bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fungal Decay of First-Crop and Main-Crop Figs
Authors: Doster Mark A. , Michailides Themis J.
Published: November 2007

Fig cultivars grown in California typically have two crops, although the first crop may be unimportant commercially. The first crop, also known as the breba crop, ripens in late spring and early summer, whereas the main or second crop ripens in late summer. For both cultivars studied, Conadria and Calimyrna, the first-crop figs typically are left in the orchard unharvested. First-crop figs had relatively high levels of fungal decay and tended to have more fungal decay than main-crop figs, especially Alternaria rot (caused by Alternaria alternata and Ulocladium atrum). At least 16 different Aspergillus spp. were found decaying first-crop figs. Fig smut, a serious disease caused by Aspergillus niger and related fungi, usually was present at approximately the same level in first-crop and main-crop figs. Aspergillus spp. known to produce the mycotoxins aflatoxin or ochratoxin were found decaying first-crop figs. Aflatoxin was detected in first-crop figs at low levels similar to those detected in the main-crop figs. Because the abundant spores produced on the first-crop figs can infect main-crop figs, the fungal decay of first-crop figs might result in higher levels of decay for main-crop figs.
Wild Himalayan Cherry (Prunus cerasoides) as a Natural Host of Prunus necrotic ringspot virus in India
Authors: Chandel V. , Rana T. , Hallan V. , Zaidi A. A.
Published: November 2007

Prunus cerasoides, also known as wild Himalayan cherry, grows naturally in the Himalayas. A member of the Rosaceae family, the tree has medicinal (astringent) and other (beads, dye, wood) uses. During surveys in the northwestern Himalayan Region of India, necrotic spots were observed on leaves of P. cerasoides. Since the symptoms were typical of Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV), preliminary detection was done by double-antibody sandwich (DAS)-ELISA (Agdia, Elkhart, IN). Positive results were obtained three times more than the negative control which is provided in the kit. To further confirm its presence, reverse transcription (RT)-PCR analysis was performed using a primer pair (upstream 5′-AACTGCAGATGGTTTGCCGAATTTGCAA-3′; downstream 5′-GCTCTAGACTAGATCTCAAGCAGGTC-3′) specific for the coat protein gene (GenBank Accession Nos. AJ619984 and AJ619983). Amplification of the expected 675-bp fragment was obtained. The sequence of a cloned copy of the amplified product showed 99% similarity to the PNRSV coat protein gene (GenBank Accession No. AF170165), confirming the presence of PNRSV in P. cerasoides (sequence submitted as Accession No. AM493717). The cloned DNA has the potential for utilization as an additional tool, and an early PNRSV screening (both pollen and seed transmitted) will be highly useful to ensure healthy rootstocks are used for grafting purposes (1). PNRSV mainly infects members of the Rosaceae family, including stone fruits and ornamental plants such as peach, plum, cherry, apricot, nectarines, and roses, and was first reported in P. persica (1). Proper management of PNRSV at this level can prevent its transmission and disease development in grafted scions of commercial Prunus spp.

Reference: (1) A. A. Brunt et al. Page 1047 in: Viruses of Plants. CAB International, Wallingford, UK. 1996.
Phylogenetic relationships and host‐plant evolution within the basal clade of Halictidae (Hymenoptera, Apoidea)
Authors: Patiny S. , Michez D. , Danforth B. N.
Published: November 2007

Bees are among the most important pollinators of angiosperm plants. Many bee species show narrow host‐plant preferences, reflected both in behavioral and morphological adaptations to particular attributes of host‐plant pollen or floral morphology. Whether bee host‐plant associations reflect co‐cladogenesis of bees and their host plants or host‐switches to unrelated host plants is not clear. Rophitinae is a basal subfamily of Halictidae in which most species show narrow host‐plant preferences (oligolecty). We reconstructed the phylogenetic relationships among the rophitine genera using a combination of adult morphology (24 characters) and DNA sequence data (EF‐1α, LW rhodopsin, wingless; 2700 bp total). The data set was analyzed by parsimony, maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods. All methods yielded highly congruent results. Using the phylogeny, we investigated the pattern of host‐plant association as well as the historical biogeography of Rophitinae. Our biogeographical analysis suggests a number of dispersal/vicariance events: (1) a basal split between North America and South America (most likely a dispersal from South America to North America), and (2) at least two subsequent interchanges between North America and Eurasia (presumably via the northern hemisphere land bridges). Our analysis of host‐plant associations indicates that Rophitinae specialized on a closely related group of angiosperm orders in the Euasterid I clade (mainly Gentianales, Lamiales and Solanales). However, there is little evidence of cocladogenesis between bees and plants and strong evidence of host switches to unrelated host plants. Based on our phylogenetic results we describe two new tribes of Rophitinae: Conanthalictini new tribe (including the genus Conanthalictus) and Xeralictini new tribe (including Xeralictus and Protodufourea).

© The Willi Hennig Society 2007.
Hostility, drinking pattern and mortality
Authors: Boyle Stephen H. , Mortensen Laust , Grønbæk Morten , Barefoot John C.
Published: November 2007

Aims  This study examined the association of hostility to drinking pattern and whether this association mediated the relation of hostility to mortality.

Participants and design  Subjects were 3326 current drinkers from the Vietnam Experience Study cohort who were followed for vital status.

Setting  United States.

Measurements  Hostility was measured by an abbreviated version of the Cook–Medley Hostility Scale (ACM). The alcohol variables were total monthly intake of alcohol, drinking frequency, drinks per drinking day and drinking ≥ 5 drinks on at least one occasion in the past month (i.e. heavy episodic drinking).

Findings  Regression analyses showed associations between the ACM and total monthly intake of alcohol (P < 0.0001), drinks per drinking day (P < 0.0001) and heavy episodic drinking (P < 0.0001), but not with frequency of drinking days. Hostility, drinks per drinking day, heavy episodic drinking and total monthly alcohol intake were also associated with all‐cause mortality (all Ps < 0.0001). Further analyses showed that drinking pattern, particularly drinks per drinking day, may account partially for the relation of hostility to mortality.

Conclusions  High hostility is associated with elevated mortality and a deleterious drinking pattern characterized by relatively high intake per drinking occasion. Drinking pattern could help explain the relationships between hostility and health.
Proactive interventions for smoking cessation in general medical practice: a quasi‐randomized controlled trial to examine the efficacy of computer‐tailored letters and physician‐delivered brief advice*
Authors: Meyer Christian , Ulbricht Sabina , Baumeister Sebastian E. , Schumann Anja , Rüge Jeannette , Bischof Gallus , Rumpf Hans‐Jürgen , John Ulrich
Published: November 2007

Aims  To test the efficacy of (i) computer‐generated tailored letters and (ii) practitioner‐delivered brief advice for smoking cessation against an assessment‐only condition; and to compare both interventions directly.

Design  Quasi‐randomized controlled trial.

Setting  A total of 34 randomly selected general practices from a German region (participation rate 87%).

Participants  A total of 1499 consecutive patients aged 18–70 years with daily cigarette smoking (participation rate 80%).

Interventions  The tailored letters intervention group received up to three individualized personal letters. Brief advice was delivered during routine consultation by the practitioner after an onsite training session. Both interventions were based on the Transtheoretical Model of behaviour change.

Measurements  Self‐reported point prevalence and prolonged abstinence at 6‐, 12‐, 18‐ and 24‐month follow‐ups.

Findings  Among participants completing the last follow‐up, 6‐month prolonged abstinence was 18.3% in the tailored letters intervention group, 14.8% in the brief advice intervention group and 10.5% in the assessment‐only control group. Assuming those lost to follow‐up to be smokers, the rates were 10.2%, 9.7% and 6.7%, respectively. Analyses including all follow‐ups confirmed statistically significant effects of both interventions compared to assessment only. Using complete case analysis, the tailored letters intervention was significantly more effective than brief advice for 24‐hour [odds ratio (OR) = 1.4; P = 0.047] but not for 7‐day point prevalence abstinence (OR = 1.4; P = 0.068) for prolonged abstinence, or for alternative assumptions about participants lost to follow‐up.

Conclusions  The study demonstrated long‐term efficacy of low‐cost interventions for smoking cessation in general practice. The interventions are suitable to reach entire populations of general practices and smoking patients. Computer‐generated letters are a promising option to overcome barriers to provide smoking cessation counselling routinely.
Estimating regression to the mean and true effects of an intervention in a four‐wave panel study
Authors: Gmel Gerhard , Wicki Matthias , Rehm Jürgen , Heeb Jean‐Luc
Published: November 2007

Objectives  First, to analyse whether a taxation‐related decrease in spirit prices had a similar effect on spirit consumption for low‐, medium‐ and high‐level drinkers. Secondly, as the relationship between baseline values and post‐intervention changes is confounded with regression to the mean (RTM) effects, to apply different approaches for estimating the RTM effect and true change.

Sample  Consumption of spirits and total alcohol consumption were analysed in a four‐wave panel study (one pre‐intervention and three post‐intervention measurements) of 889 alcohol consumers sampled from the general population of Switzerland.

Methods  Two correlational methods, one method quantitatively estimating the RTM effect and one growth curve approach based on hierarchical linear models (HLM), were used to estimate RTM effects among low‐, medium‐ and high‐level drinkers.

Results  Adjusted for RTM effects, high‐level drinkers increased consumption more than lighter drinkers in the short term, but this was not a persisting effect. Changes in taxation affected mainly light and moderate drinkers in the long term. All methods concurred that RTM effects were present to a considerable degree, and methods quantifying the RTM effect or adjusting for it yielded similar estimates.

Conclusion  Intervention studies have to consider RTM effects both in the study design and in the evaluation methods. Observed changes can be adjusted for RTM effects and true change can be estimated. The recommended method, particularly if the aim is to estimate change not only for the sample as a whole, but for groups of drinkers with different baseline consumption levels, is growth curve modelling. If reliability of measurement instruments cannot be increased, the incorporation of more than one pre‐intervention measurement point may be a valuable adjustment of the study design.
Spatial and temporal evolution of foredeep basins: lateral strength variations and inelastic yielding in continental lithosphere
Authors: Waschbusch PAULA J. , Royden LEIGH H.
Published: November 2007

Lateral strength variations in foreland lithosphere in front of an advancing subduction zone (or thrust belt) can exert strong controls on the spatial and temporal evolution of the foredeep basin because local weak zones within the foreland serve to localize the position of the outer flexural bulge (with respect to the foreland) for extended periods of time. This occurs because the weak segment bends more easily than the surrounding, suffer plate, so that plate bending is concentrated within the weak zone. With time, the dip of the down‐going (foreland) plate becomes steeper, narrowing and/or deepening the foredeep basin. If several weak zones are present within the foreland, basin development can become episodic, with protracted periods of time during which the basin remains fixed with respect to the foreland, interspersed by brief periods of time during which the basin advances rapidly toward the foreland. The flexural behaviour will be directly reflected in the stratigraphic record, producing facies belts which migrate toward the foreland in an episodic fashion. If the foreland lithosphere behaves as an elastic sheet, the weak zones must have a flexural rigidity about an order of magnitude lower than (or an elastic plate thickness about half of) the surrounding, stiffer plate in order to induce strongly episodic behaviour. When the effects of inelastic yielding in a lithosphere of brittle‐elastic‐ductile rheology are considered, the strength contrast required to produce episodic behaviour is reduced to about a factor of two in flexural rigidity (or 10–15 % in initial elastic plate thickness). Examples taken from two foredeep basins show evidence for episodic foredeep basin development: in both the early Proterozoic Kilohigok basin of northern Canada and the Pliocene‐Quaternary Apennine foredeep basin beneath the Adriatic Sea, the outer flexural bulge appears to have remained fixed with respect to the foreland while the inner part of the basin deepened through time. In addition, the flexural geometry of the Pliocene‐Quaternary Apennine foredeep basin is well modelled by an elastic plate varying laterally in strength of thickness Telastic=8.5 km with a 20 km‐long weak zone of thickness Tweak= 4.25 km.
Basin formation behind an active subduction zone: three‐dimensional flexural modelling of Wanganui Basin, New Zealand
Authors: Stern T. A. , Quinlan G. M. , Holt W. E.
Published: November 2007

South Wanganui Basin is a Plio‐Pleistocene basin formed behind the Hikurangi subduction zone of the North Island, New Zealand. The active Benioffzone lies about 30–40 km beneath the centre of Wanganui Basin. We attribute the development of this basin primarily to frictional shear between the subducted Pacific plate and overriding Australian plate. This frictional interaction harnesses part of the ‘slab pull’ force of plate tectonics to deform the overriding plate and create the basin. The overall shape of the basin is modified to a lesser extent by the effects of uplift around the basin margin and by in‐plane compressional stress. A quantitative three‐dimensional model, based on flexure of a thin elastic sheet with spatially varying rigidity, is used to test the implications of our hypothesis. A maximum vertical loading stress of about 85 MPa is required to produce the vertical deformation in Wanganui Basin, and that in turn implies about 170 MPa of shear stress at the inclined subduction thrust. A vertical stress of 85 MPa applied over a 40‐km‐wide subduction thrust represents about 50% of the magnitude theoretically present in the ‘slab pull’ force. The effective elastic thickness (Te) of the flexed plate that provides the best fit to the observed deformation is 10 ± 5 km; such a low value of 7“e is attributed to the high plate curvature and high strain rates associated with Wanganui Basin. Constraints on our analysis are provided by seismic reflection, seismicity, gravity, geodetic and geological data. A similar situation to Wanganui Basin, in which a high‐friction subduction thrust induces shortening and flexure of the overlying crust, may be found in the Puget Sound area of Washington State, USA.
Interior cratonic basins of Africa: relation to continental break‐up and role of mantle convection
Authors: Hartley ROXBY W. , Allen PHILIP A.
Published: November 2007

The history of the African continent since the beginning of fragmentation of Pangaea is one of widespread rifting in the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous, extensive inundation under elevated Cretaceous sea‐levels, widespread epeirogenic uplift beginning in the Early Tertiary and off‐rift domal uplift associated with alkaline igneous activity in the Tertiary and especially in the Neogene. The cratonic basins have developed against this post break‐up background,

The cratonic basins of Africa are located between a relatively dense array of highspots and hotspots. Although there is a clear underlying structural fabric in the form of the Central African and West African rift systems, the present location of these basins cannot always be unequivocally linked to the presence of underlying rifts. The Congo Basin stands out as overlying a rigid rather than stretched lithosphere, and no reasonable density contrasts in the crust can explain the isostatic anomalies over the basin. Either there is a cold, dense region situated at depths typical of the upper mantle beneath the basin, or a downward‐acting dynamic force on the base of the lithosphere is necessary to explain the gravity field. Together, this points to the likelihood of a convective downwelling beneath the African plate under the Congo region.

The African cold‐spot model may be applicable to the Early Palaeozoic cratonic basins of North America. Their location and timing of development with respect to the adjacent plate margin, size and shape may be analogous to the African examples.
The interaction of planetary nebulae and their asymptotic giant branch progenitors with the interstellar medium
Authors: Wareing C. J. , Zijlstra Albert A. , O'Brien T. J.
Published: November 2007

Interaction with the interstellar medium (ISM) cannot be ignored in understanding planetary nebula (PN) evolution and shaping. In an effort to understand the range of shapes observed in the outer envelopes of PNe, we have run a comprehensive set of three-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations, from the beginning of the asymptotic giant branch (AGB) superwind phase until the end of the post-AGB/PN phase. A ‘triple-wind’ model is used, including a slow AGB wind, fast post-AGB wind and third wind reflecting the linear movement through the ISM. A wide range of stellar velocities, mass-loss rates and ISM densities have been considered.

We find that ISM interaction strongly affects outer PN structures, with the dominant shaping occurring during the AGB phase. The simulations predict four stages of PN–ISM interaction whereby (i) the PN is initially unaffected, (ii) then limb-brightened in the direction of motion, (iii) then distorted with the star moving away from the geometric centre, and (iv) finally so distorted that the object is no longer recognizable as a PN and may not be classed as such. Parsec-size shells around PNe are predicted to be common. The structure and brightness of ancient PNe are largely determined by the ISM interaction, caused by rebrightening during the second stage; this effect may address the current discrepancies in Galactic PN abundance. The majority of PNe will have tail structures. Evidence for strong interaction is found for all known PNe in globular clusters.
Plant metabolomics reveals conserved and divergent metabolic responses to salinity
Authors: Sanchez Diego H. , Siahpoosh Mohammad R. , Roessner Ute , Udvardi Michael , Kopka Joachim
Published: November 2007

New metabolic profiling technologies provide data on a wider range of metabolites than traditional targeted approaches. Metabolomic technologies currently facilitate acquisition of multivariate metabolic data using diverse, mostly hyphenated, chromatographic detection systems, such as GC‐MS or liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopy or NMR‐based methods. Analysis of the resulting data can be performed through a combination of non‐supervised and supervised statistical methods, such as independent component analysis and analysis of variance, respectively. These methods reduce the complex data sets to information, which is relevant for the discovery of metabolic markers or for hypothesis‐driven, pathway‐based analysis. Plant responses to salinity involve changes in the activity of genes and proteins, which invariably lead to changes in plant metabolism. Here, we highlight a selection of recent publications in the salt stress field, and use gas chromatography time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry profiles of polar fractions from the plant models, Arabidopsis thaliana, Lotus japonicus and Oryza sativa to demonstrate the power of metabolite profiling. We present evidence for conserved and divergent metabolic responses among these three species and conclude that a change in the balance between amino acids and organic acids may be a conserved metabolic response of plants to salt stress.
Correlations between sex rate estimates and fitness across predominantly parthenogenetic flatworm populations
Authors: D’SOUZA T. G. , MICHIELS N. K.
Published: November 2007

One explanation for the success of sexual reproduction is that sex increases the efficacy of natural selection. Recombination and segregation lead to fitness variance among offspring which then offers a wider target for natural selection. Consequently, adaptation to changing environments is accelerated and population mean fitness will increase.

We investigated whether low levels of sex are associated with increased fitness variance and mean in parthenogenetic biotypes of the planarian flatworm Schmidtea polychroa. Parthenogenetic S. polychroa are triploid and reproduce clonally with occasional sexual reproduction. By‐products and measures of occasional sex are the local presence of tetraploids and elevated levels of genotypic diversity. We correlated the proportion of tetraploids and genotypic diversity with fitness attributes of six genetically differentiated locations within one meta‐population. Results indicate strong, positive correlations with variance and with mean offspring number produced during a 5‐week period. The ecological and evolutionary implications for the maintenance of parthenogenetic S. polychroa are discussed.
Quantification of renal pathology by image analysis (Methods in Renal Research)
Authors: RANGAN GOPALA K , TESCH GREG H
Published: November 2007

SUMMARY:  Recent advances in computer image analysis techniques allow more accurate quantification of kidney pathological lesions, which are identified by histological staining or immunohistochemistry. This article provides a detailed description of the basic techniques for quantifying these lesions in digital images of light microscopy using Image J software, which is freely available over the Internet. The methods discussed include calibrating measurements, applying scales to images, assessment of object size and thickness, cell counting and point counting, and analysis of area stained. Our explanations indicate how these methods can be used to evaluate glomerular hypertrophy, tubular and vascular injury, accumulation of inflammatory cells and myofibroblasts, deposition of extracellular matrix, and the development of renal scarring.
Polyomavirus nephropathy in renal allograft: Prevalence and correlation of histology with graft failure
Authors: WEN MEI‐CHIN , LIAN JONG‐DA , CHANG HORNG‐RANG , SHU KUO‐HSIUNG , WU MING‐JU , CHEN CHENG‐HSU , JAN YEE‐JEE , WANG JOHN , CHANG DECHING
Published: November 2007

Background:  While polyomavirus nephropathy (PVN) is recognized as an emerging cause of graft loss in renal transplants, the prevalence rate of PVN in renal grafts is unclear in Taiwan.

Methods:  Biopsies (n = 412) from 323 Taiwanese renal transplant patients were retrospectively analysed. PVN was diagnosed by the characteristic viropathic change in epithelial cells under light microscopic examination and a positive immunohistochemistry staining of anti‐SV40 large T antigen. The viral cytopathic changes, interstitial inflammation, fibrosis and tubular atrophy were semiquantitatively assessed, based on the Banff 1997 classification and scoring for renal allograft.

Results:  Seventeen cases were identified with evidence of PVN; the prevalence rate is 5.26%. Compared with non‐PVN patients, they were more likely to have had previous rejection episodes, higher graft loss and shorter graft survival.

Conclusion:  This retrospective study showed that we have similar findings to other reports with at least 5% prevalence of PVN and that patients diagnosed early do better, while those diagnosed with severe inflammation or damage do worse or are likely to lose their grafts.
Polycystic kidney disease and the renal cilium (Review Article)
Authors: DEANE JAMES A , RICARDO SHARON D
Published: November 2007

SUMMARY:  Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a common genetic condition characterized by the formation of fluid‐filled cysts in the kidney. Mutations affecting several genes are known to cause PKD and the protein products of most of these genes localize to an organelle called the renal cilium. Renal cilia are non‐motile, microtubule‐based projections located on the apical surface of the epithelial cells that form the tubules and ducts of the kidney. With the exception of intercalated cells, each epithelial cell bears a single non‐motile cilium that projects into the luminal space where it is thought to act as a flow sensor. The detection of fluid flow through the kidney by the renal cilium is hypothesized to regulate a number of pathways responsible for the maintenance of normal epithelial phenotype. Defects of the renal cilium lead to cyst formation, caused primarily by the dedifferentiation and over‐proliferation of epithelial cells. Here we discuss the role of renal cilia and the mechanisms by which defects of this organelle are thought to lead to PKD.
Karnofsky performance score in acute renal failure as a predictor of short‐term survival
Authors: PEREZ VALDIVIESO JOSE RAMON , BES‐RASTROLLO MAIRA , MONEDERO PABLO , DE IRALA JOKIN , JAVIER LAVILLA FRANCISCO
Published: November 2007

Background: Karnofsky Performance Scale Index (KPS) is a measure of functional status that allows patients to be classified according to their functional impairment. We aim to assess if the prior KPS may predict the risk of death among patients with acute renal failure (ARF).

Methods: A cohort of 668 consecutive patients who had been admitted in an university‐affiliated hospital between June 2000 and June 2006, and had been diagnosed with ARF, were studied. Three hundred and eighty‐six patients with ARF who matched at least one of the RIFLE (Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss and End stage) criteria on increased serum creatinine were included for subsequent analysis. The group was divided into four categories, according to different Karnofsky scores measured by a nephrologist (≥80, 70, 60 and ≤50). We used an adjusted logistic regression model to assess the relationship between the Karnofky score and mortality.

Results: A significant risk of in‐hospital mortality within 90 days was observed when the other groups were compared with the ≥80 Karnofsky group. Adjusted odds ratios were 8.87 (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.03–25.99), 6.78 (95% CI 2.61–17.58) and 2.83 (95% CI 1.04–7.68), for Karnofsky groups of ≤50, 60 and 70, respectively. An adjusted odds ratio of 1.75 (95% CI 1.37–2.23) was observed for every 10 point decrease in KPS score.

Conclusion: Functional status as indicated by the KPS is an independent predictor of death in this cohort of patients with ARF. Patients who presented lower scores had increased mortality rates.
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 involvement in the development of renal interstitial fibrosis after unilateral ureteral obstruction
Authors: KURATSUNE MASATOSHI , MASAKI TAKAO , HIRAI TAKAYUKI , KIRIBAYASHI KEI , YOKOYAMA YUKIO , ARAKAWA TETSUJI , YORIOKA NORIAKI , KOHNO NOBUOKI
Published: November 2007

Background:  In vitro studies suggest that the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) plays a critical role in renal fibrosis. However, the process of STAT activation in vivo remains unclear. This study in rats aimed to localize STAT3 activation within the kidney and examine the in vivo relationship between STAT3 activation and renal fibrosis.

Methods:  Unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) was induced in the rats and the kidneys examined 3 or 7 days after obstruction. Activation of STAT3 in western blot and immunohistochemical analyses was identified by the phosphorylated form of STAT3 (pSTAT3).

Results:  Myofibroblasts were identified by α‐smooth muscle actin expression and were upregulated in obstructed kidneys. pSTAT3 was localized mainly in tubular epithelial cells of collecting ducts in normal and obstructed kidneys and interstitial cells in obstructed kidneys. After UUO, western blotting showed a fourfold increase in pSTAT3, with a peak at day 7. Immunostaining showed a sixfold increase in pSTAT3 at day 7 in tubular epithelial cells and a 2500‐fold increase at day 7 in interstitial cells.

Conclusion:  STAT3 was activated in rat tubular epithelial cells and myofibroblasts after UUO, suggesting that STAT3 may contribute to the progression of interstitial fibrosis.
Conversion of cyclosporine to tacrolimus in stable renal allograft recipients: Quantification of effects on the severity of gingival enlargement and hirsutism and patient‐reported outcomes
Authors: WALKER ROWAN G , COTTRELL STEPHEN , SHARP KATHLEEN , TRIPODI ROSAMARIA , NICHOLLS KATHY M , FRASER IAN , VARIGOS GEORGE A , BUTCHER BELINDA E
Published: November 2007

Background:  Cyclosporine‐induced side‐effects such as gum enlargement and hirsutism potentially limit its effectiveness as a calcineurin‐antagonist if these effects contribute to a lack of compliance. Although the differences in incidence of these effects are widely recognized, few studies are available to show the extent of reduced gum enlargement and hirsutism in patients converted from cyclosporine to tacrolimus. This study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety and patient‐reported outcomes of such conversions.

Methods:  Twenty‐one consecutive cyclosporine‐treated renal‐transplant recipients with evidence of gingival enlargement were randomized into two arms: 10 continued to receive cyclosporine, 11 were converted to tacrolimus. Mean differences (0–3, 0–6, 0–9 and 0–12 months) in periodontal indices (gingival inflammation, plaque, pocket depth, gingival enlargement), hirsutism, serum creatinine and glucose and subjective differences in the patient's rating of disfigurement due to hirsutism and gingival enlargement were recorded.

Results:  There were no differences in baseline periodontal scores between the two groups. Tacrolimus‐treated subjects had significantly reduced pocket depth and gingival enlargement measures (Pocket Depths: −0.40 ± 0.58 vs 0.30 ± 0.35, P < 0.01; Gingival Enlargement Index: −1.12 ± 0.83 vs−0.10 ± 0.89, P < 0.05; tacrolimus vs cyclosporine, respectively), and decreased subjective disfigurement compared with the cyclosporine‐treated group over the 12 months. While there was no difference in objective hirsutism scores between the two groups, tacrolimus‐treated patients reported a significant improvement and cyclosporine‐treated patients a significant worsening in their degree of disfigurement at the end of 12 months. There were no differences in creatinine or glucose levels.

Conclusion:  Conversion from cyclosporine to tacrolimus in stable renal‐transplant recipients with cyclosporine‐induced gingival enlargement can be achieved safely and with measurably good effect.
Treatment of acute corneal hydrops with intracameral C3F8 in a patient of pellucid marginal degeneration with keratoglobus
Authors: Kaushal Sameer , Sharma Namrata , Vajpayee Rasik B
Published: November 2007

Abstract

We report the use of perfluoropropane (C3F8) gas for the treatment of acute hydrops with intrastromal cleft in a case of pellucid marginal degeneration with keratoglobus. Acute hydrops in a 36‐year‐old man with pellucid marginal degeneration with keratoglobus was treated with intracameral injection of 0.3 mL isoexpansile C3F8 (14%). Reduction in corneal haze was seen beginning from the third postoperative day. Significant clearing had taken place by the end of the second week with the closure of intrastromal cleft. Best corrected visual acuity improved from finger counting at 1 foot preoperatively to 6/18 after 2 weeks. There was no postoperative rise in intraocular pressure or cataract formation. Intracameral injection of C3F8 may possibly be a viable treatment option for acute hydrops in a case of corneal ectasia. Larger studies are required to clarify the role of intracameral gas injection in the treatment of acute hydrops in corneal ectasia.
Two‐step oblique incision during 25‐gauge vitrectomy reduces incidence of postoperative hypotony
Authors: Inoue Makoto , Shinoda Kei , Shinoda Hajime , Kawamura Ryosuke , Suzuki Kotaro , Ishida Susumu
Published: November 2007

Abstract

The efficacy of a two‐step, oblique incision procedure during 25‐gauge vitrectomy on postoperative hypotony was evaluated by a retrospective, case–control study. The transconjunctival incision during 25‐gauge vitrectomy was made in two steps: penetration with a microvitreoretinal blade followed by a penetrater instrument of a blunt trocar. The two‐step procedure was performed on 89 eyes and with the conventional incision on 68 eyes. The incidence of hypotony (intraocular pressure <6 mmHg) on the first postoperative day and after 1 week and 1 month was compared. Hypotony was found in two eyes (2%) with the two‐step method and 12 eyes (18%) with the conventional incision on the first postoperative day (P = 0.001, Fisher's exact probability test). The preoperative intraocular pressure was not significantly different in the two groups but was significantly higher in the two‐step group than in the conventional method group on the first postoperative day (P = 0.001, Wilcoxon rank test). Twenty‐five‐gauge vitrectomy with two‐step oblique incisions will reduce the incidence of postoperative hypotony on the first postoperative day.
Clinical Case Notes
Authors: Muthiah Manickam Nick , Day Alexander C , Singh Ravinder P , Malik Nabeel , Adams Matt E , Olver Jane M
Published: November 2007

Abstract

Sudden onset nonaxial proptosis and diplopia is alarming and orbital haemorrhage or a rapidly expanding orbital tumour should be excluded. We present a case of a young man aged 15 years who attended the Accident and Emergency Department with a 6‐h history of sudden onset proptosis and diplopia in whom the aetiology was orbital emphysema.
Photographic Essay
Authors: Lau Flora HS , Wong Amy L , Lam Philip TH , Lam Dennis SC
Published: November 2007

Abstract

Capsular block syndrome (CBS) or capsular bag distension syndrome is characterized by distension of the capsular bag after uneventful phacoemulsification and endocapsular intraocular lens implantation. The syndrome has also been reported after extracapsular cataract extraction and intraocular lens placed in the sulcus. We report the anterior segment optical coherence tomographic findings in a case of early postoperative CBS. Anterior segment optical coherence tomographic aids in the diagnosis and management of CBS.
Scleral infiltration in orbitotemporal plexiform neurofibromatosis
Authors: Then Siew‐Yin , De Sousa Jean‐Louis , Chandrasekharan Lekha , Francis Ian , Malhotra Raman
Published: November 2007

Abstract

We report a case of severe orbitotemporal plexiform neurofibromatosis with a unique observation of clinically evident scleral infiltration, without uveal involvement, in a non‐buphthalmic eye. We emphasize the importance of recognizing this before debulking surgery.
Comparison of posterior capsule opacification in rabbits receiving either mitomycin‐C or distilled water for sealed‐capsule irrigation during cataract surgery
Authors: Kim Su‐Young , Kim Jin‐Hyung , Choi Jun‐Sub , Joo Choun‐Ki
Published: November 2007

Abstract

Purpose:  To compare posterior capsule opacification (PCO) in rabbits who undergo cataract surgery and receive either mitomycin‐C (MMC) or distilled water (DW) during sealed‐capsule irrigation (SCI). In addition, we examined the toxicity of DW and MMC.

Methods:  Twenty‐four eyes from 12 rabbits were divided into three groups. Balanced salt solution (BSS), DW, MMC 0.4 mg/mL was injected into the capsular bag for 2 min after endocapsular phacoemulsification and insertion of a SCI device. The degree of PCO was assessed by POCOman software at 3 months post surgery. Central corneal thickness, anterior chamber inflammation were assessed 1 day, 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 1 month and 3 months postoperatively.

Results:  A statistically significant difference in PCO scores was noted between the control and study groups (P < 0.05). The PCO scores of the MMC group were significantly lower than those of the DW group (P < 0.05). The MMC and DW groups did not show significant toxicity compared with the BSS group.

Conclusions:  MMC is more effective in reducing PCO than DW; the SCI device can protect the surrounding ocular tissue from MMC toxicity in rabbit eyes.
Abnormalities of visual‐evoked potentials and pupillary light reflexes in a family with autosomal dominant occult macular dystrophy
Authors: Okuno Takashi , Oku Hidehiro , Kondo Mineo , Miyake Yozo , Sugasawa Jun , Utsumi Takashi , Ikeda Tsunehiko
Published: November 2007

Abstract

Occult macular dystrophy (OMD) is an unusual inherited or sporadic macular dystrophy characterized by an essentially normal appearing ocular fundus and normal ocular circulation determined by fluorescein angiography but with a progressive decrease of visual acuity. We present a family with OMD who have a delay in the implicit times of both the visual‐evoked potentials and the pupillary light reflexes. Because these delays are usually indicative of optic nerve disorders, deciding on a diagnosis between OMD and optic nerve disorder should be done carefully. We are not aware of any studies that have reported these findings in patients with OMD.
A prospective randomized treatment study comparing three treatment options for chalazia: triamcinolone acetonide injections, incision and curettage and treatment with hot compresses
Authors: Goawalla Amynah , Lee Vickie
Published: November 2007

Abstract

Background:  Three methods of treating chalazia were compared: intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injections (0.2 mL of 10 mg/mL), incision and curettage and advice regarding the application of hot compresses to the affected eyelid.

Methods:  This was a single centre randomized treatment study. Patients with a chalazion underwent either of the three treatment options. Chalazion resolution, pain, satisfaction and inconvenience experienced because of treatments were the outcomes assessed via a telephone interview at 3 weeks.

Results:  136 consecutive patients were enrolled into the study. At the 3‐week follow up, the resolution rates in the triamcinolone acetonide injection and surgical treatment groups were not significantly different from each other at 84% (47/56) and 87% (39/45), respectively (P < 0.001), but was significantly lower in the conservative treatment group at 46% (16/35) (P < 0.001). Pain scores were higher in the surgical treatment group compared with the triamcinolone injection group (P < 0.003). Inconvenience experienced by patients was reported as significantly less in the triamcinolone group compared with the conservative and surgical treatment groups (P < 0.001). Patient satisfaction scores were lower in the conservative treatment group compared with each of the other two groups which in turn, were no different from each other regarding this outcome (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:  To our knowledge, this is the first prospective randomized study comparing the three methods of chalazia treatment. Results suggest that a single triamcinolone acetonide injection followed by lid massage is almost as effective as incision and curettage in the treatment of chalazia and with similar patient satisfaction and less pain and patient inconvenience.
Risk factors for primary open‐angle glaucoma in a Burmese population: the Meiktila Eye Study
Authors: Casson Robert J , Gupta Aanchal , Newland Henry S , McGovern Steve , Muecke James , Selva Dinesh , Aung Than
Published: November 2007

Abstract

Purpose:  To report the risk factors associated with primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG) in the Burmese population.

Methods:  The Meiktila Eye study, a population‐based cross‐sectional study, included inhabitants 40 years of age and over from villages in the Meiktila District. Of 2481 eligible participants identified, 2076 participated in the study and sufficient examination data to diagnose glaucoma in at least one eye was obtained in 1997 participants. The ophthalmic examination included slit‐lamp examination, tonometry, gonioscopy and dilated stereoscopic fundus examination. Definitions adhered to the International Society for Geographic and Epidemiological Ophthalmology's recommendations. Univariate and multivariate analyses of potential risk factors were performed.

Results:  The overall prevalence of POAG was 2.0% (95% CI 0.9–3.1). In the univariate analysis, increasing age (P = 0.024), spherical equivalent (P = 0.01), axial length (P = 0.023) and intraocular pressure (IOP; P < 0.001) were significantly associated with POAG. And in the multivariate analysis, myopia <0.5 D (P = 0.049), increasing age and IOP (P < 0.001) were significant risk factors for POAG.

Conclusion:  POAG in this Burmese population was associated with increasing age, axial myopia and IOP.
Acanthamoeba keratitis related to cosmetic contact lenses
Authors: Lee Jong Soo , Hahn Tae Won , Choi Si Hwan , Yu Hak Sun , Lee Ji‐Eun
Published: November 2007

Abstract

We report a rare case of Acanthamoeba keratitis related to cosmetic contact lenses in both eyes. A 17‐year‐old girl with a history of wearing cosmetic contact lenses presented with keratitis. She purchased cosmetic contact lenses via the Internet, and followed a contact lens care system irregularly, occasionally using tap water. Cell culture was performed on samples collected from a corneal scraping, the contact lenses and the storage cases. The isolated organism was Acanthamoeba. The patient was treated with polyhexamethylene biguanide and chlorhexidine for 3 months, and recovered with normal visual acuity. Poor hygiene and insufficient disinfection may be major risk factors for Acanthameoba keratitis in cosmetic contact lens wearers. The cosmetic contact lens user should receive professional advice before accessing the lenses, and this must be communicated to the public.
Mental health nursing students differ from other nursing students: Some observations from a study on stress and coping
Authors: Pryjmachuk Steven , Richards David A.
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACT:  The study reported here is taken from a wider investigation into stress among preregistration nursing students, undertaken in the nursing department of a large university in northern England. British nursing is divided into four specialties or ‘branches’: adult, mental health, children's, and learning disability nursing, and the aim of the study was to explore interbranch differences among the students in terms of the sources of stress they identify, the levels of stress they experience, and the ways in which they cope. A cross‐sectional survey of all nursing students on the department's roll (n = 1362), using a range of self‐report measures bound together in a ‘questionnaire pack’, was undertaken. The questionnaire pack contained formal measures of sources of stress (Student Nurse Stress Index), stress (specifically, psychological distress) (General Health Questionnaire) and coping (Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations), as well as a set of questions that enabled data on a range of pertinent variables, including the nursing branch being pursued, to be collected. The findings revealed that mental health nurses were notably different from the other three branches in terms of the quantity and characteristics of the sources of stress they faced, the levels of stress they experienced, and the ways in which they coped. These differences were largely advantageous to the students' well‐being and speculations are made as to whether the concept of ‘hardiness’– especially its focus on a sense of being in control – plays a role in explaining the findings.
De novo urinary stress incontinence after laparoscopic sacral colpopexy
Authors: Misraï Vincent , Rouprêt Morgan , Cour Florence , Chartier‐Kastler Emmanuel , Richard François
Published: November 2007

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the incidence and the risk of developing de novo stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after laparoscopic sacral colpopexy (LSCP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 53 women wit no concomitant or occult SUI before surgery had a LSCP with no anti‐incontinence procedure. All their medical charts were reviewed retrospectively and analysed statistically to assess the association between clinical data before LSCP (age, body mass index, maximum urethral closure pressure, medical history of UI and prolapse surgery, bladder neck hypermobility) and de novo SUI after LSCP.

RESULTS

With a mean (sd) follow up of 20.4 (9.1) months, seven patients (13%) developed de novo SUI, within a median (range) of 2.1 (1–3) months after surgery. There was no statistical association between factors before LSCP and de novo SUI afterward on a univariate analysis (P > 0.05). The 5‐year SUI‐free survival rate after LSCP was 86%.

CONCLUSION

Despite the risk of de novo SUI remaining low after LSCP patients should always be informed before surgery, as it cannot be predicted. Moreover, it can directly affect the functional outcome and lead to a second procedure in a few cases.
Leadership Harvard Style
Authors: Bouwhuis Stephen
Published: November 2007

The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard is teaching a new approach to leadership. This article outlines some of the elements of this approach and contrasts them with standard models on leadership in the literature.
Social Capital and Public Policy – The Current Challenge Facing the Victorian Government
Authors: Tittensor David
Published: November 2007

Social capital, since Putnam's 1993 work, has captured the imagination of policy‐makers the world over, and Australia is no exception. In 2005 the Department of Victorian Communities launched its Actions for Community Strengthening policy statement, which draws heavily on social capital theory. This article explores the theoretical underpinnings of the government's policy and critiques its failure to deal adequately with the causal relationship between social capital and its supposed community benefits. The article then seeks to isolate the missing factors through a look at recent research on volunteerism and argues that the institution of collaborative/interactive governance needs to be underpinned by sound socio‐economic reform.
The Impact of the Australian Government Job Network Contracting on Not‐for‐Profit Service Providers
Authors: Rogers Colette
Published: November 2007

This article examines the impact of Australian government contracting for the provision of Job Network services on not‐for‐profit organisations1. The term not‐for‐profit is used to categorise organisations which are variously described as non‐government, non‐profit, community and third sector organisations (

Lyons 2001

).