bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postinfectious gastroparesis related to autonomic failure: a case report
Authors: Lobrano A. , Blanchard K. , Abell T.l. , Minocha A. , Boone W. , Wyatt‐ashmead J. , Fratkin J. , Subramony C. , Wee A. , di Nardo G. , Barbara G. , Stanghellini V. , de Giorgio R.
Published: January 2006

Abstract  Background and aim:  Severe dysautonomia may be secondary to viral infections, resulting in impaired autoimmune, cardiovascular, urinary and digestive dysfunction. Herein, we present a case of a 31‐year‐old white female patient who had severe gastroparesis related to autonomic failure following an episode of acute gastroenteritis. This seems to be the first report providing thorough assessment of the enteric and autonomic nervous system by analysis of full‐thickness small intestinal biopsies, cardiovagal testing and autopsy.

Hospital course:  This patient affected by a severe gastroparesis was treated with antiemetics, prokinetics, analgesics and gastric electrical stimulation to control symptoms. Nutritional support was made using jejunal feeding tube and, in the final stage of disease, with total parenteral nutrition. Autonomic studies revealed minimal heart rate variability and a disordered Valsalva manoeuvre although the enteric nervous system and the smooth muscle layer showed a normal appearance. Hospital courses were complicated by episodes of bacteraemia and fungemia. Serum antiphospholipid antibodies were noted but despite anticoagulation, she developed a pulmonary embolism and shortly thereafter the patient died. Autopsy revealed acute haemorrhagic Candida pneumonia with left main pulmonary artery thrombus. Sympathetic chain analysis revealed decreased myelinated axons with vacuolar degeneration and patchy inflammation consistent with Guillain‐Barre syndrome. The evaluation of the enteric nervous system in the stomach and small bowel revealed no evidence of enteric neuropathy or myopathy.

Conclusion:  A Guillain‐Barre‐like disease with gastroparesis following acute gastroenteritis is supported by physiological and autonomic studies with histological findings.
Sensitivity of Phytophthora infestans to flumorph: in vitro determination of baseline sensitivity and the risk of resistance
Authors: Yuan S. K. , Liu X. L. , Si N. G. , Dong J. , Gu B. G. , Jiang H.
Published: January 2006

The sensitivity of 127 Phytophthora infestans isolates to flumorph was determined in 2003 and 2004. The isolates originated from two geographical regions and showed similar levels of sensitivity in both years. Baseline sensitivities were distributed as a unimodal curve with EC50 values for growth of mycelia ranging from 0·1016 to 0·3228 µg mL−1, with a mean of 0·1813 (± 0·0405) µg mL−1. There was no cross‐resistance between flumorph and metalaxyl. Laboratory studies were conducted to evaluate the risk of P. infestans developing resistance to flumorph. Mutants resistant to metalaxyl or flumorph were obtained by treating mycelium of wild‐type isolates with ultraviolet radiation. Metalaxyl‐resistant mutants were obtained with a high frequency and exhibited resistance factor values (EC50 resistant/EC50 sensitive phenotypes) of more than 100, while flumorph‐resistant mutants were obtained at much lower frequencies and had very small resistance factors (1·5–3·2). There was cross‐resistance between flumorph and dimethomorph, but not with azoxystrobin or cymoxanil. Most flumorph‐resistant mutants showed decreases in hyphal growth in vitro and in sporulation both in vitro and on detached leaf tissues. These studies suggested that the risk of resistance developing was much lower for flumorph than metalaxyl. However, as P. infestans is a high‐risk pathogen, appropriate precautions against resistance development should be taken.
cGMP modulates gene transcription and cation transport in Arabidopsis roots
Authors: Maathuis Frans J. M.
Published: January 2006

The occurrence of the second messenger 3′,5′‐cyclic guanyl monophosphate (cGMP) has been shown in a number of plant species, including barley, tobacco and Arabidopsis. Physiological processes where cGMP signalling has been observed, or has been inferred, to play a role include chloroplast development, α‐amylase production in aleurone tissue, NO‐dependent expression of defence‐related genes and salt/osmotic stress. In most cases, it is unknown how cGMP exerts its effects and what the downstream targets are. A transcriptomics approach was therefore used to identify putative targets for cGMP signalling. Root exposure to 10 μm membrane permeable cGMP induced changes in abundance for many transcripts involved in metabolism, gene transcription, signalling and defence. In particular, monovalent cation transporters such as non‐selective ion channels and cation:proton antiporters were found to be affected in cGMP exposed roots. In addition, exposure to cGMP was found to modulate influx and efflux of the monovalent cations Na+ and K+.
Divergence of duplicated genes in maize: evolution of contrasting targeting information for enzymes in the porphyrin pathway
Authors: Williams Pascale , Hardeman Kristine , Fowler John , Rivin Carol
Published: January 2006

The divergence of sequence and expression pattern of duplicated genes provides a means for genetic innovation to occur without sacrificing an essential function. The cpx1 and cpx2 genes of maize are a singular example of duplicated genes that have diverged by deletion and creation of protein targeting information. The cpx genes encode coproporphyrinogen III oxidase (‘coprogen oxidase’), which catalyzes a step in the synthesis of chlorophyll and heme. In plants, this enzyme has been found exclusively in the plastids. The cpx1 and cpx2 genes encode almost identical, catalytically active enzymes with distinctive N‐terminal peptide sequences. The cpx1 gene encodes the expected plastid transit peptide, but this region is deleted from the cpx2 gene. While the 5′ regions of both messenger RNAs are highly similar, the cpx2 gene has an open‐reading frame that could encode a new targeting signal. GFP fused with CPX1 localized to the plastids. In contrast, the GFP fusion with CPX2 did not target plastids and appeared to localize to mitochondria. Both cpx genes are expressed ubiquitously but, based on mutant phenotype, they seem to have discrete biological roles. Seedlings homozygous for a null mutation in the cpx1 gene completely lack chlorophyll and develop necrotic lesions in the light. However, the mutant seedlings and callus cultures will grow in tissue culture in the dark, implying that they retain a capacity to produce heme. We discuss models for the evolution of the cpx genes and possible roles of mitochondrion‐localized coprogen oxidase activity in maize.
Observations on the potential of microwaves for weed control
Authors: SARTORATO I , ZANIN G , BALDOIN C , DE ZANCHE C
Published: January 2006

Field tests of a prototype microwave‐based weed killer machine were conducted onAbutilon theophrasti,Panicum miliaceum, lucerne and oilseed rape pure stands. The approach can be considered a thermal weed control method, the microwave radiation causing dielectric heating of plant tissue water that eventually kills the plant. The method could overcome the limitations of other thermal methods, such as fire risk with flaming or the heavy loads required for hot water treatments. Species were effectively controlled by microwave irradiation, but their sensitivity and the evolution of damage symptoms over time differed. Lucerne showed no sigmoidal response and was the least affected by the treatment, while a log‐logistic curve expressed the dose–response relationships of the other species quite well. The estimated microwave dose for a 90% dry weight reduction ranged from 1015 kJ m−2inA. theophrastito 3433 kJ m−2inP. miliaceum. Energy cost evaluation indicated that increased efficiency is required for this technique to compete with other thermal methods. Microwave efficiency could be increased by a flux configuration that minimizes soil penetration and maximizes absorption by plants, which, in turn, depends on plant growth form.
Effect of growth medium, Striga seed burial distance and depth on efficacy of Fusarium isolates to control Striga hermonthica in Burkina Faso
Authors: YONLI D , TRAORÉ H , HESS D E , SANKARA P , SÉRÉMÉ P
Published: January 2006

Striga hermonthica is a destructive parasite of cereal crops in the semi‐arid tropical zone. Two greenhouse experiments were conducted at Kamboinsé, Burkina Faso, to investigate the effect of inoculum substrate and location of Striga seeds on the ability of 14 indigenous Fusarium isolates to control the parasite. In Expt 1, Fusarium isolates reduced emerged Striga number, Striga vigour and dry biomass. As a result, sorghum dry biomass and grain yield were enhanced. Inoculum substrate did not influence the ability of Fusarium isolates to control Striga. In Expt 2, Fusarium isolates, substrate and their interaction significantly influenced germination of Striga seeds at both 35 and 50 days after sowing. Isolates grown on compost were more effective at reducing germination of Striga seeds than those grown on chopped sorghum straw. The per cent germination of seeds 50 days after sowing, buried at 5 cm depth, was significantly lower than that of seeds buried at 10 cm. At 10 cm depth, Fusarium isolates still reduced Striga seed germination with respect to the control; horizontal planting distance, 5 or 10 cm from sorghum hills, had no effect.
Progressive macular hypomelanosis in Singapore: a clinico‐pathological study
Authors: Kumarasinghe Sujith Prasad W. , Tan Suat Hoon , Thng Steven , Thamboo Thomas Paulraj , Liang Shen , Lee Yoke Sun
Published: January 2006

Introduction  Progressive macular hypomelanosis (PMH), a condition of uncertain etiology, is characterized by asymptomatic hypopigmented macules predominantly located on the trunk. To date, there are no reports from South‐East Asia concerning this condition. We sought to record the clinical features of PMH in Asian patients, identify etiologic factors, and study the structural and ultrastructural features of melanocytes in this disorder.

Methods  Patients who presented to the National Skin Center with acquired, hypopigmented macules on the trunk, without a history of inflammation or infection, were recruited. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), complete blood count, fasting blood glucose, liver function tests, skin scrapings for fungi, and skin biopsy specimens (from lesional and normal skin) were obtained. Biopsies were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Fontana Masson, an immunohistochemical panel for identification of melanocyte differentiation antibodies (HMB 45, Melan A, and S100) and CD 68. Electron microscopy (EM) was also performed. The patients were evaluated every 3 months.

Results  During a 9 month period, eight patients (all Chinese) presented with hypopigmented, ill‐defined, confluent macules involving the lower aspect of the trunk. There were four men and four women, and the mean age was 25.9 years (range 19–45 years). Skin scrapings were negative for fungi and laboratory tests were normal.

Microscopic evaluation of skin biopsy speciments showed reduced pigmentation of lesional as compared with normal appearing skin, but H&E‐stained sections revealed only minimal histologic differences between lesional and normal skin. EM demonstrated a statistically significant (P = 0.047, Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, Wilcoxon 95% CI 0.02–0.62) higher ratio of stage IV and late stage III (dark) melanosomes in normal vs. lesional skin.

Conclusions  PMH may occur among young adults in Singapore. Its etiology is uncertain. The melanin content of lesional skin appears to be less than that in normal sites. EM shows a higher ratio of immature melanosomes in lesional vs. normal skin.
Parallel responses of species and genetic diversity to El Niño Southern Oscillation‐induced environmental destruction
Authors: Cleary Daniel F. R. , Fauvelot Cécile , Genner Martin J. , Menken Steph B. J. , Mooers Arne Ø.
Published: January 2006

Species diversity within communities and genetic diversity within species are two fundamental levels of biodiversity. Positive relationships between species richness and within‐species genetic diversity have recently been documented across natural and semi‐natural habitat islands, leading Vellend to suggest a novel macro‐ecological pattern termed the species‐genetic diversity correlation. We tested whether this prediction holds for areas affected by recent habitat disturbance using butterfly communities in east Kalimantan, Indonesia. Here, we show that both strong spatial and temporal correlations exist between species and allelic richness across rainforest habitats affected by El Niño Southern Oscillation‐induced disturbance. Coupled with evidence that changes in species richness are a direct result of local extirpation and lower recruitment, these data suggest that forces governing variation at the two levels operate over parallel and short timescales, with implications for biodiversity recovery following disturbance. Remnant communities may be doubly affected, with reductions in species richness being associated with reductions in genetic diversity within remnant species.
Insect predators affect plant resistance via density‐ and trait‐mediated indirect interactions
Authors: Griffin Celine A. M. , Thaler Jennifer S.
Published: January 2006

Predators can affect herbivores both through direct consumption (density‐mediated interactions) and by changing behavioural, physiological or morphological attributes of the prey (trait‐mediated interactions). These effects on the herbivore can in turn affect the plant through density‐ and trait‐mediated indirect interactions (DMIIs and TMIIs). While the effects of DMIIs and TMIIs imposed by predators has been shown to influence plant density and plant communities, we know little about the effects on plant quality. In addition, the DMII and TMII components of the predator may influence each other so that the total effect of the predator on the plant is not simply the sum of the DMII and TMII. We examined DMIIs and TMIIs between a stinkbug predator and a caterpillar, and show how these interactions affect plant quality, as measured by damage, resistance to herbivores, and a defence chemical, peroxidase. We used novel methods to estimate the independent and non‐additive contribution of DMIIs and TMIIs to the plant phenotype. Both predator‐induced DMIIs and TMIIs caused decreases in the amount of caterpillar herbivory on plants; a strong non‐additive effect between the two resulted from redundancy in their effects. TMIIs initiated by the predator were primarily responsible for a decrease in induced plant resistance. However, DMIIs predominated for reducing the production of peroxidase. These data demonstrate how DMIIs and TMIIs initiated by predators cascade through tri‐trophic interactions to affect plant damage and induced resistance.
Evidence of occult dysautonomia in Fowler's syndrome: alteration of cardiovascular autonomic function tests in female patients presenting with urinary retention
Authors: AMARENCO GERARD , RAIBAUT PATRICK , ISMAEL SAMER SHEIKH , RENE‐CORAIL PATRICK , HAAB FRANCOIS
Published: January 2006

OBJECTIVE

To assess the hypothesis that an occult impairment of the autonomic system might represent one of the mechanisms of urinary disturbance in Fowler's syndrome (FS), in which the pathophysiology of urinary retention is the predominant feature.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We prospectively investigated 10 women (mean age 43.7 years) with FS, diagnosed by assessing both voiding‐phase dysfunction (complete or incomplete retention with a residual urine volume of >150 mL, and a maximum flow rate of <15 mL/s), abnormalities of striated urethral sphincter electromyography (decelerating bursts and complex repetitive discharges), the presence of polycystic ovaries and absence of any apparent usual causes (obstructive, neurological diseases). The women had a urodynamic investigation, electromyographic examination, cystoscopy, brain and spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cardiovascular autonomic function tests (CAFTs, i.e. heart rate variability to deep breathing, cold‐pressor test, Valsalva ratio, blood pressure response to standing, and sympathetic skin responses), for parasympathetic and sympathetic functions. Evidence of dysautonomia, as classically described, was defined by two or more positive CAFTs.

RESULTS

The mean duration of symptoms was 7.9 years; there was urinary retention in six patients (one complete and five incomplete) and the other four complained of straining to void, diminished stream and hesitancy. Five patients were using intermittent self‐catheterization. Six patients had two or more positive CAFTs and were considered to have dysautonomia. In all 10 women the clinical neurological and urological examinations were normal with no apparent clinical symptoms of dysautonomia (blurred vision, pupil abnormalities, clinical manifestations of postural hypotension, gastrointestinal symptoms). Brain and spinal cord MRI, cystoscopy, bladder and kidney ultrasonography, sacral‐evoked latencies and cortical‐evoked responses after pudendal nerve stimulation were normal.

CONCLUSION

There was an occult impairment of the autonomic system in women with FS; this condition might be a pure bladder expression of a generalized but occult dysautonomia, which in some cases might be diagnosed using CAFTs.
Venogenic erectile dysfunction in Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome
Authors: AGRAWAL VINEET , MINHAS SUKS , RALPH DAVID J.
Published: January 2006

OBJECTIVE

To report the management of erectile dysfunction (ED) secondary to Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome (KTS), a rare congenital vascular disease.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Three men (mean age 33 years) with vasogenic ED secondary to KTS underwent venous ligation surgery of the affected veins. These men had tried various treatments for their ED, including phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and intracavernosal injection therapy, with little success.

RESULTS

There was abnormal penile venous drainage in all three men, probably associated with congenital vascular malformation from KTS. After venous ligation the men were followed for 5 years and all reported good quality erections satisfactory for sexual intercourse.

CONCLUSION

ED in men with KTS may be due to venous drainage anomalies and if confirmed, venous ligation surgery should be performed as this gives the best chance of a complete resolution.
Prostate tissue and leukocyte levels of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in men with benign prostate hyperplasia or prostate cancer
Authors: CHRISTENSEN JEPPE HAGSTRUP , FABRIN KNUD , BORUP KIRSTEN , BARBER NEIL , POULSEN JOHAN
Published: January 2006

OBJECTIVE

To compare the levels of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in leukocytes and prostate tissue in men with prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), as dietary intake of n‐3 PUFAs has been linked to the risk of prostate cancer; the prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level was also compared to prostate tissue levels of n‐3 PUFAs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Prostate tissue was obtained and leukocytes isolated from 20 men with prostate cancer and 35 with BPH. The n‐3 PUFAs α‐linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were measured in prostate tissue and in peripheral blood leukocytes using gas chromatography. PSA levels were measured in all of the men.

RESULTS

There was a strong positive correlation between EPA and DHA in leukocytes and in prostate tissue (EPA: r = 0.80, DHA: r = 0.53, both P < 0.001) in all the men, whereas there was no association between the content of ALA in leukocytes and in prostate tissue (r = −0.15). Men with BPH had similar levels of ALA in leukocytes and in prostate tissue, but men with prostate cancer had more ALA in prostate tissue than in leukocytes. The PSA level was significantly positively correlated with ALA level in prostate tissue (r = 0.42, P < 0.01) but there was no significant correlation between PSA level and EPA and DHA levels. There were no significant correlations between PSA level and n‐3 PUFA levels in leukocytes.

CONCLUSION

Dietary intake of the marine n‐3 PUFAs reflected in EPA and DHA levels in leukocytes are also reflected in EPA and DHA levels in prostate tissue in men with and without prostate cancer. However, there is a discrepancy between the levels of ALA in leukocytes and in prostate tissue, with higher levels in men with prostate cancer. This is in accordance with the strong positive association between PSA and ALA levels in prostate tissue. This study therefore does not support the hypothesis that intake of marine n‐3 PUFAs might protect against prostate cancer, but lends support to the deleterious role of ALA in the development of prostate cancer.
Site of local anaesthesia in transrectal ultrasonography‐guided 12‐core prostate biopsy: does it make a difference?
Authors: PHILIP JOE , MCCABE JOHN E. , DUTTA ROY SUBHAJIT , SAMSUDIN AZIZAN , CAMPBELL IAIN M. , JAVLÉ PRADIP
Published: January 2006

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively compare the efficacy of bi‐basal vs bi‐apical periprostatic nerve block (PPNB) during 12‐core prostate biopsy guided by transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS), and to evaluate the pain experienced on inserting the probe compared to the biopsy procedure, as PPNB with lignocaine local anaesthesia has been used for over a decade for minimizing pain during prostatic biopsy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 143 men who were to have a TRUS‐guided prostate biopsy were systematically randomized to two groups, to receive PPNB at the apex or base. A 10‐cm visual analogue score was used to record the pain experienced during probe insertion, the biopsy and just before to leaving the department .

RESULTS

The mean pain score on biopsy in the apical group was similar to that of the basal group (apex 1.9, base 1.6, P = 0.36). Probe introduction produced a significantly higher pain score (probe 2.2, biopsy 1.7, P < 0.001) than at the biopsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who experienced greater pain with the introduction of the probe also reported more pain with the biopsy procedure. The site of local anaesthetic before prostatic biopsy showed no significant difference in pain scores. Older men tolerated the procedure better. Analgesia after PPNB at near either the apex or base appears equal, regardless of the site of injection. We suggest that topical perianal anaesthetic agents could significantly reduce not only pain perception, but also improve tolerance.
Genetic and environmental mediation of the prediction from preschool language and nonverbal ability to 7‐year reading
Authors: Hayiou‐Thomas Marianna E. , Harlaar Nicole , Dale Philip S. , Plomin Robert
Published: January 2006

We use a genetically sensitive design to examine the relationship between language and nonverbal ability at 4½ and reading skills at 7 years of age in a sample of more than 1,000 children participating in the Twins Early Development Study. We find that nonphonological as well as phonological measures of early language make significant contributions towards the prediction of reading at 7, and that nonverbal ability at 4½ is an equally strong predictor. With respect to aetiology, we find substantial genetic contributions towards the relationship between early language skills and reading at 7, as well as a trend towards shared environmental influences. The genetic continuity is not specific to the verbal domain, however, as we also find a substantial genetic relationship between nonverbal ability at 4½ and reading at 7.
Cognitive modelling and the behaviour genetics of reading
Authors: Castles Anne , Bates Timothy , Coltheart Max , Luciano Michelle , Martin Nicholas G.
Published: January 2006

While it is well known that reading is highly heritable, less has been understood about the bases of these genetic influences. In this paper, we review the research that we have been conducting in recent years to examine genetic and environmental influences on the particular reading processes specified in the dual‐route cognitive model of reading. We argue that a detailed understanding of the role of genetic factors in reading acquisition requires the delineation and measurement of precise phenotypes, derived from well‐articulated models of the reading process. We report evidence for independent genetic influences on the lexical and nonlexical reading processes represented in the dual‐route model, based on studies of children with particular subtypes of dyslexia, and on univariate and multivariate genetic modelling of reading performance in the normally reading population.
Genetic analysis of rice domestication syndrome with the wild annual species, Oryza nivara
Authors: Li Changbao , Zhou Ailing , Sang Tao
Published: January 2006

With a small and sequenced genome, rice provides an excellent system for studying the genetics of cereal domestication.

We conducted a quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis of key domestication traits using an F2 population derived from a cross between the cultivated rice, Oryza sativa, and the annual wild species, O. nivara.

We found that the QTL of large phenotypic effects were targeted by domestication selection for effective harvest and planting, including a reduction in seed shattering and seed dormancy and the synchronization of seed maturation. Selection for higher yield was probably responsible for the fixation of mutations at a cluster of QTL on chromosome 7 and a few other chromosomal locations that could have substantially improved plant architecture and panicle structure, resulting in fewer erect tillers and longer and more highly branched panicles in cultivated rice.

In comparison with the wild perennial species, O. rufipogon, rice domestication from O. nivara would have involved QTL with a greater degree of chromosomal co‐localization and required little genetic change associated with life history or mating system transitions. The genetic analyses of domestication traits with both wild relatives will open opportunities for the improvement of rice cultivars utilizing natural germplasm.
Nitric oxide down‐regulates caveolin‐1 expression in rat brains during focal cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury
Authors: Shen Jiangang , Ma Stephanie , Chan Puishan , Lee Waisin , Fung Peter C. W. , Cheung Raymond T. F. , Tong Yao , Liu Ke Jian
Published: January 2006

As a signalling molecule of the integral membrane protein family, caveolin participates in cellular signal transduction via interaction with other signalling molecules. The nature of interaction between nitric oxide (NO) and caveolin in the brain, however, remains largely unknown. In this study we investigated the role(s) of NO in regulating caveolin‐1 expression in rat ischemic brains with middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Exposure to 1 h ischemia induced the increases in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and NO concentration with concurrent down‐regulation of caveolin‐1 expression in the ischemic core of rat brains. Subsequent 24 h or more reperfusion time led to an increase in inducible NOS (iNOS) expression and NO production, as well as a decline of caveolin‐1 protein at the core and penumbra of the ischemic brain. Afterwards, NOS inhibitors and an NO donor were utilized to clarify the link between NO production and caveolin‐1 expression in the rats with 1 h ischemia plus 24 h reperfusion. NG‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME, a non‐selective NOS inhibitor), N6‐(1‐iminoethyl)‐lysine (NIL, an iNOS inhibitor), and 7‐nitroindazole (7‐NI, a nNOS inhibitor) prevented the loss of caveolin‐1 in the core and penumbra of the ischemic brain, whereas l‐N5‐(1‐iminoethyl)‐ornithine (L‐NIO, an endothelial NOS inhibitor) showed less effect than the other NOS inhibitors. S‐Nitroso‐N‐acetylpenicillamine (SNAP, a NO donor) down‐regulated the expression of caveolin‐1 protein in normal and ischemic brains. These results, when taken together, suggest that NO modulates the expression of caveolin‐1 in the brain and that the loss of caveolin‐1 is associated with NO production in the ischemic brain.
Intrinsic and extrinsic erythropoietin enhances neuroprotection against ischemia and reperfusion injury in vitro
Authors: Liu Ruiqin , Suzuki Asuka , Guo Zhiwei , Mizuno Yoshikuni , Urabe Takao
Published: January 2006

This study was designed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of intrinsic and extrinsic erythropoietin (EPO) against hypoxia/ischemia, and determine the optimal time‐window with respect to the EPO‐induced neuroprotection. Experiments were conducted using primary mixed neuronal/astrocytic cultures and neuron‐rich cultures. Hypoxia (2%) induces hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) activity followed by strong EPO expression in mixed cultures and weak expression in neuron‐rich cultures as documented by both western blot and RT–PCR. Immunoreactive EPO was strongly detected in astrocytes, whereas EPOR was only detected in neurons. Neurons were significantly damaged in neuron‐rich cultures but were distinctly rescued in mixed cultures. Application of recombinant human EPO (rhEPO) (0.1 U/mL) within 6 h before or after hypoxia significantly increased neuronal survival compared with no rhEPO treatment. Application of rhEPO after onset of reoxygenation achieved the maximal neuronal protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury (6 h hypoxia followed 24 h reoxygenation). Our results indicate that HIF‐1α induces EPO gene released by astrocytes and acts as an essential mediator of neuroprotection, prove the protective role of intrinsic astrocytic‐neuronal signaling pathway in hypoxic/ischemic injury and demonstrate an optimal therapeutic time‐window of extrinsic rhEPO in ischemia/reperfusion injury in vitro. The results point to the potential beneficial effects of HIF‐1α and EPO for the possible treatment of stroke.
Wild‐type huntingtin protects neurons from excitotoxicity
Authors: Leavitt Blair R. , van Raamsdonk Jeremy M. , Shehadeh Jacqueline , Fernandes Herman , Murphy Zoe , Graham Rona K. , Wellington Cheryl L. , Lynn A. Raymond  , Hayden Michael R.
Published: January 2006

Huntingtin is a caspase substrate, and loss of normal huntingtin function resulting from caspase‐mediated proteolysis may play a role in the pathogenesis of Huntington disease. Here we tested the hypothesis that increasing huntingtin levels protect striatal neurons from NMDA receptor‐mediated excitotoxicity. Cultured striatal neurons from yeast artificial chromosome (YAC)18 transgenic mice over‐expressing full‐length wild‐type huntingtin were dramatically protected from apoptosis and caspase‐3 activation compared with cultured striatal neurons from non‐transgenic FVB/N littermates and YAC72 mice expressing mutant human huntingtin. NMDA receptor activation induced by intrastriatal injection of quinolinic acid initiated a form of apoptotic neurodegeneration within the striatum of mice that was associated with caspase‐3 cleavage of huntingtin in neurons and astrocytes, decreased levels of full‐length huntingtin, and the generation of a specific N‐terminal caspase cleavage product of huntingtin. In vivo, over‐expression of wild‐type huntingtin in YAC18 transgenic mice conferred significant protection against NMDA receptor‐mediated apoptotic neurodegeneration. These data provide in vitro and in vivo evidence that huntingtin may regulate the balance between neuronal survival and death following acute excitotoxic stress, and that the levels of huntingtin may modulate neuronal sensitivity to excitotoxic neurodegeneration. We suggest that further study of huntingtin's anti‐apoptotic function will contribute to our understanding of the pathogenesis of Huntingdon's disease and provide insights into the selective vulnerability of striatal neurons to excitotoxic cell death.
Copper (II) ions potently inhibit purified PrPres amplification
Authors: Orem Nicholas R. , Geoghegan James C. , Deleault Nathan R. , Kascsak Richard , Supattapone Surachai
Published: January 2006

The structural conversion of a host protein, PrPC, into a protease‐resistant isoform, PrPres, is the central event in the pathogenesis of infectious prion diseases. Purification of native PrPC molecules from hamster brain by either cation exchange or immobilized chelator chromatographic resins yielded preparations that supported efficient amplification of scrapie‐induced PrPres in vitro. Using these purified preparations, we determined that in vitro PrPres amplification was inhibited by CuCl2 and ZnCl2 at IC50 concentrations of ∼400 nm and 10 μm, respectively. In contrast, 100 μm MnCl2 did not directly inhibit PrPres amplification or block Cu2+‐mediated inhibition. Additionally, the inhibition of PrPres amplification by Cu2+ ions could be reversed by addition of either neocuproine or imidazole. Cu2+ inhibited PrPres amplification in both the presence and absence of stimulatory polyanion molecules. These biochemical findings support the hypothesis that Cu2+ ions might regulate the pathogenesis of prion diseases in vivo.
Ectopic expression of tyrosine hydroxylase in the pigmented epithelium rescues the retinal abnormalities and visual function common in albinos in the absence of melanin
Authors: Lavado Alfonso , Jeffery Glen , Tovar Victoria , de la Villa Pedro , Montoliu Lluís
Published: January 2006

Albino mammals have profound retinal abnormalities, including photoreceptor deficits and misrouted hemispheric pathways into the brain, demonstrating that melanin or its precursors are required for normal retinal development. Tyrosinase, the primary enzyme in melanin synthesis commonly mutated in albinism, oxidizes l‐tyrosine to l‐dopaquinone using l‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (L‐DOPA) as an intermediate product. L‐DOPA is known to signal cell cycle exit during retinal development and plays an important role in the regulation of retinal development. Here, we have mimicked L‐DOPA production by ectopically expressing tyrosine hydroxylase in mouse albino retinal pigment epithelium cells. Tyrosine hydroxylase can only oxidize l‐tyrosine to L‐DOPA without further progression towards melanin. The resulting transgenic animals remain phenotypically albino, but their visual abnormalities are corrected, with normal photoreceptor numbers and hemispheric pathways and improved visual function, assessed by an increase of spatial acuity. Our results demonstrate definitively that only early melanin precursors, L‐DOPA or its metabolic derivatives, are vital in the appropriate development of mammalian retinae. They further highlight the value of substituting independent but biochemically related enzymes to overcome developmental abnormalities.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite markers for Alternaria alternata
Authors: TRAN‐DINH NAI , HOCKING AILSA
Published: January 2006

Alternaria alternata is of major significance as a food and feed contaminant and is able to produce a range of mycotoxins that may elicit adverse effects in both animals and humans. We describe the isolation and characterization of five microsatellite markers for studying A. alternata. Marker polymorphism was screened in 64 isolates of A. alternata. The number of alleles per locus ranged from eight to 24, and allelic diversity ranged from 0.425 to 0.882. These markers will be useful in the study of relationships and population genetics amongst isolates of A. alternata.
Ethical Issues in Dialysis Aaron SpitalSeries Editor: Soliciting Kidneys on Web Sites: Is it Fair?
Authors: Wright Linda , Campbell Michael
Published: January 2006

The Internet serves as a meeting place where people in need of kidney transplants can find strangers willing to donate. While Good Samaritan donors located via the Internet increase the number of kidneys available for transplantationthey also raise ethical issues. This practice alters the pattern for distributing kidneys from unrelated living donors and raises questions of justice in the allocation of organs. It is unclear if commercial forces are at play in the arrangements made between potential donors and recipients via the Internet. While it is unfair that some recipients do not have suitablewilling living donorsWeb sites help to balance the inequity by increasing the opportunity to find a living donor; they also benefit other potential recipients by reducing the waiting list. Howeveralthough these Web sites are probably here to stayInternet donor–recipient matches can have negative consequences that we need to minimize. Suggested strategies include regulatedmonitored Web sites and the development of more anonymous organ donor programs.
Vascular Calcifications in Uremia: Old Concepts and New Insights
Authors: Derici Ulver , El Nahas A. Meguid
Published: January 2006

The annual mortality rate in uremic patientscorrected for agesexand raceis significantly higher than in the general population. This is primarily due to cardiovascular events. Vascular calcifications play a vital role in the development of cardiovascular morbidity and subsequent increased mortality. Vascular calcification affects both vascular intima and media layers and its mechanism remains poorly understood. Over the last few years it has been shown thatin addition to traditional cardiovascular risk factorsdisturbances in mineral metabolism in the uremic milieucalcium‐containing phosphate bindersand vitamin D treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism may contribute to the pathogenesis of vascular calcifications. Other uremia‐related risk factors (e.g.increased oxidized low‐density lipoprotein cholesteroluremic toxinsincreased oxidative stressdialysis and dialysate‐related factorshemodynamic overloadhyperhomocysteinemia) may also play a role. In uremic patientsapart from these facilitating factorsdecreased levels of endogenous calcification inhibitors such as fetuin‐Amatrix Gla proteinosteoprotegerinand osteopontin have also been associated with increased calcium‐phosphate precipitation in extraskeletal tissues. Finallyvascular calcification is the outcome of the active and dynamic balance of procalcifying and anticalcifying influences. For the prevention and treatment of vascular calcificationsit is essential to avoid treatment modalities that lead to calcium overloadachieve good metabolic controland optimize dialysis.
Pulse High‐Volume Hemofiltration in Critically Ill Patients: A New Approach for Patients with Septic Shock
Authors: Ratanarat Ranistha , Brendolan Alessandra , Ricci Zaccaria , Salvatori Gabriella , Nalesso Federico , de Cal Massimo , Cazzavillan Stefania , Petras Dimitris , Bonello Monica , Bordoni Valeria , Cruz Dinna , Techawathanawanna North , Ronco Claudio
Published: January 2006

Mortality rates in septic shock remain unacceptably high despite advances in our understanding of the syndrome and its treatment. Humoral factors are increasingly recognized to participate in the pathogenesis of septic shockgiving a biological rationale to therapies that might remove varied and potentially dangerous humoral mediators. While plasma water exchange in the form of hemofiltration can remove circulating cytokines in septic patientsthe procedureas routinely performeddoes not have a substantial impact on their plasma levels. More intensive plasma water exchangeas high‐volume hemofiltration (HVHF)can reduce levels of these mediators and potentially improve clinical outcomes. Howeverthere are concerns about the feasibility and costs of HVHF as a continuous modality—very high volumes are difficult to maintain over 24 hours and solute kinetics are not optimized by this regimen. We propose pulse HVHF (PHVHF)—HVHF of 85 ml/kg/hr for 6–8 hours followed by continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) of 35 ml/kg/hr for 16–18 hours—as a new method to combine the advantages of HVHFimprove solute kineticsand minimize logistic problems. We treated 15 critically ill patients with severe sepsis and septic shock using daily PHVHF in order to evaluate the feasibility of the techniqueits effects on hemodynamicsand the impact of the treatment on pathologic apoptosis in sepsis. Hemodynamic improvements were obtained after 6 hours of PHVHF and were maintained subsequently by standard CVVHas demonstrated by the reduction in norepinephrine dose. PHVHFbut not CVVHsignificantly reduces apoptotic plasma activity within 1 hour and the pattern was maintained in the following hours. PHVHF appears to be a feasible modality that may provide the same or greater benefits as HVHFwhile reducing the workload and cost.
Dialysis Rounds A Dialysis Case Presentation and Discussion Edited by Roger A. Rodby: Severe Lactic Acidosis Treated with Prolonged Hemodialysis: Recovery After Massive Overdoses of Metformin
Authors: Guo Peter Y. F. , Storsley Leroy J. , Finkle S. Neil
Published: January 2006

We report two cases of severe lactic acidosis due to massive metformin ingestion. The first case was a 37‐year‐old man who was discovered several hours after ingesting 45 g of metformin. He had severe lactic acidosis (blood pH 6.81bicarbonate 4 mEq/Llactate 25.7 mEq/L). Despite intravenous bicarbonate therapyhe decompensated and was placed on a combination of hemodialysis and charcoal hemoperfusion for a continuous time of 25 hours. His hospital course was complicated by acute renal failure requiring a period of intermittent hemodialysis. He has since made a complete recovery. The second case was a 53‐year‐old man who ingested 50 g of metformin. He also presented with severe lactic acidosis (blood pH 6.85bicarbonate 3 mEq/L and lactate 28.4 mEq/L) and deteriorated despite intravenous bicarbonate therapy. He was placed on hemodialysis as a continuous therapy for 21 hours. His hospital course was complicated by acute renal failure requiring a period of intermittent hemodialysis. He has subsequently made a complete recovery. Metformin‐associated lactic acidosis carries a high mortality rate. Prolonged hemodialysis should be considered as an early treatment option in these cases.
Similar attractiveness of maize volatiles induced by Helicoverpa armigera and Pseudaletia separata to the generalist parasitoid Campoletis chlorideae
Authors: Yan Zeng‐Guang , Wang Chen‐Zhu
Published: January 2006

Campoletis chlorideae Uchida (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), a major larval endoparasitoid of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), also attacks many other noctuid caterpillars. We investigated the attractiveness of H. armigera‐ and Pseudaletia separata (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)‐infested maize [Zea mays L. (Poaceae)] plants to C. chlorideae, and analyzed the volatiles emitted from infested plants and undamaged plants. Considering the reported specific induction of plant volatiles by elicitors in the caterpillar regurgitant, we also tested the response of the parasitoid to mechanically damaged plants treated with caterpillar regurgitant or water and measured the volatiles released by these plants. In wind‐tunnel bioassays, C. chlorideae was strongly attracted to herbivore‐induced maize volatiles. Mechanically damaged plants, whether they were treated with caterpillar regurgitant or water, were more attractive to the parasitoid than undamaged plants. The parasitoid did not distinguish between maize seedlings infested by the two noctuid insects, nor did they show a difference in attraction to mechanically damaged plants treated with caterpillar regurgitant or water. Coupled gas chromatography–mass spectrometer (GC‐MS) analysis revealed that 15 compounds were commonly emitted by herbivore‐infested and mechanically damaged maize plants, whereas only two compounds were released in minor amounts from undamaged plants. Infestation by H. armigera specifically induced four terpenoids, β‐pinene, β‐myrcene, D‐limonene, and (E)‐nerolidol, which were not induced by infestation of P. separata and mechanical damage, plus caterpillar regurgitant or water. Two compounds, geranyl acetate and β‐sesquiphellandrene, were also induced by the infestation of H. armigera, but not by the infestation of P. separata. All treated maize plants released volatiles in significantly larger total amounts than did undamaged plants. Maize plants infested by H. armigera emitted greater amounts of volatiles than plants infested by P. separata. The treatment with caterpillar regurgitant resulted in larger amounts of volatile emission than the treatment with water did in mechanically damaged plants. The amounts of emissions of individual compounds were also different between differently treated plants.
Confirmation of the existence of alloparasitoids in nature – host relationships of an Australian Coccophagus species that parasitizes mealy bugs
Authors: Walter G.H. , Abeeluck D.
Published: January 2006

Heteronomous hyperparasitoids are parasitic wasps with sex‐related host relationships that are unique to a group of genera in the chalcidoid family Aphelinidae. Females are primary parasitoids of various sedentary bugs (mainly, scale insects, mealy bugs, and whiteflies). Males, in contrast, are hyperparasitic, and they frequently develop at the expense of female conspecifics. Alloparasitoids constitute a special category of heteronomous hyperparasitoids, for their males never develop through female conspecifics. The existence of alloparasitic host relationships and the utility of the category ‘alloparasitoid’ have both been questioned. Here, we present results that confirm the existence of the alloparasitic way of life among heteronomous aphelinids. We investigated an undescribed species of Coccophagus (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), an Australian parasitoid that attacks the introduced lantana mealy bug, Phenacoccus parvus Morrison (Homoptera: Pseudococcidae), in Queensland. A year‐long field survey regularly returned large numbers of female Coccophagus spec. near gurneyi individuals from P. parvus (total n = 4212), but only few males (n = 11). Males emerged from samples only when the encyrtid parasitoid Anagyrus diversicornis (Howard) (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) was present in samples in relatively high numbers. Laboratory oviposition tests confirmed that A. diversicornis is a male host and showed that males do not develop at the expense of conspecific females. Other studies show that males are attracted in numbers to virgin females held in cages above mealy bug‐infested Lantana montevidensis (Spreng.) Briq. (Verbenaceae) in the field, demonstrating that they are common in the population as a whole. This confirms that the males need hosts other than conspecific females and that their usual hosts are present outside of the lantana/P. parvus system. The implications of these results for developing a realistic classification of heteronomous host relationships are discussed.
Modernist Studies and the Bildungsroman: A Historical Survey of Critical Trends
Authors: Boes Tobias
Published: January 2006

The term Bildungsroman, or “novel of formation,” remains at once one of the most vexing, but also one of the most fruitful contributions that German letters have made to the international vocabulary of literary studies. This article presents a survey of critical trends in Bildungsroman studies, from the early twentieth century to the present, but with an emphasis on scholarship from the last decade. Special attention is paid to work done in modernist studies. The article is divided into three parts. The first presents a broad historical overview and explores the problems raised by diverging critical traditions in Germany and the English‐speaking world. The second focuses on the rise of feminist and historicist modes of inquiry between 1980 and 1995. The final part explores some of the most recent contributions to the genre, with special emphasis on colonial and post‐colonial studies.