Characterization of auxin-induced ARRO-1 expression in the primary root of Malus domestica.

ARRO-1, a novel 2-oxoacid-dependent dioxygenase (2-ODD) is up-regulated during IBA-induced adventitious root formation in stem discs of Malus domestica. Analysis of ARRO-1's expression profile in the primary root of apple seedlings indicates that it is also highly up-regulated in the root in response to both IAA and IBA, but not 2, 4-D. Auxin-derived evolution of ethylene can be discounted as the source of ARRO-1 induction as ARRO-1 is not induced in the root following treatment with the ethylene precursor ACC. Constitutive expression in the primary root further suggests that ARRO-1's role may be linked to the regulation of natural auxin levels within plant tissues. Significantly, orthologues of ARRO-1 have been identified in Arabidopsis thaliana by means of DNA database analysis which will enable the further molecular characterization of this class of 2-ODD.

Costs of minimally invasive laser surgery compared with transurethral electrocautery resection of the prostate.

We reviewed hospital charges for patients undergoing uncomplicated endoscopic surgical resection for symptomatic bladder outlet obstruction due to benign prostatic hyperplasia over a 1-year period at a single institution. Of 115 patients, 67 underwent transurethral electrocautery resection of the prostate, and 48 underwent endoscopic neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser ablation of the prostate under direct vision. Analysis showed a cost differential between these 2 surgical treatments in excess of $2,000, favoring laser prostatectomy (P < .0001) over transurethral electrocautery resection. The single greatest difference between the treatments was the ability to manage all patients receiving laser treatment as outpatients, whereas the mean and median hospital stay after transurethral electrocautery resection was 3.0 days. Taking additional cost variables into account and decreasing the cost of laser delivery systems would further increase this cost differential in favor of laser therapy. The diminished postoperative morbidity associated with laser treatment also promises lower total costs over the long term.

Electrical injuries, with special reference to the upper extremities. A review of 182 cases.

A twenty year experience in the management of 182 patients with electrical injuries has been reviewed. Males predominate. The average age is thirty-six years. Bodily contact with high tension wires by linemen constituted the most common accidents. High voltage injuries were sustained by 67% of patients. Burns were sustained by 74% of our cases and of these, 71% involved the upper extremities. Complications developed in three fourths of patients, and one third of patients suffered some degree of permanent disability. Mortality (2.1%) was largely due to septicemia, pneumonia, and renal failure. The wide variety of injuries necessitates individualization in treatment. Prevention offers greatest hope in management.