bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ELEVATED CIRCULATING LEVELS OF TNFα AND ITS p55 SOLUBLE RECEPTOR ARE ASSOCIATED WITH AN ADVERSE PROGNOSIS IN LYMPHOMA PATIENTS
Authors: SALLES Gilles , BIENVENU Jacques , BASTION Yves , BARBIER Yves , DOCHE Christophe , WARZOCHA Krzysztof , GUTOWSKI Marie‐Claude , RIEUX Claire , COIFFIER Bertrand
Published: October 2003

In 88 newly diagnosed lymphoma patients, tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and soluble TNF type I receptor (p55‐R‐TNF) were prospectively determined in plasma by immunoradiometric assay (IRMA) and ELISA methods respectively. These 88 patients included 19 with centrocyto‐centroblastic lymphoma, 13 patients with other low‐grade lymphoma, and 56 with high‐grade lymphoma. Median TNFα plasma values were 20 pg/ml (range 5–380 pg/ml) in patients versus 7 pg/ml (range 4–9 pg/ml) in 20 healthy control subjects. Presence of TNFα level ≥20 pg/ml was significantly associated with elevated LDH level (P < 0.0001), serum β2‐microglobulin level ≥ 3 mg/l (P < 0.0001), haemoglobin ≤ 12 g/dl (P = 0.0001), Ann Arbor stage III or IV disease (P< 0.005), and with bulky tumour (P = 0.01). High level of TNFα was also associated with B symptoms (P < 0.005), poor performance status (P < 0.05), and serum albumin ≤ 35 g/l (P < 0.05). Levels of p55‐R‐TNF were also markedly elevated in these lymphoma patients (median of 3.5 ng/ml, range 0.8–18.8 ng/ml) versus 1.45 ng/ml in control subjects (range 1.1–2.3 ng/ml). Level of p55‐R‐TNF ≥ 3.5 ng/ml was significantly associated with poor performance status (P < 0.0001), B symptoms (P < 0.0001), β2‐microglobulin levels ≥ 3 mg/l (P < 0.0001), serum albumin ≤ 35 g/l (P = 0.0001), C‐reactive protein > 6 mg/l (P = 0.0003), elevated (> 20 pg/ml) IL‐6 level (P < 0.005), haemoglobin ≤ 12 g/dl (P < 0.005), and bulky tumour (P < 0.001). In the whole group of 88 patients, both high TNFα and p55‐R‐TNF levels strongly predicted short progression‐free survival (P < 0.005 for both variables) and overall survival (P < 0.001 and P < 0.0001 respectively). In multivariate analyses the elevation of p55‐R‐TNF retained a higher significance over the other variables and therefore improved the predictive value of the International Prognostic Index. This study suggests that elevated TNFα and p55‐R‐TNF levels have a high correlation with other adverse prognostic factors in lymphoma patients and may predict a poor outcome.
FUSIDIC ACID INDUCED ACUTE IMMUNOLOGIC THROMBOCYTOPENIA
Authors: EL‐Kassar Nahed , Kalfon Pierre , Fromont Patricia , Vezinet Corinne , Godeau Bertrand , Duedari Najib , Bierling Philippe
Published: October 2003

Fusidic acid is used in hospitals as second‐line therapy for multidrug‐resistant staphylococcal infections. We report the first fully documented case of fusidic acid induced thrombocytopenia, in a 48‐year‐old patient. The thrombocytopenia was abrupt and severe but resolved spontaneously 7 d after drug withdrawal. The thrombocytopenia transiently relapsed 6 d later, when fusidic acid was reintroduced. Haemorrhagic signs were observed, but no severe bleeding occurred. Platelet transfusions failed to increase the platelet count. We detected an IgG platelet antibody in the patient’s serum, that specifically recognized platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa only in the presence of fusidic acid.

Fusidic acid induced thrombocytopenia should be considered as a possible cause for the thrombocytopenia frequently seen in the intensive care setting.
Trisomy 3 in marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma: a study based on cytogenetic analysis and fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: DIERLAMM JUDITH , MICHAUX LUCIENNE , WLODARSKA IWONA , PITTALUGA STEFANIA , ZELLER WOLFGANG , STUL MICHEL , CRIEL ARNOLD , THOMAS JOSE , BOOGAERTS MARC , DELAERE PIERRE , CASSIMAN JEAN‐JACQUES , DE WOLF‐PEETERS CHRISTIANE , MECUCCI CRISTINA , VAN DEN BERGHE HERMAN
Published: October 2003

Trisomy 3 represents the most frequent and consistent chromosomal abnormality characterizing the recently defined entity marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma (MZBCL). By cytogenetic analysis and/or fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) on interphase nuclei we found an increased copy number of chromosome 3 in 22/36 (61%) successfully analysed cases, including 8/12 cases with extranodal MZBCL, 8/13 cases with nodal MZBCL, and 6/11 patients with splenic MZBCL. Sensitivity of interphase cytogenetics was somewhat higher than that of conventional cytogenetic investigation. Structural chromosomal changes involving at least one chromosome 3 were seen in 11/20 cases with an increased copy number of chromosome 3: +del(3)(p13) was demonstrated in three cases, and was the sole chromosomal abnormality in one of them; +i(3)(q10) was seen in two other patients; and rearrangements involving various breakpoints on the long arm of chromosome 3 were found in the remaining cases. FISH on metaphase spreads confirmed these structural abnormalities and additionally showed two unexpected translocations involving chromosome 3. We conclude that: (1) trisomy 3 occurs in a high proportion of extranodal, nodal and splenic MZBCL; (2) FISH on interphase nuclei is an additional and sensitive tool in detecting an increased copy number of chromosome 3 in MZBCL; (3) additional structural abnormalities involving the long arm of chromosome 3 are frequent but non‐recurrent and are perhaps secondary changes; and (4) abnormalities such as +del(3)(p13) and +i(3)(q10) suggest that genes located on the long arm of chromosome 3 are of particular importance in the pathogenesis of MZBCL.
Nuclear translocation of protein kinase C‐α and ‐ζ isoforms in HL‐60 cells induced to differentiate along the granulocytic lineage by all‐trans retinoic acid
Authors: Zauli Giorgio , Visani Giuseppe , Bassini Alessandra , Caramelli Elisabetta , Ottaviani Emanuela , Bertolaso Lucia , Bertagnolo Valeria , Borgatti Paola , Capitani Silvano
Published: October 2003

We investigated whether members of the protein kinase C (PKC) family of enzymes were involved in the nuclear events underlying granulocytic differentiation induced by 10−6 M all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) in HL‐60 cells. PKC activity was analysed by using a serine substituted specific peptide which enabled the evaluation of the whole catalytic activity of both Ca++‐dependent and Ca++‐independent PKC isoforms. In parallel, the subcellular distribution of various PKC isoforms was evaluated by Western blot, immunoprecipitation and in situ immunocytochemistry analyses.

The level of PKC catalytic activity in the nuclei of HL‐60 cells significantly (P<0.01) and progressively increased from 1 h of ATRA treatment onwards. Consistently, PKC‐α and ‐ζ showed a striking and selective accumulation inside the nucleus upon treatment with ATRA. On the other hand, PKC‐βI and ‐βII, the only two other isoforms present at nuclear level, did not show any significant modification upon ATRA treatment. The remaining PKC isoforms were not detectable inside the nucleus and showed only modest and non‐significant variations, also in whole cell homogenates, upon ATRA treatment, except PKC‐δ which showed a progressive down‐regulation. Our data suggest that a selective nuclear translocation of PKC‐α and ‐ζ might be involved in the process of granulocytic differentiation induced by ATRA in HL‐60 cells.
Susceptibility of AML cells to in vitro apoptosis correlates with heat shock protein 70 (hsp70) expression
Authors: Chant Ian D. , Rose Peter E. , Morris Alan G.
Published: October 2003

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) cells from some individuals rapidly undergo apoptosis during in vitro culture. We have analysed this mode of cell death in AML cells harvested from patients at initial presentation and during subsequent treatment/relapse. Using flow cytometric analysis of propidium iodide‐stained cells and quantitation of the subdiploid apoptotic peak, we observed that leukaemic cells from patients with AML displayed a heterogenous susceptibility to apoptosis in terms of the rate of accumulation of apoptotic cells. After 48 h incubation in the absence of added serum or exogenous growth factors the percentage of apoptotic cells ranged from 3% to 99%. This susceptibility to apoptosis correlated significantly with intracellular expression of hsp70 (P=0.009), but not hsp90, and was also associated with the presence of p53 and low levels of expression of bcl‐2.
T‐ and B‐cell immune reconstitution and clinical outcome in patients with multiple myeloma receiving T‐cell‐depleted, reduced‐intensity allogeneic stem cell transplantation with an alemtuzumab‐containing conditioning regimen followed by escalated donor lymphocyte infusions
Authors: D'Sa Shirley , Peggs Karl , Pizzey Arnold , Verfuerth Stephanie , Thuraisundaram Dharsha , Watts Michael , White Harry , Hale Geoff , Waldmann Herman , Goldstone Anthony , Mackinnon Stephen , Yong Kwee
Published: October 2003

Summary. Immune reconstitution after conventional allogeneic transplantation is a major determinant of survival. We conducted a detailed investigation of T‐ and B‐cell immune reconstitution and clinical outcome in 19 patients with multiple myeloma undergoing reduced‐intensity stem cell transplantation using in vivo T‐cell depletion with alemtuzumab. These patients experienced delayed T‐cell recovery, particularly in the naïve (CD45 RA+) CD4 compartment. T‐cell receptor spectratype analysis showed a reduced repertoire diversity, which improved rapidly after the administration of donor leucocyte infusions and subsequent conversion to full donor T‐cell chimaerism. Post‐transplant recovery of CD19+ B cells was also delayed for up to 18 months. Spectratype analysis of IgH CDR3 repertoire revealed a gradual normalization in IgM spectratype complexity by 6–12 months after transplant. There was a high incidence of viral infection, particularly cytomegalovirus reactivation, but the regimen‐related mortality was low, perhaps because of the very low incidence of acute graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD; grade I‐II skin GVHD was seen in 5/19 patients). Over 80% of all patients have relapsed at a median of 283 (range 153–895) d after transplant, suggesting that the initially low rate of GVHD comes at a high price with regard to the desired graft‐versus‐myeloma effect.
Are macroinvertebrates in high altitude streams affected by oxygen deficiency?
Authors: Jacobsen Dean , Rostgaard Stig , Vásconez Juan José
Published: October 2003

1. The solubility of oxygen in water increases with decreasing temperature. This has led to a general perception of cold, high mountain streams as more oxygen rich than warmer lowland streams, and that macroinvertebrates inhabiting high altitude streams have had no need to adapt to critical oxygen conditions. However, this fails to take into account that oxygen solubility declines with decreasing atmospheric pressure, which may be of importance at high altitudes.

2. Based on samples of macroinvertebrate benthos and in situ measurements of respiratory oxygen demand of macroinvertebrates in small streams from sea level to 4000 m a.s.l. in Ecuador, we determined predicted oxygen availability, oxygen demand and macroinvertebrate assemblage structure along this wide altitudinal gradient.

3. We show that the predicted oxygen availability at 4000 m a.s.l. is only one fifth of that at sea level, whereas the mean weight‐specific respiratory rate of macroinvertebrates declined by only 50%, from 400 to 3800 m. We suggest that this disproportionately large gap between availability and demand of oxygen at high altitudes may imply a potential oxygen deficiency for the fauna, and we discuss how oxygen deficiency can be expected to affect macroinvertebrates in high altitude streams.

4. Finally, we present preliminary data on the predicted response to oxygen deficiency of macroinvertebrate assemblages in high altitude streams. Compared with lowland streams, assemblages in natural high altitude streams include relatively few groups normally regarded as oxygen‐sensitive. Nevertheless, high altitude assemblages react more strongly to lowering of oxygen saturation, and are thus more sensitive to organic pollution.

5. Oxygen deficiency has been overlooked completely in studies of the altitudinal distribution of species and aquatic communities. We argue that oxygen deficiency may be a potentially important factor, and that more focus on this topic is likely to produce significant new insights in aquatic community ecology.
Role of the N‐ and C‐terminal regions of the PufX protein in the structural organization of the photosynthetic core complex of Rhodobacter sphaeroides
Authors: Francia Francesco , Wang Jun , Zischka Hans , Venturoli Giovanni , Oesterhelt Dieter
Published: October 2003

The core complex of Rhodobacter sphaeroides is formed by the association of the light‐harvesting antenna 1 (LH1) and the reaction center (RC). The PufX protein is essential for photosynthetic growth; it is located within the core in a 1 : 1 stoichiometry with the RC. PufX is required for a fast ubiquinol exchange between the QB site of the RC and the Qo site of the cytochrome bc1 complex. In vivo the LH1–PufX–RC complex is assembled in a dimeric form, where PufX is involved as a structural organizer. We have modified the PufX protein at the N and the C‐terminus with progressive deletions. The nine mutants obtained have been characterized for their ability for photosynthetic growth, the insertion of PufX in the core LH1–RC complex, the stability of the dimers and the kinetics of flash‐induced reduction of cytochrome b561 of the cytochrome bc1 complex. Deletion of 18 residues at the N‐terminus destabilizes the dimer in vitro without preventing photosynthetic growth. The dimer (or a stable dimer) does not seem to be a necessary requisite for the photosynthetic phenotype. Partial C‐terminal deletions impede the insertion of PufX, while the complete absence of the C‐terminus leads to the insertion of a PufX protein composed of only its first 53 residues and does not affect the photosynthetic growth of the bacterium. Overall, the results point to a complex role of the N and C domains in the structural organization of the core complex; the N‐terminus is suggested to be responsible mainly for dimerization, while the C‐terminus is thought to be involved mainly in PufX assembly.
Infrared spectroscopy as a tool for discrimination between sensitive and multiresistant K562 cells
Authors: Gaigneaux Anthoula , Ruysschaert Jean‐Marie , Goormaghtigh Erik
Published: October 2003

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was performed on human leukemic daunorubicin‐sensitive K562 cells and their multiresistant counterpart derived by selection. Statistical analysis, including variable reduction and linear discriminant analysis was performed on sensitive and multiresistant cells spectra in order to establish a diagnostic tool for multiresistant pattern. For each of the two methods of data reduction tested [genetic algorithm or principal component analysis (PCA)] discrimination between the two cell lines was found to be possible. The best results, obtained with PCA‐reduction, showed an accuracy of 93% on a distinct test set of spectra. These results demonstrate the efficiency of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy for classification. Further analysis of the spectral differences indicated that discrimination between resistant and sensitive cells was based on variations in all cellular contents. Lipid and nucleic acid decreased, relatively, while the protein content increased.
Radiation‐induced laryngeal angiosarcoma after cervical tuberculosis and squamous cell carcinoma: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Miura Katsutoshi , Kum YoonSeup , Han Guiping , Tsutsui Yoshihiro
Published: October 2003

Primary laryngeal angiosarcoma (LA) is quite rare with only 13 cases reported in English literature to date. A case of LA after radiation therapy for tuberculosis and squamous cell carcinoma is reported. A 70‐year‐old woman had a history of radiation therapy for left cervical tuberculosis at the age of 28. At 60 years of age a squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx was found and chemotherapy and radiotherapy, consisting of a total dose of 68.4 Gy, were administered. At the age of 68, recurrent squamous cell carcinoma was suspected from several biopsies, and a total laryngectomy with right thyroidectomy was performed. The tumor cells formed vascular spaces and expressed some endothelial markers, such as CD34, CD31, and Ulex europaeus agglutinin I, but no epithelial markers, such as cytokeratins or epithelial membrane antigen. No residual squamous cell carcinoma was found. In the present case, it was suspected that irradiation to the larynx for cervical tuberculosis and squamous cell carcinoma induced angiosarcoma. The patient was still alive despite multiple skin and soft tissue metastasis 3 years and 6 months after the radical operation. Distinction of postirradiation angiosarcoma from psuedoangiosarcomatous carcinoma seems difficult but is important because irradiation is not effective and an initial radical surgery is the only effective treatment. Although irradiation is a common treatment for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma, this is only the second case of radiation‐induced LA in English literature.
Acquired pure red cell aplasia in a hemodialyzed patient
Authors: TANUMA YASUSHI , YOKOO AKIFUMI , TAKASHIMA HIDENORI
Published: October 2003

Abstract A 68‐year‐old male had end‐stage renal disease secondary to hypertension. He was placed on chronic dialytic therapy and was given recombinant human erythropoietin (epoetin) for renal anemia. One month later, rapidly progressing anemia was noted. The anemia was unresponsive to maximal doses of epoetin and the patient soon became transfusion‐dependent. Erythroid hypoplasia was demonstrated by bone marrow biopsy. A detailed search for the cause of the erythroblastopenia revealed nothing. A diagnosis of acquired pure red cell aplasia was made. The use of immunosuppressive agents improved the patient's symptoms and laboratory data. Antibodies for erythropoietin (EPO) were negative after the treatment. It is suggested that patients with EPO‐resistant anemia with no obvious etiology should be examined for underlying hematologic disorders.
Successful treatment of primary aldosteronism due to computed tomography‐negative microadenoma
Authors: NISHIZAWA KOJI , NAKAMURA EIJIRO , KOBAYASHI TAKASHI , KAMOTO TOSHIYUKI , TERAI AKITO , TERACHI TOSHIRO , OGAWA OSAMU , ITOH HIROSHI , NAKAO KAZUWA
Published: October 2003

Abstract We report a case of aldosterone‐producing microadenoma that was correctly diagnosed and thus treated less invasively by laparoscopic adrenalectomy. A 58‐year‐old woman presented with palpitation and muscular weakness. She exhibited hypertension, hypokalemia and increased aldosterone excretion with suppressed renin activity. Therefore, primary aldosteronism was suggested. Although adrenal scintigram and computed tomography findings in the adrenal glands were normal, adrenal venous sampling tests indicated an overproduction of aldosterone in the right adrenal gland. We diagnosed an aldosterone‐producing microadenoma in the right adrenal gland and performed an adrenalectomy. The patient became normotensive postoperatively and histopathological examination demonstrated a microadenoma, 5 mm in diameter.
Identification of bikunin isolated from human urine inhibits calcium oxalate crystal growth and its localization in the kidneys
Authors: OKUYAMA MITSUHIKO , YAMAGUCHI SATOSHI , YACHIKU SUNAO
Published: October 2003

Background: We previously reported a high molecular weight substance purified from human urine that strongly inhibited calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystal growth in vitro. In the study present herein, we identified and investigated a protein purified from human urine that strongly inhibits CaOx crystal growth using a column chromatography series.

Methods: The protein was identified by amino acid sequencing and was investigated by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE), western blotting and immunohistochemical staining.

Results: The molecular weight of this protein was approximately 35 KDa, and it also had another band around 20 KDa. We determined that the amino acid sequence of the protein was homologous with that of bikunin, the light chain of the inter‐alpha‐trypsin inhibitor, which is known as a strong CaOx crystallization inhibitor in vitro. On western blotting analysis, the molecular weight was also found to be around 35K Da, the same as that of bikunin. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that it was mainly located in the epithelial cells of the proximal tubules and the thin descending segment near the loop of Henle, but not in the glomeruli, distal tubules or the collecting ducts.

Conclusion: In the present study, the protein extracted from human urine was identical to bikunin, which may be expressed mainly in the proximal tubules and the thin descending segment near the loop of Henle, and which prevents CaOx crystallization in vitro.
Outcome of the treatment of invasive non‐transitional cell carcinoma
Authors: GIRGIN CENGIZ , SEZER AKIF , UÇ RUŞEN , ERMETE MURAT , ÖZKAN UǦUR , GÜREL GÖZEN
Published: October 2003

Background: We evaluated the treatment outcomes of non‐transitional cell carcinoma (non‐TCC) cases after radical cystectomy.

Methods: Radical cystectomy was performed in 259 invasive bladder cancer patients in our department and of these, 59 (22.7%) were non‐TCC. Primary squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), adenocarcinomas and undifferentiated cancers (UC) were grouped as non‐TCC of the bladder. Of the 59 non‐TCC; 32 SCC, 20 UC, five adenocarcinoma and two sarcomatoid tumor cases were demonstrated.

Results: The 5‐year disease‐specific survival rate of TCC and non‐TCC cases were 48.9 and 28.2%, respectively (P = 0.0016). The 5‐year disease‐specific survival rates of SCC and UC were 25.1 and 23.4%, respectively. The median survival time of SCC, UC and adenocarcinoma cases were 19, 12 and 6 months, respectively (P = 0.4579). The disease‐specific survival rates of TCC and non‐TCC cases at stage pT2NoMo were 79.1 and 27.2%, respectively (P = 0.0000). The median survival time of SCC, UC and adenocarcinoma cases were 19, 12 and 13.3 months, respectively, for the same stage. The survival time of TCC, SCC and UC cases at stage pT3NoMo were 23, 26 and 45 months, respectively (P = 0.2307). The median survival time at stages pT2–3N1Mo for the same groups were 18, 16 and 11 months, respectively (P = 0.0939).

Conclusion: The study presented here demonstrates that both TCC and non‐TCC cases have poor survival rates in locally advanced disease and that at the pT2NoMo stage the prognosis of non‐TCC cases is poor when compared with TCC cases.
Experimental epizootiology of Zoophthora anhuiensis (Entomophthorales) against Myzus persicae (Homoptera: Aphididae) with a description of a modified Gompertz model for aphid epizootics
Authors: Feng Ming‐Guang , Li Hui‐Ping
Published: October 2003

Epizootiological features of Zoophthora anhuiensis, a fungal pathogen specific to aphids in southern China, were studied in six aptera colonies of Myzus persicae at 16 regimes of temperature (T = 10, 15, 20 and 25°C) and relative humidity (H = 90%, 95%, 98% and 100% RH) with initially infected proportion (Ip) of 0.5 in experiment (Expt) 1 or at a fixed regime of 15°C and 100% RH with a variable Ip of 0.17–1.00 in Expt 2. Mycosis‐caused mortalities (Mp) varied with aphid densities (D) over time after colony initiation (t) were well fitted to a Gompertz growth model modified to include the variables T, H, Ip and D in the form of Mp = 91.72exp{−5.282exp[–(0.0095T + 0.0128H/T−0.5407D2/H)t]} for Expt 1 (r2 = 0.94) or Mp = 95.49exp{−4.314exp[–(0.1479Ip + 0.1636/D)t]} for Expt 2 (r2 = 0.97). These variables were effective in determining the rate of epizootic development in the M. persicae colonies. Based on the observed and fitted results, Z. anhuiensis was most adaptive to cool climate or season and epizootiologically was subject to a minimal effect of RH at an optimum of ≈ 15°C. However, the humidity became determinant for epizootic progress at higher temperatures. Interactive effects of the variables and application of the fitted models for predicting epizootic development in field situations are discussed.
Lupus vulgaris: unusual presentations over the face
Authors: Khandpur S , Reddy BSN
Published: October 2003

Lupus vulgaris (LV) is the most common morphological variant of cutaneous tuberculosis. However, the occurrence of bizarre clinical presentations over atypical sites often leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment causing significant morbidity. This report seeks to highlight two unusual cases of lupus vulgaris occurring on the face of immunocompetent women and remarkably mimicking periorbital cellulitis and basal cell carcinoma, respectively. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology, an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). With four‐drug antitubercular therapy, both patients had a dramatic response.
Red fingers syndrome and recurrent panniculitis in a patient with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Giménez‐García R , Sánchez‐Ramón S , Sánchez‐Antolín G , Velasco Fernández C
Published: October 2003

Cases of red fingers syndrome and nodular vasculitis in patients with hepatitis C have rarely been described. Both red fingers syndrome and nodular vasculitis are characterized by microscopic vasculitis, and it has been hypothesized that hepatitis C plays a role in the pathogenesis of cutaneous disorders such as vasculitis, especially in cryoglobulinaemic vasculitis. We describe the case of a 75‐year‐old woman diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C who presented with nodular lesions on her right thigh and red fingers syndrome. A skin biopsy taken from a nodule showed infiltration of the vessel walls by mononuclear cells and septal and lobular panniculitis. The diagnosis of nodular vasculitis was established. In our opinion, red fingers syndrome and nodular vasculitis might be related to a vascular reaction of immune‐mediated mechanisms induced by hepatitis C.
BEAUTIFUL LICHENS
Authors: Hammer Samuel
Published: October 2003

Books reviewed:

Brodo, I. M., Sharnoff, S. D., Sharnoff, S., Lichens of North America.
Regional differences in kelp‐associated algal assemblages on temperate limestone reefs in south‐western Australia
Authors: Wernberg Thomas , Kendrick Gary A. , Phillips Julia C.
Published: October 2003

Abstract.  Ecklonia radiata (C. Agardh) J. Agardh kelp beds — a characteristic feature of the nearshore environment along the south‐west Australian coastline — contribute significantly to the coastal biodiversity in temperate Australia, yet, little is known about the organization of these macroalgal assemblages.

 By compiling existing and new data sets from habitat surveys, we have characterized and compared the structure of kelp‐associated macroalgal assemblages in three regions (Marmion Lagoon, Hamelin Bay and the marine environment neighbouring the Fitzgerald River National Park) across more than 1000 kilometres of the south‐west Australian coastline.

 152 macroalgal taxa had been recognized within the three regions and this is in the range of species richness reported from other Australian and African kelp beds. The kelp‐associated algal assemblages were regionally distinct, 66% of all taxa were only found in one region and only 17 taxa were found in all three regions. Adjacent regions shared an additional 13–15 taxa. The regional shifts in assemblage structure were evident in species composition of both canopy and understorey. The organization of assemblages followed a spatial hierarchy where differences in assemblage structure were larger among regions (hundreds of kilometres apart) than among sites within regions (kilometres apart) and differences among sites within region were larger than differences among quadrats within sites (metres apart). Despite this hierarchy each level of nesting contributed approximately the same to total variation in assemblage structure and these spatial patterns were stronger than temporal differences from seasons to 2–3 years. Our results suggest that local and small‐scale processes contribute considerably to heterogeneity in macroalgal assemblages throughout south‐western Australia, and, in particular, our results are consistent with E. radiata exerting a strong influence on macroalgal assemblage structure. Further, our study contradicts the existence of a general south‐west Australian kelp assemblage, although a few species may form the core of E. radiata associations across regions.
High‐temperature, low‐pressure metamorphism and development of prograde symplectites, Marble Hall Fragment, Bushveld Complex (South Africa)
Authors: Pitra P. , De Waal S. A.
Published: October 2003

Metapelitic rocks from the Marble Hall Fragment, enclosed in the granites of the magmatic Bushveld Complex, record a two‐stage, low‐pressure, high‐temperature metamorphism. An early paragenesis containing chiastolitic andalusite, cordierite, biotite and quartz ± garnet crystallized in most rocks and equilibrated at 550–600 °C, 0.2 GPa. It was transformed during the second, peak event into various parageneses that commonly coexist within a single thin section. These include garnet–cordierite–biotite–K‐feldspar–quartz, sillimanite–cordierite–K‐feldspar–quartz and spectacular quartz‐undersaturated cordierite–spinel symplectites replacing the chiastolite porphyroblasts.

Based on a detailed phase diagram analysis, we argue that these parageneses result from rapid heating at an approximately constant pressure to temperatures of more than about 720 °C. At these temperatures, the internally buffered activity of water was reduced by incipient water‐saturated partial melting, while only minor quantities of melt were produced. Subsequent dry conditions inhibited large‐scale equilibration and, together with local inhomogeneities in mineral distribution, led to the development of contrasting parageneses and symplectite textures. No signs of widespread fluid‐absent melting of biotite were found, and so the temperature probably did not exceed 760 °C. The peak metamorphic event is attributed to the emplacement of the hot Nebo granite, whereas the early metamorphism was probably caused by the intrusion of one of the phases of the Rustenburg Layered Suite.

We infer the conditions of development of the cordierite–spinel intergrowths and we show that, although symplectites are commonly associated with retrograde processes (cooling and/or decompression), they can record a prograde metamorphic evolution. Furthermore, our contribution emphasizes the importance of the concept of reduced equilibration volume for the understanding and interpretation of some particular textures and parageneses in common rocks.
The Relationship Between Androgens and Arterial Stiffness in Older Men
Authors: Dockery Frances , Bulpitt Christopher J. , Donaldson Mandy , Fernandez Sarojani , Rajkumar Chakravarthi
Published: October 2003

Objectives: To assess the relationship between endogenous androgen levels and arterial stiffness in older men.

Design: A retrospective, cross‐sectional study.

Setting: A London hospital‐based, clinical research unit for the elderly.

Participants: Fifty‐five men (mean age±standard deviation=71.1±8.0).

Intervention: Sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG), testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) were measured in all subjects who had a stored serum sample drawn the same day as arterial stiffness measures were performed. Free testosterone index (FTI) was calculated ((total testosterone/SHBG)×100 (%)). The measures of arterial stiffness used were pulse wave velocity (PWV) using the Complior system and systemic arterial compliance (SAC) using the area method.

Measurements: Relationship between arterial stiffness and serum androgens.

Results: FTI showed a strong positive relationship with SAC (r=0.507, P<.001) and, correspondingly, an inverse relationship with carotid‐femoral (C‐F) and carotid‐radial (C‐R) PWV (r=–0.427 and –0.402, respectively, P≤.002). With multiple regression, including age, blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index, and waist/hip ratio, FTI remained a significant determinant of SAC and C‐R PWV but not C‐F PWV. In the subgroup of men without cardiovascular disease or vasoactive medication use (n=37), all three relationships remained significant. DHEAS was inversely related to C‐F PWV only (r=–0.304, P=.041).

Conclusion: The known association between lower androgenicity and increased cardiovascular risk in men might be explained by altered vascular stiffness.
Reduction of adverse citrate reactions during autologous large‐volume PBPC apheresis by continuous infusion of calcium‐gluconate
Authors: Buchta Christoph , Macher Maria , Bieglmayer Christian , Höcker Paul , Dettke Markus
Published: October 2003

BACKGROUND:  Citrate‐related side effects are common adverse reactions during PBPC apheresis. To reduce the incidence of citrate‐related reactions, the effect of a continuous calcium‐gluconate infusion on the appearance of hypocalcemic symptoms and on the subjective tolerance toward large‐volume leukapheresis (LVL) was tested.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  A double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled trial was carried out in 50 patients undergoing standardized LVL at a median ACD‐A ratio of 1.99 mg per kg and minute. Patients were randomly assigned to receive a continuous IV infusion of either saline or calcium‐gluconate at a dose of 1.8 mmol calcium per hour. Subjective tolerance toward LVL was determined by standardized rating systems. Further, hormonal and electrolyte changes were monitored to assess the effect of continuous calcium infusion on calcium homeostasis.

RESULTS:  Continuous IV administration of calcium‐gluconate throughout LVL reduced the incidence of citrate‐related effects by 65 percent. In patients who developed signs of hypocalcemia, the symptoms were weaker, and less medical intervention was needed to resolve clinical symptoms. The subjective tolerance toward LVL was superior in patients receiving calcium support compared to control patients. Continuous calcium infusion attenuated changes in serum phosphorus compared to patients receiving saline. No differences were observed in the variation of serum potassium and serum magnesium between the control group and the treatment group. The administration of calcium was not associated with technical problems related to the apheresis procedure, neither was any effect of calcium support on the total number of CD34+ cells collected observed.

CONCLUSION:  These results indicate that continuous support of calcium‐gluconate during LVL is an effective means of reducing the incidence of citrate‐related symptoms and improving subjective tolerance toward LVL, without affecting the technical performance or the number of CD34+ cells collected.
Epicardium‐Based Left Atrial Ablation:
Authors: SCHWARTZMAN DAVID , BONANOMI GIANLUCA , ZENATI MARCO A.
Published: October 2003

Introduction: An important developmental task for surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation is simplification. A significant step would be the development of tools that create satisfactory ablation lesions without necessitating cardiopulmonary bypass or atriotomy. Optimally, these lesions would have no adverse impact on atrial electromechanical properties.

Methods and Results: We sought to characterize left atrial (LA) lesions created by a bipolar ablation device without cardiopulmonary bypass or atriotomy and to assess their impact on LA electromechanical properties. In each of five pigs, lesions were delivered to the epicardium of the beating heart, and encircled and connected right and left pulmonary vein vestibules and the atrial appendage. Before and after ablation, LA electromechanical properties were assessed using endocardial electromechanical mapping and intracardiac echocardiography. Postmortem histologic analysis also was performed. Each lesion was thrombus‐free and barotrauma‐free, histologically transmural, and a complete conduction barrier. Although a large aggregate area (24% ± 6%) of LA myocardium was excluded, there was no significant change in global electromechanical properties. However, marked diminishment in appendage function was observed.

Conclusion: Epicardium‐based LA ablation in a beating heart could be achieved successfully without cardiopulmonary bypass or atriotomy. Although there was no adverse impact on global electromechanical properties, there was evidence of important regional diminishment. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. ***‐***, October 2003)
Effects of Cytochalasin D on Electrical Restitution and the Dynamics of Ventricular Fibrillation in Isolated Rabbit Heart
Authors: HAYASHI HIDEKI , MIYAUCHI YASUSHI , CHOU CHUNG‐CHUAN , KARAGUEUZIAN HRAYR S. , CHEN PENG‐SHENG , LIN SHIEN‐FONG
Published: October 2003

Introduction: Cytochalasin D (cyto‐D) has been used as an excitation‐contraction uncoupler during optical mapping studies. However, its effects on action potential duration restitution (APDR) and dynamics during ventricular fibrillation (VF) are unclear.

Methods and Results: Langendorff‐perfused rabbit hearts (N = 6) were immersed in a tissue chamber. Transmembrane potential was recorded using glass microelectrodes. APD measured to 90% repolarization (APD90) was used to construct the APDR curve. During regular pacing at 300‐msec cycle length, increasing concentrations of cyto‐D resulted in progressively prolonged APD90 (131 ± 26 msec, 171 ± 14 msec, and 177 ± 14 msec) and steepened maximum slope of the APDR curve (1.1 ± 0.2, 1.3 ± 0.2, and 1.6 ± 0.4 for control, 5 μM, and 10 μM, respectively; P < 0.01). Resting membrane potential, AP amplitude, and maximum dV/dt did not change. Cyto‐D lengthened VF cycle length and APD90, and steepened the maximum slope of the APDR curve. However, cyto‐D did not significantly change the diastolic interval. The dominant frequency of pseudoelectrocardiogram progressively decreased with increasing concentrations of cyto‐D (15.2 ± 0.6 Hz, 11.1 ± 2.4 Hz, and 9.8 ± 3.2 Hz for control, 5 μM, and 10 μM, respectively; P < 0.01). Sustained (>1 min) VF was repeatedly inducible at baseline and with 5 or 10 μM of cyto‐D.

Conclusion: Continuous perfusion of cyto‐D at 5 or 10 μM prolonged APD90, steepened APDR slope, and reduced dominant frequency in rabbit ventricles. Cyto‐D at these concentrations allowed induction of sustained VF. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. ***‐***, October 2003)
Do sympatric Trichogramma species parasitize the pest insect Helicoverpa armigera and the beneficial insect Chrysoperla carnea in different proportions?
Authors: Silva Isabel M.M.S. , Stouthamer Richard
Published: October 2003

Parasitism of two host species by five Trichogramma species (Hymenoptera, Trichogrammatidae) was studied in the laboratory. The host species were: i) the bollworm Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae), an important pest of many crops in the tropics and subtropics, and ii) one of its natural enemies, the lacewing Chrysoperla carnea Stephens (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae), a predator often used as a biological control agent. The proportion of H. armigera eggs parasitized from the total number of parasitized hosts differed between Trichogramma species. The average number of parasitized eggs per female in 24 h by Trichogramma pintoi and T. bourarachae was 10 of H. armigera and about 0.5 of C. carnea. For the other three Trichogramma species (T. cordubensis, T. evanescens and T. turkestanica) these averages varied from 6 to 11 H. armigera eggs and from 3 to 4 C. carnea eggs. Total adult offspring production, contacts with hosts, secondary clutch size and sex‐ratio of each Trichogramma species were determined as well. The results show that sympatric Trichogramma may parasitize target and non‐target species in different proportions. If this difference corresponds to the field situation, simple laboratory tests could be performed to select not only efficient biogical control agents, but also species which are the least detrimental to non‐target hosts.
Intracellular punctures by the adult whitefly Bemisia argentifolii on DC and AC electronic feeding monitors
Authors: Johnson D.D. , Walker G.P.
Published: October 2003

One of the most biologically important electrical penetration graph (EPG) waveforms recorded from aphids on DC EPG systems is the potential drop (pd), which is correlated with intracellular punctures by the stylet tips. In this study, pds of the adult female Bemisia argentifolii Bellows & Perring (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae), recorded on a DC EPG, are characterized and compared to pds of aphids. Whitefly pds consisted of 3 phases similar to those recorded from probing aphids. The major difference between aphid pds and whitefly pds was that whitefly pds lacked any observable subphases within the second phase of the pd. In addition, whitefly pds differed from aphid pds in that they: (1) did not occur frequently during stylet penetration, (2) did not occur early within probes, (3) did not occur during brief probes (<1 min). Pds produced by probing whiteflies always were preceded by a variant of waveform C which we named the pre‐pd. The differences between pds of aphids and whiteflies are discussed in terms of their implications for virus transmission and host selection. Using a technique where EPG recordings can be switched back and forth between DC and AC systems, we demonstrated that the AC EPG pseudotransition waveform (Pt) was equivalent to the DC pd, and thus was correlated with intracellular punctures. Previously, intracellular punctures by whiteflies had not been detectable on AC EPG systems. The AC Pt consisted of three distinct phases (Pt1, Pt2, and Pt3) and our observations suggest that AC Pt1 correlates with the pre‐pd waveform in DC EPGs and that AC Pt 2 and 3 correlate with the intracellular phase of the DC pd. AC Pts (n = 47) and DC pds (n = 43) were recorded on three separate plant species and were similar on all plant species.
The role of volatiles from cruciferous plants and pre‐flight experience in the foraging behaviour of the specialist parasitoid Cotesia plutellae
Authors: Potting R.P.J. , Poppy G.M. , Schuler T.H.
Published: October 2003

The braconid Cotesia plutellae is an important larval parasitoid of the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella), a major pest of crucifers in the tropics and sub‐tropics. The in‐flight searching behaviour of C. plutellae was investigated in a wind tunnel and the close‐range attack behaviour observed in cages. The relative importance of volatile stimuli emanating from the plant‐host‐complex, oilseed rape (Brassica napus) –P. xylostella, in the long‐range attraction of C. plutellae was investigated. Plants that were mechanically damaged, or damaged by P. xylostella larvae, were attractive to the parasitoid. Host‐damaged leaves remained attractive to the parasitoid after removal of the host larvae. These results indicate that C. plutellae predominantly uses plant derived stimuli in its in‐flight searching behaviour. An oviposition experience or contact with a host‐damaged leaf prior to the bioassay significantly increased the response to these volatile cues. The foraging behaviour of C. plutellae is compared with other braconid larval parasitoids attacking lepidopteran hosts on crucifers.
Transgenic rice plants expressing a trypsin inhibitor are resistant against rice stem borers, Chilo suppressalis
Authors: Mochizuki Atsushi , Nishizawa Yaeko , Onodera Haruko , Tabei Yutaka , Toki Seiichi , Habu Yoshiki , Ugaki Masashi , Ohashi Yuko
Published: October 2003

A synthetic gene, mwti1b, coding for a winged bean trypsin inhibitor WTI‐1B, has been introduced and expressed in rice plants, Oryza sativa. Protein extracts from transgenic rice plants expressing the trypsin inhibitor inhibited the gut proteases of larvae of the serious insect pest, the rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in vitro. The growth of larvae reared on transgenic rice plants expressing WTI‐1B at more than 1 ng/10 μg total protein was significantly retarded compared to that on non‐transgenic control plants.
Comparative efficacy of Beauveria bassiana, Bacillus thuringiensis, and aldicarb for control of Colorado potato beetle in an irrigated desert agroecosystem and their effects on biodiversity
Authors: Lacey L.A. , Horton D.R. , Chauvin R.L. , Stocker J.M.
Published: October 2003

Five weekly applications of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin, a genetically engineered isolate of Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Raven®), and aldicarb (Temik®) were compared for control of Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say) in an irrigated desert cropping system. B. thuringiensis was applied using low and high label rates (1.17 and 7.0 l ha−1). B. bassiana was applied at 5×1013 spores ha−1. Aldicarb (Rhône‐Poulenc), applied at 3.37 kg a.i. ha−1 provided the greatest beetle control and potato yields (45 metric tons ha−1), but overall lowest biodiversity in nontarget organisms, particularly predatory Heteroptera. Low and high rates of B. thuringiensis produced fair to excellent beetle control, yielded 33 and 40 metric tons ha−1 and enabled good survival in predatory Heteroptera and other nontargets. Plots treated with B. bassiana resulted in poor control of beetles prior to row closure after which fair to good control was achieved. Yield in the Beauveria‐treated plots was 33 metric tons ha−1 and effect on biodiversity was comparable to the Bt‐treated plots. The lowest number of overwintering adult L. decemlineata was found in the plots treated with bacteria and fungi (0.68–0.84 adults/0.03 m−3 of soil) and the highest was found in control and aldicarb plots (3.44 and 1.84 adults/0.03 m3 of soil). Aphids and leafhoppers showed higher densities in plots treated with microbial control agents, but were eliminated from plots treated with aldicarb.
Relationships between temperature, development and survival of different life stages of the tomato fruit fly, Neoceratitis cyanescens
Authors: Brévault Thierry , Quilici Serge
Published: October 2003

The development and survival of female Neoceratitis cyanescens (Bezzi) (Diptera: Tephritidae) from egg to complete ovarian maturation were studied in the laboratory at five different constant temperatures: 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 °C. The aim of this study was to get information on the influence of temperature on pre‐mature stages, as a prerequisite to optimise rearing procedures and to understand temporal and geographical patterns of fruit fly occurrence. The developmental rate of the different life stages increased linearly with increasing temperatures up to 30 °C. The fastest development of pre‐mature stages was recorded at 30 °C (22±1 days) and the slowest at 15 °C (98±3 days). The day‐degrees requirements (K) to complete total development were 432.6 day‐degrees. Lower temperature thresholds were 11.4, 11.9, 10.0, and 11.1 °C for egg, larval, pupal stages and ovarian maturation, respectively. The number of adults obtained from an initial batch of 100 eggs reached a maximum (64) at 25 °C. At 35 °C, no adults emerged. Larval developmental time was significantly shorter in green tomato fruits than in potato tubers at 15, 20, and 25 °C. Mortality rate of larvae was higher in green tomato fruits than in potato tubers at 25 and 30 °C.