bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of protein factors and U3 snoRNAs from a Brassica oleracea RNP complex involved in the processing of pre‐rRNA
Authors: Samaha Hala , Delorme Valérie , Pontvianne Frederic , Cooke Richard , Delalande Francois , Van Dorsselaer Alain , Echeverria Manuel , Sáez‐Vásquez Julio
Published: November 2009

We report on the structural characterization of a functional U3 snoRNA ribonucleoprotein complex isolated from Brassica oleracea. The BoU3 snoRNP complex (formerly NF D) binds ribosomal DNA (rDNA), specifically cleaves pre‐rRNA at the primary cleavage site in vitro and probably links transcription to early pre‐rRNA processing in vivo. Using a proteomic approach we have identified 62 proteins in the purified BoU3 snoRNP fraction, including small RNA associated proteins (Fibrillarin, NOP5/Nop58p, Diskerin/Cbf5p, SUS2/PRP8 and CLO/GFA1/sn114p) and 40S ribosomal associated proteins (22 RPS and four ARCA‐like proteins). Another major protein group is composed of chaperones/chaperonins (HSP81/TCP‐1) and at least one proteasome subunit (RPN1a). Remarkably, RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP) and Tudor staphylococcal nuclease (TSN) proteins, which have RNA‐ and/or DNA‐associated activities, were also revealed in the complex. Furthermore, three U3 snoRNA variants were identified in the BoU3 snoRNP fraction, notably an evolutionarily conserved and variable stem loop structure located just downstream from the C‐box domain of the U3 sequence structures. We conclude that the BoU3 snoRNP complex is mainly required for 40S pre‐ribosome synthesis. It is also expected that U3 snoRNA variants and interacting proteins might play a major role in BoU3 snoRNP complex assembly and/or function. This study provides a basis for further investigation of these novel ribonucleoprotein factors and their role in plant ribosome biogenesis.
Microtubules are an intracellular target of the plant terpene citral
Authors: Chaimovitsh David , Abu‐Abied Mohamad , Belausov Eduard , Rubin Baruch , Dudai Nativ , Sadot Einat
Published: November 2009

Citral is a component of plant essential oils that possesses several biological activities. It has known medicinal traits, and is used as a food additive and in cosmetics. Citral has been suggested to have potential in weed management, but its precise mode of action at the cellular level is unknown. Here we investigated the immediate response of plant cells to citral at micromolar concentrations. It was found that microtubules of Arabidopsis seedlings were disrupted within minutes after exposure to citral in the gaseous phase, whereas actin filaments remained intact. The effect of citral on plant microtubules was both time‐ and dose‐dependent, and recovery only occurred many hours after a short exposure of several minutes to citral. Citral was also able to disrupt animal microtubules, albeit less efficiently. In addition, polymerization of microtubules in vitro was inhibited in the presence of citral. Taken together, our results suggest that citral is a potent, volatile, anti‐microtubule compound.
TOMATO AGAMOUS‐LIKE 1 is a component of the fruit ripening regulatory network
Authors: Itkin Maxim , Seybold Heike , Breitel Dario , Rogachev Ilana , Meir Sagit , Aharoni Asaph
Published: November 2009

After fertilization, the expanding carpel of fleshy fruit goes through a phase change to ripening. Although the role of ethylene signalling in mediating climacteric ripening has been established, knowledge regarding the regulation of ethylene biosynthesis and its association with fruit developmental programs is still lacking. A functional screen of tomato transcription factors showed that silencing of the TOMATO AGAMOUS‐LIKE 1 (TAGL1) MADS box gene results in altered fruit pigmentation. Over‐expressing TAGL1 as a chimeric repressor suggested a role in controlling ripening, as transgenic tomato fruit showed reduced carotenoid and ethylene levels, suppressed chlorophyll breakdown, and down‐regulation of ripening‐associated genes. Moreover, fruits over‐expressing TAGL1 accumulated more lycopene, and their sepals were swollen, accumulated high levels of the yellow flavonoid naringenin chalcone and contained lycopene. Transient promoter‐binding assays indicated that part of the TAGL1 activity in ripening is executed through direct activation of ACS2, an ethylene biosynthesis gene that has recently been reported to be a target of the RIN MADS box factor. Examination of the TAGL1 transcript and its over‐expression in the rin mutant background suggested that RIN does not regulate TAGL1 or vice versa. The results also indicated RIN‐dependent and ‐independent processes that are regulated by TAGL1. We also noted that fruit of TAGL1 loss‐of‐function lines had a thin pericarp layer, indicating an additional role for TAGL1 in carpel expansion prior to ripening. The results add a new component to the current model of the regulatory network that controls fleshy fruit ripening and its association with the ethylene biosynthesis pathway.
The flowering of Arabidopsis flower development
Authors: Irish Vivian F.
Published: November 2009

Flowers come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes. Despite this variety, flowers have a very stereotypical architecture, consisting of a series of sterile organs surrounding the reproductive structures. Arabidopsis, as the premier model system for molecular and genetic analyses of plant development, has provided a wealth of insights into how this architecture is specified. With the advent of the completion of the Arabidopsis genome sequence a decade ago, in combination with a rich variety of forward and reverse genetic strategies, many of the genes and regulatory pathways controlling flower initiation, patterning, growth and differentiation have been characterized. A central theme that has emerged from these studies is the complexity and abundance of both positive and negative feedback loops that operate to regulate different aspects of flower formation. Presumably, this considerable degree of feedback regulation serves to promote a robust and stable transition to flowering, even in the face of genetic or environmental perturbations. This review will summarize recent advances in defining the genes, the regulatory pathways, and their interactions, that underpin how the Arabidopsis flower is formed.
Hypersensitivity and oral tolerance in the absence of a secretory immune system
Authors: Karlsson M. R. , Johansen F.‐E. , Kahu H. , Macpherson A. , Brandtzaeg P.
Published: November 2009

To cite this article: Karlsson M‐R, Johansen F‐E, Kahu H, Macpherson A, Brandtzaeg P. Hypersensitivity and oral tolerance in the absence of a secretory immune system. Allergy 2010; 65: 561–570.

Background:  Mucosal immunity protects the epithelial barrier by immune exclusion of foreign antigens and by anti‐inflammatory tolerance mechanisms, but there is a continuing debate about the role of secretory immunoglobulins (SIgs), particularly SIgA, in the protection against allergy and other inflammatory diseases. Lack of secretory antibodies may cause immune dysfunction and affect mucosally induced (oral) tolerance against food antigens.

Methods:  We used polymeric Ig receptor (pIgR) knockout (KO) mice, which cannot export SIgA or SIgM, to study oral tolerance induction by ovalbumin (OVA) feeding and for parenteral antigen sensitization in the same animal.

Results:  Remarkable systemic hyperreactivity was observed in pIgR KO mice, as 50% died after intradermal OVA challenge, which was not seen in similarly sensitized and challenged wild‐type (WT) mice. Oral tolerance induced by OVA completely protected the sensitized pIgR KO mice against anaphylaxis and suppressed antibody levels (particularly IgG1) as well as delayed‐type hypersensitivity (DTH) to OVA. Delayed‐type hypersensitivity to a bystander antigen, human serum albumin, was also suppressed and T‐cell proliferation against OVA in vitro was reduced in tolerized compared with non‐tolerized pIgR KO mice. This effect was largely mediated by CD25+ T cells. Adoptive transfer of splenic putative regulatory T cells (CD4+ CD25+) obtained from OVA‐fed pIgR KO mice to naïve WT mice mediated suppression of DTH against OVA after sensitization of the recipients.

Conclusion:  Compensatory regulatory T‐cell function becomes critical in pIgR‐deficient mice to avoid the potentially catastrophic effects of systemic immune hyperreactivity, presumably resulting from defective secretory antibody‐mediated immune exclusion of microbial components.
Evaluation of ash pollen sensitization pattern using proteomic approach with individual sera from allergic patients
Authors: Poncet P. , Senechal H. , Clement G. , Purohit A. , Sutra J.‐P. , Desvaux F.‐X. , Wal J.‐M. , Pauli G. , Peltre G. , Gougeon M.‐L.
Published: November 2009

To cite this article: Poncet P, Senechal H, Clement G, Purohit A, Sutra J‐P, Desvaux F‐X, Wal J‐M, Pauli G, Peltre G, Gougeon M‐L. Evaluation of ash pollen sensitization pattern using proteomic approach with individual sera from allergic patients. Allergy 2010; 65: 571–580.

Background:  In Europe, sensitization to ash pollen induces pollinosis with cross‐reactivities with other pollen sources. The aim of the study was to identify the repertoire of ash pollen allergens and evaluate the extent of the diversity of the IgE response in ash allergic patients.

Methods:  The IgE reactivities of 114 ash pollen‐ and eight grass pollen‐sensitized patients were screened by 1D immunoblot (SDS–PAGE) against ash pollen extract. The IgE reactivities of 13 ash pollen‐ and two grass pollen‐sensitized patients were then evaluated in 2D immunoblots. Some IgE‐ and non‐IgE‐reactive proteins were identified by mass spectrometry.

Results:  In 1D analysis, 86% of sera showed binding to Fra e 1 (18–20 kDa), 23% to Fra e 2 (14 kDa), 3% to Fra e 3 (10 kDa) and 57% to High Molecular Weight allergens (HMW, >30 kDa). Individual analysis of 2D immunoblots showed several IgE‐binding protein areas among which three were more often recognized: (i) Fra e 1 comprising, at least, 15 isoforms, (ii) a series of acidic spots (45 kDa), and (iii) Fra e 2, the ash profilin. HMW allergens could be resolved in four areas; two unidentified, one homologous to β‐galactosidase and the other to sugar transport proteins. A malate deshydrogenase and calmodulin were shown to be IgE‐binding proteins and 10 non‐IgE reactive proteins were identified.

Conclusions:  No direct correlation was evidenced between IgE profile and the degree of sensitization even though 2 spectrotypes could be distinguished. Our data contribute to a better delineation of ash pollen allergens and patterns of sensitization.
Female nutritional status determines the magnitude and sign of responses to a male ejaculate signal in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: FRICKE C. , BRETMAN A. , CHAPMAN T.
Published: November 2009

Ejaculate chemicals transferred from males to females during mating cause significant changes in female behaviour and physiology, but the causes of phenotypic variation in these responses is little understood. We tested here the effect of adult female nutrition on the response of female Drosophila melanogaster to a specific ejaculate component, the sex peptide (SP), which is of interest because of its effects on female egg laying, sexual receptivity, feeding rate, immune responses and potential role in mediating sexual conflict. We exposed adult females to five different diets and kept them continuously with males that did or did not transfer SP. Diet altered the presence, magnitude and sign of the effects of SP on different phenotypic traits (egg laying, receptivity and lifespan) and different traits responded in different ways. This showed that the set of responses to mating can be uncoupled and can vary independently in different environments. Importantly, diet also significantly affected whether exposure to SP transferring males was beneficial or costly to females, with beneficial effects occurring more often than expected. Hence, the food environment can also shape significantly the strength and direction of selection on mating responses.
Loudness of birdsong is related to the body size, syntax and phonology of passerine species
Authors: CARDOSO G. C.
Published: November 2009

Songs of passerines are generally complex, long‐range acoustic signals, and are highly diverse across species. This diversity must nevertheless be shaped by the capabilities of the avian vocal physiology. For example, within species, loudness has been shown to trade‐off with aspects of song complexity. Here, I ask if such trade‐offs with loudness influenced the evolutionary diversification of song among passerines. Comparing perceived song loudness across > 140 European and North American species showed that loudness is positively related to body size and to singing with simple trilled syntax, and negatively related to aspects of syllable complexity. Syntax and syllable phonology together explained more variation than body size did, indicating that the acoustic design of songs is an important factor determining loudness. These results show for the first time that loudness covaries with, and possibly limits, song complexity across species, suggesting that a trade‐off with loudness shaped the evolutionary diversification of passerine song.
Performance evaluation of 70 hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg) assays from around the world by a geographically diverse panel with an array of HBV genotypes and HBsAg subtypes
Authors: Scheiblauer H. , El‐Nageh M. , Diaz S. , Nick S. , Zeichhardt H. , Grunert H.‐P. , Prince A.
Published: November 2009

Background and Objectives This study was conducted by the International Consortium for Blood Safety (ICBS) to identify high‐quality test kits for detection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg) for the benefit of developing countries.

Materials and Methods The 70 HBsAg test kits from around the world were evaluated comparatively for their clinical sensitivity, analytical sensitivity, sensitivity to HBV genotypes and HBsAg subtypes, and specificity using 394 (146 clinical, 48 analytical and 200 negative) ICBS Master Panel members of diverse geographical origin comprising the major HBV genotypes A‐F and the HBsAg subtypesadw2,4,adrandayw1‐4.

Results Seventeen HBsAg enzyme immunoassay (EIA) kits had high analytical sensitivity <0·13 IU/ml, showed 100% diagnostic sensitivity, and were even sensitive for the various HBV variants tested. An additional six test kits had high sensitivity (<0·13 IU/ml) but missed HBsAg mutants and/or showed reduced sensitivity to certain HBV genotypes. Twenty HBsAg EIA kits were in the sensitivity range of 0·13–1 IU/ml. The other eight EIAs and the 19 rapid assays had analytical sensitivities of 1 to >4 IU/ml. These assays were falsely negative for 1–4 clinical samples and 17 of these test kits showed genotype dependent sensitivity reduction. Analytical sensitivities for HBsAg of >1 IU/ml significantly reduce the length of the HBsAg positive period which renders them less reliable for detecting HBsAg in asymptomatic HBV infections. Reduced sensitivity for HBsAg with genetic diversity of HBV occurred with genotypes/subtypes D/ayw3, E/ayw4, F/adw4and by S gene mutants. Specificity of the HBsAg assays was ≥99·5% in 57 test kits and 96·4–99·0% in the remaining test kits.

Conclusion Diagnostic efficacy of the evaluated HBsAg test kits differed substantially. Laboratories should therefore be aware of the analytical sensitivity for HBsAg and check for the relevant HBV variants circulating in the relevant population.
Influence of host plant odours on invasion of the rice leaf bug Trigonotylus caelestialium into paddy fields
Authors: Fujii Tatsuya , Hori Masatoshi , Matsuda Kazuhiro
Published: November 2009

The host‐odour preferences of the rice leaf bug Trigonotylus caelestialium between the rice plant Oryza sativa L. and four species of graminaceous weeds, Poa annua, Alopecurus aequalis, Digitaria ciliaris and Eleusine indica, were investigated with an olfactometer aiming to clarify the influence of these odours on invasion of the bug to paddy fields at the flowering stage of rice.

Both female and male adults significantly preferred the graminaceous weed A. aequalis in the flowering stage to rice in the fifth‐leaf stage. The bugs also significantly preferred flowering P. annua and A. aequalis to rice in the panicle‐formation stage. However, the bugs showed no preferences between rice in the flowering and grain‐filling stages and the flowering graminaceous weeds P. annua, D. ciliaris and E. indica.

The preference of the rice leaf bug for the flowering graminaceous weeds before rice flowering coincides with the fact that these bugs mainly live on these weeds before rice flowering. It is considered that the bug's similar preference for flowering rice panicles as the flowering graminaceous weeds causes the intense invasion of the bug into paddy fields at this rice developmental stage.
The presence of the glycolysis operon in SAR11 genomes is positively correlated with ocean productivity
Authors: Schwalbach M. S. , Tripp H. J. , Steindler L. , Smith D. P. , Giovannoni S. J.
Published: November 2009

Bacteria in the SAR11 clade are highly abundant in marine surface waters, but currently little is known about the carbon compounds that support these large heterotrophic populations. To better understand the carbon requirements of these organisms, we conducted a multiphasic exploration of carbohydrate utilization among SAR11 isolates from the Northeast Pacific Ocean and the Sargasso Sea. A comparison of three SAR11 genomes showed they all lacked a recognizable PTS system, the oxidative portion of the pentose phosphate shunt (zwf‐, pgl‐), genes for the Embden–Meyerhoff–Parnas (pfk‐, pyk‐) and Entner–Doudoroff (eda‐) pathways of glycolysis. Strain HTCC7211, isolated from an ocean gyre, was missing other glycolysis genes as well. Growth assays, radioisotopes, metagenomics and microarrays were used to test the hypothesis that these isolates might be limited in their abilities to transport and oxidize exogenous carbohydrates. Galactose, fucose, rhamnose, arabinose, ribose and mannose could not serve as carbon sources for the isolates tested. However, differences in glucose utilization were detected between coastal and ocean gyre isolates, with the coastal isolates capable of transporting, incorporating and oxidizing glucose while the open ocean isolate could not. Subsequent microarray analysis of a coastal isolate suggested that an operon encoding a variant of the Entner–Doudoroff pathway is likely responsible for the observed differences in glucose utilization. Metagenomic analysis indicated this operon is more commonly found in coastal environments and is positively correlated with chlorophyll a concentrations. Our results indicated that glycolysis is a variable metabolic property of SAR11 metabolism and suggest that glycolytic SAR11 are more common in productive marine environments.
Beyond antibiotic resistance: integrating conjugative elements of the SXT/R391 family that encode novel diguanylate cyclases participate to c‐di‐GMP signalling in Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Bordeleau Eric , Brouillette Eric , Robichaud Nathaniel , Burrus Vincent
Published: November 2009

In Vibrio cholerae, the second messenger bis‐(3′−5′)‐cyclic dimeric guanosine monophosphate (c‐di‐GMP) increases exopolysaccharides production and biofilm formation and decreases virulence and motility. As such, c‐di‐GMP is considered an important player in the transition from the host to persistence in the environment. c‐di‐GMP level is regulated through a complex network of more than 60 chromosomal genes encoding predicted diguanylate cyclases (DGCs) and phosphodiesterases. Herein we report the characterization of two additional DGCs, DgcK and DgcL, encoded by integrating conjugative elements (ICEs) belonging to the SXT/R391 family. SXT/R391 ICEs are self‐transmissible mobile elements that are widespread among vibrios and several species of enterobacteria. We found that deletion of dgcL increases the motility of V. cholerae, that overexpression of DgcK or DgcL modulates gene expression, biofilm formation and bacterial motility, and that a single amino acid change in the active site of either enzyme abolishes these phenotypes. We also show that DgcK and DgcL are able to synthesize c‐di‐GMP in vitro from GTP. DgcK was found to co‐purify with non‐covalently bound flavin mononucleotide (FMN). DgcL's enzymatic activity was augmented upon phosphorylation of its phosphorylatable response‐regulator domain suggesting that DgcL is part of a two‐component signal transduction system. Interestingly, we found orthologues of dgcK and dgcL in several SXT/R391 ICEs from two species of Vibrio originating from Asia, Africa and Central America. We propose that besides conferring usual antibiotic resistances, dgcKL‐bearing SXT/R391 ICEs could enhance the survival of vibrios in aquatic environments by increasing c‐di‐GMP level.
A qualitative evaluation of patients’ experiences of an enhanced recovery programme for colorectal cancer
Authors: Blazeby J. M. , Soulsby M. , Winstone K. , King P. M. , Bulley S. , Kennedy R. H.
Published: November 2009

Aim  We explored the patients’ views and experiences of surgery for colorectal cancer within an enhanced recovery programme (ERP).

Method  Semi‐structured home interviews were performed within 6 weeks of hospital discharge with participants of a randomized trial comparing laparoscopically assisted surgery with open surgery for colorectal cancer within an ERP. Interviews were tape‐recorded, transcribed and analysed using qualitative techniques of constant comparison based upon grounded theory.

Results  Interviewees (n = 22) had similar baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes to participants in the full trial. Many participants were pleased to be discharged quickly and they considered that being in their own home‐improved recovery because it allowed them to choose how and when to undertake daily activities rather than following the hospital routine. Some participants (n = 9) were less satisfied with the process, and the reasons for this were related to complications requiring readmission or needing to contact a health professional for information after discharge.

Conclusion  Although many participants reported benefits from an ERP, the study highlighted areas for improvement. In particular participants reported the need for better access to information and specialist advice in the early days after hospital discharge.
Defining pathological variables to predict biochemical failure in patients with positive surgical margins at radical prostatectomy: implications for adjuvant radiotherapy
Authors: Resnick Matthew J. , Canter Daniel J. , Guzzo Thomas J. , Magerfleisch Laurie , Tomaszewski John E. , Brucker Benjamin M. , Bergey Meredith R. , Sonnad Seema S. , Wein Alan J. , Malkowicz S. Bruce
Published: November 2009

Study Type – Prognosis (individual cohort series) Level of Evidence 2b

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the utility of estimated tumour volume, number of positive surgical margins (PSMs), and margin location for predicting biochemical failure in patients with PSM, in an attempt to better risk‐stratify the heterogeneous group of patients at high risk of biochemical failure after radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We reviewed our database of 2410 patients who had RP, and isolated 423 with PSMs who had a prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) nadir at undetectable levels. Kaplan‐Meier curves were used for univariate survival analysis, with the log‐rank test used to examine differences between survival curves. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to assess the independent main effect of estimated tumour volume, number of PSMs and margin location on biochemical‐free survival.

RESULTS

Increasing estimated tumour volume was directly associated with increasing risk of biochemical failure in patients with PSMs (P = 0.041). Patients with more than one PSM were at greater risk of biochemical failure than those with one PSM (P = 0.001). Margin location had no effect on biochemical‐free survival in patients with PSMs. When incorporated into a multivariate Cox regression model including age, preoperative PSA level and pathological Gleason score, estimated tumour volume and number of PSMs remained independent predictors of biochemical recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Coupled with other variables before and after RP, both estimated tumour volume and number of PSMs might serve to further discriminate those patients most likely to benefit from immediate adjuvant radiotherapy after RP.
The adjunctive use of power Doppler imaging in the preoperative assessment of prostate cancer
Authors: Eisenberg Michael L. , Cowan Janet E. , Carroll Peter R. , Shinohara Katsuto
Published: November 2009

Study Type – Diagnostic (exploratory cohort) Level of Evidence 2b

OBJECTIVE

To determine if the adjunctive use of power Doppler imaging (PDI) could provide prognostic utility in the treatment of prostate cancer, as an accurate prediction of the clinical behaviour of prostate cancer is important to determine appropriate treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Most centres rely on a digital rectal examination or transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) to assess the clinical stage of patients. In 2002, we began using a standardized form to evaluate TRUS findings and PDI findings. We compared preoperative clinical findings with those from pathological analysis of 620 radical prostatectomy specimens from 2002 to 2007.

RESULTS

The mean (sd) patient age was 58 (6.6) years with a mean prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level of 7.0 (4.5) ng/mL. Of the 620 specimens 157 (25.3%) had evidence of extracapsular extension on pathological evaluation; 443 (71.5%) men had a hypervascular lesion seen on TRUS, while 177 (28.5%) patients had none. There was no difference in preoperative PSA level, grade or stage of tumour. Furthermore, rates of biochemical recurrence or secondary treatment did not differ based on PDI findings. As a tool to help locate prostate tumours, PDI improved the specificity of TRUS but did not improve the overall accuracy or sensitivity.

CONCLUSION

PDI provides little prognostic utility to assess risk in prostate cancer. However, PDI might improve the specificity of TRUS in identifying prostate tumours and could have a role in image guidance for focal therapy of prostate cancer.
The Boari bladder flap: an effective continent stoma for the high‐compliance neurogenic bladder
Authors: Baumgart Egbert , Stoffel John T.
Published: November 2009

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To determine if a continent urinary stoma can be created effectively using a Boari bladder flap (BBF) technique.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Selected patients (15, eight women and seven men) with a neurogenic bladder and a bladder compliance of >20 mL/cmH2O had a procedure to create a BBF continent urinary stoma. The technique consisted of tubularising a trapezoidal, full‐thickness detrusor flap 10 cm long, 5–6 cm wide at the base and 2 cm at the tip, over a 12 F catheter, and plication of detrusor muscle around the stomal base. Outcomes after surgery were assessed by reviewing stomal continence, stomal patency, and stability of the upper urinary tract.

RESULTS

Ten BBF procedures were performed using native detrusor muscle, four with enterocystoplasty tissue and one in a defunctionalized bladder. Over a mean follow‐up of 13 months, 11 patients had functioning stomas and 10 of these reported complete stomal continence. The mean change in serum creatinine level from the preoperative baseline for all patients was 0.1 mg/dL. The odds ratio for procedural failure, defined as a stoma unusable for self‐catheterization, was 7.5 (P = 0.04) when the BBF was created from augmented or defunctionalized bladder tissue, compared to native high‐compliance detrusor.

CONCLUSION

A BBF can be used to create a viable, functional stoma in the high‐compliance neurogenic bladder, although the rate of stomal complications is high when the BBF is created from enterocystoplasty tissue.
Urodynamic evaluation of fesoterodine metabolite, doxazosin and their combination in a rat model of partial urethral obstruction
Authors: Füllhase Claudius , Soler Roberto , Gratzke Christian , Brodsky Marina , Christ George J. , Andersson Karl‐Erik
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the urodynamic effects of fesoterodine, a new antimuscarinic agent, alone and combined with doxazosin, in a rat model of partial urethral obstruction (PUO), as 35–83% of men with bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome, and as the combination of α1‐adrenoceptor‐ and muscarinic‐receptor antagonists has been proposed to be beneficial for these patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty‐seven male Sprague‐Dawley rats (250 g) had surgically induced PUO; 2 weeks later they were evaluated by cystometry with no anaesthesia or any restraint. After a 1‐h period either 5‐hydroxymethyl tolterodine (5‐HMT, the active metabolite of fesoterodine, previously known as SPM 7605), doxazosin or a combination of both, was given intravenously (0.1 mg/kg body weight), and cystometry was continued for another 45 min. Fifteen healthy, age‐matched rats served as a control.

RESULTS

At 2 weeks after surgery the obstructed rats had an greater bladder weight, threshold pressure (TP) and micturition frequency (MF), and lower bladder capacity (BCap) and micturition volume (MV) than the controls. 5‐HMT did not cause urinary retention in obstructed rats, but decreased TP, maximum pressure (MP), spontaneous bladder activity (SA) and, paradoxically, increased MF. Doxazosin alone decreased TP, MP, MF and increased BCap and MV. 5‐HMT and doxazosin together did not depress the ability to empty the bladder, and showed decreased TP, MP and SA.

CONCLUSIONS

5‐HMT, alone and in combination, did not impair the voiding ability in obstructed rats. Doxazosin counteracted some of the ‘negative’ effects of 5‐HMT in this model (increase of MF) and did not attenuate the ‘positive’ effects (decrease of bladder SA). In this model, the combination of 5‐HMT and doxazosin appeared to be urodynamically safe and well tolerated.
Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for technically challenging tumours
Authors: Shikanov Sergey , Lifshitz David A. , Deklaj Tom , Katz Mark H. , Shalhav Arieh L.
Published: November 2009

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the outcomes of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) for endophytic tumours and those located near the hilum or the posterior upper‐pole, as these pose a technical challenge.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Technically challenging tumours were defined as endophytic, hilar, or at the posterior upper‐pole (group 1), and were compared to tumours in other locations (group 2). We collected data prospectively for all patients undergoing LPN at our institution, including baseline patient and tumour characteristics, surgical and postoperative outcomes. Two‐sided t‐test or rank‐sum test, and chi‐square or exact tests were used as appropriate for comparison of continuous and categorical variables, respectively, with P < 0.05 considered to indicate statistical significance.

RESULTS

There were 184 patients treated with LPN (42 in group 1 and 142 in group 2) between 2002 and 2008 by one surgeon (A.L.S.). Groups 1 and 2 were similar in terms of baseline variables (age, sex, body mass index, comorbidities, previous surgery, renal function and haematocrit) and in tumour size. LPN for challenging tumours resulted in a higher rate of collecting system repair (78% in group 1, 61% in group 2, P = 0.03). However, operative (surgery time, warm ischaemia time, blood loss, intraoperative complications) and postoperative outcomes (renal function, nadir haematocrit, complication rate, hospital stay and positive margin rate) were similar between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

With developing experience LPN can be safe for technically challenging renal tumours in well selected patients.
Robot‐assisted extraperitoneal laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: experience in a high‐volume laparoscopy reference centre
Authors: Ploussard Guillaume , Xylinas Evanguelos , Salomon Laurent , Vordos Dimitri , Hoznek Andras , Abbou Claude‐Clément , De La Taille Alexandre
Published: November 2009

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To describe our current procedure of robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP), and to assess the effect of the learning curve on perioperative data, early oncological outcomes and functional results, as RALP has increasingly become a treatment option for men with localized prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 206 consecutive men had a RALP between July 2001 and November 2008 for localized prostate cancer. Among the overall cohort, the 175 men operated on by the same surgeon were distributed into five groups according to the chronological order of the procedures. The mean follow‐up after RALP was 18.3 months. Patient demographics, surgical data and postoperative variables were collected into a prospective database. Data were compared by chronological groups into single‐surgeon cohort.

RESULTS

The median operative time and blood loss were 140 min and 350 mL, respectively. The complication rate was 8.3%. Cancers were pT3‐4 in 34.5%. The mean hospital stay and duration of bladder catheterization were 4.3 and 8.2 days, respectively. The rate of positive surgical margins (PSMs) was 17.2% in pT2 cancers. The recovery rate of continence was 98% at 12 months. Intraoperative time, blood loss and length of hospital stay were significantly improved after a short learning curve. The continence recovery, the rate and the length of PSM were also improved beyond the learning curve, but difference was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

RALP is a safe and reproducible procedure and offers a short learning curve for experienced laparoscopic surgeons. Beyond the learning curve, continued experience might also provide further improvements in terms of operative, pathological and functional results.
Fuzzy Monte Carlo Simulation and Risk Assessment in Construction
Authors: Sadeghi N. , Fayek A. R. , Pedrycz W.
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  Monte Carlo simulation has been used extensively for addressing probabilistic uncertainty in range estimating for construction projects. However, subjective and linguistically expressed information results in added non‐probabilistic uncertainty in construction management. Fuzzy logic has been used successfully for representing such uncertainties in construction projects. In practice, an approach that can handle both random and fuzzy uncertainties in a risk assessment model is necessary. This article discusses the deficiencies of the available methods and proposes a Fuzzy Monte Carlo Simulation (FMCS) framework for risk analysis of construction projects. In this framework, we construct a fuzzy cumulative distribution function as a novel way to represent uncertainty. To verify the feasibility of the FMCS framework and demonstrate its main features, the authors have developed a special purpose simulation template for cost range estimating. This template is employed to estimate the cost of a highway overpass project.
Optimal Performance‐Based Building Facility Management
Authors: Zhang Xueqing , Gao Hui
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  It is a great challenge to efficiently manage and operate the facilities of a set of buildings, which are of different structural types, ages, and locations and serve for different functions required by different users, over a long‐term planning horizon using limited resources to achieve multiple and often conflicting objectives. This article proposes an optimization system for the management of facilities in a set of buildings. First, a systemic approach is taken to standardize the various kinds of facilities in the set of buildings into a hierarchical structure, the condition states of these facilities into a state space, and the alternative management actions on different facilities in different condition states into an action set. Second, infinite‐ and finite‐time linear programming models are formulated to maximize the long‐term performance of the set of buildings subject to a number of technical and economic constraints. Third, life‐cycle management policies are established for both infinite‐ and finite‐time planning horizons. Finally, an illustrative example is provided to discuss the application and usefulness of the proposed optimization system for facility management in a set of buildings.
Visible skin condition and perception of human facial appearance
Authors: Samson N. , Fink B. , Matts P. J.
Published: November 2009

Synopsis

Evolutionary psychology suggests that certain human beauty standards have evolved to provide reliable cues of fertility and health. Hence, preferences for some physical characteristics of the face and body are thought to reflect adaptations for the promotion of mate choice. Studies that have investigated facial attractiveness have concentrated mainly on features such as symmetry, averageness and sex‐typical traits, which are developed under the influence of sex steroids. Few studies, however, have addressed the effect of human skin condition on perception of facial appearance in this context, and possible implications for sexual selection. There is now accumulating evidence that skin pigmentation and skin surface topography cues, particularly in women, have a significant influence on attractiveness judgements, as they seem primarily to signal aspects of age and health. This article (i) reviews briefly some of the main determinants of visible skin condition, (ii) presents recent evidence on its signalling value in face perception and (iii) suggests areas for future research with reference to an evolutionary psychology framework.
Lipopeptides in cosmetics
Authors: Kanlayavattanakul M. , Lourith N.
Published: November 2009

Synopsis

Lipopeptides are biosurfactants extensively used in cosmetics. The consumption of cosmetics containing lipopeptides is increasing as a result of the exceptional surface properties and diverse biological activities of lipopeptides which facilitate a vast number of applications not only in the pharmaceutics industry which includes cosmetics but also in the food industry. Cosmetics containing lipopeptides are available in various dosage forms according to their beneficial surface properties, which include anti‐wrinkle and moisturizing activities and cleansing cosmetics. The microbial production of lipopeptides particularly those with biological and surface activities applicable to cosmetics are summarized based on appropriate studies and patents up to the year 2008 to manage the information and sufficiently review the data.
Biophysic evaluation of polysaccharide gel from durian’s fruit hulls for skin moisturizer
Authors: Futrakul B. , Kanlayavattanakul M. , Krisdaphong P.
Published: November 2009

Synopsis

Durian or Dutio zibethinus Murr. (Bombacaceae) is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia particularly cultivated in Thailand as an economic plant. Once it is consumed, the fruit hulls are discarded as waste products. Polysaccharide gel (PG) from durian’s fruit hulls is obviously efficient for use in the preparations of food and pharmaceutical products. This research focused on biophysical assessment of PG durian’s fruit hulls for cosmetic formulation. The efficacy of facial skin capacitance and firmness increment of PG formulation were evaluated. Its application showed significant effect on skin capacitance after 28 and 56 days (P = 0.024 and P = 0.003) and significantly increased skin firmness after 56 days of treatment (P = 0.017) with non‐allergic effect as there were no positive patch tests.
Simple and rapid analytical method for the simultaneous determination of cetrimonium chloride and alkyl alcohols in hair conditioners
Authors: Terol A. , Gómez‐Mingot M. , Maestre S. E. , Prats S. , Luis Todolí J. , Paredes E.
Published: November 2009

Synopsis

A simple method for the simultaneous determination of a cationic surfactant (cetrimonium chloride) and four non‐ionic surfactants (1‐tetradecanol, 1‐hexadecanol, 1‐octadecanol and 1‐eicosanol) has been developed. Direct extraction of the analytes from the sample with methanol and a subsequent separation using reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography with refractive index detection are the steps followed in the procedure. The column used was a Luna C18 and the mobile phase consisted of a 0.1 M KClO4 solution prepared on a 95:5 mixture of methanol and water. This solution was adjusted to pH 2.8 with phosphoric acid. Recoveries close to 100% were obtained in spiked commercial hair conditioner samples for the surfactants assayed using this method. Limits of detection were 10.4, 16.7 and 22.9 mg kg−1 of cetrimonium chloride, 1‐hexadecanol, 1‐hexadecanol and 1‐1‐octadecanol respectively. The methodology was successfully applied to nine commercial hair conditioners of several types and different brands. All hair conditioners but one contained at least two of the surfactants included in this study.
Long‐term results after reconstruction of full thickness scalp defects with a dermal regeneration template
Authors: Faulhaber J , Felcht M , Teerling G , Klemke C‐D , Wagner C , Goerdt S , Koenen W
Published: November 2009

Objective  Large scalp defects in which the pericranium has to be resected can be reliably reconstructed using Integra®. In the present study, we retrospectively analysed the long‐term outcome of our patients.

Methods  Nineteen patients were included who had received Integra® dermal regeneration template for treatment of full thickness scalp defects after resection of various malignant tumours. All patients were followed up with a mean follow‐up time of 31 months (14–72).

Results  All transplants were on almost equal levels with the surrounding skin. Cosmetic results were acceptable and scars were stable. Nodal ultrasound status was negative in all patients. During the follow‐up period of up to 72 months, no local recurrences were observed. One patient with a leiomyosarcoma received radiotherapy after transplantation. In the irradiated area, multiple small regular‐shaped round ulcerations and later on partial necrosis of the transplant occurred when the patient developed renal failure 29 months after the initial operation. Five patients died of disease not related to the primary skin tumour. All other patients are alive and free of disease without any complications.

Conclusion  After reconstruction of full thickness scalp defects with Integra®, the cosmetic results are appealing and we observed no local recurrences during the follow‐up period.
Trafficking and signalling of gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone receptors: an automated imaging approach
Authors: Finch AR , Sedgley KR , Armstrong SP , Caunt CJ , McArdle CA
Published: November 2009

Gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) is a neuropeptide that mediates central control of reproduction by stimulating gonadotrophin secretion from the pituitary. It acts via 7 transmembrane region (7TM) receptors that lack C‐terminal tails, regions that for many 7TM receptors, are necessary for agonist‐induced phosphorylation and arrestin binding as well as arrestin‐dependent desensitization, internalization and signalling. Recent work has revealed that human GnRH receptors (GnRHR) are poorly expressed at the cell surface. This apparently reflects inefficient exit from the endoplasmic reticulum, which is thought to be increased by pharmacological chaperones (non‐peptide GnRHR antagonists that increase cell surface GnRHR expression) or reduced by point mutations that further impair GnRHR trafficking and thereby cause infertility. Here, we review recent work in this field, with emphasis on the use of semi‐automated imaging to interrogate compartmentalization and trafficking of these unique 7TM receptors.

This article is part of a themed section on Imaging in Pharmacology. To view the editorial for this themed section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2010.00685.x
Nitrite, NO and hypoxic vasodilation
Authors: Allen Jason D , Gow Andrew J
Published: November 2009

The ability to deliver oxygen and other nutrients to working tissues at a rate acutely matched to demand is the quintessential function of the cardiovascular system. Thus, an understanding of the biochemical mechanisms involved in hypoxic vasodilation remains a major goal in vascular biology. Nitric oxide, its metabolites, and oxidation status are recognized as playing important roles in this process. Previous work examining how nitrite can be converted to bioactive nitric oxide (NO) under hypoxic conditions has focused on the role of the red blood cell and haemoglobin. In a recent issue of theBritish Journal of Pharmacology, Pinderet al.demonstrate that plasma nitrite, in the absence of haemoglobin, is capable of increasing the maximal dilation of rabbit aortic rings under hypoxic conditions. Furthermore, they demonstrate that this relaxation can occur with or without the endothelium. This observation, even if it is only a small proportion of the relaxant activity of nitrite, highlights how NO metabolites may be involved in a variety of mechanisms of vessel control.
α1A/B‐Knockout mice explain the native α1D‐adrenoceptor's role in vasoconstriction and show that its location is independent of the other α1‐subtypes
Authors: Methven L , Simpson PC , McGrath JC
Published: November 2009

Background and purpose: Theoretically, three α1‐adrenoceptor subtypes can interact at the signalling level to alter vascular contraction or at the molecular level to alter each other's cellular location. The α1A/B‐adrenoceptor knockout mouse (α1A/B‐KO) was used to study the isolated α1D‐adrenoceptor to consider these potential interactions in native tissue.

Experimental approach: Pharmacological analysis of carotid and mesenteric arteries employed wire myography and fluorescent ligand binding (α1‐adrenoceptor ligand BODIPY FL‐prazosin, QAPB).

Key results: α1A/B‐KO carotid had clear α1D‐adrenoceptor‐induced contractions. In WT carotid α1D‐adrenoceptor dominated but all three α1‐subtypes participated. α1A/B‐KO mesenteric had α1D‐adrenoceptor responses with high sensitivity and small maximum, explaining how α1D‐adrenoceptor could determine agonist sensitivity in WT. In both arteries α1A/B‐KO fluorescence levels were reduced but pharmacologically more consistent with ‘pure’α1D‐adrenoceptors. α1D‐Adrenoceptor binding in α1A/B‐KO was observed on the cell surface and intracellularly and was present in a high proportion of smooth‐muscle cells in both strains, regardless of artery type.

Conclusions and implications: ‘Pure’α1D‐adrenoceptor pharmacology in α1A/B‐KO provides a quantitative standard. Functionally, the α1D‐ and α1A‐adrenoceptors produce additive responses and do not significantly compensate for each other. α1D‐Adrenoceptor contributes to sensitivity even in resistance arteries. In α1A/B‐KO, the loss of α1A‐ and α1B‐adrenoceptors is reflected by a general decrease in fluorescence, but similar binding distribution to WT indicates that the α1D‐adrenoceptor location in native smooth‐muscle cells is not influenced by other α1‐adrenoceptors. Equivalent levels of receptors did not correspond to equivalent responses. In conclusion, α1‐subtypes do not interact but provide independent alternative signals for vascular regulation.