bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PIN1 protects auditory hair cells from senescence via autophagy
Authors: Lv Zhe , Zhang Yanzhuo , Cao Huan , Liu Qingjuan , Feng Xiaojuan , Yin Huan , Wang BaoShan
Published: November 2022

Background

Age-related hearing loss is an increasing sensorineural hearing loss. But the pathogenesis of ARHL has not been clarified. Herein, we studied the role and significance of PIN1 in regulating autophagy activity in senescence HEI-OC1cells and HCs.

Methods and Results

C57BL/6 mice and HEI-OC1 cells were contained in our research. Transfection of plasmids and juglone were used to upregulate or inhibit the PIN 1 expression. Immunofluorescence and Western blot were used to detect the expression of PIN1, LC3, p62, p21 and p16 protein levels in the hair cells of C57BL/6 mice cochleae and HEI-OC1 cells. Senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining was used to investigate the senescent level.The results of this study showed that the level of autophagy increased in the senescent auditory hair cells. When inhibited the autophagy level with 3-MA, the senescent HEI-OC1 cells were alleviated. The autophagy activity in senescent HEI-OC1 cells also could be reduced by overexpressing PIN1 protein. On the contrary, inhibiting PIN1 could increase the autophagy level of senescent cells and cochlear hair cells.

Conclusion

PIN1 might regulate autophagy activity to induce the senescent of HEI-OC1cells and HCs, which will provide a theoretical support for the prevention and treatment of age-related hearing loss.
Government Audit Quality: Audit Expectation – Performance Gap
Authors: Hasibuan David H. M. , Amyar Firdaus , Hidayah Nunung Nurul
Published: November 2022

This paper seeks to explore the audit expectation and performance gap in the Indonesian government audit. This research utilized a qualitative approach involving three methods of data collection namely interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis with a total of 32 government auditors of the Indonesian Supreme Audit Institution (BPK-RI). The data from all methods were analyzed through a qualitative thematic analysis framework. This research found that there are three types of occur in the context of Indonesian government audit quality namely deficient performance, deficient standards, and reasonableness gap.
Direct Detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Respiratory Samples of Children with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Koldas Seda Sevilay , Fidan Ebru , Yagci Aysegul Karahasan
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most important cause of lung infection and major cause of morbidity and mortality among Cystic Fibrosis patients. Early detection of P. aeruginosa from clinical samples is a key element in patient management. Appropriate antimicrobial treatment will postpone the transition to chronic lung infection.

Methods: Sputum and deep pharyngeal swab samples (DPS) of CF patients were inoculated into conventional agar plates and identified by Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry. DNA was extracted with a column based QIAamp DNA mini kit from the samples. Molecular detection was done by using 23S rDNA specific primers with Taqman probe for quantitative PCR (qPCR) and exoA gene specific primers for in house PCR.

Results: A total number of 67 sputum and 33 DPS samples were included to the study. Median age of the patients was 6 (2-14) for DPS and 15(7-33) for sputum samples. Detection limit was 103 cfu/ml for qPCR which displayed 94% sensitivity and 93% specificity for sputum; 44% sensitivity and 100% specificity for DPS. In house PCR displayed 94% sensitivity and 93% specificity for sputum; 50% sensitivity and 100% specificity for DPS. Time reqired for conventional method was 48 hours, 6 hours for in- house PCR and 4 hours for qPCR.

Conclusion: Although culture is a reliable detection technique, a more rapid and sensitive way to detect P. aeruginosa from CF airway samples is essential. In our study which culture is accepted as a gold standard; PCR results is promising especially for sputum samples. Validation of molecular methods is necessary before implementation in routine laboratories. Clinical implications of discrepant results between culture and PCR detection should be carefully evaluated and combining both approaches considering antibiotic treatment could be reasonable.
Impact of Nitrogen and Silicon Levels on Yield and Relative Economics of Transplanted Rice under Temperate Conditions
Authors: Jan Rukhsana , Hussan Shamshir Ul , Rasool Kawsar , Habibullah . , Mansoor Mehvish
Published: November 2022

The field experiment entitled “Impact of Nitrogen and Silicon application on yield and relative economics of transplanted rice under temperate conditions” was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir during Kharif seasons 2014-2015. The soil of the experiment was silty clay loam in texture, neutral in reaction with medium available nitrogen (442.88kg ha-1), phosphorus (9.3kg ha-1), potassium (221.60kg ha-1) and low available silicon (280.23kg ha-1). The experiment was laidout in Factorial Randomized Completely Block Design assigning combinations of three nitrogen levels viz. 120, 150 and 180N kg ha-1 and four silicon levels viz. Control, 5%, 10% and 15% Si with four replications. The results revealed that higher grain yield (76.00q ha-1), straw yield (93.97q ha-1) and harvest index (44.84%) were recorded with 120Nkgha-1. So far as silicon levels are concerned, 15%Si observed higher grain yield (76 q ha-1), straw yield (93.97 q ha-1) and harvest index (44.84%). Relative economics revealed that 120Nkgha-1 with 15%Si realized higher benefit cost ratio (Rs. 2.12).
ANALISIS NON-LINEAR STRUKTUR TENSEGRITY MENGGUNAKAN TOTAL POTENTIAL ENERGY OPTIMIZATION WITH METAHEURISTIC METHODS (TPO/MA)
Authors: Istianto Denalyn Tanist , Tjong Wong Foek , Prayogo Doddy
Published: November 2022

Total potential energy optimization with metaheuristic methods (TPO/MA) adalah metode analisis struktur yang berdasarkan pada prinsip energi minimum. Metode ini dapat melakukan analisis non-linear pada berbagai struktur tanpa modifikasi yang signifikan dalam prosesnya. Salah satu struktur yang bersifat sangat non-linear adalah struktur tensegrity. TPO/MA dengan tiga algoritma metaheuristik yaitu teaching–learning-based optimization (TLBO), harmony search (HS), dan symbiotic organisms search (SOS) diaplikasikan dalam analisis non-linear geometri pada struktur tensegrity dua dan tiga dimensi. Analisis struktur dilakukan dengan pemberian beban bertahap (incremental) untuk menghasilkan grafik load-displacement yang menunjukkan perilaku non-linear struktur. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan TPO/MA dapat melakukan analisis non-linear pada struktur tensegrity dengan akurasi dan konsistensi yang tinggi. TLBO dan SOS memiliki performa yang lebih baik dibandingkan HS dalam menyelesaikan analisis non-linear pada struktur tensegrity menggunakan TPO/MA.
Oligomannose‐coated liposomes as an adjuvant for the induction of cell‐mediated immunity
Authors: Sugimoto Masanobu , Ohishi Kazue , Fukasawa Masashi , Shikata Kohdoh , Kawai Hiromi , Itakura Hideyo , Hatanaka Masakazu , Sakakibara Ryuzo , Ishiguro Masatsune , Nakata Munehiro , Mizuochi Tsuguo
Published: July 2002

The effect of the coating of ovalbumin‐reconstituted liposomes with various oligosaccharides on their immunogenicity was investigated in mice. The coating of liposomes with oligomannose or yeast mannan drastically enhanced their ability to induce an ovalbumin‐specific delayed‐type footpad swelling response with a peak at 24 to 48 h post‐challenge. Among various oligosaccharides tested, only those with mannose residue at the non‐reducing termini manifested the activity when applied to liposomes. Since such oligosaccharides are ubiquitously found in the body, these results suggested the usefulness of oligomannose‐coated liposomes as a safe adjuvant for the induction of cell‐mediated immunity.
Interaction of urea with an unfolded protein The DNA‐binding domain of the 434‐repressor
Authors: Dötsch V. , Wider G. , Siegal G. , Wüthrich K.
Published: July 2002

Experimental techniques are presented for the observation of the solvation of the unfolded form of a globular protein, the N‐terminal 63‐residue polypeptide from the 434 repressor, in 7 M aqueous urea solution by both water and urea. With the use of 15N‐labelled urea it is demonstrated that the cross sections through two‐dimensional nuclear Overhauser enhancement (NOE) spectra at the chemical shifts of H2O and urea both contain direct NOEs with the protein, under conditions where exchange peaks are observed only in the water cross section. A preliminary analysis of the data showed that the residence times of urea molecules in solvation sites near the methyl groups of Val, Leu and Ile are significantly longer than those of water molecules in the same sites.
Characterization of a high‐affinity Ins‐P4 (inositol 1,3,4,5‐tetrakisphosphate) receptor from brain by an anti‐peptide antiserum
Authors: Stricker R. , Kalbacher H. , Lottspeich F. , Reiser G.
Published: July 2002

From a high‐affinity Ins‐P4 (inositol 1,3,4,5‐P4) receptor purified from pig cerebellum, digested with the protease Lys C peptide sequences were obtained. Synthetic peptide‐3 (19 amino acid residues) was used to generate an antiserum. Reaction of the affinity‐purified antibodies with the purified pig receptor protein in ELISA or Western blot was completely inhibited by peptide‐3. In cerebellar membranes, the antibodies clearly recognized the 42 kDa Ins‐P4 receptor protein and two additional proteins (25 kDa, 37 kDa) which still have to be identified. The anti‐peptide antibodies could selectively immunoprecipitate the Ins‐P4 receptor protein. The antiserum was used (i) to demonstrate that in brain from different species (human, pig, beef, rat, mouse and sheep) a similar 42 kDa Ins‐P4 receptor protein is contained, and (ii) to obtain indications for the existence of a related soluble form of the 42 kDa Ins‐P4 receptor besides the membrane‐associated receptor.
Influence of ADP, AMP‐PNP and of depletion of nucleotides on the structural properties of F1ATPase: a Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic study
Authors: Lippe Giovanna , Di Pancrazio Francesca , Dabbeni-Sala Federica , Bertoli Enrico , Tanfani Fabio
Published: July 2002

Mitochondrial F1ATPase from beef heart was treated with different buffers in order to modulate the nucleotide content of the enzyme and then analysed by FT‐IR spectroscopy. Treatment of F1ATPase with a buffer lacking nucleotides and glycerol led to the formation of two fractions consisting of an inactive aggregated enzyme deprived almost completely of bound nucleotides and of an active enzyme containing ATP only in the tight sites and having a structure largely accessible to the solvent and a low thermal stability. Treatment of F1ATPase with saturating ADP, which induced the hysteretic inhibition during turnover, or AMP‐PNP did not affect remarkably the secondary structure of the enzyme complex but significantly increased its compactness and thermal stability. It was hypothesised that the formation of the inactive aggregated enzyme was mainly due to the destabilisation of the α‐subunits of F1ATPase and that the induction of the hysteretic inhibition is related to a particular conformation of the enzyme, which during turnover becomes unable to sustain catalysis.
Lymph node metastases, cell type, age, HPV status and type, neoadjuvant chemotherapy and treatment failures in cervical cancer
Authors: Elliott P.
Published: July 2002

Conflicting evidence on the prognostic influence of some of the clinical and histopathological variables in cervical cancer of the HPV status and type and chemotherapeutic response prompted a number of reviews from nearly 40 years experience in a tertiary referral centre. The collation and analyses of these data with those from recent literature allow some proposals to be made. The disease is more prevalent in the young in women in whom, in many centers, the mortality is also higher; the latter may be related to the reported increase in both small cell types and adeno and adenosquamous carcinoma — a finding more marked in the young. Lymph node metastases, related to increasing grade, size, stage and lymph space invasion, are unequivocally associated with a worse prognosis. Resolution of the exact nature of the intimate association of this disease with the human papilloma virus remains to be resovled as does the influence on prognosis of the tumor HPV status and that of the different oncogenic types. Reports on the efficiency of neoadjuvant platinum based combination chemotherapy are generally promising but vary considerably depending on the regimen used. Its value will not be determined without properly conducted large randomized studies.
Modified pelvic anterior exenteration
Authors: Ng H.‐T. , Kan Y.‐Y. , Ho E.S.‐C. , Yen M.‐S. , Chao K.‐C. , Yuan C.‐C.
Published: July 2002

During a 20‐year time period, 117 patients with various histologic types of cancer underwent pelvic exentereation. Six of the 107 patients who needed anterior exenteration with urinary diversion received partial excision of the urinary bladder and modification surgery, of which three had uretero‐cystostomy, two had mobilization of bladder and uretero‐cystostomy and one had uretero‐uterostomy. These six patients, except for two, died of disease in 1 year. Two patients are alive and happy, with quality of life because they can urinate normally. We suggest that anterior exenteration should be modified whenever possible to preserve the bladder and not to do an urinary diversion.
Intrapartum fetal pulse oximetry: present and future
Authors: Elchalal U. , Weissman A. , Abramov Y. , Abramov D. , Weinstein D.
Published: July 2002

Pulse oximetry is widely used to monitor the patient's well‐being in anesthetic and neonatal practice. As a result of recent technologic and theoretical advances, it has emerged as a clinical tool in intrapartum fetal monitoring. Oximeters record both pulse rate and arterial oxygen saturation of the fetus and they may be adapted to derive an estimate of peripheral perfusion. Reflectance oximetry is more accurate than transmission oximetry in intrapartum fetal management. This method uses the pulsatile changes of red and infrared light reflected from tissue to estimate arterial oxygenation. Pulse oximetry is cheap, non‐invasive, simple to operate, relatively accurate and has a fast response time. Factors adversely affecting the accuracy of the pulse oximeter output include transducer displacement, peripheral vasoconstriction, hypotension, anemia, presence of intravascular dyes, meconium staining, fetal hair and scalp edema. Fetal pulse oximetry is limited by a wide normal range and inadequate calibration. The amniochorionic membranes however do not affect oximetry readings so that this method may be applied before rupture of the membranes, i.e. before labor. Once successfully developed, fetal pulse oximetry could potentially be used in combination with other monitoring techniques to reduce instrumental and operative interventions during labor and improve perinatal outcome.
Empirical Estimates of Beta When Investors Face Estimation Risk
Authors: Clarkson Peter M. , Thompson Rex
Published: July 2002

The authors examine empirical implications of models of differential information that formalize the following intuition: securities for which there is relatively little information are perceived as relatively more risky because of the greater uncertainty surrounding the exact parameters of their return distributions. The implication that beta risk for low information firms should decline as information increases is confirmed with several data sets. The authors find such a decline over the first several periods subsequent to initial public offerings and initial listings. There is also an abrupt risk decline at the first annual earnings announcement. Journal ofFinance, Vol. 45, No. 2 (June 1990), pp. 431-453. (Reprinted with permission of the Journal ofEconomic Literature.)
One‐codon alternative splicing of the CpG MTase Dnmt1 transcript in mouse somatic cells
Authors: Lin Meng-Jau , Lee Tai-Lin , Hsu Duen-Wei , Shen C.-K.James
Published: July 2002

The genomic methylation patterns in the mammalian somatic cells are presumably maintained by a single enzyme, dnmt1. In mouse, this DNA (cytosine‐5)‐methyltransferase, or CpG MTase, is encoded by the Dnmt1 gene. We now present evidence that in different tissues and cell types, the primary transcript of mouse dnmt1 is alternatively spliced to generate two poly‐(A) RNAs of approximately similar abundance. This alternative splicing most likely originates from the existence of two tandemly arranged acceptor sites separated by only 3 nt. The two Dnmt1 mRNAs thus encode two CpG MTases differing by two amino acids. We discuss the implications of the discovery of two dnmt1 isozymes, instead of one enzyme as previously thought, in the somatic cells of both mouse and human.
FTIR spectroscopy of complexes formed between metarhodopsin II and C‐terminal peptides from the G‐protein α‐ and γ‐subunits
Authors: Bartl Franz , Ritter Eglof , Hofmann Klaus Peter
Published: July 2002

Metarhodopsin II (MII) provides the active conformation of rhodopsin for interaction with the G‐protein, Gt. Fourier transform infrared spectra from samples prepared by centrifugation reflect the pH dependent equilibrium between MII and inactive metarhodopsin I. C‐terminal synthetic peptides (Gtα(340–350) and Gtγ(60–71)farnesyl) stabilize MII. We find that both peptides cause similar spectral changes not seen with control peptides (Gtα (K341R, L349A) and non‐farnesylated Gtγ). The spectra reflect all the protonation dependent bands normally observed when MII is formed at acidic pH. Beside the protonation dependent bands, additional features, similar with both peptides, appear in the amide I and II regions.
Dominant negative myostatin produces hypertrophy without hyperplasia in muscle
Authors: Zhu Xiaolei , Hadhazy Michele , Wehling Michelle , Tidball James G. , McNally Elizabeth M.
Published: July 2002

Myostatin, a TGF‐β family member, is a negative regulator of muscle growth. Here, we generated transgenic mice that expressed myostatin mutated at its cleavage site under the control of a muscle specific promoter creating a dominant negative myostatin. These mice exhibited a significant (20–35%) increase in muscle mass that resulted from myofiber hypertrophy and not from myofiber hyperplasia. We also evaluated the role of myostatin in muscle degenerative states, such as muscular dystrophy, and found significant downregulation of myostatin. Thus, further inhibition of myostatin may permit increased muscle growth in muscle degenerative disorders.
In situ analysis of methylglyoxal metabolism in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Martins Ana Margarida T.B.S , Cordeiro Carlos Alberto A , Ponces Freire Ana Maria J
Published: July 2002

Methylglyoxal metabolism was studied during Saccharomyces cerevisiae grown with D‐glucose as the sole carbon and energy source. Using for the first time a specific assay for methylglyoxal in yeast, metabolic fluxes of its formation and D‐lactate production were determined. D‐Glucose consumption and ethanol production were determined during growth. Metabolic fluxes were also determined in situ, at the glycolytic triose phosphate levels and glyoxalase pathway. Maximum fluxes of ethanol production and glucose consumption correspond to maxima of methylglyoxal and D‐lactate formation fluxes during growth. Methylglyoxal formation is quantitatively related to glycolysis, representing 0.3% of the total glycolytic flux in S. cerevisiae.
Characteristics of pregnant vs. non‐pregnant women physicians: findings from the women physicians’ health study
Authors: Frank E , Cone K
Published: July 2002

Objective: Many young physicians are women, and many are in their childbearing years. Knowing pregnant physicians’ status is useful for epidemiological and workforce reasons, yet no studies have compared pregnant with same‐age, non‐pregnant physicians, an especially appropriate comparison group. Study design: Data from the Women Physicians’ Health Study, a national questionnaire‐based survey. We compare 87 pregnant with 1148 non‐pregnant women physicians, ages 30–40. Results: Pregnant physicians ate more fat, fruits and vegetables, and cheese, but not more dairy than non‐pregnant women physicians. While nearly half consumed alcohol, they reported drinking an average of only 0.4 drinks/week, and none smoked. Nearly all took vitamin supplements. Pregnant physicians exercised as much as non‐pregnant physicians, and pregnant physicians’ self‐reported health status was better. Work amount, desire to work less, perceived work control, career satisfaction, and work stress did not significantly differ by pregnancy status. Conclusion: The prenatal period may be a time of especially healthy habits and considerable productivity for female physicians.
The changing long‐run linkage between yields on Treasury and municipal bonds and the 1986 Tax Act
Authors: Crowder William J. , Wohar Mark E.
Published: July 2002

The Tax Act of 1986 changed the tax treatment of tax‐exempt municipal bonds for banks. Since banks were the dominant participant in the municipal bond market until 1986, some believe that this resulted in a breakdown of the long‐run equilibrium relationship between municipal and US Treasury securities of equal maturity. We present evidence that there was a significant structural break in the relationship between municipal and Treasury bonds around the time of the Tax Act. This break is characterized by both a shift in the mean and a flattening of the slope parameter that links the two interest rates in a long‐run equilibrium relationship.
The implication of discount rate changes for market timing
Authors: Prather Laurie , Bertin William J.
Published: July 2002

This study implements and tests a market timing trading rule using the public information contained in discount rate changes as signals to enter or exit the stock market. The trading rule entails entering the market on an initial discount rate cut and remaining fully invested through any subsequent cuts. Alternatively, an initial discount rate increase signals an exit from the market and remaining out of the market through any subsequent increases. It is presumed that short‐term Treasury instruments are held in out‐market periods. We test and report the results of this market timing strategy in comparison to a benchmark buy‐and‐hold strategy through the use of various investment performance measures. Analysis of ex‐post returns indicates that the market timing trading rule produces higher risk‐adjusted returns than a buy‐and‐hold‐the‐market strategy. Even without a risk adjustment, the returns of the strategy exceed those of the passive buy‐and‐hold strategy in the three subperiods analyzed. The strategy's predictive accuracy for timing the market clearly exceeds the minimum predictive accuracy suggested by earlier market timing literature. Finally, the results of the statistical analysis indicate that the strategy is successful in outguessing the market as defined in the classical Treynor and Mazuy illustration.
Nutrient Medium Optimization for Rosmarinic Acid Production by Lavandula vera MM Cell Suspension
Authors: Pavlov Atanas I. , Ilieva Mladenka P. , Panchev Ivan N.
Published: July 2002

The overall effect of NH4NO3, KNO3, and KH2PO4 on the biosynthesis of rosmarinic acid and cell biomass by Lavandula vera MM cell suspension was studied by the method of the full factor experiment. Polynomial regression models were elaborated to give a quantitative description of the processes of biosynthesis of rosmarinic acid (Y1) and cell biomass (Y2) as a result of the variation of the concentration of NH4+, 0.09 g/L ≤ X1 ≤ 0.23 g/L; NO3‐, 2.44 g/L ≤ X2 ≤ 3.02 g/L; and KH2PO4, 0.170 ≤ X3 ≤ 0.425 g/L. Optimization procedures according to the modified Simplex method allowed us to establish the optimal conditions for the biosynthesis of rosmarinic acid by Lavandula vera MM: X1* = 0.09 g/L; X2* = 3.02 g/L, and X3* = 0.170 g/L, where Y1*max = 1786.74 mg/L (27 times higher compared with the cultivation in the standard Linsmayer‐Skoog medium). As a result, modified ingredients of the Linsmayer‐Skoog nutrient medium were applied for the cultivation of Lavandula vera MM to achieve a maximum yield of rosmarinic acid.
A Study of Mass Transfer Kinetics in an Enantiomeric Separation System Using a Polymeric Imprinted Stationary Phase
Authors: Miyabe Kanji , Guiochon Georges
Published: July 2002

Chromatographic data pertaining to the enantioseparation of L‐ and D‐phenylalanine anilide (PA) on a polymeric stationary phase imprinted with L‐PA were studied from the viewpoints of phase equilibrium, mass transfer kinetics, and the thermodynamic properties of this enantiomeric separation system. The concentration dependence of the lumped mass transfer rate coefficient (km,L) previously published was analyzed to obtain new information concerning the mass transfer characteristics in this chiral separation system. It was shown that intraparticle diffusion contributed much more to km,L than adsorption/desorption. The positive concentration dependence of km,L seemed to be interpreted by considering that of the surface diffusion coefficient, itself explained by the heterogeneous surface model. The characteristic features of the phase equilibrium, the mass transfer kinetics, and the thermodynamics of the enantiomeric separation system probably result from the adsorption energy distribution on the surface of the imprinted phase having an exponential decay.
The Combinatorial Library: A Multifunctional Resource
Authors: Schultz Jane S. , Schultz Jerome S.
Published: July 2002

About 10 years ago Dr. Mario Geysen introduced a method for synthesizing a large number of peptides on solid supports simultaneously. This work has subsequently been generalized by many other research groups to develop technologies that allow from hundreds to thousands to millions of compounds to be synthesized in parallel. These large collections of compounds have been now termed combinatorial libraries. Much of the effort in this field has been directed to drug discovery. However, in recent years, these libraries have been shown to be very useful for finding compounds (such as inhibitors, binding agents, enzymes, and antibodies) that satisfy specific requirements. Thus these techniques represent a very excellent resource for the discovery of compounds for a variety of biotechnological process needs.
The efficacy of surgically placed epidural catheters for analgesia after posterior spinal surgery
Authors: Turner A. , Lee J. , Mitchell R. , Berman J. , Edge G. , Fennelly M.
Published: July 2002

Posterior spinal fusion for correction of scoliosis is a major procedure for which the provision of satisfactory, safe postoperative analgesia is often a problem. One possible solution involves the placement of epidural catheters under direct vision by the surgeon at the end of the procedure, followed by an epidural infusion of local anaesthetic with or without an opioid. Despite its simplicity, this technique has not been reported as being consistently successful. We report an observational study of the analgesia achieved with surgically placed epidural catheters and of the reasons for the failure of the technique. Fourteen consecutive patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion had epidural catheters placed by the surgeon and had radio‐opaque dye injected down the catheter 15 min before their routine postoperative chest X‐ray. Analgesia was assessed at 0, 6, 12 and 24 h after surgery using visual analogue scores. Five patients had inadequate pain control; none of these patients had dye visible in the epidural space. Seven patients had dye visible in the epidural space; all of these cases had satisfactory analgesia. In two cases, dye was observed in the paravertebral gutters; both of these patients had satisfactory postoperative analgesia. This small pilot study suggests that correctly placed ‘surgical’ epidural catheters are capable of providing good analgesia after posterior spinal fusion and that misplaced catheters, seen in a large proportion of patients, are associated with inadequate analgesia.
Identification of a new mutation in platelet glycoprotein IX (GPIX) in a patient with Bernard–Soulier syndrome
Authors: Rivera Candido E. , Villagra Jose , Riordan Michael , Williams Sybil , Lindstrom Katarina J. , Rick Margaret E.
Published: July 2002

We describe a new mutation in glycoprotein IX (GPIX) in a patient with Bernard–Soulier syndrome (BSS). Sequencing of GPIX revealed a homozygous (T→C) transition at nucleotide 1717 (GenBank/HUMGPIX/M80478), resulting in a Cys8 (TGT)→Arg (CGT) replacement in the mature peptide. DNA restriction enzyme analysis using BsaAI revealed that the patient was homozygous and that his parents were heterozygous for the defect. This mutation disrupts a putative disulphide bond between the Cys8 and Cys12 that would alter the secondary structure of GPIX and which probably accounts for the absence of the GPIb/IX/V complex from the platelet surface in this patient.
The responses of seven co‐occurring woodland herbaceous perennials to localized nutrient‐rich patches
Authors: Farley R. A. , Fitter A. H.
Published: July 2002

1 Nutrient‐rich patches can occur in soils at a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. Differences in the root proliferation response between species may be due to differing abilities of root systems to locate and recognize patches of differing size and nutrient concentration.

2 We investigated the root proliferation responses of seven co‐occurring herbaceous perennial British woodland species (Ajuga reptans, Glechoma hederacea, Oxalis acetosella, Silene dioica, Stachys sylvatica, Veronica montana and Viola riviniana) and the effect of mycorrhizal colonization on any response.

3 Plants were planted in nutrient‐poor sand in the centre of rectangular pots, with a nutrient‐rich patch to one side and a control (sand) patch on the other. Size and nutrient concentration of the patches were varied between treatments.

4 Species differed in the size of their root systems and in their ability to respond to localized nutrient‐rich patches. Oxalis acetosella and Viola riviniana, which produced the smallest root systems, showed similar root growth in nutrient‐rich and control patches. All other species responded to the presence of a nutrient‐rich patch by various combinations of root proliferation, changes in root branching pattern and by an increase in specific root length.

5 In some species the response was affected by patch attributes: Silene dioica and Veronica montana were sensitive to the nutrient concentration of the patch, and Glechoma hederacea did not respond to the smallest sized patch.

6 Mycorrhizal colonization had little effect on root proliferation. Only one species (Oxalis acetosella) could be shown to benefit from colonization by increased phosphate uptake.

7 The soil is a heterogeneous environment in terms of nutrient availability; differences between species in the ability to exploit this heterogeneity may affect their distribution, and could be a mechanism that reduces interspecific root competition.
Dietetic helpers in the community: the Bolton Community Nutrition Assistants Project
Authors: Kennedy L. A. , Ubido J. , Elhassan S. , Price A. , Sephton J.
Published: July 2002

Study objective: To explore the role of ‘Community Nutrition Assistants’ (CNAs) in helping to increase coverage, by increasing access to local community dietetic services, and to bring about positive changes in the determinants of healthy eating, within low‐income areas of Bolton, UK.

Study design: A descriptive evaluation of programme development and field‐testing (1995–97) in the community. Nonexperimental design.

Setting: Community, less affluent neighbourhoods in Bolton, North West England.

Subjects: 1272 people in total, individuals and members of community groups, recorded as CNA contacts during two discreet monitoring periods; an opportunistic or purposive sampling strategy was used; subjects were randomly selected for group interview (n=8) and telephone interviews (n=41) out of a traceable sample of contacts (n=94) over a randomly selected 1‐month collection period.

Findings: Compared with professional‐only service, CNAs efforts resulted in a four‐fold increase in coverage of community nutrition services in the local community. CNAs demonstrated unique attributes, which positively influence their ability to work well with local people, but particularly those considered hard to reach. At least half the subjects interviewed reported positive behaviour changes such as changes to foods bought, cooking methods or foods eaten in the home.

Conclusions: This study has shown some benefits in training local people to work alongside existing community dietitians. This may help to reduce inequalities in health, address barriers to healthy eating experienced by low‐income families and improve cost effectiveness. Before expansion continues on an ad hoc basis, further research is needed to test its application in general, to assess health outcomes and to quantify the value of using local people. The findings here are useful in guiding further developments.
Rapid Detection of European Heterobasidion annosum Intersterility Groups and Intergroup Gene Flow Using Taxon‐specific Competitive‐Priming PCR (TSCP‐PCR)
Authors: Schulze S.
Published: July 2002

Using taxon‐specific competitive‐priming polymerase chain reaction (TSCP‐PCR) the intersterility groups (ISGs) S and P of the root and butt rot pathogen Heterobasidion annosum were found in an active pine mortality center in the forest region Tharandter Wald (Saxonia, Germany). All isolates from spruce were typed as S, and all isolates from pine were P, except for two isolates which were identified as hybrid 'SP’genets. These results indicate the possibility of gene flow in nature between the two ISGs in Europe.
Secretory IgA epitopes in basal tears of extended‐wear soft contact lens wearers and in non‐lens wearers
Authors: Pearce D J , Demirci G , Willcox M D P
Published: July 2002

Purpose: To determine secretory IgA epitopes in tears of extended‐wear soft contact lens wearers and non‐wearing controls.

Methods: We developed enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) to determine the tear concentrations of two epitopes of secretory IgA, the IgA alpha‐chain and the secretory component. These epitopes were measured in basal tears of 20 individuals in 6 nights of extended wear of etafilcon A soft contact lenses and in 19 non‐lens‐wearing individuals.

Results: Levels of IgA alpha‐chain immunoreactivity were significantly decreased in the lens‐wearing group compared to non‐lens wearers. However, the level of secretory component immunoreactivity was not significantly different between groups. IgA alpha‐chain and secretory component immunoreactvity were highly correlated; however, some samples showed a marked variation between these two values.

Conclusion: Tear concentrations of sIgA epitopes are significantly reduced in extended‐wear contact lens wearers, and may contribute to the increased susceptibility to ocular infection seen in this group.
Case report: Dialysis‐associated hypotension in patients with eosinophilia
Authors: Kanno Yoshihiko , Hayashi Matsuhiko , McAlister Wade , Sato Soichiro , Sasamura Hiroyuki , Saruta Takao
Published: July 2002

SUMMARY Hypotension is an important complication during haemodialysis, which is induced by many factors. Two patients complained of chest discomfort accompanied by hypotension during haemodialysis. The blood pressure of these patients fell with the numbers of eosinophils throughout the dialysis sessions. Reducing the eosinophilia by the administration of a steroid and an antihistaminic agent led to a significant improvement of hypotension during dialysis. These two cases suggest that the eosinophil might be an initiator of the cytokine network, ultimately releasing vasodilators, and thus is a cause of hypotension during haemodialysis.
Differential effects of probucol on two distinct experimental rat nephrosis models
Authors: Nakahama H , Obata K , Sugita M
Published: July 2002

We compared an antiproteinuric effect of a lipid‐lowering agent probucol on two distinct types of experimental nephrosis in rats, i.e. mercuric–chloride (HgCl2)‐induced autoimmune glomerulonephritis in Brown Norway (BN) rats and puromycin aminonucleoside (PA)‐nephrosis in Wistar rats. The rats were fed either standard rat chow or chow containing 5% probucol. BN rats were treated with HgCl2 according to a standard protocol (HgCl2 1 mg/kg subcutaneously three times/week). Probucol treatment did not ameliorate proteinuria, renal histology or a strong linear staining for IgG and an intercellular adhesion molecule, ICAM‐1, in glomeruli. Wistar rats were made nephrotic with an intraperitoneal injection of PA (100 mg/kg). In this model, in contrast to the BN rat model, no glomerular deposition of IgG or ICAM‐1 was observed. Probucol treatment ameliorated proteinuria significantly. These findings suggest that the response to probucol differs in different experimental nephrosis models. As probucol only affects PA‐nephrosis, in which ICAM‐1 expression is negative, the ICAM‐1 attenuation is not likely to be involved in the antiproteinuric effect of probucol.
Iron and vitamin C content of commonly consumed foods in Vietnam
Authors: Duc Bui Minh , Humphries Debbie , Mai Le Thi Bach , Dao Ha Anh , Co Trinh Minh , Nga Huynh Hong , Kim Phan Thi
Published: July 2002

The iron and vitamin C content of water spinach and rice samples from three sites in Vietnam were chemically analysed. The iron content of home‐milled rice from Nghe An was higher than the iron content of machine‐milled rice from Thai Binh and Hanoi. In addition, the iron content of cooked rice was lower than that of uncooked rice as iron was removed during the washing and rinsing of the rice prior to cooking. Cooked rice that was washed and rinsed less thoroughly had a higher iron content. The iron content of water spinach from different locations was very similar, although white water spinach had a much higher vitamin C content than red water spinach.
The relevance of parity to ureteric dilatation
Authors: Bradley  , Desai  , Mamtora
Published: July 2002

Objective

 To assess whether the mild dilatation of the right ureter in women that is sometimes seen on intravenous urography (IVU) represents persistent dilatation after a previous pregnancy.

Patients and methods

 The intravenous urograms of 71 men, 63 parous and 27 nulliparous women were evaluated prospectively. The two groups of women were divided into those with and without a confirmed history of urinary tract infection (UTI) as the indication for IVU, producing five groups in all. Measurements were taken on both the 5‐min and the compressed or release films on each side.

Results

 There were no significant differences in ureteric diameters among the five groups for the uncompressed right ureter (P=0.23), the left ureter uncompressed (P=0.32) or compressed (P=0.87). For the compressed right ureter, the difference was significant, with the diameters in the parous women with proven UTIs being larger than in the other groups (P=0. 043).

Conclusion

 There is a significant increase in the diameter of the compressed right ureter in the group of parous women with a history of proven UTI. Infection or parity alone do not produce this effect; the combination of the two factors is required.
The nutritional and physiological properties of chocolate
Authors: Schenker Sarah
Published: July 2002

Summary This review will describe the background to, and the development of, modern chocolate production, chocolate consumption, the sensory properties and the nutritional composition of chocolate, the physiological effects associated with chocolate consumption and some of the modern myths surrounding chocolate.
LIPID‐FREE VS. LIPID‐BOUND EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGIC NEURITIS IN THE LEWIS RAT
Authors: Cavaletti G. , Celon S. , Marmiroli P. , Matà S. , Fasano A. , Lolli F. , Riccio P. , Tredici G.
Published: July 2002

The P2 protein of the peripheral nervous system myelin is a neuritogenic protein capable to induce experimental allergic neuritis (EAN) in the Lewis rat. It has been suggested that addition of some lipids to the protein isolated in the lipid‐free form might enhance its immunogenicity. Because lipid‐bound P2, copurified with all the myelin lipids, shows a conformation that is different from that of LF‐P2, this difference might, in fact, influence its immunogenicity.

In this study, we have compared lipid‐free P2 (the “EAN factor”) with the corresponding lipid‐bound form of the protein for their ability to induce EAN after sc inoculation in the Lewis rat.

The timing of disease and the clinical scores of lipid‐bound P2‐induced EAN animals (n = 23) did not differ statistically from those injected with lipid‐free P2 (n = 23), with only a tendency to higher clinical scores in the former group. Accordingly, tail nerve conduction velocities did not differ in the 2 groups and were in both significantly lower in comparison to Freund adjuvant controls (n = 8). Inflammation and demyelination predominated in spinal roots and were less evident in the sciatic nerve for both groups of animals. The ELISA determination of antibodies to lipid‐free and lipid‐bound P2 revealed the development of antibodies recognizing the lipid‐free form of the protein in both groups of animals.

Our results are in contrast with previous studies performed after addition of individual lipids to the P2 purified in the lipid‐free form, and indicate that native‐like, lipid‐bound P2 is not significantly more immunogenic than lipid‐depleted P2.
MACROPHAGE INFILTRATION AND INDUCTION OF P75 NTR AND IL‐1B IN THE NERVE OF DIABETIC RATS
Authors: Conti G. , De Riz M. , Scarpini E. , Bussini S. , De Pol A. , Vaccina F. , Bianchi R. , Livraghi S. , Baron P , Stoll G. , Scarlato G.
Published: July 2002

Recently, inflammation has been involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy, and activated macrophages have been found in the peripheral nervous system of diabetic rats, with a possible role in chemotaxis and regeneration. In this study, we obtained sciatic nerve specimens from diabetic rats at different time points following STZ administration. Macrophages infiltration, IL‐1b and p75NTR induction were analyzed by immunocytochemistry on frozen sections and on teased nerve fibers. Apoptosis was detected on teased nerve fibers by TUNEL and DAPI staining. Cell phenotype was characterized by double‐staining with antibodies specific for Schwann cells and macrophages. The nerves obtained from STZ‐diabetic rats showed macrophages infiltration by day 14 following STZ administration, with complete clearance by day 35. Fifteen percent of these cells were TUNEL positive. IL‐1B induction was concomitant with macrophages infiltration and not detectable by day 35. p75NTR expression began by day 21, peaking by day 35, and dropping to barely detectable levels by day 105. These findings seem to indicate that the concomitance of these processes may be crucial in the regulation of nerve damage and in promoting an attempt of regeneration at the early stages of STZ diabetic neuropathy.
ANTI‐GQ1b ANTIBODIES IN A PATIENT WITH FACIAL NERVE DIPLEGIA WITHOUT OPHTHAMOLPLEGIA
Authors: De Riz M. , Clerici R. , Carpo M. , Siglienti I. , Conti G. , Scarpini E. , Baron P.L. , Silani V. , Cappellari A. , Nobile‐Orazio E. , Scarlato G.
Published: July 2002

Anti‐GQ1b IgG antibodies are detectable in patients with Miller‐Fisher syndrome and related to the development of ophthalmoplegia. We report a 56‐year‐old woman who was admitted in our Hospital because of peripheral facial nerve diplegia, dysphagia, dysphonia, and areflexia two weeks after a mild upper respiratory infection with fever. Gait with superficial and deep sensation appeared normal. Her mental status was intact. CSF, EMG, and MRI of the cervical spinal cord were normal, while GQ1b antibodies (1:1600), were found in the serum. Starting by day 4 after admission, the patient was treated with six plasma‐exchanges, over a three‐week period. By day 9, facial nerve diplegia, dysphagia, and dysphonia started to improve. By day 35, there were no clinical deficits, and by day 45, deep tendon reflexes were elicitable again. Anti‐GQ1b antibodies returned to the normal range (1:800) six months later. Plasma exchange was dramatically effective in the treatment of this patient. This clinical case shows that anti‐GQ1b IgG antibodies may be detectable in acute demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy with bulbar signs and without ataxia and ophthalmoplegia.
AN INNOVATIVE HAND BRACE FOR TREATMENT OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME (CTS): RESULTS OF A CONTROLLED STUDY
Authors: Manente G. , Torrieri F. , Di Blasio F. , Uncini A.
Published: July 2002

We recently noticed that squeezing the distal heads of metacarpal bones (excluding the first) and stretching the III and IV finger relieved paresthesias and pain in CTS (Manente et al. 1999). This manoeuvre was the rationale to design an innovative hand brace we called “MANU” (patented) and to design a trial to assess efficacy and tolerability.

Forty patients with CTS symptoms and abnormal electrophysiological tests were instructed to wear MANU during the night for 1 month. Efficacy was assessed by the Levine scale the Subject's Global Impression of Change Questionnaire. Forty CTS patients served as control.

In the MANU group, the Levine score was at the entry: 2.3 ± 0.6 and 1.5 ± 0.5 at the end of the study (p < 0.001). At 1 month 27 patients (67.5%) were free of symptoms or reported pronounced improvement, and 13 (32.5%) reported moderate or mild improvement. MANU was very well tolerated by all patients. In controls, Levine score was at entry 2.4 ± 0.6 and 2.3 ± 0.6 at the end (p = 0.6). At 1 month, 7 patients (17.5%) reported mild or moderate improvement (4 patients spontaneously, 3 after change or reduction of manual activities), 33 patients (82.5%) reported no change or worsened.

This short‐term study shows that MANU is highly efficient in ameliorating CTS symptoms and well tolerated.
HYPERTROPHY OF SPINAL ROOTS IN CHRONIC INFLAMMATORY DEMYELINATING NEUROPATHY
Authors: Nardelli E. , Agazzi P. , Polo A. , Boaretto M. , Cavallaro T. , Ferracci F. , Moretto G. , Rizzuto N
Published: July 2002

We report on two patients (A, B) who developed unusual hypertrophy of cervical (A; disease duration (dd), 21 months) or lumbar (B; dd, 12 months) roots (LR) causing clinical features that were interpreted elsewhere initially as neurofibromas (A) or a Guillain‐Barrè syndrome (B). Nodular swellings along radial, ulnar, and the great auricular nerve were observed (A). Clinical signs of a rapid mixed motor and sensory distal impairment of all four limbs were occasionally associated with signs of spinal epiconus compression (B). A short course of 500 mg methylprednisolone/day for five days was administered without benefit (B). The clinical status rapidly improved with intense course of IVIg (B). The level of CSF protein was raised (B). Electrophysiological studies showed an impairment of both peroneal and tibial NCV overall through the proximal segments (prolonged F‐wave latency in A and B) and conduction blocks (A). Attenuated peripheral SNAPs (sural nerve, B) and absent spine and scalp SEPs from lower limbs (B) were found. Sural nerve biopsy (A) showed massive presence of onion bulbs throughout the section. Case A appears to fall somewhere between multiple mononeuropathy with persistent conduction blocks and CIDP. Case B had a relapsing‐remitting course and occasionally myelopathy insidiously appeared. Paraparesis due to the compression by enlarged and hypertrophic roots at the cauda equina was radiologically evident. MRI together with electrophysiological studies, and treatment response may be necessary to establish a correct diagnosis (A and B). The frequency of root hypertrophy (57% in Duggin's series, Brain 122, 1383, 1999) probably deserves further clinical studies and observations in the animal models of CIDP.