bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary spinal epidural manifestation of malignant lymphoma
Authors: SCHWECHHEIMER K. , HASHEMIAN A. , OTT G. , MÜLLER‐HERMELINK H.K.
Published: March 2007

The clinical, histological and immunomorphological data in 19 cases of primary spinal epidural manifestation of malignant lymphomas collected between 1974 and 1994 are reported. The age of the patients varied between 11 and 87 years with a mean age of 56.3 years. There was a slight male predominance (11 : 8). In most cases, the onset of the clinical symptoms was rapid. The preferential tumour localization was the epidural space related to the thoracal vertebral bone. In each case, decompressive laminectomy was performed. The tumours were histologically and immunomorphologically classified as B‐cell lymphomas (14 of 19), T‐cell lymphomas (3 of 19) and anaplastic plasmacytoma (1 of 19). Except for one case, post‐operative staging did not reveal anything other than epidural manifestation of the malignant lymphoma. The vertebral bone, however, was involved in seven cases. Irradiation alone, or in combination with chemotherapy, was performed as additional therapy. The post‐operative survival time was variable.
Lymphomatoid granulomatosis: evidence that some cases represent Epstein‐Barr virus‐associated B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: NICHOLSON A.G. , WOTHERSPOON A.C. , DISS T.C. , SINGH N. , BUTCHER D.N. , PAN L.X. , ISAACSON P.G. , CORRIN B.
Published: March 2007

Lymphomatoid granulomatosis is currently classified as part of a spectrum of angiocentric immunoproliferative lesions. These were initially thought to be of T‐cell phenotype, but recent papers have shown that some cases are B‐cell proliferations, sometimes associated with Epstein‐Barr virus infection. We reviewed the clinicopathological features of 16 patients with pulmonary lymphomatoid granulomatosis, using immunohistochemistry to assess the phenotype of the infiltrate, the polymerase chain reaction to look for immunoglobulin heavy chain and T‐cell receptor gene rearrangements, and in‐situ‐hybridization to look for Epstein‐Barr virus infection. In seven of seven cases the atypical lymphoid population was of B‐cell phenotype, with four cases showing evidence of either monoclonality or oligoclonality. All seven cases, including those that lacked unequivocal proof of malignancy, behaved aggressively. Epstein‐Barr virus RNA was detected in four cases. We conclude that some cases of lymphomatoid granulomatosis are B‐cell lymphomas, sometimes associated with Epstein‐Barr virus infection.
The classification of amyloid deposits in clinicopathological practice
Authors: RÖCKEN C. , SCHWOTZER E.B. , LINKE R.P. , SAEGER W.
Published: March 2007

A series of 104 biopsy cases with histopathological proof of amyloid, submitted to our department of pathology over the last 19 years, were re‐examined. The survey investigated the medical indication for surgery, the origin and quality of the biopsy and the clinical information as documented on the request form for histopathological examination and in hospital records. Amyloid deposits were classified using antisera directed against five major amyloid fibril proteins, i.e. AA, ATTR, Aλ, Aκ and Aβ2M and optimal conditions were sought for the reliable and early characterization of amyloid disease in clinicopathological practice. This survey revealed that 98% of the biopsy cases already suffered from a disease which was either a cause or a result of amyloidosis. In only 2% of the biopsy cases was amyloidosis detected without any clinical indication. Immunohistochemical classification of the amyloid deposits and comparison with hospital records demonstrated diagnostic pitfalls such as immunostaining of amyloid by two or more antibodies recognizing different fibril proteins, and disagreement between immunohistochemical typing of amyloid and the initial clinical diagnosis. Based on these observations we assume that the characterization of amyloid disease and its biological significance is impossible in clinicopathological practice without clinical information or without immunohistochemical classification of the fibril protein in biopsy specimens. Different aspects of histopathological detection of AA‐ and AL‐amyloidosis are discussed.
Immunohistochemical expression of metallothionein in normal human colorectal mucosa, in adenomas and in adenocarcinomas and their associated metastases
Authors: GIUFFRÈ G. , BARRESI G. , STURNIOLO G.C. , SARNELLI R. , D'INCÀ R. , TUCCARI G.
Published: March 2007

The immunohistochemial distribution pattern of metallothionein, a low molecular weight protein with strong affinity for divalent heavy metal ions, has been investigated in normal and neoplastic conditions of the large bowel. Utilizing a monoclonal mouse antibody the following formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded surgical or biopsy samples were studied: tubulo‐villous adenomas (8 cases); adenocarcinomas with various degree of differentiation (85), nine of which were mucinous‐type; synchronous tubular or tubulo‐villous adenomas separate from carcinomas (30); transitional mucosa (45); metastases in lymph nodes (43); and distant metastases (45). Twenty biopsies from the right and left colon of 10 patients affected by irritable bowel syndrome were also analyzed. Normal colonic mucosa as well as transitional mucosa showed metallothionein immunopositivity in enterocytes at the luminal surface and crypts. Evident nuclear and cytoplasmic staining was encountered in tubulo‐villous adenomas; the same reactivity was noted in the basal glandular component of colorectal carcinomas‐synchronous adenomas, while less intense staining was noted in the apical villous portions. A variable metallothionein immunostaining was observed in adenocarcinomas (62.3%), in lymph node (55.8%) and distant hepatic (17.2%) and omental (43.8%) metastases, although it was not always concordant with that reported in the corresponding primary tumour. Whether the metallothionein positivity observed in normal and neoplastic cells is the result of expression of a stable form of the protein or an accumulation in the nucleus and cytoplasm remains to be clarified.
Expression of oncogene products, anti‐oncogene products and oncofetal antigens in intraductal papillary‐mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas
Authors: TERADA T. , OHTA T. , NAKANUMA Y.
Published: March 2007

A few previous studies have demonstrated the expression or mutations of oncogenes and anti‐oncogenes as well as that of oncofetal antigens in intraductal papillary‐mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas. In this study, we have investigated the immunohistochemical expression of oncogene (ras and c‐erbB‐2) and anti‐oncogene (p53 and retinoblastoma [Rb]) products and oncofetal antigens (CEA, CA19‐9 and DUPAN‐2) in nine such tumours of the pancreas. In normal pancreas (5 cases), the Rb gene product and CA19‐9 were expressed in all cases, while ras and c‐erbB‐2 gene products, p53 protein, CEA and DUPAN‐2 were not expressed. In intraductal papillary‐mucinous tumours (n = 9), ras, c‐erbB‐2, p53 and Rb gene products were present in 4/9 (44%), 7/9 (78%), 0.9 (0%) and 6/9 (67%) cases, respectively. CEA, CA19‐9 and DUPAN‐2 were expressed in 8/9 (89%), 9/9 (100%) and 2/9 (22%) cases respectively. In invasive ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancrease (7 cases), ras, c‐erbB‐2, p53 and Rb gene products were expressed in 3/7 (43%), 6/7 (86%), 2/7 (29%) and 3/ & (43%) cases respectively. CEA, CA19‐9 and DUPAN‐2 were expressed in 7/7 (100%), 7/7 (100%) and 6/7 (86%) cases, respectively. The extent and intensity of the expression of these antigens was greater in invasive ductal adenocarcinomas. These data suggest that activation of ras and c‐erbB‐2 oncogenes and inactivation of Rb anti‐oncogene may contribute to the development and progression of intraductal papillary‐mucinous tumours of the pancreas and that there is neo‐expression of CEA and DUPAN‐2 during the development and progression of these tumours.
The conceptual structure of transition to motherhood in the neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Shin Hyunjeong , White‐Traut Rosemary
Published: March 2007

Title. The conceptual structure of transition to motherhood in the neonatal intensive care unit

Aim.  This paper is a report of a concept analysis of transition to motherhood for mothers with infants in a neonatal intensive care unit.

Background.  Mothers with infants in a neonatal intensive care unit have more difficulty in their transition to motherhood compared with mothers of healthy infants. The concept of transition to motherhood in the neonatal intensive care unit is not well‐understood in nursing, often being confused with mothers’ psychological responses in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Methods.  The concept analysis combined Rodgers’ evolutionary method with Schwartz‐Barcott & Kim's Hybrid method. Thirty‐eight studies were reviewed and a purposive sample of 10 Korean mothers with infants in a neonatal intensive care unit was interviewed.

Findings.  Three critical attributes of transition to motherhood in the neonatal intensive care unit were identified: (1) time‐dependent process, (2) psycho‐emotional swirling and (3) hovering around the edge of mothering. These are caused by the antecedents (1) unexpected outcome of pregnancy, (2) awareness of the situation and (3) mother–infant separation. The consequences were: (1) delayed motherhood and (2) developing a sense of meaning concerning family and life. Additionally, five influencing factors to be alleviated were identified: (1) negative meaning attribution, (2) uncertainty, (3) social prejudice, (4) lack of opportunities to make contact with the infant and (5) the neonatal intensive care unit environment.

Conclusions.  This concept analysis should help nurses to understand the process of becoming a mother in a neonatal intensive care unit and plan appropriate interventions for mothers with special needs.
Sexually acquired infections: do lay experiences of partner notification challenge practice?
Authors: Coleman Claire , Lohan Maria
Published: March 2007

Tile. Sexually acquired infections: do lay experiences of partner notification challenge practice?

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to explore experiences of partner notification for syphilis from the perspectives of gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men.

Background.  Partner notification is the ‘cornerstone’ of the prevention and control of sexually acquired infections. As a health strategy, it has been in use for over six decades and is employed across all continents. Its success relies almost entirely on the voluntary response of index patients in disclosing details of their sexual partners and sexual practices and the voluntary response of sexual partners who have been traced. However, internationally, few studies have explicitly explored lay experiences of partner notification.

Method.  A purposive sample of 40 gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men was recruited from two genitourinary clinics in the Greater Dublin area of Ireland and a variety of gay social venues. Semi‐structured interviews were carried out between December 2002 and February 2004.

Findings.  Men's perspectives on partner notification featured three interweaving stages: on tracing sexual partners, on informing partners and on attending clinics. Participants were in favour of partner notification, but did not find it easy to comply with the demands it made on their relationships. Compliance was difficult not only because of the problem of physically tracing casual and anonymous partners, but also because of the challenge of actually notifying partners. The main incentive for contacts to attend clinics was concern for their own health and that of others. Barriers to attending were fear of being exposed to the stigma of being gay and/or having a sexually acquired infection.

Conclusion.  There is a need to develop evidence‐based methods, which are grounded in the lay experience, to support index patients in ‘breaking bad news’ and for continued efforts to de‐stigmatize sexually acquired infections and homosexuality in the view of the general public.
Brain death: close relatives’ use of imagery as a descriptor of experience
Authors: Frid Ingvar , Haljamäe Hengo , Öhlén Joakim , Bergbom Ingegerd
Published: March 2007

Title. Brain death: close relatives’ use of imagery as a descriptor of experience

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to explore the use of imagery to describe the experience of confronting brain death in a close relative.

Background.  The brain death of a loved one has been described as an extremely difficult experience for close relatives, evoking feelings of anger, emotional pain, disbelief, guilt and suffering. It can also be difficult for relatives to distinguish brain death from the state of coma and thus difficult to apprehend information about the diagnosis.

Methods.  Narrative theory and a hermeneutic phenomenological method guided the interpretation of 17 narratives from close relatives of brain dead patients. All narratives were scrutinized for experiences of brain death. Data were primarily collected in 1999. The primary analysis related to close relatives’ experience of brain death in a loved one. A secondary analysis of the imagery they used to describe their experience was carried out in 2003.

Findings.  Six categories of imagery used to describe the experience of confronting a diagnosis of brain death in a loved one emerged: chaotic unreality; inner collapse; sense of forlornness; clinging to the hope of survival; reconciliation with the reality of death; receiving care which gives comfort. Participants also identified two pairs of dimensions to describe their feelings about the relationship between their brain dead relative's body and personhood: presence–absence and divisibility–indivisibility. Being confronted with brain death meant entering into the anteroom of death, facing a loved one who is ‘living‐dead’, and experiencing a chaotic drama of suffering.

Conclusion.  It is very important for members of the intensive care unit team to recognize, face and respond to these relatives’ chaotic experiences, which cause them to need affirmation, comfort and caring. Relatives’ use of imagery could be the starting point for a caring conversation about their experiences, either in conversations at the time of the death or when relatives are contacted in a later follow‐up.
What people with multiple sclerosis perceive to be important to meeting their needs
Authors: Forbes Angus , While Alison , Taylor Melissa
Published: March 2007

Title. What people with multiple sclerosis perceive to be important to meeting their needs

Aim.  This paper is a report of the findings of a survey in which people with multiple sclerosis identified what they believed would be helpful in meeting their current needs.

Background.  People with multiple sclerosis have low levels of satisfaction with the health and social care that they receive, but previous studies suggest that they have a broad range of physical, psychological and social needs.

Method.  A total of 714 people with different levels of disease impact who were participating in a prospective study evaluating multiple sclerosis specialist nurses were asked, ‘What one thing would be most helpful in meeting your current needs?’ The question was included in the postal questionnaire used for the study (mailed in 2001 and 2002). The overall response rate for usable returns (at both time points) was 42%. Descriptive statistics on the frequency of codes and categories generated by content analysis were compiled and compared in relation to demographic and disease characteristics.

Findings.  A total of 445 people responded to the question. Seven categories were identified: medical treatment (29%, n = 126); socio‐environmental support and adaptation (19%, n = 81); enhanced care provision (18%, n = 79); information provision (9%, n = 38); rehabilitation therapies (7%, n = 29); non‐professional care (6%, n = 28); and psychological support (3%, n = 15). Nine per cent of responses (n = 39) were not coded as their meanings were unclear. Socio‐environmental support, rehabilitation and non‐professional care were more frequently identified by those with greater disease impact. Information was identified as a stronger need for those in lower disease impact groups.

Conclusion.  The findings could provide the basis for developing a multiple sclerosis‐specific service satisfaction tool. This could be helpful in assessing the quality of provision, given current variations in the coverage and quality of care provided. Nurses could use such a tool to assess the quality of care in a given population, thereby highlighting gaps in service provision.
Specialist health visitor‐led weight management intervention in primary care: exploratory evaluation
Authors: Jackson Cath , Coe Anne , Cheater Francine M. , Wroe Stephen
Published: March 2007

Title. Specialist health visitor‐led weight management intervention in primary care: exploratory evaluation

Aim.  This paper is a report of an exploratory study to evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of a specialist health visitor‐led weight management clinic in primary care.

Background.  Tackling obesity is a global health priority. Whilst there is evidence to support a role for primary healthcare professionals in its management, provision in England varies widely. Using designated ‘obesity specialists’ is an approach warranting further investigation.

Method.  In 2003–2004, patients with a body mass index of 30 or more received a specialist health visitor‐led intervention based on the Jan Felgens ‘I2E2’ model. Clinical outcome data and self‐reported dietary consumption data were collected at weeks 1, 13, 27 and 52. Quantitative and qualitative data on patient acceptability of the clinic were collected at week 26.

Findings.  Eighty‐nine patients attended the clinic. Mean body weight and body mass index and systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased over time by statistically significant amounts. There was a non‐significant decrease in fasting blood sugar over time, but approximately one in 10 patients with undiagnosed diabetes were identified. No statistically significant change was evident for cholesterol levels. Mean self‐reported weekly consumption of cakes, desserts and snacks decreased and that of fruit and vegetables increased, each by statistically significant amounts. Participants found the clinic highly acceptable and identified the specialist health visitor as fundamental to its success.

Conclusion.  A partnership approach to weight management through which patients are empowered to make sustainable lifestyle changes now needs to be tested in a multi‐centre randomized controlled trial.
Carbohydrate epitopes are immunodominant at the surface of infectious Neoparamoeba spp.
Authors: Villavedra M , Lemke S , To J , Broady K , Wallach M , Raison R L
Published: March 2007

Amoebic gill disease, the main disease of concern to the salmon industry in Tasmania, is caused by the amoeba, Neoparamoeba spp. Experimental infection can only be induced by exposure to wild‐type (WT) parasites isolated from the gills of infected fish, as cultured amoebae are non‐infective. To characterize the surface antigens of WT parasites, we produced monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) using subtractive immunization. Mice inoculated with non‐infective parasites were treated with cyclophosphamide, to deplete reactive lymphocytes, and then immunized with different antigen preparations from infective parasites. When whole parasites were used for boosting, the percentage of WT unique mAbs was very high (86%) as was the percentage of mAbs specific for carbohydrate epitopes (89%). When deglycosylated membranes were used, the numbers of mAbs specific for non‐carbohydrate epitopes did not increase, but the total number of WT unique mAbs was reduced (86–40%). Using an untreated membrane preparation, the total number of mAbs to surface molecules was very high, but all recognized carbohydrate epitopes. The total number of mAbs recognizing carbohydrate epitopes on the surface of the WT parasites was 97%, suggesting that the dominant epitopes on the surface molecules unique to WT parasites are carbohydrate in nature.
Isolation of viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus from mummichog, stickleback, striped bass and brown trout in eastern Canada
Authors: Gagné N , MacKinnon A‐M , Boston L , Souter B , Cook‐Versloot M , Griffiths S , Olivier G
Published: March 2007

Viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus (VHSV) was isolated from mortalities occurring in populations of mummichog, Fundulus heteroclitus, stickleback, Gasterosteus aculeatus aculeatus, brown trout, Salmo trutta, and striped bass, Morone saxatilis, in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Canada. The isolated viral strains produced a cytopathic effect on the epithelioma papillosum cyprini cell line. Serum neutralization indicated the virus was VHSV and sequencing identified the rhabdovirus isolates as the North American strain of VHSV. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the isolates are closely related and form a distinguishable subgroup of North American type VHSV. To our knowledge, this is the first report of VHSV in mummichog and striped bass.
Evaluation of stress‐ and immune‐response biomarkers in Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., fed different levels of genetically modified maize (Bt maize), compared with its near‐isogenic parental line and a commercial suprex maize
Authors: Sagstad A , Sanden M , Haugland Ø , Hansen A‐C , Olsvik P A , Hemre G‐I
Published: March 2007

The present study was designed to evaluate if genetically modified (GM) maize (Bt maize, event MON810) compared with the near‐isogenic non‐modified (nGM) maize variety, added as a starch source at low or high inclusions, affected fish health of post‐smolt Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L. To evaluate the health impact, selected stress‐ and immune‐response biomarkers were quantified at the gene transcript (mRNA) level, and some also at the protein level. The diets with low or high inclusions of GM maize, and its near‐isogenic nGM parental line, were compared to a control diet containing GM‐free suprex maize (reference diet) as the only starch source. Total superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in liver and distal intestine was significantly higher in fish fed GM maize compared with fish fed nGM maize and with the reference diet group. Fish fed GM maize showed significantly lower catalase (CAT) activity in liver compared with fish fed nGM maize and to the reference diet group. In contrast, CAT activity in distal intestine was significantly higher for fish fed GM maize compared with fish fed reference diet. Protein level of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in liver was significantly higher in fish fed GM maize compared with fish fed the reference diet. No diet‐related differences were found in normalized gene expression of SOD, CAT or HSP70 in liver or distal intestine. Normalized gene expression of interleukin‐1 beta in spleen and head‐kidney did not vary significantly between diet groups. Interestingly, fish fed high GM maize showed a significantly larger proportion of plasma granulocytes, a significantly larger sum of plasma granulocyte and monocyte proportions, but a significantly smaller proportion of plasma lymphocytes, compared with fish fed high nGM maize. In conclusion, Atlantic salmon fed GM maize showed some small changes in stress protein levels and activities, but none of these changes were comparable to the normalized gene expression levels analysed for these stress proteins. GM maize seemed to induce significant changes in white blood cell populations which are associated with an immune response.
Lack of genetic structure among ecologically adapted populations of an Australian rainforest Drosophila species as indicated by microsatellite markers and mitochondrial DNA sequences
Authors: SCHIFFER MICHELE , KENNINGTON W. J. , HOFFMANN A. A. , BLACKET M. J.
Published: March 2007

Although fragmented rainforest environments represent hotspots for invertebrate biodiversity, few genetic studies have been conducted on rainforest invertebrates. Thus, it is not known if invertebrate species in rainforests are highly genetically fragmented, with the potential for populations to show divergent selection responses, or if there are low levels of gene flow sufficient to maintain genetic homogeneity among fragmented populations. Here we use microsatellite markers and DNA sequences from the mitochondrial ND5 locus to investigate genetic differences among Drosophila birchii populations from tropical rainforests in Queensland, Australia. As found in a previous study, mitochondrial DNA diversity was low with no evidence for population differentiation among rainforest fragments. The pattern of mitochondrial haplotype variation was consistent with D. birchii having undergone substantial past population growth. Levels of nuclear genetic variation were high in all populations while FST values were very low, even for flies from geographically isolated areas of rainforest. No significant differentiation was observed between populations on either side of the Burdekin Gap (a long‐term dry corridor), although there was evidence for higher gene diversity in low‐latitude populations. Spatial autocorrelation coefficients were low and did not differ significantly from random, except for one locus which revealed a clinal‐like pattern. Comparisons of microsatellite differentiation contrasted with previously established clinal patterns in quantitative traits in D. birchii, and indicate that the patterns in quantitative traits are likely to be due to selection. These results suggest moderate gene flow in D. birchii over large distances. Limited population structure in this species appears to be due to recent range expansions or cycles of local extinctions followed by recolonizations/expansions. Nevertheless, patterns of local adaptation have developed in D. birchii that may result in populations showing different selection responses when faced with environmental change.
The geography of diversification in mutualistic ants: a gene's‐eye view into the Neogene history of Sundaland rain forests
Authors: QUEK S.‐P. , DAVIES S. J. , ASHTON P. S. , ITINO T. , PIERCE N. E.
Published: March 2007

We investigate the geographical and historical context of diversification in a complex of mutualisticCrematogasterants living inMacarangatrees in the equatorial rain forests of Southeast Asia. Using mitochondrial DNA from 433 ant colonies collected from 32 locations spanning Borneo, Malaya and Sumatra, we infer branching relationships, patterns of genetic diversity and population history. We reconstruct a time frame for the ants’ diversification and demographic expansions, and identify areas that might have been refugia or centres of diversification. Seventeen operational lineages are identified, most of which can be distinguished by host preference and geographical range. The ants first diversified 16–20 Ma, not long after the onset of the everwet forests in Sundaland, and achieved most of their taxonomic diversity during the Pliocene. Pleistocene demographic expansions are inferred for several of the younger lineages. Phylogenetic relationships suggest a Bornean cradle and major axis of diversification. Taxonomic diversity tends to be associated with mountain ranges; in Borneo, it is greatest in the Crocker Range of Sabah and concentrated also in other parts of the northern northwest coast. Within‐lineage genetic diversity in Malaya and Sumatra tends to also coincide with mountain ranges. A series of disjunct and restricted distributions spanning northern northwest Borneo and the major mountain ranges of Malaya and Sumatra, seen in three pairs of sister lineages, further suggests that these regions were rain‐forest refuges during drier climatic phases of the Pleistocene. Results are discussed in the context of the history of Sundaland's rain forests.
Astrometric observations of triton
Authors: Qiao R. C. , Yan Y. R. , Shen K. X. , Dourneau G. , Xi X. J. , Cheng X. , Wang S. H. , Tang Z. H. , Liu J. R.
Published: March 2007

Astrometric positions of the Neptunian Satellite Triton are given for the opposition of Neptune for the years 1996, 2003, 2005 and 2006. The 943 observed positions were obtained at the Cassegrain focus of a 156-cm reflector. In our reduction, the up-to-date catalogue of stars UCAC2 was chosen to ensure a proper astrometric calibration. Our observed positions are compared to theoretical positions provided from JPL and IMCCE ephemerides. The observed minus calculated residuals have s.d. values of the order of 0.04 arcsec.
Estimation of metabolic fluxes, expression levels and metabolite dynamics of a secondary metabolic pathway in potato using label pulse‐feeding experiments combined with kinetic network modelling and simulation
Authors: Heinzle Elmar , Matsuda Fumio , Miyagawa Hisashi , Wakasa Kyo , Nishioka Takaaki
Published: March 2007

In this paper we present a method that allows dynamic flux analysis without a priori kinetic knowledge. This method was developed and validated using the pulse‐feeding experimental data obtained in our previous study (Matsuda et al., 2005), in which incorporation of exogenously applied l‐phenylalanine‐d5 into seven phenylpropanoid metabolites in potato tubers was determined. After identification of the topology of the metabolic network of these biosynthetic pathways, the system was described by dynamic mass balances in combination with power‐law kinetics. After the first simulations, some reactions were removed from the network because they were not contributing significantly to network behaviour. As a next step, the exponents of the power‐law kinetics were identified and then kept at fixed values during further analysis. The model was tested for statistical reliability using Monte Carlo simulations. Most fluxes could be identified with high accuracy. The two test cases, control and after elicitation, were clearly distinguished, and with elicitation fluxes to N‐p‐coumaroyloctopamine (pCO) and N‐p‐coumaroyltyramine (pCT) increased significantly, whereas those for chlorogenic acid (CGA) and p‐coumaroylshikimate decreased significantly. According to the model, increases in the first two fluxes were caused by induction/derepression mechanisms. The decreases in the latter two fluxes were caused by decreased concentrations of their substrates, which in turn were caused by increased activity of the pCO‐ and pCT‐producing enzymes. Flux‐control analysis showed that, in most cases, flux control was changed after application of elicitor. Thus the results revealed potential targets for improving actions against tissue wounding and pathogen attack.
Newborn screening for mucopolysaccharidoses: opinions of patients and their families
Authors: Hayes IM , Collins V , Sahhar M , Wraith JE , Delatycki MB
Published: March 2007

We have conducted a study to assess the opinions of parents of individuals with mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) and adults with MPS regarding newborn screening (NBS) for this condition, as testing is now technically possible. A questionnaire including a number of hypothetical clinical scenarios about NBS for MPS was distributed to members of MPS support groups from United States and Australia. Questionnaires were returned by 249 members of the US (40% response) and Australian (38% response) support groups. Eleven respondents were adults with MPS and the rest were parents of individuals with MPS. Eighty‐six percent of respondents indicated that they would have wanted NBS for their own children. Ninety‐seven percent supported the use of NBS for MPS in situations where early treatment that favorably impacts on disease outcome is available, 87% supported NBS when a severe form of MPS was diagnosed, but no treatment is available that improves the long‐term outcome and 84% supported NBS for mild MPS where no disease‐modifying treatment is available. The most common reason cited in support of NBS was that NBS could avoid a delay in diagnosis and the accompanying distress that delayed diagnosis created. This study has identified strong support for the introduction of NBS for MPS from this group. Psychosocial benefits of screening may outweigh potential harms.
MEFV alterations and population genetics analysis in a large cohort of Greek patients with familial Mediterranean fever
Authors: Giaglis S , Papadopoulos V , Kambas K , Doumas M , Tsironidou V , Rafail S , Kartalis G , Speletas M , Ritis K
Published: March 2007

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is a disease characterized by recurrent, self‐limiting bouts of fever and serositis and caused by altered pyrin due to mutated MEFV gene. FMF is common in the Mediterranean Basin populations, although with varying genetic patterns. The spectrum and clinical significance of MEFV alterations in Greece has yet not been elucidated. The aim of this study was to analyze the spectrum of MEFV alterations in FMF patients and healthy individuals in Greece. A cohort of 152 Greek FMF patients along with 140 Greek healthy controls was enrolled. Non‐isotopic RNase cleavage assay (NIRCA) and sequencing allowed mutational and haplotypic analysis of the entire coding sequence of MEFV. The arlequin 2.0, dnasp 4.0 and phylip software were used for population genetics analysis. Among patients, 127 (83.6%) carried at least one known mutation. The most common mutations identified were M694V (38.1%), M680I (19.7%), V726A (12.2%), E148Q (10.9%) and E230K (6.1%). The total carrier rate among healthy individuals was 0.7%. The presence of R202Q homozygosity in 12 of the remaining 25 MEFV negative FMF patients might be considered as disease related in Greeks. Population genetics analysis revealed that Greeks rely closer to the eastern rather than western populations of the Mediterranean Basin.
Molecular analysis of glomerular diseases in renal biopsies
Authors: ESPOSITO Ciro , STRIKER Lilane J , Gary E ,   STRIKER FOR the MOLECULAR STUDY of KIDNEY BIOPSIES INTERNATIONAL STUDY GROUP>
Published: April 2007

Summary: The purpose of this study was to determine the pattern of gene expression of type IV collagen alpha chains in several chronic human glomerular diseases using micro dissected glomeruli and assessment of mRNA by competitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR). After showing that the level of a2 type IV collagen mRNA was elevated in sclerotic glomeruli isolated from nephrectomies, we undertook a preliminary cross‐sectional study of type IV collagen alpha chain mRNA in renal biopsies in two of the leading causes of glomerulosclerosis: (i) diabetic nephropathy; and (ii) membranous glomerulopathy. We found that glomerular type IV collagen mRNA levels alterations were disease‐specific. the relative levels of the individual α‐chains of type IV collagen depended on the anatomic site of the glomerular lesions. the α‐2IV/α‐3IV collagen mRNA ratio was high in diabetes mellitus, but not in membranous glomerulopathy. These data, coupled with that obtained in experimental animals, suggest that a defective basement collagen synthesis is associated with progressive glomerular scarring. If these conclusions are verified in studies of repeat biopsies, the risk of progressive glomerulosclerosis in individual patients could be estimated, leading to the means to assess therapeutic responses.
Steroid therapy in IgA nephropathy in Japan
Authors: KOYAMA Akio , KOBAYASHI Masaki , IGARASHI Masaya , NARITA Mitsuhara , TOJO Shizuo ,   THE RESEARCH GROUP of PROGRESSIVE RENAL DISEASE FROM SPECIALLY SELECTED DISEASES BY the MINISTRY of HEALTH and WELFARE, JAPAN
Published: April 2007

Summary: We performed prednisone (PSL) therapy which was done in the manner of a prospective multicentre paired controlled trial. We collected 196 patients with biopsy‐proven IgA nephropathy (IgA‐N). the patients were divided into prednisone group receiving prednisone (PSL group, n= 111) and antiplatelet group receiving anti‐platelet drugs only (AP group, n= 85). the mean follow‐up duration was 4.7 ± 2.5 years. We observed that PSL showed beneficial effects in maintaining renal function and decreasing proteinuria for the first 3 years. In stratified subgroups with proteinuria (UP>2 g/day) and with UP>2 g/day and creatinine clearance (Ccr)< = 70 mL/min, the renal death rate at the end of follow‐up in patients of PSL group showed a tendency to be less than that of AP group (P= 0.067, P=0.095, respectively) although the renal survival rate between both groups were not significantly different. We speculated that steroid therapy might be effective in IgA‐N patients with UP>2 g/day and Ccr< = 70 mL/min. Further trials should be carried out in a properly controlled, randomized, stratified manner with long‐term follow up.
John Jacob Abel reinterpreted: Prophet or fraud?
Authors: GEORGE CRP
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Commentators often portray John Jacob Abel (1857–1938) as the father of American pharmacology and the inventor of the artificial kidney machine. In this paper, I outline his career and examine the background to his experiments in ‘vividiffusion’ (dialysis in vivo) as a prelude to re‐examining the published details of his experiments. I then compare the text of his medical publications on the subject with contemporary reports that appeared in the lay press and with the data contained in his laboratory note‐books. I cite evidence that Abel's private aims differed markedly from his public claims, examine why he abandoned dialysis in favour of ‘plasmaphaeresis’ for the treatment of uraemia, and mention some unfortunate consequences of that change. Finally, I examine the background to Abel's explanation that the unavailability of hirudin caused him to discontinue dialysis experiments, and raise the possibility that this provided him with a convenient method of escape from a field that threatened his reputation. I conclude that Abel's experiments with dialysis in vivo were not designed to control renal failure, but rather to isolate new hormones from the blood.
Development of ethical concepts in dialysis: Seattle in the 1960s
Authors: BLAGG CR
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY:Maintenance hemodialysis for chronic renal failure first began in Seattle in 1960. Once proved successful, the community developed the first free‐standing out‐patient dialysis facility in 1962. Chronic renal failure, a previously fatal disease, was now treatable, but funding for this was extremely limited, and patient selection had to occur. Experience in Seattle over the next few years highlighted the ethical problems that still occur in health care because resources everywhere are limited. This article describes the issues and some of the contemporary reactions to them.
The history of vascular access
Authors: PAYNE John E , STEWART Glen , MEYER H Joe , GEORGE Charles RP
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Vascular access has been used medically for centuries. the history of access includes the ancient practise of venesection or phlebotomy, and its complications; recognition of the circulation of the blood; the first attempts at blood transfusion by Richard Lower; the description of traumatic A‐V fistulae by William Hunter; and the development of vascular surgery. After the introduction of haemodialysis, the cornerstone of vascular access remains the primary direct internal A‐V fistula as described by Brescia et al. in 1966. Modern vascular grafts achieve suitable access with increased rates of complications and failure; and, less than half the longevity of fistulae.
Some aspects of the history of early dialysis registries
Authors: DISNEY APS
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: This review of the early history of dialysis registries written 30 years later addresses the ideas and personalities behind their formation, the source of funds available for the task and the subsequent course of their development. As the role of such registries is being evaluated, a review of this nature is a timely reminder of the aspirations of those who created a unique database of value to clinicians, patients, government and the community. the challenge for today is as ever to avoid the errors of the past, to build on the successes and to practice evidence based medicine. the future role of Registries for renal failure treatment depends on the interest and influence of the clinicans (medical, nursing and others). to maintain the original raison d'être of Registries such as the European Dialysis and Transplant Association (EDTA), there must be involvement of active clinicians in the determination of the content of data collected, its distribution, and the interpretation of analyses.
A review of dialysis profiling
Authors: PARSONS Darren S , HARRIS David CH
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: The movement of water or other chemical species across the dialysis membrane can be controlled by altering the concentration of dialysate constituents or the hydrostatic pressure within the dialysis compartment. So‐called dialysis profiling is most commonly applied to dialysate sodium concentration or ultrafiltration rate in an attempt to reduce the frequency of intradialytic hypotension or ‘dysequilibrium’ symptoms. Such an approach can be applied to other dialysate constituents, for example potassium and bicarbonate. Increasingly complex dialysis machines allow these profiles to be preprogrammed according to several patterns. In recent years the use of on‐line monitoring systems has allowed a further refinement such that these profiles can be adjusted during dialysis. Despite the theoretical advantages of profiling, the benefits of such techniques have not been consistently demonstrated. This review examines profiling of sodium, ultrafiltration, potassium and bicarbonate, and the evidence for their use.
Tropical plant‐associated nephropathy
Authors: EIAM‐ONG Somchai , SITPRIJA Visith
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: In the tropical area, nephrotoxicity can be caused by certain plants or plant materials. These include djenkol bean, mushroom, Callilepis laureola, Semicarpus anacardium, Securidaca longipe dunculata and Vicis favus. Djenkol beans consumed by people in South‐east Asia can cause toxicity or djenkolism. Renal manifestrations of djenkolism include dysuria, hematuria, proteinuria, urolithiasis, and acute renal failure. Djenkolic acid in the bean can cause renal dysfunction by mechanical irritation of djenkolic acid crystals and by direct toxicity. Renal involvement in mushroom poisoning is generally caused by certain species of Amanita and Galerina. Amanita toxins produced by such mushrooms could exhibit their toxic effects on several metabolic pathways of all eukaryotic cells including hepatocytes and renal cells. Renal failure is severe with a high mortality rate. Phenolic compounds in the sap of Semecarpus anacrdium, the marking‐nut tree of India, can cause renal failure following prolonged exposure to the sap. Atractyloside, an alkaloid found in the tuber of Callilepis laureola, can cause hypoglycemia and nephrotoxicity. Gaultherin, an amorphous steroid glucoside found in Securidaca longipe dunculata, can cause extensive damage to the kidney. Divicine and isouramil found in Vicis favus, broad bean, can trigger hemolysis in certain subjects with G‐6 PD deficiency, resulting in reversible acute renal failure. Gossypol, the principal ingredient of cotton seed oil, could cause distal renal tubular acidosis.
Strategy for urinary protein analysis
Authors: WOO KT , LAU YK
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Recent studies have highlighted the intrinsic toxicity of filtered proteins and their contribution to deterioration of renal function. In‐depth analysis of proteinuria may assess the degree of glomerular and/or tubular involvement and help in the prognostication of an individual patient. One should consider not only the quantity but also the quality of the urinary protein. Apart from quantitating the total urinary protein, assessment of the quality of the protein may be achieved by performing sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) for an overview assessment follow by automated nephelometry or simple radial immunodiffusion measurement of specific proteins for calculating the selectivity index and detecting tubular dysfunction.
Interleukin‐10: Is it good or bad for the kidney?
Authors: CHADBAN Steven J , NIKOLIC‐PATERSON David J
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) is a cytokine which has been suggested as a possible immunosuppressive treatment for kidney disease. the ability of IL‐10 to suppress antigen presentation to T cells, inhibit the delayed‐type hypersensitivity reaction and to inhibit macrophage production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines provides a logical basis for its use in the treatment of kidney disease. With the exception of Th1‐mediated crescentic glomerulonephritis, however, IL‐10 treatment of experimental kidney disease has produced disappointing results largely due to its stimulatory effects upon the humoral immune response, macrophage Fc‐receptor expression and macrophage proliferation. Paradoxically, there is now evidence to suggest that endogenous production of IL‐10 within the kidney may actually contribute to kidney damage through stimulating mesangial proliferation, immune complex deposition and macrophage infiltration. We await the outcome of studies designed to block IL‐10 function in experimental disease models.
Osteocalcin as a biochemical marker of bone turnover
Authors: POLAK‐JONKISZ Dorota , ZWOLINSKA Danuta
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Osteocalcin is a calcium‐binding bone protein whose blood concentrations are correlated with bone synthesis and resorption. the level of blood osteocalcin is determined by several factors. Laboratory monitoring of blood osteocalcin is helpful in patient diagnosis and managment. This study presents the known biosynthesis of osteocalcin and its role as an index of bone turnover.
0.5 Tesla cine‐magnetic resonance angiography is a poor screening test for atheromatous renal artery stenosis in chronic renal failure
Authors: GOLDSMITH D , DONOHOE P , DOYLE T , KINGSWOOD JC , SHARPSTONE P
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: A prospective comparative study of 0.5 Tesla cine‐magnetic resonance arteriography (MRA) versus standard arteriography (SA) was performed in 42 patients with clinical suspicion of atheromatous renal artery stenosis (ARAS), all of whom had chronic renal failure (average creatinine for 42 patients was 269.2±103.4 μmol/L). MRA was performed on a Philips 0.5 Tesla T5 release III, (London, UK) using T1 gradient echo cine, and 3D phase contrast. SA was performed as an aortic flush, with or without selective renal studies, via the femoral artery. Intravenous digital subtraction angiography was performed (instead of a flush procedure) in two patients with severe femoral atheroma. One radiologist reported the MRA's, another reported the SA's; both were blinded to the results of other scans. MRA correctly identified the number of renal arteries in 31 of the 42 patients (75%); accessory arteries could not be visualized. Using SA as the gold standard‘, MRA had a sensitivity of 90% and a specificity of 54%, with regard to detection of significant (>50%) ARAS lesions. MRA had a negative predictive value of 70%, and a positive predictive value of 82%. MRA was well tolerated by all patients, oral sedation being needed for just three. We conclude that 0.5 Tesla MRA has only limited usefulness as a non‐invasive screening test for ARAS, demonstrating fair sensitivity, comparable to other screening methods, in the context of significant renal impairment. However, specificity was poor, due to seven false positives. Improving the signal to noise ratio by using signal‐enhancing media, or using a more powerful magnet, are likely to yield more accurate information.