bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogeography of a specialist insect, Adelges cooleyi: historical and contemporary processes shape the distribution of population genetic variation
Authors: AHERN ROBERT G. , HAWTHORNE DAVID J. , RAUPP MICHAEL J.
Published: January 2009

Adelges cooleyi is a host‐alternating, gall‐making insect native to the Rocky Mountains and Cascade Mountains in western North America. The insect's primary hosts are Picea (spruce) species, and its secondary host is Pseudotsuga menziesii, Douglas fir. To determine whether there are large‐scale patterns of genetic variation in this specialist insect, we created molecular phylogenies of geographically separate samples of A. cooleyi using sequence data from two mitochondrial (mtDNA) genes and amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs). Three divergent mtDNA lineages were identified. Analysis of mtDNA and AFLP genetic variation revealed that samples from southeastern Arizona are genetically isolated from all other samples. AFLP data identified possible gene flow between individuals from divergent mtDNA lineages in an area in the central Rocky Mountains. Factors that likely affected divergence within A. cooleyi were identified by comparing our conclusions with well‐known changes in the distribution of vegetation in response to glaciations and previous phylogeographical work conducted on this specialist insect's host‐plants. In addition to documenting previously unknown patterns of genetic variation in A. cooleyi, our work provides the basis for a testable hypothesis regarding the extent to which the distribution of variation in Picea and Pseudotsuga hosts mediates the distribution of genetic variation for this specialist insect.
Rubisco content and photosynthesis of leaves at different positions in transgenic rice with an overexpression of RBCS
Authors: SUZUKI YUJI , MIYAMOTO TAKEAKI , YOSHIZAWA RYUICHI , MAE TADAHIKO , MAKINO AMANE
Published: January 2009

As ribulose 1·5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco) activity limits light‐saturated photosynthesis under present atmospheric condition, the effects of an overexpression of RBCSon Rubisco content and photosynthesis were examined in the leaves at different positions in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Rubisco content in the transformant was significantly greater in the uppermost, fully expanded leaves but decreased to levels similar to those in wild‐type plants in the lower leaves. The mRNA levels of total RBCS and rbcL in these leaves were much less than those in the expanding leaves, where Rubisco synthesis is active, suggesting commensurately low level of synthesis. Although the activation state of Rubisco was lower in the uppermost, fully expanded leaves of the transformant, it recovered to its full level in the lower leaves. As a result, the photosynthetic rate did not differ in leaves at the same position between the transformant and the wild type. Similarly, whole plant biomass did not differ between these genotypes. Thus, we conclude that although the overexpression of RBCS led to an enhancement of Rubisco protein content in the uppermost, fully expanded leaves, it does not result in increased photosynthetic rates or plant biomass, because of an apparent down‐regulation in its activation state.
Functional anatomy controls ion distribution in banana leaves: significance of Na+ seclusion at the leaf margins
Authors: SHAPIRA OR , KHADKA SUDHA , ISRAELI YAIR , SHANI URI , SCHWARTZ AMNON
Published: January 2009

Typical salt stress symptoms appear in banana (Musa sp., cv. ‘Grand Nain’ AAA) only along the leaf margins. Mineral analysis of the dry matter of plants treated with increasing concentrations of KCl or NaCl revealed significant accumulation of Na+, but not of K+ or Cl‐, in the affected leaf margins. The differential distribution of the three ions suggests that water and ion movement out of the xylem is mostly symplastic and, in contrast to K+ and Cl‐, there exists considerable resistance to the flow of Na+ from the xylem to the adjacent mesophyll and epidermis. The parallel veins of the lamina are enclosed by several layers of bundle sheath parenchyma; in contrast, the large vascular bundle that encircles the entire lamina, and into which the parallel veins merge, lacks a complete bundle sheath. Xylem sap containing a high concentration of Na+ is ‘pulled’ by water tension from the marginal vein back into the adjacent mesophyll without having to cross a layer of parenchyma tissue. When the marginal vein was dissected from the lamina, the pattern of Na+ distribution in the margins changed markedly. The distinct anatomy of the marginal vein plays a major role in the accumulation of Na+ in the margins, with the latter serving as a ‘dumping site’ for toxic molecules.
Quantitative detection and monitoring of Colletotrichum acutatum in strawberry leaves using real‐time PCR
Authors: Debode J. , Van Hemelrijck W. , Baeyen S. , Creemers P. , Heungens K. , Maes M.
Published: January 2009

Real‐time PCR assays for Colletotrichum acutatum, one of the most important pathogens of strawberry worldwide, were developed using primers designed to the ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer 1 (rDNA ITS1) and the β‐tubulin 2 gene. Using TaqMan technology, the ITS‐based assay could reliably detect as little as 50 fg genomic DNA, 100 copies of target DNA, or 25 conidia. The β‐tubulin‐based assay was c. 66 times less sensitive, and therefore less suitable for detection purposes. The TaqMan‐ITS assay recognized all C. acutatum isolates tested from various intraspecific molecular groups, while no amplification was observed with several other Colletotrichum species or other strawberry pathogens, indicating the specificity of this assay. Detection and quantification of C. acutatum was demonstrated in artificially and naturally infected strawberry leaves. First, C. acutatum was detected in plant mixes of which only 0·001% of the tissue was infected by C. acutatum. Secondly, real‐time PCR analysis of leaf samples taken at various times after inoculation indicated that the assay allowed monitoring of growth progression of C. acutatum. This real‐time PCR‐mediated monitoring of the pathogen was well‐correlated with microscopic data, and confirmed that leaf age may play a role in the extent of C. acutatum infection. Finally, the assay allowed detection of C. acutatum in naturally infected and symptomless strawberry leaves collected from production fields and planting material.
A new root‐knot nematode, Meloidogyne silvestris n. sp. (Nematoda: Meloidogynidae), parasitizing European holly in northern Spain
Authors: Castillo P. , Vovlas N. , Troccoli A. , Liébanas G. , Palomares Rius J. E. , Landa B. B.
Published: January 2009

High infection rates of European holly (Ilex aquifolium) feeder roots by an unknown root‐knot nematode were found in a holly forest at Arévalo de la Sierra (Soria province) in northern Spain. Holly trees infected by the root‐knot nematode showed some decline and low growth. Infected feeder roots were distorted and showed numerous root galls of large (8–10 mm) to moderate (2–3 mm) size. Morphometry, esterase and malate dehydrogenase electrophoretic phenotypes and phylogenetic trees of sequences within the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) demonstrated that this nematode species differs clearly from other previously described root‐knot nematodes. Studies of host‐parasite relationships showed a typical susceptible reaction in naturally infected European holly plants, but did not reproduce on a number of cultivated plants, including tomato, grapevine, princess‐tree and olive. The species is described here, illustrated and named as Meloidogyne silvestris n. sp. The new root‐knot nematode can be morphologically distinguished from other Meloidogyne spp. by: (i) roundish perineal pattern, dorsal arch low, with fine, sinuous cuticle striae, lateral fields faintly visible; (ii) female excretory pore level with stylet knobs, or just anterior to them, EP/ST ratio about 0·8; (iii) second‐stage juveniles with hemizonid located 1 to 2 annuli anterior to excretory pore and short, sub‐digitate tail; and (iv) males with lateral fields composed of four incisures, with areolated outer bands. Phylogenetic trees derived from maximum parsimony analysis based on 18S, ITS1‐5·8S‐ITS2 and D2–D3 of 28S rDNA showed that M. silvestris n. sp. can be differentiated from all described root‐knot nematode species, and it is clearly separated from other species with resemblance in morphology, such as M. ardenensis, M. dunensis and M. lusitanica.
Quantitative resistance to Plum pox virus in Prunus davidiana P1908 linked to components of the eukaryotic translation initiation complex
Authors: Marandel G. , Pascal T. , Candresse T. , Decroocq V.
Published: January 2009

A complex, polygenic resistance to Plum pox virus (PPV) was previously described in a wild peach‐related species, Prunus davidiana clone P1908. In the current study, an analysis of quantitative trait loci (QTL) was performed on an F2 population comprising 99 individuals obtained by selfing the F1 individual #40 of an interspecific cross between susceptible nectarine cv. Summergrand and the resistant P. davidiana clone P1908. Six QTL were identified using both parametric and non‐parametric methods of detection, individually explaining 5–28% of the phenotypic variance. The total phenotypic variation explained ranged from 29 to 58%. Alignment of the genetic map of the F2 cross with the P. davidiana parent map showed consistency of QTL over generations, with three of the six QTL co‐localizing at the 1‐LOD interval and another one at the 2‐LOD interval. Two of the QTL were mapped onto linkage group one, where resistance to PPV was previously mapped in apricot. Development and mapping of new microsatellite markers linked to candidate genes revealed a striking co‐localization of three of the detected QTL with gene copies coding for eukaryotic translation initiation factors eIF4E and eIF(iso)4G. As co‐localization of one QTL with candidate gene eIF(iso)4E was previously reported in the F1 population, the results reported here strongly reinforce the idea that components of the eukaryotic translation initiation complex are correlated with resistance to PPV in P. davidiana P1908.
Characteristics of Filiform, Fungiform and Vallate Papillae and Surface of Interface Epithelium‐Connective Tissue of the Maned Sloth Tongue Mucosa (Bradypus torquatus, Iliger, 1811): Light and Scanning Electron Microscopy Study
Authors: Benetti E. J. , Pícoli L. C. , Guimarães J. P. , Motoyama A. A. , Miglino M. A. , Watanabe L.‐S.
Published: January 2009

The study of lingual surfaces and the surface of interface epithelium‐connective tissue of the tongue of Bradypus torquatus was performed by employing the light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. The results revealed that the rostral part of the tongue presents a round apex and covered by filiform and fungiform lingual papillae and a ventral smooth surface. It was observed that the epithelial layer of the dorsal surface possesses the basal, spinosum, granular and cornified epithelial cells. The lamina propria is characterized by a dense connective tissue forming the long, short and round papillae. Numerous typical filiform papillae are located especially in the rostral part intermingled for few fungiform papillae, which were revealed in three‐dimensional SEM images. Usually, the fungiform papillae are located in the border of rostral apex of the tongue exhibiting the rounded form. They are covered by keratinized epithelial cells. In the fungiform papillae, several taste pores were observed on the surface. The vallate papillae presented numerous taste buds in the wall of epithelial cells, being that the major number of taste buds is located on the superior half of vallate papilla. The taste pores are surrounded by several laminae of keratinized epithelial cells. The samples treated with NaOH solution and examined by SEM revealed, after removal of the epithelial layer, the dense connective core in original disposition, presenting different sizes and shapes. The specimens stained with Picrosirius and examined by polarized light microscopy revealed the connective tissue, indicating the collagen fibres type I and type III.
Structure of the Lining Epithelium of the Cauda Epididymis of the Golden Hamster
Authors: Beu C. C. L. , Orsi A. M. , Domeniconi R. F.
Published: January 2009

The ductus epididymis has roles in the maturation and storage of spermatozoa. The main function of the cauda epididymis is the storage of spermatozoa; however, this region exerts other morphophysiological roles. So, this study was aimed at investigating structural features of the cauda epididymis epithelium, which could indicate roles other than the storage. The relative percentages of the cell types in the epithelium were 74.9, 6.9, 12.5 and 5.6% of principal, clear, basal and halo cells respectively. Large intercellular spaces were seen among the lateral plasmatic membranes of adjacent principal cells or among these cells and others cell types. These spaces were found to be filled with multivesicular bodies, myelin figures, scrolls and debris of membranes or flocculent dense material. Clear cells had the cytoplasms filled with lysosomes (¾ of basal cytoplasm), and vacuoles and vesicles (¼ of apical cytoplasm). The observations allowed us to infer that clear cells could act in the process of endocytosis and also in water transfer from the lumen to the interstitium through the epithelium compartment. Moreover, transcytosis may occur at the cauda epididymis of Golden hamster.
Effect of soybean peptides on growth performance, intestinal structure and mucosal immunity of broilers
Authors: Jiang Y. B. , Yin Q. Q. , Yang Y. R.
Published: January 2009

Five‐hundred 1‐day‐old broilers were randomly assigned to five groups, 100 chickens for each group. From group 1 to 3, 80, 120 and 200 mg/kg soybean peptides was added to the diets respectively; in the fourth group, 3.2 mg/kg genramycin was added; and the fifth group was the control without soybean peptides and antibiotics. At the age of 28 and 49 days, the number of goblet cells (GC), intestine intraepithelial lymphocyte, immunoglobulin A‐forming cells, the ratio of villous height and crypt depth (V/C) of broiler’s duodenum, jejunum and cecum were observed by the application of haematoxylin and eosin or histochemistry staining. The results indicated that soybean peptides added with 80–120 mg/kg could increase daily weight gain, the number of GC and V/C. Soybean peptides could modulate intestinal mucosal immunity of broilers.
Mineral absorption in tapirs (Tapirus spp.) as compared to the domestic horse
Authors: Clauss M. , Lang‐Deuerling S. , Kienzle E. , Medici E. P. , Hummel J.
Published: January 2009

To test whether mineral recommendations for horses are likely to guarantee adequate mineral provision for tapirs (Tapirus spp.), we investigated the apparent absorption (aA) of macro and micro‐minerals in 18 tapirs from five zoological institutions in a total of 24 feeding trials with total faecal collection. Samples of feeds and faeces were analysed for Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, Fe, Cu and Zn. The resulting aA coefficients and the linear relationships of apparently absorbable dietary mineral content to total dietary mineral content (per 100 g dry matter) were compared with data for domestic horses. While there were no apparent differences in the absorption patterns for P, K, Na, Fe, Cu or Zn, the absorption of both Ca and Mg was distinctively higher in tapirs than in horses. Tapirs are browsers that are adapted to a diet of higher Ca content and higher Ca:P ratio than equids, and high absorptive efficiency for Ca might have evolved to ensure that high dietary Ca concentrations do not lead to the binding of dietary P in the intestine, making it unavailable for hindgut microbes. Similar to other hindgut fermenters, in tapirs, absorption coefficients for Ca increased with dietary Ca:P ratio, and urinary Ca:creatinine ratios increased with dietary Ca. Several zoo diets used were deficient in one or more minerals. When compared with faeces of free‐ranging animals, faeces of zoo animals had higher concentrations of most minerals, probably indicating a lesser diluting effect of indigestible fibre in zoo animals.
Isolation and Culture of Ovine and Bubaline Small and Large Pre‐antral Follicles: Effect of Cyclicity and Presence of a Dominant Follicle
Authors: Nandi S , Girish Kumar V , Ramesh HS , Manjunatha BM , Gupta PSP
Published: January 2009

Contents

Studies were conducted to examine the effects of the cyclicity and the presence of a dominant follicle (DF) in ovary on the recovery and in vitro growth of pre‐antral follicles (PFs) in sheep and buffalo. Small pre‐antral follicles (SPFs, 100–250 μm) and large pre‐antral follicles (LPFs, 250–450 μm) were isolated from slaughterhouse ovaries in the breeding seasons by a mechanical and enzymatic method. The sheep and buffalo PFs were cultured in vitro for 6 and 15 days, respectively, and examined for their growth, survival and antrum formation rates and growth rates of oocytes in cultured pre‐antral follicles. The follicles of the sheep and buffalo were recovered and cultured simultaneously within replicates. The recovery rates (number per ovary) of both SPFs and LPFs were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in cyclic ewes (SPFs: 22.0 ± 3.3 vs 12.1 ± 2.6 and LPFs: 16.0 ± 3.6 vs 9.2 ± 1.8) and buffaloes (SPFs: 9.2 ± 1.3 vs 4.1 ± 1.0 and LPFs: 10.3 ± 2.7 vs 5.4 ± 0.7) compared with those recovered from acyclic ones. Presence of a DF in ovary significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the recovery rates of LPFs in ewes (9.06 ± 2.7 vs 16.4 ± 3.8) but had no effect in buffalo. Cyclicity of animals or follicular dominance had no effects on in vitro growth, survival and antrum formation rates and growth rates of oocytes in cultured PFs of SPFs and LPFs in both sheep and buffalo. The in vitro growth, survival and antrum formation rates of LPFs and growth rates of oocytes in cultured LPFs were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those observed in SPFs in both sheep and buffalo. The overall recovery and growth rates of the PFs were lower in buffaloes compared with ewes.
Information provision to clients with stroke and their carers: Self‐reported practices of occupational therapists
Authors: Gustafsson Louise , Hodge Anna , Robinson Mia , McKenna Kryss , Bower Kylie
Published: January 2009

Background:  The literature promotes the use of a wide range of educational materials for teaching and training clients with chronic conditions such as stroke. Client education is a valuable tool used by occupational therapists to facilitate client and carer ability to manage the stroke‐affected upper limb. The aim of this study was to identify what information was provided to clients and carers, how this information was delivered, when the information was delivered and the client factors that influenced the method of information provision.

Methods:  Convenience and snowball sampling was used to recruit occupational therapists working in stroke. Twenty‐eight participants completed the study questionnaire anonymously and their responses were summarised descriptively.

Results:  There was a clinically important trend for carers to receive less information than clients. Written and/or verbal information was the favoured method for delivering information related to handling (57%), soft‐tissue injury minimisation (46.4%) and oedema management (50%). Information was delivered with decreasing frequency from admission (86%) to discharge (64%). More than 90% of participants indicated that the client's cognitive ability, visual ability, level of communication, primary language and perceptual ability were considered prior to the delivery of information.

Discussion:  Participants regularly conveyed information to clients and carers with respect to management of the stroke‐affected upper limb. However, an increased emphasis on the development of practical self‐management skills, awareness of the impact of personal factors and a timeline for information provision may prove useful.
Hepatitis B virus genotypes and hepatitis B surface antigen mutations in family contacts of hepatitis B virus infected patients with occult hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Kumar Gollapudi Tarun , Kazim Syed Naqui , Kumar Manoj , Hissar Syed , Chauhan Ranjit , Basir Seemi Farhat , Sarin Shiv Kumar
Published: January 2009

Background:  The association and profile of surface gene mutations with viral genotypes have been studied in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) but not in subjects with occult HBV infection.

Aim:  This study aimed to investigate the association of surface gene mutations with viral genotypes in occult HBV infection.

Materials & Methods:  Of 293 family contacts of 90 chronic HBV index patients, 110 consented for the study. Of 110 subjects, 97 were hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) negative. HBV genotyping was done using direct DNA sequencing. The S‐gene was also sequenced in 13 chronic hepatitis B patients to serve as controls.

Results:  Twenty‐eight (28.8%) of the 97 subjects had occult HBV infection. Bidirectional sequencing of partial S‐gene was successful in 13 of them. Seven (53.8%) of the viral sequences are genotype A1, two (15.3%) each having genotypes D5&D2 and one each (7.6%) having D1&G genotypes. Seven (53.8%) of the 13 HBsAg positive patients, had genotype D&6 (46.1%) genotype A. A128V & T143M mutations were observed in 5 of 13 (38.4%) subjects and A128V & P127S in 2 of 13 (15.3%) patients (P = 0.385). A128V mutation was seen in two (15.3%) subjects with D2 genotype, while T143M mutation was seen in three (23.07%) subjects with A1genotype. At aa125, three (23.07%) subjects with D5 genotype had methionine instead of threonine. There were wild type sequences in five (38.4%) subjects, one each of D1, G genotypes (20%) and four A1 (80%) genotypes. None of the subjects had G145R mutation.

Conclusions:  Occult HBV infection may be common in household contacts of chronic HBV infected patients. Equal prevalence of A&D sub‐genotypes was present in occult HBV subjects and in chronic HBV patients. Mutations of the S‐gene are genotype specific in both occult as well as chronic HBV infection.
Differential effect of oleic and palmitic acid on lipid accumulation and apoptosis in cultured hepatocytes
Authors: Ricchi Matteo , Odoardi Maria Rosaria , Carulli Lucia , Anzivino Claudia , Ballestri Stefano , Pinetti Adriano , Fantoni Luca Isaia , Marra Fabio , Bertolotti Marco , Banni Sebastiano , Lonardo Amedeo , Carulli Nicola , Loria Paola
Published: January 2009

Background and Aim:  Studies have shown monounsaturated oleic acid to be less toxic than palmitic acid and to prevent/attenuate palmitic acid hepatocites toxicity in steatosis models in vitro. However, to what degree these effects are mediated by steatosis extent is unknown.

Methods:  We evaluated whether steatosis per se is associated with hepatocytes apoptosis and determined the role of oleic and palmitic acid, the most abundant fatty acids in western diets, on triglyceride accumulation and apoptosis in an in vitro model of steatosis induced in three hepatocytic cell lines (HepG2, HuH7, WRL68). The impact of incubation for 24 h with oleic (0.66 and 1.32 mM) and palmitic acid (0.33 and 0.66 mM), alone or combined (molar ratio 2 : 1) on steatosis, apoptosis, and insulin signalling, was evaluated.

Results:  Concurrent with PPARγ and SREBP‐1 gene activation, steatosis extent was larger when cells were treated with oleic than with palmitic acid; the latter fatty acid was associated with increased PPARα expression. Cell apoptosis was inversely proportional to steatosis deposition. Moreover, palmitic, but not oleic acid, impaired insulin signalling. Despite the higher amount of fat resulting from incubation of the two fatty acids combined, the apoptosis rate and impaired insulin signalling were lower than in cells treated with palmitic acid alone, indicating a protective effect of oleic acid.

Conclusions:  Oleic acid is more steatogenic but less apoptotic than palmitic acid in hepatocityc cell cultures. These data may provide a biological basis for clinical findings on dietary patterns and pathogenetic models of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Hepatitis B vaccination in haemodialysis patients: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: BOCK MARILENE , BARROS ELVINO , VERONESE FRANCISCO JV
Published: January 2009

Aim:  A short vaccination protocol against hepatitis B was compared to the standard approach in patients under haemodialysis who were primarily non‐responsive to the vaccine.

Methods:  This randomized, controlled open trial included 51 chronic haemodialysis subjects previously vaccinated against hepatitis B and with anti‐HBs levels of less than 10 IU/mol/L. Twenty‐six patients received 20 µg i.m. once a week for 8 weeks (short protocol) and 25 subjects three doses of 40 µg i.m. at months 0, 1 and 6 (standard protocol). Clinical and laboratory data were compared between responders and non‐responders. A logistic regression model included selected parameters to assess risk factors for non‐seroconversion.

Results:  Seroconversion rates to vaccine at 2 months were 80% and 78% in the short and standard protocol groups, respectively (P = 0.99). Median of anti‐HBs levels were similar up to 6 months of follow up, but patients in the standard protocol showed a trend to higher anti‐HBs in month 3 and a more steady decline in antibody titres. Non‐responders were older, had longer duration of dialysis and a higher prevalence of a prior renal transplant and hepatitis C. In multivariate analysis, only advanced age and hepatitis C remained independently associated with non‐responsiveness to vaccination.

Conclusion:  In haemodialysis patients, a short vaccination protocol against hepatitis B did not provide any benefit compared to the standard approach with respect to peak anti‐HBs titres or a higher rate of seroprotection at the end of follow up. Other strategies to increase seroconversion rates should be explored, especially in the elderly and in patients with hepatitis C.
The role of magnetic resonance imaging in targeting prostate cancer in patients with previous negative biopsies and elevated prostate‐specific antigen levels
Authors: Lawrentschuk Nathan , Fleshner Neil
Published: January 2009

In the past 20 years, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has developed rapidly, along with the management of localized prostate cancer. We summarize current data on the efficacy of MRI for targeting cancer, compared with biopsies, in patients with previous negative prostate biopsies and persistently elevated prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels. The key clinical question is how many men benefit by having had prostate cancer detected purely because of the MRI‐targeted, as opposed to standard scheme, biopsies. We reviewed all available databases for prospective studies in patients having MRI and prostate biopsy with previous negative biopsies and persistently elevated PSA levels. Six studies fulfilled the selection criteria, with 215 patients in all; in these studies, the cancer‐detection rate at repeat biopsy was 21–40%. For MRI or combined MRI/MR spectroscopy, the overall sensitivity for predicting positive biopsies was 57–100%, the specificity 44–96% and the accuracy 67–85%. In five studies, specific MRI‐targeted biopsies and standard cores were taken, with a significant proportion (34/63, 54%) having cancer detected purely because of the MRI‐targeted cores. The value of endorectal MRI and MR spectroscopy in patients with elevated PSA levels and previous negative biopsies to target peripheral zone tumours appears to be significant. Although more data obtained with current technologies are needed, published results to data are encouraging. A comparison study and cost‐benefit analysis of MRI‐targeted vs saturation biopsy in this group of patients would also be ideal, to delineate any advantages.
Serenoa repens extract targets mitochondria and activates the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in human prostate cancer cells
Authors: Baron Antonella , Mancini Mariangela , Caldwell Elizabeth , Cabrelle Anna , Bernardi Paolo , Pagano Francesco
Published: January 2009

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of Serenoa repens extract (Sr) in human PC3 and LNCaP prostate cancer and MCF7 breast cancer cells, with specific emphasis on the role of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, as the molecular pathway through which Sr, a natural product of plant origin, induces death of prostate cancer cells in culture is still unknown.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Cellular and mitochondrial structure and function, and the cell cycle, were analysed using light, electron and fluorescence microscopy, spectrophotometry and flow cytometry. Apoptosis was evaluated using biochemical and cytohistochemical methods.

RESULTS

Cells treated with Sr underwent massive vacuolization and cytosolic condensation, followed by cell death only in the prostate lines. Within minutes of adding Sr to prostate cells, it caused opening of the permeability transition pore (PTP), which led to complete mitochondrial depolarization within 2 h, and to the appearance of small, pycnotic mitochondria. Release of cytochrome c and SMAC/Diablo to the cytosol was detectable after 4 h of treatment, while caspase 9 activation and poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase 1 cleavage occurred at 16 h, followed by appearance of a sub‐G1 peak and apoptosis at 24 h.

CONCLUSION

Sr selectively induces apoptotic cell death of prostate cancer cells through the intrinsic pathway, and activation of the mitochondrial PTP might play a central role in this process.
A double‐blind randomized controlled trial of electromagnetic stimulation of the pelvic floor vs sham therapy in the treatment of women with stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Gilling Peter J. , Wilson Liam C. , Westenberg Andre M. , McAllister William J. , Kennett Katie M. , Frampton Christopher M. , Bell Deborah F. , Wrigley Patricia M. , Fraundorfer Mark R.
Published: January 2009

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of extracorporeal electromagnetic stimulation (ES) of the pelvic floor for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI) vs sham ES.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 70 women with urodynamically confirmed SUI were randomized to receive active (35) or sham (35) ES. The NeoControl chair (NeoTonus, Marietta, GA, USA) was used, and treatment consisted of three sessions per week for 6 weeks. data were collected before and after treatment on all women, including a 20‐min provocative pad‐test with a predetermined bladder volume (primary outcome measure), a 3‐day bladder diary and 24 h pad‐test. Circumvaginal muscle (CVM) rating score, perineometry using two separate instruments and video‐urodynamics were also used, and the Urinary Incontinence Quality of Life Scale (I‐QOL) and King’s Health Questionnaires. Patients were fully re‐evaluated 8 weeks after treatment, and the bladder diary, pad‐test and questionnaires were repeated at 6 months. The urotherapist and physician were unaware to which treatment group the patient was assigned.

RESULTS

In the overall group of 70 patients there were significant improvements in each of the primary and secondary outcome measures at 8 weeks. There were also significant improvements in primary and secondary outcome measures in the active treatment group when compared with baseline measures. At 8 weeks, there were improvements in the mean (sd) values for the 20‐min pad‐test, of 39.5 (5.1) vs 19.4 (4.6) g (P < 0.001); the 24‐h pad‐test, of 24.0 (4.7) vs 10.1 (3.1) g (P < 0.01); the number of pads/day, of 0.9 (0.1) vs 0.6 (0.1) (P < 0.01), the I‐QOL score, of 63.7 (2.8) vs 71.2 (3.3) (P < 0.001); and King’s Health Questionnaire score, of 9.6 (0.8) vs 6.9 (0.7) (P < 0.001). However, these improvements were not statistically significant when compared with the sham‐treatment group. In those patients on active treatment who had a poor pelvic floor contraction at the initial assessment (defined by the CVM score and perineometry), there was a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in the 20‐min pad‐test leakage when compared with the sham‐treatment group.

CONCLUSIONS

ES was no more effective overall than sham treatment in this patient group. However, in those women who were unable to generate adequate pelvic floor muscle contractions, there was an objective improvement in provocative pad testing when compared to sham treatment.
Urological symptom clusters and health‐related quality‐of‐life: results from the Boston Area Community Health Survey
Authors: Hall Susan A. , Link Carol L. , Tennstedt Sharon L. , Mollon Patrick , Aiyer Lalitha Padmanabhan , Chapple Christopher R. , Wein Alan J. , Rosen Raymond C.
Published: January 2009

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether urological symptom clusters, as identified in previous studies, were associated with health‐related quality‐of‐life (HRQoL) and use of healthcare.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The Boston Area Community Health Survey is a population‐based epidemiological study of 2301 male and 3201 female residents of Boston, MA, USA, aged 30–79 years. Baseline data collected from 2002 to 2005 were used in this analysis. Data on 14 urological symptoms were used for the cluster analysis, and five derived symptom clusters among men and four among women were used in multivariate linear regression models (adjusted for age group, race/ethnicity, and comorbidity) to determine their association with physical (PCS‐12) and mental health component scores (MCS‐12) calculated from the Medical Outcomes Study 12‐item Short Form Survey.

RESULTS

For both men and women, being in the most symptomatic cluster was associated with decrements in the PCS‐12 score (men, cluster 5, −10.42; women, cluster 4, −9.80; both P < 0.001) and the MCS‐12 score (men, cluster 5, −9.35; women, cluster 4, −6.24; both P < 0.001) compared with the asymptomatic groups. Both men and women in these most symptomatic clusters appeared to have adequate access to healthcare.

CONCLUSION

For men and women, those with the most urological symptoms reported poorer HRQoL in two domains after adjusting for age and comorbidity, and despite adequate access to care.
Reliability and validity of the modified Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Score in diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy
Authors: Bril V. , Tomioka S. , Buchanan R. A. , Perkins B. A. ,   the mTCNS Study Group
Published: January 2009

Introduction  A reliable and valid clinical tool to capture symptoms and signs of diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy (DSP) for use in clinical research trials is urgently needed. The validated Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Score (TCNS) was modified to improve sensitivity to early DSP changes. We aimed to assess the reproducibility of this modified tool, the mTCNS and to determine its validity relative to the precursor TCNS.

Methods  Sixty‐five patients (six Type 1, 59 Type 2 diabetes) with diabetes duration 13 ± 8 years were accrued from four study sites and examined on 2 days for internal consistency and inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability of the mTCNS. In the absence of a single quantitative gold‐standard measure for DSP, results of the mTCNS were compared with the precursor TCNS for the purpose of estimating validity.

Results  Internal consistency of the two domains within the mTCNS was good (Cronbach's alpha 0.78). Very good inter‐rater reliability for the mTCNS was demonstrated by an intra‐class correlation coefficient for the mTCNS of 0.87 (95% confidence interval, 0.79–0.91), which was similar in magnitude to that of the TCNS (0.83; 95% confidence interval, 0.75–0.89). Intra‐rater reliability testing of the mTCNS showed moderate to good correlation for individual symptoms and sensory tests (Cohen's kappa values of 0.54–0.73). The mTCNS shared moderate correlation with the precursor TCNS (Pearson correlation coefficient, 0.58).

Discussion  The mTCNS, a clinical score with higher face validity for tracking mild to moderate DSP, has sufficient reliability and validity relative to its precursor TCNS for use in clinical research.
Socially Responsible Fixed‐Income Funds
Authors: Derwall Jeroen , Koedijk Kees
Published: January 2009

Abstract:  The growing importance of SRI in the investment arena has resulted in considerable academic interest in the performance of socially responsible equity mutual funds. Remarkably, no attempts have been made to evaluate the performance of mutual funds that invest in socially responsible fixed‐income securities. This study fills that gap by measuring the performance of socially responsible bond and balanced funds relative to matched samples of conventional funds, over the period 1987–2003. Using multi‐index performance evaluation models, we show that the average SRI bond fund performed similar to conventional funds, while the average SRI balanced fund outperformed its conventional peers by more than 1.3% per year. The expenses charged by SRI funds, match those charged by conventional funds and, evidently, do not cause SRI funds to underperform.
The functional, rheological and sensory characteristics of ice creams with various fat replacers
Authors: KARACA OYA BERKAY , GÜVEN MEHMET , YASAR KURBAN , KAYA SEVIM , KAHYAOGLU TALIP
Published: January 2009

The effects of fat replacers (Simplesse® D‐100, N‐Lite D, and inulin) on the melting characteristics, overruns, hardness, rheological parameters and sensory attributes of reduced (RF, 60.0 g/kg), low (LF, 40.0 g/kg), and nonfat (NF, 1.0 g/kg) ice creams were investigated. The magnitudes of the melting rates were in the order RF>LF>NF for samples that contained Simplesse® D‐100 or inulin, but the reverse order was found for samples with N‐Lite D. The nonfat ice creams had lowest overrun values of around 10%. Inulin‐containing ice creams possessed higher overrun values than others (P > 0.05). The use of fat replacer decreased the hardness of ice creams. All ice cream samples showed pseudoplastic (shear‐thinning) behavior. The addition of N‐Lite D and inulin decreased the flow behaviour index of ice cream samples. The reduced and low fat ice cream samples were rated as similar to the control by a sensory panel. On the other hand, no correlations (P > 0.05) were observed between rheological parameters and sensory texture and mouthfeel.
Influence of Landscape Elements in Riparian Buffers on the Conservation of Semiaquatic Amphibians
Authors: FICETOLA GENTILE FRANCESCO , PADOA‐SCHIOPPA EMILIO , DE BERNARDI FIORENZA
Published: January 2009

Abstract:  Studies on riparian buffers have usually focused on the amount of land needed as habitat for the terrestrial life stages of semiaquatic species. Nevertheless, the landscape surrounding wetlands is also important for other key processes, such as dispersal and the dynamics of metapopulations. Multiple elements that influence these processes should therefore be considered in the delineation of buffers. We analyzed landscape elements (forest cover, density of roads, and hydrographic network) in concentric buffers to evaluate the scale at which they influence stream amphibians in 77 distinct landscapes. To evaluate whether our results could be generalized to other contexts, we determined whether they were consistent across the study areas. Amphibians required buffers of 100–400 m of suitable terrestrial habitat, but interspecific differences in the amount of habitat were large. The presence of amphibians was related to roads and the hydrographic network at larger spatial scales (300–1500 m), which suggests that wider buffers are needed with these elements. This pattern probably arose because these elements influence dispersal and metapopulation persistence, processes that occur at large spatial scales. Furthermore, in some cases, analyses performed on different sets of landscapes provided different results, which suggests caution should be used when conservation recommendations are applied to disparate areas. Establishment of riparian buffers should not be focused only on riparian habitat, but should take a landscape perspective because semiaquatic species use multiple elements for different functions. This approach can be complex because different landscape elements require different spatial extents. Nevertheless, a shift of attention toward the management of different elements at multiple spatial scales is necessary for the long‐term persistence of populations.
Methodology of QT‐Interval Measurement in the Modular ECG Analysis System (MEANS)
Authors: Kors Jan A. , Van Herpen Gerard
Published: January 2009

Background: QT prolongation as can be induced by drugs, signals the risk of life‐threatening arrhythmias. The methodology of QT measurement in the modular ECG analysis system (MEANS) is described.

Methods: In the simultaneously recorded leads of the standard 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG), the QRS complexes are detected by a spatial velocity function. They are typed as dominant or nondominant, and a representative complex per lead is obtained by averaging over the dominant complexes. QRS onset and T end are determined by a template technique, and QT is measured. MEANS performance was evaluated on the 125 ECGs of the common standards for quantitative electrocardiography (CSE) multilead database, of which the waveform boundaries have been released.

Results: MEANS detected correctly all 1445 complexes of the CSE library, with one false‐positive detection due to a sudden baseline jump. All dominant complexes were correctly typed. The average of the differences between MEANS and reference was less than 2 ms (=1 sample) for both QRS onset and T end, and 2.1 ms for QT duration. The standard deviation of the differences was 3.8, 8.4, and 10.4 ms, respectively.

Conclusions: A standard deviation of 10.4 ms for QT measurement seems large when related to the regulatory requirement that a prolongation as small as 5 ms should be detected. However, QT variabilities as encountered in different individuals will be larger than when measured in one individual during pharmacological intervention. Finally, if the U wave is part of the total repolarization, then T and U form a continuum and the end of T becomes questionable.
Robust QT Interval Estimation—From Algorithm to Validation
Authors: Xue Joel Q.
Published: January 2009

Background: This article presents an effort of measuring QT interval with automatic computerized algorithms. The aims of the algorithms are consistency as well as accuracy. Multilead and multibeat information from a given segment of ECG are used for more consistent QT interval measurement.

Methods: A representative beat is generated from selected segment of each lead, and then a composite beat is formed by the representative beats of all independent leads. The end result of the QT measure is so‐called global QT measurement, which usually correlates with the longest QT interval in multiple leads. Individual lead QT interval was estimated by using the global measurement as a starting point, and then adapted to the signal of the particular lead and beat. In general, beat‐by‐beat QT measurement is more prone to noise, therefore less reliable than the global estimation. It is usually difficult to know if difference of beat‐by‐beat QT interval is due to true physiological change or noise fluctuation.

Results: The algorithm was tested independently by a clinical database. It is also tested against action potential duration (APD) generated by a Cell‐to‐ECG forward‐modeling based simulation signals. The modeling approach provided an objective test for the QT estimation. The modeling approach allowed us to evaluate the QT measurement versus APD. The mean error between the algorithm and cardiologist QT intervals is 3.95 ± 5.5 ms, based on the large clinical trial database consisting of 15,910 ECGs. The mean error between QT intervals and maximum APD is 17 ± 2.4, and the correlation coefficient is 0.99.

Conclusions: The global QT interval measurement method presented in this study shows very satisfactory results against the CSE database and a large clinical trial database. The modeling test approach used in this study provides an alternative “gold standard” for QT interval measurement.
Calcium and ER stress mediate hepatic apoptosis after burn injury
Authors: Jeschke Marc G. , Gauglitz Gerd G. , Song Juquan , Kulp Gabriela A. , Finnerty Celeste C. , Cox Robert A. , Barral José M. , Herndon David N. , Boehning Darren
Published: January 2009

A hallmark of the disease state following severe burn injury is decreased liver function, which results in gross metabolic derangements that compromise patient survival. The underlying mechanisms leading to hepatocyte dysfunction after burn are essentially unknown. The aim of the present study was to determine the underlying mechanisms leading to hepatocyte dysfunction and apoptosis after burn. Rats were randomized to either control (no burn) or burn (60% total body surface area burn) and sacrificed at various time‐points. Liver was either perfused to isolate primary rat hepatocytes, which were used for in vitro calcium imaging, or liver was harvested and processed for immunohistology, transmission electron microscopy, mitochondrial isolation, mass spectroscopy or Western blotting to determine the hepatic response to burn injury in vivo. We found that thermal injury leads to severely depleted endoplasmic reticulum (ER) calcium stores and consequent elevated cytosolic calcium concentrations in primary hepatocytes in vitro. Burn‐induced ER calcium depletion caused depressed hepatocyte responsiveness to signalling molecules that regulate hepatic homeostasis, such as vasopressin and the purinergic agonist ATP. In vivo, thermal injury resulted in activation of the ER stress response and major alterations in mitochondrial structure and function – effects which may be mediated by increased calcium release by inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptors. Our results reveal that thermal injury leads to dramatic hepatic disturbances in calcium homeostasis and resultant ER stress leading to mitochondrial abnormalities contributing to hepatic dysfunction and apoptosis after burn injury.
Machine learning approach identifies new pathways associated with demyelination in a viral model of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ulrich Reiner , Kalkuhl Arno , Deschl Ulrich , Baumgärtner Wolfgang
Published: January 2009

Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis is an experimentally virus‐induced inflammatory demyelinating disease of the spinal cord, displaying clinical and pathological similarities to chronic progressive multiple sclerosis. The aim of this study was to identify pathways associated with chronic demyelination using an assumption‐free combined microarray and immunohistology approach. Movement control as determined by rotarod assay significantly worsened in Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis ‐virus‐infected SJL/J mice from 42 to 196 days after infection (dpi). In the spinal cords, inflammatory changes were detected 14 to 196 dpi, and demyelination progressively increased from 42 to 196 dpi. Microarray analysis revealed 1001 differentially expressed genes over the study period. The dominating changes as revealed by k‐means and functional annotation clustering included up‐regulations related to intrathecal antibody production and antigen processing and presentation via major histocompatibility class II molecules. A random forest machine learning algorithm revealed that down‐regulated lipid and cholesterol biosynthesis, differentially expressed neurite morphogenesis and up‐regulated toll‐like receptor‐4‐induced pathways were intimately associated with demyelination as measured by immunohistology. Conclusively, although transcriptional changes were dominated by the adaptive immune response, the main pathways associated with demyelination included up‐regulation of toll‐like receptor 4 and down‐regulation of cholesterol biosynthesis. Cholesterol biosynthesis is a rate limiting step of myelination and its down‐regulation is suggested to be involved in chronic demyelination by an inhibition of remyelination.