bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathogenic diversity within field populations of Orobanche cumana and different reactions on sunflower genotypes
Authors: MOLINERO‐RUIZ M L , MELERO‐VARA J M , GARCÍA‐RUIZ R , DOMÍNGUEZ J
Published: November 2006

Different races of the parasitic Orobanche cumana (sunflower broomrape) have been reported in Spain, race F being the most virulent. Full resistance in sunflower to races A–E is achieved with each of the single major genes Or1 to Or5 respectively. However, parasitised hybrids allegedly resistant to race F were observed in early 2002. The purpose of this study was to verify broomrape incidences (BI) on resistant sunflower genotypes, to assess the mixture of races within field populations and to test for partial resistance to race F in the sunflower hybrids showing a low degree of attack (DA) by the weed. Tests were conducted under field conditions in two locations of southern Spain. While no significant differences were found for yield and BI between locations, the DA on the cultivars depended on the location. With high infection levels and significantly lower yield in susceptible controls, marked differences in BI and DA were found within resistant cultivars, but all of them showed similar crop yield. When artificially inoculated with several populations of race F, line P96 and mainly line L86, were consistently slightly infected, suggesting they were inbred lines responsible for horizontal resistance in infested fields. L86 was extremely susceptible to race E populations, which is unusual as sunflower resistance to one race provided resistance to all the previously described races of O. cumana. No different virulences were detected within two groups of subpopulations (races E and F) inoculated onto resistant sunflower genotypes. However, race F subpopulations showed significant differences in aggressiveness, which seems to be related to horizontal (multigenic) resistance of the crop to the parasitic weed.
Quantifying the dormancy of Alopecurus myosuroides seeds produced by plants exposed to different soil moisture and temperature regimes
Authors: SWAIN A J , HUGHES Z S , COOK S K , MOSS S R
Published: November 2006

In pot studies, seeds of Alopecurus myosuroides were less dormant when produced under warm and dry, than under cool and wet conditions. The temperature to which plants were exposed had a greater effect on seed dormancy than soil moisture. The timing of temperature stress had a big impact on initial seed dormancy. The critical period was during seed maturation, irrespective of temperature conditions during the earlier phase of panicle emergence and anthesis. A much higher proportion (57–62%) of seeds collected from fields in 2001, 2003 and 2005 were non‐dormant than in 2002 and 2004 (22–28%). Meteorological records showed that the mid‐June to mid‐July periods in England for 2001, 2003 and 2005 were warmer than average but in 2002 and 2004 were cooler than average. Consequently, results for samples collected from fields support those from experiments conducted under more controlled conditions. Studies in outdoor micro‐plots showed that the differences in seed dormancy recorded with freshly produced seed did affect the rate of germination in the field, 2–3 months after shedding.
Mutation analysis of BRCA1 and BRCA2 from 793 Korean patients with sporadic breast cancer
Authors: Han S‐H , Lee K‐R , Lee D‐G , Kim B‐Y , Lee K‐E , Chung W‐S
Published: November 2006

To investigate the role of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in Korean patients with sporadic breast cancer, 793 breast cancer patients were analyzed by denaturing high performance liquid chromatography and direct sequencing. The 793 breast cancer patients enrolled in this study had no family history of affected first‐ or second‐degree relatives with breast and/or ovarian cancer. Seventy‐nine different sequence variations were identified, of which 34 were novel. Fifteen deleterious mutations were detected in 20 out of 793 patients (2.5%): 11 frameshift mutations and 4 nonsense mutations (seven in BRCA1 and eight in BRCA2), and no recurrent or founder mutations were observed in BRCA mutation screening. However, three mutations (K467X, 3972delTGAG, and R2494X in BRCA2) were identified in other studies of the Korean population. Of 793 patients, the clinicopathological information was obtained in 135 patients, who included 20 deleterious mutation‐positive and 115 deleterious mutation‐negative groups. The median age at diagnosis, histologic type, histologic grade and T stage did not show statistically significant difference between these two groups. BRCA‐mutation‐associated tumors showed lower estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and HER‐2/neu but higher p53 expression. Although poor prognostic features were noted in BRCA‐associated tumors, we did not find statistically significant differences. The present study will be helpful in the evaluation of the need for the genetic screening of germline BRCA mutations and reliable genetic counseling for sporadic breast cancer patients.
Prevention of catheter‐related bacteremia in pediatric intestinal transplantation/short gut syndrome children with long‐term central venous catheters
Authors: Onder Ali Mirza , Kato Tomoaki , Simon Nancy , Rivera‐Hernandez Maria , Chandar Jayanthi , Montane Brenda , Francoeur Denise , Salvaggi Genaro , Tzakis Andreas G. , Zilleruelo Gaston
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Catheter‐related bacteremia (CRB), along with liver failure is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in parenteral nutrition dependent children. Immunosuppressant therapy following transplantation increases the risk of CRB. Previous reports in pediatric cancer patients have described the use of antibiotic lock solutions (ABL) for prophylaxis of CRB. In our institution, we evaluated five children (ages between one and four yr old), three with intestinal transplantation and two with short gut syndrome, who were high risk for recurrent CRB defined by their incidence of bacteremias in the observation period (>2 CRB/six months or life‐threatening CRB). These children received the prophylactic ABL protocol with tobramycin‐tissue plasminogen activator, four h per day, on alternating ports for six to eight months. Each patient was his/her own historical control. We observed decreased incidence of CRB's (p < 0.05), days of hospitalization due to CRB's (p < 0.0001), the days of intensive care admissions due to CRB (p < 0.0001), as well as the total days of systemic antibiotic exposure (p < 0.001). Catheter survival during the ABL era was longer but not reaching statistical significance. There was no advantage in removing and later replacing the catheter to wire‐guided exchange while on systemic antibiotics. One patient presented with break‐through bacteremia, septic shock and died. None of the catheters were lost to occlusion/malfunction. ABL did not induce an increased resistance to tobramycin. These preliminary findings suggest that ABL can be used safely and effectively in parenteral nutrition dependent children with long‐term central venous catheters.
Gremmeniella abietina types cannot be distinguished using ascospore morphology
Authors: Uotila A. , Kurkela T. , Tuomivirta T. , Hantula J. , Kaitera J.
Published: November 2006

Twenty‐one Gremmeniella abietina var. abietina type A and 12 type B samples with ripened apothecia were collected in Sweden and Finland. Morphological dimensions of the ascospores were determined with an image analyser (Leica Qwin). Measured variables included length, width, perimeter and roundness of ascospores. Variations in these variables overlapped between the two types. Type A ascospores were significantly shorter (mean length 15.8 μm) than the type B ascospores (mean length 17.1 μm). Type A ascospores were also significantly rounder than type B ascospores. Differences between these morphological characters were, however, too small to distinguish the types as separate taxonomical species. Round‐pointed and acute ascospores were found in the same apothecium but in different asci. According to the hypervariable marker GAAA1000, both round‐pointed and acute ascospores originated from the same two parents in normal segregation.
Port‐Orford‐cedar resistant to Phytophthora lateralis
Authors: Oh E. , Hansen E. M. , Sniezko R. A.
Published: November 2006

Phytophthora lateralis, an exotic root pathogen, is the primary cause of Port‐Orford‐cedar (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana) mortality throughout its native range in southwest Oregon and northwest California. Most trees in the field are very susceptible, but genetic resistance to this pathogen has been demonstrated. Since the late 1980s, the USDA Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management in cooperation with Oregon State University have conducted an intensive programme to identify and test resistant trees from the field, and propagate them in a seed orchard with the goal of providing resistant seedlings for regeneration. Susceptible families showed only 0–10% survival using a variety of inoculation techniques. Rooted cuttings of resistant parents are seldom killed, and seedling families of these parents exhibit 25–100% survival, depending on family and inoculation technique. Symptom development on resistant trees, including sunken lesions, and resinosis as well as reduced colonization and re‐isolation success, was consistent with a hypersensitive reaction. In a long‐term field test, five resistant families had 20–80% survival after 16 years, while three susceptible families had 0–8% survival in the same interval.
Gene mutation analysis and immunohistochemical study of β‐catenin in odontogenic tumors
Authors: Miyake Tetsumi , Tanaka Yukichi , Kato Keisuke , Tanaka Mio , Sato Yukiko , Ijiri Rieko , Inayama Yoshiaki , Ito Yumi , Aoki Shinjiro , Kawabe Ryoichi , Tohnai Iwai
Published: November 2006

In the present study the significance of nuclear/cytoplasmic expression of β‐catenin (CTNNB1) and mutation of the CTNNB1 gene (CTNNB1) in odontogenic tumors was examined. Six ameloblastomas (five follicular ameloblastomas and one plexiform ameloblastoma) and three malignant odontogenic tumors (one metastasizing ameloblastoma, one ameloblastic carcinoma, and one primary intraosseous odontogenic carcinoma) were investigated for CTNNB1 expression and CTNNB1 mutation. Immunohistochemically, all follicular ameloblastomas and one primary intraosseous odontogenic carcinoma exhibited focal and moderate nuclear/cytoplasmic expression of CTNNB1, whereas the plexiform ameloblastoma and the remaining two malignant odontogenic tumors had entirely membranous expression. CTNNB1 mutation at codon 40 of exon 3 was found in one of the six follicular ameloblastomas. The other five follicular ameloblastomas, the plexiform ameloblastoma, and the three malignant odontogenic tumors did not show mutation in exon 3 of CTNNB1. These findings further confirmed that CTNNB1 mutation is not frequent in ameloblastoma and malignant odontogenic tumors, although the abnormality of Wnt signaling may be associated with some of these tumors.
Oncocytic non‐functioning endocrine tumor of the pancreas
Authors: Sugihara Ayako , Nakasho Keiji , Ikuta Shin‐ichi , Aihara Tsukasa , Kawai Takashi , Iida Hiroya , Yoshie Hidenori , Yasui Chiaki , Mitsunobu Masao , Kishi Kiyohiko , Mori Toshio , Yamada Naoko , Yamanegi Koji , Ohyama Hideki , Terada Nobuyuki , Ohike Nobuyuki , Morohoshi Toshio , Yamanaka Naoki
Published: November 2006

Herein is presented the case of a malignant non‐functioning endocrine tumor of the pancreas with oncocytic features, and a discussion on the high incidence of malignancy in oncocytic endocrine pancreatic tumors. The patient was a 65‐year‐old woman who showed no paraneoplastic symptoms produced by functioning pancreatic endocrine tumors. The primary tumor was located in the body and tail of the pancreas, and had metastasized to the liver. Tumor cells were arranged in a ribbon‐like or trabecular pattern and had an abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm containing numerous mitochondria and neurosecretory granules. The cytoplasm of the tumor cells was intensely stained with an antimitochondrial antigen antibody. Most tumor cells stained positively with Grimelius stain and for chromogranin A. Some tumor cells also stained for synaptophysin. However, the tumor cells negatively stained for hormones such as insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, gastrin, vasoactive intestinal peptide and pancreatic polypeptide, for serotonin, and for pancreatic enzymes such as amylase and trypsin. Analysis of 18 oncocytic pancreatic endocrine tumors, consisting of those reported previously and that in the present case, suggests that the high incidence of malignancy in oncocytic endocrine tumors is associated with the high incidence of non‐functioning endocrine tumors among them, most of which are malignant.
Dismantling the Poverty Trap: Disability Policy for the Twenty‐First Century
Authors: STAPLETON DAVID C. , O'DAY BONNIE L. , LIVERMORE GINA A. , IMPARATO ANDREW J.
Published: November 2006

Working‐age people with disabilities are much more likely than people without disabilities to live in poverty and not be employed or have shared in the economic prosperity of the late 1990s. Today's disability policies, which remain rooted in paternalism, create a “poverty trap” that recent reforms have not resolved. This discouraging situation will continue unless broad, systemic reforms promoting economic self‐sufficiency are implemented, in line with more modern thinking about disability. Indeed, the implementation of such reforms may be the only way to protect people with disabilities from the probable loss of benefits if the federal government cuts funding for entitlement programs. This article suggests some principles to guide reforms and encourage debate and asks whether such comprehensive reforms can be successfully designed and implemented.
Does Governance Matter? Board Configuration and Performance in Not‐for‐Profit Hospitals
Authors: ALEXANDER JEFFREY A. , LEE SHOOU‐YIH D.
Published: November 2006

As performance accountabilities, external oversight, and market competition among not‐for‐profit (NFP) hospitals have grown, governing boards have been given a more central leadership role. This article examines these boards' effectiveness, particularly how their configuration influenced a range of performance outcomes in NFP community hospitals. Results indicate that hospitals governed by boards using a corporate governance model, versus hospitals governed by philanthropic‐style boards, were likely to be more efficient and have more admissions and a larger share of the local market. Occupancy and cash flow were generally unrelated to hospitals' governing board configuration. However, effects of governance configuration were more pronounced in freestanding and public NFP hospitals compared with system‐affiliated and private NFP hospitals, respectively.
Dermatological image search engines on the Internet: do they work?
Authors: Cutrone M , Grimalt R
Published: November 2006

Background  Atlases on CD‐ROM first substituted the use of paediatric dermatology atlases printed on paper. This permitted a faster search and a practical comparison of differential diagnoses. The third step in the evolution of clinical atlases was the onset of the online atlas. Many doctors now use the Internet image search engines to obtain clinical images directly.

Objectives  The aim of this study was to test the reliability of the image search engines compared to the online atlases.

Methods  We tested seven Internet image search engines with three paediatric dermatology diseases.

Results  In general, the service offered by the search engines is good, and continues to be free of charge. The coincidence between what we searched for and what we found was generally excellent, and contained no advertisements. Most Internet search engines provided similar results but some were more user friendly than others. It is not necessary to repeat the same research with Picsearch, Lycos and MSN, as the response would be the same; there is a possibility that they might share software.

Conclusions  Image search engines are a useful, free and precise method to obtain paediatric dermatology images for teaching purposes. There is still the matter of copyright to be resolved. What are the legal uses of these ‘free’ images? How do we define ‘teaching purposes’? New watermark methods and encrypted electronic signatures might solve these problems and answer these questions.
Obtaining consent to participate in research: the issues involved in including people with a range of learning and communication disabilities
Authors: Cameron Lois , Murphy Joan
Published: November 2006

Accessible summary

Title: Saying ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to research

 People with learning disability should get the chance to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to taking part in research.

 This can be hard if you have difficulty in understanding or speaking.

 This paper is about how we tried to find ways to help people understand and say what they felt about taking part in research.

 We found:

Research in the field of learning disability presents particular ethical challenges when obtaining consent from participants. This is further exacerbated when the nature of the research requires participation at all ability levels and involves people with communication impairments. The process of obtaining consent in a research study with 48 participants at four levels of comprehension ability is discussed in this paper. The specific issues of recruitment, seeking consent, ongoing consent and feedback are detailed as are the adaptations made in this project to research methodology and the accessible methods of communication employed. Implications for researchers and future directions for further studies are presented.
In Conversation with Helen Dorr and Vicki Raphael
Authors: Holman Andrew
Published: November 2006

Accessible summary

• There is a new National Family Carer Network putting the views across of family carers.

• They believe family carers have often been given a bad name.

• Family carers now have more places on the Learning Disability TaskForce, but will it do any better than before?

• New laws about who can make decisions will help, if they don't imply that parents are always bad.

• The future for the Network is unclear.
A set of 21 polymorphic microsatellites in Alpine chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra)
Authors: CASSAR S. , GALAN M. , LOISON A.
Published: November 2006

A cross‐species amplification test of 39 bovid microsatellite markers was carried out on chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), a species with a high economic and tourist value, for which a number of life‐history traits remain to be quantified. Of 39 primer pairs tested, 26 gave a specific amplification product and 21 were polymorphic. Locus‐specific allelic richness ranged from two to six. Our results suggest that these loci will be useful for investigating basic population genetics as well as life‐history traits, such as dispersal.
Characterization of microsatellite markers for Couch's spadefoot toad (Scaphiopus couchii) and cross‐amplification in other species of the family Scaphiopodidae
Authors: CHAN L. M.
Published: November 2006

I developed 12 di‐ and tetranucleotide microsatellite loci for Couch's spadefoot toad (Scaphiopus couchii). These loci have 3–37 alleles per locus and observed heterozygosities ranging from 0.157 to 0.941 among 85 individuals from four populations. Global and within‐population exact tests do not reveal departure from Hardy–Weinberg expectations and all loci pairs are in linkage equilibrium. These independent markers will be useful for studies of population structure and kinship in this commonly studied amphibian. Additionally, several of these loci may be applicable for studies of other North American toads of the family Scaphiopodidae.
Characterization of microsatellite markers for the endemic sand dune lizard, Sceloporus arenicolus
Authors: CHAN L. M. , FITZGERALD L. A. , ZAMUDIO K.
Published: November 2006

Here we characterize and report on the genetic variability of eight microsatellite loci for the endemic sand dune lizard, Sceloporus arenicolus, that amplified consistently for individuals throughout the species’ range. The number of alleles per locus was high (mean = 13.25) and observed heterozygosities ranged from 0.354 to 0.808. With the exception of a single locus, the loci did not deviate from Hardy–Weinberg expectations. This set of markers is currently being used to examine population structure and landscape genetics in S. arenicolus, a habitat specialist with a restricted range and patchy distribution.
Dietary deprivation extends lifespan in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Lee Garrick D. , Wilson Mark A. , Zhu Min , Wolkow Catherine A. , De Cabo Rafael , Ingram Donald K. , Zou Sige
Published: November 2006

Dietary restriction (DR) is well known as a nongenetic intervention that robustly extends lifespan in a variety of species; however, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We have found in Caenorhabditis elegans that dietary deprivation (DD) during adulthood, defined as removal of their food source Escherichia coli after the completion of larval development, increased lifespan and enhanced thermotolerance and resistance to oxidative stress. DD‐induced longevity was independent of one C. elegans SIRTUIN, sir‐2.1, which is required for the effects of DR, and was independent of the daf‐2/insulin‐like signaling pathway that independently regulates longevity and larval diapause in C. elegans. DD did not significantly alter lifespan of fem‐1(hc17); eat‐2(ad465) worms, a genetic model of DR. These findings suggest that DD and DR share some downstream effectors. In addition, DD was detrimental for longevity when imposed on reproductively active young adults, suggesting that DD may only be beneficial in the absence of competing metabolic demands, such as fertility. Adult‐onset DD offers a new paradigm for investigating dietary regulation of longevity in C. elegans. This study presents the first evidence that long‐term DD, instead of being detrimental, can extend lifespan of a multicellular adult organism.
Mygalomorph spiders (Araneae: Dipluridae) from the Lower Cretaceous Crato lagerstätte, Araripe Basin, north‐east Brazil
Authors: SELDEN PAUL A. , DA COSTA CASADO FABIO , VIANNA MESQUITA MARISA
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The first mygalomorph spiders from the Lower Cretaceous Crato Lagerstätte of Cearà Province, north‐east Brazil, are described, from adult males and females, in two new genera and species: Cratadiplura ceara Selden, gen. et sp. nov. and Dinodiplura ambulacra Selden, gen. et sp. nov. They belong to the extant family Dipluridae, hitherto known as fossils only from Tertiary strata; thus this occurrence extends the family record by some 90 myr.
Tertiary neotropical Hersiliidae (Arthropoda, Araneae) with new combinations for the extant fauna and comments on historical biogeography of the family
Authors: PENNEY DAVID
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The Neotropical fossil amber Hersiliidae are revised. Prototama Petrunkevitch is a senior synonym of both Priscotama Petrunkevitch and Neotama Baehr and Baehr. Fictotama Petrunkevitch and Perturbator Petrunkevitch are removed from synonymy and are considered nomina dubia because the fossils are poorly preserved. The following new combinations are established for the fossil fauna: Prototama antiqua (Petrunkevitch), P. maior (Wunderlich), P. media (Wunderlich), and P. minor (Wunderlich), and for the extant fauna: P. cunhabebe (Rheims and Brescovit), P. forcipata (F. O. P.‐Cambridge), P. longimana (Baehr and Baehr), P. mexicana (O. P.‐Cambridge), P. obatala (Rheims and Brescovit), P. punctigera (Baehr and Baehr), P. rothorum (Baehr and Baehr) and P. variata (Pocock) (all ex Neotama). It is predicted that at least one undiscovered, extant Prototama species exists on Hispaniola. Hersiliidae have a diverse fossil record. The presence of Oecobiidae, the sister taxon of the Hersiliidae, in New Jersey and Lebanese ambers predicts a minimum geological age of Early Cretaceous for the family. Fossils are of paramount importance in studies of historical biogeography but were not considered in earlier hypotheses regarding the palaeogeographical origins of the family. Previous conclusions that Hersiliidae originated in Africa are here considered to be speculative and unsupported.
Fenestrate bryozoan genera based on species from Ireland originally described by Frederick M‘coy in 1844
Authors: WYSE JACKSON PATRICK N. , McKINNEY FRANK K. , BANCROFT ADRIAN J.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  A large number of fenestrate bryozoan species were named in ‘A Synopsis of the Characters of the Carboniferous Limestone Fossils of Ireland’ by Frederick M‘Coy (1844). At the same time, M‘Coy named the bryozoan genera Ichthyorachis, Ptylopora and Polypora, each of which by monotypy or by subsequent designation was based on new species within that work. Subsequently, d’ Orbigny (1849) named Fenestrellina with the type species Fenestella crassa M‘Coy, 1844 as type species; Miller (1961) named Parafenestella with the type species Fenestella formosa M‘Coy, 1844 as type species; and Wyse Jackson (1988) named Baculopora with the type species Vincularia megastoma M‘Coy, 1844. We re‐describe here in more detail than previously the fenestrate type species originally published in M‘Coy (1844), provide diagnoses of the genera, and compare the nineteenth century genera with more recently named genera that have been discriminated specifically from them.
Bringing geography to the book: charting the reception ofInfluences of geographic environment
Authors: Keighren Innes M
Published: November 2006

Whilst geography has formed an important yet often unacknowledged component in the description and analysis of print culture, its specific and potential contribution to understanding the making, distribution and reading of books has yet to be outlined fully. This paper seeks to describe the different ways in which Ellen ChurchillSemple's 1911volumeInfluences of geographic environmentwas received and understood – to explain why it was read both as a timely manifesto for a scientific approach to geographical research, and as a text which might damage the discipline's legitimacy. In exploringInfluences’ trajectory of diffusion, I argue that it is possible to outline a geography of its reception – to reveal a locational particularity in its reading and reviewing. In so doing, I address questions relating to the epistemic and methodological bases of book geography, and describe the contribution that geography can make to explaining how knowledge and ideas, in textual form, are communicated and received.
Pathophysiology of the antiphospholipid syndrome: roles of anticardiolipin antibodies in thrombosis and fibrinolysis
Authors: AMENGUAL Olga , ATSUMI Tatsuya , KOIKE Takao
Published: November 2006

Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) (anticardiolipin antibodies and lupus anticoagulant) are associated with thrombosis and pregnancy morbidity, the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Despite the clear association between aPL and those manifestations, the precise underlying disease mechanisms remain unclear. APL may affect the normal procoagulant and anticoagulant reactions occurring on cell membranes, and also may interact with certain cells, altering the expression and secretion of procoagulant substances. In this article, we review the immunological characteristics of anticardiolipin antibodies and their potential effects on the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems implicated in the development of thrombotic complications in patients with APS.
Update on the current therapies of lupus nephritis
Authors: MOK C. C.
Published: November 2006

Renal disease is a major organ manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and carries significant morbidity and mortality. Lupus nephritis is more common in certain ethnic groups such as Africans, Hispanics and Asians. The prognosis of lupus nephritis is determined by a large number of clinicopathological, genetic and socioeconomic factors. The choice of treatment should be based on risk stratification of individual patients. Cyclophosphamide (CYC) remains the preferred treatment for high‐risk patients. For other patients, mycophenolate mofetil is an excellent and less toxic alternative to CYC. Evidence regarding the calcineurin inhibitors in lupus nephritis is less strong but they can be considered in patients who are refractory or intolerant to other immunosuppressive agents. For refractory lupus nephritis, a repeat renal biopsy is mandatory and newer modalities such as B‐cell depletion can be considered. Finally, adjunctive measures such as the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and the angiotensin II receptor antagonists, vigorous control of hypertension and lipid level should be contemplated early in the course of the disease.
Anti‐CD20 and other novel biotherapies for systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: TANAKA Yoshiya
Published: November 2006

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by autoreactive T‐cells and polyclonal activation of B‐cells. We reported that SLE patients with organ‐threatening disorders, resistant to intensive conventional therapies, were treated by weekly use of anti‐CD20 antibody rituximab, and that sufficient evidence of excellent tolerability and high efficacy of rituximab therapy was obtained in both a pilot study and a nation‐wide phase I/II clinical examination. Moreover, a rapid and marked reduction in the expression of the co‐stimulatory molecules CD40 and CD80 on B‐cells was found in SLE patients, implying that reduction of both the quantity and the quality of B‐cells by rituximab could improve the disease course in refractory SLE. Recently, anti‐CD22 antibody epratuzumab has also provided excellent tolerability and high efficacy. Therefore, targeting B‐cells may have potential interests by bringing about a breakthrough in treatment of SLE and other autoimmune diseases.
Outcome of lupus renal disease in the past two decades: a report from China
Authors: LU Liang‐Jing , ZOU Yu‐Qiong , GUO Gui‐Mei , YUAN Bing , CHEN Xiao‐Xiang , YE Shuang , DAI Min , YANG Cheng‐De , BAO Chun‐De , GU Yue‐Ying , CHEN Shun‐Le
Published: November 2006

Objective:  To evaluate the differences in the renal survival of lupus nephritis (LN) diagnosed either during 1985–1994 or 1995–2004 and to analyse the possible causes.

Methods:  Fifty‐two patients with biopsy‐confirmed LN were followed up between 1985 and 1994 and 130 patients were followed up between 1995 and 2004. Renal survival was studied with Kaplan‐Meier analysis and the log rank test. Status at diagnosis and treatment schedules were also analysed.

Results:  Renal survival was significantly better in the patients who were diagnosed between 1995 and 2004 (P = 0.0233). The mean time from initiation until first diagnosis of SLE, from the initiation of SLE until referral to our centre, and from first detection of proteinuria until kidney biopsy was significantly shorter in the later decade (P < 0.05). In the decade from 1995 to 2004 there was significantly lower rates of early renal dysfunction and fewer histological signs of chronicity at the time of diagnosis of LN than in the decade from 1985 to 1994. In treatment schedules, more patients received intravenous cyclophosphamide (CTX) in a bolus in the later decade group (P = 0.014). Besides CTX, some new immunosuppressive agents such as cyclosporin A or mycophenolate mofetil were received by more patients in the decade from 1995 to 2004.

Conclusions:  The outcomes for patients with LN was significantly better between 1995 and 2004 than between 1985 and 1994. The result is maybe attributable to earlier diagnosis, earlier treatment, intravenous bolus CTX and more immunosuppressive agents from which to select.
Mycophenolate mofetil in the treatment of non‐renal manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus: a review
Authors: FONG Kok‐Yong
Published: November 2006

Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is efficacious in the management of transplantations and lupus nephritis. It is also useful in the treatment of autoimmune conditions as its mechanisms of action target the T‐ and B‐lymphocytes, leading to suppression of the cell‐mediated immune responses and antibody formation. It has been used successfully in immune‐mediated conditions like myasthenia gravis, autoimmune hepatitis and immune cytopenias. However, its optimal use in non‐renal manifestations (haematological, neuropsychiatric, myocardial, pulmonary, curaneous) in lupus patients are unclear and predominantly based on anecdotal reports. There are yet to be randomised controlled trials to guide the optimal doses and durations of MMF in such situations. MMF is relatively well tolerated and safe to use, though there are reports of serious adverse effects like urticaria, myopathy, Epstein‐Barr virus‐associated B‐cell lymphoma, cytomegalovirus infections and disseminated varicella zoster. Another area of concern for patients is the increased cost of using long‐term MMF. A practical approach for rheumatologists would be to use a dosing regimen guided by data from lupus nephritis trials and using MMF mainly in those lupus patients with non‐renal manifestations failing conventional therapy.
A 1‐year study of two doses of steroid in combination with methotrexate and chloroquine in the treatment of patients with mild and moderate systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: LI Ting , CHEN Shun‐Le , FURST Daniel E. , BAO Chun‐De , LI Li , CHEN Sheng
Published: November 2006

Aim:  This is a retrospective study on the efficacy and adverse effects of treating mild or moderate systemic lupus erythematosus without major organ involvement using small dosage prednisone combined with MTX and chloroquine (PMC).

Methods:  As a retrospective 1‐year follow‐up study, clinic outpatients (Rheumatology Department, Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China) were divided by predinisone dose (Group A, prednisone ≤ 0.2 mg/kg/d; Group B prednisone 0.5–0.6 mg/kg/d). All patients (N = 30 per group) were also administered methotrexate (7.5–10 mg/week) and chloroquine (250 mg/d). Efficacy and adverse effects of the two protocol drug regimens were compared.

Results:  The OUT Score of Group A was reduced from 2.10 ± 1.45 to 0.94 ± 0.73, and Group B from 2.93 ± 2.26 to 1.3 ± 1.29. The treatment was successful and there was no significant difference of efficacy between these two groups. However, the infection rate was much higher in Group B than in Group A (P < 0.001). Most infections occurred in the lung, while infections of the skin were recorded. There were also three patients who presented with Cushing syndrome in Group B. Aseptic necrosis of the femoral head was noted in Group B, but none in Group A.

Conclusions:  Systemic lupus erythematosus patients with mild or moderate activity, and without major organ involvement, can be controlled well with PMC. Otherwise, it was noted that higher doses of prednisone leads to more infections.
COMPARATIVE MORPHOLOGY AND TAXONOMIC STATUS OFGRACILARIOPSIS(GRACILARIALES, RHODOPHYTA)1
Authors: Fredericq Suzanne , Hommersand Max H.
Published: November 2006

The vegetative organization and reproductive development ofGracilariopsis lemaneiformis(Bory) Dawson, Acleto et Foldvik [includingGracilaria sjoestedtiiKylin] were investigated. Our observations on spermatangial development and post‐fertilization features establish thatGracilariopsisDawson is distinct at the generic level fromGracilariaGreville, and ice propose the resurrection of Gracilariopsis Dawson as a result.

Spermatangial parent cells ofGracilariopsisare superficial, initiated in pairs or groups of three by concavo‐convex longitudinal and transverse divisions. Each spermatangial parent cell cuts off a single, colorless spermatangium distally by a transverse division. The female reproductive apparatus consists of a supporting cell that bears a two‐celled carpogonial branch flanked by two sterile branches, as inGracilaria.Likewise, up to six sterile cells fuse with the carpogonium after fertilization to produce a primary fusion cell that generates the gonimoblasts; however, a secondary fusion cell is absent. Inner gonimoblast cells unite with cytologically modified cells of the inner pericarp by means of secondary pit‐connections. Tubular nutritive cells are absent. The gonimoblast consists of a central sterile tissue interconnected throughout by secondary pit‐connections surmounted by a fertile layer composed of carposporangia aligned in straight chains.

The distribution ofGracilariopsisis extended to Western Europe.
OXYGEN‐INDUCED CHANGES IN MORPHOLOGY OF AGGREGATES OF APHANIZOMENON FLOS‐AQUAE (CYANOPHYCEAE): IMPLICATIONS FOR NITROGEN FIXATION POTENTIALS1
Authors: Carlton Richard G. , Paerl Hans W.
Published: November 2006

The filamentous nitrogen‐fixing cyanobacterium Aphanizomenon flos‐aquae (L.) Ralfs forms bundle or fake shaped aggregates which can provide buoyancy control, protection against intense illumination, enhancement of phycosphere nutrient regeneration, and which may result from size‐selective herbivory by zooplankton. The dimensions of aggregates can change quickly. In this study, after a period of darkness, illumination caused aggregates to elongate approximately five‐fold over a 10‐15 min period. The metamorphosis was reversible upon cessation of illumination and through successive light‐dark cycles. Manipulations of environmental oxygen concentration and photosystem Ü activity (via DCMU amendment), together with measurements made inside flakes with O2‐sensitive microelectrocles, showed that the metamorphosis was a response to oxygen concentration and operated to enhance diffusive efflux of photosynthetically produced oxygen during illumination. During darkness oxygen concentration within contracted aggregates became severely depleted relative to the environment. We propose that metamorphic minimization of local oxygen concentration is an adaptation that enhances the ability of Aphanizomenon flos‐aquae to fix atmospheric nitrogen via the oxygen‐labile nitrogenase enzyme system.
CHEMICAL CONTROL OF ANDROSPORE MORPHOGENESIS IN OEDOGONIUM DONNELLII (CHLOROPHYTA, OEDOGONIALES)1
Authors: Hill Gerry J. C. , Cunningham Muriel Ft. , Byrne Margaret M. , Ferry Thomas P. , Halvorson Jason S.
Published: November 2006

Under the influence of the pheromone, “circein,” produced by an oogonial mother cell of Oedogonium donnellii Wolle, the androspore of the same species progresses through several behavioral changes and a series of developmental stages which result in the formation of a sperm‐producing dwarf male thallus. When subjected instead to an environment with an increased nitrate or ammonium ion concentration [0.02 M KNO3 or 0.01 M (NH)2SO4], an androspore undergoes a series of developmental changes which result in the formation of a vegetative male thallus indistinguishable from the one which originally released it. If exposed to neither circein nor increased nitrate/ammonium ion concentration, the androspore enters a cycle of swimming androspore: cyst: swimming androspore. Thus, three separate paths are open to the androspore depending on its environment: (1) development into a dwarf male thallus under the influence of female‐produced pheromone, circein, (2) development into a vegetative thallus under the influence of increased nitrate/ammonium ion concentration, and (3) periodic regeneration through an encystment cycle in an unaltered environment. Treatments with transcriptional and translational inhibitors indicate that androspore development into either a dwarf male or a vegetative thallus requires several different phases of de novo synthesis of RXA and protein stimulated by circein or by nitrate ion.
IMPORTANCE OF PHYSICAL VARIABLES ON THE SEASONAL DYNAMICS OF EPILITHIC ALGAE IN A HIGHLY SHADED CANYON STREAM1
Authors: Duncan Scott W. , Blinn Dean W.
Published: November 2006

The seasonal abundance of epilithic algae was correlated with major physico‐chemical parameters in a first‐order, heavily shaded stream in northern Arizona. Diatoms made up over 85%, by numerical abundance, of the epilithon community Light energy, water temperature, and stream discharge were most highly correlated with seasonal abundance of epilithic diatom taxa when analyzed with stepwise multiple regression. None of the chemical variables measured in the study (NO3‐N, O‐PO4, SiO2, including PH) was found to be significantly correlated with the seasonal community structure of epilithic diatoms. Total diatom cell densities showed a significant negative correlation to stream bed light energy. Likewise, total diatom cell densities along a transect in the stream bed showed a negative correlation to current velocity during those months when base flow was low and stable, and current velocity was ≤25 cm·sec‐1. Most diatom taxa had highest cell densities at temperatures < 16°C and at daily mean stream bed light levels < 400 μE·m−2·s−1. Highest cell densities of green algae occurred at temperatures between 6–16°C and at daily mean stream bed light levels of > 400 μE·m−2·s−1. Blue‐green algae (cyanobacteria) grew best at the highest recorded water temperatures and daily mean stream bed light energy (16–20°C and 900–1200 μE·m−2·s−1). Abrupt increases in NO3‐N coincided with a brief pulse of Nostoc pruniforme colonies during June, and leaf drop from Alnus oblongifolia during October.
EVALUATION OF COMPETITIVE ABILITY OF STAURASTRUM LUETKEMUELLERII (CHLOROPHYCEAE) AND MICROCYSTIS AERUGINOSA (CYANOPHYCEAE) UNDER P LIMITATION1
Authors: Olsen Yngvar
Published: November 2006

The desmid Staurastrum luetkemuellerii Donat et Ruttner and the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa Kütz. showed pronounced differences in chemical composition and ability to maintain P fluxes. The cellular P:C ratio (Qp) and the surplus P:C ratio (Qsp) were higher in M. aeruginosa, indicating a lower yield of biomass C per unit of P. The subsistence quota (Qp) was 1.85 μg P·mg C−1in S. luetkemuellerii and 6.09 μg P·mg C−1in M. aeruginosa, whereas the respective Qp of P saturnted organisms (Qs) were 43 and 63 μg P·mg C−1. These stores could support four divisions in S. luetkemuellerii and three divisions in M. aeruginosa, which suggests that the former exhibited highest storage capacity (Qs/Q0). M. aeruginosa showed a tenfold higher activity of alkaline phosphatase than S. luetkemuellerii when P starved. The optimum N:P ratio (by weight) was 5 in S. luetkemuellerii and 7 in M. aeruginosa.

The initial uptake of Pi pulses in the organisms was not inhibited by rapid (<1 h) internal feedback mechanisms and the short term uptake rote could be expressed solely as a function of ambient Pi. The maximum cellular C‐based uptake rate (Vm) in P starved M. aeruginosa was up to 50 times higher than that of S. luetkemuellerii. It decreased with increasing growth rate (P status) in the former species and remained fairly constant in the latter. The corresponding cellular P‐based value (Um= Vm/Qp) decreased with growth rate in both species and was about 10 times higher in P started M. aeruginosa than in S. luetkemuellerii. The average half saturation constant for uptake (Km) was equal for both species (22 μg P·L−1) and varied with the P status.

S. luetkemuellerii exhibited shifts in the uptake rate of Pi that were characterized by increased affinity (Um/Km) at low Pi, concentrations (<4 μg P·L−1) compared to that at higher concentrations. The species thus was well adapted to uptake at low ambient Pi, but M. aeruginosa was superior in Pi uptake under steady state and transient conditions when the growth rate was lower than 0.75 d−1. Moreover, M. aeruginosa was favored by pulsed addition of Pi.

M. aeruginosa relpased Pi at a higher rate than S. luetkemuellerii. Leakage of Pi from the cells caused C‐shaped μ vs. Pi curves. Therefore, no unique Ks for growth could be estimated. The maximum growth rate (μm) (23° C) was 0.94 d−1for S. luetkemuellerii and 0.81 d−1for M. aeruginosa.

The steady state concentration of Pi (P*) was lower in M. aeruginosa than in S. luetkemuellerii at medium growth rates. The concentration of Pi at which the uptake and release of Pi was equal (Pc was, however, lower in S. luetkemuellerii.
Modulation of Ventricular Repolarization in Patients with Transient Left Ventricular Apical Ballooning: A Case Control Study
Authors: BONNEMEIER HENDRIK , ORTAK JASMIN , BODE FRANK , KUROWSKI VOLKHARD , REPPEL MICHAEL , WEITZ GUNTHER , BARANTKE MELANIE , SCHUNKERT HERIBERT , WIEGAND UWE K.H.
Published: November 2006

Objective: Even though diffuse T wave inversion and prolongation of the QT interval in the surface electrocardiogram (ECG) have been consistently reported in patients with transient stress‐induced left ventricular apical ballooning (AB), ventricular repolarization has not yet been systematically investigated in this clinical entity.

Background: AB, an emerging syndrome that mimics acute ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (MI), is characterized by reversible left ventricular wall motion abnormalities in the absence of obstructive coronary heart disease and significant QT interval prolongation.

Methods: We prospectively enrolled 22 consecutive patients (21 women, median age 65 years) with transient left ventricular AB. A total of 22 age‐, gender‐, body‐mass‐index‐, and left‐ventricular‐function‐matched patients with acute anterior ST‐segment elevation MI undergoing successful direct percutaneous coronary intervention for a proximal occlusion of the LAD, as well as 22 healthy volunteers served as control groups. Beat‐to‐beat QT interval and QT interval dynamicity were determined from 24‐hour Holter ECGs, recorded on the third day after hospital admission.

Results: There were no significant differences in baseline clinical characteristics, except higher peak enzyme release in MI patients. Compared with MI patients, AB patients exhibited significantly prolonged mean QT intervals and rate‐corrected QT intervals (QT: 418 ± 37 vs 384 ± 33 msec, P < 0.01; QTcBazett: 446 ± 40 vs 424 ± 35 msec, P < 0.05; QTcFridericia: 437 ± 35 vs 412 ± 31 msec, P < 0.05). Mean RR intervals tended to be higher in AB patients, without reaching statistical significance (877 ± 96 vs 831 ± 102 msec, P = NS). The linear regression slope of QT intervals plotted against RR intervals was significantly flatter in AB patients at both day‐ and nighttime (QT/RR slopeday: 0.18 ± 0.04 vs 0.22 ± 0.06, P < 0.01; QT/RR slopenight: 0.12 ± 0.03 vs 0.17 ± 0.05, P < 0.01).

Conclusion: The present study is the first to demonstrate significant differences of QT interval modulation in patients with transient left ventricular AB and acute ST‐segment elevation MI. Even though transient AB is associated with a significant QT interval prolongation, rate adaptation of ventricular repolarization (i.e., QT dynamicity) is not significantly altered, suggesting a differential effect of autonomic nervous activity on the ventricular myocardium in transient AB and in acute MI.