bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Olleya marilimosa gen. nov., sp. nov., an exopolysaccharide-producing marine bacterium from the family Flavobacteriaceae, isolated from the Southern Ocean
Authors: Nichols Carol Mancuso , Bowman John P. , Guezennec Jean
Published: July 2005

A Gram-negative, aerobic, gliding, orange–yellow marine bacterium was isolated from particulate material sampled from the Southern Ocean. This strain produced an exopolysaccharide in liquid culture. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that this isolate was a member of the family Flavobacteriaceae, but represented a separate lineage. Major whole-cell fatty acids included i15 : 1ω10c, i15 : 0, β-OH i15 : 0, a15 : 1ω10c, 15 : 0 and α-OH i15 : 0. The G+C content of the DNA was 49 mol%. Based on phylogenetic, phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and genotypic analyses, this bacterium was placed in a novel taxon as Olleya marilimosa gen. nov., sp. nov. with type strain CAM030T (=ACAM 1065T=CIP 108537T).
Laser Photoacoustic Detection Allows in Planta Detection of Nitric Oxide in Tobacco following Challenge with Avirulent and Virulent Pseudomonas syringae Pathovars
Authors: Mur Luis A.J. , Santosa I. Edi , Laarhoven Lucas J.J. , Holton Nicholas J. , Harren Frans J.M. , Smith Aileen R.
Published: July 2005

We demonstrate the use of laser photoacoustic detection (LPAD) as a highly sensitive method to detect in planta nitric oxide (.NO) production from tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum). LPAD calibration against .NO gas demonstrated a linear relationship over 2 orders of magnitude with a detection threshold of <20 pmol h−1 (1 part per billion volume [ppbv]). The specificity of the photoacoustic signal for .NO when adding gas or the .NO donor, sodium nitroprusside, on injection into plant leaves, was demonstrated by its abolition with O3 (.NO + O3 → NO2 + O2). The utility of the LPAD method was shown by examination of a nonhost hypersensitive response and a disease induced by Pseudomonas syringae (P. s.) pv phaseolicola and P. s. pv tabaci in tobacco. .NO was detected within 40 min of challenge with P. s. pv phaseolicola, some 5 h before the initiation of visible tissue collapse. The wildfire tobacco pathogen P. s. pv tabaci initiated .NO generation at 2 h postinfection. The use of .NO donors, the scavenger CPTIO ([4-carboxyphenyl]-4,5-dihydro-4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-3-oxide), and the mammalian nitric oxide synthase inhibitor l-NMMA (N  G-monomethyl-l-arginine) indicated that .NO influenced the kinetics of cell death and resistance to both avirulent and virulent bacteria in tobacco. These observations suggest that .NO is integral to the elicitation of cell death associated with these two bacterial pathogens in tobacco.
The SOL Genomics Network. A Comparative Resource for Solanaceae Biology and Beyond
Authors: Mueller Lukas A. , Solow Teri H. , Taylor Nicolas , Skwarecki Beth , Buels Robert , Binns John , Lin Chenwei , Wright Mark H. , Ahrens Robert , Wang Ying , Herbst Evan V. , Keyder Emil R. , Menda Naama , Zamir Dani , Tanksley Steven D.
Published: July 2005

The SOL Genomics Network (SGN; http://sgn.cornell.edu) is a rapidly evolving comparative resource for the plants of the Solanaceae family, which includes important crop and model plants such as potato (Solanum tuberosum), eggplant (Solanum melongena), pepper (Capsicum annuum), and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). The aim of SGN is to relate these species to one another using a comparative genomics approach and to tie them to the other dicots through the fully sequenced genome of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). SGN currently houses map and marker data for Solanaceae species, a large expressed sequence tag collection with computationally derived unigene sets, an extensive database of phenotypic information for a mutagenized tomato population, and associated tools such as real-time quantitative trait loci. Recently, the International Solanaceae Project (SOL) was formed as an umbrella organization for Solanaceae research in over 30 countries to address important questions in plant biology. The first cornerstone of the SOL project is the sequencing of the entire euchromatic portion of the tomato genome. SGN is collaborating with other bioinformatics centers in building the bioinformatics infrastructure for the tomato sequencing project and implementing the bioinformatics strategy of the larger SOL project. The overarching goal of SGN is to make information available in an intuitive comparative format, thereby facilitating a systems approach to investigations into the basis of adaptation and phenotypic diversity in the Solanaceae family, other species in the Asterid clade such as coffee (Coffea arabica), Rubiaciae, and beyond.
Long‐term efficacy of Burch colposuspension: a 14‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Kjølhede Preben
Published: July 2005

Background.  The aim of this study is to investigate the long‐term efficacy of the Burch colposuspension and to analyze the risk factors for an unsuccessful outcome at the long‐term follow‐up of more than 10 years.

Methods.  Data from patient files of 190 women on whom surgery was performed with Burch colposuspension during 1980–1988 and answers from a postal questionnaire performed median 14 years after the Burch colposuspension concerning the lower urinary tract function were retrieved retrospectively.

Results.  Subjectively significant urinary incontinence was experienced by 56% of the responders. Only 19% reported no incontinence episodes. Among the significant urinary incontinent women, symptoms of stress incontinence occurred in 26%, urge incontinence in 17%, and mixed incontinence in 42%. In 15%, the symptom of incontinence was atypical and could not be categorized. Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying post‐operatively and pre‐operative obesity was associated with the long‐term outcome of Burch colposuspension (odds ratio (OR) = 2.33; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 1.20–4.54 and OR = 2.52; 95% CI = 1.10–5.77, respectively). Age, obesity at the long‐term follow‐up or having had surgery for fecal incontinence, genital prolapse, or hysterectomy were not significantly associated with the outcome of the Burch colposuspension.

Conclusions.  The subjective cure rate decreases with time after Burch colposuspension. Lower urinary tract symptoms are very common at the long‐term after Burch colposuspension with more than three‐fourth experiencing these. Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying post‐operatively and pre‐operative obesity seem to be long‐term risk factors for an adverse outcome. A standard definition for follow‐up periods is suggested.
A meta‐analysis of upright positions in the second stage to reduce instrumental deliveries in women with epidural analgesia
Authors: Roberts Christine L. , Algert Charles S. , Cameron Carolyn A. , Torvaldsen Siranda
Published: July 2005

Background.  Epidural analgesia is associated with an increased risk of instrumental delivery. We, in this study, present a systematic review in order to assess the effectiveness of maintaining an upright position during the second stage of labor to reduce instrumental deliveries among women choosing epidural analgesia. The study population included women with uncomplicated pregnancies at term with epidural analgesia established in the first stage of labor.

Methods.  We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases and the Cochrane Trials Register up to July 2003 and cross‐checked the reference lists of published studies. Trial eligibility and outcomes were pre‐specified. Group tabular data were obtained for each trial and were analyzed by using meta‐analytic techniques.

Results.  Only two studies were included with data on 281 women (166 upright and 115 recumbent). Upright positions in the second stage were associated with a non‐significant reduction in the risk of both instrumental delivery (relative risk (RR) = 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.46–1.28) and cesarean section (RR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.28–1.16). Both studies reported a statistically significant reduction in labor duration associated with upright positions. Data on other outcomes, including perineal trauma, postpartum hemorrhage, maternal satisfaction, and infant well‐being, were insufficient.

Conclusions.  There were insufficient data to show a significant benefit from upright positions in the second stage of labor for women who choose epidural or to evaluate safety aspects. However the magnitude of the reductions in instrumental delivery and cesarean section warrants an adequately powered randomized, controlled trial to fully evaluate the practice of upright positions in the second stage for women with an epidural.
Proton‐pump inhibitor use by coronary artery disease patients is associated with fewer chest pain episodes, emergency department visits and hospitalizations
Authors: LIUZZO J. P. , AMBROSE J. A. , DIGGS P.
Published: July 2005

Background:  Patients with coronary artery disease presenting to an emergency department with chest pain are likely to undergo hospitalization in an attempt to elucidate its aetiology.

Aim:  To examine whether coronary artery disease patients receiving proton‐pump inhibitor therapy are associated with fewer chest pain events and evaluations.

Methods:  A veteran patient population with documented coronary artery disease was identified, and chest pain episodes, emergency department visits and hospitalizations for chest pain were followed over 2 years. Patient outcomes between proton‐pump inhibitor use and non‐use of proton‐pump inhibitor therapy were compared.

Results:  In 415 male patients, 23% utilized a proton‐pump inhibitor and 77% did not. Proton‐pump inhibitor therapy was associated with fewer chest pain episodes (12% vs. 26%, P = 0.002), emergency department visits, (12% vs. 24%, P = 0.044) and hospitalizations (13% vs. 24%, P = 0.086). The incidence of adverse events was decreased in the proton‐pump inhibitor group: 70% fewer chest pain episodes (P = 0.002, RR = 3.3), 55% fewer emergency department visits (P = 0.049, RR = 2.2) and 53% fewer hospitalizations (P = 0.064, RR = 2.1). By multivariate analysis, proton‐pump inhibitor therapy independently predicted a reduced prevalence of patients experiencing chest pain, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations [OR = 0.09 (0.04–0.21); 0.15 (0.06–0.40); 0.14 (0.05–0.40); all P < 0.001].

Conclusions:  Proton‐pump inhibitor therapy for veteran coronary artery disease patients is associated with fewer chest pain episodes, emergency department visits and hospitalizations for chest pain.
Histamine receptor antagonists and incident colorectal adenomas
Authors: ROBERTSON D. J. , BURKE C. A. , SCHWENDER B. J. , WARGOVICH M. J. , GREENBERG E. R. , SANDLER R. S. , AHNEN D. J. , ROTHSTEIN R. , MOTT L. A. , BARON J. A.
Published: July 2005

Background:  Prior studies suggest that histamines may modulate the development of colorectal neoplasia.

Aim:  To assess whether histamine receptor antagonist use was associated with adenoma formation.

Methods:  Patients (n = 2366) were drawn from three adenoma chemoprevention trials. All underwent baseline colonoscopy with removal of adenoma(s) and were deemed free of remaining lesions; they were followed with surveillance colonoscopy. Medication use was assessed by questionnaire. Adjusted risk ratios for adenoma formation related to histamine receptor antagonist use (histamine H1 and H2 receptor, H1RA and H2RA) were determined using log linear models.

Results:  In pooled analyses, H1RA exposure was not associated with subsequent adenoma risk (RR = 1.10; 95% CI 0.97–1.25) or multiple adenoma formation (RR = 0.85; 95% CI 0.67–1.07). H2RA use also was not associated with adenoma (RR = 0.90; 95% CI 0.77–1.06), or multiple adenoma (RR = 0.77; 95% CI 0.57–1.04) in the pooled analyses, but H2RA users in the first trial had a decreased risk of adenoma (RR = 0.70; 95% CI 0.48–1.03) and multiple adenoma (RR = 0.31; 95% CI 0.12–0.79).

Conclusion:  H2RA use was associated with reduced risk for adenoma in one trial, but not in the pooled analyses. Further study would be warranted before undertaking randomized trials of H2RAs for adenoma chemoprevention.
A comparison of esomeprazole and lansoprazole for control of intragastric pH in patients with symptoms of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease
Authors: JOHNSON D. A. , STACY T. , RYAN M. , WOOTTON T. , WILLIS J. , HORNBUCKLE K. , BROOKS W. , DOVIAK M.
Published: July 2005

Background:  Intragastric acid suppression is the most direct measure of the pharmacodynamic efficacy of proton pump inhibitors, which are the most effective drugs for acid‐related diseases.

Aim:  To compare the effectiveness of once and twice daily dosing of lansoprazole and esomeprazole in controlling intragastric acidity (target gastric pH > 4.0) over a 24‐hour period.

Methods:  In an open‐label, two‐way crossover study, 45 Helicobacter pylori‐negative patients with gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease were randomized to receive one of two regimens: 30 mg lansoprazole or esomeprazole 40 mg once daily. Intragastric pH was assessed by 24‐hour pH monitoring on day 5 of each regimen. Dosing was increased to twice daily and pH was reassessed on day 10. Following a 14‐day washout, patients were crossed over to the other medication and the dosage regimens and pH assessments were repeated.

Results:  Data were analysed from 35 patients who completed all scheduled assessments and had 24‐hour monitoring for each end‐point. Mean time pH > 4.0 and mean 24‐hour pH were highest for esomeprazole 40 mg twice daily, followed by lansoprazole 30 mg twice daily, esomeprazole 40 mg once daily and lansoprazole 30 mg once daily. Esomeprazole 40 mg twice daily provided superior control of intragastric pH compared with either once or twice daily dosing of lansoprazole and once daily dosing of esomeprazole (P < 0.01). Esomeprazole 40 mg once daily was comparable with lansoprazole 30 mg twice daily and both were superior to lansoprazole 30 mg once daily (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:  Response to acid suppression treatment depends on the treatment selected. Esomeprazole 40 mg twice daily provided better control of intragastric pH than all other regimens evaluated. Esomeprazole 40 mg daily, however, was comparable with lansoprazole 30 mg twice daily and superior to lansoprazole 30 mg once daily.
Can activated recombinant factor VII be used to postpone the exposure of infants to factor VIII until after 2 years of age?
Authors: Rivard G. E. , Lillicrap D. , Poon M. C. , Demers C. , Lépine M. , St‐Louis J. , Warner M.
Published: July 2005

Summary.  Two retrospective studies have suggested that exposure to factor VIII (FVIII) in early infancy is associated with an increased risk of FVIII inhibitor development. We prospectively studied 11 infants who needed replacement therapy for bleeding episodes before the age of 2 years. They received activated recombinant factor VII (rFVIIa) concentrate on demand, with the intention of postponing their first exposure to FVIII after 2 years of age. Thirty‐three bleeding episodes were treated with 154 doses of rFVIIa with no evidence of adverse effect. Bleeding was controlled in 27 of 33 episodes. Mouth bleeds were most difficult to treat. The use of rFVIIa allowed postponement of the use of FVIII for a mean of 5.5 months (median 4, range 0–12) but in only three of 11 children could be the first exposure to factor postponed after the age of 2 years. With this modest effect of rFVIIa in postponing the first exposure to FVIII, more convincing evidence for the benefit of such a postponement will have to be demonstrated before rFVIIa could be recommended for this indication.
In vitro evaluation of B‐domain deleted recombinant factor VIII (ReFacto®) stability during simulated continuous infusion administration
Authors: Neidhardt E. , Koval R. , Burke E. , Warne N.
Published: July 2005

Summary.  The administration of factor VIII (FVIII) by continuous infusion (CI) to manage severe haemorrhage or during major surgery appears pharmacokinetically and economically favourable when compared with intermittent bolus infusions. Successful clinical use of FVIII delivered by CI, however, requires a thorough assessment of product stability under conditions encountered during CI such as prolonged exposure to the delivery devices at ambient temperature and the low FVIII concentrations. This investigation has identified conditions under which ReFacto®, a recombinant human B‐domain deleted FVIII, can be successfully delivered under dilute conditions when using large volume parenteral polyvinyl chloride (PVC) bags without the addition of stabilizers or as an undiluted preparation delivered by ambulatory infusion pumps. ReFacto® is stable for 36 h when stored in large volume parenteral PVC reservoirs at 3 and 8 IU mL−1 or 72 h when delivered undiluted at 62 IU mL−1 by CADD® infusion pumps. The greatest concern with the delivery of ReFacto® by CI is adsorptive losses to the contact surfaces of the delivery system. There was no significant binding of ReFacto to the PVC reservoirs overtime; however, there was appreciable binding to the administration set under certain conditions. The binding was influenced by the ionic strength of the solution, residence time in the tubing and protein concentration. The recovery and stability profile of ReFacto® under certain conditions appears favourable when compared with that of full‐length recombinant FVIII products, observed by other investigators.
Treatment of intracranial and extracranial haemorrhages in a neonate with severe haemophilia B with recombinant factor IX infusion
Authors: Guilcher G. M. T. , Scully M.‐F. , Harvey M. , Hand J. P.
Published: July 2005

Summary.  Intracranial (ICH) and extracranial (ECH) haemorrhages are potentially life‐threatening events that may occur comorbidly in neonates with haemophilia. There is little data on the use of recombinant factor IX (rFIX; BeneFIX®) in the neonate. Children <15 years of age are known to require higher doses of recombinant Factor IX (FIX) than older persons, which raises specific concerns in the neonate due to the increased risk of thrombosis in this age group (Thromb Haemost 2002; 87: 431). This report describes a case in which a high rate of continuous infusion of recombinant FIX was used to treat a newborn with significant intracranial and subgaleal haemorrhages. A high rate of infusion maintained at 30–35 U kg−1 h−1 was necessary to maintain adequate FIX levels. Despite the high rate of continuous infusion, no adverse events were noted. Our patient had a rare genetic mutation causing severe haemophilia B. A neonate with severe haemophilia B was treated successfully with recombinant FIX through continuous infusion. A high rate of infusion was required and no complications were noted.
More than menorrhagia: a review of the obstetric and gynaecological manifestations of bleeding disorders
Authors: James A. H.
Published: July 2005

Summary. In women, menorrhagia may be the most common manifestation of a bleeding disorder, but it is not the only reproductive tract abnormality that women with bleeding disorders experience. Women with bleeding disorders appear to be at an increased risk of developing haemorrhagic ovarian cysts and possibly endometriosis. As they grow older, they may be more likely to manifest conditions, which present with bleeding such as fibroids, endometrial hyperplasia and polyps. Women with bleeding disorders are more likely to undergo a hysterectomy and are more likely to have the operation at a younger age. During pregnancy, they may be at greater risk of miscarriage and bleeding complications. At the time of childbirth, women with bleeding disorders appear to be more likely to experience postpartum haemorrhage, particularly delayed or secondary postpartum haemorrhage. Vaginal or vulvar haematomas, extremely rare in women without bleeding disorders, are not uncommon. While women with bleeding disorders are at risk for the same obstetrical and gynaecological problems that affect all women, they appear to be disproportionately affected by conditions that manifest with bleeding.
The effect of clotting factor concentrates on the immune system in HIV‐negative haemophilics
Authors: Balkan C. , Kavakli K. , Kutukculer N. , Aksu G. , Yilmaz D. , Aydinok Y.
Published: July 2005

Summary.  Immune abnormalities have been reported in patients with haemophilia. Although infections with HIV and hepatitis viruses contribute to these abnormalities, chronic exposure to extraneous proteins in clotting factor concentrates (CFC) may also play a role. A number of studies suggest that the degree of immunological abnormalities correlates with the amount of intermediate purity CFC administered over time. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether there were cellular and humoral immunological abnormalities in haemophilics receiving intensive factor replacement therapy with intermediate purity CFC. For this purpose 48 severe haemophilics and 33 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. T and B lymphocytes, CD4+ and CD8+ cell counts, CD4/CD8 ratio, natural killer cells, active T cells were studied in prophylaxis group, on‐demand therapy group and healthy controls. In the percentages and absolute counts of lymphocyte subgroups, no significant difference was found between three groups. We also investigated serum antitetanus IgG levels in these 48 haemophilics and the controls to evaluate the specific antibody response. Antitetanus IgG levels were significantly lower in haemophilics compared to healthy controls (P < 0.001). Additionally we evaluated the response to tuberculin skin test in 45 of 48 haemophilics vaccinated with BCG. The response to PPD test was significantly lower in haemophilics compared to the controls (P = 0.037). There was no response to tuberculin test, which is the best marker of delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) reactions in 24% of haemophilics. In conclusion, although there was no significant change in the ratio of CD4/CD8 and lymphocyte subgroups, specific antibody responses and DTH tests were partially impaired in haemophilic patients receiving intermediate purity CFC.
The molecular analysis of haemophilia A: a guideline from the UK haemophilia centre doctors’ organization haemophilia genetics laboratory network
Authors: Keeney S. , Mitchell M. , Goodeve A.
Published: July 2005

Summary.  Haemophilia A is a common inherited bleeding disorder that has a well‐understood pathophysiology. Our understanding of the molecular genetics of the disease has allowed the development of comprehensive carrier and prenatal diagnosis for this single gene defect. Continuing technological developments improve our ability to provide genetic analysis in a rapid and cost effective manner. This guideline aims to provide advice on current best laboratory practice when approaching genetic diagnosis of haemophilia A.
HLA antigens as predictors of disease progression in HIV‐infected haemophilia patients (a 22 years’ follow up)
Authors: Papasteriades CHR. , Economidou J. , Pappas H. , Kapsimali V. , Psarra K. , Katsarou O. , Karafoulidou A. , Mandalaki T.
Published: July 2005

Summary.  Our objective was to assess the influence of genetic factors such as HLA classes I and II antigens and other clinical and laboratory variables on the progression of HIV disease in a cohort of 118 HIV infected haemophilic subjects of Greek origin who had been typed for HLA antigens and were followed up prospectively for 22 years since seroconversion. At the end of the follow up we compared two groups of patients: 22 patients who had a fast progression to AIDS (median 6 years since seroconversion) vs. 33 patients who remained asymptomatic in stage A2 for up to 22 years (median 15 years). The results showed that the two groups did not differ significantly in age at seroconversion or baseline CD4+ T cell count. However there was a difference in the frequencies of certain HLA antigens in the two groups. The fast progressors had a higher frequency of HLA‐A28, B21 and DR3, which was statistically significant (P = 0.02, 0.04, 0.05, respectively) compared to the slow progressors. These findings based on classical HLA typing techniques confirm other published observations and support the effect of genetic background in the progression of HIV infection in haemophilics.
Molecular analysis of the EGFR gene in astrocytic gliomas: mRNA expression, quantitative‐PCR analysis of non‐homogeneous gene amplification and DNA sequence alterations
Authors: Arjona D. , Bello M. J. , Alonso M. E. , Aminoso C. , Isla A. , De Campos J. M. , Sarasa J. L. , Gutierrez M. , Villalobo A. , Rey J. A.
Published: July 2005

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a transmembrane glycoprotein with tyrosine kinase activity. This report investigates the presence of mutations, amplification and/or over‐expression of the EGFR gene in 86 glial tumours including 44 glioblastomas, 21 anaplastic astrocytomas, and 21 WHO grade II astrocytomas, using polymerase chain reaction/single‐strand conformation polymorphism, semiquantitative reverse‐transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and Southern Blot techniques. Gene amplification values were found in 34 tumours. Amplification levels were not uniform, as the transmembrane region presented lower amplification rates than extra‐ and intracellular domains. For the 19 samples with sufficient available tumour tissue we found over‐expression in 11, and no EGFR mRNA expression in three. Ten cases showed deletion transcripts, and EGFR VIII was identified in all of these cases. One of the cases with EGFR vIII also presented a truncated form, C‐958, while another showed an in frame tandem duplication of exons 18–25. We found 14 cases with sequence/structure gene alterations, including seven on which genomic novel DNA changes were identified: a missense mutation (1052C > T/Ala265Val), an insertion (InsCCC2498/Ins Pro748), three intronic changes (E6 + 72delG, E22–14C > G and E18–109T > C), a new polymorphic variant E12 + 22A > T, and one case that presented a 190 bp insertion, that was produced by the intron‐7–exon‐8 duplication and generated a truncated EGFR with intact exons 1–8 followed by an additional amino acidic sequence: Val‐Ile‐Met‐Trp. These findings corroborate that EGFR is non‐randomly involved in malignant glioma development and that different mutant forms participate in aberrant activation of tyrosine kinase pathways.
Hyperphosphorylated tau and amyloid precursor protein deposition is increased in the brains of young drug abusers
Authors: Ramage S. N. , Anthony I. C. , Carnie F. W. , Busuttil A. , Robertson R. , Bell J. E.
Published: July 2005

Drug abuse is a major problem worldwide. The incidence of drug‐related deaths attributed to opiate abuse is increasing annually. Apart from routine examination, little is known of the neuropathology of drug abuse. We, and others, have shown previously that drug abuse is associated with microglial activation. We hypothesised that neuroinflammation might lead to premature neurodegeneration in drug abusers. We investigated the brains of young opiate abusers (n = 34, all < 40 years) for the presence of proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases and compared them with the brains of age‐matched, non‐drug users (n = 16) all of whom died suddenly. Detailed immunohistochemical analysis of the hippocampus, brainstem and basal ganglia for hyperphosphorylated tau, β‐amyloid, β‐amyloid precursor protein (βAPP) and ubiquitin demonstrated an excess of AT8‐positive neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) in the drug abusers. These were not only more prevalent in the drug abusers than in controls (44%vs. 19%) but also involved more brain areas. In controls NFT were confined to the entorhinal cortex whereas in drug users they were also found in the subiculum, temporal neocortex, nucleus basalis of Meynert and the locus coeruleus. Virtually no amyloid plaques were present but βAPP positivity was again much more common in drug abusers than controls (73%vs. 20% in the brainstem and 59%vs. 23% in the temporal lobe). There is no suggestion that these drug abusers had displayed major cognitive impairment although detailed neuropsychological assessment is difficult in this subject group. Likely causes of hyperphosphorylated tau deposition in drug abuse include hypoxic‐ischaemic injury, microglial‐associated cytokine release and possibly drug‐associated neurotoxicity or hepatitis. Head injury, which is another major risk factor, does not appear to have contributed to our findings. Genetic factors also merit consideration. It is unclear at present how much of the hyperphosphorylated tau detected in these young drug abusers represents a transitory phenomenon.
The influence of the light environment and photosynthesis on oxidative signalling responses in plant–biotrophic pathogen interactions
Authors: BECHTOLD ULRIKE , KARPINSKI STANISLAW , MULLINEAUX PHILIP M.
Published: July 2005

Plants grow in a constantly fluctuating environment, which has driven the evolution of a highly flexible metabolism and development necessary for their sessile lifestyle. In contrast to the situation in the natural world, the detailed dissection of the regulatory networks that govern plants’ responses to abiotic insults and their interaction with pathogens have been studied almost exclusively in controlled environments where a single challenge has been applied. However, the question arises of how such pathways operate when the plant is subjected to multiple stresses, especially where the expression of overlapping gene sets and common signalling molecules, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), are implicated. This review will focus on the responsiveness of leaves to their light environment and how this might influence both basal and induced resistance to infection by biotrophic pathogens. While several signalling pathways operate in a complex network of defence responses, the functioning of the salicylic acid (SA) signalling pathway will receive specific consideration. This is because information is becoming available of its role in abiotic stress responses and it dependency on light. This article covers several topics, some of which formerly have received scant attention. These include the effects of infection on photosynthetic performance and carbohydrate metabolism, the parallels between the induction of acclimation to high light and immunity to pathogens, the role of light in the functioning of the SA signalling pathway and the light sensitivity of lesion formation and the use of lesion mimic mutants and transgenic plants. Finally, a model is proposed that attempts to extrapolate these controlled environment‐based studies to the functioning of defences against pathogens in a field‐grown crop.
Assessing the future global impacts of ozone on vegetation
Authors: ASHMORE M. R.
Published: July 2005

Ozone is a major secondary air pollutant, the current concentrations of which have been shown to have significant adverse effects on crop yields, forest growth and species composition. In North America and Europe, emissions of ozone precursors are decreasing but in other regions of the world, especially Asia, where much less is known about its impacts, they are increasing rapidly. There is also evidence of an increase in global background ozone concentrations, which will lead to significant changes in global ozone exposure over this century, during which direct and indirect effects of other changes in the global atmosphere will also modify plant responses to ozone. This paper considers how far our current understanding of the mechanisms of ozone impacts, and the tools currently used for ozone risk assessment, are capable of evaluating the consequences of these changing global patterns of exposure to ozone. Risk assessment based on relationships between external concentration and plant response is inadequate for these new challenges. New models linking stomatal flux, and detoxification and repair processes, to carbon assimilation and allocation provide a more mechanistic basis for future risk assessments. However, there are a range of more complex secondary effects of ozone that are not considered in current risk assessment, and there is an urgent need to develop more holistic approaches linking the effects of ozone, climate, and nutrient and water availability, on individual plants, species interactions and ecosystem function.
Scaling ozone responses of forest trees to the ecosystem level in a changing climate
Authors: KARNOSKY D. F. , PREGITZER K. S. , ZAK D. R. , KUBISKE M. E. , HENDREY G. R. , WEINSTEIN D. , NOSAL M. , PERCY K. E.
Published: July 2005

Many uncertainties remain regarding how climate change will alter the structure and function of forest ecosystems. At the Aspen FACE experiment in northern Wisconsin, we are attempting to understand how an aspen/birch/maple forest ecosystem responds to long‐term exposure to elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) and ozone (O3), alone and in combination, from establishment onward. We examine how O3affects the flow of carbon through the ecosystem from the leaf level through to the roots and into the soil micro‐organisms in present and future atmospheric CO2conditions. We provide evidence of adverse effects of O3, with or without co‐occurring elevated CO2, that cascade through the entire ecosystem impacting complex trophic interactions and food webs on all three species in the study: trembling aspen (Populus tremuloidesMichx.), paper birch (Betula papyriferaMarsh), and sugar maple (Acer saccharumMarsh). Interestingly, the negative effect of O3on the growth of sugar maple did not become evident until 3 years into the study. The negative effect of O3effect was most noticeable on paper birch trees growing under elevated CO2. Our results demonstrate the importance of long‐term studies to detect subtle effects of atmospheric change and of the need for studies of interacting stresses whose responses could not be predicted by studies of single factors. In biologically complex forest ecosystems, effects at one scale can be very different from those at another scale. For scaling purposes, then, linking process with canopy level models is essential if O3impacts are to be accurately predicted. Finally, we describe how outputs from our long‐term multispecies Aspen FACE experiment are being used to develop simple, coupled models to estimate productivity gain/loss from changing O3.
Macronodular hepatic tuberculosis associated with portal vein thrombosis and portal hypertension
Authors: Venkatesh SK , Tan LKA , Siew EPY , Putti TC
Published: July 2005

Tuberculosis (TB) of the liver is usually associated with miliary spread. Macronodular TB of the liver is rare. A case of macronodular TB of the liver in a 31‐year‐old woman causing portal vein thrombosis and portal hypertension is presented. Ultrasound and CT appearances are described. There was coexistent ileo‐caecal TB with extensive mesenteric and retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy. Macronodular TB should be considered in the differential diagnosis when a patient presents with multiple calcified masses in the liver with portal vein thrombosis and portal hypertension.
Computed tomography diagnosis of tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica
Authors: White BD , Kong A , Khoo E , Southcott AM
Published: July 2005

Tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica (TO) is a rare benign disease characterized by the presence of osseous and cartilaginous submucosal nodules projecting into the tracheobronchial tree. Most cases are asymptomatic and discovered incidentally at post‐mortem. We identified a case of TO on thoracic spiral CT and confirmed the diagnosis on bronchoscopy. This article reviews the imaging characteristics of TO, and shows the 3‐D virtual bronchoscopic and multiplanar reconstruction appearances of TO.
Recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation mimicking post‐transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder
Authors: Ho SGF , Phillips AJ , Browne RFJ , Munk PL , Legiehn GM , Yoshida EM , Davis JE , Chung SW , Scudamore CH
Published: July 2005

Approximately 5% of patients with end‐stage cirrhosis undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation have occult hepatocellular carcinoma. Careful follow up is required to detect recurrent tumour, and knowledge of the patterns of recurrence may avoid diagnostic confusion with other malignancies, such as post‐transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder. This case report illustrates an unusual presentation of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma in a 56‐year‐old man presenting with a para‐aortic soft tissue mass, thought clinically and radiologically to represent lymphoma or post‐transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder. This case demonstrates that recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma can present late after transplantation as retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy, and should alert physicians and radiologists to be aware of the radiological appearances of recurrence and of the need for early biopsy to avoid diagnostic confusion with other malignancies.
Computed tomography manifestations of peritoneal diseases
Authors: Gordon K , Lee WK , Hennessy O
Published: July 2005

The peritoneal cavity is a potential space that is divided by the peritoneal reflections into various complex subspaces. It can be involved in many disease processes including developmental, inflammatory, neoplastic and traumatic conditions. Computed tomography is highly sensitive and consistent in detecting peritoneal pathology. This pictorial essay aims to emphasize and illustrate the CT features of the spectrum of peritoneal diseases.
Hypothesis: Biological role for J‐C intronic matrix attachment regions in the molecular mechanism of antigen‐driven somatic hypermutation
Authors: Franklin Andrew , Blanden Robert V
Published: July 2005

A major function of J‐C intronic matrix attachment regions (MAR) during immune diversification via somatic hypermutation (SHM) at immunoglobulin loci may be to manipulate the topology of DNA within the upstream target domain. The suggestion that SHM induction requires MAR‐induced torsional strain, in conjunction with DNA remodelling at the J‐C intron, completes the definition of a cogent paradigm within which all extant molecular data on the issue may be interpreted. Moreover, the suggestion that a mutagenic mechanism relieves MAR‐generated superhelicity could provide an indication as to the evolutionary basis of SHM.
Genes, pathways and checkpoints in lymphocyte development and homeostasis
Authors: Miosge Lisa A , Goodnow Christopher C
Published: July 2005

A plethora of genes involved in murine B and T cell development have been identified, and developmental pathways within the primary lymphoid tissues have been well delineated. The generation of a functional, but non‐self reacting lymphocyte repertoire results from the completion of several checkpoints during lymphocyte development and competition for survival factors in the periphery. Improved knowledge of these developmental checkpoints and homeostatic mechanisms is critical for understanding human immunodeficiency, leukaemia/lymphoma and autoimmunity, which are conditions where checkpoints and homeostasis are likely to be deregulated.
Generating spatial and nonspatial attentional control: An ERP study
Authors: Slagter Heleen A. , Kok Albert , Mol Nisan , Talsma Durk , Kenemans J. Leon
Published: July 2005

The present study used event‐related potentials and dipole source modeling to investigate dimension specificity in attentional control. Subjects performed cued attention tasks in which the task‐relevant information (a) was always the same, (b) varied between features within the same dimension, or (c) varied between features of two different dimensions. Thus, both demands on control processes involved in generating an attentional set and the dimension (color or location) of the task‐relevant feature were varied. Attentional control was associated with a dorsal posterior positivity starting at 260 ms postcue, which was stronger over left posterior scalp regions from 580 ms onward, especially when color was task relevant. This positivity likely reflects generic processes involved in the generation of an attentional set that were followed in time by dimension‐specific processes related to the persistence of the task‐relevant information in working memory.
ERPs differentiate syllable and nonphonetic sound processing in children and adults
Authors: Čeponienė R. , Alku P. , Westerfield M. , Torki M. , Townsend J.
Published: July 2005

We examined maturation of speech‐sound‐related indices of auditory event‐related brain potentials (ERPs). ERPs were elicited by syllables and nonphonetic correlates in children and adults. Compared with syllables, nonphonetic stimuli elicited larger N1 and P2 in adults and P1 in children. Because the nonphonetics were more perceptually salient, this N1 effect was consistent with known N1 sensitivity to sound onset features. Based on stimulus dependence and independent component structure, children's P1 appeared to contain overlapping P2‐like activity. In both subject groups, syllables elicited larger N2/N4 peaks. This might reflect sound content feature processing, more extensive for speech than nonspeech sounds. Therefore, sound detection mechanisms (N1, P2) still develop whereas sound content processing (N2, N4) is largely mature during mid‐childhood; in children and adults, speech sounds are processed more extensively than nonspeech sounds 200–400 ms poststimulus.
Absolute pitch and pupillary response: Effects of timbre and key color
Authors: Schlemmer Kathrin B. , Kulke Franziska , Kuchinke Lars , Van Der Meer Elke
Published: July 2005

The pitch identification performance of absolute pitch possessors has previously been shown to depend on pitch range, key color, and timbre of presented tones. In the present study, the dependence of pitch identification performance on key color and timbre of musical tones was examined by analyzing hit rates, reaction times, and pupillary responses of absolute pitch possessors (n=9) and nonpossessors (n=12) during a pitch identification task. Results revealed a significant dependence of pitch identification hit rate but not reaction time on timbre and key color in both groups. Among absolute pitch possessors, peak dilation of the pupil was significantly dependent on key color whereas the effect of timbre was marginally significant. Peak dilation of the pupil differed significantly between absolute pitch possessors and nonpossessors. The observed effects point to the importance of learning factors in the acquisition of absolute pitch.
Early Designs for the Occlusal Anatomy of Posterior Denture Teeth: Part III
Authors: Engelmeier Robert L.
Published: July 2005

Part III of this series of articles, like Part II, reviews the pioneering efforts in the 19th century to improve the quality of artificial teeth. The focus of this article, unlike that of Part II, is specifically modifications in the design of the occlusal anatomy of the 19th century denture teeth, along with the theories of mandibular movement that inspired those modifications. This article concludes the introductory phase of this project, which seeks to unravel the confusing history of the development of (posterior) denture teeth.
Using Silicone Impression Material and Acrylic Resin to Fabricate Remount Casts for Removable Partial Dentures
Authors: Hsu Yung‐tsung , Farmer John B.
Published: July 2005

A technique is described for fabrication of a remount cast for a removable partial denture. This procedure consists of filling the occlusal/incisal third with acrylic resin and injecting polyvinylsiloxane impression material into the irreversible hydrocolloid impression. This technique provides a simple method for making a remount cast and enables the clinician to remove and easily place the partial denture on the cast during occlusal refinement procedures without damage to the removable partial denture or the remount cast.
Period between Completion of Radiation Therapy and Prosthetic Rehabilitation in Edentulous Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Gerngross Peter J. , Martin Charles D. , Ball John D. , Engelmeier Robert L. , Gilbert Harry D. , Powers John M. , Narendran Sena , Chambers Mark S.
Published: July 2005

Purpose:
The primary purposes of this study were: (1) to describe the number and types of complications patients had before and after insertion of a removable prosthesis (i.e., denture) following radiation therapy to the head and neck and (2) to investigate whether the time between radiation therapy and denture insertion might contribute to those complications.

Materials and Methods:
This research evaluated edentulous patients and those who were rendered edentulous as a result of their cancer treatment. After obtaining institutional approval following HIPAA regulations, a total of 349 charts were identified: 152 patients from Houston Veterans Administration Medical Center (HVAMC) and 197 patients from M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC). A total of 190 patients met the inclusion criteria with data available for review.

Results:
No significant differences were found in any of the comparisons made, except when comparing complications that occurred after the dentures were inserted and the amount of time it took for prosthetic rehabilitation. The majority of patients had no complications. The patients who received their dentures in 180 days or less had the same number of complications when compared with those patients who received their dentures in 181 to 365 days and those who had to wait longer than a year for prosthetic rehabilitation. Patients with more pre‐insertion complications tended to have delayed prosthetic rehabilitation. Those patients who had complications both before and after denture insertion tended to have bilateral dosing of their radiation treatment. Patients who had received radiation therapy were 1.7 times more likely to have post‐prosthesis insertion complications. The majority of patients who experienced complications before and after denture insertion had greater than 5000 cGy.

Conclusions:
The numbers of complications reviewed in this retrospective analysis were considerably fewer than the number expected. There appears to be no difference in the number of pre‐ and post‐insertion complications as a function of the time delay from oral surgical procedure to start of radiation treatment (10 to 21 days vs. 22 days or more).
Fracture Resistances of Cast Metal and Ceramic Dowel and Core Restorations: A Pilot Study
Authors: Yalçın Emine , Çehreli Murat C. , Canay Şenay
Published: July 2005

Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to compare fracture strengths of teeth restored with cast metal and ceramic dowel and cores supporting all‐ceramic crowns.

Materials and Methods:
Eighteen recently extracted teeth were randomly divided into 3 equal groups. Metal dowel and cores (MDC) were fabricated for 1 group using a base metal alloy, and served as the control. The other groups received In‐Ceram Spinell® (ICS) and IPS Empress 2® (IPS) dowel and cores. IPS Empress 1 crowns were fabricated for all samples. Each tooth was subjected to a shear force at a crosshead speed of 2 mm/min on a universal testing machine until failure occurred.

Results:
The mean fracture strengths and standard deviations of MDC, ICS, and IPS restorations were 1101 N (361), 832 N (288), and 1137 N (367), respectively. The differences between groups were insignificant (p < 0.05). Fractures of the all‐ceramic crowns were observed in the MDC group, whereas the failure of ceramic dowel and core restorations was associated with root fracture at the cervical region.

Conclusions:
Due to improved mechanical properties, In‐Ceram Spinell® and IPS Empress 2® ceramic dowel and cores may be candidates for the restoration of endodontically treated anterior teeth.