bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Luminous K-band selected quasars from UKIDSS
Authors: Maddox Natasha , Hewett Paul C. , Warren S. J. , Croom S. M.
Published: April 2008

The largest K-band flux-limited sample of luminous quasars to date has been constructed from the UKIRT (UK Infrared Telescope) Infrared Deep Sky Survey (UKIDSS) Large Area Survey Early Data Release, covering an effective area of 12.8 deg2. Exploiting the K-band excess (KX) of all quasars with respect to foreground stars, including quasars experiencing dust reddening and objects with non-standard spectral energy distributions (SEDs), a list of targets suitable for spectroscopic follow-up observations with the AAOmega multi-object spectrograph is constructed, resulting in more than 200 confirmed active galactic nuclei (AGN). KX selection successfully identifies as quasar candidates objects that are excluded from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) quasar selection algorithm due to their colours being consistent with the stellar locus in optical colour space (with the space density of the excluded objects agreeing well with results from existing completeness analyses). Nearly half of the KX-selected quasars with K≤ 17.0 at z < 3 are too faint in the i band to have been targeted by the SDSS quasar selection algorithm, revealing a large population of quasars with red i−K colours. The majority of these objects have significant amounts of host galaxy light contributing to their K-band magnitudes, consistent with previous predictions. The remaining objects are morphologically stellar and have colours consistent with quasars experiencing Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC)-type reddening with 0.10 < E(B−V) < 0.25. The i−K colour distribution indicates that <10 per cent of the quasar population is missing from this K-band selected sample due to dust reddening, and comparisons with simulations strongly favour an obscured fraction of <20 per cent. Photometric redshifts and classifications are computed for the candidates that were not observed spectroscopically. For the extended objects whose colours are consistent with those of a reddened quasar, models of galaxy surface brightness profiles appropriate for each object are used to eliminate the possibility of the presence of a nuclear source bright enough for inclusion in a K≤ 17.0 quasar sample. The effectiveness of near-infrared colour selection of quasars has been demonstrated by this modest-sized sample, and it will only become more apparent as the amount of available data increases.
Homogeneous studies of transiting extrasolar planets – I. Light-curve analyses
Authors: Southworth John
Published: April 2008

I present a homogeneous analysis of the transit light curves of 14 well-observed transiting extrasolar planets. The light curves are modelled using jktebop, random errors are measured using Monte Carlo simulations and the effects of correlated noise are included using a residual-permutation algorithm. The importance of stellar limb darkening on the light-curve solutions and parameter uncertainties is investigated using five different limb darkening laws and including different numbers of coefficients as fitted parameters. The linear limb darkening law cannot adequately fit the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) photometry of HD 209458, but the other four laws give very similar results to each other for all transit light curves. In most cases fixing the limb darkening coefficients at theoretically predicted values does not bias the results, but does cause the error estimates to be too small. The available theoretical limb darkening coefficients clearly disagree with empirical values measured from the HST light curves of HD 209458; limb darkening must be included as fitted parameters when analysing high-quality light curves.

In most cases the results of my analysis agree with the values found by other authors, but the uncertainties I find can be significantly larger (by factors of up to 3). Despite these greater uncertainty estimates, the analyses of sets of independent light curves for both HD 189733 and HD 209458 lead to results which do not agree with each other. This discrepancy is worst for the ratio of the radii (6.7σ for HD 189733 and 3.7σ for HD 209458), which depends primarily on the depth of the transit. It is therefore not due to the analysis method but is present in the light curves. These underlying systematic errors cannot be detected from the reduced data alone unless at least three independent light curves are available for an individual planetary system.

The surface gravities of transiting extrasolar planets are known to be correlated with their orbital periods. New surface gravity values, calculated from the light-curve results and the stellar spectroscopic orbits, show that this correlation is still present. New high-precision light curves are needed for HD 149026, OGLE-TR-10, OGLE-TR-56, OGLE-TR-132 and GJ 436, and new radial velocity curves for the XO-1, WASP-1, WASP-2 and the OGLE (Optical Gravitational Lensing Experiment) planetary systems.
The trials and tribulations of drug development for functional gastrointestinal disorders
Authors: Chang L.
Published: April 2008

Abstract  Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) are common conditions seen in primary care and specialty practices but many affected individuals report a lack of satisfaction with available treatments. Despite the unmet need for more effective pharmacotherapy, drug development for these conditions can be challenging on many levels. This review will discuss the rationale and challenges of drug development for FGID. The reasons for engaging in drug development include that these conditions are highly prevalent, associated with a significant economic and healthcare burden, and associated with a lack of satisfaction with current therapies. The challenges include the lack of perception that FGID are legitimate disorders, the multidimensional and complex pathophysiology of FGID, the lack of a biological marker for diagnosis and treatment response, the heterogeneity of the patient population, the lack of consensus regarding the best outcome measures for clinical trials and the perceived increased risk–benefit ratio associated with drugs for FGID. Ongoing efforts are being taken to work towards a better understanding of pathophysiology, illness severity, patient‐reported outcome measures, and benefit : risk assessment, and towards increasing education and communication amongst patients, clinicians, investigators, industry and regulatory agencies which will hopefully help optimize drug development strategies for FGID.
A 20‐year perspective – from Journal of Gastrointestinal Motility to Neurogastroenterology and Motility
Authors: Wingate D. L.
Published: April 2008

Abstract  This review traces the origins of this journal as the consequence of a revolution in academic publishing that started in Oxford 50 years ago. It also traces the expansion of the field of gastrointestinal motility by the development of new methodology that prompted both the creation of learned societies and a role for a journal devoted to this field. The problems that arose because the new journal was an ‘orphan journal’ lacking a parent society are recounted, as are the events that eventually led to its adoption. Finally, the introduction of the term ‘neurogastroenterology’ into scientific and clinical parlance is explained.
Pathogenesis of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease and novel options for its therapy
Authors: Dent J.
Published: April 2008

Abstract  Better understanding of the mechanisms that lead to reflux disease is an important area for future research, given the very high prevalence of this problem. During the lifetime of this journal, much has been learnt about the pathophysiology of reflux disease. Abnormally, frequent acid reflux plays a key role in pathogenesis: this reflux occurs predominantly during transient lower oesophageal sphincter relaxations. Analysis of the literature suggests that the importance of transient relaxations as the major permissive event for occurrence of acid reflux is currently substantially underestimated. ‘Transient relaxation’ is an inexact descriptor, as this motor programme includes inhibition of the diaphragmatic hiatus and distal oesophageal body circular muscle and contraction of the oesophageal longitudinal muscle. Laxity of the diaphragmatic hiatus and hiatus hernia are probably important factors that increase the probability for acid reflux to occur during transient relaxations and in allowing strain‐induced reflux episodes. The importance of straining and low basal tone of the lower oesophageal sphincter in causing abnormal reflux has probably been overestimated, but these need more investigation. High resolution manometry is the key method for acquisition of important new insights into the normal and disordered mechanics of the antireflux function of the gastro‐oesophageal junction, but as yet, the potential of this technique has been tapped relatively little. In the future, improved understanding of the mechanics of the gastro‐oesophageal junction should lead to improved physical antireflux procedures. Much progress has been made in defining the control of transient relaxations and this has been translated into several promising options for a new class of drug that treats reflux disease by inhibition of transient relaxations. Clinical trials on these agents appear imminent.
Vagal and hormonal gut–brain communication: from satiation to satisfaction
Authors: Berthoud H.‐r.
Published: April 2008

Abstract Studying communication between the gut and the brain is as relevant and exciting as it has been since Pavlov’s discoveries a century ago. Although the efferent limb of this communication has witnessed significant advances, it is the afferent, or sensory, limb that has recently made for exciting news. It is now clear that signals from the gut are crucial for the control of appetite and the regulation of energy balance, glucose homeostasis, and more. Ghrelin, discovered just a few years ago, is the first gut hormone that increases appetite, and it may be involved in eating disorders. The stable analogue of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 has rapidly advanced to one of the most promising treatment options for type‐2 diabetes. Changes in the signalling patterns of these and other gut hormones best explain the remarkable capacity of gastric bypass surgery to lower food intake and excess body weight. Given the enormous societal implications of the obesity epidemic, these are no small feats. Together with the older gut hormone cholecystokinin and abundant vagal mechanosensors, the gut continuously sends information to the brain regarding the quality and quantity of ingested nutrients, not only important for satiation and meal termination, but also for the appetitive phase of ingestive behaviour and the patterning of meals within given environmental constraints. By acting not only on brainstem and hypothalamus, this stream of sensory information from the gut to the brain is in a position to generate a feeling of satisfaction and happiness as observed after a satiating meal and exploited in vagal afferent stimulation for depression.
The journey to establish purinergic signalling in the gut
Authors: Burnstock G.
Published: April 2008

Abstract  Although the concept of purinergic signalling arose from experiments designed to find the identity of the non‐adrenergic, non‐cholinergic (NANC) inhibitory neurotransmitter in the gut, it has taken many years for the more general importance of the various roles of ATP as a physiological messenger in the gut to be recognized. Firstly, vasoactive intestitial polypeptide (VIP) and later nitric oxide (NO) were considered the NANC transmitter and it was only later, after the concept of cotransmission was established, that ATP, NO and VIP were recognized as cotransmitters in NANC nerves, although the proportions vary in different gut regions. Recently, many purinoceptor subtypes have been identified on myenteric, submucosal motor, sensory and interneurons involved in synaptic neurotransmission and neuromodulation and reflex activity of several kinds, including ascending excitatory and descending inhibitory reflex pathways. Nucleotide receptors have been shown to be expressed on enteric glial cells and interstitial cells of Cajal. Purinergic mechanosensory transduction, involving release of ATP from mucosal epithelial cells during distension to stimulate subepithelial nerve endings of intrinsic and extrinsic sensory nerves to modulate peristalsis and initiate nociception respectively, is attracting current attention. Exciting new areas of interest about purinergic signalling in the gut include: involvement of purines in development, ageing and regeneration, including the role of stem cells; studies of the involvement of nucleotides in the activity of the gut of invertebrates and lower vertebrates; and the pathophysiology of enteric purinergic signalling in diseases including irritable bowel syndrome, postoperative ileus, oesophageal reflux, constipation, diarrhoea, diabetes, Chaga’s and Hirschprung’s disease.
Postinflammatory visceral sensitivity and pain mechanisms
Authors: Vergnolle N.
Published: April 2008

Abstract  The inflammatory reaction is normally tightly regulated, and as soon as the original insult has been cleared, a resolution phase starts that aims at leading the tissues back to a normal physiological state. However, after intestinal inflammation, a number of patients develop postinflammatory hypersensitivity symptoms, which can be defined as an excessive sensitivity to gut nociceptive stimulation. The pain experienced by those patients has been largely studied in the context of postinfectious intestinal diseases. The mechanisms of postinflammatory persistent visceral pain involve peripheral and central neuroplastic changes, low‐grade chronic inflammation that sensitizes visceral afferent pathways and sensitization of non‐neuronal resident cells of the gut. Several molecular determinants such as neurokinins, serotonin, proteases and voltage‐gated ion channels seem to play a significant role in the control of postinflammatory visceral sensation. This review tries to give insights into the mechanisms of persistent visceral pain following the resolution of intestinal inflammation and tries to identify what needs to be done to further advance the field of postinflammatory hypersensitivity clinical management.
Toll‐like Receptor Cross‐hyporesponsiveness is Functional in Interleukin‐1‐receptor‐associated Kinase‐1 (IRAK‐1)‐deficient Macrophages: Differential Role Played by IRAK‐1 in Regulation of Tumour Necrosis Factor and Interleukin‐10 Production
Authors: Berglund M. , Thomas J. A. , Hörnquist E. H. , Hultgren O. H.
Published: April 2008

Signalling downstream Toll‐like receptors (TLR) is regulated at several levels in order to activate the immune response and prevent excessive inflammation. Altered intracellular signalling may be one reason that repeated stimulation of various TLRs results in hyporesponsiveness and cross‐tolerance. We report that TLR cross‐tolerance is inducible in the absence of interleukin‐1 receptor‐associated kinase‐1 (IRAK‐1) in peritoneal macrophages. Similar to wild‐type macrophages, IRAK‐1‐deficient macrophages respond with decreased tumour necrosis factor (TNF) production to a secondary TLR stimulation, but in opposite to IRAK‐1+/+, IRAK‐1−/− macrophages display increased interleukin (IL)‐10 production at TLR restimulation. IRAK‐1‐deficient peritoneal macrophages have a defective TNF and IL‐10 production in response to lipoteichoic acid stimulation as well as a defective IL‐10‐but a normal TNF production in response to high concentration of lipopolysaccharide. Our results demonstrate that IRAK‐1 is not necessary for induction of TLR cross‐tolerance as judged by TNF production.
Prolonged Eosinophil Production after Allergen Exposure in IFN‐γR KO Mice is IL‐5 Dependent
Authors: Zhao L.‐L. , Lötvall J. , Lindén A. , Tomaki M. , Sjöstrand M. , Bossios A.
Published: April 2008

Asthma is a T helper 2 (Th2)‐driven inflammatory process characterized by eosinophilia. Prolonged airway eosinophilia is commonly observed in asthma exacerbations. Our aim was to evaluate whether eosinophilia in prolonged allergic inflammation is associated with a continuous supply of new eosinophils to the airways, and how this is regulated. Ovalbumin (OVA)‐sensitized interferon‐γ receptor knockout mice (IFN‐γR KO), known to maintain a long‐lasting eosinophilia after allergen exposure, were compared to wild type (wt) controls. Animals were exposed to OVA or phosphate‐buffered saline on three consecutive days, and bone marrow (BM), blood and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples were collected 24 h, 7 and 21 days later. Newly produced cells were labelled using bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU). Serum IL‐5 was measured and its role was investigated by administration of a neutralizing anti‐IL‐5 antibody. In‐vitro eosinophilopoiesis was examined in both groups by a colony‐forming assay. Allergen challenge increased eosinophils in BM, blood and BAL, in both IFN‐γR KO and wt mice, both 24 h and 7 days after the last allergen exposure. At 21 days after the last exposure, only IFN‐γR KO mice maintained significantly increased eosinophil numbers. Approximately 50% of BAL granulocytes in IFN‐γR KO were produced during the last 6 days. Interleukin (IL)‐5 concentration was increased in IFN‐γR KO mice, and anti‐IL‐5 reduced eosinophil numbers in all compartments. Increased numbers of eosinophil colonies were observed in IFN‐γR KO mice after allergen exposure versus controls. In this model of a Th2‐driven prolonged allergic eosinophilia, new eosinophils contribute to the extended inflammation in the airways by enhanced BM eosinophilopoiesis in an IL‐5‐dependent manner.
Aire Deficiency Causes Increased Susceptibility to Streptozotocin‐induced Murine Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Hässler S. , Peltonen L. , Sandler S. , Winqvist O.
Published: April 2008

Aire‐deficient mice are a model of the human monogenic disorder autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type I (APS I) characterized by a progressive autoimmune destruction of multiple endocrine glands such as the adrenal cortex, the parathyroids and the β‐cells of the pancreas. The disease is caused by mutations in the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene, a putative transcription factor expressed in thymic medullary epithelial cells and in antigen‐presenting cells of the myeloid lineage in peripheral lymphoid organs. As Aire−/− mice do not spontaneously develop endocrinopathies, we wanted to evaluate the autoimmune multiple low‐dose streptozotocin (MLDSTZ) diabetes model in Aire−/− mice. Surprisingly, Aire heterozygote mice were most susceptible to MLDSTZ‐induced diabetes, whereas Aire−/− mice displayed an intermediate sensitivity to diabetes. Furthermore, Aire−/− macrophages produced higher levels of TNF‐α and lower levels of IL‐10 following streptozotocin stimulation, and Aire−/− mice developed a higher frequency of islet cells autoantibodies as a sign of increased activation. However, the number of islet infiltrating F4/80+ Aire−/− macrophages was significantly decreased which was attributed to an increased susceptibility to streptozotocin cytotoxicity of Aire−/− macrophages. In conclusion, Aire−/− macrophages display an increased activation after STZ stimuli, but suffer from increased susceptibility to STZ cytotoxicity. These results support an important function of Aire in the control of peripheral tolerance through myeloid antigen‐presenting cells.
How often should a red blood cell administration set be changed while a patient is being transfused? A commentary and review of the literature
Authors: Blest A. , Roberts M. , Murdock J. , Watson D. , Brunskill S.
Published: April 2008

summary Current recommendations vary with regard to the frequency of change of a red blood cell (RBC) administration set. A full review was undertaken to evaluate the recommendations for how often a RBC administration set should be changed while a patient is being transfused. Comprehensive searches of Medline, Embase, Cinahl, the Cochrane Library, handsearching of transfusion journals, guidelines and websites and contact with administration set manufacturers identified 32 relevant papers: 11 clinical updates; 11 guidelines; 5 manufacturer data sheets; 3 standards; 1 Department of Health report and 1 expert opinion. Recommendations varied widely across papers. There was no pattern in recommendation by paper type, date or country of origin. Recommendations were based on change of RBC administration set either after a given number of hours or number of RBC units. The recommendations varied widely and ranged from 4 to 48 h and from ‘every unit’ to ‘several units’. The most frequent recommendations were change of RBC administration set after 12 h or 4 units. Methodological quality of the included papers is poor. There is no formal evidence base on which to support current recommendations or challenge the current British Committee for Standards in Haematology guideline. Targeted research aimed at establishing an evidence base may be warranted and would need to document other variables that can impact frequency of change, including type of filter, age of blood and duration of RBC transfusion.
Frequency of partial D in Western India
Authors: Kulkarni S. , Colah R. , Gorakshakar A. , Gupte S. , Vasantha K. , Mohanty D. , Ghosh K.
Published: April 2008

summary Partial D is of clinical importance as the partial D‐positive individuals who lack some epitopes of D antigen can develop anti‐D if exposed to normal D antigen. The frequency of partial D varies in different populations. The majority of molecular studies on D variants have been reported in European, African and some East Asian populations, but no study has been reported in the Indian population so far. The aim of the study was to screen Indian population for detection of partial D by serology and classify them by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (M‐PCR). The study population, consisting of 10 000 RhD‐positive individuals from West India, was screened for detection of partial D using the partial D kit. In addition to these, blood samples referred because of serological RhD discrepant results from blood banks of West India were also investigated. The samples identified as partial D from these two groups were further characterized by M‐PCR. Fifteen partial D cases were identified by population screening and 45 were identified from referred samples. Population screening revealed that one third of partial D was DFR when tested by partial D kit. We were able to classify 63·4 and 76·6% of partial D by partial D kit and M‐PCR, respectively. The incidence of partial D in West India was found to be at least 0·15% when tested with partial D kit. DFR partial D was found to be predominant in the present study.
Transfusion‐associated iron overload as a predictive factor for poor stem cell mobilization in patients with haematological malignancies
Authors: Park I. H. , Kim Y. , Kim J. S. , Cheong J.‐W. , Song J. W. , Min Y. H.
Published: April 2008

summary Transfusion‐associated iron overload is often observed in patients with haematological malignancies. We analysed the effect of iron overload, indicated by high serum ferritin level, on the mobilization of CD34+ peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs). We evaluated the association between the serum ferritin level prior to PBSC collection and the number of CD34+ cells collected through leukapheresis in 51 patients with various haematological malignancies. Patients with serum ferritin level over 1000 ng mL−1 were defined as high‐ferritin group. Comparing the good (≥1 × 106 per kg CD34+ cells) and poor (<1 × 106 per kg CD34+ cells) mobilizing groups, there was no difference in disease status, previous chemotherapies and white blood cell count at the first day of apheresis. However, there was a significant difference in the median units of red blood cell transfused between the good and poor mobilizer (2 vs. 8 units; P = 0·012). Serum ferritin level was notably higher in the poor mobilizer (1670 ± 1320 ng mL−1) compared with the good mobilizer (965 ± 705 ng mL−1, P = 0·035). The cumulative number of CD34+ cells per kg collected during the whole procedure was significantly lower in the high‐ferritin group (5·5 ± 4·7 × 106 per kg vs. 13·1 ± 9·1 × 106 per kg, P = 0·01). Multivariate analysis revealed that serum ferritin level remained as an independent predictive factor for poor PBSC mobilization. Our study indicated that transfusion‐associated iron overload is a predictive factor for poor PBSC mobilization. Iron chelation therapy prior to apheresis may be required to collect sufficient numbers of PBSCs in the iron overload patients.
Fresh frozen plasma transfusion for reversal of prolonged post‐anaesthesia apnoea
Authors: Van Gammeren A. J. , Cobbaert C. M. , Schrauwen C. J. M. , Voets M. A. J. , Ermens A. A. M.
Published: April 2008

summary An 18‐year old woman admitted for tonsillectomy developed prolonged post‐operative paralysis after anaesthesia with mivacurium. Investigation revealed a decreased cholinesterase activity because of a homozygous atypical and heterozygous K variant of the cholinesterase gene. Transfusion of fresh frozen plasma was associated with reversal of the respiratory paralysis and complete recovery.
Diffuse cutaneous mastocytosis in a newborn calf
Authors: Palyada Kiran S. , Scott Danny W. , Schlafer Donald H. , Czajkowski Melissa
Published: April 2008

Previously reported cases of congenital cutaneous mast cell tumours in calves were characterized by multiple discrete nodules. The calf presented herein is, to the authors’ knowledge, the first documented case of congenital diffuse cutaneous mastocytosis. The entire skin was thickened and wrinkled with particularly prominent skin folds on the head, ventrum, and legs. Histological examination of two haired skin specimens (eyelid, muzzle margin) revealed that the dermis was diffusely infiltrated by sheets of neoplastic mast cells.
Cornification defect in the Golden retriever: clinical, histopathological, ultrastructural and genetic characterisation
Authors: Cadiergues Marie‐Christine , Patel Anita , Shearer David H. , Fermor Ruth , Miah Suhel , Hendricks Anke
Published: April 2008

Veterinarians have recognised a nonpruritic skin disease in the Golden retriever breed characterised by excessive scaling of large, variably pigmented flakes of skin in otherwise healthy dogs. This prospective case series describes clinical, histopathological, ultrastructural and genetic features of this cornification defect in 17 affected dogs. The condition affects young dogs of either sex and is characterised by symmetrical, predominantly ventro‐lateral scaling and hyperpigmentation of the trunk. Histopathological and ultrastructural changes of the stratum corneum are suggestive of delayed degradation of corneodesmosomes. A genetic aetiology is proposed and a single‐trait autosomal recessive mode of inheritance discussed.
Role of sucrose in the fitness of Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Kreth J. , Zhu L. , Merritt J. , Shi W. , Qi F.
Published: April 2008

Introduction:  Dental caries has been closely linked to fermentable carbohydrates as key environmental factors. Sucrose has been identified as the most cariogenic carbohydrate. Streptococcus mutans, considered to be the primary pathogen causing dental caries, is able to utilize sucrose as a nutrient source, partially for the production of intracellular storage components and for the production of extracellular glucans via the glucosyltransferases GtfB, GtfC, and GtfD. The following study explores the competitiveness and fitness of S. mutans when grown with different concentrations of sucrose.

Methods:  Growth competition with oral streptococci and antimicrobial susceptibility in static biofilm models grown without sucrose or with 0.1% or 0.5% sucrose were investigated using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The numbers of surviving S. mutans of both wild‐type and an isogenic Gtf‐negative mutant after antimicrobial treatment were determined as colony‐forming units.

Results:  S. mutans was able to establish microcolonies with increasing sucrose concentration in the presence of other streptococcal competitors during biofilm development. The antimicrobial susceptibility decreased when sucrose was available as substrate and was dependent on the presence of the Gtfs.

Conclusion:  The increased resistance against antimicrobial treatment was associated with the availability of sucrose, but was not influenced much by the concentration used during this study. The resistance was strongly associated with the Gtf activity, excluding any intracellular metabolic effect of sucrose in the resistance mechanism.
Diversity of inorganic carbon acquisition mechanisms by intact microbial mats of Microcoleus chthonoplastes (Cyanobacteriae, Oscillatoriaceae)
Authors: Carrasco María , Mercado Jesús M. , Niell Francisco Xavier
Published: April 2008

The dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) acquisition mechanisms were researched in intact microbial mats dominated by the cyanobacteria Microcoleus chthonoplastes Thuret, by determining the effect on photosynthesis of different inhibitors. The microbial mats exhibited high affinity for DIC at alkaline pH, with Km(DIC) values similar to the ones described for pure cultures of cyanobacteria and algae in which carbon concentrating mechanisms have been researched. Besides, the photosynthesis was non‐sensitive to pH changes within the range of 5.6–9.6, indicating that HCO3− was the main DIC source used for photosynthesis. The M. chthonoplastes mats featured external and internal carbonic anhydrase (CA) activity as measured in intact cells and cell extracts, respectively. Acetazolamide (AZ, which slowly enters the cell and then inhibits mainly the external CA) and ethoxyzolamide (EZ, which inhibits both external and internal CA) reduced significantly the oxygen evolution rates, demonstrating that the CA was implied in the DIC acquisition. Vanadate inhibited photosynthesis by 60% although its application, when CA being inhibited (i.e. after applying AZ + EZ), did not produce any additional effect. It could indicate that ATPase‐dependent HCO3− use occurred and also that this putative mechanism was coupled with CA‐like activity at the plasma membrane. The involvement of Na+‐dependent HCO3− transporters in DIC acquisition was also inferred as monensin and 4‐4′‐diisothiocyanatostibilene‐2,2′‐disulfonate (DIDS) reduced photosynthesis by 70%. DIDS produced a strong inhibitory effect even after application of AZ + EZ + vanadate, indicating that this mechanism was not related to CA activity. The microbial mats become subject to very unfavourable conditions for Rubisco carboxylation at their natural habitats (e.g. external pH of 10.5 and O2 concentration doubled with respect to saturation concentration); therefore, this putative diversity of DIC acquisition mechanisms could ensure their growth under these extreme conditions.
Functional impairment as a predictor of short‐term symptom course in bipolar I disorder
Authors: Weinstock Lauren M , Miller Ivan W
Published: April 2008

Objectives:  Most prior research has focused on functional impairment as a consequence, rather than a predictor, of mood symptoms in bipolar disorder (BD). Yet the majority of this research has been cross‐sectional, thus limiting conclusions regarding directionality of effects. Indeed, just as functional impairment may represent an important outcome of BD, it may also serve as a risk factor for future affective symptoms or episodes. Thus, the primary aim of this study was to evaluate functional impairment as a predictor of mood symptoms in BD.

Methods:  Ninety‐two patients with bipolar I disorder, recruited from hospital settings, were administered the Modified Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, Bech–Rafaelson Mania Scale, and UCLA Social Attainment Survey (SAS) at baseline and at four‐month follow‐up.

Results:  Overall, patients evidenced a moderate level of functional impairment at both time points. Whereas baseline functional impairment was not associated with subsequent manic symptoms, baseline functional impairment was significantly predictive of depressive symptom levels at four‐month follow‐up. When individual SAS subscales were evaluated, impaired romantic relationship functioning and activity involvement were each significantly predictive of subsequent depressive symptoms, whereas baseline peer functioning was not.

Conclusions:  The study results suggest that functional impairment may be predictive of subsequent depressive, but not manic, symptoms over a relatively short‐term follow‐up period. Future studies that evaluate illness course over longer follow‐up periods would be useful to further clarify the potential bidirectional relationship between depression and functional impairment in BD.
Lamotrigine in bipolar disorder: efficacy during pregnancy
Authors: Newport D Jeffrey , Stowe Zachary N , Viguera Adele C , Calamaras Martha R , Juric Sandra , Knight Bettina , Pennell Page B , Baldessarini Ross J
Published: April 2008

Objective:  Clinical management of bipolar disorder (BPD) patients during pregnancy is a major challenge. The high risk of bipolar depression during pregnancy encourages consideration of lamotrigine (LTG). We therefore compared recurrence risks among pregnant women with BPD treated with LTG to those discontinuing mood stabilizer therapies.

Methods:  We compared risks and weeks to new DSM‐IV illness‐episodes among 26 initially clinically stable pregnant women diagnosed with DSM‐IV BPD who continued LTG treatment to those discontinuing all mood stabilizer treatment during pregnancy.

Results:  The risk of new illness‐episodes with LTG was 30% versus 100% after discontinuing mood stabilizers, and survival‐computed time‐to‐25%‐recurrence was 28.0 versus 2.0 weeks (χ2 = 17.3, p < 0.0001; hazard ratio = 12.1; 95% confidence interval = 1.6–91.7).

Conclusions:  Discontinuing mood stabilizer treatment presents high risks of illness‐recurrence among pregnant women diagnosed with BPD. LTG may afford protective effects in pregnancy, and its reported fetal safety compares favorably to other agents used to manage BPD.
Effect of Photosynthetic Inhibitors on Induction of Tryptamine Pathway‐mediated Resistance in Lesion Mimic Mutant of Rice Infected with Magnaporthe grisea
Authors: Imaoka A. , Ueno M. , Kihara J. , Arase S.
Published: April 2008

Rice cv. Sekiguchi‐asahi was identified as a lesion mimic mutant from cv. Asahi. This mutant showed light‐enhanced resistance to Magnaporthe grisea infection, inducing Sekiguchi lesion (sl) formation and tryptamine accumulation. To elucidate the role of chloroplasts on the activation of tryptamine pathway, the effect of some photosynthetic inhibitors on light‐dependant Sekiguchi lesion formation, tryptamine accumulation, and enzyme activities was investigated. When detached leaf blades which had been pretreated with Linuron, 1, 10‐Phenanthroline or Poly‐l‐lysine were inoculated with M. grisea, respectively, Sekiguchi lesion formation and typtamine accumulation were suppressed even under light, suppressing gene expression of tryptophan decarboxylase and monoamine oxidase activity. On the other hand, catalase activity was significantly inhibited in control leaves infected with M. grisea under light, but kept at high level in chemical‐pretreated leaves. These results suggested that photosynthetic activity in chloroplasts was involved in inhibition of antioxidant sysytem and activation of tryptamine pathway responsible for light‐enhanced resistance in sl mutant to M. grisea infection.
Symptoms, Wood Lesions and Fungi Associated with Esca in Organic Vineyards in Languedoc‐Roussillon (France)
Authors: Péros J.‐P. , Berger G. , Jamaux‐Despréaux I.
Published: April 2008

We analysed symptoms, wood lesions and fungi associated with esca in mature organic vineyards in the Languedoc‐Roussillon region. Most previous surveys concerning esca syndrome were conducted in conventionally managed vineyards in other regions. We first found that esca may be present at a very low level in vineyards that were not treated with sodium arsenite. Affected vines displayed three types of symptoms: leaves with interveinal necrosis, wilt of entire branches and these two symptoms in combination. During the 3‐year survey, not all affected vines displayed symptoms every year and the same vine rarely displayed the same symptom or combination of symptoms in successive years. The incidence of esca appeared to be correlated with the percentage of vines that died during the survey but no correlation was found with either mortality before the survey or with the age of the vineyard. Observation of cross‐sections of a total of 210 vines with esca symptoms and isolation of fungi from the wood lesions led to similar results to those obtained in conventionally managed vineyards. Four different lesions were identified: a white rot lesion, a brown lesion in a central position, a brown lesion in a sectorial position and a scattered black spotting in healthy wood. The most frequently observed fungal species were Fomitiporia mediterranea (Fom), Phaeomoniella chlamydospora, Phaeoacremonium aleophilum and Eutypa lata. The white rot lesion caused by Fom was generally accompanied by one or more other lesions in the same vine. Similarly, Fom was generally isolated with one or several other fungi. No relationship was detected between the expression of external symptoms and any specific lesion or fungus. Our study also showed that esca and Eutypa dieback are often superimposed in our region of sampling.
Safflower Seedling a Selective Host to Discriminate Phytophthora melonis from Phytophthora drechsleri
Authors: Banihashemi Z. , Mirtalebi M.
Published: April 2008

Safflower seedlings were used to discriminate two morphologically similar species of Phytophthora namely P. melonis and P. drechsleri. All isolates of P. melonis from different sources could not infect safflower seedlings under high inoculum potential whereas all isolates of P. drechsleri from various hosts attacked safflower within a short period. Of 31 authentic Phytophthora species inoculated to safflower seedlings only seven species including Phytophthora asparagi, Phytophthora cactorum, Phytophthora cryptogea, Phytophthora drechsleri, Phytophthora erythroseptica, Phytophthora palmivora and Phytophthora quercina caused hypocotyls infection. All cucurbit isolates of Phytophthora from different parts of Iran and one from China could not infect safflower seedlings and were identified as P. melonis which had been confirmed previously by molecular analysis.
Application of a Simplified Molecular Protocol to Reveal Mixed Infections with Begomoviruses in Cassava
Authors: Busogoro J. P. , Masquellier L. , Kummert J. , Dutrecq O. , Lepoivre P. , Jijakli M. H.
Published: April 2008

Samples of cassava leaves exhibiting severe symptoms of cassava mosaic disease (CMD) were collected with the PhytoPASS kit in fields surrounding the city of Bujumbura (Burundi). These materials were then sent to Belgium for polymerase chain reaction determination of the CMD begomoviruses inducing the observed symptoms. Different pairs of specific primers were used to amplify DNA sequences specific to African cassava mosaic virus (ACMV), East African cassava mosaic virus (EACMV), East African cassava mosaic Cameroon virus (EACMCV), East African cassava mosaic Malawi virus (EACMMV), East African cassava mosaic Zanzibar virus (EACMZV), the Uganda variant of East African cassava mosaic virus (EACMV‐UG) and South African cassava mosaic virus (SACMV). It was revealed that mixed infections were prevailing in the analyzed materials. Most of the samples submitted to this analysis were found to be co‐infected by three different begomoviruses (ACMV + EACMV + EACMV‐UG). The so revealed mixed infections could explain the high severity of CMD symptoms noticed on cassava in the region of Bujumbura while the diversity within the CMD causal agents illustrates the importance to take this parameter into consideration for a successful use of plant genetic resistance to control the disease.
Serum Leptin Concentrations in Lipizzan Fillies
Authors: Čebulj‐Kadunc N. , Kosec M. , Cestnik V.
Published: April 2008

Contents

To determine seasonal changes in circulating leptin concentrations, as well as leptin fluctuations in various patterns of seasonal ovarian activity, blood samples were taken in 107 Lipizzan fillies aged 1–4 years over the whole year from January to December. Serum concentrations were measured in samples obtained once a month (leptin) or twice a month (progesterone), and evaluated with respect to the age of animals (yearlings, 2‐, 3‐ and 4‐year olds) and the pattern of ovarian activity (anoestrous, seasonal cycle, prolonged cyclicity, continuous cyclicity). The mean and monthly leptin concentrations in 3‐ and 4‐year olds were significantly higher than in yearlings and 2‐year olds (p < 0.001). Circulating leptin levels in 3‐ and 4‐year olds increased significantly in summer, to peak in August and then decline significantly (p < 0.001) in autumn. The fluctuations in younger fillies were less evident. The highest mean serum leptin concentrations were observed in fillies exhibiting continuous cyclicity and the lowest in those, exhibiting seasonal cyclicity (p < 0.001). In anoestrous fillies, leptin concentrations were lower than in fillies with prolonged or continuous cyclicity but higher than in fillies with seasonal cyclic activity (p > 0.05).
Expression of Genes in the Canine Pre‐implantation Uterus and Embryo: Implications for an Active Role of the Embryo Before and During Invasion
Authors: Schäfer‐Somi S , Beceriklisoy HB , Budik S , Kanca H , Aksoy OA , Polat B , Cetin Y , Ay SS , Aslan S
Published: April 2008

Contents

The aim of the present study was to assess genes expressed in maternal uterine tissue and pre‐implantation embryos which are presumably involved in maternal recognition and establishment of canine pregnancy. For this purpose, 10 pregnant bitches were ovariohysterectomized between days 10 and 12 after mating. Four non‐pregnant bitches served as controls. Early pregnancy was verified by flushing the uterine horns with PBS solution. The collected embryos (n = 60) were stored deep‐frozen (−80°C). Uterine tissue was excised, snaps frozen in liquid nitrogen and homogenized using TRI Reagent. All embryos from one litter were thawed together and also homogenized in TRI Reagent. RT‐PCR was performed to prove mRNA expression of progesterone receptor, key enzymes of the prostaglandin synthesis pathway, selected growth factors, cytokines, immune cell receptors, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and matrix‐metalloproteinases (MMP). Only pregnant uteri revealed the presence of mRNA for interferon (IFN)‐γ, IL‐4 and CD‐8, which resembles the milieu in humans and other mammalians. Similarly, in day 10 embryos, mRNA for transforming growth factor‐β, insulin‐like growth factor‐1,‐2, hepatocyte growth factor, leukaemia inhibitor factor, tumour necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐1β,‐6,‐8, cyclooxygenase‐2, CD4+ cells, and MMP‐2 and ‐9 were detected, but not MHC‐I or ‐II. We therefore suppose that the canine embryo, like its human counterpart, actively initiates measures to prevent attacks from the maternal immune system to prepare its own adhesion, nidation, growth and further development.
Influenza‐associated pneumonia in a Turkish area with endemic avian influenza
Authors: ÖZBAY Bülent , SERTOĞULLARİNDAN Bunyamin , TEKIN Murat , ALTINOZ Orhan
Published: April 2008

Background and objective:  The aim of the study was to describe the effects of influenza associated with community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) on the outcome of patients in an area characterized by endemic avian influenza.

Methods:  Sixty patients diagnosed with CAP and requiring hospitalization were studied for the presence of influenza. Based on the presence or absence of influenza, patients were divided into two groups: group 1 were CAP patients positive for influenza and group 2 included CAP patients negative for influenza. Laboratory investigations, CXR findings and prognosis were compared.

Results:  Nasopharyngeal swabs or deep tracheal aspirates were tested for viral aetiology, and seven patients were positive for influenza AH3; one was positive for influenza AH1; seven were positive for influenza B; and one was positive for parainfluenza. Group 1 patients (n = 16) had a mean age of 56 years and group 2 patients (n = 45) had a mean age of 55 years. Significant increases in creatinine kinase and lymphopaenia were seen in group 1 patients. On CXR, interstitial infiltration was more marked in group 1. There was significantly higher mortality in group 1 than in group 2.

Conclusion:  CAP associated with influenza had a different clinical picture and outcome compared with patients without evidence of influenza.
Validation of symptom‐based COPD questionnaires in Japanese subjects
Authors: KAWAYAMA Tomotaka , MINAKATA Yoshiaki , MATSUNAGA Kazuto , YAMAGATA Toshiyuki , TSUDA Tohru , KINOSHITA Masaharu , IWANAGA Tomoaki , ICHINOSE Masakazu , AIZAWA Hisamichi
Published: April 2008

Background and objective:  Symptom‐based questionnaires may be helpful in diagnosing patients with COPD. The aim of this study was to determine whether two COPD questionnaires designed in Western countries were applicable to Japanese and other Asian patients.

Methods:  The participants were Japanese people aged 40 years and over. Each subject answered questions on demographics and symptoms and underwent spirometry before and after administration of a bronchodilator. Questionnaire A was designed to identify previously undiagnosed COPD and questionnaire B was designed to differentiate between COPD and asthma.

Results:  The numbers of COPD patients who answered questionnaires A and B were 33 of 169 (19.5%) and 112 of 168 (66.7%), respectively. Comparison of the COPD group with the non‐COPD group revealed a significant difference in total score in both questionnaire A and questionnaire B (both P < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC‐ROC) for questionnaire A was 0.791. With a cut‐off value of 16.5 points, the sensitivity and specificity were 0.939 and 0.404, and with a 19.5‐point cut‐off, sensitivity and specificity were 0.848 and 0.647, respectively. The AUC‐ROC for questionnaire B was 0.765. With cut‐off values of 18.5 and 24.5 points, the respective sensitivities and specificities were 0.946 and 0.393, and 0.741 and 0.607.

Conclusions:  A simple self‐administered questionnaire can help to diagnose COPD in Japanese subjects. When these questionnaires are used in Japan, cut‐off values should be set somewhat higher than in Western countries.
Peritoneal carcinomatosis in lung cancer
Authors: SU Hsuan‐Tsung , TSAI Chun‐Ming , PERNG Reury‐Perng
Published: April 2008

Background and objective:  A survey was carried out of peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) in lung cancer.

Methods:  A retrospective analysis was conducted of all lung cancer patients with malignant ascites diagnosed between 1990 and 2005 at a general hospital in Taiwan.

Results:  There were 30 lung cancer patients with documented PC. The most frequent abdominal symptom was abdominal distension. The most common histological type of lung cancer with PC was adenocarcinoma. Eighty per cent of the patients developed malignant pleural effusions before the diagnosis of PC. The median survival after diagnosis of PC was 15 days. Two adenocarcinoma patients with PC benefited from treatment with gefitinib.

Conclusions:  Further study is warranted to investigate the use of gefitinib in treatment of patients with lung adenocarcinoma and PC.