bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of the Time Course and Extent of Neurotoxicity at Defined Temperatures in Cultured Neurons Using a Modified Multiwell Plate Fluorescence Scanner
Authors: Sattler Rita , Charlton Milton P. , Hafner Mathias , Tymianski Michael
Published: September 2004

The cellular and molecular mechanisms of hypoxic/ischemic neurodegeneration are sensitive to numerous factors that modulate the time course and degree of neuronal death. Among such factors is hypothermia, which can dramatically protect neurons from injury. To examine and control for temperature-dependent effects, we developed a technique that provides for a high-throughput, accurate, and reproducible determination of the time course and degree of neurotoxicity in cultured cortical neurons at precisely defined temperatures. We used a fluorescence multiwell plate scanner, modified by us to permit the control of temperature, to perform serial quantitative measurements of propidium iodide (PI) fluorescence in cortical neuronal cultures exposed to excitotoxic insults. In validating this approach, we show that these time course measurements correlate highly with manual counts of PI-stained cells in the same cultures ( r = 0.958, p < 0.0001) and with lactate dehydrogenase release ( r = 0.964, p < 0.0001). This method represents an efficient approach to mechanistic and quantitative studies of cell death as well as a high-throughput technique for screening new neuroprotective therapies in vitro.
Therapeutic Efficacy of the Epley Canalith Repositioning Maneuver
Authors: Ruckenstein Michael J.
Published: September 2004

Objectives/Hypotheses The hypotheses of the current study are as follows: 1) That if the Epley canalith repositioning maneuver is an effective treatment for benign positional vertigo (BPV), relief from the vertigo should occur virtually immediately after the performance of the maneuver; 2) that the Epley canalith repositioning maneuver does provide almost immediate relief in BPV and should be the established treatment of choice for this disorder in both primary and tertiary care settings; and 3) that residual symptoms of lightheadedness and imbalance do persist after the resolution of the vertigo. The distinction of these symptoms from the vertigo is required for the accurate evaluation of the efficacy of positional maneuvers.

Study Design Prospective cohort study in a tertiary care balance center.

Methods Eighty‐six patients (95 cases) with a history and physical examination consistent with active BPV were entered in the study. Patients were treated with a modified Epley canalith repositioning maneuver. A modified 360° roll was used to treat those patients with horizontal canal BPV. Patients were provided with a preprinted diary in which they were to circle the answer most relevant to their symptoms for 14 days after the maneuver. Patients were then re‐evaluated in the office at 2 weeks after the maneuver.

Results The mean duration of the BPV before treatment was 9 weeks. Seventy‐four percent of cases that were treated with one or two canalith repositioning maneuvers had a resolution of vertigo as a direct result of the maneuver. A resolution attributable to the first intervention was obtained in 70% of cases within 48 hours of the maneuver. An additional 14% of cases that were treated had a resolution of vertigo; however, it is not possible to say that these patients definitely benefited from the canalith repositioning maneuver. Only 4% of cases (three patients) manifested BPV that persisted after four treatments. Residual symptoms of lightheadedness or imbalance, or both, were frequent (47% of cases) but rarely required formal intervention with vestibular rehabilitation physical therapy.

Conclusions The Epley canalith repositioning maneuver results in a resolution of vertigo in the majority of patients (70% of cases) immediately after one treatment. It is safe and requires no special equipment or investigations. It should be established as the treatment of choice for BPV in both primary and tertiary care settings.
Cause of Death in Patients With Well‐Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Beasley Nigel J. P. , Walfish Paul G. , Witterick Ian , Freeman Jeremy L.
Published: September 2004

Objectives The aim of this study is to examine in detail patients dying of well‐differentiated thyroid carcinoma.

Study Design A retrospective chart review with follow‐up.

Methods Data were collected from 522 consecutive cases of differentiated thyroid carcinoma treated by one endocrinologist and four surgeons at Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, from 1964 to 1999.

Results Ten patients died as a direct result of thyroid carcinoma; 19 other deaths were unrelated. Five of 102 patients were men (5%) and 5 of 420 were women (1%); the median age at diagnosis was 68.5 years (range, 49–82 y). No cases were stage I; three, stage II; two, stage III; and five, stage IV. Pathologically papillary carcinoma was found in six of the patients who died, follicular carcinoma in three patients, and Hurtle cell carcinoma in one patient. The causes of death were local invasion or compression of the trachea in two cases and distant metastases in eight patients. Median survival was 3.5 years (range, 1 mo–20 y).

Conclusions All patients dying of well‐differentiated thyroid carcinoma had neck nodes, extrathyroidal spread, or distant metastases at presentation and were older than 49 years of age. Many presented because of their distant metastases. Death resulting from local disease was unusual, with most patients dying of distant metastases.
Hyperthermic, Supersaturated Humidification in the Treatment of Xerostomia
Authors: Criswell Mark A. , Sinha Christopher K.
Published: September 2004

Objectives To investigate the role of hyperthermic, supersaturated humidification in the treatment of radiation‐induced xerostomia.

Study Design A randomized, controlled, crossover pilot study of patients with symptomatic xerostomia following radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. Patients compared a standard bedside humidifier with a new device delivering hyperthermic, supersaturated humidification through a nasal cannula.

Methods The patients were randomized to a 2‐week course of standard, cool air bedside humidification or to hyperthermic, supersaturated humidification through a nasal cannula (Vapotherm Inc., Annapolis, MD). After a 1‐week washout period, patients were crossed over to the opposite device for another 2 weeks. The patients underwent physical examination initially and after each trial period using an objective xerostomia scale, and then completed a questionnaire quantifying their symptoms. Patients additionally rated their symptoms at home, twice daily, using a visual analogue scale.

Results Using the Oral Assessment Guide, lip scores went from 1.67 initially to 1.67 after control and 1.67 after Vapotherm. Tongue scores were 1.67, 1.5, and 1.83, respectively. Saliva scores were 1.67, 1.5, and 1.5, respectively. Mucous membranes scores were 1.5, 1.67, and 1.5, respectively. The physical examination scores at these four sites were not significantly different between control and Vapotherm (P = .78, .78, .72, and .37, respectively). The patient symptom questionnaire and visual analogue scores also revealed no significant difference between the two devices.

Conclusion The Vapotherm MT‐3000 device appears to provide minimal or no additional relief from radiation xerostomia over standard bedside humidifiers. Further investigation may be warranted with newer models of the device and with disorders of mucociliary clearance.
Adenotonsillar Hypertrophy and Epstein‐Barr Virus in Pediatric Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Shapiro Nina L. , Strocker Ali M.
Published: September 2004

Objectives/Hypothesis Epstein‐Barr virus–related (EBV‐related) lymphoid hyperplasia of the tonsils and adenoids is a precursor to post‐transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). The incidence of post‐transplantation adenotonsillar hypertrophy, a potential early sign of PTLD or EBV‐related lymphoid hyperplasia, is not known. We sought to identify potential risk factors for adenotonsillar hypertrophy manifested as EBV‐related hyperplasia and early PTLD in the pediatric solid organ transplant population.

Study Design Cross‐sectional analysis.

Methods We developed a 65‐point questionnaire concerning obstructive sleep disorder and upper respiratory tract infections and an 8‐point focused physical examination, to identify prevalence of and risk factors for adenotonsillar hypertrophy in the pediatric transplant population. We evaluated 120 pediatric solid organ transplant recipients by parental questionnaire and focused adenotonsillar physical examination.

Results Of the 120 patients, 62 had undergone liver transplantation and 58 had undergone kidney transplantation. Overall, the mean questionnaire score was 8.36 (range, 0–40) and the mean physical examination score was 3.86 (range, 1–8). Patients whose EBV serological test result was negative at the time of transplant had higher scores for both the questionnaire (mean score, 10.24) and the physical examination (mean score, 4.56) than those whose EBV serological test result was positive at the time of transplantation (scores of 7.38 and 3.30 for questionnaire and physical examination, respectively). The difference in examination scores was statistically significant (P <.003).

Conclusions Epstein‐Barr virus seronegativity at the time of organ transplantation is a known risk factor for PTLD, with associated risk of developing EBV‐related lymphoid hyperplasia. Our results indicate a higher incidence of symptoms and signs consistent with adenotonsillar hypertrophy in the EBV seronegative population. Adenotonsillar hypertrophy may be a precursor to EBV‐related lymphoid hyperplasia and PTLD and must be identified in this patient population.
Expression Patterns of Cytokeratins in Retraction Pocket Cholesteatomas
Authors: Kim Hyung‐Jong , Tinling Steven P. , Chole Richard A.
Published: September 2004

Objectives To investigate the patterns of cytokeratin (CK) expression in retraction pocket cholesteatoma.

Study Design An animal model study.

Methods Retraction pocket cholesteatomas were induced by electrocautery of the eustachian tube orifice in 24 mongolian gerbils. They were divided into normal and cholesteatoma groups of clinical stages I to IV. The antibodies to pan‐cytokeratin CK 1/10, CK 5/6, CK 4, and CK 13/16 were used for immunohistochemical staining. The intensity of staining in each group as measured with densitometry was compared regarding anatomical sites and clinical stages.

Results In retraction pocket cholesteatoma, CK expression was altered only at focal sites such as the pars tensa of the tympanic membrane. The change of CK expression was observed only at certain stages of cholesteatoma formation. In keratinocytes from cholesteatomas, CK 13/16 was overexpressed compared with control specimens, indicating hyperproliferation. The site with the most prominent change in retraction pocket cholesteatoma was somewhat different from that in canal ligation cholesteatoma in a previous study.

Conclusions The results suggested that aural cholesteatoma is a disease with a spectrum of pathological conditions and that the transmigration and hyperproliferation process of squamous epithelium occurs in areas adjacent to the cholesteatoma.
Cycline‐Dependent Kinase Inhibitor, p27 (KIP1), Is Associated With Cholesteatoma
Authors: Bayazít Yíldírím A. , Karakök Metin , Uçak Ramazan , Kanlíkama Muzaffer
Published: September 2004

Objective Cyclin‐dependent kinases (CDKis) can arrest the cell cycle, which in turn inhibits the cell proliferation. P27 (KIP1) is a CDKi and acts as a tumor suppressor gene. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of p27 CDKi in cholesteatoma, a disease characterized by the presence of hyperproliferative squamous epithelium.

Study Design Immunohistochemical staining of 15 cholesteatoma and 18 control ear canal skin samples, which were taken intraoperatively, was performed for p27 positivity.

Methods The monoclonal antibodies to p27 were used for immunohistochemical staining of the sections. The streptavidin‐biotin horseradish method was used. The number of cells staining positive for p27 was calculated, and the intensity of p27 positivity was graded.

Results P27 positivity was obtained in 9 (50%) of 18 skin tissues. In the cholesteatoma tissues, p27 positivity was found only in 2 (13.3%) tissue samples. The difference between the groups were statistically significant (P = .03). The mean numbers of p27 positivity were 11.8 ± 15.5 and 1.4 ± 3.8 (mean ± standard deviation) in the skin and cholesteatoma samples, respectively. This difference was also statistically significant (P = .02). The p27 results of primary and secondary cholesteatoma samples were not significantly different (P = .3). The results of p27 were not related to the gender of the patients (P = .8).

Conclusion P27 is involved directly or indirectly in the occurrence of cholesteatoma. Alterations of p27 levels in keratinocytes can influence the proliferative state of the keratinocytes. Altered p27 levels in cholesteatoma may suggest a molecular pathology in cholesteatoma. The search for significance of CDKis seems promising to better understand the pathogenesis of cholesteatoma.
The Levels of Expression of Galectin‐3, But Not of Galectin‐1 and Galectin‐8, Correlate With Apoptosis in Human Cholesteatomas
Authors: Sheikholeslam‐Zadeh Reza , Decaestecker Christine , Delbrouck Carine , Danguy André , Salmon Isabelle , Zick Yehiel , Kaltner Herbert , Hassid Sergio , Gabius Hans‐Joachim , Kiss Robert , Choufani Georges
Published: September 2004

Objectives To investigate whether galectins 1, 3, and 8 are expressed in human cholesteatomas and whether any such expression does correlate with the level of apoptosis, which is, as we have previously shown, predictive of recurrence. 7

Study Design The analysis of 52 cholesteatomas resected by the same surgeon by means of canal wall up and canal wall down procedures.

Methods The immunohistochemical levels of expression of galectins 1, 3, and 8 were quantitatively determined (using computer‐assisted microscopy) on conventional histological slides by means of specific anti–galectin‐1, anti–galectin‐3, and anti–galectin‐8 antibodies. The level of apoptosis in each cholesteatoma under study had already been determined 7 by means of the in situ labeling of nuclear DNA fragmentation (Tolt‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling [TUNEL] staining).

Results Galectin‐1 was expressed markedly in both the epithelial and the connective tissue areas of all the cholesteatomas under study. The levels of expression of galectin‐3 and galectin‐8 were considerably lower than that of galectin‐1. The level of expression of galectin‐3 correlated both highly and positively with the level of apoptosis.

Conclusions An upregulation of galectin‐3 (known to have an antiapoptotic and antianoikis effect in certain model systems) expression, which is associated with pronounced apoptotic activity, could have a physiologically protective effect against the characteristically substantial apoptotic features occurring in recurrent cholesteatomas.
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, Maxillomandibular Advancement, and the Velopharynx
Authors: Li Kasey K. , Troell Robert J. , Riley Robert W. , Powell Nelson B. , Koester Uta , Guilleminault Christian
Published: September 2004

Objective To evaluate the presence of velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) symptoms and the associated changes of the velopharyngeal anatomy in patients who underwent maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) for persistent obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) after uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP).

Methods Preoperative and postoperative cephalometric radiographs were analyzed to assess the anatomic changes of the velopharynx. In addition, a questionnaire survey was sent to the patients between 6 to 12 months after MMA. The questionnaires evaluated the presence and extent of VPI symptoms, including nasal regurgitation while eating or drinking as well as hypernasal speech. A 10‐cm visual analog scale (VAS 0‐10) was included to assess the impact of VPI symptoms on the patient's quality of life. In the patients who reported VPI symptoms, telephone interviews were conducted 1 year after the survey to evaluate the changes in VPI symptoms over time.

Results Fifty‐two of the 65 questionnaires were returned. Five patients (9.6%) reported nasal regurgitation of liquids when drinking hastily, with 2 patients reporting the occurrences as occasional and 3 patients reporting as rare. The impact of these symptoms on the patient's quality of life was minimal (VAS 0.6 ± 0.4). Regurgitation of food or hypernasal speech was not reported. The telephone interviews 1 year later revealed that the symptoms have completely resolved in all 5 patients. Comparison of the preoperative and postoperative cephalometric radiographs demonstrated the pharyngeal depth increase was 48% of the amount of maxillary advancement and the functional pharyngeal length increased 53% of the maxillary advancement. The functional depth of the pharynx after MMA was significantly greater in the patients with VPI symptoms (P = .01).

Conclusion The results of this study suggest that patients who undergo MMA for persistent OSA after UPPP have a low risk of developing VPI. If symptoms occur postoperatively, they are mild and have minimal effect on the patient's quality of life; moreover, the symptoms usually resolve over time.
Is Dissection of Level IV Necessary in Patients With T1‐T3 N0 Tongue Cancer?
Authors: Khafif Avi , Lopez‐Garza Juan R. , Medina Jesus E.
Published: September 2004

Objective Dissection of the lower jugular level of lymph nodes (level IV), as part of an elective neck dissection, has been advocated recently for all patients with oral tongue cancer because of the possibility of “skip metastases” to levels III and IV. The current study was undertaken to evaluate the need to perform a dissection of level IV in patients with oral tongue cancer with no clinical evidence of nodal metastases.

Methods Fifty‐one patients with T1‐3, N0 squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue were treated with a partial glossectomy and a selective neck dissection of levels I, II, and III. When enlarged nodes were encountered during surgery in level II or III, the dissection was extended to include the nodes in level IV. Involvement of level IV was determined either by the presence of carcinoma on pathological examination or by the development of recurrence in the untreated level IV during a follow‐up period of at least 2 years.

Results Level IV was resected as part of the specimen in 17 of the 51 patients and metastatic tumor was found in this level in only one patient. At an average follow‐up of 4.1 years, only one patient recurred at level IV, which had been addressed at the initial neck dissection. Consequently, the rate of metastases to undissected level IV was 2%.

Conclusions Metastases to level IV lymph nodes is rare in patients with T1‐T3, N0 oral tongue cancer. Dissection of these nodes only when there is intraoperative suspicion of metastases in levels II or III does not increase the risk or recurrence of tumor in the neck.
Noncontact Laser Doppler Imaging in Burn Depth Analysis of the Extremities
Authors: Riordan Colin L. , McDonough Mark , Davidson Jeffrey M. , Corley Randall , Perlov Cathy , Barton Ronald , Guy Jeffrey , Nanney Lillian B.
Published: September 2004

The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy and practical utility of a noncontact laser Doppler imager (PIM-II, Lisca Development AB, Linköping, Sweden) in the estimation of burn depth in the upper and lower extremities. At 48 hours after burn injury, we performed scans of 35 burns in 22 patients and obtained histological samples for burn determination with hematoxylin and eosin and vimentin immunohistochemical staining. Additionally, sequential scans and tissue specimens were obtained on 10 burns at 24, 48, and 72 hours. A statistically significant inverse relationship was noted between burn depth and the laser Doppler perfusion index. Laser Doppler perfusion index values greater than 1.3 predicted a superficial dermal burn with 95% sensitivity and 94% specificity. Superficial dermal burns exhibited increased perfusion in the early burn period. Wounds showed a progressive decline in perfusion and a progressive increase in the depth of injury during a 72-hour period. This study demonstrates the advantage and accuracy of using a noncontact laser Doppler to differentiate deep dermal from superficial partial thickness burns in the extremities.
Predisposing Factors for Self-inflicted Burns
Authors: Pham Tam N. , King Jennifer R. , Palmieri Tina L. , Greenhalgh David G.
Published: September 2004

Self-inflicted burn injuries, although uncommon, are a significant source of morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study was to delineate the characteristics of these burns and to examine their impact on society. Records of 32 adult patients admitted for self-inflicted burns at our regional burn center between January 1996 and August 2001 were retrospectively reviewed. The mean burn size was 34 ± 29% TBSA, with the majority of burns being the result of self-immolation using a flammable liquid. There was a slight male predominance (59%) and a significant mortality rate (25%). Ninety-one percent of patients had an active psychiatric diagnosis, with 47% having had a previous suicide attempt. Two thirds had a chronic stressor, such as a chronic medical illness and/or long-term disability. Only four patients had private insurance, whereas the remainder relied on underfunded state- and county-sponsored programs or were uninsured. In addition to well-described psychiatric factors, common characteristics predisposing to self-inflicted burns include chronic medical illnesses, long-term disability, and a lack of access to adequate mental health care. Better treatment of mental illness in the underfunded population might ultimately save the high costs of these burn injuries.
Combined Smoke Inhalation and Scald Burn in the Rat
Authors: Quinn D. A. , Moufarrej R. , Volokhov A. , Syrkina O. , Hales C. A.
Published: September 2004

The combination of burn injury with smoke inhalation from fires significantly increases mortality. The mechanism of increased mortality is poorly understood but has been associated with multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, including cardiac dysfunction. Impaired cardiac function correlates with decreased survival in burn patients. We investigated smoke inhalation from burning cotton combined with a 40% body surface area, third-degree burn during the first 4 hours after injury in rats. In the early phase after injury, burn caused a significant rise in lung neutrophil infiltration but no increase in lung water. Smoke led to a rise in lung water but only a mild increase in neutrophil infiltration. Combined smoke and burn did not increase neutrophil accumulation or lung water above that which occurred with either injury alone. Only in combined smoke and burn was there a drop in cardiac output and stroke volume with pulmonary edema and lung neutrophil influx.
Requirement of yeast Rad1–Rad10 nuclease for the removal of 3′-blocked termini from DNA strand breaks induced by reactive oxygen species
Authors: Guzder Sami N. , Torres-Ramos Carlos , Johnson Robert E. , Haracska Lajos , Prakash Louise , Prakash Satya
Published: September 2004

The Rad1-Rad10 nuclease of yeast and its human counterpart ERCC1-XPF are indispensable for nucleotide excision repair, where they act by cleaving the damaged DNA strand on the 5′-side of the lesion. Intriguingly, the ERCC1- and XPF-deficient mice show a severe postnatal growth defect and they die at ∼3 wk after birth. Here we present genetic and biochemical evidence for the requirement of Rad1-Rad10 nuclease in the removal of 3′-blocked termini from DNA strand breaks induced on treatment of yeast cells with the oxidative DNA damaging agent H2O2. Our genetic studies indicate that 3′-blocked termini are removed in yeast by the three competing pathways that involve the Apn1, Apn2, and Rad1-Rad10 nucleases, and we show that the Rad1-Rad10 nuclease proficiently cleaves DNA modified with a 3′-phosphoglycolate terminus. From these observations, we infer that deficient removal of 3′-blocking groups formed from the action of oxygen free radicals generated during normal cellular metabolism is the primary underlying cause of the inviability of apn1Δ apn2Δ rad1Δ and apn1Δapn2Δ rad10Δ mutants and that such a deficiency accounts also for the severe growth defects of ERCC1- and XPF-deficient mice.
Essential role of BCL9-2 in the switch between β-catenin's adhesive and transcriptional functions
Authors: Brembeck Felix H. , Schwarz-Romond Thomas , Bakkers Jeroen , Wilhelm Sabine , Hammerschmidt Matthias , Birchmeier Walter
Published: September 2004

β-Catenin controls both cadherin-mediated cell adhesion and activation of Wnt target genes. We demonstrate here that the β-catenin-binding protein BCL9-2, a homolog of the human proto-oncogene product BCL9, induces epithelial-mesenchymal transitions of nontransformed cells and increases β-catenin-dependent transcription. RNA interference of BCL9-2 in carcinoma cells induces an epithelial phenotype and translocates β-catenin from the nucleus to the cell membrane. The switch between β-catenin's adhesive and transcriptional functions is modulated by phosphorylation of Tyr 142 of β-catenin, which favors BCL9-2 binding and precludes interaction with α-catenin. During zebrafish embryogenesis, BCL9-2 acts in the Wnt8-signaling pathway and regulates mesoderm patterning.
Isolation and Functional Analysis of Arabidopsis Stress-Inducible NAC Transcription Factors That Bind to a Drought-Responsivecis-Element in theearly responsive to dehydration stress 1Promoter[W]
Authors: Tran Lam-Son Phan , Nakashima Kazuo , Sakuma Yoh , Simpson Sean D. , Fujita Yasunari , Maruyama Kyonoshin , Fujita Miki , Seki Motoaki , Shinozaki Kazuo , Yamaguchi-Shinozaki Kazuko
Published: September 2004

The MYC-like sequence CATGTG plays an important role in the dehydration-inducible expression of the Arabidopsis thaliana EARLY RESPONSIVE TO DEHYDRATION STRESS 1 (ERD1) gene, which encodes a ClpA (ATP binding subunit of the caseinolytic ATP-dependent protease) homologous protein. Using the yeast one-hybrid system, we isolated three cDNA clones encoding proteins that bind to the 63-bp promoter region of erd1, which contains the CATGTG motif. These three cDNA clones encode proteins named ANAC019, ANAC055, and ANAC072, which belong to the NAC transcription factor family. The NAC proteins bound specifically to the CATGTG motif both in vitro and in vivo and activated the transcription of a β-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene driven by the 63-bp region containing the CATGTG motif in Arabidopsis T87 protoplasts. The expression of ANAC019, ANAC055, and ANAC072 was induced by drought, high salinity, and abscisic acid. A histochemical assay using PNAC-GUS fusion constructs showed that expression of the GUS reporter gene was localized mainly to the leaves of transgenic Arabidopsis plants. Using the yeast one-hybrid system, we determined the complete NAC recognition sequence, containing CATGT and harboring CACG as the core DNA binding site. Microarray analysis of transgenic plants overexpressing either ANAC019, ANAC055, or ANAC072 revealed that several stress-inducible genes were upregulated in the transgenic plants, and the plants showed significantly increased drought tolerance. However, erd1 was not upregulated in the transgenic plants. Other interacting factors may be necessary for the induction of erd1 in Arabidopsis under stress conditions.
The SHINE Clade of AP2 Domain Transcription Factors Activates Wax Biosynthesis, Alters Cuticle Properties, and Confers Drought Tolerance when Overexpressed in Arabidopsis[W]
Authors: Aharoni Asaph , Dixit Shital , Jetter Reinhard , Thoenes Eveline , van Arkel Gert , Pereira Andy
Published: September 2004

The interface between plants and the environment plays a dual role as a protective barrier as well as a medium for the exchange of gases, water, and nutrients. The primary aerial plant surfaces are covered by a cuticle, acting as the essential permeability barrier toward the atmosphere. It is a heterogeneous layer composed mainly of lipids, namely cutin and intracuticular wax with epicuticular waxes deposited on the surface. We identified an Arabidopsis thaliana activation tag gain-of-function mutant shine (shn) that displayed a brilliant, shiny green leaf surface with increased cuticular wax compared with the leaves of wild-type plants. The gene responsible for the phenotype encodes one member of a clade of three proteins of undisclosed function, belonging to the plant-specific family of AP2/EREBP transcription factors. Overexpression of all three SHN clade genes conferred a phenotype similar to that of the original shn mutant. Biochemically, such plants were altered in wax composition (very long fatty acid derivatives). Total cuticular wax levels were increased sixfold in shn compared with the wild type, mainly because of a ninefold increase in alkanes that comprised approximately half of the total waxes in the mutant. Chlorophyll leaching assays and fresh weight loss experiments indicated that overexpression of the SHN genes increased cuticle permeability, probably because of changes in its ultrastructure. Likewise, SHN gene overexpression altered leaf and petal epidermal cell structure, trichome number, and branching as well as the stomatal index. Interestingly, SHN overexpressors displayed significant drought tolerance and recovery, probably related to the reduced stomatal density. Expression analysis using promoter-β-glucuronidase fusions of the SHN genes provides evidence for the role of the SHN clade in plant protective layers, such as those formed during abscission, dehiscence, wounding, tissue strengthening, and the cuticle. We propose that these diverse functions are mediated by regulating metabolism of lipid and/or cell wall components.
From Endonucleases to Transcription Factors: Evolution of the AP2 DNA Binding Domain in Plants[W]
Authors: Magnani Enrico , Sjölander Kimmen , Hake Sarah
Published: September 2004

All members of the AP2/ERF family of plant transcription regulators contain at least one copy of a DNA binding domain called the AP2 domain. The AP2 domain has been considered plant specific. Here, we show that homologs are present in the cyanobacterium Trichodesmium erythraeum, the ciliate Tetrahymena thermophila, and the viruses Enterobacteria phage Rb49 and Bacteriophage Felix 01. We demonstrate that the T. erythraeum AP2 domain selectively binds stretches of poly(dG)/poly(dC) showing functional conservation with plant AP2/ERF proteins. The newly discovered nonplant proteins bearing an AP2 domain are predicted to be HNH endonucleases. Sequence conservation extends outside the AP2 domain to include part of the endonuclease domain for the T. erythraeum protein and some plant AP2/ERF proteins. Our phylogenetic analysis of the broader family of AP2 domains supports the possibility of lateral gene transfer. We hypothesize that a horizontal transfer of an HNH-AP2 endonuclease from bacteria or viruses into plants may have led to the origin of the AP2/ERF family of transcription factors via transposition and homing processes.
Susceptibility of mosquito and tick cell lines to infection with various flaviviruses
Authors: Lawrie C. H. , Uzcátegui N. Y. , Armesto M. , Bell‐Sakyi L. , Gould E. A.
Published: September 2004

Abstract. The genusFlavivirusconsists of more than 70 virus species and subtypes, the majority of which are transmitted by mosquitoes or ticks, although some have no known vector (NKV). The ability of these viruses to infect cultured cells derived from mosquito or tick species offers a useful insight into the suitability of such vectors to harbour and replicate particular viruses. We undertook a comparative study of the susceptibility of mammalian Vero cells, a clonal mosquito cell line (C6/36) and recently developed cell lines derived from the ticks (Acari: Ixodidae)Ixodes ricinus(L.) (IRE/CTVM18),I.scapularis(Say) (ISE6),Rhipicephalus appendiculatus(Neumann) (RAE/CTVM1) andAmblyomma variegatum(Fabricius) (AVL/CTVM17) to infection with 13 flaviviruses (and one alphavirus) using immunofluorescence microscopy and plaque assay techniques. The C6/36 mosquito cell line was infected by all the mosquito‐borne flaviviruses tested but not by NKV viruses or tick‐borne viruses, with the exception of Langat virus (LGTV). The tick cell lines were susceptible to infection by all of the tick‐borne viruses tested, as well as two mosquito‐borne viruses, West Nile virus (WNV) and the alphavirus, Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV), but not other mosquito‐borne viruses or NKV viruses.
Infestation of the human intestine by the millipede, Nopoiulus kochii
Authors: Ertek M. , Aslan I. , Yazgi H. , Torun H. C. , Ayyildiz A. , Tasyaran M. A.
Published: September 2004

Abstract.  Specimens of the millipede, Nopoiulus kochii (Gervais) were seen in faeces and vomit of a 14‐year‐old boy residing in Oltu, Erzurum, Turkey. The patient complained of a burning sensation in his throat and stomach‐ache. Physical examination revealed no pathological findings, and how the patient became infected was unknown. Anti‐parasitic drugs (niclosamide, albendazole), which he had been taking intermittently for 2 years by the prescription of a physician, had not resolved the problem.
Mitochondrial diversity analysis of Glossina palpalis gambiensis from Mali and Senegal
Authors: Marquez J. G. , Vreysen M. J. B. , Robinson A. S. , Bado S. , Krafsur E. S.
Published: September 2004

Abstract.  West African riverine tsetse populations of Glossina palpalis gambiensis Vanderplank (Diptera: Glossinidae) were investigated for gene flow, inferred from mitochondrial diversity in samples of 69 flies from Senegal and 303 flies from three river drainages in Mali. Four polymorphic mitochondrial loci were scored. Mean haplotype diversities were 0.30 in Mali, 0 in Senegal and 0.18 over both Mali and Senegal. These diversities estimate the probabilities that two randomly chosen tsetse have different haplotypes. Substantial rates of gene flow were detected among flies sampled along tributaries belonging to the river basins of the Senegal, Niger, and Bani in Mali. There was virtually no gene flow between tsetse in Senegal and Mali. No seasonal effects on gene flow were detected. The implications of these preliminary findings for the implementation of area‐wide integrated pest management (AW‐IPM) programmes against riverine tsetse in West Africa are discussed.
Flavivirus isolations from mosquitoes collected from Saibai Island in the Torres Strait, Australia, during an incursion of Japanese encephalitis virus
Authors: Johansen C. A. , Nisbet D. J. , Foley P. N. , Van Den Hurk A. F. , Hall R. A. , Mackenzie J. S. , Ritchie S. A.
Published: September 2004

Abstract.  Adult mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) were collected in January and February 2000 from Saibai Island in the Torres Strait of northern Australia, and processed for arbovirus isolation during a period of Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus activity on nearby Badu Island. A total of 84 210 mosquitoes were processed for virus isolation, yielding six flavivirus isolates. Viruses obtained were single isolates of JE and Kokobera (KOK) and four of Kunjin (KUN). All virus isolates were from members of the Culex sitiens Weidemann subgroup, which comprised 53.1% of mosquitoes processed. Nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the pre‐membrane region of the genome of JE isolate TS5313 indicated that it was closely related to other isolates from a sentinel pig and a pool of Cx. gelidus Theobald from Badu Island during the same period. Also molecular analyses of part of the envelope gene of KUN virus isolates showed that they were closely related to other KUN virus strains from Cape York Peninsula. The results indicate that flaviviruses are dynamic in the area, and suggest patterns of movement south from New Guinea and north from the Australian mainland.
Responses to the spiritual needs of older people
Authors: Narayanasamy Aru , Clissett Philip , Parumal Logan , Thompson Deborah , Annasamy Sam , Edge Richard
Published: September 2004

Background.  The literature suggests that the notion of holistic health has gained popularity in the nursing of older persons. Holistic care, based on the premises that there is a balance between body, mind and spirit, is important for well‐being, that each of these is interconnected, and that each affects the others. Human spirit is considered to be the essence of being and is what motivates and guides us to live a meaningful existence. However, there is little evidence in the nursing literature about how nurses caring for older people respond to their spiritual needs.

Aim.  The aim of this paper is to report a critical incident study to: (1) explore nurses’ perceptions of their role in addressing the spiritual needs of older people; (2) describe what constitutes spiritual care of old people in the light of the findings.

Methods.  Descriptions of critical incidents were obtained from a convenience sample of 52 nurses working in the East Midlands Region of the United Kingdom (UK) and subjected to content analysis and construction of a data classification system.

Findings.  Respondents were prompted to identify patients’ spiritual needs by factors such as religious beliefs and practice (prayer); absolution; seeking connectedness, comfort and reassurance, healing or searching for meaning and purpose. The interventions initiated to meet patients’ spiritual needs included respect for privacy; helping patients to connect; helping patients to complete unfinished business; listening to patients’ concerns; comforting and reassuring; using personal religious beliefs to assist patients and observation of religious beliefs and practices.

Conclusion.  The findings provide empirical evidence of some practices related to spiritual care of older people. Further empirical research is needed to guide practice and education with regard to conceptual clarity and the delivery of spiritual care of older people.
Coping strategies used by the relatives of people with obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Stengler‐Wenzke Katarina , Trosbach Johanna , Dietrich Sandra , Angermeyer Matthias C.
Published: September 2004

Background.  Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is a destructive mental illness that alters the lives of both patients and their relatives. Many investigations have described the coping strategies of relatives of patients with schizophrenia, depression and other psychiatric disorders, but there have been no studies reported about coping strategies and OCD.

Aim.  The aim of this paper is to report an investigation into experiences of burden in relatives of patients with OCD, and the coping strategies they had developed.

Method.  Narrative interviews with 22 family members of patients with OCD were analysed using a grounded theory approach.

Findings.  Relatives described different burdens and developed different strategies to cope with these. While parents tried to educate their ill children, spouses focused on the patient's resources. The attempts of family members to cope with patients with OCD included assisting in rituals, opposing the symptoms and supporting patients in dealing with the illness.

Conclusion.  Implications for clinical practice to support these relatives are discussed.
A concept analysis of dignity for older adults
Authors: Jacelon Cynthia S. , Connelly Thomas W. , Brown Rana , Proulx Kathy , Vo Thuy
Published: September 2004

Background.  Human dignity is an essential value of professional nursing education as well as a component of the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics. Nurses are exhorted to treat patients with dignity, and older adults want to be treated with dignity and die with dignity. Although dignity, particularly the dignity of older adults, is often discussed in the health care literature, its meaning is not always clear.

Aim.  The aim of this paper is to describe a concept analysis to develop a definition of dignity in older adults.

Methods.  Data were collected using a literature review and five focus groups composed of older adults. The literature provided data about professionals’ ideas of dignity and the focus groups provided qualitative data about the nature of dignity in older people. The literature review and focus groups were carried out concurrently, followed by synthesis of the findings.

Findings.  Dignity is an inherent characteristic of being human, it can be subjectively felt as an attribute of the self, and is made manifest through behaviour that demonstrates respect for self and others. Dignity must be learned, and an individual's dignity is affected by the treatment received from others.

Conclusions.  A behavioural definition of dignity was constructed and this could provide the theoretical basis for nurses to develop interventions that foster dignity for older people.
The development of evidence‐based nursing interventions: methodological considerations
Authors: van Meijel B. , Gamel C. , van Swieten‐Duijfjes B. , Grypdonck M.H.F.
Published: September 2004

Background.  The call for evidence‐based practice presents numerous challenges to nurses who are responsible for developing interventions and expanding the associated knowledge base. The challenge is compounded because there is limited literature concerning development of interventions and their evidence base.

Aim.  The purpose of this article is to present a model that has been successfully used to guide the process of developing and testing complex nursing interventions, especially those in which the experience of the client plays an important role.

Discussion.  The model consists of four stages: problem definition, accumulation of building blocks for intervention design, intervention design and intervention validation. Each stage is described and examples from research studies are presented. Specific attention is given to the manner in which the model allows for the accumulation of empirical evidence and theory development during the development process.

Conclusions.  Use of the model could facilitate effective communication among nurses, researchers and educators when discussing the development and testing of nursing interventions.
Aromatherapy practice in nursing: literature review
Authors: Maddocks‐Jennings Wendy , Wilkinson Jenny M.
Published: September 2004

Background. The use of aromatherapy in nursing care continues to be popular in many settings. Most of the nursing literature relates to the use of essential oils in low doses for massage or use of the oils as environmental fragrances. Information from the wider literature may add to the evidence base for use of this therapy in nursing.

Aim. This paper reports a literature relating to the use of aromatherapy by nurses and critically evaluates the evidence to support this practice.

Method. Medline, CINAHL, MANTIS and EBSCO Host databases were searched for papers related to use of essential oils and/or aromatherapy. Papers were also obtained through cross‐checking of reference lists. A total of 165 articles have been included in this review. Nursing papers were published since 1990 were included, but some references from 1971 onwards relating to scientific research conducted on essential oils were also included. These remain valuable as they are probably the only reference available for a specific oil or property, or show the development of knowledge in this area. Papers were excluded if they consisted only of brief case studies presented in abstract form. The review covers key professional issues and the principal areas of clinical practice where aromatherapy is used.

Findings. Despite calls for more research in the 1980s and 1990s, there is still little empirical evidence to support the use of aromatherapy in nursing practice beyond enhancing relaxation. Its popularity needs to be balanced against the potential risks related to allergies, safety and inappropriate use by inexperienced users.

Conclusions. There is great potential for more collaborative research by nurses to explore the clinical applications in greater detail and to move beyond the low dose paradigm of application of essential oils.
Rck1 and Rck2 MAPKAP kinases and the HOG pathway are required for oxidative stress resistance
Authors: Bilsland Elizabeth , Molin Claes , Swaminathan Swarna , Ramne Anna , Sunnerhagen Per
Published: September 2004

We demonstrate a role in oxidative and metal stress resistance for the MAPK‐activated protein kinases Rck1 and Rck2 inSaccharomyces cerevisiae. We show that Hog1 is robustly phosphorylated in a Pbs2‐dependent way during oxidative stress, and that Rck2 also is phosphorylated under these circumstances. Hog1 concentrates in the nucleus in oxidative stress. Hog1 localization is partially dependent on Rck2, asrck2cells have more nuclear Hog1 than wild‐type cells. We find several proteins with a role in oxidative stress resistance using Rck1 or Rck2 as baits in a two‐hybrid screen. We identify the transcription factor Yap2 as a putative target for Rck1, and the Zn2+transporter Zrc1 as a target for Rck2. Yap2 is normally cytoplasmic, but rapidly migrates to the nucleus upon exposure to oxidative stress agents. In a fraction of untreatedpbs2cells, Yap2 is nuclear. Zrc1 co‐immunoprecipitates with Rck2, andZRC1is genetically downstream ofRCK2. These data connect activation of the Hog1 MAPK cascade with effectors having a role in oxidative stress resistance.
Identification of a gene required for the formation of lyso‐ornithine lipid, an intermediate in the biosynthesis of ornithine‐containing lipids
Authors: Gao Jun‐Lian , Weissenmayer Barbara , Taylor Adrian M. , Thomas‐Oates Jane , López‐Lara Isabel M. , Geiger Otto
Published: September 2004

Under phosphate‐limiting conditions, some bacteria replace their membrane phospholipids by lipids not containing any phosphorus. One of these phosphorus‐free lipids is an ornithine‐containing lipid (OL) that is widespread among eubacteria. In earlier work, we had identified a gene (olsA) required for OL biosynthesis that probably encodes an O‐acyltransferase using acyl‐acyl carrier protein (acyl‐AcpP) as an acyl donor and that converts lyso‐ornithine lipid into OL. We now report on a second gene (olsB) required for OL biosynthesis that is needed for the incorporation of radiolabelled ornithine into OL. Overexpression of OlsB in an olsA‐deficient mutant of Sinorhizobium (Rhizobium) meliloti leads to the transient accumulation of lyso‐ornithine lipid, the biosynthetic intermediate of OL biosynthesis. Overexpression of OlsB in Escherichia coli is sufficient to cause the in vivo formation of lyso‐ornithine lipid in this organism and is the cause for a 3‐hydroxyacyl‐AcpP‐dependent acyltransferase activity forming lyso‐ornithine lipid from ornithine. These results demonstrate that OlsB is required for the first step of OL biosynthesis, in which ornithine is N‐acylated with a 3‐hydroxy‐fatty acyl residue in order to obtain lyso‐ornithine lipid. OL formation in a wild‐type S. meliloti is increased upon growth under phosphate‐limiting conditions. Expression of OlsB from a broad host range vector leads to the constitutive formation of relatively high amounts of OL (12–14% of total membrane lipids) independently of whether strains are grown in the presence of low or high concentrations of phosphate, suggesting that in S. meliloti the formation of OlsB is usually limiting for the amount of OL formed in this organism. Open reading frames homologous to OlsA and OlsB were identified in many eubacteria and although in S. meliloti the olsB and olsA gene are 14 kb apart, in numerous other bacteria they form an operon.