bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Oxidants and Antioxidants in Otitis Media with Effusion in Children
Authors: Yilmaz Taner , Koçcan Elif Gülin , Besler H. Tanju , Yilmaz Gonca , Gürsel Bülent
Published: December 2004

OBJECTIVE

Determine the possible role of oxidants and antioxidants in the pathogenesis of otitis media with effusion in children.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

Randomized controlled trial, tertiary referral center. The study group was made up of children with otitis media with effusion who were to undergo bilateral ventilation tube insertion and adenoidectomy. The control group was comprised of otherwise healthy children. The blood levels of antioxidants (retinol, β‐carotene, (α‐tocopherol, laycopene, ascorbic acid, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, GSH) and oxidation products (malondialdehyde) were determined before and 1 month after the operation in the study group and once only in the control group. These substances were also measured in the adenoid tissue and middle ear fluids.

RESULTS

In the study group, the blood levels of antioxidants and oxidants before and after the operation were significantly different when compared with the control group (P < 0.05). In the study group, the blood antioxidant levels increased and oxidant levels decreased significantly after the operation (P < 0.05). The levels after the operation never reached those of the control group.

CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE

Oxidants and antioxidants played a significant role in the pathogenesis of otitis media with effusion in children. These children are under significant oxidative stress. Insertion of a ventilation tube and adenoidectomy significantly decreased the oxidative stress in these patients, but could not normalize it completely. Additional studies are necessary in the clinical use of antioxidants in otitis media with effusion.
A Comparison of the Results of Monolayer versus Smear Cytopreparatory Techniques for Fine‐Needle Aspiration in 100 Consecutive Patients Undergoing Thyroidectomy: A Surgeon's Perspective
Authors: Witt Robert L.
Published: December 2004

OBJECTIVE

To compare thyroid fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) using monolayer (MT) versus conventional smear (CS) cytopreparatory techniques with final histology.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of 100 consecutive thyroidectomies.

SETTING

Tertiary care university affiliated medical center.

RESULTS

26% of MT aspirates were inadequate compared with 3% of CS aspirates (P < 0.05). The negative predictive values for MT and CS were 86% and 100%, respectively. The positive predictive values for MT and CS were 69% and 90%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Fewer inadequate specimens will be obtained with CS than with MT. A clinician performing FNA can obtain adequate specimens at a rate comparable to that of a hospital‐based cytopathologist.

SIGNIFICANCE

CS provides greater assurance to the patient and the surgeon that a thyroid nodule with a FNA interpreted as benign can be observed. A higher percentage of patients with malignant tumor will receive thyroidectomy with the use of CS technique for FNA. EBM rating: B‐3. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2004;131:964–7.)
Nightly Variability of Sleep‐Disordered Breathing Measured over 3 Nights
Authors: Stepnowsky Carl J. , Orr William C. , Davidson Terence M.
Published: December 2004

OBJECTIVE

To examine the nightly variability of sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) as measured by the apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI).

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

Retrospective comparison of 3 sequential nights of testing performed in the home in 1091 patients who were referred for diagnostic testing of SDB.

RESULTS

The Pearson and Intraclass correlation coefficients ranged between 0.88 and 0.90 for each pair of nights. Based on night 1, approximately 90% of patients were classified consistently with “AHI‐high” (the highest AHI measured across the 3 nights) using an AHI threshold of 5. However, 10% were misclassified on night 1 relative to the highest AHI level.

CONCLUSION AND SIGNIFICANCE

These findings suggest that (1) 1 night of diagnostic testing for SDB is not sufficient to diagnosis SDB in approximately 1 of every 10 cases, and (2) there is little, if any, significant nightly change in SDB in the home environment. EBM rating: D. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2004;131:837–43.)
The Impact of Sleep‐Disordered Breathing on Cognition and Behavior in Children: A Review and Meta‐Synthesis of the Literature
Authors: Ebert Charles S. , Drake Amelia F.
Published: December 2004

OBJECTIVES

The goal of this review is to provide a synthesis of the current literature addressing the effects of sleep‐disordered breathing on cognition and behavior in children aged 2–18.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

A computerized search was performed to include studies between 1966 and 2001. Studies were assessed based on research question, sampling, intervention, outcomes, confounding, and statistical methods. Sensitivity analyses were performed for quantitative assessments of selection bias, misclassification, and confounding.

RESULTS

Seventeen reports with 5312 patients were reviewed. The majority of these studies demonstrated poor sampling, insufficient consideration of confounders, and imprecise use of statistical tools. However, there was little evidence of bias in two studies when scrutinized using a sensitivity analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite suggested links between daytime behavior problems and neurocognitive deficits, there is little certainty for causality based on the quality of the evidence.

SIGNIFICANCE

By discussing the quality of the current evidence, we hope to improve study design and contribute to the development of an understanding of this complex topic.
THE 1890S KOREAN REFORMERS' VIEW OF JAPAN – A MENACING MODEL?
Authors: Tikhonov Vladimir
Published: December 2004

This paper explores the nuances of the perceptions of Japan by Korea's reformist press of the late 1890s, chiefly by Tongnip sinmun (1896–1899, edited by So Chaep'il and Yun Ch'iho). The main finding of the paper is that, despite the Christian reformists' avowed allegiance to the USA as their ideal model of “civilization”, Japan was taken as a practical model – an example of how a fellow East Asian country, which was supposedly “30 years ago even more backward than Korea”, could succeed in “civilizing” itself. At the same time, reformists' nationalist reaction against domineering “colonial” behavior of the Japanese inside Korea often took the form of an appeal to “international” – read “American”/“European” – “standards of civilization”. The conclusion the study of some of the earliest forms of Korea's Westernizing nationalism leads us to is that the “Occidentalist” worldview of the early Christian nationalist reformers was a complex, multi-layered and often self-contradictory phenomenon, in which “oppressive” features are not easily distinguishable from “liberational” ones. Its key treatment – the prettified, essentialized picture of the “Occident”, believed to be the only “true”, “ideal” civilization – could work “oppressively” as it put Korea's traditional culture in the position of “barbarism” to be exorcized, while looking “emancipatory” when used as the yardstick for criticism of Japanese encroachment.
Regularized estimation of vertical total electron content from GPS data for a desired time period
Authors: Arikan F. , Erol C. B. , Arikan O.
Published: December 2004

In this paper a new algorithm for short‐term regularized estimation of vertical total electron content (VTEC) from Global Positioning System (GPS) data is developed. The regularization technique can combine signals, from all GPS satellites for a given instant and a given receiver, for a desired time duration within the 24 hour period without missing any important features in the temporal domain. The algorithm is based on the minimization of a cost function which includes a high pass penalty filter and detrend processing. With an optional weighting function the multipath effects are reduced. A final sliding window median filter is added to enrich the processing and smoothing of the data. The developed regularized estimation algorithm is applied to GPS data for various locations for the solar maximum week of 23–28 April 2001. The parameter set that is required by the estimation algorithm is chosen optimally using appropriate error functions. For this data set the chosen robust and optimum parameters can be used for all latitudes and for both quiet and disturbed days for a minimum of one hour time period. It is observed that the estimated TEC values are in very accordance with the TEC estimates for the 24 hour period. Owing to its 30 s time resolution, the regularized VTEC estimates from the developed algorithm are very successful in representation and tracking of sudden temporal variations of the ionosphere, especially for high latitudes and during ionospheric disturbances.
Inhibitory effect of BIBN4096BS on cephalic vasodilatation induced by CGRP or transcranial electrical stimulation in the rat
Authors: Petersen Kenneth A , Birk Steffen , Doods Henri , Edvinsson Lars , Olesen Jes
Published: December 2004

British Journal of Pharmacology (2004) 143, 1074–1075. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706080
Transcription regulation by the adaptor protein Fe65 and the nucleosome assembly factor SET
Authors: Telese Francesca , Bruni Paola , Donizetti Aldo , Gianni Davide , D'Ambrosio Chiara , Scaloni Andrea , Zambrano Nicola , Rosenfeld Michael G , Russo Tommaso
Published: December 2004

Fe65 protein interacts with the cytosolic domain of the amyloid precursor APP. Its possible involvement in gene regulation is suggested by numerous observations, including those demonstrating that it activates transcription. Here, we show that the Fe65 transcription activation domain overlaps with the WW domain of Fe65 and binds to the nucleosome assembly factor SET. This protein is required for the Fe65‐mediated transactivation of a reporter gene. Two‐step chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrate that a complex including Fe65/AICD/Tip60 and SET is associated with the KAI1 gene promoter. Suppression of SET levels by RNA interference shows that this protein is required for full levels of basal transcription of the KAI1 gene. These results further support the function of Fe65 and APP in gene regulation and show a new role for the SET factor.
Linking economic activities to the distribution of exotic plants
Authors: Taylor Brad W. , Irwin Rebecca E.
Published: December 2004

The human enterprise is flooding Earth's ecosystems with exotic species. Human population size is often correlated with species introductions, whereas more proximate mechanisms, such as economic activities, are frequently overlooked. Here we present a hypothesis that links ecology and economics to provide a causal framework for the distribution of exotic plants in the United States. We test two competing hypotheses (the population-only and population-economic models) using a national data set of exotic plants, employing a statistical framework to simultaneously model direct and indirect effects of human population and ecological and economic variables. The population-only model included direct effects of human population and ecological factors as predictors of exotics. In contrast, the population-economic model included the direct effects of economic and ecological factors and the indirect effects of human population as predictors of exotics. The explicit addition of economic activity in the population-economic model provided a better explanation for the distribution of exotics than did the population-only model. The population-economic model explained 75% of the variation in the number of exotic plants in the 50 states and provided a good description of the observed number of exotic plants in the Canadian provinces and in other nations in 85% of the cases. A specific economic activity, real estate gross state product, had the strongest positive effect on the number of exotics. The strong influence of economics on exotics demonstrates that economics matter for resolving the exotic-species problem because the underlying causes, and some of the solutions, may lie in human-economic behaviors.
Viral DNA synthesis-dependent titration of a cellular repressor activates transcription of the human adenovirus type 2 IVa
2
gene
Authors: Iftode C. , Flint S. J.
Published: December 2004

Synthesis of progeny DNA genomes in cells infected by human subgroup C adenoviruses leads to several changes in viral gene expression. These changes include transcription from previously silent, late promoters, such as the IV
a2
promoter, and a large increase in the efficiency of major-late (ML) transcription. Some of these changes appear to take place sequentially, because the product of the IV
a2
gene has been implicated in stimulation of ML transcription. Our previous biochemical studies suggested that IV
a2
transcription is regulated by viral DNA synthesis-dependent relief of transcriptional repression by a cellular protein that we termed IV
a2
-RF. To test the relevance of such a repressor-titration mechanism during the viral infectious cycle, we introduced into the endogenous IV
a2
promoter two mutations that impair
in vitro
-binding of IV
a2
-RF, but introduce no change (Rep7) or one conservative amino acid substitution (Rep6) into the overlapping coding sequence for the viral DNA polymerase. The results of run-on transcription assays indicated that both mutations induced earlier-than-normal and more efficient IV
a2
transcription. Both mutations were also observed to result in modest increases in the efficiency of viral DNA synthesis. However, measurement of the concentration of IV
a2
transcripts as a function of IV
a2
template concentration demonstrated that the Rep mutations increased by up to 60-fold the efficiency with which IV
a2
templates were used during the initial period of the late phase of infection, as predicted by the repressor titration hypothesis. These mutations also increased the efficiency of ML transcription in infected cells.
Compactness and global estimates for the geometric Paneitz equation in high dimensions
Authors: Hebey Emmanuel , Robert Frédéric
Published: December 2004

Given

(
M
,
g
)

(M,g)

, a smooth compact Riemannian manifold of dimension

n
≥
5

n \ge 5

, we investigate compactness for the fourth order geometric equation

P
g

u
=

u

2
♯

−
1

P_gu = u^{2^\sharp -1}

, where

P
g

P_g

is the Paneitz operator, and

2
♯

=
2
n

/

(
n
−
4
)

2^\sharp = 2n/(n-4)

is critical from the Sobolev viewpoint. We prove that the equation is compact when the Paneitz operator is of strong positive type.
The Tricornered Ser/Thr Protein Kinase Is Regulated by Phosphorylation and Interacts with Furry duringDrosophilaWing Hair Development
Authors: He Ying , Fang Xiaolan , Emoto Kazuo , Jan Yuh-Nung , Adler Paul N.
Published: December 2004

The Trc/Ndr/Sax1/Cbk1 family of ser/thr kinases plays a key role in the morphogenesis of polarized cell structures in flies, worms, and yeast. Tricornered (Trc), the Drosophila nuclear Dbf2-related (Ndr) serine/threonine protein kinase, is required for the normal morphogenesis of epidermal hairs, bristles, laterals, and dendrites. We obtained in vivo evidence that Trc function was regulated by phosphorylation and that mutations in key regulatory sites resulted in dominant negative alleles. We found that wild-type, but not mutant Trc, is found in growing hairs, and we failed to detect Trc in pupal wing nuclei, implying that in this developmental context Trc functions in the cytoplasm. The furry gene and its homologues in yeast and Caenorhabditis elegans have previously been implicated as being essential for the function of the Ndr kinase family. We found that Drosophila furry (Fry) also is found in growing hairs, that its subcellular localization is dependent on Trc function, and that it can be coimmunoprecipitated with Trc. Our data suggest a feedback mechanism involving Trc activity regulates the accumulation of Fry in developing hairs.
Phosphorylated BRCA1 Is Predominantly Located in the Nucleus and Mitochondria
Authors: Coene Elisabeth D. , Hollinshead Michael S. , Waeytens Anouk A.T. , Schelfhout Vera R.J. , Eechaute Willy P. , Shaw Michael K. , Van Oostveldt Patrick M.V. , Vaux David J.
Published: December 2004

Multiple copies of the mitochondrial genome in eukaryotic cells are organized into protein–DNA complexes called nucleoids. Mitochondrial genome repair mechanisms have been reported, but they are less well characterized than their nuclear counterparts. To expand our knowledge of mitochondrial genome maintenance, we have studied the localization of the BRCA1 protein, known to be involved in nuclear repair pathways. Our confocal and immunoelectron microscopy results show that BRCA1 is present in mitochondria of several human cancer cell lines and in primary breast and nasal epithelial cells. BRCA1 localization in mitochondria frequently overlapped that of nucleoids. Small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of BRCA1 in human cancer cells (confirmed by Western blot) results in decreased nuclear, cytoplasmic, and mitochondrial staining after immunofluorescence microscopy, establishing the specificity of the BRCA1 immunolabeling. Furthermore, using cell fractionation, dephosphorylation, and enzyme protection experiments, we show that a 220-kDa phosphorylated isoform of BRCA1 is enriched in mitochondrial and nuclear fractions but reduced in cytoplasmic subcellular fractions. Submitochondrial fractionation confirmed the presence of BRCA1 protein in isolated mitoplasts. Because phosphorylation of BRCA1 and subsequent changes in subcellular localization are known to follow DNA damage, our data support a universal role for BRCA1 in the maintenance of genome integrity in both mitochondria and nucleus.
Insemination potential of male Trichogramma evanescens
Authors: Jacob Sébastien , Boivin Guy
Published: December 2004

Reproduction strategies of male parasitoids have received less attention than those of the females. In hymenopteran parasitoids that reproduce by arrhenotokous parthenogenesis, virgin females are able to reproduce, but they are constrained to produce only males. In such species, the number of sperm transferred to females is of prime importance for female reproductive success. In this study, we measured the insemination potential of male Trichogramma evanescens Westwood (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae). Independent of their age and their sperm‐depletion status, males continued to mate with females until the end of their life. They quickly depleted their sperm supply by fertilizing 18 females during their lifetime, among which 80% were inseminated during the first 24 h. They fathered around 400 daughters over their lifetime. Our results suggest an absence of imaginal spermatogenesis in T. evanescens males that can be designated as prospermatogenic. Sperm is thus a limited resource in this species and females might encounter males with varying amounts of sperm.
Intoxicants and suicidal behaviour among adolescents: changes in levels and associations from 1992 to 2002
Authors: Rossow Ingeborg , Grøholt Berit , Wichstrøm Lars
Published: December 2004

Aims To assess whether a substantial increase in substance use over a 10‐year period has had an impact on the level of, or associations with, non‐fatal suicidal behaviour among Norwegian teenagers.

Design, setting and participants Two cross‐sectional school surveys applying identical procedures and measures in 1992 and 2002, using national samples comprising 11 000 and 12 000 13–19‐year‐old students.

Findings A significant proportion of the increase in the prevalence of attempted suicide among girls could be attributed to the increase in substance use, taking into account other risk and protective factors. Among boys no net increase in the prevalence of attempted suicide was observed, and the impact of substance use on suicidal behaviour was lower in 2002 than in 1992. Yet, it also appeared that unobserved protective factors may have countered the impact of increased substance use among boys. For both genders a larger fraction of attempted suicides was attributable to alcohol intoxication than to use of any other substance.

Conclusions A significant increase in use of alcohol and drugs may not necessarily be reflected in changes in the level of suicidal behaviour. Further studies applying other data sources and designs are warranted to supplement and validate the present findings.
A comparison of the autonomic arousal of frequent, infrequent and non‐gamblers while playing fruit machines
Authors: Moodie Crawford , Finnigan Frances
Published: December 2004

Aims  The purpose of the present study was to examine differences between frequent, infrequent and non‐gamblers in autonomic arousal, as indexed by heart rate, while playing a fruit machine and controlling for the confounding effect of movement.

Design  The experiment employed a between‐subjects design, with a total of three groups being investigated—two experimental groups (frequent and infrequent gamblers) and a control group (non‐gamblers).

Setting  To enhance ecological validity the study took place within an actual gambling setting, in Glasgow city centre.

Participants  A total of 63 participants, 21 for each of the three groups, who were matched for age and gender, took part in the study.

Measurements  In terms of autonomic arousal, measurements were taken using a Pulse Oximeter (Pulsox‐3I‐Minolta Company Limited Milton Keynes, UK). In addition, a questionnaire was employed to measure levels of gambling severity (SOGS).

Findings  Frequent gamblers were found to have significantly higher levels of autonomic arousal than infrequent and non‐gamblers, with the frequent gamblers arousal levels continuing to rise after play, unlike the other two groups. Interestingly, novel findings to arise from this research involved the fact that the specialist play characteristics of the fruit machine, such as bonuses, nudges and features, were found to be as arousing as wins.

Conclusions  The main hypothesis was supported, suggesting that arousal is indeed a key factor in fruit machine gambling. The research has value, as few studies have examined specifically the differences between frequent, infrequent and non‐gamblers, and no studies have investigated the arousal associated with the actual dynamics of fruit machine play (i.e. bonuses, nudges, features, wins). The arousal associated with modern British fruit machines suggests a high potential for addiction.
Irritable bowel, smoking and oesophageal acid exposure: an insight into the nature of symptoms of gastro‐oesophageal reflux
Authors: Zimmerman J.
Published: December 2004

Background : In gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease, oesophageal acid exposure correlates with symptoms but explains only a small fraction of their variance.

Aims : To elucidate the effects of irritable bowel syndrome and smoking on gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease symptoms and to clarify whether they modulate the relationship between oesophageal acid exposure and symptoms.

Methods : The relationship between oesophageal acid exposure, irritable bowel syndrome (Rome I criteria), smoking status and symptoms was investigated in patients with a normal gastroscopy who underwent a 24‐h oesophageal pH monitoring.

Results : Of 256 patients with gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease, 16% were smokers and 50% met the criteria for irritable bowel syndrome (irritable bowel syndrome+). The extent of oesophageal acid exposure was unrelated to smoking or irritable bowel syndrome status. Oesophageal acid exposure, irritable bowel syndrome status and current smoking independently predicted symptoms. Irritable bowel syndrome and smoking modulated the effect of oesophageal acid exposure on symptoms: oesophageal acid exposure was predictive of symptoms only in non‐smokers. However, irritable bowel syndrome was a significant predictor of symptoms both in smokers and in non‐smokers. Smoking was associated with symptoms only in irritable bowel syndrome+, while oesophageal acid exposure was associated with symptoms irrespective of irritable bowel syndrome status.

Conclusions : In patients with non‐erosive gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease, smoking and irritable bowel syndrome independently predicted symptoms, without affecting the extent of oesophageal acid exposure. The relationship between oesophageal acid exposure and symptoms was affected significantly, and in opposite directions, by smoking and irritable bowel syndrome.
Mesalazine (5‐aminosalicylic acid) micropellets show similar efficacy and tolerability to mesalazine tablets in patients with ulcerative colitis – results from a randomized‐controlled trial
Authors: Raedler A. , Behrens C. , Bias P.
Published: December 2004

Background : Formulations containing 5‐aminosalicylic acid, such as mesalazine, are the gold standard of treatment for mild‐to‐moderate ulcerative colitis. Current oral regimens require the use of large tablets and frequent dosing to reach the recommended treatment dose. Mesalazine micropellets were designed to allow less frequent dosing in an easier to swallow formulation.

Aim : To compare the efficacy of mesalazine micropellets with the tablet formulation in patients with mild‐to‐moderate ulcerative colitis.

Methods : This phase 2, double‐blind, active‐controlled, parallel‐group, multiple dose clinical trial randomized 362 patients to either mesalazine micropellets or tablets, at a dosage of 3 g/day. The primary efficacy end‐point was the incidence of clinical remission within 8 weeks, defined as the sum of clinical activity index components 1–4 (CAIC1−4) ≤ 2.

Results : CAIC1−4 decreased significantly in both treatment groups within 8 weeks. The micropellet formulation showed confirmatory non‐inferiority with statistical significance compared with the tablet formulation, with regard to the incidence of clinical remission (odds ratio in according‐to‐protocol population 1.008; 95% CI: 0.623–1.632). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events.

Conclusions : The mesalazine micropellet formulation is as effective as tablets in patients with mild‐to‐moderate ulcerative colitis, enabling a larger dose to be taken comfortably and conveniently, thereby potentially improving patient compliance, treatment response and quality of life.
Systematic review: is there excessive use of proton pump inhibitors in gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease?
Authors: Lee T. J. , Fennerty M. B. , Howden C. W.
Published: December 2004

Background : Proton‐pump inhibitors are often recommended for continuous use in gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease, but this may not be necessary in all patients.

Aim : To ascertain the level of evidence for alternative strategies for proton‐pump inhibitor treatment in gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease.

Methods : We searched for observational or interventional studies examining alternatives to continuous proton‐pump inhibitor treatment in gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease.

Results : Non‐randomized studies suggest that some patients with gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease, including some with erosive oesophagitis, may be adequately maintained on proton‐pump inhibitor therapy given less frequently than once daily. However, the results may not be generalizable. Four high quality randomized‐controlled trials compared ‘on‐demand’ proton‐pump inhibitor and placebo treatment in endoscopy‐negative reflux disease; all found this effective for most patients. One high quality randomized‐controlled trial found intermittent courses of a proton‐pump inhibitor or H2‐receptor antagonist in erosive oesophagitis or endoscopy‐negative reflux disease adequate for almost half of the patients studied. Up to 80% of patients on continuous high‐dose proton‐pump inhibitor treatment for gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease can be ‘stepped down’ to less intensive therapy.

Conclusions : On‐demand proton‐pump inhibitor treatment may be appropriate in endoscopy‐negative reflux disease. In gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease, patients taking more than once daily or high‐dose proton‐pump inhibitor treatment, a step down to once daily or standard dose therapy should be attempted.
Antifungal potential of Spilanthes calva after inoculation of Piriformospora indica
Authors: Rai M. K. , Varma A. , Pandey A. K.
Published: December 2004

We investigated the influence of Piriformospora indica on the antifungal principle of Spilanthes calva, a plant of high commercial value. An antifungal efficacy was shown by aqueous and petroleum ether extracts of S. calva against Fusarium oxysporum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. The petroleum ether extract of S. calva was more effective than the aqueous extract in inoculated as well as uninoculated plants. The antifungal activity of the plant was enhanced due to the increase in spilanthol content after inoculation of P. indica.
Cutaneous zygomycosis due to Rhizopus oryzae in a patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Sundararajan T. , Kumar C. P. G. , Menon T. , Rekha K. , Venkatadesikalu M.
Published: December 2004

We report herein a case of primary cutaneous zygomycosis caused by Rhizopus oryzae in a 7‐year‐old girl with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) receiving intensive chemotherapy. The diagnosis was based on observation of hyphal elements in cutaneous biopsy and isolation of the fungus in culture. The patient responded to surgical intervention and treatment with amphotericin B.
The epidemiology of canine and feline dermatophytoses in southern Italy
Authors: Cafarchia C. , Romito D. , Sasanelli M. , Lia R. , Capelli G. , Otranto D.
Published: December 2004

A total of 424 animals (268 dogs and 156 cats) with skin lesions (alopecia and peripheral scaling) were examined from January 1999 to December 2002. Of the 424 samples examined, 99 (23.3%) yielded a positive culture and, in particular, 20.5% of the dog samples and 28.2% of the cat samples. Microsporum canis was the most common dermatophyte isolated from dogs and cats (77.7%), followed by geophilic dermatophyte species (M. gypseum, Trichophyton terrestre). Young dogs and cats, especially those younger than 1 year, showed a statistically significant higher prevalence of M. canis infection than older animals. No statistically significant association was found between infection and sex in cats, while male dogs were more affected by dermatophytes. Among breeds, Yorkshire terriers showed the highest positivity (50%) caused mainly by M. canis (46.6%), while no differences were noticed for cats. A significantly higher prevalence of positive samples was registered in summer and in autumn for cats. The presence of dermatophytes was not associated with itching. The diagnostic value of Wood's lamp fluorescence and microscopic examination proved to be scarce compared with fungal cultures as only 45.5% of the 77 samples that tested positive for M. canis at the cultural examination was positive under Wood's lamp florescence and 53.2% at microscopic examination.
Identification and characterization of Xenopus OMP25
Authors: Inui Masafumi , Asashima Makoto
Published: December 2004

This study describes the isolation of mitochondrial outer membrane protein 25 (OMP25) from Xenopus laevis and an analysis of its role in early development. X. laevis OMP25 (xOMP25) is a transmembrane protein of the mitochondrial outer membrane with a PDZ domain in the cytoplasmic tail, and an approximate molecular size of 25 kDa. We isolated xOMP25 from a cDNA library of X. laevis tailbud embryos. Amino acid sequence analysis of xOMP25 showed 57% identity to mouse OMP25, with 73% identity in the PDZ domains. XOMP25 mRNA is expressed maternally, and at a constant level throughout early development. The transcript is localized to eye, otic vesicle, branchial arch and neural tube. Mitochondrial targeting of an EGFP‐fusion protein of xOMP25 was visualized using a mitochondria‐specific fluorescent dye. Overexpression of xOMP25 in embryos caused curved axes, small eyes and disorganized head structures. Knockdown of xOMP25 protein using antisense morpholino oligonucleotides resulted in slightly shortened axes and decreased neural tissue. Although the mechanism remains unclear, our results implicate xOMP25 protein in the formation of the intact neural tube.
Phosphoinositide metabolism at fertilization of sea urchin eggs measured with a GFP‐probe
Authors: Thaler Catherine D. , Kuo Richard C. , Patton Chris , Preston Christina M. , Yagisawa Hitoshi , Epel David
Published: December 2004

Fertilization elicits a dramatic, transient rise in Ca2+ within the egg which is an essential component of egg activation and consequent initiation of development. In the sea urchin egg, three distinct Ca2+ stores have been identified which could, either individually or in combination, initiate Ca2+ release at fertilization. Inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate (IP3) production by phospholipase C (PLC) has been suggested as the singular signal in initiating the Ca2+ transient. Other studies indicate that Ca2+ stores gated by cyclic adenosine diphosphate ribose (cADPR) or nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) are also necessary. We have examined the temporal relationship between the Ca2+ rise and IP3 production at fertilization in vivo within individual eggs using a green fluorescent protein (GFP) coupled to a pleckstrin homology (PH) domain that can detect changes in IP3. Translocation of the probe occurred after the Ca2+ rise was initiated. Earlier, and possibly smaller, IP3 changes could not be excluded due to limitations in probe sensitivity. High IP3 levels are maintained during the decline in cytoplasmic Ca2+, suggesting that later IP3 metabolism might not be related to regulation of Ca2+, but may function to modulate other PIP2 regulated events such as actin polymerization or reflect other novel phosphoinositide signaling pathways.
Disruption of the NCS‐1/frequenin‐related ncsA gene in Dictyostelium discoideum accelerates development
Authors: Coukell Barrie , Cameron Anne , Perusini Stephen , Shim Katharine
Published: December 2004

To learn more about the function of intracellular Ca2+ in Dictyostelium discoideum, we searched databases for sequences encoding potential members of the neuronal calcium sensor (NCS) family of Ca2+‐binding proteins. As a result, genes for five new putative Ca2+‐binding proteins were identified. Based on amino acid sequence alignments and phylogenetic analyses, one of these genes (ncsA) was determined to be closely related to NCS‐1/frequenin genes in other organisms. The protein product of ncsA (NcsA) binds 45Ca2+ and exhibits a dramatic gel mobility shift in the presence of Ca2+, suggesting that it is a Ca2+ sensor. ncsA‐null cells grow normally in axenic culture. However, on bacterial lawns, the ncsA‐null clones expand slowly and development begins prematurely within the plaques. In larger clones, ncsA‐null cells form narrow growth zones with evenly spaced aggregates along the inner edge, and closely packed fruiting bodies. An analysis of intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, developmental timing on phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) agar, and stage‐specific gene expression indicate that development of ncsA‐null cells is accelerated by 3–4 h. Together, these results suggest that NcsA might function in Dictyostelium to prevent cells from entering development prematurely in the presence of environmental nutrients.
Nerve development, growth and differentiation during regeneration inEnchytraeus fragmentosusandStylaria lacustris(Oligochaeta)
Authors: Müller Monika C. M.
Published: December 2004

Enchytraeus fragmentosus(Enchytraeidae) andStylaria lacustris(Naididae) are small terrestrial and limnetic oligochaetes that exclusively or seasonally reproduce by fragmentation and regeneration, respectively. We traced the neuronal development and differentiation during regeneration in order to gain information on the basic organization and evolution of the oligochaete nervous system. Subsequent to artificial amputation, the nervous systems have been stained with antibodies directed against acetylated α‐tubulin. The staining was analyzed by indirect fluorescence in combination with confocal laser scanning microscopy. Both species show unique oligochaete neuronal regeneration patterns: (i) numerous fibers branch off from segmental nerves near the wound site and innervate the blastema; and (ii) the ventral cord is partly reestablished before the circumesophageal connectives develop. In the investigated ‘Oligochaeta’ the outgrowing fibers of the ventral nerve cord are soon bundled into at least two distinct connective pairs, which prolong into dorsal and ventral roots next to the mouth. Subsequent complete fusion of the doubled roots forms simple connectives. Thus, dorsal roots are not a unique feature for ‘Polychaeta’. They occur as a transient structure in ‘Oligochaeta’ and might be part of the neuronal ground pattern of Annelida. The initially tetra or even pentaneuronal ventral nerve cord also differentiates into an unineuronal one by fusion.
MORPHOLOGY, LIFE HISTORY, AND MOLECULAR PHYLOGENY OF STSCHAPOVIA FLAGELLARIS (TILOPTERIDALES, PHAEOPHYCEAE) AND THE ERECTION OF THE STSCHAPOVIACEAE FAM. NOV.1
Authors: Kawai Hiroshi , Sasaki Hideaki
Published: December 2004

The phenology, life history, ultrastructure of reproductive structures, and molecular phylogeny using rbcL and rDNA (5.8S, internal transcribed spacer 2, and partial 26S) gene sequences of Stschapovia flagellaris, endemic to the northwestern Pacific Ocean, were studied. This species was first classified in the order Delamareales together with Delamarea, Coelocladia, and Cladothele. Those three genera, however, were later transferred to Dictyosiphonales, whereas the systematic position of Stschapovia remained unclear. At Abashiri, Hokkaido, Japan, the species regenerated by forming a new erect thallus from a perennial crustose holdfast or by presumably parthenogenetic development of eggs released from the erect thallus. There was no alternation of generations. In winter, the monoecious erect thallus formed reproductive structures (i.e. plurilocular antheridia and oogonia) in the thickened part of the thallus. Sperm had a chloroplast with an eyespot and a long anterior and short posterior flagellum. Eggs contained numerous disc‐shaped chloroplasts, physodes, and vacuoles. Neither sexual attraction of the presumptive sperm by eggs nor their sexual fusion was observed. Molecular phylogenetic analyses revealed the closest phylogenetic relationship between Stschapovia and Halosiphonaceae, and they grouped with Phyllariaceae and Tilopteridaceae (Tilopteridales s. s.). Stschapovia and Tilopteridaceae have several important morphological similarities: chloroplasts lacking pyrenoids, lack of sexual reproduction despite the release of obvious sperm, occurrence of monoecious gametophytes, and similarity in the early developmental pattern of the erect thallus. In conclusion, we propose the establishment of the new family Stschapoviaceae to accommodate Stschapovia and the placement of the family in the order Tilopteridales together with Tilopteridaceae, Halosiphonaceae, and Phyllariaceae.
CRYPTIC SPECIES OF SCENEDESMUS (CHLOROPHYTA) FROM DESERT SOIL COMMUNITIES OF WESTERN NORTH AMERICA1
Authors: Lewis Louise A. , Flechtner Valerie R.
Published: December 2004

Nine isolates of unicellular green algae were obtained from six geographically separate desert microbiotic crust communities in western North America. Microscopically, eight isolates strongly resembled unicellular forms of Scenedesmus obliquus (Turpin) Kützing. They are oval or crescent shaped, often flattened on one side, with knobby cell apices. SEM indicated a lack of wall ornamentation. Fine filaments connecting cells pole to pole were observed in some isolates, as previously documented in Scenedesmus (Dactylococcus) dissociatus and S. obliquus. The ninth isolate was spherical, without knobby apices or connections between cells, and was similar to unicellular forms that were originally classified as species of Chlorella (Scenedesmus vacuolatus and S. rubescens). None of the isolates formed coenobia in liquid culture. Phylogenetic analysis of the 18S rRNA gene placed all desert isolates in the genus Scenedesmus, separating them into two or three weakly resolved groups along with published sequences of other Scenedesmus isolates. Phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer region revealed well‐supported lineages of desert algae that were unsupported with 18S data alone. The eight S. obliquus‐like desert strains formed two distinct clades that excluded the S. obliquus strains from geographically widespread nondesert habitats. The ninth strain was outside of the S. obliquus group, associated with S. raciborskii and S. pectinatus. These results demonstrate three lineages of Scenedesmus from desert soils and provide robust support for the presence of cryptic species in S. obliquus, a morphospecies that is said to have a cosmopolitan distribution. Three new species of Scenedesmus are described.
PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF PROTOPLASTS OBTAINED FROM THE PRASINOPHYTE SCHERFFELIA DUBIA (CHLOROPHYTA)1
Authors: Vierkotten Lars , Simon Andreas , Becker Burkhard
Published: December 2004

The prasinophyte genera Scherffelia and Tetraselmis are the only genera that form a cell wall by an extracellular fusion of scales called a theca. We established a protocol for the production of protoplasts from Scherffelia dubia Pascher emend. Melkonian et Preisig using 3 mM Ellman's reagent (5,5′‐dithio‐bis‐2‐nitrobenozoic acid [DTNB]). Protoplasts analyzed by EM lacked flagella and thecae but were otherwise similar to control cells. In response to treatment with DTNB, many protoplasts synthesized new thecal scales in the Golgi apparatus, indicating that cells attempted to regenerate new cell walls. However, complete regeneration of the thecae only occurred once DTNB was washed out from the medium. At higher DTNB concentrations (5 mM), two protoplasts were found within the parental cell wall and scales accumulated between the plasma membrane of the protoplasts and the original theca but failed to form a new theca.
PROPOSAL OF ECTOCARPUS SILICULOSUS (ECTOCARPALES, PHAEOPHYCEAE) AS A MODEL ORGANISM FOR BROWN ALGAL GENETICS AND GENOMICS1,2
Authors: Peters Akira F. , Marie Dominique , Scornet Delphine , Kloareg Bernard , Mark Cock J.
Published: December 2004

The emergence of model organisms that permit the application of a powerful combination of genomic and genetic approaches has been a major factor underlying the advances that have been made in the past decade in dissecting the molecular basis of a wide range of biological processes. However, the phylogenetic distance separating marine macroalgae from these model organisms, which are mostly from the animal, fungi, and higher plant lineages, limits the latters' applicability to problems specific to macroalgal biology. There is therefore a pressing need to develop similar models for the macroalgae. Here we describe a survey of potential model brown algae in which particular attention was paid to characteristics associated with a strong potential for genomic and genetic analysis, such as a small nuclear genome size, sexuality, and a short life cycle. Flow cytometry of nuclei isolated from zoids showed that species from the Ectocarpales possess smaller haploid genomes (127–290 Mbp) than current models among the Laminariales (580–720 Mbp) and Fucales (1095–1271 Mbp). Species of the Ectocarpales may complete their life histories in as little as 6 weeks in laboratory culture and are amenable to genetic analyses. Based on this study, we propose Ectocarpus siliculosus (Dillwyn) Lyngbye as an optimal choice for a general model organism for the molecular genetics of the brown algae.
IDENTIFICATION OF A PSYCHROPHILIC GREEN ALGA FROM LAKE BONNEY ANTARCTICA: CHLAMYDOMONAS RAUDENSIS ETTL. (UWO 241) CHLOROPHYCEAE1
Authors: Pocock Tessa , Lachance Marc‐André , Pröschold Thomas , Priscu John C. , Kim Sam Sulgi , Huner Norman P. A.
Published: December 2004

An unusual psychrophilic green alga was isolated from the deepest portion of the photic zone (<0.1% of incident PAR) at a depth of 17 m in the permanently ice‐covered lake, Lake Bonney, Antarctica. Here we identify and report the first detailed morphological and molecular examination of this Antarctic green alga, which we refer to as strain UWO 241. To determine the taxonomic identity, UWO 241 was examined using LM and TEM and partial sequences of the small subunit (SSU), internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 1 and ITS2 regions (including the 5.8S) of the ribosomal operon. These data were compared with those of previously described taxa. We identified UWO 241 as a strain of Chlamydomonas raudensis Ettl (SAG 49.72). Chlamydomonas raudensis is closely related to C. noctigama Korshikov (UTEX 2289) as well as foraminifer symbionts such as C. hedleyi Lee, Crockett, Hagen et Stone (ATCC 50216). In addition, its morphology, pigment complement, and phototactic response to temperature are reported. Chlamydomonas raudensis (UWO 241) contains relatively high levels of lutein and low chl a/b ratios (1.6±0.15), and the phototactic response was temperature dependent. The Antarctic isolate (UWO 241) included the typical photosynthetic pigments found in all chl a/b containing green algae. It possesses a small eyespot and, interestingly, was positively phototactic only at higher nonpermissive growth temperatures. Comparison of SSU and ITS rDNA sequences confirms the identification of the strain UWO 241 as C. raudensis Ettl and contradicts the previous designation as C. subcaudata Wille.
Form Analysis Using Digital Signal Processing Reliably Discriminates Far‐Field R Waves from P Waves
Authors: VAN HEMEL NORBERT M. , WOHLGEMUTH PETER , ENGBERS JOS G. , LAWO THOMAS , NEBAZNIVY JAN , TABORSKY MILOS , WITTE JOACHIM , BOUTE WIM , MUNNEKE DAVE , VAN GROENINGEN CHRIS
Published: December 2004

The correct detection of atrial arrhythmias by pacemakers is often limited by the presence of far‐field R waves (FFRWs) in the atrial electrogram. Digital signal processing (DSP) of intracardiac signals is assumed to provide improved discrimination between P waves and FFRWs when compared to current methods. For this purpose, 100 bipolar and unipolar intracardiac atrial recordings from 31 patients were collected during pacemaker replacement and used for the off‐line application of a novel DSP algorithm. Digital processing of the atrial intracardiac electrogram (IEGM) signals (8 bit, 800 samples/s) included filtering and calculation of the maximum amplitude and slope of the detected events. The form parameter was calculated, being the sum of the most negative value of the amplitude and that of the slope of the detected event. The algorithm collects form parameter data of P waves and FFRWs and composes histograms of these data. A sufficiently large gap between the FFRW and P wave histograms allows discrimination of these two signals based on form parameters. Three independent observers reviewed the reliability of classification with this algorithm. Sensitivity and specificity of FFRW detection were 99.63% and 100%, respectively, and no P waves were falsely classified. It can be concluded that this novel DSP algorithm shows excellent discrimination of FFRWs under off‐line conditions and justify the implementation of this algorithm in future pacemakers for real‐time discrimination between P waves and FFRWs. This method prevents false mode switching and allows correct and immediate intervention pacing for atrial tachyarrhythmias.