bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular cloning and characterization of novel centromeric repetitive DNA sequences in the blue-breasted quail (Coturnix chinensis, Galliformes)
Authors: Yamada K. , Shibusawa M. , Tsudzuki M. , Matsuda Y.
Published: June 2003

A new family of centromeric highly repetitive DNA sequences was isolated from EcoRI-digested genomic DNA of the blue-breasted quail (Coturnix chinensis, Galliformes), and characterized by filter hybridization and chromosome in situ hybridization. The repeated elements were divided into two types by nucleotide length and chromosomal distribution; the 578-bp element predominantly localized to microchromosomes and the 1,524-bp element localized to chromosomes 1 and 2. The 578-bp element represented tandem arrays and did not hybridize to genomic DNAs of other Galliformes species, chicken (Gallus gallus), Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) and guinea fowl (Numida meleagris). On the other hand, the 1,524-bp element was not organized in tandem arrays, and did hybridize to the genomic DNAs of three other Galliformes species, suggesting that the 1,524-bp element is highly conserved in the Galliformes. The 578-bp element was composed of basic 20-bp internal repeats, and the consensus nucleotide sequence of the internal repeats had homologies to the 41–42 bp CNM repeat and the XhoI family repeat of chicken. Our data suggest that the microchromosome-specific highly repetitive sequences of the blue-breasted quail and chicken were derived from a common ancestral sequence, and that they are one of the major and essential components of chromosomal heterochromatin in Galliformes species.
Comparative mapping of twenty-eight bovine loci in sheep (Ovis aries, 2n = 54) and river buffalo (Bubalus bubalis, 2n = 50) by FISH
Authors: Di Meo G.P. , Perucatti A. , Incarnato D. , Ferretti L. , Di Berardino D. , Caputi Jambrenghi A. , Vonghia G. , Iannuzzi L.
Published: June 2003

Peripheral blood cell cultures were treated for late incorporation of both BrdU and Hoechst-33258 to obtain R-banding pattern preparations. Twenty-eight bovine cosmids from 19 bovine syntenic groups (U), three of which contain type I loci and 25 which contain microsatellite loci and have previously been assigned to cattle chromosomes, were comparatively FISH-mapped to sheep and river buffalo chromosomes according to the standard karyotypes (13 loci for the first time in the latter species). The results enrich the physical maps of both species with information relative to the following loci and to the corresponding syntenic groups: IDVGA35 and IDVGA53 (U6), IDVGA61 and IDVGA84 (U13), JAB10 (U5), IDVGA41 and IDVGA57 (U27), IDVGA87 (U11), IDVGA32 and IDVGA10 (U19), IDVGA49, IDVGA66 and IDVGA68 (U1), ZNF164 (U23), IDVGA74 and IDVGA70 (U9), IDVGA47, IDVGA46 and IDVGA58 (U21), MAP1B (U14), IDVGA79 (U4), CATHL (U12), IDVGA71 (U8), IDVGA59 (U26), IDVGA29 (U29), IDVGA7 (U7), IDVGA82 (X), IDVGA50 (Y). All mapped loci were localized on homoeologous chromosomes and chromosome regions of the two species, confirming the high degree of chromosome homoeologies between the subfamilies Bovinae and Caprinae.
Effects of higher-order nuclear structure and Rad51 overexpression on radiation-induced chromosome rearrangements
Authors: Grandy I. , Hardt T. , Schmid M. , Haaf T.
Published: June 2003

The microchromosomes (MICs) in chicken DT40 lymphocytes are usually clustered in the center of the nucleus, whereas the macrochromosomes (MACs) are preferentially located toward the nuclear periphery. This compartmentalized architecture of the nucleus is associated with a low frequency of translocations between MICs and MACs after induction of DNA breaks by a radiation track(s). In contrast, the MICs in chick embryo fibroblasts (CEFs) tend to be located throughout the entire nuclear volume. The resulting side-to-side arrangement of MIC and MAC territories favors radiation-induced MIC/MAC translocations, which occur more frequently in CEF cells than MIC/MIC or MAC/MAC rearrangements. Collectively, our results suggest that preformed physical contacts are a prerequisite for the generation of chromosome rearrangements through recombinational repair of DNA damage. Cell type-specific higher-order nuclear organization may prevent or stimulate the formation of particular chromosome aberrations in pathology and evolution. Ectopic expression of the recombination protein Rad51 can protect cells from radiation-induced translocations. The repair activity of overexpressed Rad51 is more important for cells that are irradiated in S/G2 phase than for cells in G1 phase. Evidently, homologous recombination between sister chromatids of a replicated chromosome is more frequent than that between homologous or heterologous chromosomes during G1 phase.
Characterization, genetic variation and chromosomal assignment to sheep chromosome 2 of the ovine heart fatty acid-binding protein gene (FABP3)
Authors: Calvo J.H. , Vaiman D. , Saïdi-Mehtar N. , Beattie A. , Jurado J.J. , Serrano M.
Published: June 2003

The purpose of this study was to locate and detect genetic variation in the sheep FABP3 gene, a candidate gene for milk and meat quality traits in sheep. We have obtained an almost complete sequence (4,689 bp, excluding a part of intron 1) of the sheep FABP3 gene using PCR-based comparative genome walking. Sheep FABP3 has been located to chromosome 2 by sheep sequence-specific PCR on DNA from a sheep/rodent cell hybrid panel, and confirmed by linkage mapping using the International Mapping Flock. Direct sequencing of PCR products amplified from different DNA samples of Manchega breed sheep over the complete sheep FABP3 gene revealed 13 SNPs, one CTC insertion/deletion and a variable polyA tract. This poly A tract was found in association with a SINE/artiodactyls repeat. In addition, two SNPs were screened in different sheep breeds.
Cloning and expression analysis of Sall4, the murine homologue of the gene mutated in Okihiro syndrome
Authors: Kohlhase J. , Heinrich M. , Liebers M. , Fröhlich Archangelo L. , Reardon W. , Kispert A.
Published: June 2003

SALL4 is one out of four human homologues of the Drosophila region-specific homeotic gene spalt(sal). Heterozygous mutations of SALL4 on chromosome 20q13.13→ q13.2 cause the autosomal dominant Okihiro syndrome which is characterized by radial limb defects, Duane anomaly and hearing loss. We have partially cloned the murine homologue of this gene, named Sall4, and completed the coding sequence by comparison to available EST and genomic sequences in the GenBank database. This comparison also revealed the chromosomal location of Sall4 on mouse chromosome 2H3 and suggested that a predicted testis expressed gene Tex20 at the very same locus is most likely not a gene on its own but part of the Sall4 3′ UTR. We analyzed the expression of Sall4 during early embryogenesis by whole mount in situ hybridization and in the adult mouse by Northern blotting. In adult tissues, Sall4 expression is only found in testis and ovary. During embryonic development, Sall4 expression is widespread in early embryos and becomes gradually confined to the head region and the primitive streak. Prominent expression in the developing midbrain, branchial arches and the limbs suggests an important function of Sall4 during development of these structures as expected from the observation in Okihiro syndrome patients.
Mapping the distribution of the interstitial telomeric (TTAGGG)n sequences in eight species of Brazilian marsupials (Didelphidae) by FISH and the correlation with constitutive heterochromatin. Do ITS represent evidence for fusion events in American marsupials?
Authors: Pagnozzi J.M. , Ditchfield A.D. , Yonenaga-Yassuda Y.
Published: June 2003

The C-band pattern and the distribution of the (TTAGGG)n sequence after fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), were studied in eight species of Didelphidae marsupials: four species with 2n = 14 (Marmosops parvidens, Marmosops incanus, Marmosa murina and Metachirus nudicaudatus), two species with 2n = 18 (Monodelphis domestica and M. americana), and two with 2n = 22 (Didelphis marsupialis and Lutreolina crassicaudata). The hybridization signals were observed at both termini telomeres of all chromosomes. In addition, interstitial sequences were detected in the pericentromeric region of all chromosomes of Marmosops parvidens, in five chromosome pairs of M. incanus, and in the first pair of Monodelphis domestica. These sites always occur in the region of constitutive heterochromatin, even though C-band positive regions do not always present interstitial telomeric sequences (ITS). We suggest that the interstitial (TTAGGG)n sequences are associated with satellite DNA and do not necessarily arise through chromosomal rearrangements.
Chromosomal studies on ten species of notothenioid fishes (Notothenioidei: Bathydraconidae, Channichthyidae, Nototheniidae)
Authors: Caputo V. , Nisi Cerioni P. , Splendiani A. , Capriglione T. , Odierna G. , Olmo E.
Published: June 2003

The results of a cytogenetic study conducted with banding and in situ hybridization techniques using ribosomal and telomeric probes on various species belonging to three families (Bathydraconidae, Channichthyidae and Nototheniidae) of the perciform suborder, Notothenioidei, are reported. The heterochromatin distribution and composition, nucleolar organiser and localisation of telomeric sequences seem to indicate that both in karyologically conservative families such as channichthyids and in families exhibiting greater karyological variability, certain DNA fractions like ribosomal genes and centromeric and telomeric DNAs are prone to some variability. This could play an important role in favouring or hampering chromosome rearrangements.
Sex chromosomes in the spiny eel (Mastacembelus aculeatus) revealed by mitotic and meiotic analysis
Authors: Liu J.D. , Yi M.S. , Zhao G. , Zhou F. , Wang D.Q. , Yu Q.X.
Published: June 2003

Lower vertebrates like fish exhibit tremendous diversity in sex determination. There are wide interplays between environment-dependent sex differentiation ranging from natural hermaphroditism to sex reversal and genetic sex determination. Diverse systems of male and female heterogamety coexist in fish and sex chromosomes are rarely distinguishable in morphology. Here we show that the spiny eel (Mastacembelus aculeatus) of the Perciformes, has evolved highly heteromorphic X and Y chromosomes. The metacentric X and Y chromosomes are the largest among 24 homologous pairs, differ from each other in size and morphology, and become distinct after C-banding because of conspicuous heterochromatin blocks which exhibit alternate distribution around the centromeric region. Chromosome painting using probes from the microdissected X chromosome revealed sequence homology between X and Y. During the pachytene stage of meiosis the X and Y form a bivalent. However, their synapsis is delayed which is particularly evident in one terminus. Therefore, the X and Y have resulted from a pericentric inversion in the Y. We conclude that M. aculeatus represents an example of a highly advanced stage of sex chromosome evolution in fish.
Genomic structure, conservation and FISH mapping of the Rattus norvegicus Adprt gene
Authors: Beneke S. , Kappler R. , Bürkle A. , Scherthan H.
Published: June 2003

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1) lies at the basis of a DNA-interacting protein family that maintains genome integrity. Here we describe the genomic organisation of rat PARP-1 gene (Adprt), refine its assignment to rat chromosome (RNO) 13q25→q26 by FISH and compare its genomic organisation between rat, mouse and human. It appears that in human, mouse and rat Adprt consists of 23 similar-sized exons with well-conserved intron and exon borders. Adprt orthologs map to homologous chromosome regions at the termini of the q-arms of human and mouse chromosomes 1 and rat 13, with gene order being conserved between the rodents. Kimura protein distance comparison with human PARP-1 as reference revealed the bovine protein to be the least conserved with 10.3 substitutions per 100 amino acids, followed by rat (8.6) and mouse (8.4).
Satellite DNA in the elm leaf beetle, Xanthogaleruca luteola (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae): characterization, interpopulation analysis, and chromosome location
Authors: Lorite P. , Carrillo J.A. , Garnería I. , Petitpierre E. , Palomeque T.
Published: June 2003

In this paper the satellite DNA (stDNA) of the phytophagous beetle Xanthogaleruca luteola is analyzed. It is organized in a tandem repeat of 149-bp-long monomers, has an AT content of 59%, and presents inverted internal repeats. Restriction analysis of the total DNA with methylation-sensitive enzymes suggests that this repetitive DNA is not methylated. Analysis of the electrophoretic mobility of stDNA on non-denaturing polyacrylamide gels showed that this stDNA is not curved. In situ hybridization with a biotinylated probe of the stDNA revealed a pericentromeric localization of these sequences in the majority of the meiotic bivalents. We have studied the stDNA of X. luteola from two populations with very distinct geographical origins. The sequence and phylogenetic analysis of monomers from these two populations showed that the repetitive element is conserved within the species. Putative gene conversion tracts are identified when the different monomers of the same population are compared. These results could indicate the existence of processes of homogenization that would extend these mutations to all the satellite repeats.
Case-Control Family Study of Lesser Variant Traits in Autism
Authors: Wilcox James A. , Tsuang Ming T. , Schnurr Thomas , Baida-Fragoso Nicolas
Published: June 2003

Family data were obtained from the relatives of 30 autistic patients, 30 patients with other pervasive developmental disorder and 30 healthy controls. Detailed interviewing was conducted to document any evidence of psychiatric illness of the family members of these probands. Anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive illness stood out as being closely associated with having autistic individuals in the family. The findings suggest that autism is a spectrum disorder that may be associated with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive illness. This type of association is consistent with a polygenic threshold effect for this group of conditions.
Association Analysis of the Genetic Variants of the N-Methyl D-Aspartate Receptor Subunit 2b (NR2b) and Treatment-Refractory Schizophrenia in the Chinese
Authors: Chiu Hsien-Jane , Wang Ying-Chieh , Liou Ying-Jay , Lai I-Ching , Chen Jen-Yeu
Published: June 2003

Several pieces of evidence showed that N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA)-receptor-mediated decreases in function may be a causative factor for schizophrenia. The NMDA receptors are composed of a common glutamate receptor, an ionotropic NMDA 1 (GRIN1) subunit and one of four GRIN2 subunits (GRIN2A–GRIN2D), combined in an undetermined ratio to make up the receptor complex. In this study, we tested the hypothesis of whether the GRIN2B 366C/G and 2664C/T genetic polymorphisms are related to Chinese treatment-refractory schizophrenic patients. 193 treatment-refractory schizophrenic patients and 176 normal subjects were recruited for this study. The results demonstrated that the genotype distribution was similar between schizophrenic patients and control subjects in 366C/G (p = 0.88) and 2664C/T (p = 0.336), but we found a higher mean clozapine dosage in 2664C/C genotype patients. These results show that GRIN2B genetic variations were not a major risk factor for treatment-refractory schizophrenic patients, but may influence the effect of clozapine during treatment.
Polymorphism of the Serotonin Transporter Gene and Symptomatic Dimensions of Schizophrenia in the Korean Population
Authors: Pae Chi-Un , Kim Jung-Jin , Lee Soo-Jung , Lee Chang-Uk , Lee Chul , Paik In-Ho , Park Ho-Ran , Yang Soo , Serretti Alessandro
Published: June 2003

This study was aimed to test the association between schizophrenia and a functional serotonin polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) in the upstream regulatory region. Genomic DNA analysis with polymerase chain reaction was used for 5-HTTLPR genotyping. One hundred and eleven patients with schizophrenia and 208 healthy individuals participated in this study. There were significant differences in the negative score and general psychopathology score of the positive and negative syndrome scale according to 5-HTTLPR genotypes and alleles, although no significant differences in allele or genotype frequencies between the two groups were found. These results suggest that 5-HTTLPR may contribute to the susceptibility to the symptomatology of schizophrenia but not to the development of the disorder itself, at least in the Korean population.
Abnormal Nocturnal Blood Pressure Fall in Senile-Onset Depression with Subcortical Silent Cerebral Infarction
Authors: Hamada T. , Murata T. , Omori M. , Takahashi T. , Kosaka H. , Wada Y. , Yoshida H.
Published: June 2003

Recent studies have shown that the complication rate of silent cerebral infarction (SCI) in patients with geriatric depression increases with the age at the onset of depression. This study investigated the cardiovascular factors involved in the development of SCI in geriatric depression. Thirty-six patients with geriatric depression were classified according to the age at onset into 16 who developed depression at the age of <50 years (early-onset group) and 20 who developed depression at the age of ≧50 years (late-onset group). The incidence of SCI assessed by subcortical hyperintensity on MRI images, office blood pressure (BP), nocturnal systolic BP fall pattern examined by 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring, and the severity of carotid atherosclerosis examined by B-mode ultrasonography were compared between the two groups. Furthermore, the association between the presence or absence of SCI and the nocturnal systolic BP fall pattern or the severity of carotid atherosclerosis was evaluated. The SCI complication rate was higher in the late-onset group (55.0%) than in the early-onset group (18.7%). The office BP and mean 24-hour BP did not differ significantly between the two groups. Abnormal nocturnal systolic BP fall patterns were observed in 85.0% (nondipper type showing a fall of <10% in 60.0%, extreme-dipper type showing a fall of ≧20% in 25.0%) in the late-onset group, which was significantly higher than the incidence in the early-onset group (18.7%). No significant difference was observed in any parameter of carotid atherosclerosis between the two groups. In addition, the patients with SCI more frequently showed abnormal nocturnal systolic BP fall patterns than those without SCI. These results suggest that abnormal nocturnal BP fall patterns appear to be involved in the development of SCI in senile-onset depression.
Alcohol Withdrawal Changes Cardiovascular Responses to Propranolol Challenge
Authors: Kähkönen Seppo
Published: June 2003

The cardiovascular effects and plasma concentrations of a single dose of propranolol (80 mg) were studied non-invasively in alcohol-dependent subjects during alcohol withdrawal (AW) on day 1 and after resolution of withdrawal symptoms on day 10. At the onset of AW, propranolol caused a bradycardic effect which was significantly weakened on day 10. This might result from an increased bioavailability of propranolol on day 1 and from marked sympathetic activity. Propranolol also produced a negative inotropic effect, relatively weaker on day 1 than on day 10, being associated with increased β-receptor sensitivity towards the final phase of AW. These results suggest that peripheral and central β-adrenergic systems modulate the cardiovascular system in AW.
Sleep among Habitually Violent Offenders with Antisocial Personality Disorder
Authors: Lindberg Nina , Tani Pekka , Appelberg Björn , Stenberg Dag , Naukkarinen Hannu , Rimón Ranan , Porkka-Heiskanen Tarja , Virkkunen Matti
Published: June 2003

The aim of the present study was to characterize the subjective and objective sleep and sleep quality in habitually violent offenders with DSM-IV diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder using a sleep questionnaire, actigraphy, polysomnography and power spectral analysis. Subjects for the study were 19 drug-free males (mean age ± SEM 30.7 ± 2.58 years) recruited from a forensic psychiatric examination in a special ward of a university psychiatric hospital. The most striking finding was the high amount of slow-wave sleep, particularly the deepest S4 stage (17% as compared with 6% in healthy controls), in males with antisocial personality disorder. Moreover, in the spectral power analysis, both the delta and the theta power were significantly elevated. Whether this increase in persons with antisocial personality disorder reflects a specific brain pathology, or a delay in the normal development of sleep patterns in the course of ageing needs to be clarified with further experiments.
Cognitive Dysfunction in Cortical Cerebellar Atrophy Correlates with Impairment of the Inhibitory System
Authors: Tanaka Hideaki , Harada Masaki , Arai Mio , Hirata Koichi
Published: June 2003

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the profile of cognitive impairment in patients with cortical cerebellar atrophy (CCA) by measurement of event-related potentials (ERP) and neuropsychological tests. We studied 13 CCA patients and 13 age-, sex- and education-matched normal controls. For ERP recording, we used the conventional auditory oddball task as well as the continuous performance task, which evaluates the attentional performance and ability to control a motor response, i.e., to execute (‘Go’) or inhibit a motor reaction (‘No Go’). Brain electric activity was recorded using 20 scalp electrodes and computed into series of potential distribution maps. For components of ERP, reference-independent measures [global field power (GFP)] were determined, and low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (LORETA) was used to compute the three-dimensional intracerebral distribution of electric activity of the P3 component of Go and No Go responses. A comprehensive neuropsychological test battery was also assessed. GFP peak latency was prolonged and GFP peak was attenuated under the No Go condition in patients with CCA, although there were no differences in the auditory oddball task and in the Go condition between the two groups. LORETA showed low activation of frontal source in CCA patients in No Go P3 compared with the controls. However, neuropsychological tests revealed no differences between the two groups. Our results indicate that degeneration of the cerebellum contributes to frontal dysfunction, and suggest this dysfunction is characterized by an impairment of the inhibitory system.
Improvements in Treatment of Coronary Heart Disease and Cessation of Stroke Mortality Rate Decline
Authors: Peeters Anna , Bonneux Luc , Barendregt Jan J. , Mackenbach Johan P.
Published: June 2003

Background and Purpose—

Many countries observed rapidly declining stroke mortality rates during 1970–1990, followed by a slowing or a cessation of this decline. This slowing was seen for both sexes and all ages. Here we test the hypothesis that improvements in coronary heart disease (CHD) survival can explain this slowing through an increase in the number of CHD survivors at an increased risk for stroke.

Methods—

We created multistate life-table models based on the survival experience of 46 years of follow-up of the Framingham Heart Study cohort. Improvements in survival after CHD were modeled by decreasing mortality rates for those with CHD. We analyzed whether improved CHD survival could result in a >3% increase in annual stroke mortality rates, which would be enough to eliminate the previously observed decline.

Results—

CHD survival improvements led to an increase in the number of stroke deaths but also a concomitant increase in the total population size. Under no circumstances was there an annual increase in stroke mortality rates approaching 3% for both sexes and for younger and older age groups.

Conclusions—

The hypothesis that increases in the numbers of people with CHD, as a consequence of improvements in CHD survival, explain the observed slowing of the stroke mortality rate decline must be rejected. The true explanation is also likely to be a factor that changed markedly around 1990, but with more direct effects on stroke mortality.
(RE)DATING THE STORY OF SUSANNA: A PROPOSAL
Authors: Clanton Dan
Published: June 2003

Many studies have examined the story of Susanna from various perspectives, yet there is still no widespread consensus on the narrative's date of composition. This paper argues for a specific date for the story, viz., the early 1st century B.C.E. This date is consistent with textual evidence, as well the internal evidence of the story, such as the themes of witnesses and gender relations. In connection with the latter theme, this paper discusses the connection(s) between Susanna, Gk. Esther, and Judith, building on the work of Tal Ilan, who argues that all three of these works might have been used as propaganda for the reign of Queen Salome Alexandra (76-67 B.C.E.).
THESEN ZUR TEXTLICHEN VIELFALT IM TOBITBUCH
Authors: Wagner Christian , Nicklas Tobias
Published: June 2003

The article deals with some problems concerning the textual transmission of the book of Tobit. A few of its Greek manuscripts cannot surely be classified in the categories of GI, GII and GIII. The newly edited Qumran fragments should not be interpreted as witnesses of a single Urtext but point to a variety of different semitic Tobit 'texts'. The impossibility to reconstruct an Urtext of Tobit also raises methodological questions about the relations of textual, form, source, and redactional criticism. The authors plead for a synoptic approach which does justice to the value of this textual diversity.
APORIEN DER THEODIZEE. ZU EINEM SCHLÜSSELTHEMA FRÜHER RABBINISCHER MÄRTYRERERZÄHLUNGEN1
Authors: Avemarie Friedrich
Published: June 2003

Some of the early rabbinic texts that deal with the martyrs of tannaitic times display an intense concern for the problem of theodicy. A common feature of these texts is that despite their ostensible attempts at a coherent interpretation of the martyr's fate they refuse to abandon any of their basic convictions which are at stake – God's omnipotent governing of the world, the impartiality of the divine judgement and the martyr's innocence. When R. Hanina and his family hear their sentence, the narrative permits them to confess God's justice but not to raise the question of their guilt. R. Shim'on and R. Yishma'el discover some guilt with themselves, but the pointed pettiness of this guilt renders the explanation of their violent death provocatively incredible. When Yose ben Yo'ezer dies, his enemy's hints at the disproportion between his righteousness and his punishment are drowned in a vision of bliss in the world to come. By the conspicuous inconsistency of their answers, these texts demonstrate both the ultimate unsolvability and the inescapable urgency of their problem.
Biosynthetic origin and functional significance of murine platelet factor V
Authors: Yang Tony L. , Pipe Steven W. , Yang Angela , Ginsburg David
Published: June 2003

Factor V (FV), a central regulatory protein in hemostasis, is distributed into distinct plasma and platelet compartments. Although platelet FV is highly concentrated within the platelet α-granule, previous analysis of human bone marrow and liver transplant recipients has demonstrated that platelet FV in these individuals originates entirely from the uptake of plasma FV. In order to examine further the biosynthetic origins of the platelet and plasma FV pools, we performed bone marrow transplantations of Fv-null (Fv–/–) fetal liver cells (FLCs) into wild-type mice. Fractionation of whole blood from control mice demonstrated that approximately 14% of total blood FV activity is platelet-associated. Mice that received transplants of Fv-null FLCs displayed a high degree of engraftment and appeared grossly normal, with no evidence for spontaneous hemorrhage. Although total FV levels in Fv-null FLC recipients were only mildly decreased, the FV activity within the platelet compartment was reduced to less than 1% of that in normal mice. We conclude that the murine platelet FV compartment is derived exclusively from primary biosynthesis within cells of marrow origin, presumably megakaryocytes, and that an intact platelet FV pool is not required for protection from spontaneous hemorrhage or bleeding following minor trauma.
Material and presentation condition effects on sentence interpretation task performance: methodological examinations of the competition experiment
Authors: Sasaki Yoshinori
Published: June 2003

Ten native English learners of Japanese, ten intermediate native English learners of Japanese and ten native Japanese speakers of English each were requested to report what they thought was the subject or actor of a series of English NVN word strings, in which case marking and lexical-semantics cues were systematically manipulated. These NVN strings were aurally presented first alone, and subsequently the same strings were presented for the second time together with noncanonical NNV and VNN strings. Similarly, their counterpart Japanese NNV strings were first presented alone, and secondly with noncanonical VNN and NVN strings.

The results revealed that 1) a greater animacy effect (‘animacy noun as a subject’ bias) was detected when the sentence verb was see rather than eat(or each of their Japanese counterparts); 2) English accusative pronouns generally created greater case biases than nominative ones; and 3) native English speakers interpreting Japanese word strings responded differently under the two presentation conditions.
Monocyte activation markers during cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Fink R , Al-Obaidi M , Grewal S , Winter M , Pepper J
Published: June 2003

Extracorporeal support during cardiac surgery initiates an inflammatory response, causing damage to cardiac, pulmonary and renal tissue [Post Pump Syndrome (PPS)]. This is accompanied by a neutrophil leucocytosis and lymphopenia, but less is known about the role of monocytes and markers of monocyte activity.

We studied 19 patients undergoing cardiac surgery, obtaining blood samples from the aortic root (AR) and from the coronary sinus (< s) before the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), 1 min after release of the aortic crossclamp and 10 min after weaning from CPB (periods 1, 2 and 3). Leucocyte count, monocyte count and HLADR, CD15, CD11b and CD62L activation markers were measured.

In samples obtained from the coronary sinus (CS), HLA-DR, expressed as a percentage of the monocyte count, decreased between periods 1, 2 and 3 by 78%, 66% and 43%, respectively. A similar change was observed in samples from the AR. Conversely, CD62L increased in the CS samples (55%, 68% and 73%), but revealed a lesser increase in the AR samples (51%, 68% and 63%). The other markers showed little change throughout the procedure.

Reduced immunological competence could result from the decrease in HLA-DR counts. Increases in CD62L sensitizes monocytes to the tethering effects of endothelial integrins and might contribute to the atherosclerotic process.
Processing and transfusion of residual cardiopulmonary bypass volume: effects on haemostasis, complement activation, postoperative blood loss and transfusion volume
Authors: Daane C R , Golab H D , Meeder J HJ , Wijers M J , Bogers A JJC
Published: June 2003

The aim of this prospective randomized study was to compare the effects of the transfusion of unprocessed and cell saver-processed residual cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) volume on haemostasis, complement activation, postoperative blood loss and transfusion requirements after elective cardiac surgery. Blood samples were taken at eight points in time, perioperatively. Haematological data, including haemoglobin, haematocrit and platelet counts as well as coagulation parameters, including activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, thrombin time, fibrinogen and the fibrinolytic parameter D-dimers, were measured from each blood sample. For the assessment of complement activation, the total complement CH50 was analysed. In addition, postoperative blood loss and transfusion requirements were measured during the first 24 hours, postoperatively.

The results of the study showed impaired haemostasis after the transfusion of both unprocessed and processed CPB volume. No significant differences were found between the groups in the measured coagulation parameters. Nor was a significant difference found in the complement concentration. However, in patients trans-fused with unprocessed CPB volume, a significantly (p = 0.019) higher amount of blood loss was found, postoperatively. In the same group of patients, the number of units of allogeneic erythrocyte concentrate suspension transfused was also significantly (p = 0.023) higher during the first 24 hours, postoperatively, compared to the patients transfused with processed CPB blood. The number of units of fresh frozen plasma and platelet suspension transfused was not significantly different between the groups. In conclusion, processing CPB volume in combination with processing peroperative blood loss may result in reducing the volume of transfusion needed of allogeneic blood products.
Leucocyte depletion in cardiopulmonary bypass: a comparison of four strategies
Authors: Samankatiwat Piya , Samartzis Ioannis , Lertsithichai Panuwat , Stefanou Demetrios , Punjabi Prakash P , Taylor Kenneth M , Gourlay Terence
Published: June 2003

Leucocytes have been shown to play a fundamental role in the pathophysiology of inflammation. This prospective, randomized, controlled study was designed to identify the most advantageous leucocyte depletion technique in terms of reduction in systemic inflammatory response syndrome and myocardial ischaemia reperfusion injury associated with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Forty consecutive patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery were randomly allocated to one of four groups. The four groups consisted of a control group, a systemic leucocyte depletion (SLD) group, a cardioplegic leucocyte depletion (CLD) group and a total leucocyte depletion (TLD) group. There were 10 patients in each group. Lactoferrin (marker of neutrophil activation) and troponin-I (marker of myocardial ischaemia reperfusion injury) were measured at six time points: post induction, 5 min on CPB, 5 min before releasing the aortic crossclamp, 15 min after releasing the clamp and 1 and 24 hours after the discontinuation of CPB.

Plasma lactoferrin levels increased rapidly in every group after the commencement of CPB, subsequently reached a peak after releasing the aortic crossclamp and gradually declined after the discontinuation of CPB. The lowest lactoferrin concentration was observed in the TLD (range 2.15-141.9 ng/mL) and CLD groups (7.469-114.6 ng/mL). Regarding myocardial injury, plasma cardiac troponin-I levels did not differ significantly between groups; but troponin-I concentrations rose dramatically after releasing the aortic crossclamp in all groups. Nevertheless, the CLD group had the lowest troponin-I level (1.37-5.55 ng/mL).

In conclusion, it is believed that myocardial ischaemia is probably a major contributor to the inflammatory response. Although there is no clear statistical significance shown in this pilot study, the data tend to support the cardioplegic leucocyte depletion strategy as the optimal method for attenuating neutrophil activation and myocardial ischaemia reperfusion injury.
Cardiopulmonary bypass is not associated with increased jugular venous blood free radical activity
Authors: Ip-Yam P C , Browning P G , Behl S
Published: June 2003

We have measured jugular venous oxygen saturation (sjvO2) and lactate, arterial and jugular venous blood levels of lipid peroxidation products - malondialdehyde (MDA) and diene conjugates as an index of free radical activity in eight adults undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery. Measurements were carried out at six specific times: T1 - bypass (CPB), T2 - within 5 min before cardiopulmonary within the first minute after the commencement of CPB, T3 - during stable temperature (28°C) on CPB, T4 - during rewarming at 34°C, T5 min after CPB and T6 - at skin closure. There were no significant changes in arterial, jugular venous and arterio-jugular venous (a-jv) differences in diene conjugates and MDA. There was no correlation between sjvO2, lactate and a-jv differences in MDA and diene conjugates. These results are not indicative of ischaemia-reperfusion injury across the cerebral circulation during hypothermic CPB.
Cardiopulmonary support during electrophysiological procedures for ventricular tachycardias not haemodynamically tolerated
Authors: Zanobini M , Rossi Fabiana , Bertera Antonella , Sandano Stefania , Costa Cristina , Fabrizi Rita , Viola Simone , Annoni Andrea , Alamanni Francesco , Biglioli Paolo
Published: June 2003

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the efficacy of percutaneous cardiopulmonary support (CPS) for circulatory assistance during electrophysiological endocavitary procedures for ventricular tachycardia (VT) in high-risk patients.

From January to June 1999, eight patients with VT not haemodynamically tolerated, underwent an electrophysiological mapping and ablation while supported with percutaneous CPS in the cardiac surgery service of the University of Milan. The CPS system allowed for the maintenance of an arterial pressure of 60-70 mmHg during the tachycardia episodes. CPS was used for 10-20 min periods to restore haemodynamic stability.

With the haemodynamic support of CPS, it was possible to target and induce 21 VTs, with a mean cycle of 325 ms. The mean support time was 140 min (120 - 160 min). Stabilization of the arterial pressure at a mean value of 65 mmHg (55 - 85 mHg) was achieved over a mean period of 26 seconds. Oxygen saturation remained over 90% throughout the support for all patients, with no blood gas or electrolyte abnormalities. No CPB-related complications were observed.

In conclusion, percutaneous CPS guarantees effective haemodynamic support during mapping and ablation of VTs not haemodynamically tolerated, with no complications related to the extracorporeal circulation or the cannulation.
Lowest core body temperature and adverse outcomes associated with coronary artery bypass surgery
Authors: DeFoe Gordon R , Krumholz Charles F , DioDato Christian P , Ross Cathy S , Olmstead Elaine M , Groom Robert C , Pieroni John W , Forest Richard J , O’Connor Brian R , Bogosian Mary E , Warren Craig S , O’Connor Gerald T ,   For The Northern New England Cardiovascular Disease Study Group
Published: June 2003

To examine the effect of lowest core body temperature on adverse outcomes associated with coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, data were collected on 7134 isolated CABG procedures carried out in New England from 1997 to 2000. Excluded from the analysis were patients with pump times <60 and >120 min and those operated upon using continuous warm cardioplegia. Data for lowest core temperature were divided into quartiles for analysis (≤31.4°C, 31.5-33.1°C, 33.2-34.3°C, and ≥34.4°C).

Patients with lower core body temperature on cardio-pulmonary bypass (CPB) had higher in-hospital mortality rates. Crude mortality rates were 2.9% in the ≤31.4°C group, 2.1% in the 31.5 - 33.1°C group, 1.3% in the 33.2 - 34.3°C group and 1.2% in the ≥34.4°C group. The trend toward higher mortality as core temperature decreased was statistically significant (ptrend<0.001). Adjustment for differences in patient and disease characteristics did not significantly change the results and the test of trend remained significant ( p<0.001).

Rates of perioperative stroke were somewhat lower in the colder groups. Rates in the two colder groups were0.9% compared with 1.6% and 1.4% in the warmer groups (ptrend = 0.082). This remained a marginal but significant trend after adjustment for possible confounding factors (p=0.044).

Low core body temperatures on CPB are associated with higher rates of in-hospital mortality among isolated CABG patients. Rates of intra- or postoperative use of an intra-aortic balloon pump are also higher with lower core temperatures. We concluded that temperature management strategy during CABG surgery has an important effect on patient outcomes.
Epidemiology of cardiovascular disease in the last decade: treatment options and implications for perfusion in the 21st century
Authors: Sistino Joseph J
Published: June 2003

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) rates determine, to a large extent, the adult patient population that undergoes heart surgery. Many new treatment options have surfaced over the last decade which delay surgical intervention. The purpose of this study is to review the epidemiology of CVD in the USA over the past decade and project treatment patterns for the future. This information is important for the perfusion profession because it will influence the numbers of perfusionists required to staff open-heart centers in this country.

Discharge data from hospitals in the USA were reviewed to determine numbers and rates of patients treated for CVD referenced to age and specific types of CVD. Operative procedure codes were reviewed to determine the volume and rates of cardiac surgical procedures, including catheterization and angioplasty, in the USA between 1990 and 2000.

The results of this epidemiological review demonstrate that the surgical treatment rates for ischemic heart disease have not increased significantly over the past 10 years, except in the over-65 population. The large increase in the number of patients admitted for congestive heart failure (CHF) (39.4%) during this time period due to an aging population afford the perfusion profession an opportunity to become more involved in treatment options, such as cardiac assist devices.

Cardiac surgeons are facing many of the same challenges that we face as perfusionists due to interventional cardiology, and should focus more attention on improving treatment for the heart failure population in the next decade. The continuation of perfusion education programs at their current rate of output seems justified, based on population projections and the increased incidence of CVD in the elderly population.
A rise of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid is associated with acute lung injury after cardiopulmonary bypass in a swine model
Authors: Eichler Wolfgang , Bechtel J F Matthias , Schumacher Jan , Wermelt Johanna A , Klotz Karl-Friedrich , Bartels Claus
Published: June 2003

Postoperative acute lung injury (ALI) contributes to the morbidity and mortality following cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). To determine whether the presence of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) is associated with ALI after CPB, MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were compared with parameters indicating impaired gas exchange. In a prospective study, 17 minipigs were subjected to CPB for 60 min. Before and at five and 180 min after CPB, MMP-2 and MMP-9 were assayed in BALF and the arterial-alveolar gradient of oxygen tension (AaDO2), the pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) and the water content of lung tissue samples (Wt) were evaluated and compared with baseline values. MMP-2 and MMP-9 increased significantly 5 minutes (2.1- and 6.2-fold, respectively) and 180 minutes (3.4- and 14.3-fold, respectively) post-CPB. AaDO2 and Wt, but not PCWP, increased significantly 180 minutes after CPB and only AaDO2, but not PCWP or Wt, was significantly correlated with MMP-2 (r/0.66, p/0.006) and MMP-9 (r/0.62, p/0.01). In conclusion, high levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the pulmonary compartment are associated with ALI after CPB.
Hydrogen sulfide exposure without loss of consciousness: chronic effects in four cases
Authors: Hirsch Alan R
Published: June 2003

Adverse effects of acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide (H 2S) are well documented, but long-term effects of occupational exposure to low levels of the gas are not. To evaluate effects of such exposure we performed physical, neurologic, psychiatric, and chemosensory (smell and taste) examinations of four workers who were present but did not lose consciousness when the gas was accidentally released at a construction site. None of the four workers tested positive for functional problems, but all met diagnostic criteria for at least three, and up to eight, H 2S-induced neuropsychiatric clinical disorders and from zero to two subclinical disorders. All four had abnormal P300 evoked responses (electrical neurophysiologic tests of brain waves). Our data indicate that exposures to even relatively low concentrations of H2S are hazardous. A rigorous epidemiologic investigation of persons who work with H2S is warranted.
Cancer mortality in workers exposed to dieldrin and aldrin: an update
Authors: Swaen Gerard MH , de Jong Geert , Slangen Jos JM , van Amelsvoort Ludovic GPM
Published: June 2003

This study was conducted to investigate the possible long-term health effects, in particular carcinogenic effects, of occupational exposure to the organochlorine insecticides dieldrin and aldrin. We updated an earlier cohort mortality study of 570 employees involved in the production of these insecticides. All of the employees had worked in the production plants between 1 January 1954 and 1 January 1970 and were followed for cause-specific mortality until 1 January 2001. Based on dieldrin levels in blood samples taken during the exposure period, available for 343 workers, individual estimates of the total intake of dieldrin were estimated for all individual subjects in the cohort. The estimated total intake ranged from 11 to 7755 mg of dieldrin, with an average of 737 mg. One hundred and seventy-one workers had died before 1 January 2001, compared with an expected number of 226.6, giving a standardized mortality ratio (SM R) of 75.6 [95% confidence interval (CI): 64.6-87.7]. This deficit in total mortality was mainly attributable to a deficit in cardiovascular disease mortality, but cancer mortality was also lower than expected. The observed number of deaths from rectal cancer was significantly higher than expected (SM R 3/4-300.0; 95% CI: 109.5-649.3), but was most pronounced in the low-intake subgroup and appears to be unrelated to exposure to dieldrin and aldrin. This study reinforces the earlier findings that occupational exposure of workers to significant amounts of dieldrin and aldrin has not led to a higher cancer mortality than would be found in an unexposed population.
Phosphine toxicity: report of two cases and review of the literature
Authors: Brautbar Nachman , Howard Jonathan
Published: June 2003

Aluminum phosphide is a commonly used fumigant in the agricultural community. This article reviews the toxic effects of phosphine on the lungs and central nervous system in two workers and reviews the available scientific literature. Education for prevention of exposure and more frequent monitoring for exposure are recommended.