bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Developing fructan‐synthesizing capability in a plant invertase via mutations in the sucrose‐binding box
Authors: Ritsema Tita , Hernández Lázaro , Verhaar Auke , Altenbach Denise , Boller Thomas , Wiemken Andres , Smeekens Sjef 
Published: August 2006

SummaryFructans are fructose polymers that are synthesized from sucrose by fructosyltransferases. Fructosyltransferases are present in unrelated plant families suggesting a polyphyletic origin for their transglycosylation activity. Based on sequence comparisons and enzymatic properties, fructosyltransferases are proposed to have evolved from vacuolar invertases. Between 1% and 5% of the total activity of vacuolar invertase is transglycosylating activity. We investigated the nature of the changes that can convert a hydrolysing invertase into a transglycosylating enzyme. Remarkably, replacing 33 amino acids (amino acids 143–175) corresponding to the N‐terminus of the mature onion vacuolar invertase with the corresponding region of onion fructan:fructan 6G‐fructosyltransferase (6G‐FFT) led to a shift in activity from hydrolysis of sucrose towards transglycosylation between two sucrose molecules. The substituted N‐terminal region contains the sucrose‐binding box that harbours the nucleophile involved in sucrose hydrolysis (Asp164). Subsequent research into the individual amino acids responsible for the enhanced transglycosylation activity revealed that mutations in amino acids Trp161 and Asn166, can give rise to a shift towards polymerase activity. Changing the amino acid at either of these positions in the sucrose‐binding box increases the transglycosylation capacity of invertases two‐ to threefold compared to wild type. Combining the two mutations had an additive effect on transglycosylation ability, resulting in an approximately fourfold enhancement. The mutations generated correspond with natural variation present in the sucrose‐binding boxes of vacuolar invertases and fructosyltransferases. These relatively small changes that increase the transglycosylation capacity of invertases might explain the polyphyletic origin of the fructan accumulation trait.
Insecticidal and antifeedant activities of proteins secreted by entomopathogenic fungi against Spodoptera littoralis (Lep., Noctuidae)
Authors: Quesada‐Moraga E. , Carrasco‐Díaz J.‐A. , Santiago‐Álvarez C. 
Published: August 2006

Abstract:  Entomopathogenic fungi are a poorly exploited source of insecticidal proteins, which may be used for the development of new natural insecticides and as alternative molecules for transgenic deployment. The crude soluble protein extracts in Adamek's liquid medium of 25 fungal isolates belonging to the fungal species Metarhizum anisopliae, Beauveria bassiana, Beauveria brongniartii and Scopulariopsis brevicaulis were screened by per os toxicity on Spodoptera littoralis larvae. Whilst extracts from two M. anisopliae and two B. bassiana isolates gave significant mortalities when applied either on alfalfa leaf discs or incorporated into artificial diet, the one from M. anisopliae 01/58‐Su isolate was the only most toxic that showed promise for S. littoralis control. In leaf disc assays, this extract exhibited strong dose‐related toxic and antifeedant activity against the larvae. At 10, 20 and 40 μg protein/insect, the extract gave 61.3%, 96.6% and 100.0% mortality, respectively, and average survival time of 5.7, 4.3 and 3.1 days respectively. Not only the antifeeding index was dose‐related, but it significantly increased over time in a dose‐related manner. Longer exposure times led to a dose‐related significant increase in larval mortality. The exposure times for 50% mortality were 91.3 h and 62.1 h for 20 and 40 μg protein/insect respectively. The crude extract when exposed to higher temperature or protease treatment lost toxicity, indicating that toxicity was protein mediated. In addition, the liquid medium composition did not influence its insecticidal activity. The effects of the protein extract on midgut cells of second instar larvae of S. littoralis were investigated by using both light and electron microscopy. A progressive bleeding of the midgut epithelium into the gut lumen was observed along with lysis of the epithelium and deterioration of the microvilli.
Leaf litter nitrogen concentration as related to climatic factors in Eurasian forests
Authors: Liu Chunjiang , Berg Björn , Kutsch Werner , Westman Carl J. , Ilvesniemi Hannu , Shen Xiaohui , Shen Guangrong , Chen Xiaobin 
Published: August 2006

ABSTRACTAim  The aim of this study is to determine the patterns of nitrogen (N) concentrations in leaf litter of forest trees as functions of climatic factors, annual average temperature (Temp, °C) and annual precipitation (Precip, dm) and of forest type (coniferous vs. broadleaf, deciduous vs. evergreen, Pinus, etc.).Location  The review was conducted using data from studies across the Eurasian continent.Methods  Leaf litter N concentration was compiled from 204 sets of published data (81 sets from coniferous and 123 from broadleaf forests in Eurasia). We explored the relationships between leaf litter N concentration and Temp and Precip by means of regression analysis. Leaf litter data from N2‐fixing species were excluded from the analysis.Results  Over the Eurasian continent, leaf litter N concentration increased with increasing Temp and Precip within functional groups such as conifers, broadleaf, deciduous, evergreen and the genus Pinus. There were highly significant linear relationships between ln(N) and Temp and Precip (P < 0.001) for all available data combined, as well as for coniferous trees, broadleaf trees, deciduous trees, evergreen trees and Pinus separately. With both Temp and Precip as independent variables in multiple regression equations, the adjusted coefficient of determination () was evidently higher than in simple regressions with either Temp or Precip as independent variable. Standardized regression coefficients showed that Temp had a larger impact than Precip on litter N concentration for all groups except evergreens. The impact of temperature was particularly strong for Pinus.Conclusions  The relationship between leaf litter N concentration and temperature and precipitation can be well described with simple or multiple linear regression equations for forests over Eurasia. In the context of global warming, these regression equations are useful for a better understanding and modelling of the effects of geographical and climatic factors on leaf litter N at a regional and continental scale.
Combination of vinblastine and bleomycin as first line therapy in advanced classic Kaposi's sarcoma
Authors: Brambilla L , Miedico A , Ferrucci S , Romanelli A , Brambati M , Vinci M , Tedeschi L , Boneschi V 
Published: August 2006

AbstractBackground  Classic KS (CKS) mainly affects elderly people, has an irregular course, and is relatively benign for years. However, sometimes the disease may progress rapidly and spread to internal organs, thus necessitating systemic chemotherapy. We therefore decided to carry out a prospective trial using vinblastine and bleomycin, which are active, easy to administer and control, and low cost.Methods  We treated 29 patients affected by CKS with vinblastine i.v., up to 10 mg in combination with bleomycin i.m., 15 IU every 3 weeks. We administered a median of seven cycles of therapy.Results  All the 29 enrolled patients were evaluated: 21% reached a complete response and 76% had an intermediate response. Toxicity was limited. The maximal response was attained in a median of 5 months, with a mean duration of 4 months.Conclusion  The combination of vinblastine and bleomycin achieved a high rate of objective responses in a subgroup of elderly and symptomatic patients, without considerable toxicity. We recommend the combination as first line chemotherapy for advanced CKS.
Treatment of inflammatory dermatoses by tumour necrosis factor antagonists
Authors: Jacobi A , Mahler V , Schuler G , Hertl M 
Published: August 2006

AbstractBackground The treatment of inflammatory skin diseases is at present often empirical as causal therapeutic approaches, based on an incomplete knowledge of the immune pathogenesis, are mostly unavailable. The currently applied treatments can in fact lead to remission of the disease; however, under certain circumstances undesirable side‐effects must be expected. On the basis of experience gained in cytokine modulation therapy of chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, the application of TNF‐α inhibitors represents a novel, more specific, and effective therapeutic option for distinct chronic inflammatory diseases.Patients and methods The current status of the therapeutic effect of TNF‐α blockers is discussed based on our own observations and a review of the current literature. Also discussed are potential undesirable side‐effects and possible contraindications of this therapy.Results and conclusions Based on recent findings, the use of TNF‐α blockers seems to be promising in the treatment of therapy‐resistant inflammatory dermatoses. At present, guidelines for indications and contraindications of anti‐TNF‐α treatment of inflammatory skin disorders are rare. Such guidelines are necessary to improve the efficacy of anticytokine treatment and the reduction of side‐effects.
Extracorporeal photochemotherapy in patients with cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma: is clinical response predictable?
Authors: Rao V , Ryggen K , Aarhaug M , Dai HY , Jørstad S , Moen T 
Published: August 2006

AbstractBackground  Extracorporeal photochemotherapy (ECP) has been accepted as a standard therapy in cutaneous T‐cell lymphomas (CTCL), a category of lymphomas mainly resistant to conventional therapies. Approximately one half of patients demonstrate a reduction in skin affliction by at least 50% within 12 months of therapy and are categorized as responders to ECP. Predictive criteria for selecting patients who will respond to ECP are lacking. Such criteria would however, be of great benefit.Objectives  This study compared T‐cell clonality and serum levels of soluble interleukin‐2 receptor (sIL‐2R), lactate dehydrogenase (LD), neopterin, beta2‐microglobulin (β2‐M) and granzyme B in CTCL patients in order to evaluate their potential usefulness as predictive markers.Patients/methods  Serum and T lymphocytes obtained from 16 patients with CTCL receiving ECP treatment were evaluated in an open retrospective study.Results  We found no evident correlation between detected T‐cell clonality and response to ECP. The non‐responding group had on average a higher level of serum sIL‐2R. This difference was significant after 6 and 12 months of therapy, but not pretreatment. An individual reduction in serum sIL‐2R, neopterin and β2‐M during a 6‐month course of ECP was well correlated to clinical remission.Conclusions  Seven out of 16 patients were classified as responders. Neither T‐cell clonality nor any of the serum markers assessed pretreatment could reliably predict the response to ECP treatment. However, the individual relative changes in sIL‐2R, neopterin and β2‐M during 6 months of ECP treatment coherently displayed correlation to the clinical response, as assessed after 12 months of ECP treatment.
Algorithmic reproduction of asymmetry and border cut‐off parameters according to the ABCD rule for dermoscopy
Authors: Pellacani G , Grana C , Seidenari S 
Published: August 2006

AbstractBackgroud  Semiquantitative algorithms were applied to dermoscopic images to improve the clinical diagnosis for melanoma.Objective  The aim of the study was to develop a computerized method for automated quantification of the ‘A’ (asymmetry) and ‘B’ (border cut‐off) parameters, according to the ABCD rule for dermoscopy, thus reproducing human evaluation.Methods  Three hundred and thirty‐one melanocytic lesion images, referring to 113 melanomas and 218 melanocytic nevi, acquired by means of a digital videodermatoscope, were considered. Images were evaluated by two experienced observers and by using computer algorithms developed by us. Clinical evaluation of asymmetry was performed by attributing scores to shape asymmetry and asymmetry of pigment distribution and structures, whereas computer evaluation of shape and pigment distribution asymmetries were based on the assessment of differences in area and lightness in the two halves of the image, respectively. Borders were evaluated both by clinicians and by the computer, by attributing a score to each border segment ending abruptly. Differences between nevus and melanoma values were evaluated using the chi‐square test, while Cohen's Kappa index for agreement was employed for the evaluation of the concordance between human and computer.Results  Pigment distribution asymmetry appears the most striking parameter for melanoma diagnosis both for human and for automated diagnosis. A good concordance between clinicians and computer evaluation was achieved for all asymmetry parameters, and was excellent for border cut‐off evaluation.Conclusions  These algorithms enable a good reproduction of the ‘A’ and ‘B’ parameters of the ABCD rule for dermoscopy, and appear useful for diagnostic and learning purposes.
How much fruit do fruit‐eating frogs eat? An investigation on the diet of Xenohyla truncata (Lissamphibia: Anura: Hylidae)
Authors: Da Silva H. R. , De Britto‐Pereira M. C. 
Published: August 2006

AbstractThis paper presents the results of a 22‐month survey and the examination of the intestinal content of 356 specimens of Xenohyla truncata (Anura: Hylidae) from Restinga de Maricá, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Our results confirm prior observations that fruits are intrinsic to the diet of these frogs. In addition, these new data increase our understanding of the relationship between frogs and the plants they feed upon. Plant consumption follows availability of fruits in the area, indicating that the diversity of fruits consumed by the frogs does not represent choice, but rather plant phenology and fruit availability.
Screening for Meares–Irlen sensitivity in adults: can assessment methods predict changes in reading speed?
Authors: Hollis Jarrod , Allen Peter M. 
Published: August 2006

AbstractTwo methods of assessing candidates for coloured overlays were compared with the aim of determining which method had the most practical utility. A total of 58 adults were assessed as potential candidates for coloured overlays, using two methods; a questionnaire, which identified self‐reported previous symptoms, and a measure of perceptual distortions immediately prior to testing. Participants were classified as normal, Meares–Irlen sensitive, and borderline sensitive. Reading speed was measured with and without coloured overlays, using the Wilkins Rate of Reading Test and the change in speed was calculated. Participants classified as normal did not show any significant benefit from reading with an overlay. In contrast, a significant reading advantage was found for the borderline and Meares–Irlen participants. Current symptom rating was found to be a significant predictor of the change in reading speed, however the previous symptom rating was not found to be a reliable predictor. These data indicate that the assessment of perceptual distortions immediately prior to measuring colour preference and reading speed is the most meaningful method of assessing pattern glare and determining the utility of coloured overlays.
Comparison of logMAR ETDRS chart and a new computerised staircased procedure for assessment of the visual acuity of children
Authors: Stewart Catherine E. , Hussey Alex , Davies Nigel , Moseley Merrick J. 
Published: August 2006

AbstractThe validity and repeatability of visual acuity measures are particularly important in the detection and monitoring of childhood visual anomalies such as amblyopia. The repeatability and sensitivity of a new computerised visual acuity test, ‘Staircased Procedure’ is compared with the now gold standard visual acuity test, the early treatment of diabetic retinopathy study (ETDRS). Twenty‐seven visually normal children (mean age: 6.7 ± 1.1 years) and 27 children with amblyopia (mean age: 6.1 ± 0.7 years) were tested with the ETDRS and Staircased Procedure. A retest was administered 4–5 weeks later and 30 min later for the visually normal and the amblyopic children, respectively. The staircased procedure produced significantly better visual acuity than the ETDRS for visually normal and amblyopic children. Repeatability was similar for both tests (ETDRS: 0.11 log units; staircased procedure: 0.13 log units). In conclusion, the Staircased Procedure was an acceptable test with high repeatability and validity.
The effect of font and line width on reading speed in people with mild to moderate vision loss
Authors: Rubin Gary S. , Feely Mary , Perera Sylvie , Ekstrom Katherin , Williamson Elizabeth 
Published: August 2006

AbstractPurpose:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of print size, typeface, and line width on reading speed in readers with mild to moderate sight problems.Methods:  A total of 43 patients, most of whom had mild cataract or glaucoma with acuity 6/30 or better (median age = 72; range = 24–88 years), read aloud a selection of texts presented randomly in four sizes (10, 12, 14 and 16 point), for each of four typefaces [Foundry Form Sans (FFS), Helvetica (HV), Tiresias PCfont (TPC), Times New Roman (TNR)] at a standard line width of 70 characters and a viewing distance of 40 cm. A subset of letter sizes and typefaces were tested at two additional line widths (35, 90).Results:  As expected, reading speed increased with print size from a median of 144 words min−1 for 10‐point text to 163 words min−1 for 16‐point text (repeated measures anova, p < 0.0001). There was also a significant effect of typeface with TPC being read about 8 words min−1 faster, on average, than the other fonts (159 words min−1 for TPC vs 151 words min−1 for the other fonts, p < 0.0001). However fonts of the same nominal point size were not equivalent in actual size. When adjusted for the actual horizontal and vertical space occupied, the advantage of TPC was eliminated. There was no effect of line width (p > 0.3). Data from the present study were extrapolated to the general population over age 65. This extrapolation indicated that increasing minimum print size from 10 points to 16 points would increase the proportion of the population able to read fluently (>85 words min−1) from 88.0% to 94.4%.Conclusion:  This study shows that line width and typeface have little influence on reading speed in people with mild to moderate sight problems. Increasing the minimum recommended print size from 10 points to 14 or 16 points would significantly increase the proportion of the population able to read fluently.
End‐box scoring artefact evaluation of the Farnsworth‐Munsell 100‐Hue colour vision test
Authors: Viliūnas V. , Lukauskienė R. , Švegžda A. , Žukauskas A. 
Published: August 2006

AbstractThe scoring artefact in the Farnsworth‐Munsell 100‐Hue test, arising from the grouping of the caps into four boxes, was investigated. The traditional method of scoring performed with the numbers of the anchor caps disregarded and the alternative scoring performed with the numbers of the anchor caps employed, were compared. For the traditional method of scoring, we revealed an increase of the error score of the outside (end‐box) caps when the total error score was above 240. On the contrary for scoring performed with the numbers of the anchor caps employed, the difference between the error score of the outside caps and the average error per cap is not significant. To mitigate the end‐box artefact and to improve the reliability of the Farnsworth‐Munsell 100‐Hue test, corrections to the traditional method of scoring are proposed.
Is colposcopy needed following laser ablation for dysplasia?
Authors: JIN Li , TAN Jeffrey , THOMPSON Derrick , NEESHAM Deborah , QUINN Michael 
Published: August 2006

AbstractAims:  To evaluate the effectiveness of cytology and colposcopy in the follow up of women treated by laser CO2 ablation for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).Methods:  A retrospective analysis of 1784 patients with CIN treated with laser CO2 ablation from 1998 to 2003 at the Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne. Data were collected prospectively in a computerised colposcopy database utilised in the Dysplasia Unit.Results:  There was equal distribution in the study population treated for low‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (LSIL) and high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HSIL), with no significant age difference in both groups (mean 27.6 years). The success rate of treatment of LSIL (94%) was similar to that of HSIL (92%). Fifty‐seven per cent of all failures occurred within the first year of treatment. Colposcopy was more sensitive in detecting intraepithelial neoplasia (SIL) than cytology, whereas cytology was more specific. No case of cancer was diagnosed on follow up.Conclusions:  CO2 laser ablation was equally effective in treating different grades of CIN. There is a continuing incidence of recurrent CIN, even up to five years after initial treatment, which suggests that it is necessary for patients to adhere to long‐term follow up. The combination of cytology and colposcopic assessment is essential for surveillance of SIL in the initial two years after treatment.
What do obstetricians think about media influences on their patients?
Authors: HANDFIELD Bronny , TURNBULL Sue , BELL Robin J. 
Published: August 2006

AbstractBackground:  Patients are playing an increasingly active role in decision‐making about their care and are becoming increasingly informed about their health. Traditionally, sources of information about pregnancy and birth were family and friends and, in more recent times, antenatal classes. Evidence suggests that the media, particularly the Internet, is an increasingly influential source of information about illness and health.Aims:  The aim of this study was to survey Australian Fellows of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) about their perceptions of sources of patient information about pregnancy and birth, particularly the media and the Internet.Methods:  A two‐page survey with a reply paid envelope was sent to all Australian Fellows of RANZCOG. Most questions only allowed a selection of prespecified categorical options. Some questions allowed open‐ended replies that were assessed using thematic analysis.Results:  RANZCOG fellows thought that family and friends were the most important source of information for patients about pregnancy and birth followed by formal antenatal education, although they ranked the influence of the Internet above that of free‐to‐air television. Responses suggested that women in both the public and the private sectors were accessing the Internet.Conclusions:  Fellows felt that their patients are actively involved in decisions about their care during pregnancy and birth and that the media influences their knowledge and attitudes. The Internet appears to have an increasingly important role in providing women with information. Obstetricians need to be aware of what their patients are accessing on the Internet.