bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organic cation transporter 3: Keeping the brake on extracellular serotonin in serotonin-transporter-deficient mice
Authors: Baganz Nicole L. , Horton Rebecca E. , Calderon Alfredo S. , Owens W. Anthony , Munn Jaclyn L. , Watts Lora T. , Koldzic-Zivanovic Nina , Jeske Nathaniel A. , Koek Wouter , Toney Glenn M. , Daws Lynette C.
Published: November 2008

Mood disorders cause much suffering and are the single greatest cause of lost productivity worldwide. Although multiple medications, along with behavioral therapies, have proven effective for some individuals, millions of people lack an effective therapeutic option. A common serotonin (5-HT) transporter (5-HTT/SERT,SLC6A4) polymorphism is believed to confer lower 5-HTT expression in vivo and elevates risk for multiple mood disorders including anxiety, alcoholism, and major depression. Importantly, this variant is also associated with reduced responsiveness to selective 5-HT reuptake inhibitor antidepressants. We hypothesized that a reduced antidepressant response in individuals with a constitutive reduction in 5-HTT expression could arise because of the compensatory expression of other genes that inactivate 5-HT in the brain. A functionally upregulated alternate transporter for 5-HT may prevent extracellular 5-HT from rising to levels sufficiently high enough to trigger the adaptive neurochemical events necessary for therapeutic benefit. Here we demonstrate that expression of the organic cation transporter type 3 (OCT3,SLC22A3), which also transports 5-HT, is upregulated in the brains of mice with constitutively reduced 5-HTT expression. Moreover, the OCT blocker decynium-22 diminishes 5-HT clearance and exerts antidepressant-like effects in these mice but not in WT animals. OCT3 may be an important transporter mediating serotonergic signaling when 5-HTT expression or function is compromised.
B-catenin deficiency, but not Myc deletion, suppresses the immediate phenotypes of APC loss in the liver
Authors: Reed Karen R. , Athineos Dimitris , Meniel Valerie S. , Wilkins Julie A. , Ridgway Rachel A. , Burke Zoé D. , Muncan Vanesa , Clarke Alan R. , Sansom Owen J.
Published: November 2008

Dysregulated Wnt signaling is seen in approximately 30% of hepatocellular carcinomas; thus, finding pathways downstream of the activation of Wnt signaling is key. Here, using cre-lox technology, we deleted the
Apc
gene in the adult mouse liver and observed a rapid increase in nuclear β-catenin and c-Myc, which is associated with an induction of proliferation that led to hepatomegaly within 4 days of gene deletion. To investigate the downstream pathways responsible for these phenotypes, we analyzed the impact of inactivating APC in the context of deficiency of the potentially key effectors β-catenin and c-Myc. β-catenin loss rescues both the proliferation and hepatomegaly phenotypes after APC loss. However, c-Myc deletion, which rescues the phenotypes of APC loss in the intestine, had no effect on the phenotypes of APC loss in the liver. The consequences of the deregulation of the Wnt pathway within the liver are therefore strikingly different from those observed within the intestine, with the vast majority of Wnt targets being β-catenin-dependent but c-Myc-independent in the liver.
Stepwise evolution of protein native structure with electrospray into the gas phase, 10
−12
to 10
2
s
Authors: Breuker Kathrin , McLafferty Fred W.
Published: November 2008

Mass spectrometry (MS) has been revolutionized by electrospray ionization (ESI), which is sufficiently “gentle” to introduce nonvolatile biomolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids (RNA or DNA) into the gas phase without breaking covalent bonds. Although in some cases noncovalent bonding can be maintained sufficiently for ESI/MS characterization of the solution structure of large protein complexes and native enzyme/substrate binding, the new gaseous environment can ultimately cause dramatic structural alterations. The temporal (picoseconds to minutes) evolution of native protein structure during and after transfer into the gas phase, as proposed here based on a variety of studies, can involve side-chain collapse, unfolding, and refolding into new, non-native structures. Control of individual experimental factors allows optimization for specific research objectives.
Mechanical induction of lateral root initiation in
Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Ditengou Franck Anicet , Teale William D. , Kochersperger Philip , Flittner Karl Andreas , Kneuper Irina , van der Graaff Eric , Nziengui Hugues , Pinosa Francesco , Li Xugang , Nitschke Roland , Laux Thomas , Palme Klaus
Published: November 2008

Lateral roots are initiated postembryonically in response to environmental cues, enabling plants to explore efficiently their underground environment. However, the mechanisms by which the environment determines the position of lateral root formation are unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that in
Arabidopsis thaliana
lateral root initiation can be induced mechanically by either gravitropic curvature or by the transient bending of a root by hand. The plant hormone auxin accumulates at the site of lateral root induction before a primordium starts to form. Here we describe a subcellular relocalization of PIN1, an auxin transport protein, in a single protoxylem cell in response to gravitropic curvature. This relocalization precedes auxin-dependent gene transcription at the site of a new primordium. Auxin-dependent nuclear signaling is necessary for lateral root formation;
arf7/19
double knock-out mutants normally form no lateral roots but do so upon bending when the root tip is removed. Signaling through
arf7/19
can therefore be bypassed by root bending. These data support a model in which a root-tip-derived signal acts on downstream signaling molecules that specify lateral root identity.
Dynamic patterns and ecological impacts of declining ocean pH in a high-resolution multi-year dataset
Authors: Wootton J. Timothy , Pfister Catherine A. , Forester James D.
Published: November 2008

Increasing global concentrations of atmospheric CO
2
are predicted to decrease ocean pH, with potentially severe impacts on marine food webs, but empirical data documenting ocean pH over time are limited. In a high-resolution dataset spanning 8 years, pH at a north-temperate coastal site declined with increasing atmospheric CO
2
levels and varied substantially in response to biological processes and physical conditions that fluctuate over multiple time scales. Applying a method to link environmental change to species dynamics via multispecies Markov chain models reveals strong links between
in situ
benthic species dynamics and variation in ocean pH, with calcareous species generally performing more poorly than noncalcareous species in years with low pH. The models project the long-term consequences of these dynamic changes, which predict substantial shifts in the species dominating the habitat as a consequence of both direct effects of reduced calcification and indirect effects arising from the web of species interactions. Our results indicate that pH decline is proceeding at a more rapid rate than previously predicted in some areas, and that this decline has ecological consequences for near shore benthic ecosystems.
Hybrid male sterility in rice controlled by interaction between divergent alleles of two adjacent genes
Authors: Long Yunming , Zhao Lifeng , Niu Baixiao , Su Jing , Wu Hao , Chen Yuanling , Zhang Qunyu , Guo Jingxin , Zhuang Chuxiong , Mei Mantong , Xia Jixing , Wang Lan , Wu Haibin , Liu Yao-Guang
Published: November 2008

Sterility is common in hybrids between divergent populations, such as the
indica
and
japonica
subspecies of Asian cultivated rice (
Oryza sativa
). Although multiple loci for plant hybrid sterility have been identified, it remains unknown how alleles of the loci interact at the molecular level. Here we show that a locus for
indica-japonica
hybrid male sterility,
Sa
, comprises two adjacent genes,
SaM
and
SaF
, encoding a small ubiquitin-like modifier E3 ligase-like protein and an F-box protein, respectively. Most
indica
cultivars contain a haplotype
SaM
+
SaF
+
, whereas all
japonica
cultivars have
SaM
−
SaF
−
that diverged by nucleotide variations in wild rice. Male semi-sterility in this heterozygous complex locus is caused by abortion of pollen carrying
SaM
−
. This allele-specific gamete elimination results from a selective interaction of SaF
+
with SaM
−
, a truncated protein, but not with SaM
+
because of the presence of an inhibitory domain, although
SaM
+
is required for this male sterility. Lack of any one of the three alleles in recombinant plants does not produce male sterility. We propose a two-gene/three-component interaction model for this hybrid male sterility system. The findings have implications for overcoming male sterility in inter-subspecific hybrid rice breeding.
HLA-A amino acid polymorphism and delayed kidney allograft function
Authors: Kamoun Malek , Holmes John H. , Israni Ajay K. , Kearns Jane D. , Teal Valerie , Yang Wei Peter , Rosas Sylvia E. , Joffe Marshall M. , Li Hongzhe , Feldman Harold I.
Published: November 2008

Delayed allograft function (DGF) is a common adverse event in postrenal transplantation. The etiology of DGF is thought to include both nonimmunologic (donor age, cold ischemia time, and recipient race) and immunologic factors. We examined the association of DGF with amino acid mismatches at 66 variable sites of the HLA-A molecule in a prospective cohort study of 697 renal transplant recipients of deceased donors. Using a multivariate logistic regression model adjusted for nonimmunologic risk factors, we show that combinations of a few amino acid mismatches at crucial sites of HLA-A molecules were associated with DGF. In Caucasian recipients, a mismatch at position 62, 95, or 163, all known to be functionally important within the antigen recognition site, was associated with an increased risk for DGF. Furthermore, a decreased risk for DGF was associated with a mismatch at HLA-A family-specific sites (149, 184, 193, or 246), indicating that evolutionary features of HLA-A polymorphism separating HLA-A families and lineages among donor-recipient pairs may correlate with the magnitude of alloreactivity influencing the development of DGF. These findings suggest that amino acid polymorphisms at functionally important positions at the antigen recognition site of the HLA-A molecule have a significant influence on DGF.
Accelerated tumor growth in mice deficient in DNAM-1 receptor
Authors: Iguchi-Manaka Akiko , Kai Hirayasu , Yamashita Yumi , Shibata Kai , Tahara-Hanaoka Satoko , Honda Shin-ichiro , Yasui Teruhito , Kikutani Hitoshi , Shibuya Kazuko , Shibuya Akira
Published: November 2008

Since the identification of ligands for human and mouse DNAM-1, emerging evidence has suggested that DNAM-1 plays an important role in the T cell– and natural killer (NK) cell–mediated recognition and lysis of tumor cells. However, it remains undetermined whether DNAM-1 is involved in tumor immune surveillance in vivo. We addressed this question by using DNAM-1–deficient mice. DNAM-1–deficient cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) and NK cells showed significantly less cytotoxic activity against DNAM-1 ligand-expressing tumors in vitro than wild-type (WT) cells. The methylcholanthrene (MCA)-induced fibrosarcoma cell line Meth A expressed the DNAM-1 ligand CD155, and DNAM-1–deficient mice showed increased tumor development and mortality after transplantation of Meth A cells. Moreover, the DNAM-1–deficient mice developed significantly more DNAM-1 ligand-expressing fibrosarcoma and papilloma cells in response to the chemical carcinogens MCA and 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA), respectively, than did WT mice. These results indicate that DNAM-1 plays an important role in immune surveillance of tumor development.
Can the Left Subclavian Artery be Safely Covered during Endovascular Repair of the Descending Thoracic Aorta?
Authors: Preventza Ourania , Wheatley Grayson H. , Williams James , Chaugle Hannan , Hughes Kakra , Ramaiah Venkatesh , Rodriguez-Lopez Julio , Olsen Dawn , Diethrich Edward B.
Published: November 2008

Objective

Routine preoperative carotid-subclavian bypass or transposition is frequently recommended in patients undergoing endovascular repair of the descending thoracic aorta (DTA). We reviewed our comprehensive thoracic endografting experience with regards to coverage of the left subclavian artery (LSA) to assess whether mandatory preoperative carotid-subclavian bypass or transposition is necessary.

Methods

Between February 2000 and November 2005, 255 patients were successfully treated with an endoluminal graft (ELG) to the DTA. Indications for intervention included atherosclerotic aneurysms (109/255, 42.7%), acute and chronic dissections (75/255, 29.4%), miscellaneous (41/255, 16.1%), and penetrating aortic ulcers (30/255, 11.8%). There were 151 males (151/255, 59.2%) and 104 females (104/255, 40.8%) with a mean age of 71 years (range, 23–91 years).

Results

The LSA was completely covered with an ELG in 71 patients (71/255, 27.8%) and partially covered in 47 patients (47/255, 18.4%). In patients who had complete coverage of the LSA, 30 patients (30/71, 42.3%) had acute or chronic Type B dissections, 26 patients (26/71, 36.6%) had aneurysms, 11 patients (11/71, 15.5%) had miscellaneous aortic pathologies, and 4 patients (4/71, 5.6%) had pseudoaneurysms associated with prior coarctation repair. Fifteen patients (15/255, 5.9%) underwent preoperative carotid-subclavian bypass or transposition and subsequently underwent complete coverage of the LSA with an ELG. One patient (1/56, 1.8%) with complete coverage of the LSA required elective postoperative carotid-subclavian bypass secondary to left arm claudication.

Conclusions

Routine preoperative carotid-subclavian bypass is not necessary, except in select patients with a patent left internal mammary artery to the left anterior descending artery bypass graft or contralateral vertebral artery disease.
Rationale for Minimally Invasive Pulmonary Vein Isolation and Partial Autonomic Denervation for Surgical Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Edgerton Zachary J. , Edgerton James R.
Published: November 2008

We seek to demonstrate the rationale of a minimally invasive surgical approach to the treatment of atrial fibrillation which combines pulmonary vein antral isolation with targeted partial autonomic denervation. The literature supporting the rationale of this approach is reviewed. There is evidence-based literature that supports both pulmonary vein electrical isolation and targeted partial autonomic denervation in the treatment of atrial fibrillation. These techniques can be combined in a minimally invasive surgical approach.
Safe and Complete Exclusion of the Left Atrial Appendage
Authors: Zapolanski Alex , Brizzio Mariano E. , Sperling Jason S. , Bronstein Eric H. , Shaw Richard E.
Published: November 2008

A standardized technique to permanently exclude the left atrial appendage during cardiac surgical procedures to potentially prevent stroke has never been established. We describe a simplified technique using a combination of endoloop occlusion with direct purse-string suturing supported with multiple teflon pledgets placed epicardially at the base of the appendage. The left atrial appendage is subsequently opened and decompressed to facilitate contraction and scarring, reducing or eliminating the possibility of recannalization. The technique was used successfully in 195 off-pump coronary bypass grafting patients with long-term echocardiographic follow-up.
Sequencing human–gibbon breakpoints of synteny reveals mosaic new insertions at rearrangement sites
Authors: Girirajan Santhosh , Chen Lin , Graves Tina , Marques-Bonet Tomas , Ventura Mario , Fronick Catrina , Fulton Lucinda , Rocchi Mariano , Fulton Robert S. , Wilson Richard K. , Mardis Elaine R. , Eichler Evan E.
Published: November 2008

The gibbon genome exhibits extensive karyotypic diversity with an increased rate of chromosomal rearrangements during evolution. In an effort to understand the mechanistic origin and implications of these rearrangement events, we sequenced 24 synteny breakpoint regions in the white-cheeked gibbon (Nomascus leucogenys, NLE) in the form of high-quality BAC insert sequences (4.2 Mbp). While there is a significant deficit of breakpoints in genes, we identified seven human gene structures involved in signaling pathways (DEPDC4,GNG10), phospholipid metabolism (ENPP5,PLSCR2), β-oxidation (ECH1), cellular structure and transport (HEATR4), and transcription (ZNF461), that have been disrupted in the NLE gibbon lineage. Notably, only three of these genes show the expected evolutionary signatures of pseudogenization. Sequence analysis of the breakpoints suggested both nonclassical nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) and replication-based mechanisms of rearrangement. A substantial number (11/24) of human–NLE gibbon breakpoints showed new insertions of gibbon-specific repeats and mosaic structures formed from disparate sequences including segmental duplications, LINE, SINE, and LTR elements. Analysis of these sites provides a model for a replication-dependent repair mechanism for double-strand breaks (DSBs) at rearrangement sites and insights into the structure and formation of primate segmental duplications at sites of genomic rearrangements during evolution.
Relationships between intestinal polyp formation and fatty acid levels in plasma, erythrocytes, and intestinal polyps in Min mice
Authors: Kuriki Kiyonori , Mutoh Michihiro , Tajima Kazuo , Wakabayashi Keiji , Tatematsu Masae
Published: November 2008

We have reported that a hyperlipidemic state is characteristic of Apc‐deficient Min mice with multiple intestinal polyps. In our earlier case‐control study, colorectal cancer risk showed positive relationships with erythrocyte membrane compositions of palmitic and oleic acids, but negative links with linoleic and arachidonic acids. To examine the roles of fatty acids in intestinal polyp formation, levels in plasma, erythrocytes, and intestinal polyps in Min mice were compared with those in wild‐type mice. A diet free of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids with antineoplastic effects was fed to all mice from 6 to 15 weeks of age. Fatty acid levels were measured using accelerated solvent extraction and gas–liquid chromatography. Min mice with a hyperlipidemic state and multiple intestinal polyps had elevated values for palmitic and oleic acids in plasma and erythrocytes (at least P < 0.05), and higher plasma level of linoleic acid (P < 0.05). Arachidonic acid was 24.5% lower in erythrocytes (P < 0.0005), but did not differ in plasma. In Min mice, moreover, oleic and arachidonic acids were 1.78 and 1.43 times higher, respectively, in intestinal polyps than in paired normal mucosa (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively), but linoleic acid was 31.9% lower (P < 0.001). The present study suggests that palmitic, oleic, and arachidonic acids play key roles in intestinal polyp formation, and demonstrates reduced erythrocyte arachidonic acid values of Min mice, in line with our previous findings for patients with sporadic colorectal cancers. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 2410–2416)
Clinical significance of 8q24/c‐MYC translocation in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Niitsu Nozomi , Okamoto Masataka , Miura Ikuo , Hirano Masami
Published: November 2008

Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) has heterogeneous clinical, histological, and molecular features. We evaluated the clinical characteristics and prognoses of patients with DLBCL carrying 8q24 translocations. A total of 1864 consecutive patients with non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma were treated in the Adult Lymphoma Treatment Study Group from 1998 to 2005. Of the 252 patients with DLBCL with abnormal karyotypes, 28 patients with DLBCL with the 8q24 translocation were identified. There were 14 men and 14 women, with a median age of 61 years. The 8q24 translocation was observed significantly more frequently among patients with poor performance status, among patients with high lactate dehydrogenase level, and among patients with bone marrow involvement. The 5‐year overall survival was 43.9% among the patients with 8q24 translocation, and 67% among the patients with other chromosomal abnormalities. The 8q24 translocation group showed significantly poorer prognosis than the group with other translocations. In addition, patients with t(14;18) and 8q24 translocation showed significantly poorer prognosis than those with 8q24 translocation alone. It will be necessary to study whether more aggressive chemotherapy or rituximab combination chemotherapy is effective in 8q24 translocation cases. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 233–237)
Review article: gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease and psychological comorbidity
Authors: MIZYED I. , FASS S. S. , FASS R.
Published: November 2008

Background  A growing number of studies have shown the impact of psychological comorbidities on gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients’ symptom reports and healthcare‐seeking behaviour.

Aim  To review the reported relationship between GERD and psychological comorbidity.

Methods  Review of the literature on GERD and psychological comorbidity.

Results  Psychological comorbidity is common among GERD patients and appears to afflict all GERD phenotypes. Sexual and physical abuse is also common in GERD patients. Stress enhances perception of oesophageal acid exposure. Treatment for GERD, especially in those who are not responsive to antireflux treatment, may require further evaluation for psychological comorbidity.

Conclusions  Psychological comorbidity is very common in GERD patients and is likely to play an important role in response, or failure of response, to proton pump inhibitor treatment.
Significant psychological morbidity occurs in irritable bowel syndrome: a case‐control study using a pharmacy reimbursement database
Authors: CANAVAN J. B. , BENNETT K. , FEELY J. , O’MORÁIN C. A. , O’CONNOR H. J.
Published: November 2008

Background  Psychological problems are associated with IBS but the strength of this association is unclear.

Aim  To assess co‐prescribing of antispasmodic and CNS‐acting drugs through a nested case‐control study.

Methods  A national dispensing database identified patients who were first dispensed antispasmodic medicines for a continuous 3‐month period or more during 2006, using 2005 as a run‐in period. Each patient was matched with four control patients and excluded if they received drugs indicated for IBD.

Results  Four hundred and seven patients commenced antispasmodic drugs during 2006. These patients were matched with 1628 controls. In 2005, patients subsequently prescribed antispasmodics were 2–3 times more likely to receive CNS‐acting drugs than controls. In the year following commencement of IBS therapy, patients were 2–4 times more likely than controls to be prescribed CNS‐acting drugs including antidepressants (35.4% vs. 9.3%), anxiolytics (27.8% vs. 8.8%), antipsychotics (9.8% vs. 3.3%) and hypno‐sedatives (32.7% vs. 11.3%; P < 0.0001). The adjusted OR (95% CI) for antidepressant, anxiolytic, hypnosedative and antipsychotic prescribing in IBS patients were 3.81 (2.79–5.20), 2.84 (2.12–3.81), 2.62 (1.91–3.60) and 2.58 (1.80–3.66), respectively.

Conclusions  Patients prescribed ongoing therapy for presumed IBS are 2–4 times more likely to be prescribed CNS‐acting drugs than controls, providing evidence of psychological comorbidity in IBS.
p53 labeling index in assessing the efficacy of a sunscreen in protection against UV‐induced damage
Authors: Lens Marko , Bielfeldt S. , Bataille Veronique , Wilhelm K. P.
Published: November 2008

Background  Sunscreen efficacy is currently evaluated by the estimation of the sun protection factor (SPF). Our objective was to determine the role of the p53 labeling index in assessing the effectiveness of a sunscreen in the prevention of UV‐induced DNA damage.

Methods  A broad‐spectrum sunscreen (SPF15) was applied to two of four test areas on the backs of 20 volunteers. Two test areas (with and without prior sunscreen application) were then irradiated with two minimal erythemal doses (MEDs) of solar‐simulated UV radiation (290–400 nm). At 24 h, suction blisters were raised from all four test areas using a vacuum technique, and immunohistochemical staining for p53 was performed.

Results  In normal epidermis, nonirradiated without sunscreen, p53 was almost undetectable [0.5% positive cells per field (PC/F)]. In UV‐exposed skin without sunscreen, p53 expression was 10.4% PC/F, whereas, in skin treated with sunscreen before UV irradiation, p53 expression was 0.3% PC/F. The mean positive labeling indices (×103/µm) for UV‐exposed skin with and without sunscreen were 0.002 and 0.059, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusions  In vivo assessment of the p53 labeling index using the suction blister method can serve as a sensitive endpoint in the evaluation of the effectiveness of a sunscreen in the prevention of UV‐induced DNA damage.
Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and indirect immunofluorescence testing in a bullous pemphigoid and pemphigoid gestationis
Authors: Barnadas María A. , Rubiales Mª Victòria , González Mª José , Puig Luis , García Pilar , Baselga Eulàlia , Pujol Ramón , Alomar Agustín , Gelpí Carmen
Published: November 2008

Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is an excellent tool for detection of circulating antibodies against the NC16A portion of BP180 antigen. We compared the sensitivity and specificity of a commercially available BP180‐NC16a domain ELISA with that of an indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) testing in the evaluation of bullous pemphigoid (BP) and pemphigoid gestationis (PG), and analyzed the relationship between ELISA results and the presence of IgG deposition, in an epidermal or combined pattern, on direct immunofluorescence (DIF) testing of salt‐split skin. ELISA was performed on serum from 28 patients (24 BP, 4 PG) and 50 controls. IIF testing was performed on serum from 27 patients and 98 controls. For the group of 28 patients with BP or PG, ELISA had a sensitivity of 93% and specificity of 96% (P < 0.001), while sensitivity was 74% and specificity 96% (P < 0.001) for IIF testing. In these patients, ELISA has a higher sensitivity than IIF testing, but similar specificity. Evaluation of controls who had IgG deposition on the dermal side of salt‐split skin on DIF testing showed specificity for the ELISA of 100% (all four cases negative) and 80% for IIF testing (one of five positive). Positive ELISA correlated with a diagnosis of BP or PG only in patients who had IgG at the basement membrane zone (BMZ) by DIF testing. Overall, ELISA appears to have greater sensitivity and specificity for BP or PG than does IIF testing.
Solitary mastocytoma: tooth eruption as triggering factor
Authors: De Giorgi Vincenzo , Fabroni Caterina , Alfaioli Barbara , Massi Daniela , Maio Vincenza , Sestini Serena , Papi Federica , Gori Alessia , Lotti Torello
Published: November 2008

A 2‐month‐old white male infant presented with a slightly infiltrated, brownish‐erythematous plaque on the left arm a few days after birth (following normal physiologic pregnancy and parturition). His parents noted the development of a flaccid bulla on the site of the lesion after a fever and sought the aid of a specialist. The child presented no other general symptoms. At presentation, there was a blood serum‐filled flaccid bulla surrounded by seemingly healthy skin (Fig. 1). Rubbing of the skin surrounding the bulla produced a hive‐like reaction (Darier's sign). With the suspicion of a cutaneous mastocytoma, an incisional cutaneous punch biopsy was obtained (4 mm in diameter).

A blood serum‐filled flaccid bulla surrounded by seemingly healthy skin on the left arm of a 2‐month‐old white male infant

image

Histopathologic examination showed a monomorphous and dense proliferation of mast cells within the superficial and deep dermis. Neoplastic cells displayed moderately abundant, oval‐ or polygonal‐shaped cytoplasm and round to oval nuclei (Fig. 2). The nuclei were characterized by clumped chromatin and indistinct or inapparent nucleoli. The cytoplasm was filled with small, faintly visible, eosinophilic or amphiphilic granules which stained metachromatically with Giemsa stain (Fig. 3). Scattered eosinophils were observed throughout the lesion. A final diagnosis of nodular mastocytoma was made.

Hematoxylin and eosin stain showing a dermal monomorphous proliferation of cells characterized by moderately abundant, oval‐ or polygonal‐shaped cytoplasm and round to oval nuclei (original magnification, ×20)

image

Giemsa stain showing metachromatic small granules within the cell cytoplasm (original magnification, ×20)

image

Having followed the lesion's evolution for 3 years, we have observed that it has been affected periodically by blistering, together with sudden episodes of flushing lasting 15–20 min, in the presence of triggering factors such as fevers or vaccinations.

The most recent episodes occurred between the age of 15 and 24 months, and were associated with the eruption of deciduous teeth. Over the past few months, with the patient now approximately 3 years of age, the lesion has grown progressively lighter and is beginning to disappear (Fig. 4).

After the age of 2 years, the mastocytoma became progressively lighter and smaller

image
Primary cutaneous actinomycosis
Authors: Patil Deena , Siddaramappa B. , Manjunathswamy B. S , Pandit A. M. , Dastikop Shilpa , Fernandes Carol , Kutre Sameer , Angolkar Mubashir
Published: November 2008

Actinomycosis is a chronic, progressive, suppurative infection, prevalent over the neck, thorax or abdomen. As it rarely occurs with few clinical symptoms, its diagnosis requires a high index of clinical suspicion. We report a case of primary cutaneous actinomycosis affecting the back. The patient was treated with benzyl penicillin and sulfonamides and showed no recurrence at 1 year follow‐up.
The wrinkles soothing effect on the middle and lower face by intradermal injection of botulinum toxin type A
Authors: Chang Shao‐Ping , Tsai Hsiou‐Hsin , Chen Wei‐Yu , Lee Woan‐Ruoh , Chen Ping‐Ling , Tsai Tsung‐Hsien
Published: November 2008

Background  Botulinum toxin type A (BTA) has been used on facial expressive muscles to reduce wrinkles. We assumed that intradermal injection with BTA on the middle and lower face can produce face‐lifting and wrinkles‐soothing effect by promoting collagen synthesis.

Methods  Nine volunteers were included to undergo intradermal injections of a total dose of 20~25 U BTA into one‐half of the face, and normal saline into the other half as control. Clinical photographs were taken every 4 weeks for 16 weeks, and evaluated by a doctor blinded to the assignments. Patients graded the results of wrinkles elimination on each follow‐up. Skin biopsies were taken before the treatment and 8 weeks after the injection. The specimens were assessed by a pathologist using hematoxylin and eosin stain, elastin stain, Masson trichrome stain and immunohistochemical stain with type I procollagen.

Results  By photographic documentation, there was no significant face‐lifting effect. However, there was statistical significance in wrinkles reduction on the BTA sides compared to pre‐treatment. Subjectively, six subjects noticed better wrinkles soothing effect on the BTA sides. This effect was noted as early as 4 weeks after injection, and lasted for a minimum 8 weeks. The histologic examination revealed slight neocollagen synthesis by Masson trichrome stain on both sides.

Conclusions  Based on this pilot study, the face‐lifting effect of intradermal injection with BTA was not conclusive. Interestingly, BTA showed moderate but significant wrinkles‐soothing effect without obvious side effects on the lower face.
Pilot study comparing patients’ valuation of health‐care services with Medicare’s relative value units
Authors: Kravet Steven J. , Jones Heather , Howell Eric E. , Wright Scott M.
Published: November 2008

Background and aims Physician reimbursement for services and thus income are largely determined by the Medicare Resource‐Based Relative Value Scale. Patients’ assessment of the value of physician services has never been considered in the calculation. This study sought to compare patients’ valuation of health‐care services to Medicare’s relative value unit (RVU) assessments and to discover patients’ perceptions about the relative differences in incomes across physician specialties.

Design Cross‐sectional survey.

Participants and setting Individuals in select outpatient waiting areas at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center.

Methods Data collection included the use of a visual analog ‘value scale’ wherein participants assigned value to 10 specific physician‐dependent health‐care services. Informants were also asked to estimate the annualized incomes of physicians in specialties related to the abovementioned services. Comparisons of (i) the ‘patient valuation RVUs’ with actual Medicare RVUs, and (ii) patients’ estimations of physician income with actual income were explored usingt‐tests.

Outcomes Of the 206 eligible individuals, 186 (90%) agreed to participate. Participants assigned a significantly higher mean value to 7 of the 10 services compared with Medicare RVUs (P < 0.001) and the range in values assigned by participants was much smaller than Medicare’s (a factor of 2 vs. 22). With the exception of primary care, respondents estimated that physicians earn significantly less than their actual income (allP < 0.001) and the differential across specialties was thought to be much smaller (estimate: $88 225, actual: $146 769).

Conclusion In this pilot study, patients’ estimations of the value health‐care services were markedly different from the Medicare RVU system. Mechanisms for incorporating patients’ valuation of services rendered by physicians may be warranted.
The psychosocial concerns and needs of women recently diagnosed with breast cancer: a qualitative study of patient, nurse and volunteer perspectives
Authors: Beatty Lisa , Oxlad Melissa , Koczwara Bogda , Wade Tracey D.
Published: November 2008

Objective  To qualitatively identify the concerns and needs of Australian women recently diagnosed with breast cancer.

Background  Breast cancer diagnosis can lead to impairment in multiple areas of psychosocial well‐being, including physical, social and emotional functioning. Research has therefore begun to focus on identifying and addressing survivors’ concerns and needs, with most research examining the time of treatment completion. However diagnosis and treatment are also key times of psychological need, and less is known about the psychosocial concerns and needs at these times.

Research design  Seven focus group interviews were conducted examining three categories of participants: (i) patients diagnosed with early‐stage breast cancer within the past 12 months, (ii) oncology nurses, and (iii) volunteers who work with cancer patients. Sampling was discontinued when informational redundancy was achieved.

Setting and participants  Thirty‐four participants took part in one of seven focus group meetings held in a hospital patient resource room.

Results  A wide variety of psychosocial concerns and needs were discussed, and five specific areas of concern were identified: (i) coping with side‐effects; (ii) dealing with self‐concept change; (iii) stress and adjustment reactions; (iv) having to manage others’ unhelpful beliefs, expectations and emotions; and (v) issues with survival and growth. There was a large degree of consistency in the concerns and needs identified by the different group categories.

Conclusion  In general, the concerns and needs expressed were consistent with survivorship issues previously identified in the literature; however, several new insights were obtained. Clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
Accumulation of soluble inflammatory mediators between blood donation and pre‐storage leucocyte depletion
Authors: Chudziak D. , Sireis W. , Pfeiffer H.‐U. , Henschler R. , Seifried E. , Bönig H.
Published: November 2008

Background and Objectives   Leucocyte‐derived cytokines accumulate in stored whole blood. Pre‐storage leucocyte depletion has reduced cytokine levels and, consequently, febrile non‐haemolytic transfusion reactions. As leucocyte filtration and component separation can be performed until 24 h after donation, we hypothesized that within this time, inflammatory cytokines might accumulate.

Materials and Methods   Serial plasma samples were collected 4, 10 and 20 h after donation and cytokine concentrations were measured.

Results   Interleukin‐8 increased > 20‐fold and soluble CD40 ligand > sixfold during the observation time, less pronounced changes for several other mediators were also observed.

Conclusion   Leucocyte depletion within 10 h of blood donation will reduce the concentrations of pyrogenic mediators.
Pollination of chasmogamous flowers and the effects of light and emergence time on chasmogamy and cleistogamy in Monochoria vaginalis
Authors: IMAIZUMI TOSHIYUKI , WANG GUANG‐XI , TOMINAGA TOHRU
Published: November 2008

Monochoria vaginalis is one of the most serious weeds of rice fields in Asia. The species has both chasmogamous (CH) and cleistogamous (CL) flowers on individual plants. The objective of this study is to clarify the reproductive characteristics that affect the selfing rate of M. vaginalis. An emasculation experiment revealed that the CH flowers emasculated just after flower opening produced seeds. The seed production in the flowers emasculated just after flower opening was less than that of the flowers emasculated and hand‐pollinated with pollen from another plant. These results indicate that, although self‐pollination before anthesis occurs, cross‐pollination also can produce seeds. An experimental manipulation of light and the emergence time of the plants revealed that more than half of the flowers produced were CL flowers and the CH/CL ratio decreased with reduced light availability. The plants that emerged later produced as many CH flowers as those that emerged earlier. There was no significant difference between the CH and CL flowers in the seed number per fruit and the seed mass. These results suggest that M. vaginalis has reproductive characteristics that make the selfing rate high; however, outcrossing also can occur. Under favorable light intensity conditions, such as on the edges of paddy fields or in fallow fields, M. vaginalis will produce more CH flowers and will have a higher outcrossing rate than in shaded conditions.
Behavior of simetryn and thiobencarb in rice paddy lysimeters and the effect of excess water storage depth in controlling herbicide run‐off
Authors: PHONG THAI KHANH , WATANABE HIROZUMI , NISHIMURA TAKU , TOYODA KOKI , MOTOBAYASHI TAKASHI
Published: November 2008

Eight small‐scale lysimeters with different excess water storage depths (EWSDs) were used to investigate the behavior of two herbicides, simetryn and thiobencarb, under paddy conditions. The concentration of simetryn dissipated similarly in all the lysimeters, while the thiobencarb concentration varied significantly because thiobencarb can adsorb onto the dissolved organic matter in a manure slurry, which was applied to six of the lysimeters. The herbicide losses (the percentage of the applied mass) from the lysimeters were reversely proportional with the EWSD. The correlation was stronger for simetryn than for thiobencarb. An appropriate EWSD is required to effectively prevent herbicide run‐off from the paddy field, especially when a rainfall event occurs soon after herbicide application.
Dynamics of the functional groups in the weed flora of dryland and irrigated agroecosystems in the Gangetic plains of India
Authors: SINGH ANAMIKA , SHARMA GYAN P. , RAGHUBANSHI AKHILESH S.
Published: November 2008

The relative abundance of the weed functional types in dryland and irrigated rice in the Kharif (summer) crop field and dryland lentil and wheat in the irrigated Rabi (winter) crop field was studied at the agricultural farm of Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India. A total of 22 species, belonging to 17 families, was recorded in the dryland and irrigated rice ecosystems and 18 species, belonging to eight families, were recorded in the dryland lentil and irrigated wheat ecosystems. The Importance Value Index (IVI) of the hemicryptophytes showed an increasing trend with the crop growth period in the case of the dryland rice, whereas in the irrigated rice plots, a reduction in the IVI of the hemicryptophytes, with a related increase in the importance of the therophytes, was observed as the crop attained maturity. Also, the trend of a decreased IVI was observed for the geophytes in the fertilized dryland rice plots. The principal components analysis (PCA) ordination showed the uniqueness of the crop plot in terms of weed species composition. The PCA analysis of the functional types on the basis of the crop plots indicated that the hemicryptophyte and therophyte weed species composition was heavily altered at the initial and final sampling, although the weed flora was dominated by the therophytes and geophytes. These results suggest the prioritization of hierarchical temporal management options for the functional weed types in different crop plots and that this approach warrants further investigation.
Alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) in New South Wales, Australia: A status report
Authors: BURGIN SHELLEY , NORRIS ANDREW
Published: November 2008

Alligator weed, Alternanthera philoxeroides (Martius) Grisebach, of the family Amaranthaceae, has become a weed in many countries outside of its natural range in South America. In Australia, it is classified as a weed of national significance because of its potential to devastate agricultural and natural ecosystems. In New South Wales, the weed management officers of local government areas are charged with its control. In 2007, we surveyed this group to determine the status of alligator weed in each jurisdiction and to determine the methods and resources used in its control. Half of the local government area officers who responded reported its presence. The age, number, and size of the infestations indicated that the weed continues to spread into new areas, and is well established in others, at least within local government areas. The resources provided for the weed's management across the local government areas was less than had been expended annually on its removal from a single swamp. The respondents acknowledged that the current approach was inadequate and the need for research into its management was identified. We conclude that, with current management, the weed will continue to spread and recommend that the community should be mobilized to identify new areas of infestation and appropriately train people (e.g. bush restoration consultants, Landcare groups) to remove the weed.
The importance of flow and pressure release in emergency jet ventilation devices
Authors: HAMAEKERS ANKIE , BORG PIETER , ENK DIETMAR
Published: November 2008

Background:  Several self‐assembled devices, consisting of a three‐way stopcock connected to a high pressure oxygen source, have been proposed for transtracheal jet ventilation in an emergency situation. As a three‐way stopcock acts as a ‘flow splitter’ it will, when connected to a continuous oxygen flow, never ensure total flow and pressure release through its side port. The aim of the present study was to measure the efficacy of flow and pressure release of three previously described self‐assembled jet devices and one commercially available tool.

Methods:  In a laboratory setting simulating an obstructed upper airway the generated pressure at the cannula tip (PACT) during the expiration phase was measured in three self‐assembled jet devices consisting of a three‐way stopcock with an inner diameter of 2 mm (device A), 2.5 mm (device B), and 3 mm (device C), respectively, and in the Oxygen Flow Modulator (OFM) at oxygen flows of 6, 9, 12, and 15 l·min−1.

Results:  The PACT of device A at on oxygen flow of 15 l·min−1 was 71.1 (±0.08) cm H2O. At a reduced flow of 9 l min−1 the PACT of device A was still 25.8 (±0.08) cm H2O. In device B and C the PACT was 35.6 (±0.04) and 17.6 (±0.04) cm H2O, respectively, at an oxygen flow of 15 l·min−1. In contrast, the PACT in the OFM (five side holes open) was 4.4 (±0.02) cm H2O at the same flow.

Conclusion:  In case of complete upper airway obstruction the OFM provides sufficient flow and pressure release, whereas the self‐assembled jet devices tested are inherently dangerous constructions.
Dysplastic kidney and not renal agenesis is the commonly associated anomaly in infants with seminal vesicle cyst
Authors: Schukfeh Nagoud , Kuebler Joachim F. , Schirg Eckart , Petersen Claus , Ure Benno M. , Glüer Sylvia
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the association of seminal vesicle cyst (SVC) and renal anomaly in young children correlates with previously reported cases of SVCs in adolescent and adult patients, as congenital SVCs, although rare, are frequently described in association with ipsilateral renal agenesis, mainly in adolescent and adult patients, whereas reports on SVCs in younger children are sparse.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We report on nine infants (median age 4 months) with congenital SVCs, all of them associated with ipsilateral dysplastic kidneys. All patients had ultrasonography of the renal system and voiding cysto‐urethrography. Magnetic resonance imaging was used in two patients.

RESULTS

The SVCs were found incidentally during ultrasonography for the renal anomaly. Three patients had dysplastic and six had multicystic dysplastic kidneys. In previous reported adult cases of SVCs the most common associated renal anomaly was agenesis of the ipsilateral kidney (25 of 44 cases), whereas only one case of dysplastic kidney was reported.

CONCLUSION

As the appearance of renal agenesis might result from a former congenital dysplastic kidney, our findings indicate that cases of ipsilateral renal agenesis in adult patients with congenital SVCs might represent former dysplastic or multicystic dysplastic kidney.
Urethral in situ biocompatibility of new drug‐eluting biodegradable stents: an experimental study in the rabbit
Authors: Kotsar Andres , Isotalo Taina , Uurto Ilkka , Mikkonen Joonas , Martikainen Paula , Talja Martti , Kellomäki Minna , Salenius Juha‐Pekka , Tammela Teuvo L.J.
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of drug‐eluting properties on the degradation process and the biocompatibility of biodegradable drug‐eluting urethral stents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Braided biodegradable 80 L/20D‐PLGA (copolymer of polylactide and polyglycolide) stents with drug‐eluting properties were used as the test material. The drugs analysed were indomethacin, dexamethasone and ciprofloxacine. 80 L/20D‐PLGA stents without a drug coating served as controls. In all, 16 male rabbits were used and divided into four groups. The stents were inserted under general anaesthesia into the posterior urethra. After 1 month, the rabbits were killed and the urethra removed for histological and optic microscopy analyses.

RESULTS

Control stents and the dexamethasone‐eluting stents degraded totally during the follow‐up period. Conversely, in both indomethacin‐ and ciprofloxacine‐eluting stent groups, the degradation process was significantly delayed and they induced an increase in epithelial hyperplasia. Histological analysis showed that all the stents induced eosinophilia, but there were no significant differences in the intensity of acute or chronic inflammatory reactions and fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

A drug‐eluting capacity can be added to biodegradable stents. The addition of a drug influences the biodegradation time of PLGA urethral stents. Further studies are needed, to find the proper concentrations and releasing profiles of the drugs to achieve the desired bioactivity and biocompatibility properties.