEGF expression was the only independent factor related to circulating EPC count.

 In conclusion, the data indicate that the decrease in basal circulating EPCs in diabetes may be attributable, in part, to consumptive loss of EPCs due to increased endothelial damage. Impairment of ischaemia‐induced EPC mobilization in the diabetic mouse model is associated with altered HIF‐1α/VEGF and MMP/TIMP regulation and represents a novel mechanism underlying defective postischaemic neovascularization in diabetes.
Primary production and other limnological aspects of Cleveland Dam, Harare, Zimbabwe
Authors: Ndebele Mzime Regina
Published: June 2009

Primary production, plankton community and some limnological aspects of Cleveland dam were investigated for 15 weeks to ascertain the health of the reservoir’s ecological system. Sampling was conducted on one site near the dam wall on a weekly basis, at a 1 m interval depth profile. The sampling period (from September 2005 to January 2006) reflected the results of a hot, dry season (from September to November) and a hot, wet season (from December to January). On average, the pH, temperature, conductivity, turbidity, dissolved oxygen concentration, light penetration and photosynthetically active radiation decreased with depth. In contrast, the primary production, phytoplankton biomass, phytoplankton density, and the total nitrogen and total phosphorus concentrations did not conform to the same pattern, instead tending to increase at a depth of ≈4–5 m below the water surface, suggesting it was the optimum plankton habitat. There were no significant differences between depths for all parameters, suggesting that the reservoir, although exhibiting signs of stratification, was nevertheless too shallow to exhibit the varied differences down a vertical profile typical of tropical reservoirs, at least during the sampling period of this study. Although the present limnology of Cleveland Dam confirms its oligotrophic nature, the conditions prevailing in its catchment could ultimately lead to adverse effects in the reservoir. The ecological health of Cleveland Dam is discussed in regard to land use patterns in the catchment that pose threats as potential pollution sources. Cleveland Dam is possibly in danger of being polluted. There is a need to address the legal instruments currently in place for water management in order to curb such environmental degradation as they do not adequately address the problems faced.
Application of GIS modelling to quantify fish habitats in lakes
Authors: Douglas John , Hunt Taylor , Abery Nigel , Allen Micheal
Published: June 2009

Quantitative measures of fish habitat in lakes and impoundments have seldom been proposed. The availability of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), however, now provides a means for researchers to assess fish habitat on a whole‐lake scale. GIS modelling was used in this study to quantify the impacts of stratification on the amount and distribution of brown trout (Salmo trutta) habitat in a large reservoir in Victoria, Australia. Species‐specific temperature and dissolved oxygen tolerance ranges for brown trout were applied to the hydrological profile and lake bathymetry. The model predicted that brown trout habitat was reduced by 82% in the summer, and the model was validated with position data from acoustically tagged adult brown trout. This study demonstrated that a quantifiable assessment of fish habitat on a whole‐lake spatial scale can be made. It also could be applied to a range of fish species, with applications in ecosystem monitoring and fisheries management.
Comparative clinicopathological study of primary CNS diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma and intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Imai Hiroshi , Shimada Kazuyuki , Shimada Satoko , Abe Masato , Okamoto Masataka , Kitamura Kunio , Kinoshita Tomohiro , Shiraishi Taizo , Nakamura Sigeo
Published: June 2009

Primary CNS diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (CNS DLBCL) is confined to the CNS, and constitutes a distinct entity. In the present study a series of 40 Japanese patients with CNS DLBCL who presented with neurological, but not systemic symptoms, was reviewed. Median survival was 18.7 months. CD5, CD10, Bcl‐6, MUM‐1, and Bcl‐2 were positive in 30%, 10%, 84%, 100%, and 93% of patients, respectively. All CD10‐negative patients had non‐germinal center B‐cell type. There was no significant difference in survival among the immunophenotypic subgroups. CNS DLBCL appeared to be homogenous as a group, which prompted the comparison with another distinct extranodal entity, intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) in Japanese patients. CNS DLBCL patients did not differ in age, sex, or immunophenotype, including CD5 positivity, from IVLBCL patients, but were significantly less likely to have poor prognostic parameters than IVLBCL patients: the international prognostic index score was low or low–intermediate in 86% of CNS DLBCL patients and high or high–intermediate in 98% of IVLBCL patients. Notably, despite this difference, their survival curves almost overlapped. The present study highlights the issue of clinical distinctiveness of aggressive extranodal lymphomas, the peculiar migration and localization of which should be further clarified.
Hepatocellular apoptosis associated with cytotoxic T/natural killer‐cell infiltration in chronic active EBV infection
Authors: Nomura Yuko , Kimura Hiroshi , Karube Kennosuke , Yoshida Shiro , Sugita Yasuo , Niino Daisuke , Shimizu Kei , Kimura Yoshizo , Aoki Ryosuke , Kiyasu Junichi , Takeuchi Masanori , Hashikawa Keiko , Hirose Shinichi , Ohshima Koichi
Published: June 2009

The aim of the present study was to identify the mechanism of hepatocellular apoptosis induced by EBV‐infected cytotoxic T/natural killer (NK) cells in chronic active EBV infection (CAEBV). Eight patients with CAEBV were studied, and infected T‐cell expansion and NK‐cell expansion were detected in four patients each. Biopsy or necropsy was performed on lymph node, liver, or spleen, and each specimen was subjected to immunohistochemical double staining of CD3 plus caspase‐3 with the addition of cytotoxic markers of T‐cell restricted intracellular antigen‐1 (TIA‐1), perforin, and granzyme B, as well as EBV in situ hybridization (EBV‐ISH). In the liver, some of the infiltrating CD3‐positive lymphocytes stained positively for EBV‐ISH and cytotoxic markers. Double staining of CD3 plus caspase‐3 indicated caspase‐3 positive hepatocytes with apoptotic features, accompanied by extensive infiltration of CD3‐positive cells, which were directly attached to the apoptotic caspase‐3 positive hepatocytes. In contrast, far fewer cells stained positive for caspase‐3 in lymph node and spleen than in liver. The present findings suggest that in patients with CAEBV, cytotoxic T/NK cells may directly induce hepatocytes to undergo apoptosis more frequently than they do cells in other organs of the reticulo‐endothelial system.
Fumagillin inhibits colorectal cancer growth and metastasis in mice: In vivo and in vitro study of anti‐angiogenesis
Authors: Hou Li , Mori Daisuke , Takase Yukari , Meihua Piao , Kai Keita , Tokunaga Osamu
Published: June 2009

Fumagillin is an inhibitor of type 2 methionine aminopeptidase that can block blood vessel formation, but its molecular mechanism and therapeutic value in colon cancer still remain to be elucidated. In this study, male severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice were injected with colon cancer cells in the subcutis and then treated with Fumagillin and Cyclo (Arg‐Gly‐Asp‐D‐Phe‐Val), an integrin αvβ3 antagonist. The tumor weight, microvessel density (MVD), and number of pulmonary metastatic foci were examined. Gene expression profiles were examined by microarray analysis of human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVEC). The Fumagillin‐treated mice had smaller tumor mass, fewer pulmonary metastases, and lower MVD‐CD105 levels than control animals. In vitro proliferation and tube formation of HUVEC was also significantly decreased by Fumagillin. Microarray analysis of Fumagillin‐treated HUVEC showed upregulation of 71 genes and downregulation of 143 genes. Expression changes were involved in cell proliferation, migration, adhesion, and gene transcription. Quantitative real‐time–polymerase chain reaction and western blotting showed decreased expression of cyclin E2, activated leukocyte cell adhesion molecule (ALCAM), and intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) genes in the presence of Fumagillin. This downregulation by Fumagillin may be involved in the anti‐angiogenesis by Fumagillin. In conclusion, Fumagillin was found to suppress colorectal cancer growth and metastasis by suppressing angiogenesis.
Bowel loop in an ovarian tumor: Grossly visible, completely developed intestinal loop in mature cystic teratoma of malignant mixed germ cell tumor
Authors: Kwon Mi Jung , Nam Eun Sook , Cho Seong Jin , Shin Hyung Sik , Na Yeon Sik , Chang Jae Hyuk , Kim In Sun
Published: June 2009

Although a gastrointestinal‐type epithelium is observed in 7–13% of mature cystic teratoma cases, the occurrence of a grossly visible, organized gastrointestinal loop formation is very rare. Presented here is the case of a 14‐year‐old girl with malignant mixed germ cell tumor in the ovaries. In her left ovary a grossly visible, intestinal loop, 9 cm long, with hanging mesentery attached to the cystic wall of a mature cystic teratoma associated with a yolk sac tumor was observed, and in her right ovary another mature cystic teratoma was observed. Microscopy of the intestinal loop indicated a well‐organized, intact layer of small intestinal wall. The yolk sac tumor predominantly had a polyvitelline pattern. Previously, gastrointestinal wall or epithelium that was identified on microscopy has been reported. To the authors' knowledge this is the first case report of the formation of a grossly visible, completely developed intestinal loop in a malignant mixed germ cell tumor.
Adenosquamous carcinoma in a congenital choledochal cyst associated with pancreatico‐biliary maljunction
Authors: Terada Tadashi
Published: June 2009

Congenital choledochal cyst is occasionally complicated by carcinomatous transformation, mostly adenocarcinoma. Adenosquamous carcinoma arising in a congenital choledochal cyst is very rare. The author herein reports an adenosquamous carcinoma arising in congenital choledochal cyst associated with pancreatico‐biliary maljunction. A 34‐year‐old man with congenital choledochal cyst and recurrent cholangitis had been followed up, and was admitted to hospital to undergo testing for cancer. Imaging modalities including computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and endoscopic retrograde cholangiography showed an elevated lesion in the choledochal cyst. Because clinical cytology of bile indicated malignant cells, pancreatico‐duodenectomy, cholecystectomy, and resection of the choledochal cyst were performed. Grossly, the choledochal cyst was type I, and its size was 8 × 10 cm. Anomalous pancreatico‐biliary ductal union was recognized. An elevated lesion was recognized in the choledochal cyst. Histologically, the lesion was composed of a squamous cell carcinoma element and an adenocarcinoma element; a gradual transition was recognized between the two. The squamous cell carcinoma element contained microcytic cells with mucins. On immunohistochemistry the adenocarcinoma element and microcytic cells were positive for CEA, but the squamous cell carcinoma element was negative for CEA. Both elements were positive for CA19‐9. Ki‐67 labeling was 53% in the adenocarcinoma element and 48% in the squamous cell carcinoma element. p53 protein was negative in both elements. At the time of writing, the patient was alive after 25 months without recurrence or metastasis. The present case is the second case of adenosquamous carcinoma arising in congenital choledochal cyst in the English‐language literature.
Beta lactam allergy in children from two ethnically different populations
Authors: Broides Arnon , Kirjner Lia , Gorodischer Rafael , Hershkovich Jacob
Published: June 2009

Background:  The effects of ethnicity on beta lactam allergy have not been reported. The Negev Desert in Southern Israel is inhabited by two ethnically distinct populations: Jews and Bedouin Muslims. Approximately 60% of the pediatric population of the area is Jewish. Whereas most Jews live in Westernized urban centers, Bedouins are in the process of transition from semi‐nomadic conditions to a sedentary lifestyle and the majority of them now live in towns and villages. We sought to determine the rate and characteristics of physician‐reported beta lactam allergy in Jewish and Bedouin children.

Methods:  The medical records of all children registered in five primary community clinics were reviewed and screened for allergy to beta lactam antibiotics.

Results:  A total of 26 655 medical records were reviewed: of 11 069 Jewish children and 15 586 Bedouin children. Beta lactam allergy was registered in 344 records (1.3%), and was more frequent in Jewish (n= 226, 2.1%) than in Bedouin children (n= 118, 0.8%, P < 0.0001). Beta lactam allergy was more common in boys in both populations (P < 0.01). The clinical features of the reaction that led to the diagnosis of beta lactam allergy were not significantly different between the two ethnic populations, although the specific antibiotics prescribed and the diagnoses for which they were prescribed were different in the two ethnic populations.

Conclusions:  We concluded in this study that pediatric beta lactam allergy was registered more frequently in Jewish than in Bedouin children, and in boys more than in girls.
Foreign body aspiration in children: Field report of a German hospital
Authors: Göktas Önder , Snidero Silvio , Jahnke Volker , Passali Desiderio , Gregori Dario
Published: June 2009

Background:  The aspiration of foreign bodies (FB), especially by small children, is a life‐threatening situation and can be fatal. The aim of this survey was to study the types of foreign bodies in the upper airways and digestive tract, and the circumstances leading to the aspiration on the basis of hospital records of the Berlin University Hospital in Germany from 1997–2002.

Methods:  We performed a retrospective review of hospital records using a standardized protocol. Foreign body aspiration that occurred in children aged 0–14 were considered for inclusion in the database. During the study period, 78 patients with a diagnosis of FB were included in the database. Forty‐five patients were male and 33 were female. The median age was 1.

Results:  In 89.5% of all cases, the children were under the age of 3. Seventy‐five of the 78 patients had a foreign body in the trachea/bronchial trees/lungs based on International Classification of Diseases‐9 codes at the time of discharge.

At the time the injury occurred, the children had either been eating (41.1%) or playing (50.0%). More than 50% of the children were being supervised by an adult at the time the injury occurred.

The foreign bodies (FB) were always extracted by using an endoscopic procedure (n= 43 rigid, n= 6 flexible and n= 29 combination of both methods). Moreover, hospitalization was always required due to an institutional requirement. The most commonly found foreign bodies were seeds, nuts, berries and grains.

Conclusion:  Most of the foreign bodies were found in the bronchial tubes, trachea, and lungs. The extraction method from these areas is rigid and/or flexible bronchoscopy or gastrointestinal endoscopy, a procedure requiring anesthesia.

There seems to be no association between the aspirated foreign bodies and other purchased objects or packaging material. The fact that a large fraction of the injuries occur under the supervision of the adults suggests that the number and severity of the injuries could be reduced by educating parents and children. Our experience confirms, therefore, that further research into the behavioral aspects leading to FB injuries is needed.
Efficacy of topical cyclosporine A in the treatment of severe trachomatous dry eye
Authors: Guzey Mustafa , Karaman Suleyman Korhan , Satici Ahmet , Ozardali Ilyas , Sezer Sezgin , Bozkurt Omer
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Purpose:  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of topical cyclosporine A (CsA) treatment in patients with severe trachomatous dry eye.

Methods:  Sixty‐four severe trachomatous dry eye patients who had undergone Schirmer testing with topical anaesthetic measured 5 mm or less and a tear film break‐up time (TFBUT) of 5 s or less were included in the study. Thirty‐two patients were treated with CsA 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion twice daily and concomitant five times daily non‐preserved artificial tear, and the other 32 patients who were designated as the control group received vehicle emulsion twice daily and non‐preserved artificial tear five times daily. Pretreatment and post‐treatment evaluations included subjective assessment of the patients (total symptoms scores and ocular surface disease index [OSDI] scores), Schirmer testing with topical anaesthesia, TFBUT, rose Bengal and fluorescein staining scores, conjunctival impression cytological scoring and goblet cell counting.

Results:  Following 6 months of CsA treatment, the differences between the pretreatment and post‐treatment test results including total symptoms scores and OSDI scores, the rose Bengal and fluorescein staining scores, TFBUT values, and the Schirmer testing measurements were found to be statistically significant. Impression cytology also showed improvement of squamous metaplasia in 26 patients (81.25%) and increase in goblet cell density in 23 patients (71.88%).

Conclusions:  Topical CsA was effective in the treatment of severe trachomatous dry eye, yielding improvements in both objective and subjective measurements with a safety profile.
Comparison of refractive outcomes using immersion ultrasound biometry and IOLMaster biometry
Authors: Landers John , Goggin Michael
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Background:  The IOLMaster determines axial length using partial coherence interferometry. This study was designed to compare the refractive outcomes of patients who had been measured preoperatively by both immersion ultrasound and IOLMaster biometry.

Methods:  Patients were recruited from those who had undergone cataract surgery during the preceding 12 months by one surgeon at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (55 eyes from 55 patients). Each patient underwent measurement of axial length by immersion ultrasound and the IOLMaster. Target refraction was determined using an SRK‐T formula and the amount that this differed postoperative refraction was calculated for immersion ultrasound and the IOLMaster. These results were then compared.

Results:  Eyes measured longer by the IOLMaster method compared with immersion ultrasound (23.37 ± 0.87 vs. 23.25 ± 0.90 mm, t = 4.83; P < 0.0001). However anterior chamber depth was the similar. Postoperatively, final refractive outcome was 0.01 ± 0.63 dioptres (D) more hypermetropic than the target refraction when using the IOLMaster compared with 0.25 ± 0.73 D more myopic when using immersion ultrasound (t = 3.83; P < 0.0001). Seventy‐five per cent of patients were within 0.5 D of target refraction and 93% were within 1.0 D when the IOLMaster was used, compared with 49% and 85% within 0.5 and 1.0 D respectively when using immersion ultrasound (χ2 = 8.34; P = 0.04).

Conclusions:  Biometry performed using the IOLMaster produces a more predictable refractive outcome than immersion ultrasound, with patients' spherical equivalent more likely to be closer to their target refraction.
Plaque brachytherapy for the management of ocular surface malignancies with corneoscleral invasion
Authors: Walsh‐Conway Natalie , Conway R Max
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Purpose:  To describe the outcome of patients treated by surgical excision followed by plaque brachytherapy for primary or recurrent ocular surface malignancies with evidence of deep margin (corneoscleral) invasion.

Methods:  Retrospective, non‐comparative, interventional case series. Eleven consecutive patients presenting with biopsy‐proven scleral and/or corneal stromal involvement from either conjunctival melanoma (CM) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the conjunctiva were reviewed.

Results:  Five patients had CM (pT3 N0 M0 [n = 3], pT4 N0 M0 [n = 2]) and six patients had SCC (T3 N0 M0 [n = 6]). Mean age was 60.8 years and male : female (3 : 8). Mean follow up was 23.4 months (range 12–36 months). All patients were treated with Iodine‐125 plaque following biopsy‐proven corneoscleral invasion on histopathology. The treatment dose was 100 Gy to a depth of 1.5–2.5 mm. Outcomes: Median visual acuity and intraocular pressure were unchanged after surgery. Five patients experienced corneal ulceration in the immediate postoperative period. None experienced recurrence at the treatment site. One SCC patient and two CM patients experienced new lesions distant from the treatment site. No sight‐threatening complications were observed. No patients developed distant metastases.

Conclusion:  Plaque brachytherapy is an effective and well‐tolerated modality for the management of patients with ocular surface malignancy with evidence of localized corneoscleral invasion.
Graves' ophthalmopathy and gene polymorphisms in interleukin‐1α, interleukin‐1β, interleukin‐1 receptor and interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist
Authors: Khalilzadeh Omid , Anvari Mehdi , Esteghamati Alireza , Mahmoudi Mahdi , Tahvildari Maryam , Rashidi Armin , Khosravi Farideh , Amirzargar Aliakbar
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Purpose:  Interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) is known to have an important role in pathogenesis of Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO). Polymorphisms in IL‐1 gene have been associated with autoimmune reactions. This study aimed to investigate the association of GO with single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the IL‐1 family (IL‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐1 receptor [IL‐1R] and IL‐1 receptor antagonist [IL‐1RA]).

Methods:  A total of 57 patients of Graves' disease without GO, 50 patients with GO and 140 healthy controls were enrolled. Patients were recruited consecutively from the outpatient endocrine clinic of a large university general hospital. Cytokine typing was performed by the polymerase chain reaction with sequence‐specific primers assay. The allele and genotype frequencies of the following polymorphisms were determined: IL‐1α (−889C/T), IL‐1β (−511C/T), IL‐1β (+3962C/T), IL‐1R (Pst‐1 1970C/T) and IL‐1RA (Mspa‐1 11100C/T). Genotype distributions among patients were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium for all polymorphisms.

Results:  Among the five SNPs studied, the frequencies of the T allele and the TT genotype of IL‐1α (−889C/T) were significantly higher among patients with GO than those without GO (odds ratio [OR] = 2.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.25–3.74; P = 0.006 and 5.67, 95% CI = 1.66–49.34; P = 0.005, respectively). For IL‐1RA (Mspa‐1 11100C/T), the frequencies of the C allele and the CC genotype were significantly higher among patients with GO (OR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.34–4.00; P = 0.004 and 6.73 95% CI = 1.94–23.36; P = 0.004, respectively; P < 0.01). No significant association was found for other SNPs.

Conclusion:  This is the first study to show a positive correlation between polymorphisms in the IL‐1α and IL‐1RA genes and susceptibility to GO. These findings promote further research into genetic correlates of GO.