bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPACETIME NONCOMMUTATIVITY WITH A BIFERMIONIC PARAMETER
Authors: GITMAN D. M. , VASSILEVICH D. V.
Published: May 2008

We consider a Moyal plane and propose to make the noncommutativity parameter Θμν bifermionic, i.e. composed of two fermionic (Grassmann odd) parameters. The Moyal product then contains a finite number of derivatives, which avoid the difficulties of the standard approach. As an example, we construct a two-dimensional noncommutative field theory model based on the Moyal product with a bifermionic parameter and show that it has a locally conserved energy–momentum tensor. The model has no problem with the canonical quantization and appears to be renormalizable.
EXTRACTING FACES AND FACIAL FEATURES FROM COLOR IMAGES
Authors: SHIH FRANK Y. , CHENG SHOUXIAN , CHUANG CHAO-FA , WANG PATRICK S. P.
Published: May 2008

In this paper, we present image processing and pattern recognition techniques to extract human faces and facial features from color images. First, we segment a color image into skin and non-skin regions by a Gaussian skin-color model. Then, we apply mathematical morphology and region filling techniques for noise removal and hole filling. We determine whether a skin region is a face candidate by its size and shape. Principle component analysis (PCA) is used to verify face candidates. We create an ellipse model to locate eyes and mouths areas roughly, and apply the support vector machine (SVM) to classify them. Finally, we develop knowledge rules to verify eyes. Experimental results show that our algorithm achieves the accuracy rate of 96.7% in face detection and 90.0% in facial feature extraction.
USER IDENTIFICATION WITH USER'S STEPPING PATTERN OVER THE UBIFLOORII
Authors: YUN JAESEOK , ABOWD GREGORY D. , RYU JEHA , WOO WOONTACK
Published: May 2008

In this paper, we propose the UbiFloorII, a novel floor-based user identification system to recognize humans based on their stepping pattern, the arrays of the transitional footprints from heel-strike to toe-off. To obtain users' stepping pattern from their gait, we deployed photo interrupter sensors instead of switch sensors used in the UbiFloorI. We developed a software module to extract stepping pattern from users' gait. For user identification, we employed neural network trained with users' stepping samples. We achieved about 92% recognition accuracy using this floor-based approach. The UbiFloorII system may be used to automatically and transparently identify users in a home environment.
INVERSE BIOMETRICS FOR MOUSE DYNAMICS
Authors: NAZAR AKIF , TRAORÉ ISSA , AHMED AHMED AWAD E.
Published: May 2008

Various techniques have been proposed in different literature to analyze biometric samples collected from individuals. However, not a lot of attention has been paid to the inverse problem, which consists of synthesizing artificial biometric samples that can be used for testing existing biometric systems or protecting them against forgeries. In this paper, we present a framework for mouse dynamics biometrics synthesis. Mouse dynamics biometric is a behavioral biometric technology, which allows user recognition based on the actions received from the mouse input device while interacting with a graphical user interface. The proposed inverse biometric model learns from random raw samples collected from real users and then creates synthetic mouse actions for fake users. The generated mouse actions have unique behavioral properties separate from the real mouse actions. This is shown through various comparisons of behavioral metrics as well as a Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. We also show through a two-fold cross-validation test that by submitting sample synthetic data to an existing mouse biometrics analysis model we achieve comparable performance results as when the model is applied to real mouse data.
SVD-BASED SIGNATURE VERIFICATION TECHNIQUE USING DATA GLOVE
Authors: KAMEL NIDAL S. , SAYEED SHOHEL
Published: May 2008

Data glove is a new dimension in the field of virtual reality environments, initially designed to satisfy the stringent requirements of modern motion capture and animation professionals. In this paper, we try to shift the implementation of data glove from motion animation towards signature verification problem, making use of the offered multiple degrees of freedom for each finger and for the hand as well. The proposed technique is based on the Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) in finding r singular vectors sensing the maximal energy of glove data matrix A, called principal subspace, and thus account for most of the variation in the original data, so the effective dimensionality of the data can be reduced. Having identified data glove signature through its rth principal subspace, the authenticity can then be obtained by calculating the angles between the different subspaces. The SVD-signature verification technique is tested with large number of authentic and forged signatures, showing remarkable level of accuracy in finding the similarities between genuine samples as well as those differentiated between genuine-forgery trials.
FACIAL METAMORPHOSIS USING GEOMETRICAL METHODS FOR BIOMETRIC APPLICATIONS
Authors: LUO YUAN , GAVRILOVA MARINA L. , WANG PATRICK S. P.
Published: May 2008

Facial expression modeling has been a popular topic in biometrics for many years. One of the emerging recent trends is capturing subtle details such as wrinkles, creases and minor imperfections that are highly important for biometric modeling as well as matching. In this paper, we suggest a novel approach to the problem of expression modeling and morphing based on a geometry-based paradigm. In 2D image space, a distance-based morphing system is utilized to create a line drawing style facial animation from two input images representing frontal and profile views of the face. Aging wrinkles and expression lines are extracted and mapped back to the synthesized facial NPR (nonphotorealistic) sketches. In 3D object space, we present a metamorphosis system that combines the traditional free-form deformation (FFD) model with data interpolation techniques based on the proximity preserving Voronoi diagram. With feature points selected from two images of the target face, the proposed system generates the 3D target facial model by transforming a generic model. Experimental results demonstrate that morphing sequences generated by our systems are of convincing quality.
CHARMED (70, 1-) BARYON MULTIPLET
Authors: GERASYUTA S. M. , MATSKEVICH E. E.
Published: May 2008

The masses of negative parity (70, 1-) charmed nonstrange baryons are calculated in the relativistic quark model. The relativistic three-quark equations of the (70, 1-) charmed baryon multiplet are found in the framework of the dispersion relation technique. The approximate solutions of these equations using the method based on the extraction of leading singularities of the amplitude are obtained. The calculated mass values of the (70, 1-) charmed baryons are in good agreement with the experimental data.
NEUTRON-PROTON ISOVECTOR PAIRING EFFECT ON THE NUCLEAR MOMENT OF INERTIA
Authors: MOKHTARI D. , AMI I. , FELLAH M. , ALLAL N. H.
Published: May 2008

The neutron-proton (n-p) isovector pairing effect on the nuclear moment of inertia has been studied within the framework of the BCS approximation. An analytical expression of the moment of inertia, that explicitly depends upon the n-p pairing, has been established using the Inglis cranking model. The model was first tested numerically for nuclei such as N = Z and whose experimental values of the moment of inertia are known (i.e. such as 16 ≤ Z ≤ 40). It has been shown that the n-p pairing effect is non-negligible and clearly improves the theoretical predictions when compared to those of the pairing between like particles. Secondly, predictions have been established for even-even proton-rich rare-earth nuclei. It has been shown that the n-p pairing effect is non-negligible when N = Z and rapidly decreases with increasing values of (N-Z).
Bc SPECTROSCOPY IN THE SHIFTED l-EXPANSION TECHNIQUE
Authors: IKHDAIR SAMEER M. , SEVER RAMAZAN
Published: May 2008

In the framework of static and QCD-motivated model potentials for heavy quarkonium, we present a further comprehensive calculation of the mass spectrum of [Formula: see text] system and its ground state spin-dependent splittings in the context of the shifted l-expansion technique. We also predict the leptonic constant fBc of the lightest pseudoscalar Bc, and [Formula: see text] of the vector [Formula: see text] states taking into account the one-loop and two-loop QCD corrections. Furthermore, we use the scaling relation to predict the leptonic constant of the nS-states of the [Formula: see text] system. Our predicted results are generally in high agreement with some earlier numerical methods. The parameters of each potential are adjusted to obtain best agreement with the experimental spin-averaged data (SAD).
CHARACTERIZING PROJECT AND STRATEGIC APPROACHES TO REGIONAL CUMULATIVE EFFECTS ASSESSMENT IN CANADA
Authors: HARRIMAN JILL A. E. , NOBLE BRAM F.
Published: May 2008

Advancing cumulative effects assessments (CEA) to the regional scale, spatially and strategically, has been well argued but slow to evolve. Part of the problem is that "regional" CEA is a flexible concept, varying considerably in form and function from the project to the more strategic levels. This paper steps back from current discussions of assessment frameworks and methodologies to present a typology of regional approaches to CEA based on its multiple characteristics, functions, and expectations. Drawing upon current literature and interviews with international practitioners, we conceptualize regional CEA from two broad perspectives: EIA-driven approaches and SEA-driven approaches, illustrated with Canadian case examples. Each approach to CEA has its own merits that make it suitable to address particular types of cumulative problems at different tiers of assessment, and each of which can be expected to deliver different types of assessment results. The failure to fully recognize this "one concept–multiple form" characteristic is, in part, why the EA community has struggled in developing supportive methodological and institutional frameworks for regional CEA. We demonstrate that many of the disappointments with CEA are not the result of EIA-driven applications per se, but rather the result of mismatched CEA frameworks and expectations.
SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF TRADE AGREEMENTS: FROM PUBLIC DIALOGUE TO INTERNATIONAL GOVERNANCE
Authors: GEORGE CLIVE , KIRKPATRICK COLIN
Published: May 2008

In common with the governments of the United States and Canada the European Commission subjects its trade policy to a publicly conducted impact assessment process. The EC approach differs from the others in assessing economic and social impacts as well as environmental ones, in other countries as well as domestically. In principle this can contribute to stengthening international governance. In practice difficulties are encountered in integrating the studies into the decision-making process. This paper examines the experience that has been accumulated in the EC programmme, with particular reference to studies at the global level for World Trade Organisation negotiations and regionally for the Euro-Mediterranean Free Trade Area. These two examples offer pointers for how the impact assessment process might be adapted or extended to make a stronger contribution to international governance at both regional and global level.
Protocadherin 12 deficiency alters morphogenesis and transcriptional profile of the placenta
Authors: Rampon Christine , Bouillot Stéphanie , Climescu-Haulica Adriana , Prandini Marie-Hélène , Cand Francine , Vandenbrouck Yves , Huber Philippe
Published: May 2008

Protocadherins are transmembrane proteins exhibiting homophilic adhesive activities through their extracellular domain. Protocadherin 12 ( Pcdh12) is expressed in angiogenic endothelial cells, mesangial cells of kidney glomeruli, and glycogen cells of the mouse placenta. To get insight into the role of this protein in vivo, we analyzed PCDH12-deficient mice and investigated their placental phenotype. The mice were alive and fertile; however, placental and embryonic sizes were reduced compared with wild-type mice. We observed defects in placental layer segregation and a decreased vascularization of the labyrinth associated with a reduction in cell density in this layer. To understand the molecular events responsible for the phenotypic alterations observed in Pcdh12−/− placentas, we analyzed the expression profile of embryonic day 12.5 mutant placentas compared with wild-type placentas, using pangenomic chips: 2,289 genes exhibited statistically significant changes in expressed levels due to loss of PCDH12. Functional grouping of modified genes was obtained by GoMiner software. Gene clusters that contained most of the differentially expressed genes were those involved in tissue morphogenesis and development, angiogenesis, cell-matrix adhesion and migration, immune response, and chromatin remodeling. Our data show that loss of PCDH12 leads to morphological alterations of the placenta and to notable changes in its gene expression profile. Specific genes emerging from the microarray screen support the biological modifications observed in PCDH12-deficient placentas.
Analyzing Change: A Primer on Multilevel Models with Applications to Nephrology
Authors: Holden Jocelyn E. , Kelley Ken , Agarwal Rajiv
Published: May 2008

The analysis of change is central to the study of kidney research. In the past 25 years, newer and more sophisticated methods for the analysis of change have been developed; however, as of yet these newer methods are underutilized in the field of kidney research. Repeated measures ANOVA is the traditional model that is easy to understand and simpler to interpret, but it may not be valid in complex real-world situations. Problems with the assumption of sphericity, unit of analysis, lack of consideration for different types of change, and missing data, in the repeated measures ANOVA context are often encountered. Multilevel modeling, a newer and more sophisticated method for the analysis of change, overcomes these limitations and provides a better framework for understanding the true nature of change. The present article provides a primer on the use of multilevel modeling to study change. An example from a clinical study is detailed and the method for implementation in SAS is provided.
Attenuation of Long-Term Depression in Human Striatum after Anterior Capsulotomy
Authors: Allendes Felipe E. , Lozano Andres M. , Hutchison William D.
Published: May 2008

Aberrant synaptic plasticity in corticostriatal circuits may be an underlying mechanism of anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). We explored the effect of anterior capsulotomy in an OCD patient on long-term depression (LTD) in the striatum. Dual microelectrodes were used to record and stimulate in the region of the anterior limb of the internal capsule and ventral striatum. Single pulses were used to evoke field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) and high-frequency stimulation (HFS) was used to induce LTD before and after the surgical procedure on the initial side. Whereas striatal fEPSPs underwent LTD in response to HFS before capsulotomy, there was an attenuation of LTD in response to the same stimulus after the procedure concomitant with the patient’s report of a reduction in anxiety. Our observation of human striatal LTD attenuation concomitant with reduced anxiety following anterior capsulotomy suggests that reduction in synaptic plasticity is related to an acute improvement of OCD symptoms.
Effects of Bilateral Deep Brain Stimulation of the Subthalamic Nucleus on Olfactory Function in Parkinson’s Disease Patients
Authors: Guo Xiaodong , Gao Guodong , Wang Xuelian , Li Lihong , Li Weixin , Liang Qinchuan , Zhang Hua
Published: May 2008

Objective: The goal of the present study was to evaluate the effects of bilateral deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) on olfaction in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Methods: 15 patients suffering from sporadic PD-related dysosmia were implanted with bilateral electrodes aimed at the STN. One week before the surgery, odor detection threshold (DT) and identification threshold (IT) were evaluated in all patients using the ‘five odor olfactory detection arrays’ in both medication-off and medication-on conditions. 15 healthy age-matched controls also received the same olfactory evaluation. Patient evaluations were repeated at 6 and 12 months postoperatively in a medication-off/stimulator-on or medication-off/stimulator-off condition. Odor DT and IT scores were compared pre- and postoperatively, as well as between the medication-off/stimulator-on or -off conditions. Results: The motor symptoms of all 15 PD patients, including rigidity, tremor, bradykinesia, postural instability, and gait were significantly improved after stimulator implantation. The UPDRS motor (UPDRS III) scores decreased significantly in the medication-off/stimulator-on condition (p < 0.01). The odor DT and IT scores of PD patients were higher than those of healthy controls (p < 0.01). In the medication-off/stimulator-off condition, there was no significant difference in the odor DT and IT scores in PD patients pre- vs. postoperatively (p > 0.05). Notably, there were no significant alterations to DT scores in the stimulator-on and -off conditions at the 6- and 12-month follow-up (p > 0.05), whereas IT scores were significantly improved in the stimulation-on relative to the stimulation-off condition at the 6- and 12-month follow-up. Conclusions: STN DBS can significantly improve olfactory cognitive function in PD patients. The possible mechanisms include an improvement in striatal metabolism and neuronal activity in the orbitofrontal cortex mediated by STN DBS, as well as increased glucose metabolism in the striatum, midbrain, cingulate gyrus, and motor and higher-order somatosensory association cortices.
Relationship between Albuminuria, Low eGFR, and Carotid Atherosclerosis in Japanese Women
Authors: Ishizaka Yuko , Ishizaka Nobukazu , Tani Mizuki , Toda Akiko , Toda Ei-Ichi , Koike Kazuhiko , Yamakado Minoru
Published: May 2008

In this cross-sectional study, we have investigated whether chronic kidney disease components were associated with carotid plaque and carotid intima-media thickening in women. Between April 2005 and May 2006, 830 women underwent general health screening including carotid ultrasonography and urinary albumin excretion, and were enrolled in the study. Of these individuals examined, 83 (10%) had albuminuria, 203 (24%) had low estimated GFR (eGFR), and 24 (3%) had both albuminuria and low eGFR. Univariate analysis showed that albuminuria, but not low eGFR, was associated with carotid plaque, and that both albuminuria and low eGFR were positively associated with carotid intima-media thickening. Age-adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that albuminuria was positively associated with carotid plaque with an odds ratio of 2.48 (95% CI 1.49–4.11, p < 0.001). On the other hand, association between albuminuria and carotid intima-media thickening was not statistically significant after age adjustment. Positive association between albuminuria and carotid plaque was present when either hypertension or high fasting glucose was absent. In conclusion, in Japanese women who underwent general health screening, albuminuria, but not low eGFR, was positively associated with carotid plaque.
Cerebral Metabolic Dysfunction in Patients with Dementia with Lewy Bodies and Visual Hallucinations
Authors: Perneczky Robert , Drzezga Alexander , Boecker Henning , Förstl Hans , Kurz Alexander , Häussermann Peter
Published: May 2008

Aims: To identify the pattern of cerebral hypometabolism in patients with dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and visual hallucinations (VH). Methods: Fourteen patients with DLB and VH, 7 with DLB without VH and 16 healthy controls underwent clinical and 18F-FDG PET evaluations. The 2 patient groups did not significantly differ in their clinical characteristics, except in the occurrence of VH. A voxel-wise comparison of 18F-FDG PET scans was conducted between each of the 2 patient groups and the control group, and the patient groups among each other. Results: Compared with the control group, hypometabolic regions were more extensive and confluent in the patient group with VH than in the group without VH. The direct comparison between the 2 patient groups revealed a significant metabolic deficit in the group with VH at the right occipito-temporal junction and the right middle frontal gyrus. Conclusions: These results suggest that hypometabolism in visual association areas rather than the primary visual cortex is involved in VH in DLB.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Directed Therapy in Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Pande A.U. , Iyer R.V. , Rani A. , Maddipatla S. , Yang G.Y. , Nwogu C.E. , Black J.D. , Levea C.M. , Javle M.M.
Published: May 2008

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is one of the fastest growing malignancies in the US. The long-term survival of patients with this cancer remains poor; only 25% of patients undergoing surgical excision are alive after 5 years. Multimodal programs that incorporate radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgery for localized tumors may result in a modest survival advantage. However, significant strides in this disease can result from the inclusion of targeted therapies. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family represents one such target and is receiving increasing attention due to the advent of specific inhibitors. Studies conducted by us and others have shown that the overexpression of EGFR family signaling intermediates is common in Barrett’s esophagus and EAC. In the latter case, EGFR expression may have prognostic significance. EGFR inhibitors, including oral tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, result in a synergistic antitumor effect with chemotherapeutic agents or with radiotherapy. Therefore, several ongoing studies include EGFR-directed therapy either alone or in combination with chemoradiotherapy for this disease. Our study of gefitinib, oxaliplatin and radiotherapy suggested that gefitinib can be safely incorporated into an oxaliplatin-based chemoradiation program for esophageal cancer, although the clinical activity of this combination is modest. Herein, we review the current literature on this subject.
Molecular analysis of a case of meiotic recombination leading to cri-du-chat syndrome
Authors: Dobbs M. , Overhauser J. , Wasmuth J.J.
Published: May 2008

This paper describes a molecular investigation of a woman with an apparent large pericentric inversion of chromosome 5, inv(5)(pl4;q35), and one normal chromosome 5 and her child, who was born with cri-du-chat syndrome. The four chromosome 5 homologs from the proband and his mother were isolated in somatic cell hybrids, and their haplotypes were determined at nine loci polymorphic for restriction enzyme sites. The deleted chromosome in the proband was shown to carry alleles from both maternal homologs, verifying molecularly that a meiotic recombination event in the mother gave rise to her son’s deleted chromosome 5. The single crossover was presumably near the centromere.
Assignment of a gene coding for a human T-cell antigen with a molecular weight of 40,000 daltons to chromosome 17
Authors: Osada S. , Utsumi K.R. , Ueda R. , Akao Y. , Tsuge I. , Nishida K. , Okada J. , Matsuoka H. , Takahashi T.
Published: May 2008

Hybrid human-mouse T-cell clones reactive with Tp40 antibody, which detects cluster of differentiation (CD)7 antigen on human T lymphocytes, were established. Karyotype analysis showed that human chromosome 17 was essential for the expression of CD7 antigen. The presence of this chromosome was confirmed by enzyme analysis of galactokinase, which is coded by a gene on human chromosome 17.
Chromosomal localization of human lactotransferrin gene (LTF) by in situ hybridization
Authors: McCombs J.L. , Teng C.T. , Pentecost B.T. , Magnuson V.L. , Moore C.M. , McGilL J.R.
Published: May 2008

Lactotransferrin (LTF) is an important member of the transferrin family of proteins. These proteins play an essential role in the transport of iron in extracellular fluid (Aisen and Lis-towsky, 1980). Southern blot analysis of mouse-human somatic cell hybrids have localized the LTF gene to region q21→qter of human chromosome 3 (Teng et al., unpublished data). Using the same full-length mouse cDNA probe (2.2 kb), the LTF gene was mapped to human chromosomal bands 3q21→q23 by in situ hybridization. The sublocalization of the LTF gene to 3q21→q23 is in the region of human chromosome 3 where the gene loci of transferrin and transferrin receptor have been localized (Yang et al., 1984; van de Rijn et al., 1983).
Localization of human α1 acid glycoprotein genes to 9q31→q34.1
Authors: Webb G.C. , Earle M.E. , Merritt C. , Board P.G.
Published: May 2008

There is evidence for more than one α1 acid glycoprotein (α1AGP) gene, and they all appear to be in close proximity. In situ hybridization of the cloned human cDNA pα1AGP-2 to human chromosomes indicates that the α1AGP genes are located between bands q31 and q34.1 on chromosome 9. This finding is in agreement with the previous assignment of the locus for αAGP to a linkage group with ABO and AK on chromosome 9.
Homoeologic aberrations in human and chimpanzee Y chromosomes: inverted and satellited Y chromosomes
Authors: Weber B. , Walz L. , Schmid M. , Schempp W.
Published: May 2008

An inverted and a satellited Y chromosome detected in peripheral blood lymphocytes of a chimpanzee and a pygmy chimpanzee, respectively, were characterized cytogenetically by various banding techniques. A detailed comparison with an inverted and a satellited Y chromosome in man suggested that the corresponding aberrations were homoeologic.
An analysis of structural aberrations in human sperm chromosomes
Authors: Brandriff B.F. , Gordon L.A. , Moore, II D. , Carrano A.V.
Published: May 2008

We have analyzed structural aberrations in 5,000 sperm chromosome complements obtained from 20 men over a 5-yr period by fusion of human sperm with hamster eggs. Detailed data are presented on 366 abnormal cells with 379 analyzable breakpoints. The frequency of cells with structural aberrations ranged from 1.9% to 14.5% among donors; this interindividual variability was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). In contrast, repeat samples from individual men showed no significant variation over time. The number of sperm chromosome sets processed per hamster egg had no effect on the frequency with which structural aberrations occurred, nor were sperm chromosome abnormalities altered by varying capacitation or culture conditions. The spectrum of structural aberrations observed in human sperm chromosomes and a chi-square analysis of breakpoints based on DNA content are presented. Although human sperm chromosome abnormalities were visualized with a cross-species system, we believe that they represent an inherent, biologically significant phenomenon.
An analysis of the chromomere map and chiasmata characteristics of human diplotene spermatocytes
Authors: Fang J.-S. , Jagiello G.M.
Published: May 2008

A complete chromomere map of early/mid diplotene human spermatocytes has been developed which permits identification of each bivalent. Bivalents 9, 16, 17, and 19 demonstrated unique cytogenetic characteristics at this meiotic stage. The mean chiasma frequency per spermatocyte was 45.33 ± 4.52 (ranging from 32 to 58) with 28% of bivalents having one chiasma, 38% having two, and 27% having three. The remaining 7% had four or more chiasmata. Fifty-eight percent of chiasmata were located distally, 31% centrally, and 11% proximally. Univalents were rare. The availability of human diplotene spermatocyte maps permits exploration of many basic questions of recombination with accuracy.
Effects of zero to four copies of chromosome 15 on mouse embryonic development
Authors: Beechey C.V. , Searle A.G.
Published: May 2008

Intercrosses of mice doubly heterozygous for Rb(6.15)lAld and Rb(4.15)4Rma (thus are characterized by monobrachial homology for chromosome 15) produced embryos with zero to four copies of chromosome 15 in their expected frequencies at the first cleavage division. By 3½ days’ gestation, nullisomy 15 embryos were missing. At 8½ to 9½ days, no monosomy 15 embryos were found, although trisomy 15 and tetrasomy 15 embryos were still present in their expected numbers. Tetrasomics were more severely affected than trisomics at this gestational age; the former were severely retarded “streak” embryos, while the latter had open neural tubes and were 2/3 the size of euploid embryos. The functional activity of chromosomes during the embryonic development of autosomal aneuploids is discussed in light of these findings.
Early replication bands in two scorpion fishes, Scorpaena porcus and S. notata (order Scorpaneiformes)
Authors: Giles V. , Thode G. , Alvarez M.C.
Published: May 2008

The use of the BrdU-FPG methodology in the scorpion fish (Scorpaena porcus) has allowed us to estimate the mean cell cycle duration in kidney cells in vivo as being approximately 32.5 h. On the basis of this datum, replication protocols from 30 to 10 h of BrdU incorporation were employed revealing a precise order in the replication of the chromosomes. Treatments of 18–20 h proved to be the most useful in getting optimum replication bands and were used to elaborate the RBG-banding pattern karyotypes of S. porcus and S. notata. Their comparison confirms the high karyotypic distance between these morphologically similar species.
Chromosome localization of the human oncogene INTl to 12ql3 by in situ hybridization
Authors: Arheden K. , Mandahl N. , Strömbeck B. , Isaksson M. , Mitelman F.
Published: May 2008

The human oncogene INTl has been mapped to chromosome band 12q13 by in situ hybridization. The precise localization of this gene is of particular interest, since the region 12q1→q14 has been reported to be involved in chromosomal rearrangements in lipomas, myxoid liposarcomas, pleomorphic adenomas, and myomas. The involvement of this region in both benign and malignant tumors suggests a common pathogenetic pathway in which changes affecting INTl may be an important step.
Chromosome sublocalization of a cDNA for human DNA polymerase-β to 8p11→p12
Authors: Cannizzaro L.A. , Bollum F.J. , Huebner K. , Croce C.M. , Cheung L.C. , Xu X. , Hecht B.K. , Hecht F. , Chang L.M.S.
Published: May 2008

We have localized a cDNA fragment that codes for human DNA polymerase-β. Using somatic cell and in situ hybridization techniques, this cDNA was cloned by screening a human KM-3 cell cDNA library in λgt 11 for expression of fused β-galactosidase-human DNA polymerase-β proteins. We have mapped this human polymerase-β gene to the short arm of chromosome 8 in the subregion 8p11→p12.
DNA fingerprinting in domestic animals using four different minisatellite probes
Authors: Georges M. , Lequarré A.-S. , Castelli M. , Hanset R. , Vassart G.
Published: May 2008

Four probes known to allow DNA fingerprinting in the human (M13, Jeffreys’ core sequence, the human α globin hypervariable region [HVR], and a mouse probe related to the Drosophila Per gene) were checked for their ability to reveal “genetic bar codes” in cattle, horses, pigs, dogs, chickens, and a European cyprinid fish, the barbel (Barbus barbus L.). Individual-specific patterns were obtained in cattle using M13, Jeffreys’ core sequence, and the α globin HVR, in horses, dogs, and pigs using M13, Jeffreys’ core sequence, and the Per probe, and in chicken and fish using the four different probes. Although we observed a considerable heterogeneity in the extent of interindividual variation, depending on the particular probe-species combination, the fingerprints are polymorphic enough to be used efficiently in animal identification, paternity testing, and as a source of genetic markers for linkage analysis. These markers should substantially accelerate the mapping of genes affecting economically important traits.
An RFLP for glycophorin A (MN) is in linkage disequilibrium with MN and Ss
Authors: Murray J.C. , Buetow K.H. , Ferrell R.E. , Sieberg P.D. , Fukuda M.
Published: May 2008

Using a cDNA for glycophorin A (MN), we screened 10 unrelated Caucasians using 22 restriction enzymes for RFLPs. A common Stul RFLP was identified and shown to be in marked linkage disequilibrium with both the MN and Ss blood-group antigens in a larger group of unrelated Caucasians. This provides a DNA marker for a locus that has been of major importance in genetic and population studies. The demonstrated disequilibrium will prove useful in localizing the gene for glycophorin B and in studies of genetic and physical distances on human chromosomes.
Regional localization of the gene for thyroid peroxidase to human chromosome 2pter→p12
Authors: de Vijlder J.J.M. , Dinsart C. , Libert F. , van Kessel Geurts , Bikker H. , Bolhuis P.A. , Vassart G.
Published: May 2008

A 2.0-kb thyroid peroxidase cDNA of human origin was used as probe for Southern blot hybridization of genomic DNA from human somatic cells and human-rodent somatic cell hybrids. The results showed that the gene coding for human thyroid peroxidase is located on chromosome. 2. Further analysis of hybrids derived from Burkitt lymphoma cells carrying a (2;8)(p12;q24) translocation revealed that the gene maps to the region 2pter→p12.
Chromosome assignment of the owl monkey MOS and MYC gene loci
Authors: Ma N.S.F. , Erickson J.M.
Published: May 2008

Southern blot hybridizations of rodent × owl monkey hybrid DNAs with human cDNA probes allowed the mapping of the MOS and MYC gene loci to owl monkey chromosome 16 of karyotype VI (2n = 49 male/50 female) and to the homologous chromosome 15 of karyotype V (2n = 46). Synteny of MOS and MYC gene loci in both man and owl monkey suggests this chromosome segment’s conservation in primates, contrasting with its disruption in the mouse.
Morphological differentiation of sex chromosomes in three species of ratite birds
Authors: Ansari H.A. , Takagi N. , Sasaki M.
Published: May 2008

Chromosome banding studies allowed us to distinguish the sex chromosomes of the emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae), American rhea (Rhea americana), and Darwin’s rhea (Pterocnemia pennata). In each species, we identified the Z chromosome which is very similar to a carinate Z, and the slightly smaller W chromosome. Contrary to the uniformly heterochromatic carinate counterpart, the ratite W chromosome is euchromatic and retains remarkable banding homology to the Z chromosome.
Localization of proviral integration sites (Mlvi-7, Mlvi-2,and Pvt-1) and the α-globin pseudogene, Hba-3ps,on murine chromosome 15
Authors: Adolph S. , Strauss P.G. , Hameister H.
Published: May 2008

In situ hybridization was applied to map different proviral integration sites on murine chromosome 15. The Moloney murine leukemia virus integration site 1, Mlvi-1, was assigned to 15D2, Mlvi-2 to 15A2-B1 and the plasmacytoma variant translocation site 1, Pvt-1 to 15D2-3. The α-globin pseudogene, Hba-3ps, was mapped in close proximity to Mlvi-1 in 15D2.
A BrdU-enhanceable fragile site or viral modification site at 11q23.1 in lymphoblastoid cultures
Authors: Sutherland G.R. , Baker E. , Callen D.F.
Published: May 2008

Chromosomes prepared from EBV-transformed lymphoblastoid cell lines show an achromatic gap or fragile sitelike lesion at llq23.1. The low spontaneous expression of this lesion is greatly enhanced by BrdU and n-butyric acid. The lesion was expressed homozygously in all 16 cell lines examined. It is suggested that the lesion is a viral chromosome modification site.
Molecular studies of the parental origin and nature of human X isochromosomes
Authors: Harbison M. , Hassold T. , Kobryn C. , Jacobs P.A.
Published: May 2008

X-chromosome restriction fragment length polymorphisms were used to determine the parental origin of the isochromosome in nine individuals with an i(Xq) or idic(Xq). We were able to specify the parental source of eight of the nine isochromosomes, with six being maternal and two paternal in origin. In two cases, one i(Xq) and one idic(Xq), we used Xq markers to determine the level of heterozygosity in the isochromosome. Each was homozygous at all tested loci, suggesting that each originated from a single X chromosome and not from an exchange of material between two X’s.
Subchromosomal localization and order of GLA, PGK1, HPRT, and G6PD loci on the X chromosome of the American mink (Mustela vison)
Authors: Zhdanova N.S. , Pack S.D. , Mazurok N.A. , Nesterova T.B. , Gradov A.A. , Serov O.L.
Published: May 2008

Segregation of the X-linked mink markers α-galactosidase (GLA), phosphoglycerate kinase-1 (PGK1), hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT), and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) was analyzed in hybrids of gamma-irradiated mink fibroblasts and Chinese hamster cells and in hybrids of nonirradiated mink fibroblasts and mouse hepatoma cells. Based on this analysis, the order of the four genes is GLA-PGK1-HPRT-G6PD on the mink X chromosome. Cytogenetic analysis of five mink × Chinese hamster hybrid clones containing mink GLA, PGK1, and HPRT, but lacking G6PD, tentatively localized mink G6PD to Xq 15.22→qter and also confirmed the gene order as GLA-PGKl-HPRT-G6PD-qter. Comparison of this order with its counterpart in man and the mouse, as well as an analysis of the G-band patterns of their X chromosomes, demonstrated putative similarities between mink and man and differences in the mouse. These differences may be due to a different rate of X-chromosomal rearrangement in mammalian evolution.
Re-evaluation of HeLa, HeLa S3, and HEp-2 karyotypes
Authors: Chen T.R.
Published: May 2008

In contrast to earlier reports, this study on HeLa, HeLa S3, and HEp-2 revealed that karyotypes of each cell line are characterized by a consistent marker chromosome composition and a constant number of copies for both normal and marker chromosomes. Based on these chromosome fingerprints and an analysis of 50 metaphases, the modal karyotype of each cell line was defined. Each modal karyotype had the composite content of the previously reported karyotypes of the same cell line, and, generally, the former had the same or a higher number of copies per chromosome than the latter. This modal karyotype can be used as a standard to identify and further individualize both the cell line itself and a subline within that cell line. We have also found that many cells within each cell line have the same karyotype. Portions of numerical data are compiled in a chart format by which the extent of chromosome differences between cultures can readily be compared. Also discussed in brief are characteristic chromosome changes that may help distinguish clonally derived cell lines from lines derived by cross-contamination.
Meiotic analysis of two human reciprocal X-autosome translocations
Authors: Quack B. , Speed R.M. , Luciani J.M. , Noel B. , Guichaoua M. , Chandley A.C.
Published: May 2008

Two cases of human reciprocal X-autosome translocation, t(X;12) and t(X;2), are described in sterile males, along with meiotic findings. Each carrier had inherited the translocation from his mother. Both showed azoospermia and germ-cell maturation arrest at the primary spermatocyte level, with most cells being arrested at the pachytene stage. A few metaphase I (MI) divisions were found, with occasional metaphase II cells being seen in the t(X;2) carrier. MI air-dried preparations gave clear evidence of chain quadrivalent formation. In the t(X;2) heterozygote, the pairing characteristics of the quadrivalent at pachytene were also analyzed in electron microscopic spreads. Disturbance of pairing around the breakpoints characterized most quadrivalents, and there was evidence in about 20% of the cells that nonhomologous pairing had taken place between the translocated chromosomes and the normal chromosome 2. Comparisons are made with similar nonhomologous pairing configurations seen at pachytene in quadrivalents of male reciprocal X-autosome translocations of the mouse.
Localization of the human dopamine beta hydroxylase (DBH) gene to chromosome 9q34
Authors: Craig S.P. , Buckle V.J. , Lamouroux A. , Mallet J. , Craig I.W.
Published: May 2008

A human cDNA clone for dopamine beta hydroxylase (DBH) has been isolated from a phaeochromocytoma library. In situ hybridization of this probe to replication-banded chromosomes has localized the gene to chromosome 9q34. The structural gene for the enzyme is therefore close to the ABO blood group locus. This suggests that the previously described activity variation in levels of serum DBH may reflect alterations in either the structure or regulation of the DBH coding sequences. Both biochemical and genetic evidence therefore indicate independence of DBH from the pterin-dependent aromatic amino acid hydroxylases of the neurotransmitter pathways.
Frequency and distribution of mitomycin C-induced structural chromosome aberrations in lymphocytes from non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients
Authors: Johansson B. , Mertens F.
Published: May 2008

Lymphocytes from 15 untreated patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and 15 controls were exposed to 0.08 µg/ml mitomycin C, and the frequency and distribution of structural chromosome aberrations (chromatid and chromosome gaps, breaks, and exchanges) were analyzed in 100 mitoses per subject. The mean frequencies of aberrant cells, and gap, break, and gap + break events were 8.7, 0.9, 9.7, and 10.6 in the NHL group and 11.6, 1.1, 12.7, and 13.8 in the control group. None of the differences between the two groups was significant (P > 0.05). The distribution of breakpoints was nonrandom (P < 0.001) in both groups, with a particularly marked excess of breaks in 9ql 1. The other breakage-prone bands were 1q l1 and 1q21 in the NHL group and 1p11 1q11 2q31 and 16q11 in the control group. None of these hot spots coincided with any of the 60 bands known to be involved in primary chromosome abnormalities in NHL.
Simultaneous identification and banding of human chromosome material in somatic cell hybrids
Authors: Tucker J.D. , Christensen M.L. , Carrano AV.
Published: May 2008

We have developed a method that identifies human chromosomes in human × hamster somatic cell hybrids and simultaneously bands these same metaphases. Other methods generally require separate slides for banding and detection of human chromosome material, making the precise characterization of human material difficult. Our procedure involves denaturing metaphase chromosomes, followed by in situ hybridization of biotinylated whole human DNA. Fluoresceinated avidin is then bound to the biotinylated DNA, staining the human chromosomes yellow-green when excited with UV light. Chromosome banding is achieved by staining the slides with DAPI and actinomycin D. The fluorescein and DAPI excite maximally at 488 and 355 nm and emit at 520 and 450 nm, respectively. This permits identification of the human material at one excitation wavelength and visualization of the banding patterns at another wavelength. With this procedure, we have successfully identified both intact and broken human chromosomes, as well as human material involved in human × hamster translocations. The results indicate that this procedure is more accurate and considerably more rapid than previous methods and can be routinely employed for the cytogenetic analysis of human × rodent hybrids.
A system for deriving revertants of oncogene-transformed human cells
Authors: Talbot N. , Hankey P. , Jiang B. , Yanagihara K. , deVilliers J. , Bassin R.H. , Benade L.E.
Published: May 2008

We have previously shown that some transformed derivatives of the human osteosarcoma-derived cell line HOS are killed by treatment with 1 µM ouabain at pH 8.2, whereas their nontransformed counterparts are relatively unharmed by the same conditions. HOS cells transformed by v-Ki-ras and RAS, v-fms, or MET are susceptible to 1 µM ouabain while those transformed by v-fes are not. Here we describe the adaptation of this differentially cytotoxic effect as a method to enrich for cells which revert to a nontransformed phenotype. We have optimized parameters which increase the differential cytotoxicity, including pH and potassium concentration during and subsequent to ouabain treatment. The efficiency of this procedure was tested in mixed cell experiments where model populations were constructed consisting of HOS cells mixed with an excess of v-Ki-ras-transformed HOS cells. Two successive OAK treatments (ouabain/alkaline/K+-free) were sufficient to recover nontransformed cells free of ras-transformants as indicated by genetic markers and morphology. This HOS/ouabain system is currently being used to derive revertants of ras-transformed human cells and could facilitate the isolation of genes interacting in the pathways by which these cells are transformed.
Pairing of ZW gonosomes and the localized recombination nodule in two Z-autosome translocations in Gallus domesticus
Authors: Solari A.J. , Fechheimer N.S. , Bitgood J.J.
Published: May 2008

Electron microscopic observations of synaptonemal complexes of oocytes from chickens heterozygous for two Z-autosome translocations have been used to identify and study the pairing region of the Z and W chromosomes. The two translocations, MN t(Z;1) and t(OH 10), have breakpoints in opposite arms of the Z, and the arm having the breakpoint of MN t(Z;l) is marked by the terminal C + band. In both translocations the short arm of the W was specifically paired with the euchromatic short arm of the Z. In MN t(Z;l) only open quadrivalents (74%) and trivalents plus W univalents (26%) were observed, whereas t(OH 10) exhibited, in addition to the prevalent quadrivalents (62%), III + I (19%) and II + II (19%) configurations. The extent of W pairing was slightly decreased in MN t(Z;1) (68.4% of the W chromosomes paired) and considerably decreased in t(OH 10) (25.3% of the W chromosomes paired). Nonhomologous synapsis occurred regularly at the quadrivalent crosspoint in MN t(Z;1) and also in bivalents from t(OH 10). The recombination nodule normally located in the terminus of the pairing region in normal ZW pairs is present in both translocations without any alteration of its frequency or its strict terminal position. Based on these data and previous observations (Rahn and Solari, 1986), it is proposed that an obligatory recombination event occurs at a locus between 0.7 µm and 0.15 µm of the paired ZW telomeres, establishing a recombinational region and a pseudoautosomal region which determine partial sex-linkage and no sex-linkage, respectively. Most of the pairing region of the ZW pair is nonhomologously paired.
Regional mapping of unique DNA sequences from human chromosome 3 derived from a flow-sorted chromosome library
Authors: Atchison L.M. , Naylor S.L. , Freed J.J. , Comis R.L.
Published: May 2008

Eight single-copy DNA probes specific for human chromosome 3 were isolated by screening a human chromosome 3-derived genomic library. Southern blot analyses of DNAs isolated from a panel of somatic cell hybrids allowed us to regionally assign all probes to subregions on chromosome 3. Three clones were localized to the short arm of chromosome 3 (3p21→pter), two to the long arm (3q21→qter), and three to the 3q21→3p21 sub-region. Six of these DNA sequences map to regions overlapping a segment of chromosome 3 (3p14→p23) frequently deleted in small cell lung cancer cells. Restriction fragment length polymorphism analyses indicate that at least three of the eight single-copy probes studied show Msp1 or Bg/II polymorphisms. This library is a useful source of chromosome 3-specific probes.
Regional mapping of the creatine kinase B (CKBB) gene in rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and man using a rat cDNA probe
Authors: Mahoney C.E. , Picciano S.R. , Burton K.M. , Martin-DeLeon P.A.
Published: May 2008

Using a rat creatine kinase (brain form) cDNA clone for in situ hybridization, we have localized the gene in both the human and the rabbit complement. An analysis of the data shows that the locus in the human is at 14q32, confirming previous assignments based on somatic hybridization studies and Southern blot analysis. In the rabbit, significant accumulation on 20q13→qter with the predominant labeling at the end of the chromosome provides evidence for the localization of the gene at this site. The heterologous hybridizations of a rat probe to both human and rabbit metaphases underscore the highly conserved nature of the sequences for this enzyme.