bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement of factor Xa‐antithrombin III in plasma: relationship to prothrombin activation in vivo
Authors: GOUIN‐THIBAULT ISABELLE , DEWAR LORI , KULCZYCKY MYRON , STERNBACH MARION , OFOSU FREDERICK A.
Published: March 2008

Summary. The Mr of the complexes formed when factor Xa reacts with antithrombin III (ATIII) in plasma were estimated by gel filtration and SDS‐polyacrylamide electrophoresis. The predominant species of factor Xa‐ATIII detected after plasma and plasma to which factor Xa had been added were gel filtered on Sephadex G‐200 and Sepharose 4B had apparent Mr >200 000, in which factor Xa‐ATIII was associated with vitronectin. Addition of factor Xa‐ATIII to ATIII‐depleted plasma also resulted in the formation of factor Xa‐ATIII‐vitronectin complexes with Mr > 200 000. Using polyclonal antibodies to human factor Xa‐ATIII and ATIII as the capture and detector antibodies, respectively, a sensitive and specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was developed to quantify factor Xa‐ATIII in plasma. The relationship between factor Xa‐ATIII production and prothrombinase activity in vivo was investigated by quantifying factor Xa‐ATIII and prothrombin fragment 1 + 2 endogenous to the plasmas of blood donors and patients with Hodgkin's and non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma. Whereas the concentrations of prothrombin fragment 1+2 in the 84 normal plasmas increased with age, those of factor Xa‐ATIII (mean ±SD of 34.7 ± 13.8 PM) did not, and no correlation existed between the concentrations of the two parameters in normal plasmas. In contrast, a highly significant correlation between the concentrations of these two parameters was found in the plasmas of the cancer patients which coincidentally also had higher concentrations of both factor Xa‐ATIII and prothrombin fragment 1 + 2 than the normal plasmas. Thus, ATIII may differentially influence prothrombinase formation and activity in normal individuals and cancer patients.
Excessive bone resorption in human plasmacytomas: direct induction by tumour cells in vivo
Authors: BATAILLE REGIS , CHAPPARD DANIEL , BASLE MICHEL
Published: March 2008

Summary. We studied the bone resorption (BR) in 82 patients with overt plasmacytomas (PCT) by histomorpho‐metry. All the solitary PCT and 90% of overt PCT in complete remission lacked excessive BR. In contrast, 73% of the 68 patients with active overt PCT had an excessive BR. This excessive BR was highly related to the presence of tumour cells within the bone sample. Indeed, 92% of patients with active PCT and tumour cells within the biopsy had an excessive BR. On the other hand, 70% of patients with active PCT but lacking tumour cells within the biopsy had normal BR.
Clinical and laboratory effects of long‐term administration of hydroxyurea to patients with sickle‐cell/β‐thalassaemia
Authors: Voskaridou Ersi , Kalotychou Vassiliki , Loukopoulos Dimitris
Published: March 2008

Hydroxyurea (HU), a widely used cytostatic, has been given over a long period of time to 14 adult Caucasian compound heterozygotes for βs and various β‐thalassaemia genes. All patients had severe pain crises and other complications prior to receiving the drug. After 4‐8 weeks on high ‘sub‐toxic’doses of HU all patients responded with a multifold increase of fetal haemoglobin (HbF) and a marked increase of MCV and MCH; they also felt significantly better and ceased having pains or other complaints. Haematological toxicity was minimal and rapidly reversible. Follow‐up of the patients has now exceeded 100 weeks and goes up to 180 weeks in two of them. Pain crises have never recurred. Maintenance of high levels of HBF requires continuous administration of high doses of HU; whenever the latter were decrease in various attempts to avoid potential long‐term toxicity, the observed changes gradually faded. The effect of HU in HbS/β‐thalassaemia may be better than that reported for homozygous HbS disease because the synthesized λ‐chains not only inhibit the sickling process but they also neutralize the noxious effects of the excess α‐chains and cut down the ineffective erythropoiesis of the patients.
Fatal haemoptysis in pulmonary filamentous mycosis: an underevaluated cause of death in patients with acute leukaemia in haematological complete remission. A retrospective study and review of the literature
Authors: PAGANO LIVIO , Ricci Paolo , Nosari Annamaria , Tonso Anna , Buelli Massimo , Montillo Marco , Cudillo Laura , Cenacchi Annarita , Savignana Chiara , Melillo Lorella , Chierichini Anna , Marra Roberto , Bucaneve Giampaolo , Leone Giuseppe , Favero Albano Del ,   The Gimema Infection Program(Gruppo Italiano Malattie Ematologiche dell'Adulto)
Published: March 2008

A retrospective study on a consecutive series of 116 patients affected by acute leukaemia with documented pulmonary filamentous mycosis (FM) admitted between 1987 and 1992 to 14 tertiary‐care hospitals in Italy was made in order to evaluate the characteristics of those patients who developed fatal massive haemoptysis.

In 59/116 cases of pulmonary FM the infection was the principal cause of death and in 12 of these patients a massive haemoptysis was responsible for death. The diagnosis of FM infection was made ante‐mortem in only four out of these 12 patients. The autopsy was performed in 11/12 patients and documented a FM infection. The mycetes isolated were: Hyphomycetes spp. (three patients), Mucorales spp. (two patients), Aspergillus spp. (seven patients).

At the time of the massive haemoptysis the mean neutrophil count was 7.2x109/1, and no patient had relevant thrombocytopenia (mean 184x109/1, range 28‐350) or coagulative abnormalities. The mean time which elapsed between resolution of chemotherapy‐induced neutropenia (WBC <109/1) and occurrence of haemoptysis was 7 d. No signs or symptoms predictive of this fatal complication were identified.

Massive haemoptysis can be the cause of death in patients with acute leukaemia and pulmonary FM which in the majority of patients was not diagnosed in vivo. This complication occurs most frequently shortly after the recovery from chemotherapy‐induced aplasia. The mechanism of lesion is unknown, but it may involve the vascular tropism of FM and the release of leucocyte enzymes. Better preventive and therapeutic antifungal treatments are needed to avoid this serious, albeit rare, complication.
T‐cell‐depleted allogeneic bone marrow transplantation for acute leukaemia using Campath‐1 antibodies and post‐transplant administration of donor's peripheral blood lymphocytes for prevention of relapse
Authors: Naparstek E. , Or R. , Nagler A. , Cividalli G. , Engelhard D. , Aker M. , Gimon Z. , Manny N. , Sacks T. , Tochner Z. , Weiss L. , Samuel S. , Brautbar C. , Hale G. , Waldmann H. , Steinberg S. M. , SLAVIN S.
Published: March 2008

One hundred and forty‐six patients with acute leukaemia (81 with ANLL and 65 with ALL) received allogeneic bone marrow transplantation from their fully matched siblings. 121 patients underwent T‐cell depletion (TCD) using Campath 1 monoclonal rat anti‐human lymphocyte (CDw52) antibodies; 67 with Campath 1M and 54 with Campath 1G isotypes. Patients were conditioned for transplant using either total body irradiation combined with chemotherapy (125 patients) or busulfan and cyclophosphamide (21 patients). 112 recipients of T‐cell depleted allografts received in addition total lymphoid irradiation (TLI) for prevention of rejection. Engraftment of neutrophils (>0.5 × 109/l) and platelets (>25 × 109/l) occurred on days 15 and 18, and on days 18 and 20 in recipients of Campath 1M and Campath 1G treated marrows respectively. Rejection was documented in 6.8% of T‐cell depleted transplants. Leukaemia relapse‐free survival at 2 years was 83% for patients transplanted in first CR, 76% in second CR (P2= 0.34) and 42% in advanced leukaemia (P2= 0.009). 81 marrow recipients, 38 with Campath 1M and 43 with Campath 1G treated marrow, received post‐transplant graded increments of donor's peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) to induce graft‐versus‐leukaemia (GVL) effects. Administration of donor's PBL was associated with clinically significant GVHD and with decreased relapse rate especially in patients with ALL. Our data suggest that in patients receiving marrow allografts depleted of T cells by Campath 1 monoclonal antibodies, rejection can be reduced by adequate pregrafting immunosuppression. In patients with advanced disease, post‐transplant cell‐mediated immunotherapy (CMI) using donor's PBL may be beneficial; however, further studies are needed to define the optimal schedule of CMI for safe and effective prevention of relapse following TCD bone marrow transplantation in malignant haematological diseases.
Heterogeneity of t(1;19)(q23;p13) acute leukaemias
Authors: Troussard Xavier , Rimokh Ruth , Valensi Francoise , Leboeuf Daniel , Fennbtbau Odile , Guitard Anne‐Marie , Manel Anne‐Marie , Schillinger Franćloise , Leglise Chantal , Brizard André , Gardais Jacques , Lessard Michel , Flandrin Georges , Macintyre Elizabeth ,   For the French Haematological Cytology Group
Published: March 2008

The t(1; 19)(q23;p13) translocation occurs commonly in B‐lineage ALL. Previous reports have demonstrated a predominance of cases with expression of cytoplasmic Igμ (Cμ+), an FAB L1/L2 phenotype, a poor prognosis and expression of a fusion transcript involving the E2A and PBX1 genes in Cμ+ but not in Cμ‐ cases.

Of 38 patients with karyotypically proven t(1;19) (q23;p13) leukaemias, we extensively analysed 18 patients with acute leukaemia including 16 B‐lineage ALLs, one T‐ALL and one AML M4. The AML was associated with a classic E2A‐PBX1 fusion transcript and may represent the human counterpart of the AMLs induced by E2A‐PBX1 retroviral infection of murine marrow progenitors. The T‐ALL was E2A‐PBX1 negative and neither the E2A nor the LYL‐1 genes, both situated at chromosome 19 p13, were rearranged. Of the 16 B‐lineage ALLs, four had cytological features resembling an ‘L3‐like’phenotype classically associated with Burkitt's lymphoma, two at diagnosis and relapse and two exclusively at relapse. E2A‐PBX1 fusion transcripts were detected by RT‐PCR in all 13 Cμ+ patients and in 2/3 Cμ‐ cases. The ‘L3‐like’phenotype did not correlate with a particular stage of maturation arrest (one sIg+, one Cμ+, one Cμ‐) or type of E2A‐PBX1 transcript, but was associated in all cases with a trisomy 8. Translocation, rearrangement, amplification or over‐expression of the c‐myc gene was not observed in these cases, demonstrating that the apparent association with trisomy 8 is not due to deregulation of this gene.

We therefore show that the E2A‐PBX1 transcript. although occurring predominantly in Cμ+ pre‐B ALL, also occurs in Cμ‐ early pre‐B ALL, sIg+ B‐ALL and even in AML. These results suggest that the stage of maturation arrest, and indirectly the prognosis, are not soiely due to the type of fusion transcript associated with the t(1;19).
Emergence of karyotypically unrelated clone in remission of de novo acute myeloblastic leukaemias
Authors: Kudoh Shiori , Asou Hiroya , Kyo Taiichi , Asaoku Hideki , Dohy Hiroo , Eguchi Mariko , Tashiro Satoshi , Tanaka Kimio , Kamada Nanao
Published: March 2008

Serial cytogenetic analysis revealed karyotypically unrelated clones in four patients with acute myeloblastic leukaemia (AML) in remission. At diagnosis, three patients had t(8;21)(q22;q22) and one had an inv(16)(p13q22). After 18‐22 months in remission, different clones emerged in each patient with myelodysplastic features of the bone marrow cells. The emergence of clones with abnormalities of chromosome 7 in remission seems to be an unfavourable factor for prognosis.
Philadelphia‐chromosome‐negative peripheral blood stem cells can be mobilized in the early phase of recovery after a myelosuppressive chemotherapy in Philadelphia‐chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Carella Angelo M. , Frassoni Francesco , Pollicardo Nicoletta , Pungolino Ester , Ferrero Raffaella , Vasallo Franca , Soracco Monica , Giordano Domenico , Figari Osvaldo , Benvenuto Federica , Florio Gaetano , Carlier Paolo , Valbonesi Mauro
Published: March 2008

Ten patients in first or second relapse with Philadelphia chromosome acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, ineligible for allogeneic sibling marrow transplantation, were treated with an intensive chemotherapy regimen including idarubicin, intermediate‐dose arabinosylcytosine, etoposide and G‐CSF. Peripheral blood stem cells were collected by leukapheresis during initial early WBC recovery from chemotherapy‐Induced aplasia. In 5/10 patients all metaphases in leukapheresis products were found to be Philadelphia‐chromosome‐negative and they have been used as autotransplants after conditioning with TBI/etoposide/cyclophosphamide (or idarubicin) and G‐CSF. All five patients showed sustained engraftment and one of them is alive and well Philadelphia‐chromosome‐negative 18 months after transplant. These preliminary results suggest that it is possible to recover Philadelphia‐chromosome‐negative blood stem cells after intensive chemotherapy, even in advanced patients, and to perform autografting with these cells.
Interferon alfa‐2b versus no maintenance therapy during the plateau phase in multiple myeloma: a randomized study
Authors: Westin Jan , Rödjer Stig , Turesson Ingemar , Cortelezzi Agostino , Hjorth Martin , Zador Göran ,   for a Cooperative Study Group
Published: March 2008

This clinical trial was designed to investigate if maintenance therapy with alfa‐interferon could prolong the plateau phase in patients with multiple myeloma. In addition, the tolerability of interferon treatment and its effect on survival were evaluated.

From September 1987 to September 1989 a total of 314 patients were accrued to a multi‐institutional randomized clinical trial. All patients entered into the protocol received standard melphalan‐prednisone (MP) induction therapy. Response was noted in 184 (59%) and a plateau phase achieved in 155 (49%). From the latter group, 125 eligible patients were randomized to either interferon alfa‐2b or no maintenance. The patients were followed for an average of 51 months (minimum 36 months) from the time of randomization.

The plateau phase was significantly prolonged in the group of patients treated with interferon (median 13.9 v 5.7 months from the time of randomization;P< 0.0001). The interferon therapy was tolerated fairly well, moderate granulocytopenia and a chronic fatigue syndrome being the most frequent side‐effects (22% v 18% W.H.O. grade 3 toxicity). The median survival from randomization was almost identical in both groups (36 v 35 months).

The study shows that interferon maintenance therapy given to multiple myeloma patients who have achieved a response to initial treatment with MP prolongs the plateau phase duration with tolerable toxicity. The clinical value of this finding should be interpreted with caution, because survival was not prolonged. Further studies are required to clarify the role of interferon in the treatment of multiple myeloma.
Antithrombin‐TRI (Ala 382 to Thr) causing severe thromboembolic tendency undergoes the S‐to‐R transition and is associated with a plasma‐inactive high‐molecular‐weight complex of aggregated antithrombin
Authors: Lindo V. S. , Kakkar V. V. , Learmonth M. , Melissari E. , Zappacosta F. , Panico M. , Morris H. R.
Published: March 2008

An antithrombin (AT) variant Ala382 to Thr (AT‐TRI) was identified by mass spectrometric techniques. The variant behaved as a substrate rather than a thrombin inhibitor, but, contrary to previously described P12 AT variants, AT‐TRI, expressed as a heterozygous dominant trait, caused severe thromboembolic tendency beginning in their teens in affected members of an English family. In addition, it underwent the S‐to‐R conformational state transition as evidenced by an increased resistance to thermal denaturation on active centre cleavage, but did not react with a monoclonal antibody, 4C9, directed against a neoepitope that is present on complexed and cleaved normal AT. Antithrombin‐TRI, in plasma, was also associated with an abnormal high molecular weight (Mr 194000) component composed of non‐covalently‐linked antithrombin molecules. This component (D194) showed low affinity for heparin and was devoid of antithrombin progressive activity. D194, isolated by ammonium sulphate precipitation and three chromatographic steps (heparin Sepharose, ion exchange and immunoaffinity), migrated as a single band of Mr 60000 on SDS‐PAGE under both reducing and non‐reducing conditions and was recognized by monospecific anti‐human antithrombin antibodies, but did not immunoreact with antibodies raised against a number of proteins including albumin and thrombin. The above data and the fact that the 15 N‐terminal amino acids of this Mr 60 000 band were identical to that of normal antithrombin indicated that the inactive D194 component was composed of aggregated antithrombin molecules, possibly antithrombin trimers.

In conclusion, early adulthood severe thromboembolic tendency, failure to expose the 4C9 epitope, and presence of aggregated AT molecules in the plasma are characteristic features of AT‐TRI not previously described in other ALA‐382 THR mutations.
The first report of familial adult T‐cell leukaemia lymphoma in the United Kingdom
Authors: Matutes Estella , Spittle Margaret F. , Smith Neil P. , Eady Robin A. J. , Catovsky Daniel
Published: March 2008

We describe two siblings who developed adult T‐cell leukaemia lymphoma (ATLL) within 4 years. Both were black of Afro‐Caribbean extraction, but one had been born in the United Kingdom and had visited the Caribbean only once. Both patients were HTLV‐1 seropositive, as was their mother; their father and brother were negative. The older sibling had the lymphoma form of ATLL, whilst the younger had chronic ATLL. The former was unresponsive to chemotherapy and died of progressive disease; the latter experienced transient responses to various treatments and is alive 5 years after presentation. Immunophenotyping showed a CD4+, CD25+ phenotype; Southern blot demonstrated a monoclonal integration of HTLV‐I in the tissues involved. This report, of the first familial ATLL in the U.K., supports the suggestion of transmission of HTLV‐I from mother to child and documents the development of ATLL in second‐generation Caribbean immigrants.
Refractory anaemia with preleukaemic polyclonal haemopoiesis and the emergence of monoclonal erythropoiesis on disease progression
Authors: Culligan Dominic J. , Bowen David T. , May Alison , White Denise , Padua Rose Ann , Burnett Alan K.
Published: March 2008

We describe a young woman with a myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) of the type refractory anaemia (RA) which remained stable for 11 years and then underwent rapid progression manifested by bone marrow failure with the emergence of a complex clonal cytogenetic abnormality. Peripheral blood granulocytes. mononuclear cells and bone marrow erythro‐blasts were all polyclonal by X‐inactivation analysis detected by the probe M27B during the preleukaemic phase. On disease progression, bone marrow erythroblasts developed an extremely skewed monoclonal pattern of X‐inactivation.

In some cases of MDS, therefore, polyclonal haemopoiesis can be detected for a considerable time during the preleukaemic phase and we report the demonstration of bone marrow erythroblasts changing from a polyclonal to a monoclonal pattern on disease progression.
Evidence of clonality in a child with haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Owen G. , Webb D. K. H.
Published: March 2008

DNA from the bone marrow of a child with haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis was examined by polymerase chain reaction for evidence of rearrangement of the T‐cell receptor delta chain gene. Evidence of clonal rearrangement was detected, supporting a role for abnormalities of T‐cell function in the pathogenesis of this disorder.
Méligèthes du colza: Evolution et gestion des résistances aux pyréthrinoïdes en France et recommandations pour gérer le risque
Authors: Délos M.
Published: March 2008

Cet article est la reproduction de la note de synthèse INRA, CETIOM, Service de la protection des végétaux sur le contrôle des méligèthes du colza, note élaborée pour illustrer l’année 2007 et préparer 2008. Il rappelle l’évolution des dégâts de l’insecte et des phénomènes de résistance depuis 1999, date de leur caractérisation. Il liste les facteurs considérés comme importants pour l’évolution des dégâts et de la résistance dans les conditions françaises. L’importance de la réduction des traitements insecticides est soulignée, notamment au travers de l’utilisation des seuils. Les perspectives pour voir émerger d’autres moyens de gestion du risque sont abordées dans la seconde partie notamment au travers des plantes pièges. L’ensemble de ces travaux est consigné dans la présente note, assorti de recommandations pour la gestion des phénomènes de résistance dans le contexte français.
Pyrethroid sensitivity monitoring in Germany of oilseed rape pest insects other than pollen beetle
Authors: Müller A. , Heimbach U. , Thieme T.
Published: March 2008

Pyrethroid resistant pollen beetles (Meligethes aeneus) are widely distributed in Germany and other European countries. Other insect pests on oilseed rape are also exposed to pyrethroids which often have more than one application per season. In spite of this scarce information about the sensitivity of other oilseed rape pest insects is available. To address this monitoring of pyrethroid sensitivity of different oilseed rape pest insects has been carried out since 2005. Laboratory experiments were conducted using an adult‐vial‐test design with samples collected in different areas of Germany.

Most samples of Ceutorhynchus napi, C. assimilis, C. pallidactylus, Dasineura brassicae, Phyllotreta spp. and Psylliodes chrysocephala tested from 2005–2007 showed 100% mortality at 0.003 and 0.015 µg/cm2 lambda‐cyhalothrin used as reference test pyrethroid. Some samples especially of C. pallidactylus, C. napi and C. assimilis showed a lower mortality with alive and healthy beetles at 0.015 µg/cm2 lambda‐cyhalothrin. For all samples tested from 2005–2007 100% mortality was found only at higher rates of 0.0375 or 0.075 µg/cm2 lambda‐cyhalothrin.

To date, no clear pyrethroid resistance has been detected in other oil seed rape pest insect populations in Germany.
Current status of resistance in pollen beetle (Meligethes aeneus F.) to selected active substances of insecticides in Poland
Authors: Węgorek P. , Zamoyska J.
Published: March 2008

Chemical plant protection is still an indispensable method in effective oilseed rape protection against the pollen beetle (Meligethes aeneus F.) in Poland. This species is able to develop strong resistance against active substances used in synthetic insecticides. The phenomenon of pollen beetle resistance is currently found in many European countries. Therefore the objective of the study was to determine the present susceptibility level of Polish populations of pollen beetle to the main groups of insecticides recommended in Poland for pollen beetle control. The research showed high resistance of most tested Polish pollen beetle populations to many active substances of all chemical groups of insecticides applied in Poland.
Pyrethroid resistance in Finnish pollen beetle (Meligethes aeneus) populations – is it around the corner?
Authors: Tiilikainen T. M. , Hokkanen H. M. T.
Published: March 2008

The pollen beetle Meligethes aeneus F. is the most important pest of rapeseed [Brassica rapa subsp. oleifera (DC.) Metzg.] in Finland. After over 20 years of intensive rapeseed growing and annual spraying with pyrethroids, the probability of resistance development may be high. Population samples of the pollen beetle from four different regions representing a range of Finnish rapeseed growing practices were collected, and tested for pyrethroid resistance. Region 1 had a history of intensive rapeseed growing for about 30 years, in region 4 no rapeseed had ever been grown (reference region), and regions 2 and 3 represented differing intermediates in growing intensity (proportion of growing area allocated to rapeseed) and growing history. A standard dip test with lambda‐cyhalothrin was used in a dilution series with ten different concentrations. Some of the dipped beetles were also weighed. Insecticide susceptibility in the populations collected from region one differed significantly from the others: 60% of those populations survived the standard dose. There was no difference in the median weight of surviving and dead individuals in the most resistant population, while in the most susceptible population the size of individual beetles significantly affected the probability of death by the insecticide treatment.
Ecological approaches to the control of pollen beetles in oilseed rape
Authors: Cook S. M. , Denholm I.
Published: March 2008

At a time of increasing demand for rapeseed oil for biofuel and food use and as increasing areas are grown, the risk of pollen beetle resistance to pyrethroids presents a significant threat to the sustainability of the oilseed rape crop and to farm incomes. Measures are urgently required to reduce the use of insecticides against pollen beetles, to preserve activity of the limited armoury of insecticides and minimise environmental pollution. In this paper, the status of pollen beetle resistance to pyrethroid insecticides and current control methods are presented from a UK perspective. Three ecological approaches to the control of pollen beetles that are based on research into their behaviour and ecology and that of their natural enemies are highlighted: use of monitoring, trap cropping and conservation biological control. These approaches have the potential to significantly reduce insecticide use against pollen beetles by helping to identify when spray thresholds have been breached, reducing pest incidence in the crop and increasing populations of natural enemies, respectively.
Survey for viruses infecting onion, garlic and leek crops in Iran
Authors: Shahraeen N. , Lesemann D. E. , Ghotbi T.
Published: March 2008

Surveys to identify virus diseases affecting garlic (Allium sativum), onion (Allium cepa) and Persian leek (Allium ampeloprasum var. persicum) were conducted from 1999 to 2002. Surveys covered different regions of Iran (Tehran [different vegetable markets, farmer fields and cultivation areas], Noushahr, Chalous, Roudbar, Sari, Hamadan, Touyserkan, Ghazvin and Jiroft). A total of 2045 (1285 garlic, 525 onion and 230 leek) samples showing symptoms of virus infection were collected and tested by ELISA; and in some cases tests were also confirmed by immunoelectron microscopy (IEM) for the presence of Allium viruses. ELISA results showed that the following viruses were detected: Onion yellow dwarf virus (OYDV), Leek yellow stripe virus (LYSV) (genus Potyvirus, family Potyviridae), Garlic common latent virus (GarCLV), Shallot latent virus (SLV) (genus Carlavirus), Garlic virus D (GarV‐D), Garlic virus B (GarV‐B) and Garlic virus C type (GarV‐C) (genus Allexivirus). None of the samples reacted with antibodies to Shallot yellow stripe virus (SYSV) genus Potyvirus, family Potyviridae), Shallot virus X (ShVX) and Garlic virus A (GarV‐A, genus Allexivirus). GarCLV, SLV, GarV‐D, GarV‐B and GarV‐C are reported for the first time from Allium crops in Iran.
Predicting downstream migration of silver eels in a large river catchment based on commercial fishery data
Authors: DURIF C. M. F. , ELIE P.
Published: March 2008

Abstract  Worldwide, populations of catadromous eels are in decline. Knowledge on downstream migration patterns is needed to mitigate damage caused by hydroelectric stations. Silver eel migration and its relation with environmental factors were investigated using data from a fishery located in the lower reaches of a large catchment (110 000 m2). Migration days, indicative of different proportions (50%, 75% and 95%) of the annual run of eels (i.e. represented by the annual catch), were predicted using discriminant analyses. Efficiency of prediction was 58–95% depending on the proportion of the run targeted. The onset of migration was correlated with sunshine hours, August temperature and discharge. Julian days (i.e. photoperiod) was significantly correlated with migration days, indicating between‐year similarity in the dynamics of the runs. The size of migrants varied within the migration season, reflecting differences in their initial spatial distribution.
Ten testicular trapdoors
Authors: Rajab R , Berney D M
Published: March 2008

Testicular pathology is difficult and there are a number of areas where diagnostic errors may lead to inappropriate treatment. We therefore describe ten areas of testicular pathology which may cause diagnostic confusion for pathologists: ten testicular trapdoors.
Pliocene climatic change in insular Southeast Asia as an engine of diversification inFicedulaflycatchers
Authors: Outlaw Diana Cumings , Voelker Gary
Published: March 2008

Aims Insular Southeast Asia and adjacent regions are geographically complex, and were dramatically affected by both Pliocene and Pleistocene changes in climate, sea level and geology. These circumstances allow the testing of several biogeographical hypotheses regarding species distribution patterns and phylogeny. Avian species in this area present a challenge to biogeographers, as many are less hindered by barriers that may block the movements of other species. Widely distributed Southeast Asian avian lineages, of which there are many, have been generally neglected.Ficedulaflycatchers are distributed across Eurasia, but are most diverse within southern Asia and Southeast Asian and Indo‐Australian islands. We tested the roles of vicariance, dispersal and the evolution of migratory behaviours as mechanisms of speciation within theFicedulaflycatchers, with a focus on species distributed in insular Southeast Asia.

Methods Using a published molecular phylogeny ofFicedulaflycatchers, we reconstructed ancestral geographical areas using dispersal vicariance analysis, weighted ancestral area analysis, and a maximum likelihood method. We evaluated the evolution of migratory behaviours using maximum likelihood ancestral character state reconstruction. Speciation timing estimates were calculated via local molecular clock methods.

Results Ficedulaoriginated in southern mainland Asia,c. 6.5 Ma. Our analyses indicate that two lineages withinFicedulaindependently and contemporaneously colonized insular Southeast Asia and Indo‐Australia,c. 5 Ma. The potential impact of vicariance due to rising sea levels is difficult to assess in these early colonization events because the ancestral areas to these clades are reconstructed as oceanic islands. Within each of these clades, inter‐island dispersal was critical to species’ diversification across oceanic and continental islands. Furthermore, Pliocene and Pleistocene climatic change may have caused the disjunct island distributions between several pairs of sister taxa. Both vicariance and dispersal shaped the distributions of continental species.

Main conclusions This study presents the first evaluation, forFicedula,of the importance of vicariance and dispersal in shaping distributions, particularly across insular Southeast Asia and Indo‐Australia. Although vicariant speciation may have initially separated the island clades from mainland ancestors, speciation within these clades was driven primarily by dispersal. Our results contribute to the emerging body of literature concluding that dynamic geological processes and climatic change throughout the Pliocene and Pleistocene have been important factors in faunal diversification across continental and oceanic islands.
Environmental influences on spatial and temporal patterns of body‐size variation in California ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyi)
Authors: Blois Jessica L. , Feranec Robert S. , Hadly Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2008

Aim  In order to understand how ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyi) may respond to future environmental change, we investigated five biotic and environmental factors potentially responsible for explaining body‐size variation in this species across California. We examined the concordance of spatial patterns with temporal body‐size change since the last glacial maximum (LGM).

Location  California, western North America.

Methods  We quantified body size of modern populations of ground squirrels (n = 81) and used a model‐selection approach to determine the best variables (sex, vegetation, number of congeners, temperature and/or precipitation) explaining geographical variation in body size among modern populations. We also quantified body size of one fossil population in northern California (n = 39) and compared temporal body‐size change in S. beecheyi at this location since the LGM with model predictions.

Results  Body size of modern populations conformed to Bergmann’s rule, with larger individuals in northern (wetter and cooler) portions of California. However, the models suggest that precipitation, rather than temperature or other variables, may best explain variation in body size across modern spatial gradients. Our conclusion is supported by the temporal data, demonstrating that the body size of S. beecheyi has increased in northern California since the LGM, concordant with precipitation but not temperature change in the region.

Main conclusions  Precipitation, rather than temperature, vegetation or number of congeneric species, was the main factor explaining both spatial and temporal patterns of body‐size variation in S. beecheyi. The integration of space and time provides a powerful mechanism for predicting how local populations may respond to current and future climatic changes.
Habitual caffeine intake in women of childbearing age
Authors: Derbyshire E. , Abdula S.
Published: March 2008

Background  For women, delayed conception and recurrent pregnant loss are just a few of the health implications associated with a caffeine‐rich diet (Mol. Hum. Reprod., 11, 357). At present there is a deficit of prospective research measuring current habitual intakes of caffeine in UK women. The purpose of the current study was to collect up‐to‐date baseline data to assess caffeine intake and knowledge in a group of women (aged 16–45 years).

Methods  Seventy Caucasian subjects (mean age 30.4 ± 8.7 years) were recruited from business offices within the Manchester area. Each participant completed a 3‐day food diary and lifestyle questionnaire.

Results  The mean intake of caffeine was 173.95 mg day−1 (±128.39 mg day−1). Eighteen per cent of subjects exceeded caffeine guidelines and consumed 300 mg caffeine or more each day. Subjects consuming over 300 mg day−1 were more likely to be older (P = 0.016) and smokers (P = 0.000). Individuals given previous advice about caffeine and health, had lower intakes (P = 0.002).

Conclusions  Many women are unaware of health perturbations associated with caffeine consumption. A diet abundant in caffeine may result in delayed conception, infertility and increased risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and cancer later in life. Such information needs to be conveyed to the public sector. Future research is also required to devise specific caffeine guidelines, particularly safe upper limits.
The conceptualisation of dreams by adults with intellectual disabilities: relationship with theory of mind abilities and verbal ability
Authors: Dodd A. , Hare D. J. , Hendy S.
Published: March 2008

Background  Empirical studies suggest that individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) have difficulties in conceptualising dreams as perceptually private, non‐physical, individuated and potentially fictional entities. The aim of the current study was to replicate the results found by Stenfert Kroese et al. using a comparative sample size, and to examine putative cognitive correlates of accurate dream conceptualisation [receptive language and 1st order theory of mind (ToM) abilities].

Method  Conceptualisation of dreams, real objects and photographs was assessed with a structured closed‐question interview schedule, together with receptive language, and ToM abilities.

Results  Findings from the current study replicated those of previous research, finding that many adults with ID tend to think that dreams take place around them, can be witnessed by others, can be touched and manipulated, can be shared by others and are about real events. The ability to accurately conceptualise dreams was found to increase along with receptive language ability, and there was a non‐significant association between ToM ability and the ability to understand that dreams can be about potentially fictional entities.

Conclusions  Some individuals with ID have a different understanding of mental phenomena such as dreams, which has implications for several aspects of care and support, particularly relating to mental health and therapeutic work.
A comparison of patients with intellectual disability receiving specialised and general services in Ontario's psychiatric hospitals
Authors: Lunsky Y. , Bradley E. , Durbin J. , Koegl C.
Published: March 2008

Background  Over the years, the closure of institutions has meant that individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs) must access mainstream (i.e. general) mental health services. However, concern that general services may not adequately meet the needs of patients with ID and mental illness has led to the development and implementation of more specialised programmes. This study compares patients with ID receiving specialised services to patients with ID receiving general services in Ontario's tertiary mental healthcare system in terms of demographics, symptom profile, strengths and resources and clinical service needs.

Method  A secondary analysis of Colorado Client Assessment Record data collected from all tertiary psychiatric hospitals in the province was completed for all 371 inpatients with ID, from both specialised and general programmes.

Results  Inpatients in specialised programmes were more likely to have a diagnosis of mood disorder and were less likely to have a substance abuse or psychotic disorder. Individuals receiving specialised services had higher ratings of challenging behaviour than those in more general programmes. The two groups did not differ significantly in terms of recommended level of care, although more inpatients from specialised programmes were rated as requiring Level 4 care than inpatients from general programmes.

Conclusions  In Ontario, inpatients in specialised and general programmes have similar overall levels of need but unique clinical profiles that should be taken into consideration when designing interventions for them.
Characterisation of user‐defined health status in older adults with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Starr J. M. , Marsden L.
Published: March 2008

Background  Older adults with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) have an excess disease burden that standard health assessments are designed to detect. Older adults with ID have a broader concept of health with dimensions of well being in addition to absence of disease in line with the World Health Organization's health definition. We sought to characterise user‐defined health status in a sample of older adults with ID.

Methods  We administered a user‐led health assessment to 57 adults with ID aged 40 years and over. Cluster analysis on user‐defined health themes of participation, nutrition and hygiene/self‐care identified clear separation of participants into a healthier and a less healthy group.

Results  Disease burden (P = 0.002) and medication use (P = 0.003) were greater in the less healthy group. The healthier group were taller (P = 0.005), stronger (P = 0.005) and had better vision (P < 0.001) than the less healthy group. Constipation (P = 0.014), urinary incontinence (P < 0.001) and faecal incontinence (P < 0.001) were commoner in the less healthy group. There were few significant differences between health groups on the majority of standard physical‐examination items.

Conclusions  There is considerable overlap between user‐defined health and that assessed by standard instruments. In addition, user‐defined health encompasses aspects of physical fitness not captured by traditional disease‐based health models.
β‐lactamase‐producing strains in the species Prevotella intermedia and Prevotella nigrescens
Authors: Bernal L. A. , Guillot E. , Paquet C. , Mouton C.
Published: March 2008

A total of 96 strains were collected that included laboratory strains and clinical isolates classified Prevotella intermedia sensu lato and the type strains of the species P. intermedia sensu stricto and Prevotella nigrescens. Susceptibility to amoxicillin and amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid was determined by the Etest. PCRDNA probe assays were used to speciate each strain as P. intermedia sensu stricto or P. nigrescens. By Etest, 71 strains (74%) were susceptible to both amoxicillin and amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid with minimum inhibitory concentrations in the 0.016–0.064 μg/ml range. In contrast, amoxicillin minimum inhibitory concentrations of 25 strains (26%) were in the range of 1.5–96 μg/ml with concomitant amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid minimum inhibitory concentrations in the low range 0.016–0.38 μg/ml, indicating a production of β‐lactamase as confirmed by nitrocefin tests. Of these β‐lactamase‐producing strains, 20% (5/25) were identified as P. intermedia sensu stricto by the PCR‐DNA probe assay and 72% (18/25) as P. nigrescens. Our results provide support for the major role of P. nigrescens in the failure of therapy using β‐lactam antibiotics.
Prevalence of Peptostreptococcus micros morphotypes in patients with adult periodontitis
Authors: van Dalen P. J. , van Winkelhoff A. J. , van Steenbergen T. J. M.
Published: March 2008

The prevalence of the smooth and rough colonial morphotypes of Peptostreptococcus micros was examined with culture technique in 123 patients with adult periodontitis (age 24–68 years). Of all subgingival samples, 91% contained the smooth morphotype of P. micros. The smooth morphotype constituted a mean percentage of the total anaerobic viable biota of 6.0%, with a range of 0.02–35.7%o. Of these samples, 49%> contained colonies of the rough morphotype as well, with a mean percentage of the total anaerobic viable biota of 2.3%> (range 0.01–16.2%i). None of the samples contained only the rough morphotype. The total percentage of P. micros varied from 0.02–35.71%> with a mean of 7.2%>. No correlation was found between the prevalence of both morphotypes of P. micros and the age of the subjects or with loss of attachment or pocket depth.
Light‐induced transpiration alters cell water relations in figleaf gourd (Cucurbita ficifolia) seedlings exposed to low root temperatures
Authors: Lee Seong Hee , Zwiazek Janusz J , Chung Gap Chae
Published: March 2008

Water relation parameters including elastic modulus (ε), half‐times of water exchange (Tw1/2), hydraulic conductivity and turgor pressure (P) were measured in individual root cortical and cotyledon midrib cells in intact figleaf gourd (Cucurbita ficifolia) seedlings, using a cell pressure probe. Transpiration rates (E) of cotyledons were also measured using a steady‐state porometer. The seedlings were exposed to low ambient (approximately 10 μmol m−2 s−1) or high supplemental irradiance (approximately 300 μmol m−2 s−1PPF density) at low (8°C) or warm (22°C) root temperatures. When exposed to low irradiance, all the water relation parameters of cortical cells remained similar at both root temperatures. The exposure of cotyledons to supplemental light at warm root temperatures, however, resulted in a two‐ to three‐fold increase in Tw1/2values accompanied with the reduced hydraulic conductivity in both root cortical (Lp) and cotyledon midrib cells (Lpc). Low root temperature (LRT) further reduced Lpcand E, whether it was measured under low or high irradiance levels. The reductions of Lp as the result of respective light and LRT treatments were prevented by the application of 1 μMABA. Midrib cells required higher concentrations of ABA (2 μM) in order to prevent the reduction in Lpc. When the exposure of cotyledons to light was accompanied by LRT, however, ABA proved ineffective in reversing the inhibition of Lp. LRT combined with high irradiance triggered a drastic 10‐fold reduction in water permeability of cortical and midrib cells and increasedεand Tw1/2values. Measurement of E indicated that the increased water demand by the transpiring plants was fulfilled by an increase in the apoplastic pathway as principal water flow route. The importance of water transport regulation by transpiration affecting the hydraulic conductivity of the roots is discussed.
Diurnal changes in epidermal UV transmittance of plants in naturally high UV environments
Authors: Barnes Paul W. , Flint Stephan D. , Slusser James R. , Gao Wei , Ryel Ronald J.
Published: March 2008

Studies were conducted on three herbaceous plant species growing in naturally high solar UV environments in the subalpine of Mauna Kea, Hawaii, USA, to determine if diurnal changes in epidermal UV transmittance (TUV) occur in these species, and to test whether manipulation of the solar radiation regime could alter these diurnal patterns. Additional field studies were conducted at Logan, Utah, USA, to determine if solar UV was causing diurnal TUV changes and to evaluate the relationship between diurnal changes in TUV and UV‐absorbing pigments. Under clear skies, TUV, as measured with a UV‐A‐pulse amplitude modulation fluorometer for leaves of Verbascum thapsus and Oenothera stricta growing in native soils and Vicia faba growing in pots, was highest at predawn and sunset and lowest at midday. These patterns in TUV closely tracked diurnal changes in solar radiation and were the result of correlated changes in fluorescence induced by UV‐A and blue radiation but not photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) or initial fluorescence yield (Fo). The magnitude of the midday reduction in TUV was greater for young leaves than for older leaves of Verbascum. Imposition of artificial shade eliminated the diurnal changes in TUV in Verbascum, but reduction in solar UV had no effect on diurnal TUV changes in Vicia. In Vicia, the diurnal changes in TUV occurred without detectable changes in the concentration of whole‐leaf UV‐absorbing compounds. Results suggest that plants actively control diurnal changes in UV shielding, and these changes occur in response to signals other than solar UV; however, the underlying mechanisms responsible for rapid changes in TUV remain unclear.
Role of nitric oxide in actin depolymerization and programmed cell death induced by fusicoccin in sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) cultured cells
Authors: Malerba Massimo , Contran Nicla , Tonelli Mariagrazia , Crosti Paolo , Cerana Raffaella
Published: March 2008

Programmed cell death (PCD) plays a vital role in plant development and is involved in defence mechanisms against biotic and abiotic stresses. Different forms of PCD have been described in plants on the basis of the cell organelle first involved. In sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus L.) cultured cells, the phytotoxin fusicoccin (FC) induces cell death. However, only a fraction of the dead cells shows the typical hallmarks of animal apoptosis, including cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation and release of cytochrome c from the mitochondrion. In this work, we show that the scavenging of nitric oxide (NO), produced in the presence of FC, by 2‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐4,4,5,5‐tetramethylimidazoline‐1‐oxyl‐3‐oxide (cPTIO) and rutin inhibits cell death without affecting DNA fragmentation and cytochrome c release. In addition, we show that FC induces a massive depolymerization of actin filaments that is prevented by the NO scavengers. Finally, the addition of actin‐depolymerizing drugs induces PCD in control cells and overcomes the inhibiting effect of cPTIO on FC‐induced cell death. Vice versa, the addition of actin‐stabilizing drugs to FC‐treated cells partially inhibits the phytotoxin‐induced PCD. These results suggest that besides an apoptotic‐like form of PCD involving the release of cytochrome c, FC induces at least another form of cell death, likely mediated by NO and independent of cytochrome c release, and they make it tempting to speculate that changes in actin cytoskeleton are involved in this form of PCD.