bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening and Evaluation of Maize Genotypes against Banded Leaf and Sheath Blight Disease under Artificial Epiphytotic Conditions
Authors: Yadav Lokesh , Kumar Ashwani , Singh Harbinder , Yadav Naresh Kumar , Pankaj .
Published: April 2022

Maize is important cereal crop and provides nutrition and basic raw material for various industries. Its production is hampered by various biotic and abiotic factors. Among various pathogens attacking maize, banded leaf and sheath blight (BLSB) caused by Rhizoctonia solani f.sp sasakii is a very serious impediment for quality maize production. There is very less availability of resistance sources against this disease. There is a need to develop resistant varieties to overcome the health hazards associated with the excessive use of chemical pesticides. Keeping in view the importance of the disease, the present investigation was carried out at Regional Research Station Uchani, Karnal  of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar and twenty seven hybrids and sixty inbred lines of maize were screened and scored for their disease reaction against banded leaf and sheath blight disease to find out new sources of resistance so that it can boost future maize breeding programmes. Results revealed that seven maize hybrids viz., HM-8, HKI 295×L287, HKI 327T×L287, HKI 1041-2×L287, HKI 1663×193-2, PC-8ER-2×PC SONA, PCMYD-7×PC SONA and only two inbred lines viz., HKI 1128 and HKI 1345 W of maize showed resistant reaction (≤ 33.33% disease severity) against R. solani under artificial inoculation conditions.
OPTIMASI RESOURCE CONSTRAINED PROJECT SCHEDULING PROBLEM MENGGUNAKAN METODE GENETIC ALGORITHM DAN SYMBIOTIC ORGANISMS SEARCH
Authors: Sikomena Evan Filbert , Widyadana I Gede Agus , Prayogo Doddy
Published: April 2022

Resource Constrained Project Scheduling Problem (RCPSP) merupakan gabungan dari permasalahan sumber daya yang terbatas dan juga permasalahan perencanaan penjadwalan proyek. Penting untuk mengatur atau mengalokasikan sumber daya yang terbatas guna menghasilkan waktu yang optimal. Untuk itu dilakukan penelitian lebih mendalam untuk mengetahui metode mana yang baik dalam menyelesaikan RCPSP. Ada lima jenis proyek dengan karakteristik yang berbeda-beda serta jumlah item pekerjaan yang beragam yang digunakan sebagai study case. Penelitian ini membandingkan Symbiotic Organisms Search (SOS) dan Genetic Algorithm (GA) untuk melihat mana yang memberikan waktu yang optimal dengan sumber daya yang terbatas. Kelima proyek menggunakan parameter yang sama yaitu populasi 50 dan iterasi 500 kali untuk SOS dan GA. Untuk jenis laptop yang gunakan untuk running program pun sama. Hasil dari penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa SOS memberikan waktu yang lebih optimal dibandingkan dengan GA. SOS memberikan solusi lebih baik dari keadaan nyata pada empat dari lima proyek ketika menurunkan 30% sumber daya sedangkan GA hanya memberikan solusi yang lebih baik dari keadaan nyata pada dua dari lima proyek. Dari hasil optimasi, SOS menghasilkan rata-rata penurunan waktu sebanyak 30.35% sedangkan GA menghasilkan rata-rata penurunan waktu sebanyak 25.39%.

Resource Constrained Project Scheduling Problem (RCPSP) is a combination of limited resource problems and project scheduling planning problems. It is important to manage or allocate limited resources in order to produce optimal time. For this reason, more in-depth research was carried out to find out which method was good for completing RCPSP. There are five types of projects with different characteristics and a variety of work items those are used as study cases. This study compares Symbiotic Organisms Search (SOS) and Genetic Algorithm (GA) to see which one gives the optimal time with limited resources. The five projects used the same parameters, such as population 50 and iterations 500 times for SOS and GA. The type of laptop that is used for running programs is the same. The results of this study concluded that SOS provides a more optimal time than GA. SOS provided better than real life solutions in four out of five projects when reduced 30% of resources whereas GA only provided better than real life solutions in two out of five projects. From the optimization results, SOS produces an average time reduction of 30.35% while GA produces an average time reduction of 25.39%.
A Study on Tourist Perception towards Social Media as a Reliable Source of Information
Authors: Joseph Branden Jude , Zakir H. Fahad , Prasath B. Hari , Prabha Dr.D. Divya
Published: April 2022

As the tourism industry seeks to acquire the business of the Baby Boomer generation, the travel habits of this age have been the subject of much research and analysis. However, a new generation is quickly gaining ground on this one and will soon command the same level of attention: the Millennial. The above analysis, per its authors, is designed to investigate millennia's potential risk when using digital platforms to pick their tourist hotspot, as well as the connection between risk profile and perspective effectiveness in terms of willingness to use and recommend social media based on their outlook toward digital networking. For this aim, a sample of 90 respondents who utilise social media to identify vacation locations will be gathered from the respondents who do so. The data will be analysed using a variety of techniques, including percentage analysis, one-way ANOVA, descriptive statistics, and multiple regression. Millennial' attitudes toward social media should be taken into consideration when making decisions about their behaviour. Before drawing conclusions concerning millennia's opinions about online platforms, it is important to consider the following factors: normative beliefs, behavioural intention, desire to use social media, intention to advocate social media, perceived risk, and perceived rewards.
Characterisation of the RANTES/MIP‐1α receptor (CC CKR‐1) stably transfected in HEK 293 cells and the recombinant ligands
Authors: Proudfoot Amanda E.I. , Power Christine A. , Hoogewerf Arlene , Montjovent Marc-Olivier , Borlat Frederic , Wells Timothy N.C.
Published: July 2002

The CC chemokines RANTES and MIP‐1α are known to activate certain leucocytes and leucocytic cell lines. We have produced and fully characterised the recombinant proteins expressed in E. coli. They induce chemotaxis of the pro‐monocytic cell line, THP‐1 and T cells. THP‐1 cells express three of the known CC chemokine receptors. In order to study the activation of a single receptor, we have expressed the shared receptor (CC CKR‐1) for RANTES and MIP‐1α stably in the HEK 293 cell line. We have examined the effects of RANTES and MIP‐1α on the CC CKR‐1 transfectants by equilibrium binding studies and in a chemotaxis assay. RANTES competes for [125I]RANTES with an IC50 of 0.6 ± 0.23 nM, whereas MIP‐1α competes for its radiolabelled counterpart with an IC50 of 10 ± 1.6 nM in the transfectants. These affinities are the same as those measured on the THP‐1 cell line. The stably transfected HEK 293 cells respond to both these chemokines in the chemotaxis assay with the same EC50 values as those measured for THP‐1 cells. This indicates that this cellular response can be mediated through the CC CKR‐1 receptor.
Heterogeneous localization of epitopes along axonemes of mammalian cilia
Authors: Mencarelli Caterina , Tiezzi Antonio , Ruggiero Paolo , Contorni Mario , Massone Annalisa , Moscatelli Alessandra , Pallini Vitaliano
Published: July 2002

Summary— The specificity of four monoclonal antibodies, raised against mammalian ciliary axonemes, was determined by both immunofluorescence and immunoblot experiments. Three antibodies reacted with epitopes which are differentially located along axonemal length. Among these, antibody 3.12 recognized an epitope common to different dynein heavy chains, reacted only with tracheal cilia and specifically stained the proximal portion of the ciliary axoneme.
Morphometric analysis of liver and kidney peroxisomes in lactating rats and their pups after treatment with the peroxisomal proliferator di‐(2‐ethylexyl)phthalate
Authors: Stefanini Stefania , Serafini Barbara , Nardacci Roberta , Vecchioli Stefano Farioli , Moreno Sandra , Sartori Claudia
Published: July 2002

Summary— Di‐(2‐ethylexyl)phthalate (DEHP) administered to adult lactating rats from delivery to weaning induces age‐ and organ‐specific modifications of the peroxisomal morphometric parameters (VV, NA and D) in the liver and kidney of both rats and their pups. In both tissues, peroxisomal relative volume and catalase biochemical activity show a similar pattern during the development, as well as under DEHP treatment. Morphometric results suggest that two modalities of peroxisomal proliferation exist, involving: a) increases in both number and mean diameter of the organelles; b) a purely numerical increase of the organelles, accompanied by a remarkable decrement in their mean diameter. A peroxisomal population proliferated through the latter model appears unable to return to normal conditions, following treatment withdrawal. These two proliferation systems, the first implying a swelling and the latter a fragmentation of pre‐existing peroxisomal profiles, are supposed to be tissue‐specific in the adult animal. In particular, in the liver the ‘swelling’ model appears more suitable to explain peroxisome proliferation, while in the kidney this process would follow the ‘fragmentation’ model. Immature animals might instead show in both organs intermediate features of peroxisomal proliferation modalities.
Early replicating DNA involved in the G2 to M transition in Allium cepa L meristematic cells
Authors: Concha Miguel L. , Sans Jorge
Published: July 2002

Summary— The involvement of genome portions replicating at different times of the S phase in the control of cell cycle events was analysed in Allium cepa L meristematic cells. 5‐Azacytidine (5‐azaC) was incorporated into discrete replicating DNA portions in synchronous cells. Cells treated with 5‐azaC during the late S phase went through normal cell cycles while cells treated with 5‐azaC during the early S phase were able to go through the immediately succeeding mitosis, as well as to begin the subsequent S phase. However, they were unable to enter a second mitosis. Thus, sequences replicating in the early S phase appear to code for a mitotic inhibitor which represses the emergence of a positive mitotic signal. This inhibition took place in the first half of the interphase (ie during G1) and resulted in a cell cycle blockage in G2.
Gi1 and GoA differentially determine kinetic efficacies of agonists for κ‐opioid receptor
Authors: Kohno Masayuki , Fukushima Nobuyuki , Yoshida Akira , Ueda Hiroshi
Published: July 2002

We examined the diversity of single receptor function by measuring receptor–G protein coupling in the baculovirus–Sf21 expression system. In comparative studies using Sf21 cell membranes expressing κ‐opioid receptor (KOR) plus Gαi1β1γ2 or KOR plus GαoAβ1γ2, there was no significant difference between both preparations in the K
i values of various κ‐opioid ligands for the displacement of [3H]U69593 binding. However, a marked difference in the rank order of agonists to stimulate [35S]GTPγS binding was observed between both preparations. These findings suggest that agonist efficacy is dependent on the population of different G proteins expressed in various tissues.
A novel Ser O‐glucuronidation in acidic proline‐rich proteins identified by tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Jonsson Andreas P. , J. Griffiths William , Bratt Per , Johansson Ingegerd , Strömberg Nicklas , Jörnvall Hans , Bergman Tomas
Published: July 2002

Human acidic proline‐rich salivary protein PRP‐1 and its C‐terminally truncated form PRP‐3 were analyzed by electrospray tandem mass spectrometry. Post‐translational modifications were detected and characterized. A pyroglutamic acid residue was demonstrated at the N‐terminus, Ser‐8 and Ser‐22 were shown to be phosphorylated and an O‐linked glucuronic acid conjugation was identified. The latter modification was located to Ser‐17 and found to be present in approximately 40% of the polypeptides.
One functional subunit is sufficient for catalytic activity and substrate specificity of Escherichia coli endoribonuclease III artificial heterodimers
Authors: Conrad Christian , Schmitt Jens Guido , Evguenieva-Hackenberg Elena , Klug Gabriele
Published: July 2002

To study the intersubunit communication required for the activity of the normally homodimeric enzyme endoribonuclease III of Escherichia coli we have constructed and analysed an artificial heterodimer. This heterodimer is composed of one wild‐type and one catalytically inactive subunit. The inactive subunit has one amino acid exchanged (E117K, rnc70 mutant) which abolishes cleavage activity but still allows substrate binding of a rnc70‐homodimer. Our results show that one functional active site is sufficient for cleavage activity of the heterodimer.
Diphosphonucleotide phosphatase/phosphodiesterase from yellow lupin (Lupinus luteus L.) belongs to a novel group of specific metallophosphatases
Authors: Olczak Mariusz , Olczak Teresa
Published: July 2002

A cDNA encoding previously purified and characterized diphosphonucleotide phosphatase/phosphodiesterase (PPD1) from yellow lupin (Lupinus luteus L.) was identified. The ppd1 gene encodes a protein containing a cleavable signal sequence. A functional expression of PPD1 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae confirmed the proper gene identification. A gene homologous to ppd1, encoding a putative membrane protein (PPD2), as well as fragments of two other genes encoding PPD3 and PPD4 proteins were also isolated. Amino acids composing the putative active center of PPD1 and PPD2 are similar to those present in known purple acid phosphatases, which suggests that the reported genes might encode a novel group of specific metallophosphatases. RT‐PCR revealed that the corresponding PPD1 mRNA accumulates in stems and leaves, and PPD2 mRNA in stems, leaves and seedlings.
Caveolin‐1 isoforms are encoded by distinct mRNAs
Authors: Kogo Hiroshi , Fujimoto Toyoshi
Published: July 2002

By searching the EST database with the known cDNA sequence encoding α‐caveolin‐1 (full‐length: FL), we found a variant having a hitherto unknown sequence in place of the first exon (5′‐end variant: 5′V). The expression level of 5′V mRNA was equivalent to that of FL mRNA. The entire sequences of FL and 5′V mRNA were determined by 3′‐ and 5′‐RACE analysis; their sizes were 2484 bp and 2533 bp, respectively, and the sequences were identical except for the region of the first exon. By Northern blotting, FL and 5′V mRNAs showed the same tissue distribution, and were intensely expressed in the lung, heart, and skeletal muscle. Analyzing the protein production from these mRNAs using green fluorescent protein as a tag, we found FL mRNA to produce the α‐isoform predominantly, but to form little β‐isoform. The production of the β‐isoform from 5′V mRNA was also demonstrated. By sequence analysis of the first intron of the caveolin‐1 gene, a TATA box was found at 28 bp upstream of the transcription initiation site for 5′V mRNA. This is the first demonstration of caveolin‐1 mRNA variants generated by alternative transcription initiation, and it indicates that the two isoforms of caveolin‐1 are produced from two distinct mRNAs.
High resolution detection of rRNA and rDNA in plant nucleoli with different activities by in situ hybridization
Authors: Bassy Olga , Jiménez‐García Luis Felipe , Echeverría Olga M. , Vázquez‐Nin Gerardo H. , De La Espina Susana Moreno Díaz
Published: July 2002

Summary— In the present work we perform in situ hybridization with probes to different stretches of rDNA and electron microscopy of nucleoli with different activities, to gain insight into the ultrastructural organization of transcription and processing in the plant nucleolus. The main ultrastructural nucleolar components: fibrillar centers (FC), dense fibrillar component (DFC), and granular component (GC), are arranged in different ways depending on nucleolar activity. Heterogeneous FCs containing RNP fibrils and nucleolar perichromatin granules are frequently seen in nucleoli in the process of activation. DNA‐RNA in situ hybridization with biotinylated probes spanning different sequences of the rDNA unit followed by immunogold detection of biotin, demonstrated the localization of the ribosomal transcripts in DFC., mainly in the zones around the FCs, in GC, and in the periphery of pale FC. The internal region of the heterogeneous FCs is labeled only in cells in the process of activation of transcription after dormancy. The distribution of the U3 probe indicates that the processing of the rRNA takes place in the DFC and inside the heterogeneous FCs, in which transcription occurs. DNA‐DNA hybridization demonstrates the presence of rDNA in the compact and extended chromatin located in the interior and at the periphery of FCs and in nucleolar associated chromatin. Our results support the view that the plant nucleolus has a highly dynamic morphological and functional organization composed of a bipartite domain formed by FCs surrounded by DFC., which is associated with rRNA transcription and processing, and the GC representing a store of preribosomal particles.
Estimation of the Rate of Cloned Gene Integration via Retrotransposition
Authors: Wang Xiaohai , Da Silva Nancy A.
Published: July 2002

A theoretical method has been developed to estimate retrotransposition (integration) rates of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Ty3 and Ty1 retrotransposons bearing heterologous and homologous genes (neor, HIS3) . The method is based on population growth modeling and Lea and Coulson's maximal likelihood method for mutation rate estimation (Lea and Coulson, 1949) . This method has allowed us to examine directly retrotransposition rates of GAL‐regulated marked Ty3 and Ty1 elements into the whole yeast genome, not just a particular DNA sequence, for the purpose of cloned gene integration. The integration rates of a Ty3‐neor system (ca. 1 × 10−3 cell−1 generation−1) and a Ty1‐neor system (ca. (2–3) × 10−3 cell−1 generation−1) were not significantly affected by temperature (18 and 30 °C) . However, the retrotransposition rate of the Ty3‐neor‐HIS3 system increased from ca. 2 × 10−5 to 2 × 10−4 cell−1 generation−1 when the temperature was decreased from 30 to 18 °C. The retrotransposition rate of Ty3‐neor was significantly higher than that of Ty3‐neor‐HIS3 and slightly lower than that of Ty1‐neor. This method can be used to estimate integration rates of other Ty3 and Ty1 elements and to evaluate the efficiency of Ty‐mediated cloned gene integration.
Gastrin-stimulated gastric epithelial cell invasion: the role and mechanism of increased matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression
Authors: WROBLEWSKI Lydia E. , PRITCHARD David M. , CARTER Stuart , VARRO Andrea
Published: July 2002

The gastric hormone gastrin regulates the organization of the gastric epithelium, but the cellular control mechanisms are yet unknown. Epithelial remodelling typically involves extracellular proteolysis mediated by the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Since a gene-array analysis of the gastric cancer cell line AGS-GR suggested that gastrin increased MMP-9 expression, we examined the control of MMP-9 expression by gastrin. Gelatin zymography confirmed gastrin induction of MMP-9 in AGS-GR cells, but showed a small inhibition of MMP-2. Immunocytochemical studies showed that MMP-9 was localized to vesicles that appeared to traffic along the processes that were extended in response to gastrin. Gastrin stimulated the invasion of AGS-GR cells through artificial basement membrane, which was reduced by an inhibitor of MMP-2/−9. There was also an increase in MMP-9 in the stomach of patients with elevated plasma gastrin and multiple-endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN-1) syndrome, suggesting in vivo regulation of MMP-9 expression by gastrin. Finally, we showed that the expression of 1.9kb of human MMP-9 gene promoter coupled with luciferase (MMP-9-luc) was increased 7.65±1.2-fold by gastrin, via a pathway which includes stimulation of protein kinase C, and activation of Raf and the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway. The tumour suppressor menin (which is mutated in MEN-1 syndrome) inhibited the expression of MMP-9-luc by gastrin. These results suggest that gastrin increases MMP-9 expression, which is associated with increased invasion, and this is a putative mechanism regulating remodelling of the gastric epithelium.
Older patients with high‐risk fungal infections can be successfully allografted using non‐myeloablative conditioning in combination with intensified supportive care regimens
Authors: Hermann Stella , Klein Stefan A. , Jacobi Volkmar , Thalhammer Axel , Bialleck Heike , Duchscherer Michaele , Wassmann Barbara , Hoelzer Dieter , Martin Hans
Published: July 2002

Leukaemic patients with advanced disease and severe fungal infections as well as older patients with substantial co‐morbidity are usually excluded from conventional allotransplantation because of increased morbidity and mortality. We approached allogeneic transplantation in four patients with a median age of 62 years (one chronic myeloid leukaemia in blast crisis, one high‐risk acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) in first complete remission (CR1), one AML in 2nd relapse, one AML in CR2 with pre‐existing fungal lung infections (two aspergillus, two mucor) and additional co‐morbidity (diabetes n = 2, aortic aneurysm n = 1, arterial sclerosis n = 2) by combining non‐myeloablative conditioning with an intensified supportive care regimen, including amphotericin B and 4–12 (median 9) prophylactic granulocyte transfusions from granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF)‐stimulated volunteer donors. G‐CSF was also given to patients until neutrophil recovery. All four patients recovered to a neutrophil count of 0·5 × 109/l after a median of 11·5 d (range 11–13 d). Prophylactic granulocyte transfusions also reduced the need for platelet transfusions and minimized mucositis. All patients were discharged at a median of 25 d (range 18–59 d) and are alive and well after a median follow‐up of > 390 d (range 336–417 d) without evidence of leukaemia. Regression of the fungal lesions was documented in three patients, with a slight progression detected by computerized tomography scan of the chest in one patient. We conclude that pulmonary fungal infections are not a contraindication for allogeneic stem cell transplantation, if non‐myeloablative conditioning regimens are used in combination with granulocyte transfusions, intravenous amphotericin B and G‐CSF.
Comparing global models of terrestrial net primary productivity (NPP): analysis of the seasonal atmospheric CO2 signal
Authors: Nemry B. , FrançOis L. , Gérard J. ‐C. , Bondeau A. , Heimann M. , Intercomparison ThE. Participants OF. ThE. Potsdam NpP. Model
Published: July 2002

Eight terrestrial biospheric models (TBMs) calculating the monthly distributions of both net primary productivity (NPP) and soil heterotrophic respiration (RH) in the Potsdam NPP Model Intercomparison workshop are used to simulate seasonal patterns of atmospheric CO2 concentration. For each model, we used net ecosystem productivity (NEP = NPP – RH) as the source function in the TM2 atmospheric transport model from the Max‐Planck Institute for Meteorology. Comparing the simulated concentration fields with detrended measurements from 25 monitoring stations spread over the world, we found that the decreasing seasonal amplitude from north to south is rather well reproduced by all the models, though the amplitudes are slightly too low in the north. The agreement between the simulated and observed seasonality is good in the northern hemisphere, but poor in the southern hemisphere, even when the ocean is accounted for. Based on a Fourier analysis of the calculated zonal atmospheric signals, tropical NEP plays a key role in the seasonal cycle of the atmospheric CO2 in the whole southern hemisphere. The relatively poor match between measured and predicted atmospheric CO2 in this hemisphere suggests problems with all the models. The simulation of water relations, a dominant regulator of NEP in the tropics, is a leading candidate for the source of these problems.
Periapical lesion progression and cytokine expression in an LPS hyporesponsive model
Authors: Fouad A. F. , Acosta A. W.
Published: July 2002

Aim

The purpose of this study was to compare periapical lesion progression and the expression of the bone modulating cytokines IL‐1α, TNF‐α, IL‐4, IL‐6 and IL‐11 in periapical lesions of normal and C3H/HeJ (LPS hyporesponsive) mice.

Methodology

Pulps of both mandibular first molars from C3H/HeJ and BALB/c (normal) mice were exposed and inoculated with normal mouse oral microorganisms for 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks. After euthanasia, specimens were prepared for histological examination. A quantitative evaluation of the lesional area and immunohistochemical stain counts was performed.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences in progression of periapical lesions for both mouse strains with time (two‐factor anova, P > 0.05). The immunohistochemical staining revealed no overall differences between the two strains in levels of expression of the cytokines (P > 0.05). IL‐11 expression did not change from control levels in BALB/c mice, but correlated with the expression of IL‐6 and IL‐4 in C3H/HeJ mice.

Conclusion

Responsiveness to LPS may not be significant in the pathogenesis of periapical lesions and in cytokine expression within the lesions, when the lesions are induced by non‐specific oral flora.
A technique for in vivo measurement of photoreceptor orientation in the chicken retina
Authors: Beresford Judith A , Crewther Sheila G , Crewther David P
Published: July 2002

The aim of the current study was to develop a method for simultaneously assessing central and peripheral photoreceptor alignment in vivo in animal models. The stimulus apparatus consisted of nine light‐emitting diodes (LED) positioned 7.5° apart around an arc. The stimulus was viewed through a pinhole imaged into the entrance pupil of the eye using a telecentric lens system. Photodiodes placed over an array of the VERIS imaging system stimulated the electroretinogram. Data were obtained by positioning the pinhole at 0.25‐mm intervals across the pupil and recording (Volk Optical, Mentor, OH, USA) at each location. Orientation assessed in normal chickens demonstrates that photoreceptors orientate towards a locus near the centre of the pupil and that there is a systematic change in peak location with eccentricity. This technique provides a valuable method for determining photoreceptor orientation properties in vivo and can be applied to animal models of pathology.
Induction of apoptosis in human corneal epithelial cells in vitro
Authors: Kim Jai‐Min , Stapleton Fiona , Willcox Mark D P
Published: July 2002

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate exhausted‐medium‐induced apoptosis in human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells in vitro.

Methods: Confluent HCE cells were maintained in tissue‐culture medium for 5–7 days. The supernatant was harvested and fresh HCE cells were exposed to the exhausted supernatant for 24–48 h over a range of pH conditions. The exhausted medium was assayed for cytokines interleukin 6 (IL‐6), IL‐8, interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) by ELISA. Apoptotic cells were assessed using Hoechst 33342 Propidium iodide and Annexin V‐FITC staining and by the TUNEL assay.

Results: Human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells exposed to exhausted medium demonstrated a high incidence of apoptosis, which increased over time to 87 ± 5% after 48 h. Apoptosis was independent of pH. Cytokine levels were not elevated in the exhausted medium.

Conclusions: This study suggests that exhausted medium can be used as a simple, rapid and potent positive control for apoptosis of HCE cells.
Vancomycin‐resistant enterococci: New threat in renal patients
Authors: Trakarnvanich Thananda , Eiam‐Ong Somchai
Published: July 2002

SUMMARY Vancomycin‐resistant enterococci (VRE) have been increasingly reported in current literature worldwide. The origin of the organisms remains speculative. Overuse of vancomycin and glycopeptide in animal feed for domestic animals may promote VRE proliferation. The contaminated food products may serve as a community reservoir for VRE. VRE could be found in virtually every environmental site as well as in the endogenous flora of the patients. Important risk factors of VRE infection comprise prolonged hospitalization and prior treatment with antibiotics including vancomycin. The modes of VRE transmission are still not clearly established but could be due to both direct: person‐to‐person and indirect transmissions. In renal patients, VRE infections have been mostly reported in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis peritonitis. Some infections are also detected in haemodialysis patients as well as in renal transplantation patients. Selection of the definite antimicrobial treatment of VRE depends on the phenotypes of the resistance. Antimicrobial agents for VRE consist of the more conventional drugs, including chloramphenicol and tetracycline, and the newer ones, such as ramoplanin. Prevention and control of enteroccal infection should be emphasized in all hospitals and these could be successfully carried out by enhanced infection‐control strategies.
THE “OUTREACH” PROGRAM: A CONSULTANCY TO REDUCE CHRONIC DISEASE MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY IN ABORIGINAL PEOPLE
Authors: We Hoy , A Kelly , M. Carmody
Published: July 2002

Background: Aborigines in remote Australia are experiencing an epidemic of chronic disease. The “metabolic syndrome”, type 2 diabetes, hypertension cardiovascular, renal and chronic lung disease contribute to a 20‐25 yr reduction in life expectancy, and vast increases in renal failure. Prevention depends on socioeconomic advancement, education and better primary health care. However, modification of disease in people already afflicted is critical to stabilise families and communities. The Tiwi program has shown how quickly lives can be saved and dialysis avoided by timely intervention.

The Outreach Program. will extend to other communities principles of risk factor identification, early diagnosis and treatment, that are already included in most regional & national guidelines. The program is supported by Rio Tinto and OATSIH, through the Australian Kidney Foundation. Diabetes Australia and the National Heart Foundation are collaborating for a unified approach. Program elements include education, training, algorithms for testing and treatment that emphasise simplicity, on‐site testing, familiarity with a limited number of medicines, ongoing medical support, help with recall & information systems and evaluation of process and outcomes. Participation of communities might be based on need (deaths and ESRD rates), unanimous request, and commitment of staff to participate in training, so that practices will be subsequently maintained in health care plans. Mechanisms of support will vary, based on the specific needs of each community: eg health worker training, local coordinators, facilitation of screening, refinement of medical management, and support of Aboriginal health promotion officers. A similar program, with a somewhat different approach, will operate from Flinders University. The program's reach and impact could be multiplied by establishing regional centres or reinforcing existing regional strategies nationwide, and asking local governments, NGOs and universities to bring additional support.
NUTRITION, BODY SIZE AND KIDNEY DIMENSIONS IN ABORIGINAL CHILDREN
Authors: G Singh , A White , J Spencer , Z Wang , W. Hoy
Published: July 2002

Background

Standards for normal kidney dimensions by age and sex are available and usually relate to age or body height. The relationship of kidney dimensions with age or body size however are less clear if the child is stunted or wasted of had poor nutrition in early life when renal growth is maximal. Adverse early life nutrition has been linked to risk of renal as well as cardiovascular disease in adult life. We sought to study the kidney growth in children from an Aboriginal community where undernutrition in early life as well as renal disease in adult life are extremely common.

Methods:

We measured kidney length, width and depth using a standardized ultrasound method in 298 Aboriginal children (157 male and 141 female) aged 5‐18 years living in a remote community in Northern Australia. Anthropomorphic measurements were also made. Kidney volumes were calculated from measurements of length(L) width(W) and depth(D) using the ellipsoid formula KV = L x D x W X 0.523. We compared kidney lengths and volumes with published standards.

Results:

Proportions of children below the 10th %ile of NCHS growth standards are 35% weight for age, 21% height for age and 14% weight for height. All children studied had kidney lengths for age less than the 50th centile of Currarino’s (1984) standards and 80.1% were below the 50th centile reported by Rosenbaum (1983). In contrast, kidney length for body height was similar to that reported by Dinkel (1985) and Christophe (1986) as was kidney volume for body weight to Dinkels’ study (1985).

Conclusion:

Kidney dimensions in this high risk population are small for age but comensurate with body size. Expected kidney growth for children who are stunted or wasted should be compared to standards for height rather than age. Small volume kidneys for age may predispose to increased risk of renal disease later if other insults such as infection, diabetes and obesity occur.
COMPARISON OF INDIGENOUS AND NON‐INDIGENOUS PERITONEAL DIALYSIS COMPLICATIONS AND OUTCOME IN THE TOP END
Authors: L. Zentner , PD. Lawton , A. Cass , S. McDonald , P. Snelling
Published: July 2002

Aim To assess outcomes of Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) in Indigenous (IP) and Non‐Indigenous (Non‐IP) patients the Top End.

Method Prospective analysis using POET™ database of all patients between 1.1.1993 and 30.11.1999.

Results Results for technique survival and infectious complications are shown in tables 1 and 2.
IS RESISTANT HYPERTENSION TRULY RESISTANT?
Authors: Brown Mark A , Buddle Megan L , Martin. Allison
Published: July 2002

Objectives (1) to compare the magnitude of the white‐coat effect in patients with mild and resistant hypertension and (2) to determine the prevalence of controlled BP in patients with ‘resistant’ hypertension.

Methods Referring doctors' BP was compared with awake and 24 hour ambulatory BP monitor (ABPM) BP in 922 hypertensive patients referred for ABPM by their general practitioners (42%) or specialists (58%). 432 were taking no antihypertensives at the time of their ABPM study (Group 0), 336 were taking 1‐2 antihypertensive drugs (Group 1) and 154 were taking ≥ 3 antihypertensive drugs (Group 2 ‐ resistant hypertension). Controlled BP was defined as awake ABPM BP < 135/85mmHg.

Results Patients with resistant hypertension were significantly older (60 ± 13 yrs) than group 0 (44 ± 15 yrs) and group 1 (55 ± 14 yrs) patients (p < 0.001) but were of similar weight, height and upper arm circumference. The difference between referral BP and awake ABPM BP, the white‐coat effect (WCE), increased significantly across the groups (15/9 vs 26/14 vs 29/15 mmHg, p < 0.005). 34% of group 0 patients had normal ABPM BP, ie. white‐coat hypertension, while 34% of group 1 and 26% of group 2 patients had controlled BP by ABPM criteria.

Conclusion Approximately 1 in 3 of this selected cohort exhibited white coat hypertension and 1 in 4 of those with apparent resistant hypertension had well controlled BP when assessed by 24 hour ABPM. ABPM appears an appropriate initial step in the investigation of both mild hypertension and apparent drug resistant hypertension, thereby reducing unnecessary drug treatment and investigations for secondary causes of hypertension in these patients.
Subordinal artiodactyl relationships in the light of phylogenetic analysis of 12 mitochondrial protein‐coding genes
Authors: Ursing Björn M. , Slack Kerryn E. , Arnason Ulfur
Published: July 2002

Ursing, B. M., Slack, K. E. & Arnason, U. (2000) Subordinal artiodactyl relationships in the light of phylogenetic analysis of 12 mitochondrial protein‐coding genes. —Zoologica Scripta, 29, 83–88.

Extant artiodactyls (even‐toed hoofed mammals) are traditionally divided into three main lineages: Suiformes (pigs, peccaries and hippopotamuses), Tylopoda (camels and llamas) and Ruminantia (bovids, deer, tragulids and giraffes). Recent molecular studies have not supported a close relationship between pigs and hippopotamuses, however, instead grouping hippopotamuses with Cetacea (whales, dolphins and porpoises). In this study we have sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of a tylopod — the alpaca (Lama pacos), the only artiodactyl suborder not previously represented by a complete mitochondrial sequence. This sequence was included in phylogenetic analyses together with the complete mitochondrial protein‐coding sequences of other artiodactyls plus two cetaceans. Despite the length of the data set, the relationship between Suina (Suiformes sine Hippopotamidae), Tylopoda and Ruminantia/Hippopotamidae/Cetacea could not be fully resolved, however, a basal position of the alpaca (Tylopoda) relative to the other artiodactyls/cetaceans was unsupported.
The impact of a modified ileal neobladder on the lifestyle and voiding patterns in Asian patients
Authors: Lee  , LI  , Cheng  , Foo
Published: July 2002

Objective

 To evaluate the impact of the modified ileal neobladder reconstruction on lifestyle, voiding habits and functional outcome in Asian patients.

Patients and methods

 Twenty‐seven Asian patients (25 men and two women, mean age 59 years, range 41–76) underwent modified ileal neobladder reconstruction after radical cystectomy for carcinoma of the bladder. The mean (range) follow‐up was 21 (3–75) months. All patients were evaluated retrospectively using case notes, reviews, interviews and voiding charts; 18 patients underwent urodynamic studies.

Result

 Twenty‐five patients (93%) achieved diurnal and 23 (85%) nocturnal continence within 6 months. Of the 19 patients who were in employment before surgery, 15 continued to be economically active afterward; 26 patients (96%) reported no change in their daily living activities. Of 16 men who reported being potent pre‐operatively only four retained some residual erectile function. Twenty‐three patients were interviewed about their voiding habits and satisfaction with the outcome of surgery. Fourteen patients had no sensation of reservoir fullness and of the 21 men, 13 had to squat or sit to void effectively. The mean (range) voiding frequency was 5 (4–8) during the day and 2 (0–4) during sleep. Twenty‐two patients were satisfied with the overall outcome.

Conclusions

 The modified ileal bladder provides a high urinary continence rate with minimal changes in daily living activities and occupational status. The functional outcome was very satisfactory and accepted well, despite some changes in reservoir sensation, voiding posture and erectile function. The method is a viable option for reconstruction after cystectomy in Asian patients.
Interstitial radiofrequency therapy of the prostate in the management of acute urinary retention
Authors: Makar  , Thomas  , Fletcher  , Harrison
Published: July 2002

Objective

 To evaluate in a prospective study the efficacy of interstitial radiofrequency therapy (IRFT) of the prostate in relieving acute urinary retention in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Patients and methods

 Twenty‐seven patients presenting in acute urinary retention who failed at least one trial of voiding one week after presentation were treated with IRFT of the prostate. During the 6‐month follow‐up, the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), urinary flow rate, post‐void residual volume (PVR) and serum creatinine were determined and changes in erectile and ejaculatory functions recorded. The treatment was considered successful if the patient resumed normal voiding, without compromising renal function and without troublesome lower urinary tract symptoms necessitating further treatment.

Results

 Of the 26 evaluable patients, 77% resumed normal voiding. At 6 months after treatment, the mean (sd) IPSS had decreased from 15.0 (8.3) to 8 (5.4), the PVR from 950 (203) to 88 (60) mL and the maximum flow rate was 10.5 (4.36) mL/s.

Conclusion

 IRFT of the prostate is a safe and effective treatment, at least in the short‐term, for relieving acute urinary retention in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. The longer term follow‐up is continuing.
The reliability of cysto‐urethrographic signs in the diagnosis of detrusor instability in children
Authors: Batista  , Caffaratti  , AraÑÓ  , Regalado  , Garat
Published: July 2002

Objective

 To assess whether the signs associated with detrusor instability (DI), as assessed by video‐urodynamic studies, can be evaluated by conventional voiding cysto‐urethrography (VCUG).

Patients and methods

 Fifty‐nine children who underwent cystometry and VCUG were reviewed and divided into two groups; group 1 comprised 51 neurologically normal children who had DI (47 girls and four boys, mean age 7.9 years, range 4–14), with no malformations or previous surgery. Most had mixed symptoms, including urinary tract infections (44) and nocturnal enuresis with daytime symptoms (20); group 2 (control) comprised eight children (seven girls, mean age 9.7 years, range 6–15) with a stable bladder and the same clinical presentation. The interval between VCUG and cystometry ranged from 1 day to 5 months (mean 47 days) and was similar in both groups. Signs considered suspicious of DI were sought in the findings of VCUG.

Results

 In group 1, VCUG was normal or showed no specific signs (only vesico‐ureteric reflux or vaginal voiding) in 25 (49%) of patients, whereas 26 (51%) had some signs suspicious of DI. Suspicious signs were urethral ballooning (in 11), bladder trabeculation or a constricting ring (eight), a ‘spinning‐top’ urethra (three), urethral notching (two) and Mercier’s bar (one). In group 2, five patients had no abnormal findings on VCUG and three had suspicious signs. The positive predictive value of VCUG was high (0.89) but the diagnostic yield of suspicious signs was low, because the sensitivity (0.5), specificity (0.62) and overall accuracy (0.52) were low.

Conclusion

 Radiological signs suspicious of DI cannot be regarded as such in conventional VCUG, as although they were detected in half the patients with DI, they also occurred in three of eight children with a stable bladder.
A low‐pressure rectosigmoid pouch created by side‐to‐side anastomosis with a stapling technique and sigmoid colon intussusception as an antireflux procedure
Authors: Denewer
Published: July 2002

Objective

 To assess a new procedure of urinary diversion after cystectomy for bladder cancer.

Patients and methods

 Thirty‐two patients (14 women and 18 men, mean age 54 years, range 35–70) treated by radical cystectomy for bladder cancer underwent urinary diversion using a new technique. After mobilization of the sigmoid colon, the splenic flexure and the upper rectum, two adjacent colotomies were made to complete a stapled side‐to‐side anastomosis, with intussusception and implantation of the ureters between the layers of the intussusceptum. Two ureteric stents (8F) were brought out through the iliac fossa, and a rectal tube introduced through the anus and the intussusception to the proximal colon. The reservoir was assessed by urodynamic studies, using the anorectal perfusion catheter.

Results

 Twenty‐eight patients were continent day and night, with mild soiling in the remaining four at night. Complications included a urinary fistula in three patients and a fecal fistula in one; all were treated conservatively. Metabolic complications occurred in only two patients.

Conclusion

 The pouch created has a low pressure, a high capacity and provides effective continence. Surgery remains adequately radical, by removing the prostate and the membranous urethra. The implanted ureters between the layers of the intussusceptum provided an effective antireflux mechanism and markedly improved kidney function. The intussusception prevents reflux of the pouch contents into the proximal colon and minimizes metabolic complications. The technique needs neither colostomy nor small intestinal manipulations.
Does voided urine cytology have biological significance?
Authors: Tut  , Hildreth  , Kumar  , Mellon
Published: July 2002

Objective

 To (i) define any correlation between the result of voided urine cytology (VUC) at presentation and the biological behaviour of Ta/T1 transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder; and (ii) observe the natural history of Ta/T1 bladder cancer in relation to new prognostic groupings.

Patients and methods

 The study comprised 109 patients with newly diagnosed Ta/T1 TCC of the bladder, all of whom had VUC assessed at presentation. Information on the number of tumours at presentation and the subsequent tumour recurrence rate during clinical follow‐up was compared with the outcome of VUC.

Results

 Of the 109 patients, 67 (61%) had Ta and 42 (39%) had T1 tumours. At presentation, there were 75 (69%) solitary (Ta=50, T1=25) and 34 (31%) multifocal (Ta=17, T1=17) tumours. At presentation, VUC was negative in 71 (65%), suspicious in 22 (20%) and positive for urothelial carcinoma in 16 (15%) patients. During follow‐up, 58% of patients with Ta tumours and 83% of patients with T1 tumours developed recurrences (median follow‐up 43.5 months, P=0.01), although there was no significant difference in the recurrence rate between these groups (P=0.096). In addition, for those patients with Ta tumours that were multifocal at presentation, there was a significantly higher recurrence rate (P=0.003). Although there was no correlation between the result of VUC and the number of tumours at presentation, there was a significantly higher tumour recurrence rate for those patients with suspicious/positive VUC than for those whose VUC was negative (P<0.05).

Conclusion

 This study shows the impact of tumour multifocality at presentation on subsequent tumour recurrence rate. In addition, the VUC result at presentation correlated with tumour recurrence in patients with Ta/T1 TCC of the bladder.
Analysis of the microtopography of the skin by silicone replicas after repeated exposure to actinic radiation at high altitudes
Authors: Mazzarello V , Cametti M , Leone G , Iacovelli P , Ena P , Leigheb G
Published: July 2002

We investigated the superficial microtopography of the normal skin of 11 volunteers (not exposed to sunlight during the last 4 months), before and after sun exposure for 5 days at high altitudes of 2900–4559 m. The experiments were carried out on Mount Rosa in Italy, and cutaneous replicas using silicone resin were taken every day after 7 h of sun exposure. Casts were taken from the forehead, glabella, dorsum nasi, radial side (protected with a cream SPF 9.72) and ulnar side of the back of the hands, the only areas not protected. A total of 422 replicas were metallized with gold‐palladium and observed under Zeiss 940A scanning electron microscope. The images were elaborated and analysed on computer with appropriate software supplying geometrical features of cutaneous surface using parameters proposed by Takahashi (1994). A Student’s test for paired series was used to analyse the differences before and after 1–5 days of exposure giving uniform and significant data compared with controls. Using cutaneous replicas we demonstrated that repeated exposure of skin to sunlight in a short time elicits temporary defence mechanisms with increased obstruction of cutaneous pores, deepening of primary cutaneous furrows and shallowing of part of the secondary furrows; the two latter alterations are the consequence of reactive oedema.