bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA polymorphism of HLA class II genes in pauciarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Morling Nials , Friis Johannes , Fugger Lars , Geergsen Jergen , Heilmann Carsten , Pedersen Freddy Karup , Bdum Niels , Svejgaard Arne
Published: October 2008

Abstract: We investigated the DNA restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II genes: HLA‐DRB, ‐DQA, ‐DQB, DPA, and ‐DPB in 54 patients with pauciarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (PJRA) and in healthy Danes. The frequencies of DNA fragments associated with the following HLA class II genes were increased in PJRA when compared to normal controls: DRBI*08 (DRw8) (35.2% vs 10.3%, RR = 4.6, p< 10−3), DRB3*01/02/03 (DRw52) (76.3% vs 48.1%, RR 3.5, p< 10−3), DQAI*0401 (41.0% vs 7.4%, RR = 7.9, p< 10−3), DQAI*0501 (55.6% vs 29.7%, RR = 3.0, p< 10−2, DQBI*0301 (DQw7) (46.2% vs 17.5%, RR = 4.0; p< 10−2), DPA1*0201 (44.2% vs 7.9%, RR = 8.7, p< 10−5), and DPB1*02 (DPw2) (40.7% vs 7.1%, RR = 8.5, p< 10−6). The frequency of DRBI*II was not significantly increased. The frequencies of DNA fragments associated with the following HLA class II genes were decreased in PJRA although not statistically significantly so after‘correction’of p values: DRBI*04 (14.8% vs 40.2%, RR = 0.27; p < 10−3) DRB1*07 (0% vs 25.9%, RR = 0.04, p< 10−3), DRB4*0101 (DRw53) (25.9% vs 53.6%, RR = 0.31, p < 10−3), DQA1*0102 (11.6% vs 36.0%, RR = 0.25, p < 10−4) and DQA1*0201 (2.6% vs 34.2%, RR = 0.05, p< 10−2). Individuals who carried certain combinations of two of the risk factors seemed to have a further increased risk of developing PJRA compared to individuals carrying only one of the risk factors. The combinations of HLA class II genes primarily involved were: DRBI*08 and DQAI*0501, DRB1*08 and DQB1*0301, DRB1*08 and DPA1*0201, DQA1*0401 and DQB1*0301, DQA1*0401 and DPA1*0201, DQA1*0501 and DPB1*0201, and DQA1*0501 and DPB1*02, although other combinations also gave odds ratios which were non‐significantly increased compared to the odds ratios of the individual genetic markers. The data suggest that HLA class II gene products coded by genes at different loci interact in the susceptibility of PJRA.
DNA typing for HLA‐DR, and ‐DP alleles in a Chinese population using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and oligonucleotide probes
Authors: Gao Xiaojiang , Sun Yiping , An Jabin , Fernandez‐Viñ Marcelo , Qou Jinan , Lin Ling , Stastny Peter
Published: October 2008

Abstract: We have determined alleles of HLA‐DRB1, DRB3, DRB5, DQA1, DQB1, and DPB1 loci in 91 unrelated healthy individuals from North China. Group‐specific PCR primers were employed for the analysis of subsets of DR1, DR2, DR4, DRw52, and DPB. With allele‐specific probes, 22 DRB1, 8 DQA1, 13 DQB1, and 12 DPB1 alleles were found in this panel. Allele frequencies showed that 25.3% of the subjects had DR7 and 26.4% had DR9, only 5.5% had DRB1*0301 (DRwl7). In the DR4 group, DRB1*0405 (Dw15, 8.8%) and 0406 (KT2, 9.9%) were the most prevalent alleles. DRB1*0404 (Dw14.1), 0407 (Dw13.2) and 0408 (Dw14.2) were absent and the other alleles of the DR4 group were rare. The most common DRw6 subset was DRB1*1401 (8.8%). DRB1*0802 and 0803 were present (2.2%, 6.6%), and DRB1*0801 was not found. Associations with DQA1 and DQB1 were generally similar to those found in other populations. DPB1*0501 was the most frequent (60.2%) allele at the DPB1 locus. Overall our study shows that the distribution of class I1 alleles in a population from Mainland China is quite different from other ethnic groups. The high frequency of the KT2 subset of DR4 (DRB1*0406) and of DPB1*0501 are the most striking features found. A new type of DR4 was determined in one subject. It was like DR4‐Dw15 (DRB 1*0405) but, according to our hybridization patterns, it encoded valine instead of glycine in position 86. It is now called DRB1*0410.
Gametic association of HSP70‐1 promoter region alleles and their inclusion in extended HLA haplotypes
Authors: Cascino I. , D'Alfonso S. , Cappello N. , Giordano M. , Pugliese A. , Awdeh Z. , Alper C. A. , Richiardi P. Momigliano
Published: October 2008

Abstract: Gametic associations of a three‐allele polymorphism of the HSP70‐I promoter region were analyzed in a random North Italian population, in 69 HLA homozygous cell lines and in 29 families in Boston, all typed for HLA class I, class 11 and complement alleles. Significant phenotypic associations were detected in the random population between HSP70‐1 alleles and several HLA markers carried by extended haplotypes. The inclusion of HSP70‐1 alleles in extended haplotypes, suggested by population analysis, was confirmed in genotyped cells, including 10W HLA homozygous cell lines and families, selected for the presence of the whole set of alleles reported for conserved extended haplotypes. Every tested extended haplotype was exclusively associated with a given HSP70‐1 allele, except those carrying DR1. HSP70‐I C was included in both [HLA‐B8. SCOI, DR3] and [HLA‐B18, FlC30, DR3] extended haplotypes, accounting for the previously observed strong association with DR3. In addition the same allele was found on the [HLA‐B13, SC31, DR71, on the [HLA‐B62, SB42, DR4] and on the [HLA‐B60, SC02, DR131 extended haplotypes. The HSP70‐1 A allele was carried by all DR4+ extended haplotypes except the one above cited. HSP70‐1 B correlated with DR10, DQB1*0501 and BF*E Thus the HSP70‐1 promoter alleles provide new precisely located markers of extended haplotypes.
DNA‐binding proteins for transcription enhancing region of HLA class I gene
Authors: Park Jeon Han , Lee Hang Woog , Fleischhauer Katharina L. , Kim Chul Gun , Sheffery Michael , Yang Soo Young
Published: October 2008

Abstract: Class I regulatory complex (CRC) located in the 5′‐upstream region of MHC class I. gene contains transcriptional enhancing sequences, called Enh A. This Enh A region contains tandem‐arranged κB‐ like sites, one of which has a well‐conserved perfect palindromic sequence. The second κB‐like site, juxtaposed to the perfect palindrome, contains an imperfect palindromic sequence. In B‐cell nuclear extracts, we have identified at least four sequence‐specific protein complexes; three shared the repeated κB enhancer as their binding motifs. The perfect palindromic sequence facilitates the binding of a complex termed BI, while the imperfect palindrome provides the binding sites for two other complexes, BII and BIII. The BII and BIII complexes exhibited binding crossreactivity with other κB‐related motifs and recognized both the perfect and imperfect palindromic sequences, whereas the BI complex was specific for the perfect palindromic sequence which is unique to the class I promoters. A DNA segment outside the repeated KB enhancers probably binds the fourth complex, BIV. These complexes, except for the perfect palindrome‐binding complex, differ from those described for the murine class I promoter. The binding characteristics of these factors suggest that the mechanism controlling the class I transcription may be quite complex.
DNA typing of HLA‐B gene in Takayasu's Arteritis
Authors: Yosshda Masayuki , Kimura Akineri , Katsuragl Kiyoneri , Numano Fujle , Sasazuki Takehike
Published: October 2008

Abstract: Sixty‐four patients with Takayasu's arteritis and 156 healthy individuals in the Japanese population were examined for HLA‐B specificity at the DNA level by DNA typing using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)/sequence‐specific oligonucleotide probe (SSOP) analysis and by subsequent sequencing analysis. The frequency of epitope combination group‐B52 (EC‐B52) corresponding precisely to HLA‐B52 specificity and that of EC‐B39.2 which is a newly‐identified subtype of HLA‐B39 specificity were increased in the patient group. These two disease‐associated HLA‐B alleles share an epitope composed of 63Glu and 67Ser. Because two HLA‐B alleles, HLA‐B51 and B39.1, which are similar but different at the epitope from HLA‐B52 and B39.2, respectively, are not associated with Takayasu arteritis, 63Glu and 67Ser are supposed to be involved in the pathogenesis.
Defining the common subtypes of HLA A9, A10, A28 and A19 by use of ARMS/PCR
Authors: Krausa Peter , Bodmer Julia G. , Browning Michael J.
Published: October 2008

Abstract: We describe sequence‐specific primer (SSP) combinations for use in a one‐step polymerase chain reaction (PCR) typing system to determine HLA‐A locus subtypes of A9 (A23, A24), A10 (A25, A26, A43), A28 (A*6801, A*6802, A*6901) and A19 (A*2901, A*2902, A*3001, A*3002, A31, A32, A33) from genomic DNA. SSP's were designed on the basis of the amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS) in which a mismatch at the 3′ residue inhibits non‐specific amplification. The SSP combinations described extend our low‐resolution typing system, to provide a high‐definition typing of the HLA‐A locus.
Computed tomography measurement of lung volume in preoperative assessment for living donor lung transplantation: Volume calculation using 3D surface rendering in the determination of size compatibility
Authors: Camargo Jose J. P. , Irion Klaus L. , Marchiori Edson , Hochhegger Bruno , Porto Nelson S. , Moraes Beatriz G. , Meyer Gisela , Caramori Marlova , Holemans John A.
Published: October 2008

Abstract:  The objective of this study was to describe the use of CT volume quantification assessment of candidates for LLDLT. Six pediatric candidates for LDLLT and their donors were investigated with helical chest CT, as part of the preoperative assessment. The CT images were analyzed as per routine and additional post‐processing with CT volume quantification (CT densitovolumetry) was performed to assess volume matching between the lower lobes of the donors and respective lungs of the receptors. CT images were segmented by density and region of interest, using post‐processing software. Size matching was also assessed using the FVC formula. Compatible volumes were found in three cases. The other three cases were considered incompatible. All three recipients with compatible sizes survived the procedure and are alive and well. One patient with incompatible size was submitted to the procedure and died because of complications attributed to the incompatible volumes. One patient with incompatible size has subsequently grown and new measurements are to be taken to check the current volumes. Different donors are being sought for the remaining patient whose lung volumes were considered too big for the prospective transplant donor lobes. Under FVC formula criteria, all cases were considered compatible. CT volume quantification is an easy to perform, non‐invasive technique that uses CT images for the preassessment of candidates for LDLLT, to compare the volume of the lower lobes from the donors with volume of each lung in the prospective recipients. Size matching based on CT densitovolumetry and FVC may differ.
Life history parameters for Nesidiocoris tenuis (Reuter) (Het., Miridae) under different temperature regimes
Authors: Sanchez J. A. , Lacasa A. , Arnó J. , Castañé C. , Alomar O.
Published: October 2008

The development time for eggs and nymphs and female fertility were determined for Nesidiocoris tenuis Reuter (Het., Miridae: Dicyphini) at 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 ± 1°C, using tomato, Solanum esculentum (Miller), as substrate and eggs of Ephestia kuehniella Zeller as substitute prey. At 40°C, N. tenuis was unable to develop and barely reproduced. Egg development ranged from 30.8 days at 15°C to 6.3 days at 35°C. The cumulative thermal requirements for the eggs were 148.6 degree days (°d) and the lower thermal threshold, 10.3°C. The duration of the nymphal instar decreased from 55.9 days at 15°C to 8.6 days at 35°C. The thermal constant for the nymphs was 182.3 °d and the lower thermal threshold 11.7°C. No nymphs survived at 40°C, and the highest mortalities were at extreme temperatures (15 and 35°C). Female and male weights were influenced significantly by temperature. The fertility of N. tenuis females was reduced greatly at 15 and 40°C. The highest fertility during an observation period of 18 days following female emergence (79.5–60.0 nymphs per female) was within the temperature range of 20 to 35°C. Fertility was related directly to female weight and temperature (r2 = 0.932). Based on development, reproduction data and thermal requirements, the optimum temperature range for N. tenuis was established as being between 20 and 30°C. Overall, N. tenuis is the most thermophilous of all dicyphines from vegetable crops in the Mediterranean area studied so far.
Expression of hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α in primary ovarian mucinous tumors
Authors: Sugai Mika , Umezu Hajime , Yamamoto Takashi , Jiang Shuying , Iwanari Hiroko , Tanaka Toshiya , Hamakubo Takao , Kodama Tatsuhiko , Naito Makoto
Published: October 2008

Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily and is expressed in several endodermal tissues. The aim of the present study was to examine the expression of HNF4α on ovarian epithelial tumors with immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry using mAbs recognizing P1 and P2 promoter‐driven HNF4α. Ovarian mucinous adenoma, mucinous tumors of borderline malignancy, and mucinous adenocarcinoma had positive nuclear staining for HNF4α (41/45, 91%). One‐third (34%) of mucinous tumors had P1‐positive staining and most had P1/P2‐positive staining (93%). MUC2‐ and MUC5AC‐positive staining was observed in 34% and 95% of mucinous tumors, respectively. The histological subtype of these mucinous tumors was not correlated with HNF4α expression. On cytology it was found that cancer cells in the ascites from ovarian mucinous adenocarcinomas were HNF4α positive, but tumor cells in ascites from other types of ovarian carcinomas were negative for HNF4α. Thus, HNF4α is demonstrated to be a useful marker for histological and cytological diagnosis of ovarian mucinous tumors.
Immunohistochemical detection of carcinoma in radical prostatectomy specimens following hormone therapy
Authors: Kusumi Tomomi , Koie Takuya , Tanaka Masanori , Matsumoto Kazuhito , Sato Fuyuki , Kusumi Akinori , Ohyama Chikara , Kijima Hiroshi
Published: October 2008

Following hormone therapy, residual carcinoma is frequently difficult to identify on HE‐stained prostatectomy specimens. The aim of the present study was therefore to investigate whole‐mounted specimens obtained by radical prostatectomy from patients who had undergone hormone therapy. Formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded specimens were immunostained with prostate secretory cell markers including prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), P504S (α‐methylacyl‐coenzyme A racemase, AMACR), P501S (prostein), and prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA). Residual carcinoma was detected in 250 histological slides of 42 patients in a total of 497 slides from 45 patients. In five of 250 slides (2%), carcinoma was not able to be recognized on HE‐stained slides, but was found on the immunohistochemistry slides. PSMA had reacted positively beyond a moderate degree in carcinoma from all patients. PSA was positive for carcinoma in most of the patients, while negative or minimal staining was observed in a small number of patients. Carcinoma was positively reactive with P504S and P501S in most of the patients, but was negatively reactive in a few. The Gleason score for a pretreatment needle biopsy correlated with P504S staining of the prostatectomy specimens. P504S and P501S had limited ability to identify degenerated carcinoma. PSMA was the most useful marker to identify carcinoma after hormone therapy.
Characterization of adenocarcinoma of the lung in a familial adenomatous polyposis patient
Authors: Shinmura Kazuya , Suzuki Masaya , Yamada Hidetaka , Tao Hong , Goto Masanori , Kamo Takaharu , Nagura Kiyoko , Kageyama Shinji , Kato Motohiro , Ogawa Seishi , Maekawa Masato , Takamochi Kazuya , Suzuki Kazuya , Nakamura Toshio , Sugimura Haruhiko
Published: October 2008

The incidence of several extracolonic tumors, such as duodenal carcinoma, is higher in familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) patients than in the general population, but there is little information about lung carcinoma in FAP. A 43‐year‐old woman presented with a lung tumor 17 years after total colectomy for FAP. Pathohistological analysis of the lung tumor demonstrated mixed adenocarcinoma consisting of a papillary adenocarcinoma component and a bronchioloalveolar carcinoma component. Sequencing analysis indicated a germline APC mutation from TCA to TGA (stop) at codon 1110, but no pathogenic germline MYH mutations. The other APC allele in the lung carcinoma was not inactivated by somatic mutations, promoter methylation, or chromosomal deletion. No somatic mutations in any of the coding regions of the p53 gene or in the mutation hot spot regions of the K‐ras or EGFR genes were detected in the carcinoma. Amplification, however, of three chromosome regions, 5p, 8q, and 12q14‐12q21, was identified in the carcinoma on genome‐wide high‐resolution single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarray. The present results suggest that the chromosomal copy number alterations detected on SNP microarray were involved in the carcinogenesis of the adenocarcinoma of the lung in the present FAP patient.
Confusing cases: Clear cell but not renal cell lesions in kidney
Authors: Baydar Dilek , Aydin Ozgur
Published: October 2008

Diagnosis of low‐grade clear cell lesions in kidney can be challenging to the pathologist in practice. There is limited information in the literature addressing the practical issues that may be encountered in this regard. Herein is presented two cases: one was an adrenal cortical nodule; the second, an intrarenal adrenal heterotopia that was assumed to be renal cell carcinoma initially. Certain red flags should prompt pathologists to investigate further; close morphological examination including immunohistochemistry may be warranted in these lesions.
Low‐grade malignant soft‐tissue perineurioma: Interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Sato Katsuaki , Ueda Yoshimichi , Miwa Shinji , Yokogawa Akio , Ozaki Mamoru , Katsuda Shogo
Published: October 2008

Perineuriomas are usually benign soft‐tissue tumors that arise from perineurial cells of the peripheral nerve sheath. Low‐grade malignant perineurioma is a rare type of perineurioma, presenting with infiltrative growth, low mitotic activity, and a lack of necrosis. This report describes a case of low‐grade malignant perineurioma in a 60‐year‐old man who presented with a growing tumor on the dorsal side of his left wrist. The tumor was surgically excised and showed no adhesion to the surrounding muscle and no continuity with nerves. There was no evidence of recurrence or metastases 12 months after surgery. Histology indicated that the tumor contained hypercellular and hypocellular areas with spindle‐shaped cells proliferating in storiform patterns or perivascular whorling. There was moderate infiltrative growth into the surrounding tissue. There was an evident central infarction but no coagulative necrosis. Mitotic figures were observed at 5/10 high‐power fields. On immunohistochemistry tumor cells were found to be positive for epithelial membrane antigen, glucose transporter protein 1, and claudin‐1. Approximately 18.4% of tumor nuclei were labelled for Ki‐67. Interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization on paraffin sections indicated a loss of chromosome 13. This suggests that chromosome 13 abnormalities could also be involved in perineurioma with low‐grade malignant potential.
Tumoral calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal deposition disease of the temporomandibular joint: Identification on crystallography
Authors: Mikami Toshinari , Takeda Yasunori , Ohira Akinori , Hoshi Hideki , Sugiyama Yoshiki , Yoshida Yasuo , Ambo Junichi
Published: October 2008

This paper reports a case of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) crystal deposition in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of a 59‐year‐old man with the chief complaint of severe pain in the left TMJ. On CT a radiopaque area was seen around the condylar process of the left TMJ with irregular destructive bony changes. A provisional diagnosis of crystalline‐induced arthritis was made on histopathology of a biopsy specimen. Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction showed both CPPD and hydroxyapatite (HA) in the crystalline materials. Identification of these two types of crystal in crystal deposition disease of TMJ, using crystallography, is discussed.
Pulmonary epithelioid hemangioendothelioma mimicking mesothelioma
Authors: Bahrami Armita , Allen Timothy C. , Cagle Philip T.
Published: October 2008

An intrathoracic mass was discovered on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine in a 37‐year‐old Caucasian man with a 1 year history of progressively severe upper back pain. A subsequent chest CT scan indicated a 4 cm left hilar mass, extending to the apex and encasing a portion of the left bronchus and pulmonary artery. Initial bronchoscopic and transthoracic biopsies failed to obtain diagnostic material. The patient underwent thoracotomy and was found to have a locally advanced, surgically unresectable lung tumor, involving the pleura, pericardium and diaphragm. The patient failed to respond to radiochemotherapy, and died 11 months following the diagnosis with tamponade and metastasis to the skin of the thoracoabdominal wall. Histologically the tumor had an epithelioid and spindled appearance, without high‐grade histological features, and was initially thought to represent biphasic diffuse malignant mesothelioma. Positive immunohistochemistry for vascular markers (CD31, CD34, and FLI‐1) disclosed the vascular nature of the tumor. Mesothelioma markers were universally negative and cytokeratin was focally reactive only in some epithelioid cells. Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is a rare tumor in the lung that can mimic other more common pathological entities, and should be included in the differential diagnosis of unusual pulmonary neoplasms with epithelioid or biphasic morphology.
Sclerosing hemangioma, presenting as a pneumonic pattern with mucinous adenomatous hyperplasia of the lung
Authors: Choi Keum H. , Baek Hyun A. , Park Ho S. , Jang Kyu Y. , Jin Gong‐Yong , Kim Min H. , Lee Yong C. , Moon Woo S. , Chung Myoung‐Ja
Published: October 2008

Pulmonary sclerosing hemangioma is generally considered a rare neoplasm presenting as a solitary benign nodule. During routine medical examination multiple abnormal nodular shadows were detected in the right lower lung field on chest X‐ray in a 48‐year‐old asymptomatic woman. The patient underwent wedge resection for the pulmonary lesion. The resected lung had numerous scattered tiny nodules and small nodules congregated together, forming larger nodules. All of these lesions had typical features of sclerosing hemangioma. The authors call this unusual growth pattern of sclerosing hemangioma a ‘pneumonic pattern’. Adjacent to the largest lesion, a relatively well‐defined small mucinous lesion composed of mucinous tall columnar cells and basaloid squamous cells was detected. Because this lesion did not have expression of thyroid transcription factor‐1, it is described as mucinous adenomatous hyperplasia.
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the thyroid gland showing marked ciliation suggestive of its pathogenesis
Authors: Ando Mizuo , Nakanishi Yukihiro , Asai Masao , Maeshima Akiko , Matsuno Yoshihiro
Published: October 2008

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the thyroid gland is a rare tumor first described by Rhatigan et al. in 1977. Its pathogenesis is still controversial. With regard to its most likely origin, some authors have suggested that it arises directly from follicular epithelium whereas others have proposed that it arises from ultimobranchial body (diverticulum from the fourth pharyngeal pouch) remnants, also known as solid cell nests (SCN). Herein is reported a unique case of thyroid mucoepidermoid carcinoma. The patient, a 67‐year‐old man, presented with a non‐tender thyroid mass and vocal cord fixation. The tumor was poorly defined, necessitating subtotal thyroidectomy with composite resection of the adjacent structures. Pathologically, the tumor cells had characteristics of mucoepidermoid carcinoma, along with layers of columnar cells showing marked ciliation resembling respiratory‐type epithelium, suggesting that this rare tumor had originated from SCN. p63 immunopositivity in the tumor provided additional evidence for the pathogenesis.
Segmental testicular infarction due to cholesterol embolism: Not the first case, but the first report
Authors: Adachi Shiro , Tsutahara Koh‐ichi , Kinoshita Tatsuya , Hatano Koji , Kinouchi Toshio , Kobayashi Masao , Inoue Hitoshi , Takada Tsuyoshi , Hara Tsuneo , Yamaguchi Seiji
Published: October 2008

Segmental infarction of the testis represents a rare entity in that there have been fewer than 40 cases documented in the literature. Like global infarction, segmental infarction of the testis can masquerade as a mass lesion or torsion of the testis. Reported herein is a very rare case of segmental testicular infarction due to atheroembolism in a 58‐year‐old man. The patient presented with severe left testicular pain and underwent left high orchiectomy on the clinical diagnosis of testicular torsion. The testis had a segmental hemorrhagic necrosis around which many cholesterol emboli were observed. This is the first report to describe cholesterol embolism‐associated segmental testicular infarction.
Plethysmographic lung volumes in children with sighing dyspnea
Authors: Wong Kin‐Sun , Chiu Chih‐Yung , Huang Yu‐Hsuan , Huang Li‐Ju
Published: October 2008

Background:  This study compared the plethysmographic lung volumes of children with sighing dyspnea with healthy children and tested the hypothesis that sighing children suffer from hyperinflation or gas trapping as a cause of dyspnea.

Methods:  From January 2006 to December 2006, pediatric patients with sighing dyspnea presenting to the pulmonary clinic of a tertiary children’s hospital who had no apparent cardiopulmonary diseases were prospectively enrolled; normal healthy children were invited to participate for comparison. Baseline pre‐bronchodilator spirometry and post‐inhaled bronchodilator spirometry were measured for the determination of bronchodilator response. Plethysmographic lung volumes were determined solely for total lung capacity, residual volume (RV) and functional residual capacity (FRC) without the use of inhaled bronchodilator according to standard procedure.

Results:  Eighteen sighing children (10 boys) and 10 healthy subjects (six boys) were included in the present study. They had a median age of 13 years (range, 8–15 years) and 13 years (range, 8–17 years), respectively. The mean baseline forced vital capacity (FVC) of subjects with dyspnea was 79.4 ± 16.7% of predicted, while that of the normal control children was 88.4 ± 6.7%, which was not statistically significantly different. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), FEV1/FVC % of predicted were within normal limits and indicated no bronchodilator response. RV and RV/total lung capacity (TLC) were elevated in children with sighing dyspnea that were not measured by spirometry, but TLC and FRC measured on plethysmography (FRCpleth) were not increased.

Conclusions:  RV and RV/TLC were higher in children with sighing dyspnea that were not measured by spirometry, but TLC and FRCpleth were not increased. The causal link between dysfunctional breathing patterns and changes in static lung volumes was not able to be determined in the present study. The possibility of heterogeneity of patients with sighing dyspnea obscures the significance of lung volume discrepancy in this population; further subdivision of children with sighing dyspnea in a larger cohort of patients is required.
Parental stress associated with caring for children with Asperger’s syndrome or autism
Authors: Mori Kyoko , Ujiie Takeshi , Smith Anna , Howlin Patricia
Published: October 2008

Background:  The levels of parental stress among parents of children with Asperger’s syndrome in comparison with parents of children with autism are unknown in the Japanese population.

Methods:  The stress levels in Japanese parents caring for children with Asperger’s syndrome were compared with the stress levels found in Japanese parents caring for children with autism using the Parenting Stress Index/Short Form.

Results:  In a sample of 193 families, both groups had a significant increase in parental stress levels. In addition, strong evidence was obtained for the presence of higher levels of parental stress in the Asperger’s group compared with the parents of the autism group after controlling for the impact of confounders, F(5,187) = 9.11, P = 0.003. The elevated levels of parental stress found in the Asperger’s group appeared to be attributable to characteristics associated with the child’s basic behavior. The potential mechanism, implications and strategies for further research are discussed.

Conclusion:  There are significantly elevated parental stress levels in Japanese parents of children with Asperger’s syndrome or autism. In addition, the total parental stress levels were significantly higher in parents of children with Asperger’s syndrome than in parents of children with autism.
Fine structure of spermatozoa of Chondrostoma nasus and Rutilus meidingerii (Teleostei, Cyprinidae), as revealed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Fürböck Sonja , Patzner Robert A. , Lahnsteiner Franz
Published: October 2008

Fürböck, S., Patzner, R.A. and Lahnsteiner, F. 2008. Fine structure of spermatozoa of Chondrostoma nasus and Rutilus meidingerii (Teleostei, Cyprinidae), as revealed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. — Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 91: 88–95

The fine structure of spermatozoa of sneep or nase, Chondrostoma nasus, and lake chub, Rutilus meidingerii, was investigated by means of scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The uniflagellate spermatozoa of C. nasus lacked an acrosome. The flagellum contained the conventional nine peripheral doublets and one central pair of microtubules (9 + 2 pattern) and lacked lateral fins. The uniflagellate spermatozoa of R. meidingerii were made up of a head, also without an acrosome. For both species the sperm tail was covered by a plasma membrane. The midpiece of C. nasus contained five or six mitochondria on average, vesicles and glycogen granules, whereas the midpiece of R. meidingerii had seven mitochondria of a spherical or ovoid shape. The centriolar complex was located caudolaterally with respect to the nucleus. In C. nasus, the centrioles were orientated at an angle of 125° to each other, whereas the centrioles of R. meidingerii were at an angle of 110°. The fine structure of C. nasus and R. meidingerii spermatozoa showed species‐specific differences in the position of the proximal centriole relative to the distal centriole, the position and number of mitochondria, size of the head and the length of the flagellum. (Correction added on 11 June 2009, after first online publication: The word ‘axoneme’ was deleted from the sentence ‘The flagellum contained the conventional nine peripheral doublets and one central pair of microtubules (9 + 2 pattern) axoneme and lacked lateral fins.’)
Functional and oncological outcomes after orthotopic neobladder reconstruction in women
Authors: Granberg Candace F. , Boorjian Stephen A. , Crispen Paul L. , Tollefson Matthew K. , Farmer Sara A. , Frank Igor , Blute Michael L.
Published: October 2008

OBJECTIVE

To review our experience with orthotopic neobladder reconstruction (ONR) in women, highlighting functional and oncological outcomes, as ONR has been used increasingly for urinary diversion in women after radical cystectomy (RC), largely due to a better understanding of the natural history of urothelial cell carcinoma (UCC) and of the anatomy underlying the female continence mechanism, but defining the safety and long‐term efficacy of ONR remain important to expanding its use.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We identified 59 women who had RC with ONR between 1995 and 2006 at the Mayo Clinic. Their records were reviewed for clinicopathological demographics, and functional and oncological outcomes.

RESULTS

The median (range) age at surgery of the women was 62 (20–82) years, and the median follow‐up was 29.2 (1–141) months. Fifty‐three women had RC for malignant disease, including UCC in 47. Five women (8.5%) required resection of the anterior vaginal wall during surgery, while 39 (66%) had concurrent hysterectomy. One patient had a positive surgical margin, at the left distal ureter, on final pathology. Thirteen (22%) patients had perioperative complications, including two (3%) who required reoperation. In addition, three patients (5%) developed a neobladder‐vaginal fistula after RC with ONR, requiring surgical repair. At the last follow‐up, daytime urinary continence (defined as needing no pads) was reported by 44/49 (90%) patients, while 28/49 (57%) had achieved continence at night. Seventeen (31%) patients required intermittent self‐catheterization to facilitate emptying of the neobladder. Fifteen (28%) women had recurrence of disease, at a median of 8 (2–36) months after ONR, including seven (13%) who developed a pelvic recurrence. Twelve (20%) patients died during the follow‐up, with four (8%) dying from UCC at a median of 14 (11–65) months after surgery.

CONCLUSION

ONR provides a safe and effective option for urinary diversion in women, with oncological and functional outcomes similar to those for men. Thus, the technique remains a preferred option for urinary diversion in appropriately selected women treated with RC.
Systemic therapy for advancing or metastatic prostate cancer (STAMPEDE): a multi‐arm, multistage randomized controlled trial
Authors: James Nicholas D. , Sydes Matthew R. , Clarke Noel W. , Mason Malcolm D. , Dearnaley David P. , Anderson John , Popert Richard J. , Sanders Karen , Morgan Rachel C. , Stansfeld Jim , Dwyer John , Masters John , Parmar Mahesh K.B.
Published: October 2008

There is a need to improve the outcomes for men with high‐risk localised, nodal or metastatic prostate cancer, or with aggressively relapsing disease after initial therapy for local disease. This group of men is currently managed with long‐term hormone therapy. Thus we aim to evaluate the toxicity and efficacy of three different systemic therapies (docetaxel, zoledronic acid and celecoxib) used alone or combined at the initiation of hormone manipulation for high‐risk prostate cancer. A novel statistical design (multi‐arm, multistage method) simultaneously tests multiple distinct strategies in parallel against a single control arm. The trial has several ‘stages’, from initial confirmation of safety to a phase III assessment of survival, with a series of intervening activity stages. This method provides a means of assessing several agents more quickly and efficiently, and allows inactive treatments to be dropped from further study at an early stage. STAMPEDE has been designed to address in parallel the activity and efficacy of these agents for this patient group. It is a flagship randomized clinical trial for academic research into prostate cancer in the UK. More than 500 patients have been recruited on schedule, confirming the acceptability of this complex trial design to patients and clinicians. The trial targets a population of ≈3000 patients.

STAMPEDE is a major new trial with a novel design applicable to the synchronous testing of several agents. It is hoped that the results will improve outcomes for patients with high‐risk prostate cancer. The design could be applicable to the study of new therapies in other cancer types. Continued efforts are required by the urological cancer community to maintain the excellent recruitment shown to date.
Real‐Time Indirect Illumination and Soft Shadows in Dynamic Scenes Using Spherical Lights
Authors: Guerrero P. , Jeschke S. , Wimmer M.
Published: October 2008

We present a method for rendering approximate soft shadows and diffuse indirect illumination in dynamic scenes. The proposed method approximates the original scene geometry with a set of tightly fitting spheres. In previous work, such spheres have been used to dynamically evaluate the visibility function to render soft shadows. In this paper, each sphere also acts as a low‐frequency secondary light source, thereby providing diffuse one‐bounce indirect illumination. The method is completely dynamic and proceeds in two passes: In a first pass, the light intensity distribution on each sphere is updated based on sample points on the corresponding object surface and converted into the spherical harmonics basis. In a second pass, this radiance information and the visibility are accumulated to shade final image pixels. The sphere approximation allows us to compute visibility and diffuse reflections of an object at interactive frame rates of over 20 fps for moderately complex scenes.
Shape Context Preserving Deformation of 2D Anatomical Illustrations
Authors: Chen Wei , Liang Xiao , Maciejewski Ross , Ebert David S.
Published: October 2008

In this paper, we present a novel two‐dimensional (2D) shape context preserving image manipulation approach which constructs and manipulates a 2D mesh with a new differential mesh editing algorithm. We introduce a novel shape context descriptor and integrate it into the deformation framework, facilitating shape‐preserving deformation for 2D anatomical illustrations. Our new scheme utilizes an analogy based shape transfer technique in order to learn shape styles from reference images. Experimental results show that visually plausible deformation can be quickly generated from an existing example at interactive frame rates. An experienced artist has evaluated our approach and his feedback is quite encouraging.
Cressie–Read Power‐Divergence Statistics for Non‐Gaussian Vector Stationary Processes
Authors: OGATA HIROAKI , TANIGUCHI MASANOBU
Published: October 2008

Abstract. For a class of vector‐valued non‐Gaussian stationary processes, we develop the Cressie–Read power‐divergence (CR) statistic approach which has been proposed for the i.i.d. case. The CR statistic includes empirical likelihood as a special case. Therefore, by adopting this CR statistic approach, the theory of estimation and testing based on empirical likelihood is greatly extended. We use an extended Whittle likelihood as score function and derive the asymptotic distribution of the CR statistic. We apply this result to estimation of autocorrelation and the AR coefficient, and get narrower confidence intervals than those obtained by existing methods. We also consider the power properties of the test based on asymptotic theory. Under a sequence of contiguous local alternatives, we derive the asymptotic distribution of the CR statistic. The problem of testing autocorrelation is discussed and we introduce some interesting properties of the local power.
OVERGRAZING IN PASTORAL AREAS
Authors: Gilles Jere Lee , Jamtgaard Keith
Published: October 2008

The tragedy of the commons concept as popularized by Garrett Hardin places the blame for desertification and overgrazing in pastoral areas upon the land tenure system. Common ownership of pastureland is seen as the major culprit. Examination of ethnographic literature does not reveal a close relationship between common ownership of pastures and resource depletion. Where large numbers of people share a pasture with low but highly variable yields, common ownership is the most desirable form of land tenure. There are many situations where common pastures have been properly managed. Examples from Switzerland, Peru and Africa are presented. These examples illustrate the basic characteristics of a properly managed common grazing system. Collective ownership of land can under these circumstances facilitate livestock development rather than impede it.

La tragédie des terres communales ‐ concept popularisé par Garret Hardin ‐ situe la responsabilité de la désertification et du surpaturage dans les zones pastorales au niveau du système de propriété de la terre. La propriété commune des paturages est considérée comme la cause majeure. Un examen de la littérature ethnographique ne confirme pas une relation évidente entre cette propriété commune et un épuisement des ressources. Aux endroits où un grand nombre de gens partagent un paturage dont les rendements sont bas mais très variables, cette propriété commune apparaît comme la meilleure forme d'utilisation de la terre. Il y a d'ailleurs de nombreux cas où ces paturages communs ont été correctement organisés; des exemples de Suisse, du Pérou et d'Afrique sont décrits. Ils montrent les caractéristiques fondamentales d'un système bien organisé de paturage collectif: dans ces conditions, un usage collectif de la terre peut faciliter la croissance du cheptel plutôt que l'empêcher.

Das von Garrett Hardin verbreitete Konzept der Tragödie der Gemeinschaftsweiden macht die Bodeneigentumsverhältnisse für Verwüstung und Überweidung von Weidegebieten verantwortlich. Gemeinschaftliches Eigentum an Weideland wird als Hauptursache dafür angesehen. Das Studium ethnographischer Literatur läßt dagegen keine enge Beziehung zwischen gemeinschaftlichem Eigentum und Zerstörung von natürlichen Resourcen erkennen. Dort, wo eine große Zahl von Menschen sich ein Weidegebiet mit niedrigen, aber sehr stark variierenden Erträgen miteinander teilt, ist gemeinschaftliches Eigentum die bestgeeigneteste Bodeneigentumsform. Es gibt viele Gemeinschaftsweiden, die gut geführt werden. Es werden Beispiele dafür aus der Schweiz, aus Peru und Afrika vorgestellt. Diese Beispiele zeigen die grundlegenden Merkmale eines gut geführten gemeinschaftlichen Weidennutzungssystems auf. Gemeinschaftliches Bodeneigentum kann unter diesen Bedingungen die Entwicklung der Viehhaltung eher erleichtern als erschweren.
PARTICIPATORY DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Authors: Galjart Benno
Published: October 2008

Based on an analysis of cases culled from the literature and collected in the field, a model of small‐scale participatory development projects is constructed. The article begins with an attempt to anchor participation within development theory. Then critera for what, on this basis, should be considered a successful project are spelled out. Selected problems, connected with the economic, the organizational and the educational aspects of participatory projects arc dealt with in turn.

Cet article propose la construction d'un modèle de projets de développement participatif de petite dimension, à partir de l'analyse d'un certain nombre de cas tirés de la littérature ou observés sur le terrain. Il commence par tenter d'articuler la participation à une théorie du déVeloppement. Il insiste ensuite sur les critères à partir desquels on peut évaluer la réussite d'un projet. Enfin l'article aborde quelques problèmes liés aux aspects économiques, organisationnels ou éducatifs des projets participatifs.

Gestützt auf eine Analyse von Fallbeispielen aus der Literatur und aus Felduntersuchungen wird ein Modell kleinerer, partizipatorischer Projekte aufgestellt. Der Artikel beginnt mit einem Versuch, Partizipation entwicklungstheoretisch zu verankern. Dann werden ausführlich Kriterien erläutert, denen ein Projekt genügen müßte, wenn es danach als erfolgreich angeschen werden soll. Nacheinander werden einzelne ausgewählte Probleme behandelt, die mit den ökonomischen, organisatorischen und Bildungsaspekten partizipatorischer Projekte verbunden sind.
CULTIVATION AND ADAPTATION:
Authors: Box Louk
Published: October 2008

Cultivators have provided essential links in the development of ecosystems and social systems, by way of continuous innovative adaptations. Crop cultivation practices can be studied as one such adaptation. Analysis shows that in recent times significant changes have taken place in crop characteristics, due to crop adaptation to market conditions or “mercantication”. Such changes in crop characteristics may be more important than quantitive changes like increased crop yields.

The social characteristics of crop cultivation need investigation from a comparative perspective. The sociologist of agriculture needs to involve himself in the study of these characteristics, in particular relating to the division of labor for crop production and reproduction. Moreover, he can provide biological scientists and others with insight into values and interests of different actors involved in crop cultivation and development.

En procédant de manière permanente à des adaptations innovatrices, les cultivateurs ont constitué des maillons essentiels dans le développement des systèmes tant écologiques que sociaux. Les pratiques culturales peuvent être considérées comme une de ces adaptations. Et l'analyse montre que des transformations se sont récemment produites dans les systèmes de culture, à cause de l'adaptation aux conditions du marché ou “mercantication”. Ces changements peuvent avour une importance aussi grande que des transformations quantitatives comme la croissance des rendements.

Les caractéristiques sociales des modes de culture requièrent unc étude comparative. Le sociologue de l'agriculture doit s'impliquer luimêmc dans leur étude, en particulier au niveau de la division du travail dans la production et la reproduction de ces modes de culture. En outre, il peut éclairer les biologistes et les autres spécialistes à propos des systèmes de valeurs et d'intérêts qui conditionnent les acteurs engageés dans l'agriculture et son développement.

Landwirte haben durch kontinuierliche innovative Anpassungen wichtige Verbindungen zwischen Ökosystemen und Sozialsystemen geschaffen. Verfahren des Pflanzenbaus können als eine solche Anpassung untersucht werden. Analysen zeigen, daß sich in jüngster Zeit die Eigenschaften von Nutzpflanzen infolge der Anpassung an Markterfordernisse und ihre ≪Handelsfahigkeit≫ erheblich verändert haben. Solche Veränderungen der Eigenschaften von Nutzpflanzen können bedeutender sein als rein quantitative Veränderungen wie z.B. höhere Ernteerträge.

Die sozialen Merkmale des Pflanzenbaus erfordern vergleichende Untersuchungen. Der Agrarsoziologe muß sich dabei selbst in die Untersuchung einbeziehen, vor allem aufgrund der Arbeitsteilung bei der pflanzlichen Erzeugung und deren Weitercntwicklung. Mehr noch, er kann Biologen und anderen Wissenschaftlern Einsichten in die Werthaltungen und Intcressen der verschiedenen Akteure liefern, die beim Anbau von Nutzpflanzen und an der Entwicklung im Bereich des Pflanzenbaus beteiligt sind.
Impact of neurological and medical complications on 3‐month outcomes in acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Hong K.‐S. , Kang D.‐W. , Koo J.‐S. , Yu K.‐H. , Han M.‐K. , Cho Y.‐J. , Park J.‐M. , Bae H.‐J. , Lee B.‐C.
Published: October 2008

Objective:  To evaluate the impact of neurological and medical complications on 3‐month outcomes in acute ischaemic stroke patients.

Methods:  We prospectively investigated complications for all the consecutive acute ischaemic stroke patients admitted within 7 days from onset in four university hospitals during a 1‐year period. Baseline data and 3‐month outcomes were collected. Poor outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale score 3–6.

Results:  A total of 1 254 patients were recruited: 264 (21.1%) and 303 (24.2%) patients experienced one or more neurological and medical complications, respectively. The most common complications were ischaemic stroke progression (17.1%) and pneumonia (12.0%). Of 1 233 patients with available 3‐month outcomes, 34.9% had a poor outcome. Multivariate analysis revealed that neurological (odds ratio, 95% confidence interval; 5.47, 3.63–8.24) and medical (3.47, 2.30–5.23) complications were independent predictors of the poor outcome. For the individual complications, ischaemic stroke progression (7.48, 4.73–11.84), symptomatic hemorrhagic transformation (3.57, 1.33–9.54), pneumonia (4.44, 2.20–8.99), extracranial bleeding (4.45, 1.88–10.53), and urinary tract infection (2.72, 1.32–5.60) were independently associated with the poor outcome.

Conclusion:  Outcome after ischaemic stroke is adversely influenced by complications, especially ischaemic stroke progression, symptomatic hemorrhagic transformation, pneumonia, extracranial bleeding, and urinary tract infection. Interventions to prevent those complications might improve ischaemic stroke outcome.