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Cyclooxygenase (COX)-derived prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) affects many mechanisms that have been shown to play roles in carcinogenesis. Recently, we found that, in androgen-independent prostate cancer PC3 cells, PGE2 acts through an intracrine mechanism by which its uptake by the prostaglandin transporter (PGT) results in increased intracellular PGE2 (iPGE2 ), leading to enhanced cell proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and loss of cell adhesion to collagen I. These iPGE2 -mediated effects were dependent on hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α (HIF-1α), whose expression increased upon epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) transactivation by a subset of intracellular PGE2 receptors. Here, we aimed to study the role of COX in PGE2 protumoral effects in PC3 cells and found that the effects were prevented by inhibition of COX-2, which highlights its crucial role amplifying the levels of iPGE2 . Treatment with exogenous PGE2 determined a transcriptional increase in COX-2 expression, which was abolished by genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of PGT. PGE2 -induced increase in COX-2 expression and, thereby, in transcriptional increase in HIF-1α expression was due to EGFR activation, leading to the activation of Phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt, Extracellular signal -regulated kinases 1/2, p38 and Mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinase-1 (PI3K/Akt, Erk1/2, p38 and MSK-1). Collectively, the data suggest that EGFR-dependent COX-2 upregulation by a novel positive feedback loop triggered by iPGE2 underlies the intracrine pro-tumoral effects of PGE2 in PC3 cells. Therefore, this feedback loop may be relevant in prostate cancer for the maintenance of PGE2 -dependent cancer cell growth through amplifying the activity of the COX-2 pathway.

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) increases cell proliferation and stimulates migratory and angiogenic abilities in prostate cancer cells. However, the effects of PGE2 on non-transformed prostate epithelial cells are unknown, despite the fact that PGE2 overproduction has been found in benign hyperplastic prostates. In the present work we studied the effects of PGE2 in immortalized, non-malignant prostate epithelial RWPE-1 cells and found that PGE2 increased cell proliferation, cell migration, and production of vascular endothelial growth factor-A, and activated in vitro angiogenesis. These actions involved a non-canonic intracrine mechanism in which the actual effector was intracellular PGE2 (iPGE2 ) instead of extracellular PGE2 : inhibition of the prostaglandin uptake transporter (PGT) or antagonism of EP receptors prevented the effects of PGE2 , which indicated that PGE2 activity depended on its carrier-mediated translocation from the outside to the inside of cells and that EP receptors located intracellularly (iEP) mediated the effects of PGE2 . iPGE2 acted through transactivation of epidermal growth factor-receptor (EGFR) by iEP, leading to increased expression and activity of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α). Interestingly, iPGE2 also mediates the effects of PGE2 on prostate cancer PC3 cells through the axis iPGE2 -iEP receptors-EGFR-HIF-1α. Thus, this axis might be responsible for the growth-stimulating effects of PGE2 on prostate epithelial cells, thereby contributing to prostate proliferative diseases associated with chronic inflammation. Since this PGT-dependent non-canonic intracrine mechanism of PGE2 action operates in both benign and malignant prostate epithelial cells, PGT inhibitors should be tested as a novel therapeutic modality to treat prostate proliferative disease.

Despite evidence of internal waves in the NW Iberian upwelling region, their action and role on nutrient supply dynamics and phytoplankton community structure remain unexplored. A multidisciplinary approach, combining analysis of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images acquired during the summer months of 2008–2011, together with high-frequency samplings carried out in the Ria de Vigo in August 2013 during spring (CHAOS1) and neap tides (CHAOS2), was used to characterize: (1) the internal wave activity, (2) its influence on mixing and nutrient supply, and (3) its role on phytoplankton community. SAR images revealed that internal waves were more energetic during spring tides. Turbulent mixing was higher during CHAOS1-springs (Kz =1.3 [1.0–2.0, 95% confidence interval] × 10−3 m2 s−1) compared to CHAOS2-neaps (Kz = 0.7 [0.5–1.0] × 10−3 m2 s−1), and as a result nitrate diffusive fluxes were approximately fourfold higher (35 [17–73] mmol m−2 d−1) during CHAOS1-springs. The sampling covered a transition from relaxation-stratification (CHAOS1-springs) to intensifying upwelling (CHAOS2-neaps) conditions, resulting in nitrate supply (including both diffusive and advective fluxes) being about 50% higher during CHAOS2-neaps. The phytoplankton community, which was overwhelmingly dominated by diatoms in both cruises, exhibited a shift in species composition, with an increase in the abundance of large Chaetoceros spp. during CHAOS2-neaps. About 50% of the primary production in the ecosystem during periods of upwelling relaxation-stratification could be sustained by enhanced nitrate diffusive fluxes during spring tides. Therefore, even in coastal upwelling regions, turbulent mixing driven by internal waves could play an important role in controlling phytoplankton productivity and community structure.

Background Despite the socioeconomic importance of allergic rhinitis (AR), very few prospective studies have been performed under conditions of routine clinical practice and with a sufficiently long observation period outside the clinical trial scenario. We prospectively estimated the direct and indirect costs of AR in patients attending specialized clinics in Spain. Methods Patients were recruited at random from allergy outpatient clinics in 101 health centers throughout Spain over 12 months. We performed a multicenter, observational, prospective study under conditions of routine clinical practice. We analyzed direct costs from a funder perspective (health care costs) and from a societal perspective (health care and non–health care costs). Indirect costs (absenteeism and presenteeism [productivity lost in the workplace]) were also calculated. The cost of treating conjunctivitis was evaluated alongside that of AR. Results The total mean cost of AR per patient-year (n=498) was €2,326.70 (direct, €553.80; indirect, €1,772.90). Direct costs were significantly higher in women (€600.34 vs. €484.46, P=0.02). Total costs for intermittent AR were significantly lower than for persistent AR (€1,484.98 vs €2,655.86, P

New approaches are needed to the therapy of advanced prostate cancer. This study determined the effect of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) antagonists, JMR-132 and JV-1-38 on growth of PC3 tumors as well as on angiogenesis and metastasis through the evaluation of various factors that contribute largely to the progression of prostate cancer. Human PC3 androgen-independent prostate cancer cells were injected subcutaneously into nude mice. The treatment with JMR-132 (10 μg/day) or JV-1-38 (20 μg/day) lasted 41 days. We also evaluated the effects of JMR-132 and JV-1-38 on proliferation, cell adhesion and migration in PC-3 cells in vitro. Several techniques (Western blot, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, ELISA and zymography) were used to evaluate the expression levels of GHRH receptors and its splice variants, GHRH, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α, metalloproteinases (MMPs) -2 and -9, β-catenin and E-cadherin. GHRH antagonists suppressed the proliferation of PC-3 cells in vitro and significantly inhibited growth of PC3 tumors. After treatment with these analogues, we found an increase in expression of GHRH receptor accompanied by a decrease of GHRH levels, a reduction in both VEGF and HIF-1α expression and in active forms of MMP-2 and MMP-9, a significant increase in levels of membrane-associated β-catenin and a significant decline in E-cadherin. These results support that the blockade of GHRH receptors can modulate elements involved in angiogenesis and metastasis. Consequently, GHRH antagonists could be considered as suitable candidates for therapeutic trials in the management of androgen-independent prostate cancer.

Summary Objectives Type 2 familial partial lipodystrophy (FPLD2) is a rare adipose tissue (AT) disease caused by mutations in LMNA, in which lipomas appear occasionally. In this study, we aimed to histologically characterize FPLD2-associated lipomatosis and study the expression of genes and proteins involved in cell cycle control, mitochondrial function, inflammation and adipogenesis. Design and patients One lipoma and perilipoma fat from each of four subjects with FPLD2 and 10 control subjects were analysed by optical microscopy. The presence of inflammatory cells was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Real-time RT-PCR and Western blot were used to evaluate gene and protein levels. Results Adipocytes from lipodystrophic patients were significantly larger than those of controls, in both the lipomas and perilipoma fat. Lipodystrophic AT exhibited CD68+ macrophages and CD3+ lymphocytes infiltration. TP53 expression was reduced in all types of lipomas. At protein level, C/EBPβ, p53 and pRb were severely disturbed in both lipodystrophic lipomas and perilipoma fat coming from lipoatrophic areas, whereas the expression of CEBPα was normal. Mitochondrial function genes were less expressed in lipoatrophic fat. In both lipomas and perilipoma fat from lipoatrophic areas, the expression of adipogenes was lower than controls. Conclusions Even in lipomas, the adipogenic machinery is impaired in lipodystrophic fat coming from lipoatrophic regions in FPLD2, although the histological phenotype is near-normal, exhibiting low-grade inflammatory features. Our results suggest that the p53 pathway and some adipogenic proteins, such as CEBPα, could contribute to the maintenance of this near normal phenotype in the remnant AT present in these patients.

I. Suarez, G. Bodega and B. Fernandez (2010) Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology36, 422–435 Upregulation of α-synuclein expression in the rat cerebellum in experimental hepatic encephalopathy Aims: The overexpression of α-synuclein has been associated with neurodegenerative diseases, especially when the protein aggregates to form insoluble structures. The present study examined the effect of chronic hyperammonaemia on α-synuclein expression in the rat cerebellum following portacaval anastomosis (PCA). Methods: Immunohistochemical and western blot determinations were performed 1 month and 6 months after the PCA procedure. Results: A time-dependent increase in α-synuclein expression was seen in the cerebellar grey matter compared with the controls. At 1 month post PCA, α-synuclein-immunopositive material was observed in the molecular layer, while the Purkinje cells showed weak α-synuclein expression, and α-synuclein aggregates were observed throughout the granular layer. At 6 months post PCA, α-synuclein expression was significantly increased compared with the controls. α-synuclein-immunostained astroglial cells were also found; the Bergmann glial cells showed α-synuclein-positive processes in the molecular layer of PCA-exposed rats, and in the granular layer, perivascular astrocytes showed intense α-synuclein immunoreactivity, as indicated by colocalization of α-synuclein with glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). In addition, ubiquitin-immunoreactive inclusions were present in PCA-exposed rats, although they did not colocalize with α-synuclein. Western blotting performed at 6 months post PCA showed a reduction in the level of soluble α-synuclein compared with 1 month post PCA and the controls; this reduction was concomitant with an increase in the insoluble form of α-synuclein. Conclusions: Although the precise mechanism by which α-synuclein aggregates in PCA-treated rats remains unknown, the present data suggest an important role for this protein in the onset and progression of hepatic encephalopathy, probably via its expression in astroglial cells.

BACKGROUND There is little known on the involvement of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in the metastatic cascade of human prostate cancer, that is, cell proliferation, cell–cell adhesion, extracellular-matrix degradation, and migration/invasion. Here we evaluated the expression of related biomarker proteins (cyclin D1, metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9, and E-cadherin) in human androgen-dependent (LNCaP) and independent (PC3) prostate cancer cells. METHODS Reverse transcriptase (RT)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR), gelatin zymography, Western blotting, confocal immunofluorescence microscopy, and assays on cell proliferation, adhesion, wound-healing, migration and random homing were performed. RESULTS VIP increased cell proliferation and cyclin D1 expression whereas it decreased cell adhesion and E-cadherin expression in LNCaP and PC3 cells. VIP enhanced the gelatinolytic activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9. Semiquantitative RT-PCR assays showed that VIP stimulated mRNA levels of these MMPs and suppressed mRNA levels of its inhibitory protein RECK. VIP promoted cell invasion and migration, and the responses were faster according to the most aggressive status in cancer progression (androgen-independence). The involvement of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) was demonstrated since the anti-inflammatory agent curcumin blocked VIP effects on the above biomarkers in both cell lines. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these results and the presence of κB sites on gene promoter of cyclin D1, MMPs and, possibly, E-cadherin suggest that VIP may act as a cytokine in an early metastatic stage of human prostate cancer through the NF-κB/MMPs-RECK/E-cadherin system. Our findings may help to define novel targets and agents with potential usefulness in prostate cancer therapy. Prostate 69: 774–786, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Zusammenfassung. Neutrophile Granulozyten aus dem peripheren Blut von Paracoccidioidomykose-Patienten toteten und bauten Paracoccidioides brasiliensis schlechter ab als solche von Gesunden oder von Patienten mit anderen Krankheiten. Die Abtotungsdefizienz war jedoch weniger spezifisch als die Abbaudefizienz, und die Korrelation beider war gering. Daraus wird geschlossen, das die Abbau-und die Abtotungsfahigkeit Neutrophiler fur P. brasiliensis nicht streng miteinander verschrankte Vorgange sind und das der Hauptmangel der Neutrophilenfunktion bei Paracoccidioidomykose-Patienten die mangelnde Abbaufahiegkeit fur P. brasiliensis ist. Summary. Peripheral blood neutrophils (PMN) from patients with paracoccidioidomycosis killed and digested Paracoccidioides brasiliensis much less than did PMN from normal individuals or from patients with other diseases. However, deficiency in killing ability was less specific than digestive deficiency and correlated poorly with it. We conclude that the capacities of PMN to digest and kill P. brasiliensis are not intimately related phenomena, and that in paracoccidioidomycosis the key deficiency of neutrophil function is that of digestion of P. brasiliensis.

Refractory neonatal supra-ventricular tachycardia may require the use of flecainide as anti-arrhythmic. Close control of plasma levels is mandatory due to pro-arrhythmic complications. However, inadvertent hemolysis during blood sampling may cause an increase in measured plasma flecainide concentrations. We conclude, therefore, that dosing of the drug should be always done with caution, and in case of suspected haemolysis plasma levels should be repeated with a new blood sample.

Tetrasomy of short arm of chromosome 9 constitutes a clinically recognizable chromosomal syndrome. Isochromosome 9p shows a strong propensity to tissue-limited mosaicism. It occurs predominantly in peripheral blood cultures, often at a lower frequency or even absent in skin, amniotic fluid or chorionic villous cell cultures. Tissue-limited nature of mosaicism may render prenatal detection of this condition very difficult. Herein, we report two new cases of mosaic tetrasomy 9p. Conventional cytogenetics (CC) and FISH studies demonstrated a differential expression of the mosaicism in several tissues. We review the literature and discuss the implications of these findings in cytogenetic prenatal diagnosis.

New copper(II) complexes of asymmetrical tetra- dentate Schiff bases containing pyrazine have been prepared and thoroughly characterised by elemental analysis, IR and electronic spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and magnetic measurements. Two alternative methods were used in the isolation of the complexes: template synthesis in the pre- paration of Cu(SalDpyz)ClO4 (HSalDPyz = derived from the condensation of salicylaldehyde, acetylpyrazine and 1,2- ethylendiamine, 2-methyl-1,2-propylendiamine, 1,2-pheny- lendiamine) and direct interaction between copper per- chlorate and the corresponding Schiff base, as in the isola- tion of Cu(AEPyz)(ClO4) (HAEPyz = (Z)-4-(2-{(2-{((E)-1- (pyrazinyl)ethylidene)amino} ethyl)amino)-3-penten-2-one)). (Cu(SalEn)(py)(OClO3))(Cu(SalEn)(py))ClO4 (1) (SalEn = 4-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-3-aza-3-buten-1-amino, py = pyridine), metal precursor in the preparation of Cu(SalEnpyz)(ClO4) (HSalEnpyz = 2-{E(2-{((E)-1-(2-pyrazinyl)ethylidene)amino}- ethyl)imino)methyl}phenol), was crystallographically charac- terised. The crystal structure of (Cu(AEpyz))ClO4 (2) is also reported.

The physical properties of the ternary compound Ag2GeSe3 have been scarcely studied. In this work we present the complete characterization of this material synthesized by direct melting of the constituent elements in their stoichiometric ratios inside evacuated quartz ampoules. The characterization was performed using ATD, EDX, TEM and X-ray diffraction techniques. The thermograms show the existence of a single phase at 574 °C. From the EDX analysis a stoichiometric ratio of Ag: 1.42 (±2.97%), Ge: 1.23 (±3.32%) and Se: 3.35 (±0.92%) is obtained. X-ray analysis indicates that the compound crystallizes in the monoclinic system with cell parameters of a = 7.7516(1) A, b = 10.874(4) A, c = 7.318(1) A, β= 115.82(1)°. The TEM analysis is not conclusive yet about the crystalline system and cell parameters.

previously carried out in naive control neonatal rats. 4 In females, the functional blockade of the d-receptor by neonatal naltrindole treatment did not modify the sympatholytic eAect of clonidine but prevented clonidine induced antinociception. Conversely, in males naltrindole treatment allowed the appearance of clonidine antinociception and the sympatholytic eAect of clonidine. 5 The results indicate that the d-receptor is involved in the modulation of antinociceptive and sympatholytic responses to clonidine in neonatal rats and suggest the existence of sex diAerences in the interactions between d-opioid and a2-adrenergic receptors.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of modified porcine surfactant (Curosurf®) given either by a simplified slow delivery technique or by the standard bolus method, on pulmonary gas exchange, lung mechanics, and surfactant distribution in rats with respiratory failure produced by lung lavage. Twelve rats with respiratory failure induced by lung lavage received 200 mg·kg−1 body weight (b.w.) of tagged porcine surfactant, either by the standard bolus delivery technique or by a simplified 1-min intratracheal infusion method, not requiring interruption of mechanical ventilation. Cardiovascular parameters, arterial blood gases, and pulmonary mechanics were measured repeatedly. Surfactant distribution was also measured by dye-tagged microbeadspheres. After surfactant administration, there were no overall major differences between groups in mean heart rate, blood pressure, arterial blood gases, dynamic lung compliance, respiratory system resistance, and pulmonary distribution of exogenous surfactant. However, after 180 min pulmonary gas exchange was better and compliance higher in the bolus than the 1-min infusion group. A transient decrease in blood pressure and heart rate was observed in the bolus group; this side effect was not seen in animals treated with the simplified 1-min infusion method. We conclude that in rats subjected to lung lavage, the infusion of porcine surfactant by a simplified 1-min procedure produced similar short-term effects compared to the same dose of surfactant given by the bolus method. We speculate that tracheal bolus dosing is highly effective and might be the preferable delivery method for porcine surfactant. Dosing by the simplified method described appears less effective, but since no significant differences were observed, and since it produced less acute adverse effects, it could be used when clinical circumstances preclude rapid delivery. Pediatr Pulmonol. 1998; 26:129–134. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

This study was conducted to investigate the influence of treatment with fraxetin (7,8-dihydroxy-6-methoxy coumarin), on the lifespan and longevity of Drosophila melanogaster (both sexes), introducing the treatment at different ages and comparing the differences in a situation of stress or not. Different groups were established to determine the maximum longevity (the maximum amount of time that an individual can survive) and the time of life was measured of an homogeneous population until the death of the last individual. This parameter is genetically determined; and is related to the metabolic rate and it appears unchangeable by most environmental factors. From this parameter, the average longevity was determined, establishing an average maximum age between the different subgroups for the same group of treatment, considering the maximum life reached in every subgroup. The third parameter studied is the lifespan (time that 50% of individuals survive), it is affected by both genetic and environmental factors. The object of this investigation was to establish the influence of stress (provoked by an assay of flying­capacity) in the lifespan of the flies, and to study how treatment can protect individuals against induced stress. The survival values of the individuals submitted to an assay of flying capacity, during its development until the death of the last individual was evaluated. The three parameters for these individuals were established. Fraxetin administration did not reduce the lifespan in male Drosophila, but prolonged the lifespan and longevity in female flies, especially with a 2-week treatment, both in normal conditions and in a stress situation (the assay of flying capacity was considered as the response to a stress situation). Male Drosophila in a stress situation presented with a reduction of flying capacity, related to age, and also of the maximum life. Whereas, females only presented changes in the flying parameter, without modifications in the lifespan. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of acute adverse events and long-term outcome of two different surfactant dosing procedures in respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). The effects of two surfactant dosing procedures on the incidence of transient hypoxia and bradycardia, gas exchange, ventilatory requirements and 28 d outcome were compared. The patients, comprising 102 infants (birthweight 600-2000 g) with RDS on mechanical ventilation with FiO2 > or = 0.4, were randomized at 2-24 h to receive 200 mg kg(-1) of Curosurf; in 56 it was given by bolus delivery, and in 55 by a simplified technique (dose given in 1 min via a catheter introduced through a side-hole in the tracheal tube adaptor. The baby's position was not changed and ventilation was not interrupted). Two additional surfactant doses (100 mg kg(-1)) were also given, by the same method, if ventilation with FiO2 > or = 0.3 was needed 12 and 24 h after the initial dose. The number of episodes of hypoxia and/or bradycardia was similar in both groups. A slight and transient increase in PaCO2 was observed in the side-hole group. The efficacy of the surfactant, based on oxygenation improvement, ventilator requirements, number of doses required and incidence of air leaks, was similar. No differences were observed in the incidence of intraventricular haemorrhage, patent ductus arteriosus, bronchopulmonary dysplasia or survival. In conclusion, a simplified surfactant dosing procedure not requiring fractional doses, ventilator disconnection, changes in the baby's position or manual bagging was found to be as effective as bolus delivery. The number of dosing-related transient episodes of hypoxia and bradycardia was not decreased by the slow, 1 min, side-hole instillation procedure.

Polyphenols of adult leaves from Eucalyptus globulus, E. camaldulensis and E. rudis grown in Spain, in two areas with different edaphoclimatical characteristics, were estimated by chemical methods and by high pressure liquid chromatography. Leaf extracts consisted mainly of proanthocyanidins, ellagitannins and flavonol glycosides. Knowledge of the ellagitannins allows the discrimination of the three species, with E. globulus being well differentiated from the other two. However, the pattern of flavonol glycosides only permitted the discrimination of E. rudis with respect to E. camaldulensis and E. globulus. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Summary Background The role of Pyroglyphid mites in IgE-mediated serisitizalion has been well eslahlished. Although mites belonging to the genus Dermatophagoidess dominate in the acarofauna of domestic dust. non-pyroglyphid mites might also be of clinical importance. In Cuba, Dermatophagoides siboney is found in dust coexisting with D. pteronyssiuus and Blomia tropicalis. Dermatophagoides forinae is not found. Storage mites, such as Acorus siro, Lepidoglyphus destructor and Tyrophagus putrescentiae might also be present. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the allergenic relationships among the mites present in the environment of allergic patients in Cuba. Methods The crossreactivialty between an extract of D. siboney and the above mentioned six mites was studied by specific IgE inhibition, using sera of mite-sensitive patients after incubation with serial dilutions of D. sibaney. Results The inhibitory effect of D. sidiney extract was more pronounced against D. farinae. 91%, than against D. pyteronyssinus, 62%. Specific IgE to B. tropicali, A. siro, L. destructor and T. putrescentiae were inhibited to a much lesser extent, i.e. between 47 and 58%. The correlation between IgE to D. siboney and IgE to D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae was of 0.92 and 0.90. respectively. A weaker correlation was found between D. siboney and L. destructor (0.7), A. siro (0.67), B. tropicalis (0.54) and T. putrescentiae (0.51). Conclusion Thus. D. siboney seems to be most closely related to D. farinae.

A method has been developed for the rapid and simultaneous extraction and analysis from plant material of 3-indolylacetic acid (IAA), naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), abscisic acid (ABA) and the cytokinins benzyladenine (BA), zeatin, zeatin riboside, dihydrozeatin, dihydrozeatin riboside, isopentenyl adenine and isopentenyl adenosine. The method involves extraction with 80% (v/v) methanol, pre-purification of the extracts through reversed phase C18 Sep-Pak cartridges and immunopurification. The separation of the different compounds was accomplished by reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography for cytokinins, and by partition with diethyl ether for IAA, NAA and ABA. After methylation of the IAA fraction with diazomethane, quantification of all plant growth regulators (PGRs) was made by immunoassay. The percentage recovery at each step was monitored following the addition of radioactive compounds at the beginning of the process. The final recovery was 68% for IAA, 92% for NAA, 76% for ABA and 75% for BA. The method was applied to the analysis of PGRs in tissues and callus of kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa Liang and Ferguson).

This paper presents the results obtained in a study of the galvanic protection of steel provided by 55% Al-Zn coatings relative to zinc coatings (Sendzimir) in the atmosphere. While 55% Al-Zn coatings exhibit a passive behaviour under low aggressive atmospheres (e.g. in rural and urban areas), they provide good anodic performance (comparable to that of zinc coatings) under marine atmospheres.

Deformation potentials of valence and conduction bands in A II B IV C 2 V chalcopyrite semiconductors are calculated from the variation of the energy gap with temperature and pressure. From a comparison with their binary analogues A III B V it is found that values of deformation potentials in these compounds are considerably higher than in the binaries which could explain their lower carrier mobility

From the analysis of the variation of the energy gap with temperature and pressure in the chalcopyrite semiconducting compounds CuInSe2 and CuInTe2, the valence and conduction band acoustic deformation potentials are calculated as a function of temperature between 50 and 300 K. It is found that these parameters increase with temperature for both compounds. The results indicate, specially for CuInTe2, that the variation is important enough to be taken into account in the fit to the mobility data. Aus der Abhangigkeit der Energielucke von Temperatur und Druck werden fur die halbleitenden Verbindungen CuInSe2 und CuInTe2 die akustischen Deformationspotentiale fur Valenz- und Leitungs-band im Temperaturbereich zwischen 50 und 300 K berechnet. Fur beide Verbindungen nehmen diese Parameter mit der Temperatur zu. Insbesondere fur CuInTe2 ist diese Variation so stark, das sie bei der Anpassung der Beweglichkeitsdaten berucksichtigt werden mus.

The present study was performed in order to follow the response of rat cerebellum astroglial cells (Bergmann glial cells and astrocytes) to long-term portacaval shunt (PCS), by means of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and vimentin immunoreactivities. Bergmann glia accumulated GFAP in response to PCS, whereas astrocytes decreased GFAP immunoreactivity when compared to control rats. The increase of GFAP occurs in cells located in the cerebellar layer where glutamate is mainly released. Since the vimentin content remained unaltered in response to PCS, when compared to control rats, it can be concluded that only the GFAP filaments are affected by PCS. Nevertheless, GFAP immunoreactivity presents regional differences in the cerebellar astroglial population, and the factors responsible for these variations are still unknown. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Background: Few cases of allergy to pine nuts have been described. We report a case of anaphylactic reaction to pine nuts. The patient needed to be treated in the emergency room due to a systemic reaction immediately after eating pine nuts. Methods: The patient was studied by prick tests and prick by prick tests. Specific IgE was measured by CAP and by SDS–PAGE/immunoblotting by a diffusion method. Results: The patient showed positive prick by prick tests to pine nuts (12 mm of maximum wheal diameter). Specific IgE was positive (0.79 kU/l). The patient's serum recognized several proteins by immunoblot. However, a 17-kDa allergen band was detected with high intensity. This protein was found to be sensitive to reducing agents, losing its IgE-binding properties after reduction. Conclusions: The patient presented an IgE-mediated reaction and detected a 17-kDa protein from pine nuts not previously described.

Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunoreactivity has been used to study the astroglial response in the rat spinal cord to long-term portacaval shunt (PCS). The astroglial response in PCS rats is heterogeneous. In general, astrocytes show a loss of GFAP immunoreactivity, as well as shrinking and pyknosis in their nuclei; however, while GFAP reactivity was unchanged in the periependymal region, it was strongly increased in the dorsolateral region of the spinal cord (lateral spinal nucleus, dorsal root entry zone, and the most dorsal region of the dorsal horn). Three possibilities are postulated to explain how astrocytes, in the periependymal and dorsolateral regions, can support the effects of PCS: (a) astrocytes related to glutamatergic pathways ought to possess a more efficient ammonia uptake and detoxification system, (b) long-term PCS can activate nociceptive pathways (substancePergic fibers), and (c) astrocytes located in periependymal and dorsolateral regions can be exposed to lower concentrations of ammonia because of its diffusion into the cerebro-spinal fluid close to these regions.

A dynamic pulse-echo overlap method is used to measure the longitudinal and transverse sound velocities of polycrystalline samples of CuInTe2 and CuInSe2 between 4.2 and 300 K. From these measurements the temperature dependence of the elastic moduli is obtained. From the low temperature value of the average sound velocity, the Debye temperature is calculated to be 197.5 and 243.7 K for CuInTe2 and CuInSe2, respectively. Using the Szigeti relationships the ionicities are estimated to be 0.39 and 0.34 for CuInSe2 and CuInTe2, respectively. Une methode dynamique de recouvrement de poulsation-echo a ete utilisee pour mesurer la vitesse du son longitudinale et transverse dans des echantillons polycristallins de CuInTe2 et CuInSe2 entre 4,2 et 300 K. Nous avons obtenu la dependence vis a vis de la temperature des modules elastiques. D'autre part a partir des valeurs moyennes de la vitesse du son a basses temperatures nous avons calcule la temperature de Debye et on a trouve 197,5 et 243,7 K pour le CuInTe2 et CuInSe2 respectivement. Au moyen des relations de Szigeti les ionicites ont ete estimees en 0,39 et 0,34 pour le CuInTe2 et CuInSe2, respectivement.

Introduction: Cutaneous adverse reactions from topical or systemic administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are frequently described. New cases of adverse reactions from NSAIDs are reported, but the most frequently involved are drugs as ketoprofen or piroxicam. We report a case of photoallergical contact dermatitis from diclophenac with possible cross reaction to aceclophenac. Material and methods: A 63-year-old-man, allergic to penicillin, developed eczematous lesions on hands and face, after applying a medicament containing diclophenac. Patch test and photopatch test (5 J/cm2) were performed with a photoallergen battery (Chemotechnique diagnosticsO), a NSAIDs battery (Aristegui lab.O) and aceclophenac 1%, 5% and 10% in pet. Readings were done at 48 and 96 hours in epicutaneous test and at 24 and 72 hours in photoallergic study, following the ICDRG criteria. Results: The results of photoallergic study were as follows: diclophenac 1%, 5% and 10% in pet. and aceclophenac 10% in pet. positive at 24 and 72 hours. The remaining compounds of the NSAIDs battery were negative. Conclusions: Diclophenac is a NAIDs derived from aryl alcanoic acid group used both topically and systemically in Spain. Some adverse reactions have been reported as exanthema, urticaria, eczema or Steven-Johnson’s syndrome. We have found only two cases reported as photosensitization from diclophenac. In one of them, the clinical lesion was described as a granuloma annular-like and photoallergic study was negative. We report a photocontact dermatitis from diclophenac with positive photopatch test. Photopatch test positive to aceclophenac may be explained as a cross reaction among group.

Introduction: Cutaneous reactions due to use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are frequently described. In the Contact Unit from the Department of Dermatology of Juan Canalejo Hospital, we compiled all cases studied during 4 years (from 2000 to 2003) to analyze the incidence, frequency and type of reactions derived from NSAIDs use. Material and methods: We used a NAIDs battery (Aristegui lab.O) on 55 patients with clinical suspicion of adverse reaction from NSAIDs. We performed epicutaneous study on 17 and additional photoallergic study, after UVA irradiation (from 5 to 7,5 J/cm2), on 38 cases. In some cases we patched the drug used by patient as is and/or the active substance provided by the laboratory if it was not included on NSAIDs battery. Readings were done following ICDRG criteria at 48 and 96 hours on patch tests and 24 and 72 hours on photopatch tests. Healthy controls were patched. Results: 22 patients showed positive test: 15 cases were diagnosed as photoallergic dermatitis (etofenamate 5; dexketoprofen 4; ketoprofen 3; piroxicam 2; diclophenac 2 and aceclophenac 1). Five cases were explained as allergic contact dermatitis (etofenamate 2; fepradinol 2 and phenylbutazone 1) and two cases of fixed drug eruption from piroxicam were found. Conclusion: In this study we observed that cutaneous reactions due to ketoprofen and piroxicam are still high. It is important to note the high incidence of allergic and photoallergic reactions from dexketoprofen, a recently introduced NSAID, reporting always a cross reaction between ketoprofen and dexketoprofen.

The thermal conductivity of HgSe is measured at low temperatures. The pronounced depression in the magnitude of the thermal conductivity above 4 K and other anomalous behaviour observed by other workers at higher temperatures are explained by taking into account the additional scattering of phonons by extended defects or clusters in Callaway's formalism. La conductivite thermique du HgSe a ete mesuree a basses temeratures. La forte depression observee dans la valeur de la conductivite thermique au dessus de 4 K et un comportement anormal constate par d'auters chercheurs a des temperatures plus elevees a ete explique en tenant compte de la dispersion additionelle des phonons par les defauts etendus et par les groupements dans le formalisme de Callaway.