bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor polymorphisms in HLA‐identical kidney transplant recipients: lack of 2DL2 and 2DS2 may be associated with poor graft function
Authors: Cirocco R. E. , Mathew J. M. , Burke G. W. , Esquenazi V. , Miller J.
Published: April 2007

Killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIR) on natural killer cells mediate killing by recognizing class I presentation of peptides by infected or oncogenic cells. KIR differences in stem cell transplants have been implicated in increased graft vs host disease. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐matched‐related kidney recipients have the best graft survival as compared to one haplotype‐matched recipients. These HLA‐identical transplant pairs may be ideal for studying minor HLA antigens and KIR polymorphic differences and their relation to graft function. We have studied KIR polymorphism in recipients and donor pairs of HLA‐matched sibling kidney transplants to demonstrate differences in genotype as related to long‐term graft function and/or chronic rejection. We employed a KIR genotyping kit (Dynal, Brown Deer, WI), that uses sequence‐specific priming by PCR to identify 19 alleles for genotypes in 12 donor/recipient (D/R) pairs at least 1 year posttransplant. There were two pairs that had different alleles in the recipient that were not found in the donor. One pair had different alleles found in the donor that were not present in the recipient. Two pairs had difference in alleles in both the donor and recipient. Seven of the 12 pairs had the same KIR genotype. Eight of the 12 pairs (both donor and recipient) exhibited a haplotype with 2DL2+ and 2DS2+. Four of the 12 exhibited a haplotype 2DL2− and 2DS2−. Three out of four of these recipients had increased creatinine levels and at least one graded rejection episode. One of these three has lost their graft. In conclusion, the genotyping of HLA‐matched sibling kidney transplant D/R pairs demonstrates that there may be an association of higher risk for poor graft function when both genotypes lack 2DL2 and 2DS2.
14th International HLA and Immunogenetics Workshop: Report on KIR receptors and their applications
Authors: Middleton D. , Christiansen F. T.
Published: April 2007

During the last few years many laboratories have developed a keen interest in detecting killer immunoglobulin‐like receptor (KIR) receptor genes in various populations, diseases and in stem cell transplantation. At the 14th International Histocompatibility Workshop held in Melbourne in December 2006, many of these laboratories presented their findings at a special session. To introduce this work, we provide an introduction to KIR receptors and an outline of previous applications of KIR receptor typing prior to the Workshop.
KIRs and autoimmune disease: studies in systemic lupus erythematosus and scleroderma
Authors: Pellett F. , Siannis F. , Vukin I. , Lee P. , Urowitz M. B. , Gladman D. D.
Published: April 2007

We investigated killer immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIRs) and the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐C ligands for the corresponding inhibitory KIRs in Caucasian patients, 304 with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and 90 with scleroderma [or progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS)] compared with 416 Caucasian controls. Compared with controls, KIR2DS1 in the absence of KIR2DS2 was increased in both SLE (P= 0.04) and PSS (P= 0.02). Only 42% of KIR2DS1‐positive PSS patients had the appropriate HLA‐C ligand for the corresponding inhibitory KIR compared with 61% of KIR2DS1 positive controls (P= 0.02). In the PSS group the presence of at least either activating KIR2DS1 and/or 2DS2 was significantly increased in patients when compared with controls (P= 0.001). This suggests that KIR receptors play a role in susceptibility to both PSS and SLE.
Influence of killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor genotypes on acute graft‐vs‐host disease after unrelated hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in Koreans
Authors: Kim S.‐Y. , Choi H.‐B. , Yoon H.‐Y. , Choi E.‐J. , Cho B. , Kim H.‐K. , Kim Y.‐J. , Kim H.‐J. , Min C.‐K. , Kim D.‐W. , Lee J.‐W. , Min W.‐S. , Kim C.‐C. , Kim T.‐G.
Published: April 2007

Interactions between killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIRs) and human leukocyte antigen class I ligands influence the development of the natural killer cell repertoire and the responses to infection, cancer, and allogeneic tissue. In this study, the association of KIR genes with acute graft‐vs‐host disease (GVHD) was investigated in 44 pairs of leukemia patients and their unrelated donors for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Donors with more than 12 KIR genes showed significantly decreased frequencies of severe acute GVHD compared with donors with less than 11 KIR genes (P < 0.05). The distribution of KIR genotypes was not different between severe and mild acute GVHD in patients and donors, respectively. These results suggest that the number of KIR genes in donors could influence the occurrence of acute GVHD after unrelated HSCT.
14th International HLA and Immunogenetics Workshop: Report on non‐classical class I genes
Authors: Arnaiz‐Villena A.
Published: April 2007

Non‐classical class I genes are encoding for cell surface proteins that have largely yet unknown functions. Although some of these proteins (human leukocyte antigens E, F and G) have been shown to present peptides, their polymorphism is very restricted at the peptide‐binding region. In the present Workshop, several papers were presented addressing detection, evolutive and functional issues of these proteins. The general inhibitory immunological function of these proteins is put forward.
MHC‐F polymorphism and evolution
Authors: Moscoso J. , Serrano‐Vela J. Ignacio , Arnaiz‐Villena A.
Published: April 2007

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC)‐F class Ib locus shows a limited polymorphism, and the function of its mainly intracellular protein is not clear. We have identified human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐F orthologous DNA sequences in Pongidae in order to study the MHC‐F gene evolution and its products’ function. HLA‐F orthologous complementary DNA transcripts are found in chimpanzee and in the new primate species studied (bonobo, gorilla and orangutan). Analyses of the predicted amino acid sequences and their comparison with other primate MHC‐F proteins show that MHC‐F may be a protein with a typical class I structure and that the key residues of the peptide‐binding region are highly conserved in MHC‐F in all studied primates species. Thus, MHC‐F conservation along the primate evolution suggests an important role in cellular physiology. It is possible that the MHC‐F protein could be involved, together with MHC‐G and MHC‐E, in the natural killer cell activity regulation, although rhesus macaque cannot express complete surface MHC‐G orthologue molecules.
Association of killer immunoglobulin‐like receptors and their HLA Class I ligands with progression of chronic hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: López‐Vázquez A. , Rodrigo L. , López‐Larrea C.
Published: April 2007

This part of the workshop addressed the results of a study on killer immonoglobulin‐like receptors and hepatitis C virus disease progression.
Leaf expansion in Phaseolus: transient auxin‐induced growth increase
Authors: Keller Christopher P.
Published: April 2007

Control of leaf expansion by auxin is not well understood. Evidence from short‐term exogenous applications and from treatment of excised tissues suggests auxin positively influences growth. Manipulations of endogenous leaf auxin content, however, suggest that long‐term auxin suppresses leaf expansion. This study attempts to clarify the growth effects of auxin on unifoliate (primary) leaves of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) by reexamining the response to auxin treatment of both excised leaf strips and attached leaves. Leaf strips, incubated in culture conditions that promoted steady elongation for up to 48 h, treated with 10 μMα‐naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) responded with an initial surge of elongation growth complete within 10 h, followed by insensitivity. A range of NAA concentrations from 0.1 to 300 μM induced increased strip elongation after 24 and 48 h. Increased elongation and epinastic curvature of leaf strips was found specific to active auxins. Expanding attached unifoliates treated once with aqueous auxin NAA at 1.0 mM showed both an initial surge in growth lasting 4–6 h followed by growth inhibition sustained at least as long as 24 h post‐treatment. Auxin‐induced inhibition of leaf expansion was associated with smaller epidermal cell area. Together, the results suggest increasing leaf auxin first increases growth and then slows growth through inhibition of cell expansion. Excised leaf strips retain only the initial increased growth response to auxin and not the subsequent growth inhibition, either as a consequence of wounding or as a consequence of isolation from the plant.
Immunohistochemical investigation of canine episcleritis
Authors: Breaux Carrie B. , Sandmeyer Lynne S. , Grahn Bruce H.
Published: April 2007

Objectives To identify macrophages, B cells and T cells in archived canine episcleral biopsies and to correlate these findings with the clinical presentation and therapeutic outcome.

Procedures Archived formalin‐fixed biopsies were immunohistochemically labeled for CD18, CD79a, and CD3 to identify macrophages, B cells and T cells, respectively. Slides were digitally photographed and positive cells were manually counted. Signalment, duration of illness, affected eye(s), treatment, and therapeutic outcome were reviewed for each dog. Dogs were divided into groups based on clinical presentation (unilateral episcleritis, bilateral episcleritis or nodular granulomatous episclerokeratitis (NGE).

Results Twenty‐four cases were evaluated. There were 19 episcleritis (13 unilateral, six bilateral) and five NGE cases. The mean age for clinical manifestations of unilateral episcleritis was 6.8 years, bilateral episcleritis was 8.7 years, and NGE was 3.8 years. The Cocker Spaniel was over‐represented in the episcleritis groups. All NGE cases were Collies. Approximately 50% of the unilateral episcleritis cases resolved and did not require long‐term therapy. Almost all cases of bilateral episcleritis and NGE required continuous medical therapy to maintain remission. There was a significantly higher percentage of B lymphocytes in biopsies from lesions that required ongoing medical therapy to maintain lesion remission than in the lesions that resolved, and for which medications were discontinued (P = 0.0471).

Conclusions The prognosis for resolution of NGE and bilateral episcleritis without long‐term medical therapy is poor. There is a significant difference in the inflammatory cell population in episcleritis that resolved with medical therapy vs. episcleritis that required ongoing medical therapy.
Shope fibroma virus keratitis and spontaneous cataracts in a domestic rabbit
Authors: Keller Rachel L. , Hendrix Diane V. H. , Greenacre Cheryl
Published: April 2007

A 7‐year‐old domestic rabbit presented for an enlarging ventral perilimbal mass OS. Keratectomy was performed to remove the mass. A diagnosis of Shope fibroma virus keratitis was confirmed based on signalment, clinical signs, histologic evaluation and virus isolation. Progression of bilateral cataracts leading to visual deficits was addressed with phacoemulsification. The rabbit remained visual and comfortable 5 months postoperatively and free of recurrence of the limbal mass 9 months after initial presentation.
Acute blindness in a dog caused by an explosive blast
Authors: Shelah Michal , Weinberger Dov , Ofri Ron
Published: April 2007

A 3‐year‐old, intact male, mixed breed dog was presented with a complaint of acute blindness. Ten days previously, the area where the dog was walking came under a rocket attack, and a rocket landed and exploded 300 meters away from the dog. Physical examination was unremarkable. Ophthalmoscopic examination revealed posterior segment fibrin clots and extensive vitreal hemorrhage in the right eye. A total retinal detachment (360° retinal dialysis) with no evidence of hemorrhage was noted in the left eye. There was no sign of any penetrating ocular trauma, and it was assumed that the posterior segment findings were primary injuries caused by the blast wave itself. Following anti‐inflammatory treatment, partial vision was restored in the right eye. Surgical re‐attachment of the retina was discussed and declined by the owner. This report describes, for the first time, vitreal hemorrhage and retinal detachment as the sole injuries caused by an explosive blast wave.
Canine ocular histiocytic sarcoma
Authors: Naranjo Carolina , Dubielzig Richard R. , Friedrichs Kristen R.
Published: April 2007

Objective To describe and characterize histiocytic sarcoma (HS) first detected in the eyes of dogs using the large database at the comparative ocular pathology laboratory of Wisconsin (COPLOW).

Methods Cases diagnosed as HS were selected from the COPLOW database. Slides were reviewed to describe the cellular morphology, localize the tumor within the globe, record the tumor distribution and measure the size of the tumor. Further sections were taken to perform immunohistochemistry for Melan‐A, CD18 and S‐100, and for ferric iron staining. The following clinical information was recorded: breed, age, gender, laterality, clinical signs upon presentation and follow‐up information obtained by response to a mailed survey and phone contact.

Results Twenty‐six cases were confirmed as being HS according to the immunohistochemical results (CD18 positive and Melan‐A negative). The most prevalent breed was Rottweiler (eight cases), followed by Retriever breeds (seven Golden Retrievers and five Labrador Retrievers). The mean age was 8.61 ± 2.43 years. There were three intact male, eight castrated male, one intact female and 14 spayed female dogs. In 15 dogs there were no concurrent systemic clinical signs at the time of diagnosis. Sixteen of 19 dogs with follow‐up information available died as a result of causes related to the tumor, although only three of them received a necropsy. Survival time varied between 5 days and 6 months after enucleation. Three of the dogs were alive at the time the information was gathered. Mean tumor surface was 0.613 ± 0.38 cm2. S‐100 was diffusely positive in 10 cases, isolated positive cells were found in 11 cases and five cases were completely negative. Seven of the cases were positive for ferric iron.

ConclusionsHistiocytic sarcoma must be considered in the differential diagnosis of dogs with intraocular masses, especially in Rottweilers and Retriever breeds. Because it carries poor prognosis, it must be distinguished from melanoma. A good discriminator for this purpose in paraffin‐embedded tissues is finding CD18‐positive cells and no reactivity against Melan‐A. S‐100 and ferric iron staining does not seem to be useful. Ocular HS is considered to be a manifestation of a systemic disease even when the disease is first recognized in the eye.
Embryogenetics: gene control of the embryogenesis of the eye
Authors: Barishak Robert Y. , Ofri Ron
Published: April 2007

In recent years there have been significant advances in our knowledge and understanding of the genetic control of embryonic development. The aim of this paper is to review the current state of knowledge regarding genetic control of embryogenesis, the first stage of ocular development. Products of numerous genes participate in signaling, induction and control during the formation of the neural plate, groove and tube, key events leading to the development of the future eye.
The value of three‐dimensional transrectal ultrasonography in staging prostate cancer
Authors: Mitterberger Michael , Pinggera Germar‐Michael , Pallwein Leo , Gradl Johann , Frauscher Ferdinand , Bartsch Georg , Strasser Hannes , Akkad Thomas , Horninger Wolfgang
Published: April 2007

OBJECTIVE

To use three‐dimensional transrectal ultrasonography (3D‐TRUS) to reconstruct the prostate, and thus determine its value in staging clinically localized prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 180 patients with newly diagnosed clinically localized prostate cancer were assessed using 3D‐TRUS for staging. TRUS findings were compared with histopathological staging after radical prostatectomy.

RESULTS

Pathological staging of specimens showed extracapsular extension in 69 patients, of whom 53 had pathological capsular perforation and 16 had seminal vesicle invasion. 3D‐TRUS identified 58 patients with sites of extracapsular extension with 84% sensitivity, 96% specificity, 94% positive predictive value, 91% negative predictive value and an overall accuracy of 92%. Of the 16 patients with seminal vesicle invasion 14 were identified correctly on 3D‐TRUS. Overall the 3D‐TRUS staging sensitivity was 84%, specificity 96%, positive predictive value 93%, negative predictive value 91% and accuracy 91%.

CONCLUSIONS

3D‐TRUS seems to be an accurate technique for staging localized prostate cancer. If 3D‐TRUS indicates locally advanced disease, the probability of capsular perforation or seminal vesicle invasion is very high.
Clinicopathological features and prognosis of synchronous bilateral renal cell carcinoma: an international multicentre experience
Authors: Klatte Tobias , Wunderlich Heiko , Patard Jean‐Jacques , Kleid Mark D. , Lam John S. , Junker Kerstin , Schubert Jörg , Böhm Malte , Allhoff Ernst P. , Kabbinavar Fairooz F. , Crepel Maxime , Cindolo Luca , De La Taille Alexandre , Tostain Jacques , Mejean Arnaud , Soulie Michel , Bellec Laurent , Bernhard Jean Christophe , Ferriere Jean‐Marie , Pfister Christian , Albouy Baptiste , Colombel Marc , Zisman Amnon , Belldegrun Arie S. , Pantuck Allan J.
Published: April 2007

An interesting group of papers in this section is headed by two papers on synchronous bilateral renal tumours, one from an international group of authors and one from Germany. The large series of patients are examined carefully by both groups, and the findings should be useful for all who are interested in this area.

Authors from the UK examine the role of lactate dehydrogenase as a prognostic factor for testicular cancer. They found that it had limited sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value for detecting relapse, with false‐positive elevations being common.

OBJECTIVE

To present a multicentre experience and the largest cohort to date of nonmetastatic (N0M0) synchronous bilateral renal cell carcinoma (RCC), as because it is rare the single‐institutional experience is limited.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively studied 10 337 patients from 12 urological centres to identify patients with N0M0 synchronous bilateral RCC; the clinicopathological features and cancer‐specific survival were compared to a cohort treated for N0M0 unilateral RCC.

RESULTS

In all, 153 patients had synchronous bilateral solid renal tumours, of whom 135 (88%) had synchronous bilateral RCC, 118 with nonmetastatic disease; 91% had nonfamilial bilateral RCC. Bilateral clear cell RCC was the major histological subtype (76%), and papillary RCC was the next most frequent (19%). Multifocality was found in 54% of bilateral RCCs. Compared with unilateral RCC, patients did not differ in Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) and T classification, but bilateral RCCs were more frequently multifocal (54% vs 16%, P < 0.001) and of the papillary subtype (19% vs 12%), and less frequently clear cell RCC (76% vs 83%, P = 0.005). For the outcome, patients with nonmetastatic synchronous bilateral RCC and unilateral RCC had a similar prognosis (P = 0.63); multifocality did not affect survival (P = 0.60). Multivariate analysis identified ECOG PS, T classification, and Fuhrman grade, but not laterality, as independent prognostic factors for cancer‐specific survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with N0M0 synchronous bilateral RCC and N0M0 unilateral RCC have a similar prognosis. The frequency of a familial history for RCC (von Hippel‐Lindau disease or familial RCC) was significantly greater in bilateral synchronous than in unilateral RCC. The significant pathological findings in synchronous bilateral RCC are papillary subtype and multifocality.
Is extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy the preferred treatment option for elderly patients with urinary stone? A multivariate analysis of the effect of patient age on treatment outcome
Authors: Ng Chi‐Fai , Wong Annie , Tolley David
Published: April 2007

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effect of patient age on the stone‐free rate (SFR) in patients with urinary calculi treated by extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 2192 solitary radio‐opaque urinary stones of 5–15 mm were identified in adult patients receiving primary ESWL. Patients were divided into three age groups, i.e. ≤ 40, 41–60 and >60 years (579, 1026 and 587 patients, respectively). Multiple logistic regression was used to assess the effect of age and other possible predicting factors (gender, stone characteristics, e.g. side, site and size, and the type of lithotripter used) on the SFR at 3 months after treatment.

RESULTS

The overall adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for the SFR for those aged 41–60 and >60 years (taking those aged ≤ 40 years as the reference) were 0.708 (0.573–0.875; P = 0.001) and 0.643 (0.506–0.818; P < 0.001). However, if the patients were divided into those with renal or ureteric stones, only the SFR of the former was affected by age, and the adjusted odds ratios were 0.665 (0.512–0.864; P = 0.002) and 0.629 (0.470–0.841; P = 0.002), respectively. Ageing had no effect on the SFR for ureteric stones.

CONCLUSION

The SFR after ESWL for renal stones, but not ureteric stones, was significantly lower in older patients. Further studies on the effects of ageing on renal stone clearance after ESWL are needed to improve stone management in the elderly population.
Organ‐sparing surgery does not lead to greater antisperm antibody levels than orchidectomy
Authors: Leonhartsberger Nicolai , Gozzi Christian , Akkad Thomas , Springer‐Stoehr Brigitte , Bartsch Georg , Steiner Hannes
Published: April 2007

OBJECTIVE

To assess a possible development of antisperm antibodies (ASA), present in a high percentage of infertile patients, after organ‐sparing surgery for small testicular tumours, to identify any additional immunogenic effect of this procedure compared with standard orchidectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Samples of sera were assessed from 54 men who had had surgery between 2000 and 2005 for testicular tumour; the men were divided into two groups, i.e. group A (23) had had organ‐sparing tumour resection and group B (31) had had inguinal orchidectomy. Other possible causes of ASA besides testicular tumour were excluded in all patients. The blood samples were obtained during follow‐up visits and the circulating ASA in serum determined using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

The mean (range) tumour diameter was statistically significantly greater (P < 0.03) in group B, at 33.6 (2–130) mm, than in group A, at 12 (2–30) mm. There were significantly more stromal tumours in group A than group B (P < 0.02). Most importantly, the mean (range) ASA levels were not statistically significantly (P > 0.3) higher in group A, at 29 (15–59) U/mL, than in group B, at 24.8 (12–39) U/mL. There was also no statistically significant correlation between ASA levels and clinical stage, length of follow‐up after therapy, patient age, tumour size and type of histology.

CONCLUSION

From these data, organ‐sparing surgery does not lead to greater ASA levels than orchidectomy and patients are therefore at no greater risk of developing an autoimmune infertility.
Ring a Ring o’ Roses: Quality Journals and Gamesmanship in Management Studies*
Authors: Macdonald Stuart , Kam Jacqueline
Published: April 2007

abstract  A paper in one of the quality journals of Management Studies is much more important as a unit of measurement than as a contribution to knowledge. It measures academic performance and determines much academic funding. There is consequently some pressure to publish in quality journals. But quality journals are defined in terms that are themselves defined in terms of quality journals – a circularity that explains both the paper's title and the frustration of those who do not mix in these circles. We examine the gamesmanship of publishing in quality journals. Findings from a survey of heads of Management Studies departments in UK universities suggest that such gamesmanship is common. Cunning and calculation now support scholarship in Management Studies. Gamesmanship will remain common until the rewards for publishing attach to the content of papers, to what is published rather than where it is published. We propose a ‘Tinkerbell Solution’: without belief in the value of a paper in a quality journal, the game is no longer worth playing.
INDEPENDENCE DAY FOR THE ‘OLD LADY’: A NATURAL EXPERIMENT ON THE IMPLICATIONS OF CENTRAL BANK INDEPENDENCE*
Authors: CHADHA JAGJIT S. , MACMILLAN PETER , NOLAN CHARLES
Published: April 2007

Central bank independence is widely thought be a sine qua non of a credible commitment to price stability. The surprise decision by the UK government to grant operational independence to the Bank of England in 1997 affords us a natural experiment with which to gauge the impact on the yield curve from the adoption of central bank independence. We document the extent to which the decision to grant independence was ‘news’ and illustrate that the reduction in medium‐ and long‐term nominal interest rates was some 50 basis points, which we show to be consistent with a sharp increase in policy‐maker's aversion to inflation deviations from target. We therefore suggest that central bank independence represents one of the clearest signals available to elected politicians about their preferences on the control of inflation.
ESTIMATES OF THE IMPACT OF LABOUR MARKET ATTACHMENT AND ATTITUDES ON THE FEMALE WAGE*
Authors: SWAFFIELD JOANNA K.
Published: April 2007

This paper estimates the returns to full‐time and part‐time experience and the impact of career interruptions on the female wage using detailed labour market history data from the British Household Panel Survey, 1991–97. We show that the effect of time out of the labour market varies across activity undertaken while out, gender and degree of male occupational domination. Estimates of the unexplained portion of the gender wage differential are shown to reduce by almost 40 per cent when these detailed measures of labour market experience are used. Finally, we show that labour market attitudes have a significant impact on the female wage.
Solubility and mechanical properties of heat‐cured whey protein‐based edible films compared with that of collagen and natural casings
Authors: AMIN S , USTUNOL Z
Published: April 2007

Water solubility, tensile strength (TS), wet strength (WS) and elongation at break (%E) of whey protein isolate (WPI) films were compared to that of collagen films and natural casings. Increase in heat‐curing temperature and time caused decreased (P < 0.001) water solubility and increased TS and WS of the films. Heat‐cured WPI films with similar properties (solubility, TS, WS and %E) to collagen films were obtained by optimizing heat‐curing conditions. Overall, natural casings had lower solubility, TS and %E but higher WS than collagen and heat‐cured WPI films. Heat‐cured WPI films have the potential as an alternative to collagen films and casings.
The formation of thermophilic spores during the manufacture of whole milk powder
Authors: SCOTT SARA A , BROOKS JOHN D , RAKONJAC JASNA , WALKER KYLIE M R , FLINT STEVE H
Published: April 2007

A survey was undertaken at a whole milk powder manufacturing plant to determine the origin and the rate of spore formation of thermophilic bacteria. Spores were generally not detected (< 10 cfu/mL) in either the pasteurization process or the pasteurized milk directed into the powder plant. The predominant sites of spore formation were the preheater plate heat exchanger and the evaporator. Spores began to be detected approximately 9 h into an 18‐h manufacturing run. Spore isolates were identified as Anoxybacillus flavithermus and Geobacillus species. A. flavithermus predominated in the preheat section, whereas a mix of both organisms was present in the later manufacturing stages.
Rheological, textural and melting properties of commercial samples of some of the different types of pasteurized processed cheese
Authors: LU YANJIE , SHIRASHOJI NOBUAKI , LUCEY JOHN A
Published: April 2007

The detailed rheological and textural properties of commercially available samples of the three major categories of pasteurized processed cheese in the USA, that is, pasteurized process American cheese (PPA), pasteurized process cheese product (PPP) and pasteurized process cheese food (PPF), were analysed. All samples had similar pH values, ranging from 5.65 to 5.87, but most were ∼5.7. Even within each of the categories considerable differences were observed in textural and melting behaviour. The samples with the lowest melt and the lowest loss tangent parameter from the rheological tests were two PPF and one PPA samples. These two PPF samples also had the highest hardness and adhesiveness force. Significant correlations were observed between several textural, rheological and melting properties.
Antioxidative ability of native and thermized sour whey in oxidation‐catalysed model systems†
Authors: SHON JINHAN , HAQUE ZAHUR U
Published: April 2007

Antioxidative properties of sour (cottage) were evaluated with (thermized) and without (native) heat treatment (80°C for 30 min). A model system comprising a Tween 20 stabilized peanut oil in phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) emulsion containing lipid oxidation catalysts, FeCl
3, H2O2 and ascorbate was used. Native sour whey powder (SWP) was significantly better than thermized whey in terms of limiting the formation of thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances and peroxide value. Antioxidative ability was best at pH 3.0 and decreased with increasing pH. SWP (20%, w/v) was significantly better than all commonly used antioxidants tested after 96 h of incubation at 40°C.
Limitations of Biodiversity Databases: Case Study on Seed‐Plant Diversity in Tenerife, Canary Islands
Authors: HORTAL JOAQUÍN , LOBO JORGE M. , JIMÉNEZ‐VALVERDE ALBERTO
Published: April 2007

Abstract:  Databases on the distribution of species can be used to describe the geographic patterns of biodiversity. Nevertheless, they have limitations. We studied three of these limitations: (1) inadequacy of raw data to describe richness patterns due to sampling bias, (2) lack of survey effort assessment (and lack of exhaustiveness in compiling data about survey effort), and (3) lack of coverage of the geographic and environmental variations that affect the distribution of organisms. We used a biodiversity database (BIOTA‐Canarias) to analyze richness data from a well‐known group (seed plants) in an intensively surveyed area (Tenerife Island). Observed richness and survey effort were highly correlated. Species accumulation curves could not be used to determine survey effort because data digitalization was not exhaustive, so we identified well‐sampled sites based on observed richness to sampling effort ratios. We also developed a predictive model based on the data from well‐sampled sites and analyzed the origin of the geographic errors in the obtained extrapolation by means of a geographically constrained cross‐validation. The spatial patterns of seed‐plant species richness obtained from BIOTA‐Canarias data were incomplete and biased. Therefore, some improvements are needed to use this database (and many others) in biodiversity studies. We propose a protocol that includes controls on data quality, improvements on data digitalization and survey design to improve data quality, and some alternative data analysis strategies that will provide a reliable picture of biodiversity patterns.
CHLOROPHYLL PIGMENTS IN METHANOL EXTRACTS FROM TEN AXENIC CULTURED DIATOMS AND THREE GREEN ALGAE AS DETERMINED BY REVERSE PHASE HPLC WITH FLUOROMETRIC DETECTION 1
Authors: Otsuki Akira , Watanabe Makoto M. , Sugahara Kiyoshi
Published: April 2007

Chlorophyll pigments in 100% mrthanol extracts from ten axenic cultured diatoms and three green algae were examined using reverse phase HPLC with Jluoromelric detector and field desorption mass spectrometry to identify same unknown peaks tn HPLC chromatograms from natural phytoplankton samples.

Characteristics of the HPLC chromatograms were the presence of chlorophyllide and two unknown peaks. Field desorption mass spectrometry of the oxidation products of authentic chlorophyll a suggested that the peaks were due to 10‐hydroxy and 10‐hydroxy lactone chlorophylls a and 10‐methoxy and 10‐methoxy lactone chlorophylls a fanned during each process of filtration, storage at ‐20°C and extraction in methanol.

The present results indicated that a new type of chlorophyll c derivative may exist and, as far as we use filtration to collect phytoplankton and store the sample under air even at ‐20°C, the formation of oxidation products of chlorophyll pigments may he unavoidable.
HAPLOID SPORE FORMATION FOLLOWING ARRESTED CELL FUSION IN CHLAMYDOMOXAS (CHLOROPJIYTA) 1
Authors: VanWhikle‐Swift Karen P. , Aliaga George R. , Pommerville Jeffrey C.
Published: April 2007

Sexual fusion of haploid Chlamydomonas gametes produces a diploid zygote which undergoes sporulation (maturation). We have used a combination of genetic and cellular approaches to evaluate the role(s) of gametic cell and nuclear fusion in the progression of sporulation. A fusion‐arrested strain, zym‐26–3. was obtained following ultraviolet irradiation of vegetative haploid cells of the homothallic species Chlamydomonas monoica Strehlow. Using the DNA‐specific fluorochrome, DAPI, we determined that diploidy was rarely achieved although nuclear migration to the base of the cytoplasmic bridge connecting the gametes and attempted transit through the tubule could be easily documented. Unusual cytoplasmic‘buds’which developed adjacent to the cytoplasmic bridge in sporulating haploids were usually found to contain a migrant nucleus. Using transmission electron microscopy, we determined that ultrastructural changes typically associated with sporulation of a diploid zygote (e.g. spore wall formation; plastid dedifferentiation and associated lipid accumulation; nuclear migration and heterochromatization) could occur following arrested cell fusion despite the absence of nuclear fusion. Genetic analysis of the zym‐26–3 strain revealed two unlinked mutations: cf‐1 responsible for the failure to complete cell fusion; and ger‐8, a mutant allele not affecting cell fusion, but interfering with late stages of spore maturation and germination.‘Cytoplasmic budding’was observed in strains carrying each of these mutations singly and may be a common secondary consequence of disturbances in the relative timing of interrelated processes required for spare wall assembly.
PHYLOGENETIC DISTRIBUTION OF THE MAJOR DIATOM LIGHT‐HARVESTING PIGMENT‐PROTEIN DETERMINED BY IMMUNOLOGICAL METHODS 1
Authors: Friedmans Alan L. , Alberte Randall S.
Published: April 2007

Monospecific, polyclonal antibodies raised against the apoprotein of the major light‐harvesting pigment‐protein of Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin UTEX 646 were used to determine (1) whether this complex was common to the class Bacillariophyceae, whose members contain chlorophylls a and c and fucoxanlhin; (2) whether antigenically‐related apoproteins were present in other chlorophyll c‐containing groups, and (3) whether there was immunological homology with the light‐hanvsting chlorophyll a/b protein of similar photosynthetic function in the Chlorophyta and vascular plants. We have used protein blotting techniques to show that antibodies against the two P. tricornutum light‐harvesting complex polypeptides cross‐reacted with one or two polypeptides of similar molecular weight (17–21 kD) in all ten diatom species examined, representing two orders and six families. No cross‐reactivity was obtained with total membrane polypeptides from isolated representatives of three chromophyte algal divisions (Chrysophyta, Cryptophyta, Pyrrophyta), all of which contained chlorophyll c. No cross‐reactivity was observed with membrane Polypeptides isolated from members of two classes of Chlorophte algae. These data suggest that the Bacillariophyceae may be monophyletic, and that the primary structure of the diatom light‐harvesting complex is not closely related to pigment‐protein complexes with similar function in other chlorophyll c‐containing unicellular algal groups. Lastly, it may be possible to use the antibodies to the diatom light‐harvesting polypeptides as specific markers for diatoms in natural phytoplankton assemblages.
The role of iron nutrition in photosynthesis and nitrogen assimilation in SCENEDESMUS QUADRICAUDA (Chlorophyceae) 1
Authors: Rueler John G. , Ades. Dennis R.
Published: April 2007

The rate of photosynthesis and nitrate uptake are related to the iron concentration in the medium for the green alga Scenedesmus quadricauda (Turp.) Breb. Increased iron leads to changes in chlorophyll a concentration, carbon fixation rate per chlorophyll a and in vivo fluorescence characteristics. These parameters all indicate that the efficiency of photosynthesis is related to iron nutrition. Nitrate uptake rate is also a function of both Fe and light Iron‐limited cultures had decreased nitrate uptake at low light whereas ammonium uptake was relatively constant. Iron‐limited cultures fixed about twice as much carbon into protein relative to the total carbon fixed. Iron plays a crucial role in the bioenergetics of carbon and nitrogen metabolism and may be important in controlling patterns of productivity.
ARAGONITE CRYSTALS IN SPIROGYRA SP. (CHLOROPHYTA)
Authors: Mann H. , Mann S. , Fyfe W. S.
Published: April 2007

Intracellular crystals of aragonite have been identified by selected area electron diffraction (SAED) in a species of the freshwater filamentous alga Spirogyra from the Thames River, Ontario, Canada. The crystals are 2 to 24 μm in diameter, and characterized by a unique cross‐shaped morphology, in which needle‐like, or prismatic outgrowths develop from a common axis. Crystals may be dispersed throughout filaments, but tend to cluster as aggregates towards the centre.
THE ASSOCIATION OF ROSETTE AND GLOBULE TERMINAL COMPLEXES WITH CELLULOSE MICROFIBRIL ASSEMBLY IN NITELLA TRANSLUCENS VAR. AXILLARIS (CHAROPHYCEAE)1,2
Authors: Hotchkiss Arland T. , Brown R. Malcolm
Published: April 2007

A freeze‐fracture investigation of the putative cellulose synthesizing complex (terminal complex) morphology in Nitella translucens var. axillaris (A. Br.) R.D.W. internodal cells revealed single solitary EF globules and PF rosettes on the plasma membrane. The average density of rosettes in elongating internodal cells was 5.6 μm−2 with slight spatial variation observed. In only three other algal genera (all zygnematalean) have rosette / globule terminal complexes been observed, while this characteristic is common to all vascular plants and one moss thus far investigated. This evidence strongly suggests that the rosette type of terminal complex morphology is an additional characteristic of charophycean algae and lends further support to the hypothesis that this group of algae represents the evolutionary line that gave rise to vascular plants.

Observations were also made from the freeze‐fracture of Nitella internodal cells concerning the orientation of cell wall microfibrils and cytoskeletal elements near the plasma membrane. The pattern of microfibril orientation in growing internodal cells is initially transverse to the cell long axis, becoming progressively axial presumably due to the strain of elongation. In mature internodal cells, the pattern of microfibril orientation is helicoidal. Microtubules appressed to the inner surface of the plasma membrane are oriented parallel to the most recently formed microfibrils in elongating and mature internodal cells.
SILICATE DEFICIENCY AND LIPID SYNTHESIS OF MARINE DIATOMS1,2
Authors: Taguchi Satoru , Hirata Janice A. , Laws Edward A.
Published: April 2007

Lipid synthesis of three marine diatoms was studied with a 14CO2 incorporation technique in silicate limited batch cultures. Growth rates were independent of the silicate concentration but the cellular yields were proportional to the initial amount of silicate. At the beginning of the stationary growth phase, lipid synthesis rates per unit culture volume increased by 1.7 times for Chaetoceros gracilis, 3.1 times for Hantzschia sp., and 2.8 times for Cyclotella sp., respectively compared to those during the exponential growth phase. Lipid carbon accounted for as much as 57% of the carbon in C. gracilis, 71% in Hantzschia sp., and 65% in Cyclotella sp., respectively. Additional enrichment with silicate during stationary growth phase allowed the cultures to grow further. Lipid synthesis rates were reduced during the subsequent growth phase, and the growth rates themselves were dependent on the level of biomass achieved during the previous stationary phase. However, the cellular yields were similar and probably controlled by light.
KARYOLOGICAL STUDIES OF THREE SPECIES OF SCYTOSIPHONACEAE (PHAEOPHYTA) FROM COASTAL NORTH CAROLINA1
Authors: Kapraun Donald F. , Boone Paul W.
Published: April 2007

Chromosome numbers for three species of Scytosiphonaceae from the warm temperate coast of North Carolina are presented. Petalonia fascia (O. F. Mueller) Kuntze, P. zosterifolia (Reinke) Kuntze, and Scytosiphon lomentaria (Lyngbye) C. Agardh were all found to have twenty‐two chromosomes in both macro‐ and microthallus stages. The uniformity of chromosome numbers and morphology for all three taxa suggest a close genetic relationship and possible common ancestry.

Evidence of synchronous mitotic divisions is presented for the first time in the Phaeophyta. Both field collected and culture material of P. fascia and P. zosterifolia exhibited a 2–4 h post‐sunset peak in nuclear divisions. In actively growing macrothalli, up to 8% of the observed cells were found in some stage of mitosis. Data suggest that mitosis and the entire sequence of cytokinesis require approximately 2 h.
The effect of interruption of agitation on in vitro measures of platelet concentrates in additive solution
Authors: Van Der Meer Pieter F. , Liefting Lara A.E. , Pietersz Ruby N.I.
Published: April 2007

BACKGROUND: Interruption of agitation results in lower in vitro quality of platelet concentrates (PCs). The rates at which the deleterious effects occur, however, are unknown. Therefore, in vitro parameters of PCs in additive solution (AS) during various periods without agitation have been investigated.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: PCs from five buffy coats in AS (Composol, Fresenius HemoCare) were white cell (WBC)‐reduced by filtration. Four PCs were pooled and divided to obtain paired samples. Beginning immediately after processing, three PCs were stored without agitation and placed on an agitator after 16, 20, and 24 hours. The fourth PC was agitated throughout storage and served as reference (n = 10 paired experiments).

RESULTS: pH37°C on Day 7 was greater than 6.8 in reference PCs, and in PCs that were not agitated for 16 hours, longer interruption resulted in lower pH values. During interruption of agitation, metabolic rates were significantly higher in the study groups: glucose consumption was 12.5 ± 1.6 µmol per 1011 platelets (PLTs) per hour in PCs during the first 24 hours without interruption versus 2.0 ± 0.4 µmol per 1011 PLTs per hour in the reference group (p  < 0.01). Lactate formation was 24.7 ± 4.2 versus 3.9 ± 0.4 µmol per 1011 PLTs per hour in the above‐mentioned groups, respectively (p  < 0.01). Once replaced on the agitator, the metabolic rates lowered, but remained significantly elevated during consecutive storage days compared to the reference.

CONCLUSION: WBC‐reduced PCs in Composol AS may experience 16 hours without agitation with no permanent effects on in vitro measures compared to reference units. During interruption of agitation, glucose and lactate metabolism is elevated, resulting in lower pH values in the subsequent storage period.
Use of therapeutic plasma exchange in the management of acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ryan Lori J. , Bowman Robert , Zantek Nicole Dodge , Sherr Gregory , Maxwell Robert , Clark H. Brent , Mair David C.
Published: April 2007

BACKGROUND: Acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis (AHLE) is a rare, fatal, central nervous demyelinating disease characterized by a rapid fulminant clinical course. Successful management requires early diagnosis, aggressive management of cerebral edema, and immunosuppression. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is infrequently used and commences after initial management fails.

CASE REPORT: A 31‐year‐old man presented with right arm weakness, whose symptoms rapidly progressed to hemiplegia and aphasia. The patient was initially managed with glucocorticosteroids. Decompressive craniotomy and brain biopsies were performed when his intracranial pressure increased. Brain biopsy findings were consistent with AHLE. Mycoplasma pneumonia immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin M serologies revealed recent infection. Despite surgical and medical management, he decompensated on Day 11, and TPE was initiated. The patient received a total of 10 TPE treatments. On the fourth day of TPE treatment, he was extubated. Twenty‐one days after TPE began, he was ambulating with near normal muscle strength and was discharged. Four months after initial presentation, the patient has normal strength and is working full‐time.

CONCLUSIONS: AHLE has a fulminant course requiring accurate and rapid diagnosis. Successful therapy requires aggressive management of intracranial pressure and immunosuppression. Two other reports of AHLE document successful management with TPE. Each of these patients survived with minimal neurologic impairments. Given the likely immune‐mediated nature of this disease, combined treatment of steroids, surgery, and TPE may lead to shorter hospital stays and improved neurologic outcomes. Clinical studies are needed to further study the effect of TPE on neurologic outcome in AHLE.
Incidence of tacrolimus‐induced gingival overgrowth in the absence of calcium channel blockers: a short‐term study
Authors: Sekiguchi Ricardo Takiy , Paixão Caroline Gomes , Saraiva Luciana , Romito Giuseppe Alexandre , Pannuti Cláudio Mendes , Lotufo Roberto Fraga Moreira
Published: April 2007

Aim:The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and severity of gingival overgrowth (GO) induced by tacrolimus (Tcr) compared with ciclosporin A (CiA) in the absence of calcium channel blockers (CCB) in renal transplant recipients.

Methods:Forty patients (20 Tcr and 20 CiA) were evaluated before and 30 and 90 days after kidney transplantation. Demographic (age, gender) and periodontal parameters were recorded for all patients. Patients taking CCB at any time during the study were excluded from the investigation.

Results:The mean GO score was significantly lower (p=0.014) in the Tcr group (6.4%) compared with the CiA group (17.9%) after 90 days of immunosuppressive therapy. At 90 days post‐transplant, clinically significant GO was observed in four patients of the CiA group and in two of the Tcr group. This difference was not statistically significant (0.66).

Conclusion:No significant difference in the incidence of clinically significant GO was observed between the CiA and Tcr groups up to 90 days of immunosuppressive therapy.