Evolutionary analysis of Pinus densata Masters, a putative Tertiary hybrid : 1. Allozyme variation

Allozyme differentiation at 13 loci was studied in populations of Pinus tabulaeformis, P. densata, and P. yunnanensis from China. It was previously suggested that P. densata represents a Tertiary hybrid between P. tabulaeformis and P. yunnanensis. The observed levels of allozyme variation within and among the investigated species were comparable to those of other conifers. P. tabulaeformis differed markedly from P. yunnanensis with respect to allozyme frequencies, while P. densata was intermediate between the two putative parents. There was evidence of homozygote excess in embryos from all investigated species, as compared to Hardy-Weinberg expectations. The observed allozyme composition of P. densata conformed to earlier morphological and molecular evidence indicating hybrid origin of this taxon. It was proposed that fusion of gene pools from P. tabulaeformis and P. yunnanensis has led to adaptive evolution of a new species, P. densata.

Diagnostic criteria and surgical procedure for megaesophagus--a personal experience

Megaesophagus is the end-stage of achalasia cardiae. It is the result of peristaltic disorders and slow decompensation of the muscular layer of the esophagus. The aim of this article is to detail the diagnostic criteria and surgical management of megaesophagus. Criteria were acute bending of esophagus axis; lack of esophagus peristalsis, and no response to stimulation in the manometric test; and Los Angeles C/D esophagitis in the endoscopic examination. Between 1991 and 2004 seven patients (5 females, 2 males; age, 51-67 years; average age, 59 +/- 8 years) were treated. A bypass made from the pedunculated part of the jejunum connecting the part of esophagus above the narrowing with the praepyloric part of the stomach was made. Access was by an abdominal approach. A jejunum bypass was made in six patients with megaesophagus. A transhiatal esophageal resection was carried out, and in the second stage a supplementary esophagus was made from the right half of the colon on the ileocolic vessels in one patient who had experienced two earlier unsuccessful operations. Symptoms of dysphagia, recurrent inflammation of the respiratory tract, and pain subsided in all patients. Complications were not reported in the postoperative period. All patients survived. Subsequent radiographic and endoscopic examination showed very good outcome. The jejunum bypass gave very good results in the surgical treatment of megaesophagus.

Temperature coefficients of Li-ion battery single electrode potentials and related entropy changes - revisited

Usually the potentials of Li-ion battery electrodes (at constant temperature) are expressed against metallic lithium, assuming that it equals zero. In the case of potential temperature coefficients, and hence entropies, no similar assumption can be applied, as it is against the third principle of thermodynamics. Here, single electrode potential temperature coefficients were estimated using a 'negligible thermal diffusion potential assumption'. The open circuit voltage (Δφi) dependence on temperature T, for three Li-ion battery cathodes, was measured in non-isothermal symmetrical cells (both electrodes had the same composition but were kept in different temperatures). The measured values were interpreted as single cathode (LiMn2O4, LiFePO4 and LiCoO2) potential temperature coefficients dφi/dT, assuming that Soret and Thomson effects are negligible. The single cathode potential temperature coefficients, estimated in such a way, were positive (dφ(LiMn2O4)/dT = 0.86 mV K-1, dφ(LiFePO4)/dT = 0.86 mV K-1 and dφ(LiCoO2)/dT = 0.83 mV K-1). In addition to the measurements in non-isothermal cells, the temperature coefficients of the open circuit voltage of isothermal cells consisting of these cathodes and a metallic lithium reference (dE/dT) were determined. In this case, all temperature coefficients of the cell voltage were negative (dE(Li|LiMn2O4)/dT = -0.20 mV K-1, dE(Li|LiFePO4)/dT = -0.08 mV K-1 and dE(Li|LiCoO2)/dT = -0.25 mV K-1). The temperature coefficient of the single metallic-lithium electrode, dφLi/dT, was calculated from the temperature coefficients dE/dT of isothermal cells consisting of the cathodes and a lithium counter-electrode and the dφi/dT values measured in non-isothermal cells: dE/dT = dφi/dT - dφLi/dT. The dφLi/dT value was 1.03 mV K-1. The measured difference in the dφ/dT values for metallic lithium and graphite (LiC6) anodes was small (dE/dT = dφ(C6Li)/dT - dφLi/dT = -0.08 mV K-1). Literature data on the temperature coefficients of the isothermal cell open circuit voltage containing different electrodes at different states of charge (SOC) and metallic-lithium counter electrodes were used for the calculation of single electrode properties, taking into account that dφLi/dT = 1.03 mV K-1. The temperature coefficients of all single electrodes were positive for different SOC values and ranged between 1.69 mV K-1 and 0.84 mV K-1. The values of entropy change, ΔSi, for reversible single electrode reactions were all positive (for different states of charge) and ranged between ca. 70 J mol-1 K-1 and 120 J mol-1 K-1.

Distribution of mast cells and eosinophils in nasal polyps from atopic and nonatopic subjects: a morphometric study

The pathogenetic mechanism of nasal polyps remains unknown, although polyps seem to be an expression of chronic nasal inflammation of both allergic and nonallergic origin. The goal of our study was to compare the distribution mast cells and eosinophils (cells traditionally associated with allergic inflammation) in nasal polyps from well defined atopic and nonatopic patients, using advanced morphometric analysis system. Nasal polyps were removed during routine nasal polypectomy performed in 17 atopic and 19 nonatopic patients. Parafin sections of nasal polyps were stained with haematoxilin/eosin, chromotrope R2 or toluidine blue, and light microscopy, assisted with computerized picture analysis system, was used to count the number of cells in the superficial and stromal layer of the mucosa. Regardless of the presence or absence of atopy, eosinophils were predominant cells in the polyps, and both eosinophils and mast cells were more abundant in the superficial layer than in the stromal layer of the mucosa. The density of eosinophils in both layers and mast cells in the stromal layer was similar in atopic and nonatopic patients. Only the density of mast cells in the superficial layer of the mucosa was slightly higher (p < 0.005 in atopic compared to nonatopic patients): In both groups of patients a significant correlation between the number of mast cells and eosinophils in the superficial layer of the polyp mucosa was found (r = 0.84; p < 0.001). Our study demonstrates that eosinophils and mast cells are abundant in nasal polyps from both atopic and nonatopic patients and that mast cells seem to be more superficially distributed in atopic compared to nonatopic patients.

Mezlocillin and carbenicillin: a clinical comparison of serious systemic infections in surgical patients

Eighty patients suffering from severe cases of systemic surgical infections were enrolled in a prospective, controlled randomized study to compare mezlocillin and carbenicillin. The daily dosage was chosen according to international recommendation, i.e. 4 g mezlocillin 6-hourly and 5 g carbenicillin 4-hourly. A clinical, bacteriological and combined "overall" evaluation was made. There was a distinct trend in favour of the mezlocillin group which was not statistically significant. The treatment was well tolerated; no side-effects were observed.

A message of hope: creation of the Faces of Lung Cancer project for increasing awareness of clinical trials

In 2002, the Thoracic Oncology Advocacy Program at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute was created with a mission to contribute to the prevention and cure of lung cancer by embracing the patient perspective. In an effort to increase awareness of clinical trials (CTs) and to humanize the CT process, members of the advocacy programme were involved in the creation of the Faces of Lung Cancer project. Twelve lung cancer patients who participated in a CT, four caregivers of patients who had been on a trial and four thoracic health care professionals were interviewed and photographed by a professional photographer with prior experience in photo-documentary work. Preliminary results indicate just the process of participating in the Faces of Lung Cancer project and creating the photo essay has had a positive impact on the lives of cancer patients and their caregivers. Formal evaluation of the Faces of Lung Cancer project is underway; however, preliminary results indicate that the project is viewed as successful in terms of conveying a message of hope and increasing awareness. By including visual displays, in conjunction with patient interviews, the photo essay is able to generate and blend powerful information and images that provide a richer, more complete portrayal of the context of a patient's experience.

A bioinformatics screen reveals hox and chromatin remodeling factors at the Drosophila histone locus

BACKGROUND

Cells orchestrate histone biogenesis with strict temporal and quantitative control. To efficiently regulate histone biogenesis, the repetitive Drosophila melanogaster replication-dependent histone genes are arrayed and clustered at a single locus. Regulatory factors concentrate in a nuclear body known as the histone locus body (HLB), which forms around the locus. Historically, HLB factors are largely discovered by chance, and few are known to interact directly with DNA. It is therefore unclear how the histone genes are specifically targeted for unique and coordinated regulation.

RESULTS

To expand the list of known HLB factors, we performed a candidate-based screen by mapping 30 publicly available ChIP datasets of 27 unique factors to the Drosophila histone gene array. We identified novel transcription factor candidates, including the Drosophila Hox proteins Ultrabithorax (Ubx), Abdominal-A (Abd-A), and Abdominal-B (Abd-B), suggesting a new pathway for these factors in influencing body plan morphogenesis. Additionally, we identified six other factors that target the histone gene array: JIL-1, hormone-like receptor 78 (Hr78), the long isoform of female sterile homeotic (1) (fs(1)h) as well as the general transcription factors TBP associated factor 1 (TAF-1), Transcription Factor IIB (TFIIB), and Transcription Factor IIF (TFIIF).

CONCLUSIONS

Our foundational screen provides several candidates for future studies into factors that may influence histone biogenesis. Further, our study emphasizes the powerful reservoir of publicly available datasets, which can be mined as a primary screening technique.

A bioinformatics screen reveals Hox and chromatin remodeling factors at the Drosophila histone locus

Cells orchestrate histone biogenesis with strict temporal and quantitative control. To efficiently regulate histone biogenesis, the repetitive Drosophila melanogaster replication-dependent histone genes are arrayed and clustered at a single locus. Regulatory factors concentrate in a nuclear body known as the histone locus body (HLB), which forms around the locus. Historically, HLB factors are largely discovered by chance, and few are known to interact directly with DNA. It is therefore unclear how the histone genes are specifically targeted for unique and coordinated regulation. To expand the list of known HLB factors, we performed a candidate-based screen by mapping 30 publicly available ChIP datasets and 27 factors to the Drosophila histone gene array. We identified novel transcription factor candidates, including the Drosophila Hox proteins Ultrabithorax, Abdominal-A and Abdominal-B, suggesting a new pathway for these factors in influencing body plan morphogenesis. Additionally, we identified six other transcription factors that target the histone gene array: JIL-1, Hr78, the long isoform of fs(1)h as well as the generalized transcription factors TAF-1, TFIIB, and TFIIF. Our foundational screen provides several candidates for future studies into factors that may influence histone biogenesis. Further, our study emphasizes the powerful reservoir of publicly available datasets, which can be mined as a primary screening technique.

Mezlocillin in serious surgical infections caused by carbenicillin-resistant bacteria

Fifty-eight surgical patients suffering from severe bacterial infections caused by mezlocillin-sensitive, carbenicillin and/or gentamicin-resistant bacteria were treated with mezlocillin in 1980. At the end of therapy, the infection had been eliminated in 52 patients; they were cured. The remaining six did not need any additional antibacterial treatment. Sixty-two of the bacterial strains isolated had been eliminated, seven markedly reduced in number and three persisted. No development of resistance or side-effects was observed. A randomized comparative study was conducted at the same time.

Reflex influence of carotid baroreceptor inactivation on respiratory resistance in humans

Our previous study demonstrated that selective carotid baroreceptors activation decreases airway resistance. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of carotid baroreceptor inactivation on the reflex change of respiratory resistance. Twenty healthy men aged between 20 and 25 were included in the study. Selective inactivation of carotid baroreceptors was induced by generating a positive pressure of 40 mmHg for 5 s in two capsules placed bilaterally on the neck over the bifurcation of the carotid arteries. The oscillatory method (Siregnost FD5, Siemens) was used to measure continuously respiratory resistance. Inactivation of carotid baroreceptors produced a short increase in respiratory resistance by 0.39 +/- 0.01(SE) mbar/l/s, i.e., 21.7% above the resting level. We conclude that in humans, carotid baroreceptors might have a background contribution to bronchodilator tone. This observation seems to be important for clinical situations of impairment of baroreflex function.

Impairment of the baroreflex control of human respiratory resistance with age

BACKGROUND

The mechanism responsible for the central baroreflex resetting with age are an area of limited knowledge. We previously demonstrated that in subjects aged above 50 the airway resistance did not change in response to baroreceptor activation, whereas in younger volunteers the airway resistance significantly decreased.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of carotid baroreceptor inactivation on the reflex change of respiratory resistance, in the course of aging.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

80 healthy men, divided in four groups: aged 20-30 (Group I), 31-40 (Group II), 41-50 (Group III), and 51-60 (Group IV) were included in the study. The selective inactivation of carotid baroreceptors was induced by generating a positive pressure of 40 mmHg for 5 s in two capsules placed bilaterally on the neck over the bifurcation of the carotid arteries. The oscillatory method (Siregnost FD5, Siemens) was used to measure continuously respiratory resistance.

RESULTS

Inactivation of carotid baroreceptors produced a short increase in respiratory resistance by 0.38 +/- 0.01SE mbar/l/s, i.e., 21.7% above the resting level in Group I and by 0.25 +/- 0.01 mbar/l/s in Group II. In the two older groups (III and IV) respiratory resistance did not change in response to baroreceptors inactivation.

CONCLUSIONS

In humans aged above 40, carotid baroreceptors do not contribute to bronchodilator tone, which causes imbalance between the activities of upper airway and chest wall inspiratory muscles leading to a collapsing effect on the upper airway.

[Comparative evaluation of postoperative complication in the reconstructive surgery of the esophagus]

The paper presents 78 patients with stenosis of the middle thoracic segment of the esophagus. The substitute, being pedunculated intestinal graft, was brought to the neck through the retrosternal space. Early post-operative complications occurred in 8.9% of patients. Post-operative mortality rate was 7.6%. The most dangerous complication after esophageal plastic surgery is blood supply insufficiency. It was observed in 2 cases. Other complications included anastomotic leaks and respiratory distress syndrome. The authors emphasize that frequency of post-operative complications and mortality are related with the patient general condition and extent of the surgery.

[Intraoperative portography in operations for resection of pancreas neoplasms]

Since 1993 during pancreatic resection routine intraoperative portography has been employed. Thus we are able to establish infiltration engaging portal vein and its branches. Facilitating decision making about resectability of the tumor. 29 portographies were performed. In eight cases malignant infiltration on portal vein was established. Because of that in seven cases no radical resection was undertaken.

A carnitine transporter at the blood-brain barrier modulates sleep via glial lipid metabolism in Drosophila

To regulate brain function, peripheral compounds must traverse the blood-brain barrier (BBB), an interface between the brain and the circulatory system. To determine whether specific transport mechanisms are relevant for sleep, we conducted a BBB-specific inducible RNAi knockdown (iKD) screen for genes affecting sleep in Drosophila. We observed reduced sleep with knockdown of solute carrier CG6126, a carnitine transporter, as determined by isotope flux. Our findings suggest that CG6126 regulation of sleep is through the role of the carnitine shuttle in regulating fatty acid metabolism as lipid droplets accumulate in the brains of CG6126 BBB iKD flies. Knocking down mitochondrial carnitine transferases in non-BBB glial cells mimicked the reduced sleep of the CG6126 BBB iKD flies, while bypassing the necessity of carnitine transport with dietary medium-chain fatty acids or palmitoylcarnitine rescued sleep. We propose that carnitine transport via CG6126 promotes brain fatty acid metabolism necessary for maintaining sleep.

[Radiofrequency catheter ablation of type I atrial flutter]

PURPOSE

To verify the efficacy and safety of the creation of a barrier with radiofrequency (RF) in the tricuspid annulus and the vena cava ostium (TA-IVC).

METHODS

Nine consecutive patients, 7 males, with age ranging from 36 to 76 years, with paroxysmal (7 patients) or permanent (2) type I atrial flutter (negative P wave in lead II, III and F) were submitted to RF ablation of TA-IVC istmo. One deflectable catheter with 4mm size tip was introduced into the right ventricle apex and pulled back to the inferior vena cava. When the atrial electrogram was detected the RF application was started. The RF was applied (20 watts during 60s) up to the proximity of inferior vena cava ostium. The end point was to stop atrial flutter. Then a vigorous atrial stimulation protocol, including isoproterenol infusion was used. In the next day, patients were submitted to transesophageal stimulation with the same protocol.

RESULTS

Atrial flutter was interrupted in all patients (100%) with 4 to 28 (mean 16.7 +/- 7.7) applications. Eight patients (88.8%) with one session and 1 (11.1%) with two sessions. The mean time spent to stop the atrial flutter with one application was 30.5 +/- 18.5s. There were no complications. After a mean follow up of 3 +/- 1.6 month all patients (100%) are asymptomatic. Two of them are taking propranolol to control symptomatic atrial and ventricular ectopic beats.

CONCLUSION

RF ablation of the TA-IVC istmo is efficient and safe in a short term follow up to interrupt and prevent re-induction and recurrence of type I atrial flutter.

[Occurrence of epistaxis in relation to seasonal factors]

A retrospective study of the occurrence of epistaxis in relation to seasonal factors--mean monthly air temperature and atmospheric pressure is presented. During three consecutive years a total of 18 625 patients were seen in the ENT Clinic: 1,357 (7.3%) were suffering from epistaxis (about 38 patients with epistaxis per month). The epistaxis appeared more frequently in men (60.1%), aged from 41 to 60 years (41.3%) The Increased occurrence of epistaxis was related to the low temperature period. The highest occurrence of epistaxis was observed during the cold season--between December and April (from 9.2 to 13.36% of all patients seen per month), suggesting the relationship between epistaxis and infections of the upper respiratory tract. No relation between epistaxis and mean monthly atmospheric pressure was observed.