bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rubber band recoil
Authors: Vermorel R , Vandenberghe N , Villermaux E
Published: November 2006

When an initially stretched rubber band is suddenly released at one end, an axial-stress front propagating at the celerity of sound separates a free and a stretched domain of the elastic material. As soon as it reaches the clamped end, the front rebounds and a compression front propagates backward. When the length of the compressed area exceeds Euler critical length, a dynamic buckling instability develops. The rebound is analysed using Saint-Venant's theory of impacts and we use a dynamical extension of the Euler–Bernoulli beam equation to obtain a relation between the buckled wavelength, the initial stretching and the rubber band thickness. The influence of an external fluid medium is also considered: owing to added mass and viscosity, the instability growth rate decreases. With a high viscosity, the axial-stress front spreads owing to viscous frictional forces during the release phase. As a result, the selected wavelength increases significantly.
Ecological consequences of interactions between ants and honeydew-producing insects
Authors: Styrsky John D , Eubanks Micky D
Published: November 2006

Interactions between ants and honeydew-producing hemipteran insects are abundant and widespread in arthropod food webs, yet their ecological consequences are very poorly known. Ant–hemipteran interactions have potentially broad ecological effects, because the presence of honeydew-producing hemipterans dramatically alters the abundance and predatory behaviour of ants on plants. We review several studies that investigate the consequences of ant–hemipteran interactions as ‘keystone interactions’ on arthropod communities and their host plants. Ant–hemipteran interactions have mostly negative effects on the local abundance and species richness of several guilds of herbivores and predators. In contrast, out of the 30 studies that document the effects of ant–hemipteran interactions on plants, the majority (73%) shows that plants actually benefit indirectly from these interactions. In these studies, increased predation or harassment of other, more damaging, herbivores by hemipteran-tending ants resulted in decreased plant damage and/or increased plant growth and reproduction. The ecological consequences of mutualistic interactions between honeydew-producing hemipterans and invasive ants relative to native ants have rarely been studied, but they may be of particular importance owing to the greater abundance, aggressiveness and extreme omnivory of invasive ants. We argue that ant–hemipteran interactions are largely overlooked and underappreciated interspecific interactions that have strong and pervasive effects on the communities in which they are embedded.
Pseudomonas segetis sp. nov., isolated from soil
Authors: Park Yoon-Dong , Yi Hana , Baik Keun Sik , Seong Chi Nam , Bae Kyung Sook , Moon Eun Young , Chun Jongsik
Published: November 2006

A Gram-negative, aerobic bacterium, designated strain FR1439T, was isolated from the soil of Dokdo in the Republic of Korea. The cells of strain FR1439T were catalase- and oxidase-positive, motile and rod-shaped. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that it represents a distinct line of descent within the genus Pseudomonas. The levels of DNA–DNA relatedness between strain FR1439T and type strains of phylogenetically related species, namely Pseudomonas flavescens, Pseudomonas mendocina, Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes and Pseudomonas straminea, ranged from 28 to 37 %. Several phenotypic characteristics, together with the cellular fatty acid composition, can be used to differentiate strain FR1439T from related pseudomonads. On the basis of the polyphasic taxonomic evidence presented in this study, strain FR1439T represents a novel species, for which the name Pseudomonas segetis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is FR1439T (=IMSNU 14101T=CIP 108523T=KCTC 12331T).
Bacillus infantis sp. nov. and Bacillus idriensis sp. nov., isolated from a patient with neonatal sepsis
Authors: Ko Kwan Soo , Oh Won Sup , Lee Mi Young , Lee Jang Ho , Lee Hyuck , Peck Kyong Ran , Lee Nam Yong , Song Jae-Hoon
Published: November 2006

Two Gram-positive bacilli, designated as strains SMC 4352-1T and SMC 4352-2T, were isolated sequentially from the blood of a newborn child with sepsis. They could not be identified by using conventional clinical microbiological methods. 16S rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed that both strains belonged to the genus Bacillus but clearly diverged from known Bacillus species. Strain SMC 4352-1T and strain SMC 4352-2T were found to be closely related to Bacillus firmus NCIMB 9366T (98.2 % sequence similarity) and Bacillus cibi JG-30T (97.1 % sequence similarity), respectively. They also displayed low DNA–DNA reassociation values (less than 40 %) with respect to the most closely related Bacillus species. On the basis of their polyphasic characteristics, strain SMC 4352-1T and strain SMC 4352-2T represent two novel species of the genus Bacillus, for which the names Bacillus infantis sp. nov. (type strain SMC 4352-1T=KCCM 90025T=JCM 13438T) and Bacillus idriensis sp. nov. (type strain SMC 4352-2T=KCCM 90024T=JCM 13437T) are proposed.
Natrinema ejinorense sp. nov., isolated from a saline lake in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Castillo A. M. , Gutiérrez M. C. , Kamekura M. , Xue Y. , Ma Y. , Cowan D. A. , Jones B. E. , Grant W. D. , Ventosa A.
Published: November 2006

A Gram-negative, non-motile, neutrophilic, pleomorphic and extremely halophilic archaeon, strain EJ-57T, was isolated from saline Lake Ejinor in Inner Mongolia, China. Strain EJ-57T was able to grow at 25–50 °C, required at least 1.8 M NaCl for growth (optimum at 3.4 M NaCl) and grew over a pH range from 6.0 to 8.5 (optimum at pH 7.0). Hypotonic treatment with less than 1.5 M NaCl caused cell lysis. Analysis of the almost complete 16S rRNA gene sequence indicated that the isolate represented a member of the genus Natrinema in the family Halobacteriaceae. Strain EJ-57T was most closely related to Natrinema versiforme JCM 10478T (96.2 % sequence similarity), Natrinema pallidum NCIMB 777T (95.9 % sequence similarity), Natrinema altunense JCM 12890T (95.8 % sequence similarity) and Natrinema pellirubrum NCIMB 786T (95.5 % sequence similarity). However, DNA–DNA hybridization experiments showed that strain EJ-57T was not related to these species, with levels of DNA–DNA relatedness equal to or below 39 %. The major polar lipids of the isolate were C20C20 and C20C25 derivatives of phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol phosphate methyl ester and the disulfated glycolipid S2-DGA-1. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 64.7 mol%. Comparative analysis of phenotypic characteristics between strain EJ-57T and recognized Natrinema species supported the conclusion that EJ-57T represents a novel species within this genus, for which the name Natrinema ejinorense sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is EJ-57T (=CECT 7144T=JCM 13890T=CGMCC 1.6202T).
Methyloversatilis universalis gen. nov., sp. nov., a novel taxon within the Betaproteobacteria represented by three methylotrophic isolates
Authors: Kalyuzhnaya Marina G. , De Marco Paolo , Bowerman Sarah , Pacheco Catarina C. , Lara Jimmie C. , Lidstrom Mary E. , Chistoserdova Ludmila
Published: November 2006

The taxonomic positions and phylogenetic relationships of two new methylotrophic isolates from Lake Washington (USA) sediment, FAM5Tand 500, and the previously described methylotrophic strain EHg5 isolated from contaminated soil in Estarreja (Portugal) were investigated. All three strains were facultative methylotrophs capable of growth on a variety of C1and multicarbon compounds. Optimal growth occurred at pH 7.5–8 and 30–37 °C. The major fatty acids were C16 : 1ω7cand C16 : 0. The major quinone was ubiquinone Q8. Neither methanol dehydrogenase nor methanol oxidase activities were detectable in cells grown on methanol, suggesting an alternative, as-yet unknown, mechanism for methanol oxidation. The isolates assimilated C1units at the level of formaldehyde, via the serine cycle. The DNA G+C content of the strains ranged between 64 and 65 mol%. 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity between the three new isolates was 99.85–100 %, but was below 94 % with other members of theBetaproteobacteria, indicating that the isolates represent a novel taxon. Based on physiological, phenotypic and genomic characteristics of the three isolates, a new genus,Methyloversatilisgen. nov., is proposed within the familyRhodocyclaceae. The type strain ofMethyloversatilis universalisgen. nov., sp. nov. is FAM5T(=CCUG 52030T=JCM 13912T).
Paenibacillus xinjiangensis sp. nov., isolated from Xinjiang province in China
Authors: Lim Jee-Min , Jeon Che Ok , Park Dong-Jin , Xu Li-Hua , Jiang Cheng-Lin , Kim Chang-Jin
Published: November 2006

Strain B538Tis a Gram-positive, motile, rod-shaped bacterium, which was isolated from Xinjiang province in China. This organism grew optimally at 30–35 °C and pH 8.0–8.5. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain B538Tbelonged to the genusPaenibacillusand chemotaxonomic data (DNA G+C content, 47.0 mol%; major isoprenoid quinone, MK-7; cell wall type, A1γmeso-diaminopimelic acid; major fatty acids, anteiso-C15 : 0and C16 : 0) supported affiliation of the isolate with the genusPaenibacillus. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequence analyses showed that the isolate was most closely related toPaenibacillus glycanilyticusDS-1T, with 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 98.1 %; sequence similarities to other members of the genusPaenibacillusused in the phylogenetic tree were less than 96.5 %. The DNA–DNA relatedness between strain B538TandP. glycanilyticusDS-1Twas about 8.0 %. On the basis of physiological and molecular properties, strain B538T(=KCTC 3952T=DSM 16970T) is proposed as the type strain of a novel species within the genusPaenibacillus, for which the namePaenibacillus xinjiangensissp. nov. is proposed.
Gordonia soli sp. nov., a novel actinomycete isolated from soil
Authors: Shen Fo-Ting , Goodfellow Michael , Jones Amanda L. , Chen Ye-Pei , Arun A. B. , Lai Wei-An , Rekha P. D. , Young Chiu-Chung
Published: November 2006

A soil isolate, strain CC-AB07T, was characterized using a polyphasic approach. This organism had chemotaxonomic and morphological properties consistent with its classification in the genusGordonia. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that the novel strain formed a monophyletic branch at the periphery of the evolutionary radiation occupied by the genusGordonia, its closest neighbours being the type strains ofGordonia alkanivorans,Gordonia amicalis,Gordonia bronchialis,Gordonia desulfuricans,Gordonia polyisoprenivoransandGordonia rhizosphera. The novel isolate was distinguished from all of these type strains using a range of phenotypic properties and bygyrBgene sequence analysis. It was evident from the genotypic and phenotypic data that strain CC-AB07Tshould be classified as representing a novel species in the genusGordonia, for which the nameGordonia solisp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CC-AB07T(=BCRC 16810T=DSM 44995T).
Imaging Protein Interactions by FRET Microscopy: FRET Measurements by Acceptor Photobleaching: Figure 1.
Authors: Verveer Peter J. , Rocks Oliver , Harpur Ailsa G. , Bastiaens Philippe I.H.
Published: November 2006

INTRODUCTION

This protocol describes the detection of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) by measuring the quenching of donor emission alone. As opposed to sensitized emission measurements, photobleaching can be performed with high selectivity of the acceptor because absorption spectra are steep at their red edge, allowing the acceptor to be bleached without excitation of the donor. When using acceptor photobleaching FRET measurements, care should be taken that the photochemical product of the bleached acceptor does not have residual absorption at the donor emission and, more importantly, that it does not fluoresce in the donor spectral region. Because of mass movement of protein during the extended time required for photobleaching (typically 1-20 min), it is preferable to perform this type of FRET determination on fixed cell samples. Live-cell FRET measurements based only on donor fluorescence are more feasible using fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM), because lifetimes are independent of probe concentration and light path length. The former is not easy to determine in cells, and the latter means that cell shape is not a factor.
Imaging Protein Interactions by FRET Microscopy: FLIM Measurements: Figure 1.
Authors: Verveer Peter J. , Rocks Oliver , Harpur Ailsa G. , Bastiaens Philippe I.H.
Published: November 2006

INTRODUCTION

This image acquisition protocol is a basic plan for taking a fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) series. FLIM makes live-cell FRET measurements based only on donor fluorescence more feasible, because lifetimes are independent of probe concentration and light path length. The former is not easy to determine in cells, and the latter means that cell shape is not a factor.
Photoactivation-Based Labeling and In Vivo Tracking of RNA Molecules in the Nucleus
Authors: Ritland Politz Joan C. , Tuft Richard A. , Pederson Thoru
Published: November 2006

INTRODUCTION

This protocol describes a method for observing and measuring the movement of RNA molecules in the nucleus of living mammalian cells. Caged fluorescein-labeled DNA oligonucleotides are introduced into living mammalian cells, where they demonstrably hybridize to complementary RNA. After site-specific photoactivation at desired sites within the cell, the RNA movements away from those sites are followed and digitally recorded using a rapid acquisition microscopy system.
Imaging Protein Interactions by FRET Microscopy: Labeling Proteins with Fluorescent Dyes
Authors: Verveer Peter J. , Rocks Oliver , Harpur Ailsa G. , Bastiaens Philippe I.H.
Published: November 2006

INTRODUCTION

This protocol provides a method for labeling proteins, such as antibodies and purified recombinant proteins, with succinimide esters of sulfoindocyanine (Cy) dyes. Cy dyes covalently bind to free amino groups (the α-amino-terminal or ϵ-amino groups on lysine side chains).
Imaging Protein Interactions by FRET Microscopy: Cell Preparation for FRET Analysis
Authors: Verveer Peter J. , Rocks Oliver , Harpur Ailsa G. , Bastiaens Philippe I.H.
Published: November 2006

INTRODUCTION

The following protocol describes the preparation of cells for FRET analysis on live and fixed cells. The reagents used have been optimized to minimize the quenching of GFP mutants and fluorescent dyes.
Comparing plumage colour measurements obtained directly from live birds and from collected feathers: the case of the great tit Parus major
Authors: Quesada Javier , Senar Juan Carlos
Published: November 2006

Birds frequently display a colourful plumage which is important both in inter and intraespecific communication, and either in sexual and social contexts. In last years some methodologies have been developed to, analyse plumage coloration, but the use of the spectrometers has been particularly important for UV range. Measurement of plumage coloration with the spectrometer may be taken directly on the bird or, alternatively by collecting some feathers and measuring them later in the laboratory. However, few is known about the reliability of measures obtained from feathers and whether these are really representative of plumage coloration. We tested this assumption analysing measurements of carotenoids‐based coloration components (lightness, chroma and hue) and lutein peak of the yellow breast of the great tit Parus major. We used two spectrometers (Ocean optics and Minolta) which calculate differently the colour components. Our results showed that direct measurement of bird was highly repeatable to determine lightness, chroma and hue for both spectrometers. Similar results we found for collected feathers procedure for both devices. Collected feathers provided high representative measurements of colour values with Minolta spectrometer. Lightness was highly repeatable when we used Ocean optic spectrometer, but chroma and hue were moderate. Lutein peak was also highly repeatable in all cases. The number of feathers used to measure plumage coloration in collected feathers procedure strongly influenced values of colour plumage variables. In general, values of lightness, chroma and hue stabilised when more than 10–15 feathers were used although we found slight differences between spectrometers. However, only four feathers were needed for lutein peak. Thus, our results stress the need to use a minimum number of feathers in measuring plumage coloration from collected feathers.
Increased susceptibility to hepatocarcinogenicity of Nrf2‐deficient mice exposed to 2‐amino‐3‐methylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoline
Authors: Kitamura Yasuki , Umemura Takashi , Kanki Keita , Kodama Yukio , Kitamoto Sachiko , Saito Koichi , Itoh Ken , Yamamoto Masayuki , Masegi Toshiaki , Nishikawa Akiyoshi , Hirose Masao
Published: November 2006

To elucidate the roles of the transcription factor NF‐E2‐related factor (Nrf2) in hepatocarcinogenesis induced by 2‐amino‐3‐methylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoline (IQ), a mutagenic and carcinogenic heterocyclic amine, Nrf2‐deficient mice were treated with 300 p.p.m. IQ in their diet for 1, 4 or 52 weeks. In the long‐term experiment, the multiplicity and incidence of liver tumors in male and female IQ‐treated Nrf2 deficient (–/–) mice were significantly higher than those in their counterpart wild‐type (+/+) mice exposed to IQ. In the short‐term experiment, although IQ exposure to Nrf2(+/+) mice of both sexes did not modify UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase values, glutathione S‐transferase values were significantly increased due to IQ treatment, in contrast to no alteration in male and female Nrf2(–/–) mice. Levels of oxidative stress markers such as 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in the livers of all treated mice were not changed by IQ treatment. IQ‐specific DNA adduct levels were elevated only in female Nrf2(–/–) mice, although the increase was not significant. IQ treatment caused an increase in proliferating cell nuclear antigen labeling indices only in male Nrf2(–/–) mice. The present data clearly show that Nrf2(–/–) mice of both sexes are susceptible to IQ hepatocarcinogenicity, which might result from IQ accumulation due to failure of metabolizing enzyme induction. In addition, inconsistent results concerning IQ‐specific adducts and proliferating cell nuclear antigen labeling indices in male and female Nrf2(–/–) mice suggest the existence of different contributions of Nrf2 to IQ hepatocarcinogenesis between mice of the two sexes. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 19–24)
Differential expression of monocyte CD163 in single – and dual‐asthmatic responders during allergen‐induced bronchoconstriction
Authors: Kowal K. , Møller H. J. , DuBuske L. M. , Moestrup S. K. , Bodzenta‐Lukaszyk A.
Published: November 2006

Background
Mononuclear phagocytes play an important role in modulating inflammatory reactions in response to antigen challenge.

Objective
To investigate the regulation of CD163, a marker of anti‐inflammatory macrophages, during Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dp)‐induced bronchoconstriction.

Methods
Among 110 Dp‐sensitive patients who underwent bronchial challenge with Dp, there were 51 dual responders (DR), 32 single responders (SR) and 27 non‐responders (NR). Monocyte expression of CD14 and CD163 was evaluated by flow cytometry. Exhaled NO (eNO) concentration was determined on‐line using a chemiluminescence analyser. In 21 DR, nine SR and 13 NR‐soluble CD163 in plasma was measured by ELISA before, 1, 8 and 24 h after the challenge.

Results
In DR, the baseline expression of monocyte CD163 and eNO were significantly greater than in SR and NR. A pattern of (1) decreased monocyte CD163 expression, (2) unchanged sCD163 and (3) increased eNO in DR was contrasted by a pattern of (1) increased CD163 expression, (2) increased sCD163 and (3) unchanged eNO in SR. During allergen challenge, the changes in monocyte CD163 expression and sCD163 inversely correlated with the changes in eNO.

Conclusion
Both pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory responses to allergen challenge are uniquely expressed among SR and DR.
Molecular fingerprinting of the intestinal microbiota of infants in whom atopic eczema was or was not developing
Authors: Penders J. , Stobberingh E. E. , Thijs C. , Adams H. , Vink C. , Van Ree R. , Van Den Brandt P. A.
Published: November 2006

Background
The rise in atopic diseases has been linked to disturbances in the intestinal microbiota composition.

Objective
The purpose of this study was to investigate the intestinal microbiota composition in infants in whom atopic (IgE‐associated) eczema was or was not developing, using a molecular fingerprinting technique.

Methods
Within a prospective birth cohort study, fecal samples have been collected at the infant's age of 1 month. Within the context of this cohort, we conducted a nested case–control study comparing fecal samples of 26 infants who became sensitized and developed eczema within the first year of life with 52 non‐sensitized non‐eczematous infants. The composition of the fecal samples was examined using PCR combined with denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. Using real‐time PCR, total bacterial counts and bifidobacterial counts were enumerated.

Results
Neither total bacterial profiles nor the type and proportion of bifidobacteria in the feces were associated with the development of atopic eczema. The similarity of bacterial profiles was low; mean similarity was approximately 33% in both infants with or without atopic eczema. The prevalence of one specific band in total bacterial profiles was significantly higher in infants with atopic eczema compared with controls (96% vs. 71%, P=0.01). Identification of this band revealed that it represented Escherichia coli.

Conclusion
Although no association was found between the development of IgE‐associated eczema and the dominant gut microbiota as a whole or with the bifdobacterial microbiota, the association with E. coli indicates that differences in gut microbiota do precede the development of atopy.
Application of the topographic datuming operator to a data setfrom the Eastern Arabian Peninsula
Authors: Bagaini Claudio , Alkhalifah Tariq
Published: November 2006

We apply a redatuming methodology, designed to handle rugged topography and the presence of high‐velocity layers near the acquisition surface, to a 2D land seismic data set acquired in Saudi Arabia. This methodology is based on a recently developed prestack operator, which we call the topographic datuming operator (TDO). The TDO, unlike static corrections, allows for the movement of reflections laterally with respect to their true locations, corresponding to the new datum level. Thus, it mitigates mispositioning of events and velocity bias introduced by the assumption of surface consistency and the time‐invariant time shifts brought about by static corrections. Using the shallow velocities estimated from refracted events, the TDO provides a superior continuity of reflections and better focusing than that obtained from conventional static corrections in most parts of the processed 2D line. The computational cost of applying the TDO is only slightly higher than static corrections. The marginal additional computational cost and the possibility of estimating, after TDO redatuming, stacking velocities that are not affected by a spurious positive bias, as in the case of static corrections, are further advantages of the proposed methodology. The likelihood of strong heterogeneities in the most complex part of the line limits the applicability of any approach based upon geometrical optics; however, the TDO produces results that are slightly better than those obtained from static corrections because of its ability to partially collapse diffractions generated in the near surface.
Ground viscosity and stiffness measurements for near surface seismic velocity
Authors: Ley Robert , Adolfs Willem , Bridle Ralph , Al‐Homaili Mohammad , Vesnaver Aldo , Ras Paul
Published: November 2006

In land surveys, the weathering layer can often distort the seismic signal due to it passing through rapid velocity and density changes, dispersion, scattering and inelastic absorption. In a simple spring‐dashpot model for the earth response, an equivalent medium groups these complex phenomena into two parameters only; these are called ground viscosity and ground stiffness. The most recent controllers for vibrators can estimate both parameters. To validate these measurements, Saudi Aramco conducted an experiment measuring ground viscosity and stiffness from two different vibrator control systems over an area of varying terrain conditions, including unconsolidated sand and limestone outcrop. The two systems measured different values, but detected similar trends that correlated well with weathering conditions and surface geology, e.g. lower viscosity values on the outcrop than on the sand.

The ratio of ground viscosity to ground stiffness can approximate the shallow S‐wave velocity, which we converted into P‐wave velocity through calibration with sparse uphole data. Static corrections incorporating this velocity information somewhat improved the focusing of seismic time sections. This new approach does not require additional acquisition efforts, and can model shallow complex formations in arid areas where classical static methods often fail.
Functional coupling between the two active sites during Tn10 transposition buffers the mutation of sequences critical for DNA hairpin processing
Authors: Liu Danxu , Sewitz Sven , Crellin Paul , Chalmers Ronald
Published: November 2006

DNA processing reactions often involve multiple components acting in concert to achieve the desired outcome. However, it is usually difficult to know how the components communicate and cooperate to orchestrate an ordered series of events. We address this question in the context of the Tn10 transposition reaction, in which the DNA cleavage and joining events occur within a higher‐order complex containing a transposase dimer, two transposon ends and the DNA‐bending host‐factor IHF (Integration Host Factor). Previously it was shown that the complex is asymmetric. The α side consists of an IHF protomer initially immobilized by a DNA‐loop, but subsequently used to promote conformational changes required for the cleavage steps. The β side of the complex was considered to fulfil a more passive role. Here we show that the α side of the complex promotes coupled conformational changes at both transposon ends, while the α and β sides communicate and cooperate to dominate different phases of the transposition reaction. Together, these effects provide for a robust response to critical changes in the transposon end. These findings also explain the intriguing genetic phenotypes of a series of previously reported Tn10 mutants and have consequences for the evolution of new elements.
A novel biomagnetic approach to study caecocolonic motility in humans
Authors: Romeiro F. G. , Corá L. A. , De Andreis U. , Américo M. F. , Oliveira R. B. , Baffa O. , Miranda J. R. A.
Published: November 2006

Abstract  Motility patterns play a major role in human colonic functions; however, its physiological significance is poorly understood. Several studies have been introducing the Alternating Current Biosusceptometry (ACB) as a valuable tool in gastroenterology and pharmaceutical research. Using gold standard techniques, great effort has been made to validate ACB as a method for measuring gastrointestinal motility in humans and animals. The aim of this study was to evaluate caecocolonic motility and its response to a meal in healthy volunteers. The results showed a dominant frequency of 3.17 ± 0.13 cycles per minute (mean ± SD) that remained unchanged even after a standardized meal (P > 0.01). The colonic response to a meal was recorded as a considerable increase in amplitude, reflected by motility index (P < 0.01) and was observed for all the volunteers. The caecocolonic motility could be assessed by the ACB providing new insights into physiological patterns of motility. Moreover, the method is non‐invasive, radiation‐free, cost‐effective and independent of bowel preparation.
Upregulation of frizzled 9 in astrocytomas
Authors: Zhang Z. , Schittenhelm J. , Guo K. , Bühring H. J. , Trautmann K. , Meyermann R. , Schluesener H. J.
Published: November 2006

Wnt/frizzled (FZD) cascades play important roles in controlling cell fate, proliferation, migration, tissue architecture and organogenesis during embryonic development and in adult organisms. The potential involvement of this pathway in tumorigenesis has been established in several types of cancers. Frizzled 9 (FZD9) is expressed in brain and its aberrant expression in gastric cancer was observed. However, its association with astrocytomas remains unknown therefore we studied FZD9 expression in astrocytomas of different malignancy. In the present study, FZD9 expression in 25 astrocytomas was investigated using immunohistochemistry with specific antibodies. Further FZD9 expression in native human brain tissue and glioblastoma cell line were analysed using real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). In human astrocytomas, FZD9 immunoreactivity (IR) was observed in both microvessels and neoplastic cells. The percentage of FZD9+ microvessels in relation to FZD9+ vessels was significantly higher in malignant astrocytomas than in low‐grade astrocytomas and positively correlated with the astrocytoma World Health Organization (WHO) grading (r = 1, P = 0.04). Furthermore, the FZD9 IR scores positively correlated with astrocytoma WHO grading (r = 1, P = 0.04) and proliferating activity (r = 0.77, P < 0.001). Real‐time RT‐PCR data showed that FZD9 expression in human glioblastoma was significant higher than in normal brain (P < 0.05) but FZD9 expression was only slightly induced in cobalt chloride‐treated human glioblastoma T98G cells compared with untreated cells (P > 0.05). FZD9 is upregulated in astrocytomas, suggesting that FZD9 could be important in the tumorigenesis of human astrocytomas.
Inhibition of root elongation by ethylene in wetland and non‐wetland plant species and the impact of longitudinal ventilation
Authors: VISSER ERIC J.W. , PIERIK RONALD
Published: November 2006

The slow gas diffusion rate in flooded soil not only causes oxygen deficiency, but also favours the accumulation of ethylene in root systems to concentrations that may strongly affect root elongation. Previously published experiments showed that root elongation in rice is much less strongly inhibited by ethylene than in some other species less well adapted to wet conditions. Rice roots have also been reported to produce abnormally little ethylene. We tested if these traits are typical of wetland species and are thus likely to be widespread adaptive traits. Comparisons using 14 species indicated that insensitivity to the inhibiting effects of ethylene on root elongation is unlikely to be a common feature of temperate wetland species. However, resistance to longitudinal gas diffusion within roots of wetland species, which largely depends on diameter and the presence of gas‐filled channels, was found to be less than in non‐wetland species. We show that this can help maintain low internal ethylene concentrations by venting accumulated gas to the shoot and atmosphere.
Radiofrequency ablation partial nephrectomy: A new method of nephron‐sparing surgery in selected patients
Authors: SALAGIERSKI MAREK , SALAGIERSKI MACIEJ
Published: November 2006

Abstract  From July 2002 to April 2005, seven radiofrequency ablation partial nephrectomies have been carried out in seven selected patients. A cool‐tip Tyco radiofrequency device under intraoperative ultrasound guidance was used. After intervention, tumors were removed and their tissue with their margins were verified histopathologically. Procedure efficacy was assessed by multidetector computed tomography and by ultrasound. Complications included urine leakage in three cases. Histopathologically, in every case renal cell carcinoma was detected. There is no need for dialysis and there has been no tumor recurrence. No bleeding without clamping renal pedicle, easy tumor extraction and, we hope, reduced risk of recurrence are the major advantages of this intervention.
Evaluation of renal function after laparoscopic partial nephrectomy with renal scintigraphy using 99mtechnetium‐mercaptoacetyltriglycine
Authors: YASUYUKI KOBAYASHI , YUKIO USUI , MASANORI SHIMA , HOSHI AKIO , HIDESHI MIYAKITA , HIROYOSHI INATSUCHI , TOSHIRO TERACHI
Published: November 2006

Aim: We evaluated the functions of an affected kidney after laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) using renal scintigraphy with 99mtechnetium‐mercaptoacetyltriglycine (99mTc‐MAG3).

Methods: Split renal function of 10 patients who underwent LPN for renal tumors was assessed using renal scintigraphy with 99mTc‐MAG3 before surgery, and 1 week and 3 months post‐surgery.

Results: Median operating time was 196.5 min, median tumor diameter was 2.3 cm, mean blood loss was 64 mL and mean ischemic time was 38.5 min. Median change in serum creatinine level pre‐ to post‐surgery was 0.15 mg/dL. Median contribution of the affected kidney to total renal function (calculated using 99mTc‐MAG3) was 50.0%, 41.7% and 36.1% before surgery, 1 week and 3 months after LPN, respectively. In one patient, the tumor was resected after cooling of the affected kidney with ice slush for 15 min, and the split renal function ratio remained as high as 50% at 3 months post‐operatively despite a total ischemic time of 61 min.

Conclusions: This paper evaluated renal function on the affected side before and after surgery by measuring split renal function with renal scintigraphy using 99mTc‐MAG3. Risk factors for renal dysfunction in the affected kidney after LPN include age over 70 years with more than 30 min warm ischemic time, re‐clamping of the renal artery procedure, and a warm ischemic time greater than 60 min. We believe that renal cooling with slush ice prevents renal dysfunction of the affected kidney after LPN with longer warm ischemic times. However, an easier renal cooling technique should be sought for regular use of cooling procedures in LPN.
New onset of hydroceles in boys over 1 year of age
Authors: CHRISTENSEN TYLER , CARTWRIGHT PATRICK C , DEVRIES CATHERINE , SNOW BRENT W
Published: November 2006

Aim: The presentation, and medical and surgical management of all new onset non‐congenital hydroceles in boys older than 1 year of age were examined. Of particular interest was the outcome of those patients who presented with a non‐communicating hydrocele that developed after the first year of life and was managed conservatively.

Methods: All patients older than 12 months of age who were evaluated as outpatients with the diagnosis of hydrocele from January 1994 to January 2001 were identified. Possible risk factors and predisposing conditions were determined. For the patients who had surgical correction, surgical indications were identified. For non‐surgical patients, long‐term outcomes were recorded.

Results: A total of 302 patients older than 12 months of age with the diagnosis of new onset hydrocele were identified. Of these, 35% were non‐communicating, 59% were communicating, and 6% were hydroceles of the spermatic cord. In terms of surgery, 97% of communicating hydroceles, 71% of hydroceles of the spermatic cord, and 34% of non‐communicating hydroceles had operative management. Seventy patients with non‐communicating hydroceles did not receive surgery and 51 (73%) were contacted for long term follow‐up. In these 51 patients, 76% of non‐communicating hydroceles resolved completely, 6% decreased in size but were still present, 14% remained the same size, and 4% had an unknown status. The average time to resolution was 5.6 months with a median time of 3 months. The time range to resolution was from 1 day to 24 months. Follow‐up averaged 73.7 months with a range of 33 to 120 months.

Conclusions: Approximately 75% of new onset, non‐congenital, non‐communicating hydroceles resolve spontaneously irrespective of size. An observation period of 6–12 months would be appropriate prior to repair.
Up‐titration of vardenaﬁl dose from 10 mg to 20 mg improved erectile function in men with spinal cord injury
Authors: KIMOTO YASUSUKE , SAKAMOTO SADAAKI , FUJIKAWA KEITA , TACHIBANA TAKASHI , YAMAMOTO NORIYUKI , OTANI TOSHIKAZU
Published: November 2006

Aim: Vardenaﬁl is a highly selective phosphodiesterase type‐5 inhibitor for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Efﬁcacy of vardenaﬁl has been demonstrated in various ED populations, but that in Japanese patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) has not been assessed.

Methods: This was an open‐label, multicenter, flexible dose, 12‐week study in patients with ED due to SCI. Following a 4‐week observation period, patients received vardenaﬁl 10 mg for 4 weeks, and based on efﬁcacy, tolerability and patient preference, doses for the remaining 8 weeks were decided by investigators. The primary efﬁcacy parameter was erectile function domain score of the International Index of Erectile Function.

Results: Ten patients took 10 mg all through the study, while 22 patients took 20 mg after completing 4 weeks’ treatment with 10 mg. The erectile function domain score increased from 12.2 at baseline to 25.0 at Last Observation Carried Forward (LOCF) in the former group and from 10.3 to 22.5 in the latter group, respectively. Importantly, there was a 5.0 point increase in erectile function domain score after up‐titration in the latter group. Drug‐related adverse events were observed in 22% of patients including hot flushes (9%) and headache (6%), but these were transient and mild in intensity. Serious adverse events and adverse events leading to discontinuation of the study drug were not reported.

Conclusions: Vardenaﬁl 10 and 20 mg was well tolerated and improved erectile function in patients with SCI. Of interest, erectile function was further improved by 20 mg in patients who were not sufﬁciently treated with 10 mg.
Outcome of conservative treatment of primary vesicoureteral reflux in 87 Thai children in a single center
Authors: VACHVANICHSANONG PRAYONG , DISSANEEWATE PORNSAK , LIM APIRADEE , GEATER ALAN
Published: November 2006

Aim: To evaluate the outcome of primary vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) using conservative treatment.

Methods: Eighty‐seven children with primary VUR who had been treated with a conservative medical regimen and monitored through a yearly cystogram were recruited for the study. The study was conducted at the Pediatric Nephrology Clinic in Songklanagarind Hospital, the major tertiary care center in southern Thailand. Statistical analyses using Kaplan–Meier survival curves, chi‐squared test, Fisher’s exact test and multivariate analysis with Cox regression were performed.

Results: The study group consisted of 41 boys and 46 girls, with a total of 133 VUR. The age of the boys was significantly lower than that of the girls (P < 0.001). Resolution of the low grades (grades I–III) of VUR was significantly more frequent than that of the high grades (grades IV–V) (68/95, 72%vs 14/38, 37%; P < 0.001). Using the Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and log‐rank test, the resolutions of VUR in boys versus girls, and age <1 years versus ≥1 years were not significantly different (P = 0.2252 and 0.4756, respectively). Low‐grade VUR and unilateral VUR had significantly higher probabilities of resolution than high‐grade VUR and bilateral VUR, respectively (P = 0.0041 and 0.0467, respectively). Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that among low‐grade VUR, boys and unilateral VUR had significantly higher probabilities of resolution. Among the high‐grade VUR, neither sex nor laterality had a significant effect on the probabilities of VUR resolution.

Conclusion: This study offers more evidence that children with low‐grade VUR have a higher chance of reflux resolution if they are boys and have only unilateral VUR. There is still no good guide for resolution of reflux in children with high‐grade VUR.
Efficacy and safety of tamsulosin hydrochloride compared to doxazosin in the treatment of Indonesian patients with lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: RAHARDJO DJOKO , SOEBADI DODDY M , SUGANDI SUWANDI , BIROWO PONCO , DJATI WAHJOE , WAHYUDI IRFAN
Published: November 2006

Aim: The objective of the study was to compare the efficacy and safety of tamsulosin hydrochloride and doxazosin in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Methods: The safety and efficacy of tamsulosin (0.2 mg) and doxazosin (2 mg) was determined after once daily administration for 6 weeks in an open‐label, randomized, multicenter study of 101 men with BPH. The International Prostatic Symptom Score (IPSS), maximal urinary flow rates (Qmax), average urinary flow rates (Qave) and residual urine were determined at baseline and again at 6 weeks as efficacy parameters. The primary parameters used for safety evaluation were vital signs (blood pressure and heart rate) and adverse events. The number of patients with a clinically significant response to treatment with tamsulosin or doxazosin was determined and defined as those with >20% improvement from the baseline Qmax or >20% decrease in total IPSS.

Results: The total IPSS decreased significantly in both the tamsulosin and doxazosin groups compared to baseline. There was a significant difference in the decrease in total IPSS between two groups. Qmax, Qave and residual urine significantly improved only in the tamsulosin group. There were no significant differences in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure or heart rate profile in the tamsulosin group; however, doxazosin resulted in a significant difference in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Tamsulosin was well tolerated; only three patients (6%) in the tamsulosin group reported an adverse event (dizziness) while 11 patients (22%) in the doxazosin group reported an adverse event (dizziness), one of whom withdrew from the study.

Conclusions: Tamsulosin was shown to be more effective than doxazosin in the treatment of LUTS due to BPH.
Doubled sugar content in sugarcane plants modified to produce a sucrose isomer
Authors: Wu Luguang , Birch Robert G.
Published: November 2006

Sucrose is the feedstock for more than half of the world's fuel ethanol production and a major human food. It is harvested primarily from sugarcane and beet. Despite attempts through conventional and molecular breeding, the stored sugar concentration in elite sugarcane cultivars has not been increased for several decades. Recently, genes have been cloned for bacterial isomerase enzymes that convert sucrose into sugars which are not metabolized by plants, but which are digested by humans, with health benefits over sucrose. We hypothesized that an appropriate sucrose isomerase (SI) expression pattern might simultaneously provide a valuable source of beneficial sugars and overcome the sugar yield ceiling in plants. The introduction of an SI gene tailored for vacuolar compartmentation resulted in sugarcane lines with remarkable increases in total stored sugar levels. The high‐value sugar isomaltulose was accumulated in storage tissues without any decrease in stored sucrose concentration, resulting in up to doubled total sugar concentrations in harvested juice. The lines with enhanced sugar accumulation also showed increased photosynthesis, sucrose transport and sink strength. This remarkable step above the former ceiling in stored sugar concentration provides a new perspective into plant source–sink relationships, and has substantial potential for enhanced food and biofuel production.
Developing methods to evaluate web usability with people with learning difficulties
Authors: Williams Peter
Published: November 2006

Use of the Internet and other forms of information and communications technology (ICT) by people with learning difficulties has not been extensively researched. This article by Peter Williams of the Rix Centre at the University of East London reports some of the findings from ‘Project @pple’, a major ESRC‐funded programme exploring the ways in which people with learning difficulties access and use information and communication technologies. Using observations, interviews and formal usability tests, project researchers built up a multi‐layered view of computer use, Internet access and interaction with software among people with learning difficulties. A number of key themes emerged, including the nature of the tasks encountered, engagement, relevance to needs and the role of supporters. Peter Williams summarises these issues and indicates avenues for the future development of targeted products and for further research.
Helpful and unhelpful practices in meeting the needs of pupils with emotional and behavioural difficulties: a pilot survey of staff views in one local authority
Authors: Bennett Peter Lloyd
Published: November 2006

The emotional and behavioural problems experienced by pupils continue to be a key concern for educationalists. In this article, Peter Lloyd Bennett, an educational psychologist, reports on his research into the views of staff about this important area of work. Questionnaires on meeting the needs of pupils with emotional and behavioural difficulties were circulated among professionals in one local authority as part of the development of the authority's behaviour support plan. Respondents were asked to identify the practices and forms of additional support which, in their view, resulted in successful and less successful outcomes for pupils. Peter Lloyd Bennett analysed these responses and presents here ideas about staffing, strategies, training, multi‐agency work, provision and the role of parents. Interestingly, staff working with primary‐aged pupils frequently referred to whole‐school behaviour policies as contributing to successful outcomes. Professionals involved with both primary‐ and secondary‐aged pupils suggested that the constraints of the National Curriculum can contribute to pupils' emotional and behavioural difficulties. The results of this survey were used to inform developments in Peter Lloyd Bennett's local authority and will be directly relevant to colleagues grappling with similar issues in other contexts.
Meaning‐led learning for pupils with severe and profound and multiple learning difficulties
Authors: Goss Phil
Published: November 2006

This paper proposes that learning and teaching for pupils with severe and profound and multiple learning difficulties could be enhanced by a closer focus on emotional factors and on the careful identification of what is meaningful for them. Phil Goss, senior lecturer in counselling and psychotherapy at the University of Central Lancashire draws on understandings about emotional development gleaned from child psychiatry and psychotherapy to inform our awareness of the deep‐seated factors that may influence the complex needs of these pupils. He describes a research study in which he analysed findings from interviews with parents and carers about their perceptions of what is meaningful for their children. These outcomes are elaborated using findings from a pilot study on one pupil in which perceptions about what is meaningful for him were used to inform the ongoing planning of his learning. Phil Goss then uses the implications of this study to argue for fuller and more systematic involvement by parents and carers in planning for pupils with severe, and profound and multiple learning difficulties. Finally he suggests ways in which access to learning could be rendered more fruitful by adopting a meaning‐led approach.