bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Variation and Variation in Aggressiveness to Native and Exotic Hosts Among Brazilian Populations of Ceratocystis fimbriata
Authors: Harrington Thomas C. , Thorpe Daniel J. , Alfenas Acelino C.
Published: December 2010

Ceratocystis fimbriata is a complex of many species that cause wilt and cankers on woody plants and rot of storage roots or corms of many economically important crops worldwide. In Brazil, C. fimbriata infects different cultivated crop plants that are not native to Brazil, including Gmelina arborea, Eucalyptus spp., Mangifera indica (mango), Ficus carica (fig), and Colocasia esculenta (inhame). Phylogenetic analyses and inoculation studies were performed to test the hypothesis that there are host-specialized lineages of C. fimbriata in Brazil. The internal transcribed spacer region ribosomal DNA sequences varied greatly but there was little resolution of lineages based on these sequences. A portion of the MAT1-2 mating type gene showed less variation, and this variation corresponded more closely with host of origin. However, mango isolates were found scattered throughout the tree. Inoculation experiments on the five exotic hosts showed substantial variation in aggressiveness within and among pathogen populations. Native hosts from the same families as the exotic hosts tended to be less susceptible than the cultivated hosts, but there was little correlation between aggressiveness to the cultivated and native hosts of the same family. Cultivation and vegetative propagation of exotic crops may select for strains that are particularly aggressive on those crops.
Phosphoinositides Regulate Clathrin-Dependent Endocytosis at the Tip of Pollen Tubes inArabidopsisand Tobacco
Authors: Zhao Yan , Yan An , Feijó José A. , Furutani Masahiro , Takenawa Tadaomi , Hwang Inhwan , Fu Ying , Yang Zhenbiao
Published: December 2010

Using the tip-growing pollen tube of Arabidopsis thaliana and Nicotiana tabacum as a model to investigate endocytosis mechanisms, we show that phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate 5-kinase 6 (PIP5K6) regulates clathrin-dependent endocytosis in pollen tubes. Green fluorescent protein–tagged PIP5K6 was preferentially localized to the subapical plasma membrane (PM) in pollen tubes where it apparently converts phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PI4P) to phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2]. RNA interference–induced suppression of PIP5K6 expression impaired tip growth and inhibited clathrin-dependent endocytosis in pollen tubes. By contrast, PIP5K6 overexpression induced massive aggregation of the PM in pollen tube tips. This PM abnormality was apparently due to excessive clathrin-dependent membrane invagination because this defect was suppressed by the expression of a dominant-negative mutant of clathrin heavy chain. These results support a role for PI(4,5)P2 in promoting early stages of clathrin-dependent endocytosis (i.e., membrane invagination). Interestingly, the PIP5K6 overexpression-induced PM abnormality was partially suppressed not only by the overexpression of PLC2, which breaks down PI(4,5)P2, but also by that of PI4Kβ1, which increases the pool of PI4P. Based on these observations, we propose that a proper balance between PI4P and PI(4,5)P2 is required for clathrin-dependent endocytosis in the tip of pollen tubes.
Identification and Characterization of Nuclear Pore Complex Components inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Tamura Kentaro , Fukao Yoichiro , Iwamoto Masaaki , Haraguchi Tokuko , Hara-Nishimura Ikuko
Published: December 2010

The nuclear pore complex (NPC) facilitates nucleocytoplasmic transport, a crucial process for various cellular activities. The NPC comprises ~30 nucleoporins and is well characterized in vertebrates and yeast. However, only eight plant nucleoporins have been identified, and little information is available about the complete molecular structure of plant NPCs. In this study, an interactive proteomic approach was used to identify Arabidopsis thaliana nucleoporins. A series of five cycles of interactive proteomic analysis was performed using green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged nucleoporins. The identified nucleoporins were then cloned and subcellular localization analyses were performed. We found that the plant NPC contains at least 30 nucleoporins, 22 of which had not been previously annotated. Surprisingly, plant nucleoporins shared a similar domain organization to their vertebrate (human) and yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) counterparts. Moreover, the plant nucleoporins exhibited higher sequence homology to vertebrate nucleoporins than to yeast nucleoporins. Plant NPCs lacked seven components (NUCLEOPORIN358 [Nup358], Nup188, Nup153, Nup45, Nup37, NUCLEAR DIVISION CYCLE1, and PORE MEMBRANE PROTEIN OF 121 kD) that were present in vertebrate NPCs. However, plants possessed a nucleoporin, Nup136/Nup1, that contained Phe-Gly repeats, and sequence analysis failed to identify a vertebrate homolog for this protein. Interestingly, Nup136-GFP showed greater mobility on the nuclear envelope than did other nucleoporins, and a Nup136/Nup1 deficiency caused various defects in plant development. These findings provide valuable new information about plant NPC structure and function.
Weakly acidic refluxes have a major role in the pathogenesis of proton pump inhibitor‐resistant reflux oesophagitis
Authors: Frazzoni M. , Conigliaro R. , Melotti G.
Published: December 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2011; 33: 601–606

Background  In patients with heartburn that persists despite proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy, reflux oesophagitis is found rarely, and its pathogenesis has been scarcely studied.

Aim  To assess reflux parameters by impedance–pH monitoring in PPI‐resistant reflux oesophagitis.

Methods  Impedance–pH monitoring was performed on PPI therapy in patients with symptomatic reflux oesophagitis detected despite standard or high‐dose PPI therapy of at least 8‐week duration.

Results  Twenty patients, ten on once daily and ten on twice daily PPI regimens, were studied. The gastric acid exposure time (per cent time pH <4) ranged from 10% to 81% and was >30% in 70% of cases, but the oesophageal acid exposure time (per cent time pH <4) was abnormal in 20% of patients only. The number of acid, weakly acidic and weakly alkaline refluxes was abnormal in 25%, 100% and 15% of patients, respectively.

Conclusions  Weakly acidic refluxes were above the normal range in all cases, whereas acid reflux parameters and weakly alkaline refluxes were normal in the vast majority of cases. Gastric acid secretion, with consequent intra‐gastric pepsins activation, persists despite ongoing PPI therapy and activated pepsins may well be present in weakly acidic refluxes. As activated pepsins maintain their proteolytic activity in a weakly acidic environment, they may be responsible for mucosal damage. We conclude that weakly acidic refluxes have a major role in the pathogenesis of PPI‐resistant reflux oesophagitis. Therapeutic interventions in patients with PPI‐resistant reflux oesophagitis should be tailored on the basis of impedance–pH‐monitoring results.
Probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics: a hope or hype in allergy?
Authors: Kalliomäki M.
Published: December 2010

Cite this as: M. Kalliomäki, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 694–696.
Regulation of allergic inflammatory responses by inhibitory receptors
Authors: Shik D. , Munitz A.
Published: December 2010

An intricate network of activation and inhibitory signals tightly regulates immune responses. To date, multiple activation receptors have been described. These include receptors that mediate cellular functions such as adhesion, chemotaxis, cytokine signalling, mediator release, survival and phagocytosis. In contrast to these activation pathways, an opposing and suppressive receptor system has evolved. These receptors can override the signals elicited by the activation pathways and are broadly termed inhibitory receptors. Inhibitory receptors share unique intracellular signalling motifs and have key roles in various cellular and pathological conditions. Therefore, such receptors are potential targets for future therapeutics. In this review, we will discuss the structure and function of inhibitory receptors. In particular, we will focus on the expression and function of inhibitory receptors on mast cells and eosinophils and illustrate strategies for their inhibition in the settings of allergic inflammation.

Cite this as: D. Shik and A. Munitz, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 700–709.
Circulating endothelial‐coagulative activation markers after smoking cessation: a 12‐month observational study
Authors: Caponnetto Pasquale , Russo Cristina , Di Maria Annalisa , Morjaria Jaymin B. , Barton Sheila , Guarino Francesca , Basile Elisa , Proiti Maria , Bertino Gaetano , Cacciola Rossella R. , Polosa Riccardo
Published: December 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2011; 41 (6): 616–626

Background  Cigarette smoking is associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Exposure to cigarette smoke can cause endothelial dysfunction with impaired endothelium‐dependent vasodilation and ‘endothelial activation’, which predispose to atherothrombosis. The effects of continued smoking and smoking cessation on the level of endothelial, platelet and clotting activation have not been described previously. Here, we prospectively monitored changes in circulating endothelial‐coagulative activation markers in smokers undertaking smoking cessation.

Method  This 12‐month prospective study of 174 smokers with no commonly acquired atherothrombotic risk factors underwent an intensive smoking‐cessation programme investigating the effect of quitting on circulating levels of von Willebrand’s Factor Antigen (vWF:Ag), soluble Thrombomodulin (sTM), d‐Dimer (d‐D), prothrombin fragment F1 + 2 (F1 + 2), platelet factor‐4 (PF4) and β‐Thromboglobulin (β‐TG). Blood samples and study measures were collected and compared at baseline and at 2, 6 and 12 months after smoking cessation from quitters and relapsers’.

Results  No significant differences in demographic or laboratory parameters at baseline were observed between the study groups. Significant changes in von Willebrand’s Factor activity were observed at 2 months after smoking cessation, with levels decreasing from 141·8% to 113·6%. Substantial modifications in d‐Dimer, prothrombin fragment F1 + 2, platelet factor‐4 and β‐thromboglobulin concentrations were observed only at 6 and 12 months after smoking cessation. Positive associations between baseline levels of these biomarkers and number of pack per years have been demonstrated.

Conclusions  Chronic exposure to cigarette smoke sustains the activation of the endothelial‐coagulative system and abstinence may result in the improvement of several endothelial‐coagulative abnormalities in regular smokers. This may translate into an overall decline in cardiovascular risk.
Randomized placebo controlled trial of furosemide on subjective perception of dyspnoea in patients with pulmonary oedema because of hypertensive crisis
Authors: Holzer‐Richling Nina , Holzer Michael , Herkner Harald , Riedmüller Eva , Havel Christof , Kaff Alfred , Malzer Reinhard , Schreiber Wolfgang
Published: December 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2011; 41 (6): 627–634

Background  To compare the administration of furosemide with placebo on the subjective perception of dyspnoea in patients with acute pulmonary oedema because of hypertensive crisis.

Design  Randomized, controlled and double‐blinded clinical trial. Setting: Municipal emergency medical service system and university‐based emergency department. Participants: Fifty‐nine patients with pulmonary oedema because of hypertensive crisis. Interventions: Additional to administration of oxygen, morphine‐hydrochloride and urapidil until the systolic blood pressure was below 160 mmHg, the patients were randomized to receive furosemide 80 mg IV bolus (furosemide group) or saline placebo (placebo group). Main outcome measures: The primary outcome was the subjective perception of dyspnoea as measured with a modified BORG scale at one hour after randomization. Secondary outcome parameters were the subjective perception of dyspnoea of patients as measured with a modified BORG scale and a visual analogue scale at 2, 3 and 6 h after randomization of the patient; course of the systolic arterial pressure and peripheral oxygen saturation and lactate at admission and at 6 h after admission.

Results  In 25 patients in the furosemide group and in 28 patients in the placebo group, a BORG score could be obtained. There was no statistically significant difference in the severity of dyspnoea at one hour after randomization (P = 0·40). The median BORG score at 1 h after randomization in the furosemide group was 3 (IQR 2 to 4) compared to 3 (IQR 2 to 7) in the placebo group (P = 0·40). Those patients who were randomized to the placebo group needed higher doses of urapidil at 20 min after randomization. There were no significant differences in the rate of adverse events, nonfatal cardiac arrests or death between the two groups.

Conclusions  The subjective perception of dyspnoea in patients with hypertensive pulmonary oedema was not influenced by the application of a loop‐diuretic. Therefore, additional furosemide therapy needs to be scrutinized in the therapy of these patients.
Snails, waterfowl and cercarial dermatitis
Authors: HORÁK PETR , KOLÁŘOVÁ LIBUŠE
Published: December 2010

1. Birds and snails are suitable hosts for many parasites, including helminths in general and trematodes in particular. Among trematodes, members of the family Schistosomatidae with two‐host life cycles (snails as intermediate hosts and birds as definitive hosts) are successful and abundant pathogens. Their transmission between birds and snails in nature can be influenced by many abiotic and biotic factors.

2. In snails, the prevalence of schistosome infections and production of cercariae can be influenced by host immunological susceptibility/physiological suitability, snail age/size, interspecific competition of trematode larvae, etc. Schistosomes are able to survive in overwintering snails, serving as a source of infection in spring.

3. Birds may also differ in susceptibility to and prevalence rates of schistosome infections. They are long‐range vectors of schistosomes.

4. Climate changes influence behaviour of migratory birds, lead to shifts in season‐ or temperature‐dependent processes in snails and schistosomes, and influence the frequency of schistosome transmission and intensity of infection. Also, eutrophication can increase the growth of snail populations and transmission of bird schistosomes.

5. Dispersal of bird schistosomes to new regions and an increased availability (local abundance) of the snail hosts, together with the use of new water reservoirs (e.g., in higher latitudes) for recreational purposes, may contribute to a higher number of outbreaks of cercarial dermatitis.
Effect of fluoxetine on blood concentrations of serotonin, cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone in canine aggression
Authors: ROSADO B. , GARCÍA‐BELENGUER S. , LEÓN M. , CHACÓN G. , VILLEGAS A. , PALACIO J.
Published: December 2010

Rosado, B., García‐Belenguer, S., León, M., Chacón, G., Villegas, A., Palacio, J. Effect of fluoxetine on blood concentrations of serotonin, cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone in canine aggression.J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap.34, 430–436.

Canine aggression directed towards people is the most frequent reason for referral to behaviour practices. The serotonergic system and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis are believed to play an important role in controlling aggression. The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor fluoxetine is the most commonly used drug in canine aggression. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of a 30‐day‐long fluoxetine treatment on the peripheral serotonergic system and the HPA axis in canine aggression. To this end, the concentrations of serum serotonin (5‐HT) and plasma cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) were analysed in a group of aggressive (n = 22) and nonaggressive dogs (n = 9) during pre‐ (day 0) and posttreatment (day 30) conditions. Treatment caused a significant decrease in 5‐HT concentrations (46% in the aggressive group and 32% in the control group). There was a trend towards a rise of DHEA/cortisol ratio values after treatment both in the aggressive and the control group. The determination of blood 5‐HT and the DHEA/cortisol ratio could have important clinical applications in the future for deciding which animals might benefit from a given treatment as well as for monitoring the response. Further large‐scale studies with this aim should be carried out to obtain sound conclusions.
Novel gastroretentive controlled‐release drug delivery system for amoxicillin therapy in veterinary medicine
Authors: HORWITZ E. , KAGAN L. , CHAMISHA Y. , GATI I. , HOFFMAN A. , FRIEDMAN M. , LAVY E.
Published: December 2010

Horwitz, E., Kagan, L., Chamisha, Y., Gati, I., Hoffman, A., Friedman, M., Lavy, E. Novel gastroretentive controlled‐release drug delivery system for amoxicillin therapy in veterinary medicine. J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap.34, 487–493.

Beta‐lactam antimicrobials, commonly used in both veterinary and human medicine, generally present short biologic half‐lives, whereas their activity is enhanced as pathogen exposure is prolonged. These properties necessitate multiple‐dose regimens of standard dosage forms, thereby hampering pet owner adherence, frequently resulting in therapeutic failure. This study presents a novel controlled‐release gastroretentive oral drug delivery system for beta‐lactams with which single‐dose administration provides an effective antimicrobial course, optimizing pharmacokinetic (PK)–pharmacodynamic (PD) profiles, minimizing adverse effects and emergence of antimicrobial resistance and facilitating adherence. Our prototype sustained‐delivery swelling‐tablet (SDST), based on a degradable hydrophilic polymeric matrix, was designed to enable continuous input of these drugs to their absorption sites over several days. Several SDST formulations of the beta‐lactam amoxicillin were evaluated in in vitro dissolution studies. Two formulations were selected for further in vivo canine studies, for determination of gastric retention and PK–PD profiling. Prolonged gastric retention times maintaining allowed for maintained effective drug concentrations against many clinically relevant pathogens for more than 48 h for one formulation and more than 5 days for the other. Both SDST formulations offer significant advantages over standard immediate‐release therapy in achieving PK–PD goals and enhancing adherence. The prototypical formulations represent a novel platform which may be modified to meet various clinical requirements.
Fermentation of starch stimulates propagated contractions in the human colon
Authors: Jouët P. , Sabaté J.‐M. , Coffin B. , Lémann M. , Jian R. , Flourié B.
Published: December 2010

Background  In healthy humans, up to 30 g of daily ingested starch escape small intestinal digestion, and are fermented in the colon. This physiological starch malabsorption could modify colonic motility through metabolites such as short‐chain fatty acids produced by fermentation.

Methods  Ten healthy volunteers swallowed a probe, consisting of an infusion catheter, six perfused catheters and a balloon connected to a barostat. On two consecutive days colonic motility was recorded in fasting subjects in the basal state (1 h), and then during (3 h), and after (2 h) the intracolonic infusion of 750 mL of isoosmotic and isovolumetric solutions containing sodium chloride with or without 15 g wheat starch. We determined (i) the volume of hydrogen and methane exhaled in breath, (ii) a global motility index and the number of high amplitude propagated contractions (HAPCs), and (iii) the mean balloon volume, reflecting the tonic motor activity.

Key Results  [median (IQR)] Compared to the basal period, colonic infusion of starch or saline did not modify the colonic motility index and tone. However, the number of HAPCs was significantly higher during and after infusion of starch than of saline [4.5 (2.75–6.5) vs 0.96 (0–2.66)/5 h, starch vs saline respectively; P = 0.011].

Conclusions & Inferences  In healthy humans, colonic fermentation of a physiological malabsorbed amount of starch has no effect on the tonic and phasic colonic motor activities, but produces a significant increase in the number of HAPCs. This may participate in the physiological propulsion of colonic contents.
Catchment‐wide denudation rates at the margin of NE Tibet from in situ‐produced cosmogenic 10Be
Authors: Palumbo Luigi , Hetzel Ralf , Tao Mingxin , Li Xiaobin
Published: December 2010

Terra Nova, 23, 42–48, 2011

We present denudation rates for catchments in the Qilian Shan and two mountain ranges in its foreland, which differ markedly in elevation and catchment morphology. Catchments with mean slope angles below ∼25° yield 10Be‐derived denudation rates <∼200 mm ka−1 and have narrow and symmetric slope–frequency distributions, which become broader as the mean slope angle increases. Denudation rates for catchments with mean hillslope angles steeper than ∼25° range from ∼100 to ∼800 mm ka−1. Field observations suggest that these higher and more variable rates are the result of erosion by bedrock landslides, which contribute to mass transport on the hillslopes. Six catchments aligned along the mountain front of the central Qilian Shan have reached threshold values of slope and relief. These basins also show remarkably similar slope–frequency distributions with negative skewness and a pronounced peak at a slope angle of 30°–35°. We hypothesize that these catchments have attained an erosional steady state.
When an ‘inverse’ fabric is not inverse: an integrated AMS‐SPO study in MORB‐like dykes
Authors: Hastie Warwick W. , Aubourg Charles , Watkeys Michael K.
Published: December 2010

Terra Nova, 23, 49–55, 2011

Magma flow direction is recorded in the macroscopic mineral petrofabric and magnetic fabric of the MORB‐like Rooi Rand dyke swarm. The bulk magnetic fabric is sub‐parallel to the dyke plane, resulting from preferred orientation of grains during magma flow. This is referred to as type‐A fabric. A study of mineral shape preferred orientation reveals an additional fabric, which is orthogonal to the average dyke orientation in 30% of the data. This fabric is carried by both plagioclase and opaque grains and would typically be interpreted as ‘inverse’. It is referred to here as type‐B fabric. However, because it is carried by the shape preferred orientation of macroscopic grains and is in most cases not coaxial to the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility fabric, it is interpreted as having been acquired during increased grain interaction during late‐stage magma flow associated with decreasing magma pressure.
Procoagulant activity of long‐term stored red blood cells due to phosphatidylserine exposure
Authors: Lu C. , Shi J. , Yu H. , Hou J. , Zhou J.
Published: December 2010

Objective/Background: Phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure on the outer membrane surface is a known storage lesion of red blood cells (RBCs). Procoagulant activity (PCA) of PRBC units has been shown to increase during storage. However, the PCA and the relation to PS of banked RBCs remain unknown. The aim of this study is to investigate the PCA and the correlation with PS exposure on banked RBCs.

Materials and Methods: Human normal leucodepleted RBC concentrates were stored in saline–adenine–glucose–mannitol (SAGM) solution at 4 °C for up to 42 days. PS exposure was measured by lactadherin and annexin V. PCA of RBCs was determined by one‐step recalcification assay and further determined by prothrombinase and tenase assays. The correlation between PCA and PS exposure of RBCs was measured by inhibition tests with lactadherin or annexin V.

Results: Lactadherin detected 1·5% PS‐positive stored RBCs vs 0·5% for annexin V after 14 days of storage, which significantly reached 18·4 vs 4·5% after 42 days of storage. Potent PCA was observed on day 14 and continuously increased. PCA of RBCs on day 42 was inhibited 94% by lactadherin vs 45% by annexin V. Incubation at 37 °C in fresh heparinised plasma partially reversed PS exposure and PCA of RBCs stored for 14 days but had no effect on these parameters for cells stored for 42 days.

Conclusions: PCA and PS exposure of stored RBCs increased during storage and showed significant positive correlation. PCA of long‐term stored RBCs may not be reversed by transfusion.
Haematological and biochemical reference intervals for infants and children in Gabon
Authors: Humberg Alexander , Kammer Judith , Mordmüller Benjamin , Kremsner Peter G. , Lell Bertrand
Published: December 2010

Objectives  To establish reference intervals for major haematological and biochemical parameters in Gabonese infants and children.

Methods  The reference sample population consisted of 226 healthy infants (4–9 weeks of age) and 185 healthy children (18–60 months of age). Basic red cell parameters as well as total and differential white blood cell counts were performed. Clinical chemistry parameters consisted of glutamate–pyruvic transaminase and creatinine, and total bilirubin was measured in children. Statistical analysis was based on the guidelines of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Nonparametric methods were used to determine 95% reference limits and their 90% confidence intervals.

Results  Compared to European populations, values for several red cell parameters (haemoglobin, haematocrit, red blood cell count, mean corpuscular volume) were lower and platelet counts were higher. Eosinophils were higher in the older age group, most likely caused by intestinal helminths.

Conclusions  The study confirms the importance of establishing reference limits for local populations. The reference ranges could be used as a benchmark for similar populations in Central Africa.
Diagnostic delay amongst tuberculosis patients in Jogjakarta Province, Indonesia is related to the quality of services in DOTS facilities
Authors: Ahmad Riris Andono , Mahendradhata Yodi , Utarini Adi , de Vlas Sake J.
Published: December 2010

Objectives  To understand determinants of care‐seeking patterns and diagnostic delay amongst tuberculosis (TB) patients diagnosed at direct observed treatment short course (DOTS) facilities in Jogjakarta, Indonesia.

Methods  Cross‐sectional survey amongst newly diagnosed TB patients in 89 DOTS facilities whose history of care‐seeking was reconstructed through retrospective interviews gathering data on socio‐demographic determinants, onset of TB symptoms, type of health facilities visited, duration of each care‐seeking action were recorded.

Results  Two hundred and fifty‐three TB patients were included in the study whose median duration of patients’ delay was 1 week and whose total duration of diagnostic delay was 5.4 weeks. The median number of visits was 4. Many of the patients’ socio‐demographic determinants were not associated with the care‐seeking patterns, and no socio‐demographic determinants were associated with the duration of diagnostic delay. More than 60% of TB patients started their care‐seeking processes outside DOTS facilities, but the number of visits in DOTS facilities was greater during the overall care‐seeking process. Surprisingly, patient’s immediate visits to a DOTS facility did not correspond to shorter diagnostic delay.

Conclusion  Diagnostic delay in Jogjakarta province was not associated with patients’ socio demographic factors, but rather with the health system providing DOTS services. This suggests that strengthening the health system and improving diagnostic quality within DOTS services is now a more rational strategy than expanding the TB programme to engage more providers.
Value of liver stiffness measured by transient elastography in the liver transplant pre‐operative evaluation of the potential deceased liver donors: preliminary study
Authors: Pichon Nicolas , Loustaud‐Ratti Véronique , Clavel Marc , Carrier Paul , Amiel Jean Bernard , Labrousse François
Published: December 2010

Pichon N, Loustaud‐Ratti V, Clavel M, Carrier P, Amiel JB, Labrousse F. Value of liver stiffness measured by transient elastography in the liver transplant pre‐operative evaluation of the potential deceased liver donors: preliminary study.  Clin Transplant 2011: 25: E205–E210. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  The selection of a liver graft is crucial for the success of a transplantation. One of the determinant factors in the selection of a liver graft of quality is to assess the degree of steatosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a FibroScan® during the liver retrieval procedure and to determine the interest of measuring liver stiffness (LS) using the FibroScan® as a criterion of objective assessment in the pre‐donation selection of liver grafts. Of 16 FibroScan® performed on 16 livers of donors meeting conventional French criteria for the selection of liver grafts, the LS values were considered as abnormal in three donors (18.75%). The correspondence with the histologic analysis of the biopsies in terms of elevated steatosis was excellent. For 13 other liver grafts, the values of LS were normal as were the histologic analyses of the biopsies. A supplementary multicenter study is required in order to position the transient elastography as the objective examination in the pre‐operative selection of liver grafts.
Diplanetism and microcyclic sporulation in Phytophthora ramorum
Authors: Moralejo E. , Descals E.
Published: December 2010

The zoosporic phase of the pathogen Phytophthora ramorum plays a crucial role in the process of plant infection, yet little is known about the fate of zoospores failing to target their hosts. Here, we describe new stages in the life cycle of P. ramorum concerning the in vitro development of monomorphic diplanetism and microcyclic sporulation in free water. Papillate cysts were formed after zoospore suspensions of isolates of the EU1 and NA1 clonal lineages were vortexed. Cysts usually germinated directly forming an emerging tube, or indirectly by releasing a secondary zoospore, which leaves behind an empty cyst with a short evacuation tube. Germinate cysts frequently developed either an appressorium or a microsporangium both terminally. We also observed microcyclic sporulation, i.e. sporangia indirectly germinated by forming a microsporangium, as in microcyclic conidiation of true fungi. Temporal progress of encysted zoospores in solution showed that percentage of germination varied significantly among and within isolates as well as between experiments, suggesting that germination is partly ruled by internal mechanisms. Diplanetism and microcyclic sporulation in P. ramorum may provide a second opportunity for host infection and may increase the chance of long dispersal in moving water.
Utilization of milk amino acids by the suckling Iberian piglet
Authors: Aguinaga M. A. , Gómez‐Carballar F. , Nieto R. , Aguilera J. F.
Published: December 2010

Sixteen pure‐bred Iberian (IB) sows were used in two trials to determine the efficiency of utilization of milk protein and amino acid (AA) for growth in suckling piglets. It was hypothesized that there may be one or more strongly limiting essential AA (EAA) responsible for the slow rate of growth of the IB piglet. This AA will show the highest fractional retention. Daily milk yield and composition were determined weekly over a 34‐day lactation period. Within each litter, one piglet at birth and four piglets on d 35 of life were slaughtered. The protein content of the IB sow milk was similar to that reported for conventional breeds. However, branched‐chain AA, Thr, Pro, Asp and Ala were in concentrations somewhat below the range of literature values and Arg and Met, substantially above it. Milk intake per piglet tended to be greater in Trial 2 (832 vs. 893 g/day respectively; p = 0.066). However, the IB piglets grew at 168 ± 3.3 g/day, irrespective of the trial. The whole‐body protein of piglets at weaning and the protein deposited in their body during the lactating period showed very close AA pattern. Among EAA, His and Arg show the highest fractional retentions (g AA retained/g AA ingested) in whole‐body tissues (1.019 ± 0.025 and 0.913 ± 0.017 respectively) and also the highest body to milk ratios (1.50 and 1.41 respectively). Gly and Ala presented, among non essential AA, the highest efficiencies of utilization for tissue deposition (1.803 ± 0.057 and 1.375 ± 0.026 respectively) and body to milk ratios (2.75 and 2.12 respectively). These results suggest that the low efficiency of utilization of milk protein and the low rate of gain of the IB suckling piglet can be explained by a marked shortage in His supply, in addition to the suboptimal milk provision of Arg, Gly and Ala.
Plasma leptin and mRNA expression of lipogenesis and lipolysis‐related factors in bovine adipose tissue around parturition
Authors: Sadri H. , Mielenz M. , Morel I. , Bruckmaier R. M. , van Dorland H. A.
Published: December 2010

The objective was to study changes in plasma leptin concentration parallel to changes in the gene expression of lipogenic‐ and lipolytic‐related genes in adipose tissue of dairy cows around parturition. Subcutaneous fat biopsies were taken from 27 dairy cows in week 8 antepartum (a.p.), on day 1 postpartum (p.p.) and in week 5 p.p. Blood samples were assayed for concentrations of leptin and non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFA). Subcutaneous adipose tissue was analysed for mRNA abundance by real‐time qRT‐PCR encoding for leptin, adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1), adiponectin receptor 2 (AdipoR2), hormones‐sensitive lipase (HSL), perilipin (PLIN), lipoprotein lipase (LPL), acyl‐CoA synthase long‐chain family member 1 (ACSL1), acetyl‐CoA carboxlyase (ACC), fatty acid synthase (FASN) and glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase 2 (GPD2). Body weight and body condition score of the cows were lower after parturition than before parturition. The calculated energy balance was negative in week 1 and 5 p.p., with higher negative energy balance in week 1 p.p. compared with that in week 5 p.p. On day 1 p.p., highest concentrations of NEFA (353.3 μmol/l) were detected compared with the other biopsy time‐points (210.6 and 107.7 μmol/l, in week 8 a.p., and week 5 p.p. respectively). Reduced plasma concentrations of leptin during p.p. when compared with a.p. would favour increasing metabolic efficiency and energy conservation for mammary function and reconstitution of body reserves. Lower mRNA abundance of ACC and FASN expression on day 1 p.p. compared with other biopsy time‐points suggests an attenuation of fatty acid synthesis in subcutaneous adipose tissue shortly after parturition. Gene expression of AdipoR1, AdipoR2, HSL, PLIN, LPL, ACSL1 and GPD2 was unchanged over time.
Validation of two ELISA assays for total ghrelin measurement in dogs
Authors: Tvarijonaviciute A. , Martínez‐Subiela S. , Ceron J. J.
Published: December 2010

The aim of this study was to validate two commercially available ELISA assays for total ghrelin measurement in dogs: one canine‐specific and one originally designed for measuring human ghrelin. The two assays showed intra‐assay coefficient of variations (CVs) lower than 10%, while the inter‐assay CVs exceeded the 15% limit. Sample dilutions resulted in linear regression equations with correlation coefficients close to 1. In order to compare methods and verify ability of the ghrelin assays to differentiate between low and high levels, ghrelin concentrations were measured in plasma samples obtained before and at different times after glucose administration in five Beagle dogs. A statistically significant changes in ghrelin after glucose administration was recorded only with assay B. In conclusion, the human ELISA validated in this study showed a good intra‐assay precision, accuracy, and when applied to the glucose injection study, was better in distinguishing high and low canine ghrelin levels than the canine ELISA assay.
Glycaemic and insulinaemic responses to feeding hay with different non‐structural carbohydrate content in control and polysaccharide storage myopathy‐affected horses
Authors: Borgia L. , Valberg S. , McCue M. , Watts K. , Pagan J.
Published: December 2010

The aim of this study was to determine whether the glycaemic/insulinaemic responses to hay with non‐structural carbohydrate (NSC, soluble carbohydrate) of 17% (HC), 10% (MC) or 4% (LC) differs in control horses and whether these responses differ between control and horses with polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM). Five clinically normal control horses and seven PSSM horses, all unfit and of Quarter Horse breeding (age 9.4 ± 3.4 years, body condition score range: 4.5–6). A crossover design compared the HC and LC hay, with horses randomly assigned to hay type for 5 days, and all horses fed the MC hay during washout, after which the diets were switched. Horses were fed 1.5% BW (as fed) divided into 2 feeding per day, no grain. On morning of the fifth day of each block (seventh day for washout), horses were given 0.5% BW in hay, blood was drawn before and every 30 min for 5 h after feeding, and the rate of intake was measured. Whole blood glucose and plasma insulin were measured. The intake rate was significantly higher for HC. In control horses, the insulin area under the curve (6891.7 ± 3524.2 HC vs. 1185.4 ± 530.2 LC) was significantly higher than LC. Polysaccharide storage myopathy horses had significantly higher glycaemic and insulinaemic responses to HC vs. LC, however; the magnitude of insulin response was lower and glucose response higher in PSSM vs. control horses. Results suggest that insulin responses can differ significantly with the NSC content of hay. Feeding hay with 17% NSC produces elevations in insulin that could be detrimental for PSSM horses.
Behavioural responses by Rhagoletis indifferens (Dipt., Tephritidae) to sweet cherry treated with kaolin‐ and limestone‐based products
Authors: Yee W. L.
Published: December 2010

Kaolin‐ and limestone‐based products were compared for their effects on two behavioural responses, landing and oviposition, to sweet cherry by Rhagoletis indifferens Curran (Dipt., Tephritidae). Surround (95% calcined kaolin), Cocoon (100% hydrous kaolin), Eclipse (>97% limestone) and Purshade (62.5% limestone) were studied. Overall, in choice and no‐choice tests, Surround reduced landing and oviposition more than Cocoon, Eclipse and Purshade. However, all products significantly reduced landing and oviposition compared with untreated controls. In choice tests, high fly density increased the proportion of eggs laid in cherries treated with Surround, Cocoon, or Eclipse vs. cherries that were untreated when compared with low fly density. Applications of 3% followed by 6% Surround reduced landings and oviposition more than two applications of 10% Cocoon, Eclipse, or Purshade. Surround caused higher mortality than Cocoon and Eclipse. In the field, Surround reduced production of puparia from cherries by 32.3% to 100%, depending on the trees sprayed. Surround provided the best protection for cherries against R. indifferens, but limestone‐based products potentially might be modified to be oviposition deterrents. Consideration should be given to fly densities when using particle films to protect fruit.
An fMRI investigation of detection of semantic incongruities in autistic spectrum conditions
Authors: Catarino Ana , Luke Lydia , Waldman Sarah , Andrade Alexandre , Fletcher Paul C. , Ring Howard
Published: December 2010

The aim of this study was to investigate differences in the brain’s haemodynamic response to semantically incongruent and congruent sentences in adults with an autistic spectrum condition (ASC) and a typically developing Control group. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging to measure regional variations in neural activity during detection of semantic incongruities within written sentences. Whilst the 12 controls showed a pattern of activity extending from posterior cingulate cortices bilaterally and the left occipitotemporal region to the left superior and inferior temporal lobes, right anterior cingulate and right inferior frontal gyrus, the 12 participants with an ASC presented a more spatially restricted activation pattern, including the left inferior frontal gyrus, left anterior cingulate cortex and right middle frontal gyrus. These results are coherent with the hypothesis that impaired integration of multiple neural networks in people with an ASC is related to previous observations that this group have difficulties in the use of context to predict the final word of sentences.
Vascular endothelial growth factor up‐regulation in the mouse hippocampus and its role in the control of epileptiform activity
Authors: Cammalleri Maurizio , Martini Davide , Ristori Chiara , Timperio Anna Maria , Bagnoli Paola
Published: December 2010

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signalling pathway may represent an endogenous anti‐convulsant in the rodent hippocampus although its exact contribution requires some clarification. In mouse hippocampal slices, the potassium channel blocker 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP) in the absence of external Mg2+(0 Mg2+) produces both ictal and interictal activity followed by a prolonged period of repetitive interictal activity. In this model, we demonstrated that exogenous VEGF has clear effects on ictal and interictal activity as it reduces the duration of ictal‐like events, but decreases the frequency and intensity of interictal discharges. VEGF affects epileptiform activity through its receptor VEGFR‐2. We also demonstrated for the first time that the synaptic action of VEGF in the hippocampus is through VEGFR‐2‐mediated effects on NMDA and GABAB receptors and that VEGF does not affect the NMDA excytatory postsynaptic potential paired‐pulse facilitation ratio. Exogenous VEGF does not affect the AMPA‐mediated responses and the dendritic or the somatic GABAA inhibitory postsynaptic potentials. In addition, VEGF drastically reduces 0 Mg2+/4‐AP‐induced glutamate release through VEGFR‐2 activation. In vitro epileptiform activity is sufficient to increase hippocampal expression of VEGF and VEGFR‐2, and this up‐regulation may serve a neuroprotective and/or anti‐convulsant role. VEGFR‐2 up‐regulation has been localized to the CA1 region, which suggests that VEGF signalling may protect CA1 pyramidal cells from hyperexcitability. These results indicate that VEGF controls epileptic activity by influencing both glutamatergic and GABAergic transmission and further advance our understanding of the conditions required for endogenous VEGF up‐regulation, and the mechanisms by which VEGF achieves an anti‐convulsant effect.
Who needs an IV? Retrospective service analysis in a tertiary pediatric hospital
Authors: Wilson Graham , Engelhardt Thomas
Published: December 2010

Aims:  The question if it is possible and safe to anesthetize children for short procedures without intravenous (IV) access provokes strong opinions among pediatric anesthetists. However, only limited data are available to support either side of the arguments. This pediatric university hospital provides anesthesia to a community dental service, led by staff anesthesiologists. A rapid turnover system based on inhalational induction and maintenance of anesthesia without mandatory IV access has been employed since 2005.

Methods:  A retrospective service analysis was performed to identify the incidence of adverse anesthesia events.

Results:  A total of 6440 children with an average (±sd) age of 8.1 (±4.1) years and weight of 29.6 (±13.5) kg were cared for over the 5‐year period. The total number of children refusing to undergo inhalational induction was 81 (1.26%) and 19 (0.3%) elected for an IV induction. One‐third received cannulation for delivery of IV analgesia. There were no adverse anesthesia events requiring emergency cannulation and/or intubation over the 5‐year period.

Conclusions:  This service review indicates that general anesthesia for outpatient dental anesthesia may be safely performed without mandatory IV access. The technique employed in this center emphasizes the need for the clinician to primarily concentrate on pediatric airway management in a safe environment with experienced assistance. It supports the hypothesis that instrumentation of the airway (insertion of laryngeal mask airway) can be satisfactorily achieved without prior IV access.
Towards evidence‐based pharmacotherapy in children
Authors: Kemper Elles Marleen , Merkus Maruschka , Wierenga Peter C. , Van Rijn Petra C. , Van der Werff Desirée , Lie‐A‐Huen Loraine , Offringa Martin
Published: December 2010

In daily practice, it is difficult to find a registered drug for children, because about 70% of the drugs prescribed in children are not studied, off‐label or unlicensed in this age group. Clinical trials have usually been performed in adults, and then in daily practice dosages are adjusted for children without proper studies in that age group. In some countries, national formularies are being established to overcome the existing variance in prescribing between physicians. Complicating factors in finding the correct dosage for children include the heterogeneity between different age groups in the developmental stages of the organs influencing the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion as well as differences in body composition during growth. Growth may also influence the effects and adverse effects of a drug used in a child. For oral administration of drugs in children, the bioavailability, the taste, the composition, and the absence of toxic ingredients for that age group are additional important factors. The EU has recently introduced legislation to stimulate the pharmaceutical industry to investigate the pharmacological effect and safety of new medicines in children. In response to this legislation, research networks are being established to provide the optimal infrastructure for pediatric drug investigation. The goals of this paper are to review the current problems in daily practice and to address the needs for evidence based pharmacotherapy in children.
Pediatric regional anesthesia: what is the current safety record?
Authors: Polaner David M. , Drescher Jessica
Published: December 2010

The use of regional anesthetics, whether as adjuncts, primary anesthetics or postoperative analgesia, is increasingly common in pediatric practice. Data on safety remain limited because of the paucity of very large‐scale prospective studies that are necessary to detect low incidence events, although several studies either have been published or have reported preliminary results. This paper will review the data on complications and risk in pediatric regional anesthesia. Information currently available suggests that regional blockade, when performed properly, carries a very low risk of morbidity and mortality in appropriately selected infants and children.
Illicit ketamine induced frequency of micturition in a young Malay woman
Authors: NOORZURANI ROBSON , VICKNASINGAM BALASINGAM , NARAYANAN SURESH
Published: December 2010

Issues. The growing use of illicit ketamine among young adults poses a public health concern in Malaysia. In contrast to medical use of ketamine, illicit use has been reported to produce adverse effects on the urinary tract and, in particular the bladder. Approach and Key Findings. This case report describes a young Malay woman who developed severe bladder symptoms (urinary frequency) after consuming illicit ketamine. A history of illicit ketamine use was initially missed, and she was consequently diagnosed and treated for a urinary tract infection. Her symptoms persisted despite several courses of antibiotics. The patient was subsequently referred to an urologist where cystoscopic examination and biopsy of the bladder found changes consistent with interstitial cystitis. This was despite the absence of haematuria. Renal function was normal. Implication. The patient's ketamine use was the most likely cause for the urinary symptoms and bladder changes. Conclusion. Illicit ketamine use may lead to severe urinary tract problems that can be irreversible even after ketamine has ceased. Early diagnosis is critical although difficult when ketamine use is not divulged during the consultation with the physician. Physician consideration of this new clinical entity is important, particularly in cases where the symptoms do not resolve with usual treatment.[Robson N, Vicknasingam B, Narayanan S. Illicit ketamine induced frequency of micturition in a young Malay woman. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010;29;334–336]