bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Weeds in the Spread of Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus by Thrips tabaci (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in Tobacco Crops
Authors: Chatzivassiliou E. K. , Peters D. , Katis N. I.
Published: September 2007

Oviposition of Thrips tabaci, larval development and their potential to acquire Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) from infected Amaranthus retroflexus, Datura stramonium, Lactuca serriola, Solanum nigrum and Sonchus oleraceus plants and the ability of the adults to transmit this virus to these weeds and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum cv. Basmas) were studied. When a T. tabaci female was given an oviposition period of 4 days, an average of 21 larvae were produced on leaves of D. stramonium, 17.5 on S. nigrum, 16.3 on L. serriola and 14.3 on S. oleraceus. Significantly higher numbers of larvae were found on tobacco (29.5), and lower numbers on A. retroflexus (1.9). In a choice test, when females were placed onto leaves of these weed species and tobacco in a Petri dish, D. stramonium was preferred over tobacco. Equal numbers of larvae emerged on leaves of tobacco, of L. serriola and of S. nigrum. Oviposition was lower on A. retroflexus and S. oleraceus in this test. After the transfer of newborn 24 h old larvae to leaf discs of tobacco or to one of the weeds 87, 84, 82, 71, 64 and 17% became pupa on tobacco, D. stramonium, L. serriola, S. nigrum, A. retroflexus or S. oleraceus respectively. After acquisition of virus by newborn‐24 h old larvae from L. serriola, D. stramonium, S. nigrum and A. retroflexus 69.5, 51.4, 32.6 and 22% of the adults became transmitters. No transmission could be recorded on S. oleraceus due to a high larval mortality. Males appeared to be more efficient transmitters than females. Tobacco was more susceptible to TSWV than petunia and the weed species, while among weeds, S. nigrum was the most and A. retroflexus the least susceptible species.
Pathotype Classification of Plasmodiophora brassicae and its Occurrence in Brassica napus in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Strelkov S. E. , Manolii V. P. , Cao T. , Xue S. , Hwang S. F.
Published: September 2007

A field survey for clubroot of crucifers, caused by Plasmodiophora brassicae, was conducted in the regions surrounding Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, in 2005. The presence of clubroot was confirmed in 41 of the 112 canola (Brassica napus) fields surveyed. These P. brassicae‐ infested fields were located in Sturgeon, Strathcona, Leduc and Wetaskiwin counties, as well as in a rural area of northeast Edmonton. Infected roots were also received from an infested field in Flagstaff County, southeast of Edmonton. Although there was a significant negative correlation between index of disease and soil pH, the occurrence of clubroot was not restricted to fields with acidic soils. Populations of the pathogen were selected from 10 fields and used in pathotype classification on the differential hosts of Williams, Somé et al. and the European Clubroot Differential (ECD) set. Kruskal–Wallis analysis indicated no significant differences in the virulence of the 10 populations tested, suggesting that they are relatively homogenous. If a disease index of 50% was regarded as the cut‐off between a resistant and a susceptible reaction, then all P. brassicae populations tested were classified as ECD ‐/15/12 on the hosts of the ECD set, or as pathotypes 3 or P2 on the differentials of Williams or Somé et al. respectively. However, it may be difficult to detect rare or infrequent pathotypes when field populations of the pathogen are used for characterization.
Monoclonal Antibody‐based TAS‐ELISA for Quantitative Detection of Mycosphaerella fijiensis Antigens
Authors: Otero A. J. , Sarracent J. , Hernández H. , Sánchez M. , Muirragui D. , Villamar M. , Moreta D. , Jiménez M. I. , Pérez L. , Maribona R. H.
Published: September 2007

Black Sigatoka caused by Mycosphaerella fijiensis Morelet is the most dangerous and devastating disease of banana around the world. Disease control is carried out by integrating cultural, genetic and chemical measures. Mycosphaerella musicola has been replaced by M. fijiensis wherever Black Sigatoka has been introduced in America and elsewhere, and remains as a significant problem at sites located at relatively high altitudes. To optimize fungicide applications for disease management a presymptomatic quantification of fungal proteins in leaves is desirable. In this study, we describe the generation of a mouse monoclonal antibody (Mab) reactive to a high‐molecular weight antigens from M. fijiensis mycelial single ascospore in vitro culture, but not reactive to mycelial antigens from M. musicola, M. musae and M. minima single ascospore cultures. A rabbit‐specific polyclonal antibody against the same M. fijiensis antigen, reactive also to fungal secreted proteins, was able to discriminate naturally M. fijiensis infected from healthy leaves as well as other concomitant fungi. The Mab was used as a capturing reagent and the polyclonal preparation as a second antibody for a triple antibody enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay able to quantify mycelial protein antigens in a range of 10–40 μg / ml and differentiate it from healthy banana leaf extracts. The aim of this study was the analytical setting up of a Mab‐based immunoassay for the quantification of mycelial and secreted proteins of M. fijiensis. It is intended for the further establishment and optimization of an asymptomatic leaf assay for an improved forecast and warning system applied to Black Sigatoka disease management.
Relationship between financial competence and cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: NIEKAWA NOBUYUKI , SAKURABA YUKIE , UTO HANAE , KUMAZAWA YOSHIKO , MATSUDA OSAMU
Published: September 2007

Abstract  The present study examined financial competence in patients with schizophrenia and the relationship between their financial competence and cognitive function. The subjects consisted of 25 patients with schizophrenia (10 inpatients and 15 outpatients) and 22 normal controls who were community‐dwelling people with no psychiatric disorders or cognitive deficit. To assess the subjects' cognitive function and financial competence, they completed the Japanese version of the Neurobehavioral Cognitive Status Examination (COGNISTAT), which has 10 subtests, and the Financial Competency Assessment Tool (FCAT), which has six subordinate domains of financial competence. Patients with schizophrenia performed significantly worse than the controls in all scores on the FCAT. The financial scores that were significantly different between the patients and the normal controls were significantly positively correlated with the scores on several COGNISTAT subtests (e.g. comprehension). These results suggest that patients with schizophrenia have problems with financial competence and that these problems may be accounted for by deficits in several cognitive functions.
Analysis of association of clinical correlates and 5‐HTTLPR polymorphism with suicidal behavior among Chinese methamphetamine abusers
Authors: CHEN CHIH‐KEN , LIN SHIH‐KU , HUANG MING‐CHYI , SU LIEN‐WEN , HSIAO CHENG‐CHENG , CHIANG YUAN‐LIN , REE SHAO‐CHUN , CHIANG SHU‐CHUAN , LIU HSING‐CHENG
Published: September 2007

Abstract  Substance use disorders are familial, and genetic factors explain a substantial degree of their familial aggregation. Methamphetamine (MAP) abusers are commonly noted as having psychosis, depression and suicidal behavior. The goals of the present study were (i) to investigate relations of clinical correlates, such as gender, drug use behavior, psychiatric comorbidity and psychiatry family history, with suicidal behavior among Chinese MAP abusers; and (ii) to investigate whether there is an association between a polymorphism in the promotor region of the serotonin transporter gene (5‐HTTLPR) and suicidal behavior among Chinese MAP abusers. A total of 439 MAP abusers from a hospital and detention center in Taipei were interviewed with the Diagnostic Interview for Genetic Study and the Family Interview for Genetic Study. The 5‐HTTLPR polymorphism was compared between 94 MAP abusers with suicide attempts and 294 MAP abusers without suicide attempts, for whom DNA data were available. The results of the present study indicate that among MAP abusers in Taiwan, suicide attempts were significantly related to female gender, history of MAP‐induced psychotic disorder, history of MAP‐induced depressive disorder, and family history of psychotic disorders. Among suicide attempters, the attempters with moderate to severe lethality used higher MAP doses than those with minimal to mild lethality. In the present sample the triallelic 5‐HTTLPR polymorphism (S, LG, LA) was not associated with MAP‐induced depressive disorder, MAP‐induced psychotic disorder or suicidal behavior, but studies with larger sample sizes are warranted before excluding the role of the 5‐HTTLPR polymorphisms in suicidal behavior among MAP abusers.
Reduced risk of physician‐diagnosed asthma among children dwelling in a farming environment
Authors: MIDODZI William K. , ROWE Brian H. , MAJAESIC Carina M. , SENTHILSELVAN Ambikaipakan
Published: September 2007

Background and objective:  Living in a farm environment has been reported to be associated with lower prevalence of asthma, based on the results of cross‐sectional studies. The objective of this longitudinal study was to determine whether living in a farm environment is associated with lower incidence of asthma among children.

Methods:  A total of 13 524 asthma‐free children aged 0–11 years were drawn from the Cycle 1 (1994/1995) of the Canadian National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth (NLSCY). Subjects were categorized as dwelling in rural farming, rural non‐farming and non‐rural environments. Incidence of physician‐diagnosed asthma was determined at Cycle 2 (1996/1997). Bootstrap logistic regression method was used to adjust for design effect in the NLSCY.

Results:  The 2‐year cumulative incidence of asthma was 2.3%, 5.3% and 5.7% among children living in farming, rural non‐farming and non‐rural environments, respectively. From the multivariate analysis with adjustment for important confounders, children from a farming environment had a reduced risk of asthma compared with children from rural non‐farming environment with odds ratios (OR) of 0.22 (95% CI: 0.07–0.74) and 0.39 (95% CI: 0.24–0.65) for children with and without parental history of asthma, respectively. Children living in a non‐rural environment with parental history of asthma had an increased risk of asthma incidence when compared with children living in rural non‐farming environment (OR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.56–4.05).

Conclusion:  This longitudinal study expands on observational study results which suggest a reduced risk of developing asthma associated with living in a farming environment.
Surgical results and prognosis of patients with primary bronchogenic carcinoma aged less than 36 years
Authors: TÜRÜT Hasan , TASTEPE Irfan , KAYA Sadi , SIRMALI Mehmet , GEZER Suat , OZ Gurhan , FINDIK Gokturk , CETIN Guven
Published: September 2007

Background and objective:  This study reports on the demographic features, clinico‐pathological results and prognoses of patients aged less than 36 years diagnosed with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods:  This is an observational study of patients with primary NSCLC who had a surgical procedure at a tertiary thoracic surgery centre in Turkey. Data collected were age, gender, history of smoking, symptoms, postoperative histopathological diagnosis, stage, surgical procedure and survival.

Results:  Of the 31 patients in the study, 27 were male (87%) and the median age was 32 years (10–35 years). Nineteen patients were smokers (61.2%). The most common presenting symptom was cough (n = 23, 67.7%). Histopathological diagnosis was squamous cell carcinoma (SCC, n = 17), adenocarcinoma (n = 12), lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma (n = 1) and undifferentiated carcinoma (n = 1). Staging of the 17 patients with SCC (58.8%) was stage I and II (n = 10, 58%), and stage III (n = 7, 41%). Staging of the 13 patients with adenocarcinoma was stage IV (n = 2, 16%) and stage III patients (n = 8, 66%). Follow‐up data were available on 22 patients (71%) and showed a median survival of 17.2 months. Two and 5‐year survival rates were 54.5% and 45.5%, respectively.

Conclusions:  SCC comprised a relatively high proportion of NSCLC in these younger patients. Aggressive multimodality treatment may achieve satisfactory 2‐ and 5‐year survival rates in young patients with NSCLC who usually present with advanced disease.
Autoantibody to alanyl‐tRNA synthetase in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: TAKAHASHI Toru , WADA Ikuo , OHTSUKA Yoshinori , MUNAKATA Mitsuru , HOMMA Yukihiko , KUROKI Yoshio
Published: September 2007

Background and objectives:  The pathogenesis of IPF is unknown and it is hypothesized that immunological responses are involved. The purpose of this study was to detect autoantibodies in IPF patients and to identify the relevant antigens.

Methods:  Sera from 37 healthy subjects and 22 IPF patients who had no clinical symptoms of collagen vascular disease were examined for immunostaining of A549 human type II cells and human lung tissue. Immunoprecipitation and proteome analysis were performed to identify the antigen.

Results:  Fifty per cent of the patient sera and none of the control sera exhibited positive staining. Sera from 10 of the 22 IPF patients showed positive immunohistochemistry and immunoprecipitated a 110‐kDa protein from the A549 cell lysate. Sera from only two of 41 patients with collagen vascular disease showed positive immunoreactivity. Proteome analysis using tandem mass spectrometry revealed that the protein was alanyl‐tRNA synthetase. Transfection of cDNA of this enzyme into CHO‐K1 cells conferred positive staining on these cells with the patients' IgG. The 135‐kDa fusion protein consisting of 108‐kDa enzyme protein and 27‐kDa YFP from the cell lysate of the transfected cells was immunoprecipitated by the patient IgG. In addition, sera from IPF patients significantly inhibited the enzyme activity of alanyl‐tRNA synthetase.

Conclusion:  A significant number of IPF patients possess circulating autoantibodies against alanyl‐tRNA synthetase, suggesting the involvement of an autoimmune background in the pathogenesis of IPF.
Efficacy of vitamin E in children with immunotolerant‐phase chronic hepatitis B infection
Authors: DIKICI BUNYAMIN , DAGLI ABDULLAH , UCMAK HASAN , BILICI MEKI , ECE AYDIN
Published: September 2007

Background: The purpose of the present paper was to investigate the efficacy of vitamin E in children with immunotolerant‐phase chronic hepatitis B virus (CHB) infection.

Methods: Fifty‐eight immunotolerant children were prospectively and randomly recruited into two groups. Group 1 (study group) included 30 patients who received vitamin E at a dose of 100 mg/day throughout 3 months; group 2 (control group) contained 28 patients who did not receive any medication. Comparison of serological, virologic, and biochemical response ratios were done at the end of the therapy and after 6 months of vitamin E discontinuation.

Results: Mean alanine transaminase (ALT) values in group 1 at the beginning of the therapy, 3 months after the therapy initiation and 6 months after discontinuation were 30.4 ± 7.3 IU/L, 31.3 ± 7.8 IU/L and 32.1 ± 8.5 IU/L, respectively. The mean hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐DNA load of group 1 at onset, and at the third and ninth months of the treatment were 3106 ± 718 pg/mL, 3530 ± 137 pg/mL and 3364 ± 1246 pg/mL, respectively. These changes in both ALT and HBV‐DNA values did not reach significant levels (P > 0.05). In group 2, mean ALT values at the beginning of therapy, and at the third and ninth months were 28.0 ± 1.8 IU/L, 34.6 ± 8.1 IU/L, and 34.1 ± 7.0 IU/L, respectively (P > 0.05), and mean viral load of HBV‐DNA was 4227 ± 1435 pg/mL, 3368 ± 2673 pg/mL, and 3018 ± 2814 pg/mL, respectively (P > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between group 1 and group 2 at the third and ninth months in the mean ALT values and viral load of HBV‐DNA (P > 0.05). Hepatitis B s antigen and hepatitis B e antigen clearance or hepatitis B s antibody and hepatitis B e antibody seroconversion were not observed in either group.

Conclusion: As a first study investigating the effect of vitamin E in children with immunotolerant CHB infection, no beneficial effect could be demonstrated. Different immunomodulator protocols should be considered for future investigations.
Bevacizumab inhibits corneal neovascularization in an alkali burn induced model of corneal angiogenesis
Authors: Hosseini Hamid , Nejabat Mahmood , Mehryar Morsal , Yazdchi Taher , Sedaghat Ahad , Noori Farajollah
Published: September 2007

Abstract

Background:  New and uncontrolled blood vessel development in the cornea is a pivotal process in the pathogenesis of several corneal diseases. These corneal diseases may finally cause blindness and managing them therapeutically is problematic. The data supporting a causal role for vascular endothelial growth factor in corneal neovascularization are extensive. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of subconjunctival bevacizumab (Avastin) on experimental corneal neovascularization in rabbits.

Methods:  Chemical cauterization of the cornea was performed by touching central cornea with a 5‐mm‐diameter NaOH‐soaked cotton applicator for 10 s in 20 eyes of 20 White New Zealand rabbits. The rabbits were then divided randomly into two equal groups. Bevacizumab (2.5 mg) was administered to 10 eyes (group 1) by a subconjunctival injection immediately after chemical cauterization of corneal surface. As a control, 10 eyes (group 2) received an injection of distilled water. Rabbits were examined daily for detection of the first signs of neovascularization. Three weeks later, the extent of corneal neovascularization was evaluated by direct examination and photograph analyses. Total corneal neovascularization area, degree of circumference involved and longest neovascular pedicle length were assessed.

Results:  Bevacizumab significantly decreased the total neovascularization area (P < 0.009), the circumference involved (P < 0.011) and the longest neovascular pedicle length (P < 0.023).

Conclusion:  Local injection of bevacizumab has a significant effect on inhibition of alkali burn‐induced corneal neovascularization. This shows the potential value of bevacizumab in the treatment of corneal neovascularization.
Transfusion‐transmitted virus DNA in serum, tear and aqueous humour of patients undergoing cataract operation
Authors: Emre Sinan , Otlu Baris , Çankaya Cem , Doganay Selim , Durmaz Rıza
Published: September 2007

Abstract

Purpose: Transfusion‐transmitted virus (TTV) is a novel non‐enveloped, single‐stranded DNA virus with unclear pathogenesis throughout the world. Many studies were conducted to determine this virus in various body fluids and different primer sets have been tested for accurate diagnosis. This study aimed to collect data on the prevalence of TTV in serum, tear and aqueous humour of patients undergoing planned cataract surgery and to determine efficacy of three different polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques.

Methods: A total of 72 specimens (24 each of serum, tear and aqueous humour specimens) were collected from 24 patients (11 male and 13 female) having age‐related cataract. The patients did not have any other ocular pathology. TTV DNA was investigated by three different PCR methods: a seminested PCR performed with Okamato's primers, a one‐step PCR performed with degenerative Takashi's primers and a commercial real‐time PCR system.

Results: TTV DNA was detected in 20 (83.3%) of the 24 serum specimens by the one‐step PCR and real‐time PCR system. However, seminested PCR yielded a positivity rate of 25%. TTV DNA positivities of the one‐step PCR and the real‐time PCR system were 33.3% and 66.6% of the 24 tear specimens, respectively. Seminested PCR did not yield positive result in these specimens. From aqueous humour specimens, TTV DNA was detected in 3 (12.5%) of the 24 specimens only by the real‐time PCR. TTV DNA positivity of seminested PCR was significantly low in all specimens.

Conclusions: TTV DNA was detected in serum, tear and aqueous humour of patients undergoing cataract surgery, supporting the idea that this virus can be detected almost all of the body fluids but at different rates under various PCR conditions and primer sets. Using commercial real‐time PCR significantly increased the TTV DNA positivity.
Victorian orthoptists' performance in the photo evaluation of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Georgievski Zoran , Koklanis Konstandina , Fenton Adam , Koukouras Ignatios
Published: September 2007

Abstract

Purpose:  The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of orthoptists in detecting various grades of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and retinal pathology not directly associated with diabetes and to identify factors associated with best performance.

Methods:  Forty‐five orthoptists completed a survey comprising questions regarding their workplace experiences, plus a photo evaluation task with 36 digital fundus images.

Results:  We found that orthoptists' overall performance in detecting the presence of abnormality in a series of DR images was high, the mean sensitivity being 86% and specificity 91%. The sensitivity was lower for images with minimal non‐proliferative DR, but higher for those with mild–moderate and severe grades of DR. No factors were predictive of performance on the screening task.

Conclusions:  Orthoptists performed extremely well, meeting the guidelines for DR screening recommended by National Health and Medical Research Council. The results indicate that orthoptists could potentially be used in DR screening models in Australia.
Intravitreal and posterior subtenon triamcinolone acetonide in idiopathic bilateral uveitic macular oedema
Authors: Choudhry Surbhit , Ghosh Sudipta
Published: September 2007

Abstract

Purpose:  To study the efficacy of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) versus posterior subtenon triamcinolone acetonide (PSTA) in bilateral macular oedema secondary to idiopathic intermediate uveitis.

Methods:  In a prospective, interventional case series, 10 patients (20 eyes) with bilateral uveitic macular oedema were included. Patients underwent fundus fluorescein angiography, record of visual acuity and intraocular pressure (IOP). Patients received IVTA 4 mg/0.1 mL in one eye and PSTA 20 mg/0.5 mL in the fellow eye at an interval of ≥4 weeks. The outcome measures were record of IOP, best corrected visual acuity and angiographic resolution of cystoid macular oedema at 3 and 6 months.

Results:  The mean pre‐intervention IOP at baseline between the IVTA and the PSTA group was comparable. At 1 week, the mean IOP recorded was greater in the eyes that received IVTA than those that received PSTA (P < 0.001). However, at 1‐ and 3‐month follow up, the mean IOP between the two groups was similar. Best corrected visual acuity of ≥6/12 achieved at 3 and 6 months in the IVTA and PSTA group was comparable (77.8% vs. 44.4% [P = 0.14] and 88.9% vs. 77.8% [P = 0.53]). There was also no significant difference in angiographic resolution of cystoid macular oedema at 3 (P = 0.32) and 6 months (P = 0.53) between the two groups. Recurrence of macular oedema was seen in one and two eyes that received IVTA and PSTA, respectively, at 6 months.

Conclusion:  Triamcinolone acetonide injection, whether administered intravitreally or via posterior subtenon route, is an effective treatment option in achieving complete anatomic and functional improvement in cases treated for macular oedema secondary to idiopathic intermediate uveitis.
A randomized controlled trial comparing the efficacy and acceptability of phospo‐soda buffered saline (Fleet®) with sodium picosulphate/magnesium citrate (Picoprep®) in the preparation of patients for colonoscopy
Authors: Renaut A. J. , Raniga S. , Frizelle F. A. , Perry R. E. , Guilford L.
Published: September 2007

Objective  Small‐volume bowel preparations for colonoscopy has become increasingly popular due to improved tolerance by patients and equivalent efficacy compared with the larger volume preparations. Comparative studies, however, between small volume preparations are lacking. This randomized controlled trial aimed at comparing the efficacy and acceptability of phospo‐soda buffered saline (Fleet®) with sodium picosulphate/magnesium citrate (Picoprep®) in the preparation of patients for colonoscopy.

Method  A randomized prospective trial designed to compare the efficacy and acceptability of Fleet® with Picoprep® in patients undergoing colonoscopy.

Results  Seventy‐three patients undergoing colonoscopy were randomized to receive either Fleet® or Picoprep® as bowel preparation. Patients were asked to score the acceptability and to comment specifically on adverse events, namely headache, nausea and vomiting. The efficacy of the preparation was also assessed. The results showed no difference in efficacy (P = 0.06, χ2 test), but there was a significant difference in acceptability (P = 0.01, χ2 test). and side effects of patients suffering nausea (P = 0.003, χ2 test), in favour of Picoprep®.

Conclusion  Whilst there was no difference in efficacy, there was a significant difference in acceptability and side effects in favour of Picoprep®.
Total or partial prostate sparing cystectomy for invasive bladder cancer: long‐term implications on erectile function
Authors: Davila Hugo H. , Weber Timothy , Burday David , Thurman Scott , Carrion Rafael , Salup Raoul , Lockhart Jorge L.
Published: September 2007

OBJECTIVE

To review the long‐term results in patients treated with either total or partial prostate‐sparing cystectomy, focusing on erectile function (EF), as en‐bloc radical cystectomy (RC) with or without urethrectomy has been the method of choice for managing invasive bladder carcinoma, but has inherent risks of subsequent urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, with a marked effect on quality of life, especially in younger patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 2003 and 2005 we assessed 21 men (mean age 56 years) who had either a prostate apex‐sparing cystectomy (PASC, 15) or total prostate‐sparing cystectomy (TPSC, six). The mean follow‐up was 30 months for PASC and 24 months for TPSC. The evaluation before surgery included standard bladder cancer staging, prostate specific antigen level, a digital rectal examination and a complete medical history, with attention to self‐reported EF before surgery and the EF domain of the International Index of EF (IIEF) after surgery.

RESULTS

The EF domain score was 20 after PASC and 30 after TPSC; this correlates with mild to moderate ED in the PASC group vs normal erectile function in the TPSC group. After transurethral resection of the bladder tumours (TURBT) 10 of 14 in the PASC group were T1 or T2a, and in the TPSC group, five of six were T2a and one patient was T2b. From the cystectomy specimen, in the PASC group eight were understaged compared with the TURBT specimen (T2b/T4a vs T1/T2a), while in the TPSC group there was understaging two (T3a vs T2a/T2b); this was significantly different (P < 0.05). There was recurrence of urothelial carcinoma in one of 15 and one of six after PASC and TPSC, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The EF domain score after PASC was 10 points lower than after TPSC, representing a 30% increase in EF by preserving the entire prostate. We conclude that in patients with invasive bladder cancer, EF can be significantly preserved by prostate‐sparing cystectomy. If adequate selection criteria are applied, EF can be preserved without compromising cancer control.
A randomized comparison of conventional vs articulating laparoscopic needle‐drivers for performing standardized suturing tasks by laparoscopy‐naive subjects
Authors: Tuncel Altug , Lucas Steven , Bensalah Karim , Zeltser Ilia S. , Jenkins Adam , Saeedi Osamah , Park Sangtae , Cadeddu Jeffrey A.
Published: September 2007

Associate Editor

Ash Tewari

Editorial Board

Ralph Clayman, USA

Inderbir Gill, USA

Roger Kirby, UK

Mani Menon, USA

OBJECTIVES

To compare the efficacy of conventional and articulating laparoscopic needle‐drivers for performing standardized laparoscopic tasks by medical students with no previous surgical experience.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Twenty medical students with no surgical experience were randomly assigned to two equal groups, one using a conventional laparoscopic needle‐holder (Karl Storz, Tuttlingen, Germany) and the other using a first‐generation articulating laparoscopic needle‐holder (Cambridge Endo, Framingham, MA, USA). Each student performed a series of four standardized laparoscopic tasks, during which speed and accuracy were assessed. The tasks tested needle passage through rings (1), an oblique running suture model (2), a urethrovesical anastomosis model (3) and a model simulating renal parenchymal reconstruction following partial nephrectomy (4).

RESULTS

Tasks 1 and 3 were completed significantly more quickly by those using the conventional instruments (P < 0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference for task 2 and 4 (P > 0.05). Those using conventional instruments were significantly more accurate in all of the tasks than those using the articulated instruments (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The conventional laparoscopic needle‐driver allowed laparoscopy‐naive medical students to complete a series of standardized suturing tasks more rapidly and accurately than with the novel articulating needle‐driver. Laparoscopic suturing with first‐generation articulating needle‐drivers might be more difficult to learn, secondary to the complexity of physical manoeuvres required for their use.
Portfolio construction incorporating asymmetric dependence structures: a user's guide
Authors: Hatherley Anthony , Alcock Jamie
Published: September 2007

We outline a method of portfolio selection incorporating asymmetric dependency structures using copula functions. Assuming normally distributed marginal returns, we illustrate how asymmetric return correlations affect the efficient frontier and subsequent portfolio performance under a dynamic rebalancing framework. Implementing this methodology within the context of tactically allocating a small set of market indices, we demonstrate several key findings. First, we establish the manner by which the efficient frontier constructed under asymmetric dependence differs from a mean‐variance frontier. By establishing a paper portfolio based on these differences, we find that asymmetric correlation structures do have real economic value. The primary source of this economic value is the ability to better protect portfolio value and reduce the size of any erosion in return relative to the normal portfolio when asymmetric return correlations are accounted for.
The impact of obesity on female reproductive function
Authors: Metwally M. , Li T. C. , Ledger W. L.
Published: September 2007

Obesity may be described as the new worldwide epidemic, and its serious impact on morbidity and mortality are well known. As more and more women become obese, the reproductive problems associated with obesity present an ever‐growing challenge to physicians involved in their fertility care. The spectrum of reproductive problems associated with obesity encompasses a wide range of disorders including infertility problems, miscarriage and pregnancy complications. In this review, we aim to discuss the impact of obesity on the various aspects of female reproductive function with focus on the clinical aspects of fertility problems in obese women. We finally comment on the available therapeutic options available to this group of women.
The Choice of Exchange Rate Regime and the Volatility of Exchange Rates after the Asian Crisis: A Counterfactual Analysis
Authors: Wilson Peter , Ren Henry Ng Shang
Published: September 2007

The objective of this paper is to carry out a counterfactual analysis of the impact of alternative exchange rate regimes on the volatility of the nominal effective exchange rate (NEER) and the bilateral rate against the US dollar for nine East Asian countries after the Asian financial crisis. Our hypothetical regimes include a unilateral basket peg (UBP), a common basket peg (CBP) and a hard peg against the dollar. We find that a UBP would minimise effective exchange rate volatility for all countries and provides the highest regime gains compared to actual. Although the gains for a CBP are always less than those for a UBP, the absolute differences between the two regimes appear to be small. In terms of the bilateral relationship against the dollar, the gains from a UBP or CBP could be quite significant for the non‐dollar peggers since a fall in effective instability would be accompanied by a fall in bilateral instability.
CAN UNIONS HURT WORKERS? A POSITIVE ANALYSIS OF IMMIGRATION POLICY
Authors: BELLETTINI GIORGIO , BERTI CERONI CARLOTTA
Published: September 2007

This paper studies the determinants of immigration policy in an economy with entrepreneurs and workers where a trade union has market power over wages. The presence of the union induces a social welfare maximizing government to implement a high level of immigration, leading to a welfare loss not only from an aggregate point of view but also from the workers' point of view. When interest group politics prevails and workers' ability to influence the policy‐maker is strengthened by existence of the union, we show the conditions under which workers may benefit from the presence of the union.
Altered cerebral glucose and acetate metabolism in succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase‐deficient mice: evidence for glial dysfunction and reduced glutamate/glutamine cycling
Authors: Chowdhury G. M. I. , Gupta M. , Gibson K. M. , Patel A. B. , Behar K. L.
Published: September 2007

Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase (SSADH) catalyzes the NADP‐dependent oxidation of succinic semialdehyde to succinate, the final step of the GABA shunt pathway. SSADH deficiency in humans is associated with excessive elevation of GABA and γ‐hydroxybutyrate (GHB). Recent studies of SSADH‐null mice show that elevated GABA and GHB are accompanied by reduced glutamine, a known precursor of the neurotransmitters glutamate and GABA. In this study, cerebral metabolism was investigated in urethane‐anesthetized SSADH‐null and wild‐type 17‐day‐old mice by intraperitoneal infusion of [1,6‐13C2]glucose or [2‐13C]acetate for different periods. Cortical extracts were prepared and measured using high‐resolution 1H‐[13C] NMR spectroscopy. Compared with wild‐type, levels of GABA, GHB, aspartate, and alanine were significantly higher in SSADH‐null cortex, whereas glutamate, glutamine, and taurine were lower. 13C Labeling from [1,6‐13C2]glucose, which is metabolized in neurons and glia, was significantly lower (expressed as μmol of 13C incorporated per gram of brain tissue) for glutamate‐(C4,C3), glutamine‐C4, succinate‐(C3/2), and aspartate‐C3 in SSADH‐null cortex, whereas Ala‐C3 was higher and GABA‐C2 unchanged. 13C Labeling from [2‐13C]acetate, a glial substrate, was lower mainly in glutamine‐C4 and glutamate‐(C4,C3). GHB was labeled by both substrates in SSADH‐null mice consistent with GABA as precursor. Our findings indicate that SSADH deficiency is associated with major alterations in glutamate and glutamine metabolism in glia and neurons with surprisingly lesser effects on GABA synthesis.
Neuroprotective actions of noradrenaline: effects on glutathione synthesis and activation of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor delta
Authors: Madrigal Jose L. M. , Kalinin Sergey , Richardson Jill C. , Feinstein Douglas L.
Published: September 2007

The endogenous neurotransmitter noradrenaline (NA) can protect neurons from the toxic consequences of various inflammatory stimuli, however the exact mechanisms of neuroprotection are not well known. In the current study, we examined neuroprotective effects of NA in primary cultures of rat cortical neurons. Exposure to oligomeric amyloid beta (Aβ) 1‐42 peptide induced neuronal damage revealed by increased staining with fluorojade, and toxicity assessed by LDH release. Aβ‐dependent neuronal death did not involve neuronal expression of the inducible nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2), since Aβ did not induce nitrite production from neurons, LDH release was not reduced by co‐incubation with NOS2 inhibitors, and neurotoxicity was similar in wildtype and NOS2 deficient neurons. Co‐incubation with NA partially reduced Aβ‐induced neuronal LDH release, and completely abrogated the increase in fluorojade staining. Treatment of neurons with NA increased expression of γ‐glutamylcysteine ligase, reduced levels of GSH peroxidase, and increased neuronal GSH levels. The neuroprotective effects of NA were partially blocked by co‐treatment with an antagonist of peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs), and replicated by incubation with a selective PPARdelta (PPARδ) agonist. NA also increased expression and activation of PPARδ. Together these data demonstrate that NA can protect neurons from Aβ‐induced damage, and suggest that its actions may involve activation of PPARδ and increases in GSH production.
Minocycline decreases in vitro microglial motility, β1‐integrin, and Kv1.3 channel expression
Authors: Nutile‐McMenemy Nancy , Elfenbein Arye , DeLeo Joyce A.
Published: September 2007

Minocycline is a semisynthetic, tetracycline derivative that exerts anti‐inflammatory and neuroprotective effects unrelated to its anti‐microbial action. We have previously shown that minocycline prevented peripheral nerve injury‐induced mechanical allodynia. Minocycline’s mechanisms of action as a neuroprotective and anti‐allodynic agent are unknown. In response to injury, microglia become activated, proliferate, and migrate. Resting microglia express voltage‐dependent inward K+ currents and blocking Kv1.3 channels has been shown to inhibit microglial‐mediated neuronal death. We investigated the effect of minocycline on the expression of Kv channels, cell motility, and β‐integrin expression using primary rat cortical microglia, transwell assays, and by flow cytometry. Minocycline significantly reduced microglial migration to cellular debris, astrocyte‐conditioned medium, ADP, and algesic mediators and significantly reduced the expression of CD29 (β1‐integrin) but not CD18 (β2‐integrin). Minocycline reduced the effect of extracellular potassium and later decreased microglial Kv1.3 expression. In summary, we uncovered a novel effect of minocycline that demonstrates this agent decreases microglial β1‐integrin expression, which leads to inhibition of motility. We propose an in vivo model whereby reduced microglial trafficking to injured neurons following nerve injury decreases the release of proinflammatory mediators into the synaptic milieu, preventing neuronal sensitization, the pathological correlate to chronic pain.
Uncoupling is without an effect on the production of reactive oxygen species by in situ synaptic mitochondria
Authors: Tretter Laszlo , Adam‐Vizi Vera
Published: September 2007

Earlier reports that generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by isolated mitochondria supported by succinate was sensitive to small changes in the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) served as a basis for the concept of ‘mild uncoupling’ suggesting that a few millivolts decrease in ΔΨm would be beneficial in neuroprotection because of reducing the production of ROS by mitochondria. In this study, we tested whether ROS generation by in situ mitochondria, which function in a normal cytosolic environment and oxidize glucose‐derived physiological substrates, is also dependent on changes in ΔΨm. The release of H2O2 was measured by the Amplex red fluorescence assay in freshly prepared isolated nerve terminals, synaptosomes incubated in a glucose‐containing medium. ΔΨm was decreased by the uncoupler carbonyl cyanide‐p‐trifluoromethoxyphenyl‐hydrazon (FCCP) (10–200 nmol/L), which accelerated the oxygen consumption, decreased the NADH level and induced depolarization, as shown by the fluorescence indicator JC‐1, in in situ mitochondria. These changes were detected at already the smallest FCCP concentration. H2O2 generation, however, was found to be unaltered by FCCP at any of the applied concentration. Depolarization of mitochondria was also induced by veratridine (40 μmol/L), which enhances the cytosolic Na+ concentration and imposes an ATP demand in synaptosomes. The accelerated oxygen consumption and the small depolarization of in situ mitochondria by veratridine were not paralleled by any significant alteration in the ROS generation. These findings indicate that a basal ROS generation by in situ mitochondria is not sensitive to changes in ΔΨm challenging the rational of the ‘mild uncoupling’ theory for neuroprotection and suggest that the ΔΨm‐dependent characteristics of ROS generation is limited mainly to well‐coupled succinate‐supported isolated mitochondria.
Retinoid receptors in chronic degeneration of the spinal cord: observations in a rat model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Jokic Natasa , Ling Yong Yong , Ward Rachael E. , Michael‐Titus Adina T. , Priestley John V. , Malaspina Andrea
Published: September 2007

Changes in distribution and expression of retinoid receptors may be part of a spinal cord protective response to acute injury and to chronic degeneration. In this study, we have combined RNA and protein expression analysis to characterize the expression profile of retinoid receptors in the lumbar spinal cord of the superoxide dismutase 1 G93A mutant rat model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a fatal neurodegenerative disorder causing extensive motor neuron loss. We also report a nonsignificant change in RNA expression of binding proteins and metabolizing enzymes for retinol and retinoic acid in the mutant rat spinal cord at end‐stage disease. Only retinoid X receptor beta (RXRbeta), and to a lesser extent retinoic acid receptor beta and alpha (RARbeta/alpha) were reliably detected in lumbar spinal cord at an early pre‐symptomatic phase and throughout the disease progression. The expression of RXRbeta in lamina II neurons in the dorsal horn of transgenic and wild type (WT) animals was associated with extensive astrocyte staining in end‐stage lumbar spinal cord from transgenic rats. RARbeta and RARalpha diffuse staining of large motor neurons in the pre‐symptomatic transgenic and in the WT lumbar cord appear to decline in end‐stage disease, when a selective and strong gamma motor neuron RARalpha staining becomes evident. As gliosis and motor neuron loss are key pathogenic features in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the selective expression of retinoid receptors in astrocytes and motor neurons may provide further clues to the role of retinoid signalling in neurodegeneration and suggest new treatment strategies based on retinoid‐modulating agents.
Pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide is up‐regulated in cortical pyramidal cells after focal ischemia and protects neurons from mild hypoxic/ischemic damage
Authors: Stumm Ralf , Kolodziej Angela , Prinz Vincent , Endres Matthias , Wu Dai‐Fei , Höllt Volker
Published: September 2007

The protective effect of pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide (PACAP) in stroke models is poorly understood. We studied patterns of PACAP, vasoactive intestinal peptide, and the PACAP‐selective receptor PAC1 after middle cerebral artery occlusion and neuroprotection by PACAP in cortical cultures exposed to oxygen/glucose deprivation (OGD). Within hours, focal ischemia caused a massive, NMDA receptor (NMDAR)‐dependent up‐regulation of PACAP in cortical pyramidal cells. PACAP expression dropped below the control level after 2 days and was normalized after 4 days. Vasoactive intestinal peptide expression was regulated oppositely to that of PACAP. PAC1 mRNA showed ubiquitous expression in neurons and astrocytes with minor changes after ischemia. In cultured cortical neurons PACAP27 strongly activated Erk1/2 at low and p38 MAP kinase at higher nanomolar concentrations via PAC1. In astrocyte cultures, effects of PACAP27 on Erk1/2 and p38 were weak. During OGD, neurons showed severely reduced Erk1/2 activity and dephosphorylation of Erk1/2‐regulated Ser112 of pro‐apoptotic Bad. PACAP27 stimulation counteracted Erk1/2 inactivation and Bad dephosphorylation during short‐term OGD but was ineffective after expanded OGD. Consistently, PACAP27 caused MEK‐dependent neuroprotection during mild but not severe hypoxic/ischemic stress. While PACAP27 protected neurons at 1–5 nmol/L, full PAC1 activation by 100 nmol/L PACAP exaggerated hypoxic/ischemic damage. PACAP27 stimulation of astrocytes increased the production of Akt‐activating factors and conferred ischemic tolerance to neurons. Thus, ischemia‐induced PACAP may act via neuronal and astroglial PAC1. PACAP confers protection to ischemic neurons by maintaining Erk1/2 signaling via neuronal PAC1 and by increasing neuroprotective factor production via astroglial PAC1.
G protein‐coupled receptor oligomerization provides the framework for signal discrimination1
Authors: Maggio Roberto , Innamorati Giulio , Parenti Marco
Published: September 2007

The idea that G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) may undergo homo‐ or hetero‐oligomerization, although highly controversial up to a few years ago, has recently gained wide acceptance. The recognition that GPCRs may exhibit either dimeric or oligomeric structures is based upon a large body of biochemical and biophysical evidence. While much effort has been spent to demonstrate the mechanism(s) by which GPCRs interact with each other, the physiological relevance of this phenomenon remains rather elusive. GPCR oligomerization has been proposed to play a role in receptor ontogeny by either chaperoning protein folding or controlling trafficking to the cell surface. However, the acquisition of these roles does not rule out the possibility that oligomeric receptors may have additional functions, once they are brought to the cell surface. Herein, we propose that protein–protein as well as protein–lipid interactions may provide the structural basis for organizing distinct cell compartments along the plasma membrane where different extracellular signals may be perceived and discriminated.
Circadian phosphorylation of ATF‐2, a potential activator of Period2 gene transcription in the chick pineal gland
Authors: Shimizu Fumiko , Fukada Yoshitaka
Published: September 2007

Stimulus‐induced transcription of the Period gene is a critical step for phase‐shift of vertebrate circadian systems. The promoter region of chicken Period2 contains a canonical calcium/cAMP‐responsive element, but its functional relevance is not known. The present study shows that cAMP‐responsive element‐binding protein (CREB) and activating transcription factor‐2 (ATF‐2) bind to the promoter region of the Period2 gene in the chick pineal gland. In transient transfection assays, a reporter construct containing 0.7‐kbp upstream region of chicken Period2 was transactivated by ATF‐2, but it was poorly responsive to CREB. In the chick pineal gland, phosphorylation of CREB protein at the kinase‐inducible domain was negatively regulated by light. On the other hand, phosphorylation of ATF‐2 at the amino‐terminal transactivation domain exhibited a circadian rhythm with a daytime peak, suggesting a role for ATF‐2 in circadian rhythmicity in the chick pineal gland.