bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Audit of nurse‐led‐training for epipen in a District General Hospital
Authors: Ratnaweera D. , Von Trilsbach J. , Rangasami J. , Green D. A. , Puliyel J. M.
Published: July 2006

Background:  A community‐based study in the London Borough of Hounslow, which included patients in our District General Hospital (DGH) Paediatric Department, found that most families who had been prescribed adrenaline auto‐injectors could not use them properly. This prompted the establishment of a new protocol for doctors and an Allergy Clinic where one nurse was responsible for training all patients.

Aim:  This audit was done to reassess this service 3 years after the changes were made.

Methods:  68 of the 81 (83%) patients followed up in our District General Hospital Nurse led Allergy Clinic agreed to participate. They were compared with the District General Hospital sub‐group of the previous study.

Results:  We found that most patients now reported they were trained to use the devise, had written instructions, were able to demonstrate competence on a dummy and would appropriately call an ambulance. This was significantly better than the previous situation.

Conclusion:  The study shows that training can be improved in a DGH setting with the strategy of protocolised prescribing and a Nurse led Allergy Clinic.
IgE antibodies to betalactams: relationship between the triggering hapten and the specificity of the immune response
Authors: Antúnez C. , Fernández T. , Blanca‐Lopez N. , Torres M. J. , Mayorga C. , Canto G. , Fernández J. , Moya M. C. , Blanca M.
Published: July 2006

Background:  In immunoglobulin (Ig)E‐mediated responses to betalactams (BL) the antibody is directed to the hapten inducing the response. For benzylpenicillin (BP) the determinant is benzylpenicilloyl (BPO) and for amoxicillin (AX), amoxicilloyl (AXO). Because of cross‐reactivity, IgE from some patients reacts to both drugs whereas others have a drug‐selective recognition. After an allergic episode, there is an increase in IgE that decreases over time. We analysed the response of patients allergic to BL after penicillin administration, with emphasis on IgE cross‐reactivity.

Methods:  Subjects who developed an IgE antibody response were studied. Sequential follow‐up samples were obtained at different times during the response. Changes in IgE specificity were analysed by competition immunoassays using different penicillin monomeric conjugates.

Results:  Two patterns of response were existed: one with IgE directed to the culprit penicillin and another with IgE mainly reactive to BPO. In both, a variable cross‐reactivity with the hapten triggering the boosting response was found. This pattern was maintained with no change in specificity over time, even in subjects who experienced one boosting event.

Conclusion:  The IgE response can be specific to the drug inducing the reaction or cross‐reactive to the classical BPO determinant. This pattern is maintained throughout the whole period of the response, even if re‐exposure occurs. The stability of the type of response can be explained by the phenomenon of original antigenic sin: in the presence of antibodies, memory B cells are more easily triggered than naive B cells.
Mechanism for acute oral desensitization to antibiotics
Authors: Woo H.‐Y. , Kim Y.‐S. , Kang N.‐I. , Chung W.‐C. , Song C.‐H. , Choi I.‐W. , Choi I.‐H. , Lee H.‐K.
Published: July 2006

Background:  Despite the widespread use of an acute oral desensitization procedure in patients with allergic reactions to a variety of antibiotics, the precise mechanism of this procedure is poorly understood.

Objective:  To investigate the mechanisms underlying acute oral desensitization to antibiotics.

Methods:  Using a murine model of active systemic anaphylaxis to penicillin V (Pen V), mice previously sensitized to Pen V were desensitized by oral feeding of Pen V. The dose was doubled every 15 min and five feedings were given. The achievement of acute oral desensitization was evaluated by induction of active systemic and active cutaneous anaphylaxis, and by measuring the plasma levels of platelet‐activating factor and histamine. Antigen‐specific serum IgE antibody (Ab) levels were determined by passive cutaneous anaphylaxis.

Results:  Mice fed more than 3 mg of cumulative dose of Pen V were completely protected from fatal systemic anaphylactic reaction and the desensitized state lasted approximately 1 h. Antigen‐specific mast cell desensitization, but not hapten inhibition, consumption of IgE Abs, or depletion of mast cell mediators, occurred during acute oral desensitization.

Conclusions:  Acute oral desensitization to Pen V occurred in the mice, and antigen‐specific mast cell desensitization was associated with the underlying mechanism for oral desensitization.
Human embryo and early fetus research
Authors: Ostrer H , Wilson DI , Hanley NA
Published: July 2006

Studies of human embryos and fetuses have highlighted developmental differences between humans and model organisms. In addition to describing the normal biology of our own species, a justification in itself, studies of early human development have aided identification of candidate disease genes mapped by positional cloning strategies, understanding pathophysiology, where human disorders are not faithfully reproduced by models in other species, and, more recently, potential therapies based on human embryonic stem and embryonic germ cells. In this article, we review these applications. We also discuss when and how to study human embryo and early fetuses and some of the regulations of this research.
Osteogenesis imperfecta: clinical, biochemical and molecular findings
Authors: Venturi G , Tedeschi E , Mottes M , Valli M , Camilot M , Viglio S , Antoniazzi F , Tatò L
Published: July 2006

Mutations in COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes, encoding the α1 and α2 chain of type I collagen, respectively, are responsible for the vast majority of cases of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) (95% of patients with a definite clinical diagnosis). We have investigated 22 OI patients, representing a heterogeneous phenotypic range, at the biochemical and molecular level. A causal mutation in either type I collagen gene was identified in 20 of them: no recurrent mutation was found in unrelated subjects; 15 out of 20 mutations had not been reported previously. In two patients, we could not find any causative mutation in either type I collagen gene, after extensive genomic DNA sequencing. Failure of COL1A1/COL1A2 mutation screening may be due, in a few cases, to further clinical heterogeneity, i.e. additional non‐collagenous disease loci are presumably involved in OI types beyond the traditional Sillence’s classification.
Screening for MECP2 mutations in Spanish patients with an unexplained mental retardation
Authors: Tejada M‐I , Peñagarikano O , Rodriguez‐Revenga L , Martinez‐Bouzas C , García B , Bádenas C , Guitart M , Minguez M , García‐Alegría E , Sanz‐Parra A , Beristain E , Milá M
Published: July 2006

Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X‐linked progressive encephalopathy. Mutations in the MECP2 (methyl‐CpG‐binding protein) gene have been found to cause RTT. In the past few years, the role of MECP2 mutations in patients with mental disorders other than RTT has been studied, finding that mutations in MECP2 also contribute to non‐syndromic entities. More recently, it has been demonstrated that RTT shares clinical features with those of Angelman syndrome, another neurodevelopmental disorder. These observations must be confirmed in a large series, to better understand the criteria needed for justifying a molecular test. Consequently, we have searched for MECP2 mutations in 294 patients (43 Angelman and Prader–Willi like included) with mental retardation (MR) of unknown aetiology. We found six polymorphisms (three novel, three previously reported) in 10 patients, one novel unclassified silent change (p.V222V) in a man, and one causative mutation in a girl with MR. Once this case was clinically reviewed, the girl presented symptoms of atypical RTT. The mutation (p.Y141C) lies within the methyl‐binding domain, and has only been reported once in another atypical RTT. Our results show that the MECP2 mutations account for a low frequency (1/416 chromosomes = 0.24%) among mentally retarded individuals, which imply that it is necessary to perform an exhaustive clinical examination of patients before determining whether analysis of MECP2 is required or not.
Molecular and phenotypic characteristics of patients with phenylketonuria in Serbia and Montenegro
Authors: Stojiljkovic M , Jovanovic J , Djordjevic M , Grkovic S , Cvorkov Drazic M , Petrucev B , Tosic N , Karan Djurasevic T , Stojanov L , Pavlovic S
Published: July 2006

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is the most common inborn error of amino acid metabolism in Caucasians. PKU is caused by mutations in the gene encoding phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) enzyme. Here, we report the spectrum and the frequency of mutations in the PAH gene and discuss genotype–phenotype correlation in 34 unrelated patients with PKU from Serbia and Montenegro. Using both polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism and ‘broad‐range’ denaturing‐gradient gel electrophoresis/DNA sequencing analysis, 19 disease‐causing mutations were identified, corresponding to mutation detection rate of 97%. The most frequent ones were L48S (21%), R408W (18%), P281L (9%), E390G (7%) and R261Q (6%), accounting for 60% of all mutant alleles. The genotype–phenotype correlation was studied in homozygous and functionally hemizygous patients. We found that the most frequent mutation, L48S, was exclusively associated with the classical (severe) PKU phenotype. The mutation E390G gave rise to mild PKU. For the mutation R261Q, patients had been recorded in two phenotype categories. Considering allele frequencies, PKU in Serbia and Montenegro is heterogeneous, reflecting numerous migrations over the Balkan Peninsula.
Neither an intronic CA repeat within the CD48 gene nor the HERV‐K18 polymorphisms are associated with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Ramos‐Lopez E. , Ghebru S. , Van Autreve J. , Aminkeng F. , Herwig J. , Seifried E. , Seidl C. , Van der Auwera B. , Badenhoop K.
Published: July 2006

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune heterogeneous disease that is determined by environmental and genetic factors. A possible retroviral etiology has been inferred from the observation that human endogenous retrovirus (HERV)‐K18 encoding a superantigen (SAg) has a polymorphism associated with this disease. Type 1 diabetes families from Germany and Belgium were genotyped for the novel HERV‐8914 (303 families) and for the known HERV‐8594 (284 families) polymorphisms within the SAg‐coding region on the HERV‐K18. Case–control analysis was performed for the HERV‐8914 polymorphism (506 patients) and for the HERV‐8594 polymorphism (370 patients) and compared with 350 German controls. Haplotypes were constructed. Additionally, a microsatellite within the CD48 gene was analyzed in German type 1 diabetes families (n = 125) as well as in patients (n = 375) and in healthy controls (n = 350). No association was found for HERV‐K18 polymorphisms or the CA repeat within the CD48 gene with type 1 diabetes mellitus either in families or by comparing patients and controls. In conclusion, we cannot confirm a role of HERV‐K18 polymorphisms –HERV‐8914 and HERV‐8594– or of the CD48 CA repeat for type 1 diabetes susceptibility.
Distinct roles for interleukin‐12p40 and tumour necrosis factor in resistance to oral candidiasis defined by gene‐targeting
Authors: Farah C. S. , Hu Y. , Riminton S. , Ashman R. B.
Published: July 2006

Cell‐mediated immunity is important for anti‐Candida host defence in mucosal tissues. In this study we used cytokine‐specific gene knockout mice to investigate the requirement for T helper type 1 (Th1) and Th2 cytokines in recovery from oral candidiasis. Knockout mice used in this study included interleukin‐4 (IL‐4), IL‐10, IL‐12p40, interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), and tumour necrosis factor (TNF). The mice were challenged either orally or systemically with Candida albicans yeasts, and levels of colonization were determined. IL‐12p40 knockout mice developed chronic oropharyngeal candidiasis, but were not more susceptible to systemic challenge. On the other hand, TNF knockout mice displayed increased susceptibility to both oral and systemic challenge, but only in the acute stages of infection. TNF apparently has a protective effect in the acute stages of both oral and systemic candidiasis, whereas IL‐12p40 is essential for recovery from oral but not systemic candidiasis. The role of IL‐12p40, and its relation to T‐cell‐mediated responses remain to be determined.
Interleukin‐1 β, interleukin‐12 and interleukin‐18 levels in gingival fluid and serum of patients with gingivitis and periodontitis
Authors: Orozco A. , Gemmell E. , Bickel M. , Seymour G. J.
Published: July 2006

Introduction:  Cytokines are of major importance in periodontal disease progression. Interleukin‐12 (IL‐12) stimulates interferon‐γ production by T helper type 1 (Th1) cells while IL‐18 induces Th1 responses when present with IL‐12 but Th2 responses in the absence of IL‐12. IL‐1β has been correlated with periodontal disease destruction. This study determined the local concentrations of these cytokines in sites of gingivitis and periodontitis.

Methods:  Gingival crevicular fluid was collected from two sites in each of 10 gingivitis patients and from two gingivitis sites and two periodontitis sites from each of 10 periodontitis patients. Serum samples were also collected. IL‐1β, biologically active IL‐12 p70, the IL‐12 p40 subunit and IL‐18 concentrations were determined by enzyme‐linked immunoabsorbent assay.

Results:  IL‐1β and IL‐18 concentrations were higher in the gingival crevicular fluid from periodontitis patients than in that from gingivitis patients; IL‐18 concentrations were higher than those of IL‐1β. Very little IL‐12, either p40 or p70, was detected in the gingival crevicular fluid samples. In the serum, very low levels of cytokines were found. The level of serum IL‐12 p40, however, was higher than in the fluid from periodontitis sites of periodontitis patients.

Conclusion:  The local production of IL‐1β and IL‐18 in the gingival crevicular fluid increased with increasing inflammation and IL‐18 was the predominant cytokine at both gingivitis and periodontitis sites. Very little IL‐12 was detected with levels decreasing with increasing inflammation. These results suggest that there is an association between severity of periodontal disease and levels of IL‐1, IL‐12 and IL‐18.
Value of therapeutic drug monitoring of MMF therapy in pediatric transplantation*
Authors: Filler G.
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is desirable whenever the desired drug effect cannot be predicted from a given dose, or when it is necessary to find a balance between the efficacy and toxicity of the drug. Children and adolescents particularly benefit from TDM, because dosing requirements are often not studied in the same detail as in adults. Also, drug‐drug interactions are frequent. The gold standard for assessment of drug exposure is the area‐under‐the‐curve (AUC) for a full pharmacokinetic profile. TDM for mycophenolic acid (MPA) is less well established. Monitoring of trough levels does not suffice because of enterohepatic recirculation of MPA after formation of its main metabolite, a glucoronide termed MPA‐G. However, abbreviated sampling schemes specific to mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) correlate well with the AUC for MPA. Cyclosporine interacts with MPA by inhibiting the multidrug resistance‐associated protein 2 (MRP2). Higher MPA concentrations result in a decreased two h concentration of cyclosporine, while higher cyclosporine exposure results in a lower MPA exposure. There are no drug interactions between tacrolimus and MPA, and lower doses of MMF are required in combination with tacrolimus. Steroids may induce the clearance of MPA, which could account in part for the increasing MPA exposure following transplantation. TDM has allowed for dosing recommendations of MMF in children, which could lead to improved efficacy and minimization of toxicities. It is important that these provisional target levels are validated in prospective studies. The above points clearly indicate that there is a role for TDM of MPA in pediatric transplant recipients.
Modulation of PsbS and flexible vs sustained energy dissipation by light environment in different species
Authors: Demmig‐Adams Barbara , Ebbert Volker , Mellman David L. , Mueh Kristine E. , Schaffer Lisa , Funk Christiane , Zarter C. Ryan , Adamska Iwona , Jansson Stefan , Adams William W.
Published: July 2006

Contrasting acclimation strategies of photosynthesis and photoprotection were identified for annual mesophytes (spinach, pumpkin, and Arabidopsis) vs the tropical evergreen Monstera deliciosa. The annual species utilized full sunlight for photosynthesis to a much greater extent than the evergreen species. Conversely, the evergreen species exhibited a greater capacity for photoprotective thermal energy dissipation as well as a greater expression of the PsbS protein in full sun than the annual species. In all species, the majority of thermal energy dissipation [assessed as non‐photochemical fluorescence quenching (NPQ)] was the flexible, ΔpH‐dependent form of NPQ over the entire range of growth light environments. However, in response to a transfer of shade‐grown plants to high light, the evergreen species exhibited a high level of sustained thermal dissipation (qI), but the annual species did not. This sustained energy dissipation in the evergreen species was not ΔpH‐dependent nor did the low level of PsbS in shade leaves increase upon transfer to high light for several days. Sustained ΔpH‐independent NPQ was correlated (a) initially, with sustained D1 protein phosphorylation and xanthophyll cycle arrest and (b) subsequently, with an accumulation over several days of PsbS‐related one‐helix proteins and newly synthesized zeaxanthin and lutein.
Improved development of microspore‐derived embryo cultures of Brassica napus cv Topaz following changes in glutathione metabolism
Authors: Belmonte Mark F. , Ambrose Stephen J. , Ross Andrew R. S. , Abrams Suzanne R. , Stasolla Claudio
Published: July 2006

Glutathione has been shown to play an important role during embryo development in both plant and animal systems. The effects of altered glutathione metabolism during microspore‐derived embryos (MDEs) of Brassica napus were investigated following exogenous application of reduced glutathione (GSH), its oxidized form (GSSG) and buthionine sulfoximine (BSO), an inhibitor of glutathione de novo synthesis. Applications of BSO which lowered the cellular glutathione redox status, i.e. GSH/(GSH + GSSG), enhanced significantly the quality of the embryos and their ability to convert into viable plants. Histological analyses revealed that inclusions of BSO in the culture medium altered the pattern of storage product accumulation in the embryos and improved the architecture of the shoot apical meristems (SAMs). Compared with their control counterparts which showed severe signs of SAM deterioration, such as the formation of intercellular spaces and differentiation of the meristematic cells, BSO‐treated embryos had well‐organized SAMs. The improved SAM organization observed in the presence of BSO also correlated with the proper localization pattern of WUSCHEL, a SAM molecular marker gene which was miss‐expressed in control embryos. The beneficial effects of BSO on embryo development and conversion were ascribed to the increasing levels of ABA. The concentration of this growth regulator in BSO‐treated embryos was always higher than that of control embryos during the second half of the maturation period. Furthermore, many structural alterations induced by BSO could be reproduced in embryos cultured in the presence of ABA. Taken together, these results suggest that a lowering of the glutathione redox status during embryo development may represent a metabolic switch needed for increasing the endogenous levels of ABA, which is required for successful completion of the developmental program.
Effect of brassinolide, alone and in concert with abscisic acid, on control of stomatal aperture and potassium currents of Vicia faba guard cell protoplasts
Authors: Haubrick Laura Lillian , Torsethaugen Gro , Assmann Sarah M.
Published: July 2006

The essential role of brassinosteroids (BRs) in normal plant growth, development and physiology has been established by the analysis of biosynthesis and signal transduction mutants. Some of the BR‐related mutants also display altered sensitivity to the phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) suggesting that BRs normally counteract the effects of ABA on root growth, seed germination, and possibly stomatal movement. In this study, the effect of a specific BR, brassinolide (BL), on guard cell function of Vicia faba was examined alone and in conjunction with ABA. Unlike other described plant responses, BL did not oppose the effect of ABA in regulation of stomatal movement. On the contrary, BL modulated stomatal aperture by promoting stomatal closure and inhibiting stomatal opening, functions of this hormone that were previously undescribed. This study also demonstrated a role for plant steroidal hormones in ion channel regulation: BL inhibited inwardly rectifying K+ currents of V. faba guard cell protoplasts in a manner similar to ABA. In both stomatal movement assays and whole‐cell patch clamp experiments, the effects of BL and ABA applied together were not additive, suggesting that these two hormones may function in interacting pathways to regulate stomatal apertures and guard cell physiology.
Identification of late O3‐responsive genes in Arabidopsis thaliana by cDNA microarray analysis
Authors: D'Haese David , Horemans Nele , De Coen Wim , Guisez Yves
Published: July 2006

To better understand the response of a plant to O3 stress, an integrated microarray analysis was performed on Arabidopsis plants exposed during 2 days to purified air or 150 nl l−1 O3, 8 h day−1. Agilent Arabidopsis 2 Oligo Microarrays were used of which the reliability was confirmed by quantitative real‐time PCR of nine randomly selected genes. We confirmed the O3 responsiveness of heat shock proteins (HSPs), glutathione‐S‐tranferases and genes involved in cell wall stiffening and microbial defence. Whereas, a previous study revealed that during an early stage of the O3 stress response, gene expression was strongly dependent on jasmonic acid and ethylene, we report that at a later stage (48 h) synthesis of jasmonic acid and ethylene was downregulated. In addition, we observed the simultaneous induction of salicylic acid synthesis and genes involved in programmed cell death and senescence. Also typically, the later stage of the response to O3 appeared to be the induction of the complete pathway leading to the biosynthesis of anthocyanin diglucosides and the induction of thioredoxin‐based redox control. Surprisingly absent in the list of induced genes were genes involved in ASC‐dependent antioxidation, few of which were found to be induced after 12 h of O3 exposure in another study. We discuss these and other particular results of the microarray analysis and provide a map depicting significantly affected genes and their pathways highlighting their interrelationships and subcellular localization.
Carrot arabinogalactan proteins are interlinked with pectins
Authors: Immerzeel Peter , Eppink Mieke M. , De Vries Sacco C. , Schols Henk A. , Voragen Alphons G. J.
Published: July 2006

Cell wall extracts from a carrot cell culture and tap roots were obtained by sequential extraction with water, EDTA buffer solution and cold sodium hydroxide solution. Arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) were isolated from the extracts and from the medium of the cell culture and analysed for their molecular weight distribution and carbohydrate composition. Copper ions were used to separate the Yariv positive fractions into AGP fractions with a high and a low level of galacturonic acid (GalA). The GalA rich AGP fractions were incubated with pectin methylesterase and polygalacturonase. This enzyme incubation released GalA fragments from the AGP fractions as monitored by HPAEC and MALDI‐TOF MS. At least part of carrot AGPs from the medium and cell walls may be covalently linked to pectin containing a homogalacturonan structural element.
Modifications of plant cell activities by polypeptides secreted by Eutypa lata, a vineyard fungal pathogen
Authors: Octave Stéphane , Amborabé Bénigne‐Ernest , Fleurat‐Lessard Pierrette , Bergès Thierry , Roblin Gabriel
Published: July 2006

Eutypa dieback is a devastating disease induced in vineyards by the fungal pathogen Eutypa lata. The fungus colonizes the xylem tissues of trunk and cordons but is never found in the annual canes. Nevertheless, dwarfed shoots and leaf necrosis observed in diseased plants indicate that a necrotic signal can spread at a distance from the infected area. Eutypine, a small cyclic molecule, and related compounds have been postulated as the toxins inducing these symptoms. In this work, we evidence that E. lata secreted other metabolites of polypeptidic nature which induced toxic effects on canes and leaves of vines, and on leaves of other plant materials. The polypeptide fraction (PF) isolated from culture medium of mycelium induced transitory H+ fluxes and membrane depolarization of plant cells. Complementary assays with plasma membrane vesicles (PMV) showed that H+‐ATPase is a primary site of action as indicated by inhibition of the enzyme activity and increase of H+ conductance of plasma membrane. The toxic effect was also obvious on respiration and photosynthesis. All these impairments led to a hindering in cell energetics and, as a consequence, to an inhibition of uptake of assimilates. Treatment with PF also triggered biological events, characteristics of elicitation as suggested by the early responses on cell membrane described above, the activation of NADPH oxidase and the activation of Phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL).
Involvement of G‐proteins in chitosan‐induced Anthraquinone synthesis in Rubia tinctorum
Authors: Vasconsuelo Andrea , Picotto Gabriela , Giuletti Ana M. , Boland Ricardo
Published: July 2006

We have previously shown that chitosan stimulates anthraquinone synthesis in Rubia tinctorum L. cells through activation of the PLC\PKC, PI3K, MAPK and Ca2+ messenger systems. In view of this evidence, we have now investigated whether guanine nucleotide‐binding G‐proteins are part of the signal transduction mechanism which mediates the elicitor action. The G‐protein agonists mastoparan, AlF4– and GTPyS increased anthraquinone levels to the same extent as chitosan. No additive effects were observed when cultured R. tinctorum cells were treated with agonist and the elicitor together. In agreement with these observations, the G‐protein antagonists suramin and GDPβS abolished the increase in anthraquinone synthesis induced by chitosan. Furthermore, elicitation was not affected in the presence of pertussis toxin. Consistent with this result, when cell cultures were preincubated with a monoclonal anti‐Gαq\11 antibody, the chitosan‐dependent increase in anthraquinone levels was fully inhibited. Moreover, the presence of an immunoreactive protein of the expected size for Gαq\11 (42 kDa) was observed in R. tinctorum microsomal membranes by Western blot analysis using the same antibody. These results indicate that chitosan stimulates anthraquinone synthesis in R. tinctorum cells through a heterotrimeric G‐protein, most likely belonging to the Gαq family.
Ecological relevance of minimum seasonal water potentials
Authors: Bhaskar R. , Ackerly D.D.
Published: July 2006

The minimum seasonal water potential a plant experiences, ψmin, provides an important measure of plant water status, as it reflects the maximum water deficit that leaves and xylem must tolerate to maintain physiological activity. ψmin also acts as a selective force on xylem structure which, in turn, generates correlations between ψmin and numerous hydraulic traits. This review focuses on the ecological relevance of ψmin as a reflection of overall plant hydraulic strategy. The focus is on plant functional strategies with respect to soil drought, but we conclude with preliminary findings on the role of atmospheric drought.
Effects of oxidative stress on chlorophyll biosynthesis in cucumber (Cucumis sativus) cotyledons
Authors: Aarti P.D. , Tanaka Ryouichi , Tanaka Ayumi
Published: July 2006

We conducted a series of experiments to assess the effects of oxidative stress on chlorophyll biosynthesis in the vascular plant Cucumis sativus (cucumber). Specifically, cucumber cotyledons were treated with 100 μM methyl viologen (MV) and subsequently exposed to dark (0 μE m−2 s−1), low light (40–45 μE m−2 s−1), or high light (1500–1600 μE m−2 s−1). Following treatment, extracts of these samples were subjected to high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to quantitate the accumulation of chlorophyll biosynthetic pathway intermediates. The results of these analyses revealed significant accumulation of Mg‐protoporphyrin IX monomethyl ester (Mg‐proto IX ME) in green (14‐h illuminated) as well as in etiolated cotyledons with MV treatment. These data suggest that MV‐induced oxidative stress may have inhibited Mg‐proto IX ME cyclase activity. Upon exposure to high light, in the presence or absence of MV, both green and etiolated cotyledons predominantly accumulated protoporphyrin IX (Proto IX). These elevated levels of Proto IX might be attributable to attenuated activity of any or all of the following enzymes: Mg‐chelatase, Fe‐chelatase and protoporphyrinogen IX oxidase. We also observed that MV‐induced oxidative stress impacts on chlorophyll biosynthesis to a greater extent than on photosystem II. These results demonstrate that oxidative stress impedes key steps in chlorophyll biosynthesis by either directly or indirectly inhibiting the activity of these enzymes.
Metabolic changes during natural ageing in sunflower (Helianthus annuus) leaves: expression and activity of glutamine synthetase isoforms are regulated differently during senescence
Authors: Cabello Purificación , Agüera Eloísa , De La Haba Purificación
Published: July 2006

Analysis of the changes in the carbon and nitrogen metabolite, photosynthetic pigment, soluble protein and total RNA contents, and in the transpiration and carbon dioxide fixation rates during sunflower leaf development, indicated that senescence initiates and progressively advances in primary leaves aged between 28 and 42 days. Leaf senescence was associated with significant metabolic changes. A loss of pigments and photosynthetic activity was observed, and chlorophylls were more susceptible to degradation than carotenoids during senescence. Soluble protein and total RNA levels also decreased. Concentrations of soluble sugars increased during leaf ageing, whereas a decrease in the starch content was found. The highest ammonia concentrations were observed in young leaves aged 16 days and senescent leaves aged 42 days. The content of glutamate, the major amino acid in sunflower leaves, and the (Glu + Asp)/(Gln + Asn) ratio progressively decreased during ageing, suggesting that nitrogen‐rich amino acids are stored to be exported from senescent leaves. Total glutamine synthetase (GS) activity declined during leaf senescence, due to a marked decrease in both transcripts and enzyme activity of the chloroplastic isoform GS2. In contrast, cytosolic GS1 activity increased with leaf age. Thus, the GS2/GS1 ratio may be used as a marker of senescence in sunflower leaves. The senescence process was also associated with an increase in the oxidative stress, as revealed by hydrogen peroxide accumulation, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activities. Oxidative stress caused a strong inhibition of GS2 activity, but the GS1 isoform was much more resistant to oxidative damage.
A model for simulating transpiration of Eucalyptus salmonophloia trees
Authors: Langensiepen Matthias , Burgess Stephen , Lambers Hans , Mitchell Patrick , Veneklaas Erik
Published: July 2006

Understanding the water relations of Eucalyptus trees plays an important role in finding solutions to dryland salinity in southern Australia. A model for studying structure–function relationships in isolated tree crowns (radiation absorption, transpiration and photosynthesis, RATP) was parameterized to permit the seasonal transpiration course of a Eucalyptus salmonophloia tree to be quantified. Model responses to different parameterizations were tested in a sensitivity analysis. Predictive quality was mostly affected by the accuracy of information about leaf area density and stomatal responses to air vapor pressure deficit, and to a lesser extend by foliage dispersion. Assuming simple, non‐synergistic influences of changes in photosynthetic active radiation and air vapor pressure deficit on stomatal transpiration control, the model was able to simulate the daily water uptake of E. salmonophloia trees with reasonable predictive quality during an entire season. In order to more precisely simulate short‐term (i.e. diurnal) water use dynamics, the model must be extended to account for hydraulic and chemical controls of stomatal regulation of crown energy balance.
An index of osmotic adjustment that allows comparison of its magnitude across species and experiments
Authors: Turner David W.
Published: July 2006

It is difficult to compare the magnitude of osmotic adjustment (OA) between species and experiments. Currently, comparisons are made by determining the magnitude of OA (MPa) at predetermined values of leaf water content, e.g. a relative water content (RWC) of 70%. The relationship between the natural logarithms of leaf water content (RWC, dependent variable) and leaf osmotic potential (π, independent variable) has a slope of 1.0 for the concentration effect. For tissues that adjust osmotically, the slope will be less than 1.0 and the osmotic index will be 1.0 – slope. The index applies to all the patterns of ln(RWC) vs ln(π) observed in experiments and is independent of the amount of drying achieved. An index of 1.0 is full capacity for OA, and a value of 0.0 is no OA. Three examples of the application of the index are given for data published on sorghum, wheat and grape vines.
Proteomic analysis of the etioplast inner membranes of wheat (Triticum aestivum) by two‐dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry
Authors: Blomqvist Lisa A. , Ryberg Margareta , Sundqvist Christer
Published: July 2006

The proteome of the etioplast inner membranes (EPIM) of dark‐grown wheat leaves (Triticum aestivum L.) was mapped as an essential part of studies on plastid differentiation. Proteins were separated by two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis and analysed with mass spectrometry (MS). Over 200 protein spots were resolved and visualized by Coomassie blue staining. More than 100 spots were submitted for subsequent mass spectrometry analyses by matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight (MALDI‐ToF) MS, electrospray tandem MS (ESI‐MS/MS) or liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). There were 46 identified spots, from which at least 21 different proteins were identified. Among these were FtsH proteases and the peptidyl‐prolyl cis–trans isomerase TLP40, as well as chloroplast coupling factor subunits and extrinsic subunits of photosystem II (PSII). Of special interest is the NADPH:protochlorophyllide oxidoreductase (POR), which is the predominant protein of prolamellar bodies, where it accumulates in a highly stable ternary complex with protochlorophyllide and NADPH. This complex is known to play an important role in the formation and dispersal of prolamellar bodies. Five different isoforms of POR, with different pI values, were identified. We discuss the possibility of these isoforms being differently phosphorylated as part of the regulation of POR–pigment complexes. The proteome mapping of EPIM is a crucial step in the understanding of the light‐dependent transition of etioplasts to chloroplasts, and provides a basis for functional studies on factors influencing the greening process.
High thoracic epidural blockade increases myocardial oxygen availability in coronary surgery patients
Authors: Lagunilla J. , García‐Bengochea J. B. , Fernández Á. L. , Alvarez J. , Rubio J. , Rodríguez J. , Veiras S.
Published: July 2006

Background:  High thoracic epidural techniques are increasingly being used in patients scheduled for cardiothoracic surgery, including coronary artery bypass grafting. In the present study, we evaluated the acute effects of the epidural blockade on myocardial oxygen availability by means of tissue oxygen pressure monitoring in patients submitted for surgical revascularization.

Methods:  Fifty adult patients were included in a prospective, randomized, double‐blind study. After placement of an epidural catheter in thoracic space T1–T2, and under general anesthesia, 5–10 ml of either normal saline or 0.3% ropivacaine was injected through the epidural catheter. Hemodynamic parameters and the intramyocardial oxygen partial pressure were recorded before and 20 min after the epidural injection.

Results:  There were no demographic or hemodynamic differences between the groups before intervention. A significant increase in intramyocardial partial oxygen pressure was observed in the ropivacaine group (14.6 mmHg vs. 25.1 mmHg, P < 0.0005).

Conclusion:  High thoracic epidural blockade with 5–10 ml of 0.3% ropivacaine increases myocardial oxygen availability in coronary diseased patients prior to surgical revascularization without deleterious hemodynamic disturbances.
Prevalence and risk factors of Barrett’s esophagus in Korea
Authors: Kim Jeong Hwan , Rhee Poong‐Lyul , Lee Jun Haeng , Lee Hyuk , Choi Yong Sung , Son Hee Jung , Kim Jae J , Rhee Jong Chul
Published: July 2006

Background and Aim:  Barrett’s esophagus (BE) is diagnosed when specialized intestinal metaplasia (SIM) is detected histologically in endoscopically suspected columnar‐lined esophagus (CLE). It is a premalignant condition and plays a pivotal role in the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma. It has traditionally been believed to affect Asians less frequently. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of BE and possible associated risk factors in Korea.

Methods:  A retrospective analysis of 70 103 patients who had undergone their first upper endoscopies was performed using computerized medical records. Of these, 696 (1%) patients had suspected CLE. After screening by telephone, 480 were enrolled. The clinical and endoscopic characteristics of histologically identifiable BE and endoscopically suspected CLE not confirmed by biopsy (suspected CLE without SIM) were investigated.

Results:  Barrett’s esophagus was present in 151 patients (0.22%) with a mean age of 53.8 ± 10.9 years. BE was more commonly found in men. BE was associated with a set of features distinct from suspected CLE without SIM; older age, greater predominance of male sex, more frequent smoking history, and more frequent acid regurgitation symptom.

Conclusions:  Barrett’s esophagus remains less common in Korea than in Western countries. Old age, male sex, smoking, and acid regurgitation symptom were significant risk factors.
Outcome of transurethral prostatectomy for the palliative management of lower urinary tract symptoms in men with prostate cancer
Authors: GNANAPRAGASAM VINCENT J , KUMAR VINOD , LANGTON DAVID , PICKARD ROBERT S , LEUNG HING Y
Published: July 2006

Objective:  To investigate the efficacy of palliative transurethral prostatectomy (TURP) for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men with prostate cancer.

Patients and method:  The surgical outcome of TURP performed in 46 men with prostate cancer was studied. A poor outcome was defined as the development of urinary incontinence, repeat surgery and placement of a long‐term catheter (LTC) within 1 year of surgery. A cohort of 47 men who underwent TURP for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) was used as a control population.

Results:  Initial catheter removal failed in a larger number of cancer patients compared to men with BPH (43% and 10%, respectively, P = 0.0001). Using objective endpoints, 37% (17/46) of cancer patients were defined as having a poor outcome because of repeat surgery, placement of a LTC or urinary incontinence following TURP. These events occurred in only 12% (6/47) of the control cohort (P = 0.004). In multiple regression analysis a good outcome was associated with presentation in acute urinary retention (AUR; P = 0.01) while a poor outcome was associated with surgery in the context of hormone refractory disease (P = 0.004). Requirement for a LTC despite surgery (12/46) was also associated with the absence of AUR at presentation (P = 0.01) and hormone refractory disease (P = 0.01).

Conclusion:  A significant number of men with prostate cancer and LUTS may not derive a good palliative benefit from TURP. Patients with hormone refractory disease in particular are more likely to have poorer outcomes.
Genetic polymorphisms in the cytochrome P450 1A1 and 2E1 genes, smoking, drinking and prostate cancer susceptibility: A case‐control study in a Han nationality population in Southern China
Authors: YANG JIE , QIAN LI‐XIN , WU HONG‐FEI , XU ZHENG‐QUAN , SUI YUAN‐GENG , WANG XIN‐RU , ZHANG WEI
Published: July 2006

Aim:  To investigate the association among the polymorphisms of the cytochrome P450 1A1 and 2E1 genes, smoking, drinking and the risk of prostate cancer (PCa) in a Han nationality population in Southern China.

Methods:  A case–control study including 225 PCa patients and 250 age‐matched controls was conducted. The six polymorphic sites of the CYP 1A1 and CYP2E1 genes were analysed by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) or allele‐specific PCR technique using genomic DNA isolated from peripheral blood lymphocytes.

Results:  We found that the CYP1A1 Val/Val genotype significantly increased the risk for PCa (OR, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.09–4.68). In contrast, the CYP2E1 C1/C2 (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.46–0.99) or C2/C2 genotype (OR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.10–1.00) significantly decreased the risk. Furthermore, the individuals carrying the CYP1A1 Val allele and the CYP2E1 C1/C1 genotype showed the highest risk (OR, 2.50; 95% CI, 1.45–4.29). Though there was no significant difference with smoking history (P = 0.237) or drinking habit (P = 0.499) between cases and controls, a deep smoking habit (OR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.28–3.17) and heavy smoking history (OR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.04–2.50) significantly increased the susceptibility of PCa after stratification by smoking method and accumulative smoking amount. Moreover, both the CYP1A1 Val allele (OR, 2.82; 95% CI, 1.49–5.35) and CYP2E1 C1/C1 genotype (OR, 2.57; 95% CI, 1.31–5.02) had obvious interaction with heavy smoking history that significantly raised the risk. We also discovered a significant interaction between the CYP2E1 C1/C1 genotype and drinking (OR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.04–3.28).

Conclusions:  Individuals carrying the CYP1A1 Val allele or the CYP2E1 C1/C1 genotype with a smoking or drinking habit were at increased risk of PCa, which also showed a positive correlation with exposure dose of tobacco.
Evaluation of an adrenal mass in a patient with progressive prostate cancer reveals pheochromocytoma
Authors: ALIKHAN MIR A , WILLIAMS ROBERT , UDAYA KUMAR , SHAEFER ROBERT F , VISWAMITRA SANJAYA C , KOHLI MANISH
Published: July 2006

Abstract  Adrenal masses in cancer patients pose diagnostic problems. We report the case of a 59 years old male with a history of prostate cancer who presented to us with serially rising prostate specific antigen. On imaging studies he had bone lesions and in addition had a 1.7 cm left adrenal mass. Since metastasis to the adrenal gland has rarely been reported in prostate cancer, and since the radiological criteria in our case favored malignancy, we proceeded with hormonal evaluation and fine needle aspiration biopsy of the adrenal mass which proved it to be pheochromocytoma. This was followed by an uneventful adrenalectomy.
ENDOSCOPIC DIAGNOSIS OF MUCOSAL ADENOCARCINOMAS AND INTESTINAL METAPLASIA OF COLUMNAR‐LINED ESOPHAGUS USING ENHANCED‐MAGNIFICATION ENDOSCOPY
Authors: Yagi Kazuyoshi , Nakamura Atsuo , Sekine Atsuo , Umezu Hazime
Published: July 2006

The present study assessed whether or not acetic acid‐enhanced‐magnification endoscopy was practical for the detection of mucosal cancer as well as intestinal metaplasia. Fifty‐three patients (40 men, 13 women; median age 60.8 years) with columnar‐lined esophagus were enrolled in a prospective trial of enhanced‐magnification endoscopy after instillation of 1.5% acetic acid. Each enhanced‐magnification endoscopic mucosal pattern was classified as one of six types: type I, small round pits of uniform size and shape; II, slit‐reticular pattern; IIIa, gyrus pattern; IIIb, villous pattern; IV, irregular granular pattern and V, minute grain‐like pattern. Two adenocarcinomas were found in two patients and intestinal metaplasia was found in 26 of the 52 patients (50.0%); 12 of 25 (48.0%) were < 1 cm, seven of 18 (38.9%) were 1–2 cm, three of five (60.0%) were 2–3 cm and four of four (100%) were > 3 cm. A total of 115 biopsy specimens were obtained from enhanced‐magnified areas. Three of three areas (100%) showing type V and two of two areas (100%) showing type IV were adenocarcinoma. Twenty‐four (71%) of 34 areas indicating type IIIa were intestinal metaplasias and 10 (29%) showed cardiac mucosa. Nine of 10 (90%) of type IIIb were intestinal metaplasias; 45 (82%) of 55 type II specimens showed cardiac mucosa and eight (15%) were intestinal metaplasias. Eleven of 11 (100%) type I specimens showed fundic mucosa. Acetic acid‐enhanced‐magnification endoscopy was effective for the diagnosis of adenocarcinomas as well as intestinal metaplasia in Barrett’s esophagus.
SUPERFICIAL BARRETT’S ESOPHAGEAL CANCER OBSERVED BY MAGNIFYING ENDOSCOPY
Authors: Niwa Yasumasa , Ohashi Akira , Miyahara Ryoji , Matsuura Testsuo , Maeda Osamu , Ando Takafumi , Ohmiya Naoki , Goto Hidemi
Published: July 2006

A 65‐year‐old man was referred for the precise examination of the distal esophagus. Endoscopy showed abnormality of the lower esophagus. Conventional and chromoendoscopy showed a salmon pink‐colored esophagus with partial irregular area. Magnifying endoscopy revealed villous epithelium and irregular minute surface. Barrett’s esophagus with dysplasia was diagnosed. Because the histological biopsy showed adenocarcinoma, esophagectomy was performed. Magnifying endoscopy is useful for the detection of malignancy in Barrett’s esophagus.
MANAGEMENT OF INTRADUCTAL PAPILLARY MUCINOUS NEOPLASM OF THE PANCREAS
Authors: Itoh Akihiro , Hirooka Yoshiki , Kawashima Hiroki , Niwa Yasumasa , Goto Hidemi
Published: July 2006

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas (IPMNs) consist of main duct (MD) type and branch duct (BD) type. The authors describe their way of thinking regarding diagnostic modalities and management for BD type IPMNs. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS) provide high resolution images of main and branch pancreatic ducts. The cases with nodules demonstrated by EUS and/or IDUS regardless of the size are the indication of operation. There were 235 cases with BD type IPMN who underwent EUS and IDUS between April 1991 and June 2005. A total of 94 patients underwent surgical resection and were histopathologically diagnosed (carcinoma, 10 cases; adenoma, 64 cases; hyperplasia, 20 cases). Diagnoses of 79 cases with nodules detected by EUS or IDUS preoperatively were 10 carcinomas, 61 adenomas and eight hyperplasias. Diagnoses of 15 cases without nodules but with symptoms were three adenomas, 12 hyperplasias and no carcinoma. The authors think that the combination of EUS and IDUS is the best way for diagnosing BD type IPMNs in the present state.
CYTOLOGICAL CRITERIA OF PANCREATIC JUICE IN INTRADUCTAL PAPILLARY MUCINOUS NEOPLASMS
Authors: Nakaizumi Akihiko , Takenaka Akemi , Takakura Rena , Uehara Hiroyuki
Published: July 2006

Although it is not always easy to distinguish benign from malignant intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas by the imaging techniques, the cytological examination of pancreatic juice is a useful method to differentiate them. Therefore, the present paper describes the authors’ cytological criteria of pancreatic juice in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms.