bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective control of oozing from remnant tissue after partial nephrectomy, using fibrin tissue‐adhesive collagen fleece
Authors: Tsumura Hiroaki
Published: June 2003

A 76‐year‐old man had complained of vomiting and diarrhea. A low echoic mass shown by abdominal ultrasonography with a clear margin in the right kidney was revealed. Digital subtraction angiography revealed a mass containing granular vascularity that was 18 mm in diameter and was protruding from the dorsal aspect of the kidney. He was diagnosed as having an encapsulated right renal cell carcinoma (T1N0M0, stage I). Partial nephrectomy was conducted as his renal function was poor. This was indicated by a preoperative creatinine clearance of 44.4 mL/min. After the resection of the tumour, the haemorrhage from the renal parenchyma did not stop by suturing. To control the oozing from the resection surface by electrical coagulation, liquid fibrin glue and powdered fibrin glue was used, however it was not successful. Thus, we decided to use fibrin tissue‐adhesive collagen fleece (FTCF, TachoComb; Nycomed Pharma, Linz, Austria). The FTCF was placed on the resection surface and a pressure was applied to it for 5 min; oozing stopped completely. The use of FTCF contributed to the preservation renal function as there was no need to keep the seams as compared with suturing. The usefulness of FTCF in the partial nephrectomy is discussed in the present case report.
Laparoscopic urology development in Hong Kong
Authors: Li Shu‐Keung , Fung Berry Tat‐Chow
Published: June 2003

Objectives:  The application of laparoscopy in urology is increasing in Hong Kong. In the present paper the development of laparoscopic urology in Hong Kong is portrayed. The variety of laparoscopic urological operation that have been developed is defined, as well as interesting features associated with its development.

Methods:  A search on presentation/publications on laparoscopic urological topics by local authors were carried out on the electronic database supplemented by a manual hand search from January 1991 to November 2002.

Results:  A total of 68 presentations were identified covering a variety of urological topics including some of the most complex reconstructive procedures. The first report was in 1994. The three most presented topics were on paediatric urology, adrenalectomy and nephrectomy. Up to 45% of the reports were contributed by or collaborated with another specialty.

Conclusions:  Laparoscopic urology had a good foundation and able to keep pace with the world development. Cross specialty collaboration and interaction is an important feature in its development.
Dissecting plant secondary metabolism – constitutive chemical defences in cereals
Authors: Osbourn Anne E. , Qi Xiaoquan , Townsend Belinda , Qin Bo
Published: June 2003

Collectively plants synthesise a diverse array of secondary metabolites. Secondary metabolites are well known as agents that mediate pollination and seed dispersal. They may also act as chemical defenses that ward off pests and pathogens or suppress the growth of neighbouring plants. The ability to synthesise particular classes of secondary metabolite is commonly restricted to selected plant groups, and the evolution of different pathways in distinct plant lineages is likely to have been key for survival and for the generation of diversity at the organism level. An understanding of the evolution of secondary metabolism requires the characterisation of enzymes and genes for complete pathways in a broad range of plants in addition to the two model species, Arabidopsis thaliana and rice. Tracing the ancestry of the pathway components can then unravel the chain of events that led to the creation of individual pathways. This review summarises progress that has been made in the dissection of the pathways for constitutive chemical defences in cereals, namely saponins and benzoxazinoids.
Rust haustoria: nutrient uptake and beyond
Authors: Voegele Ralf T. , Mendgen Kurt
Published: June 2003

Haustoria are morphological features of an extremely successful class of plant parasites, the obligate biotrophs. The broad phylogenetic spectrum of organisms producing haustoria suggests that these structures have arisen many times in the course of evolution and represent specific adaptations of these organisms to the close interaction with their respective host plants. This close interaction and the fact that these structures cannot be produced in vitro have hampered an analysis of the roles of haustoria in biotrophy for many decades. Only recently has it become possible to analyse haustorial function at a molecular level. A picture is beginning to emerge indicating that haustoria do not only serve in nutrient uptake – a task postulated for these elements ever since their discovery. Moreover, they seem to perform enormous biosynthetic duties. They also seem to be engaged in the suppression of host defense responses and in redirecting or reprogramming the host's metabolic flow. This review intends to summarize current knowledge about the structure and function especially of rust haustoria.
Resistance to plant pathogens: possible roles for free polyamines and polyamine catabolism
Authors: Walters Dale
Published: June 2003

Although most work on polyamines in incompatible interactions between plants and pathogens has focussed on polyamines conjugated to phenolic compounds (hydroxycinnamic acid amides), changes in free polyamines and their catabolism have been shown to occur in such interactions. A common feature of these interactions is an increase in diamine oxidase (DAO) activity and, in some interactions, of polyamine oxidase (PAO). The activities of these two enzymes produces hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which may act in structural defense, as a signal molecule, or as an antimicrobial compound in host resistance. There are several possible roles for polyamines and polyamine catabolism in plant resistance to pathogen infection; H2O2 produced might trigger the hypersensitive response (HR), thought to be a form of programmed cell death (PCD), the polyamine spermine might act as an inducer of PR proteins, and as a trigger for caspase activity and hence HR. There is, however, a need for more precise information on the timing and location of changes in polyamine metabolism in the development of resistance. Only with this information can a case be made for the involvement of polyamines and polyamine catabolism in plant defense.
The Surgical Management of Chronic Cluster Headache
Authors: Lovely Thomas J. , Kotsiakis Xenofon , Jannetta Peter J.
Published: June 2003

Objective.—Chronic cluster headache occurs in less than 10% of cluster headache sufferers, but remains an intractable medical problem. Surgical treatments have also been limited in their effectiveness. The authors describe their experience with attempted surgical amelioration of chronic cluster headache.

Design.—Twenty‐eight patients, including two with bilateral cluster headache, underwent 39 operations for microvascular decompression of the trigeminal nerve, alone or in combination with section and/or microvascular decompression of the nervus intermedius. Follow‐up averaged 5.3 years.

Results.—Initial postoperative success described as 50% relief or greater was achieved in 22 (73.3%) of 30 first‐time procedures and greater than 90% relief in half (15 of 30) of these. Long‐term follow‐up saw this success rate (excellent or good) drop to 46.6%. Repeat procedures have little success, with 7 of 8 failing at long‐term follow‐up. Morbidity and neurological deficit from the operations was minimal.

Conclusions.—Chronic cluster headache remains a debilitating and poorly controlled syndrome. Although various surgical treatments have had limited success, microvascular decompression of the trigeminal nerve with section of the nervus intermedius compares very favorably to other destructive techniques without the accompanying neurologic deficits. It is, therefore, our recommendation as the first‐line operative treatment of chronic cluster headache.
Migraine Therapy: Development and Testing of a Patient Preference Questionnaire
Authors: Caro Graciela , Caro J. Jaime , O'Brien Judith A. , Anton Susan , Jackson Joseph
Published: June 2003

Objectives.—To develop and test a patient preference questionnaire in migraine.

Methods.—A user‐friendly, self‐administered questionnaire was developed to assess the relative importance of aspects of migraine therapy to patients. It was tested in a convenience sample of 66 migraineurs. The questionnaire has five sections: patient preference, migraine history, demographics, usual behavior during an attack, and migraine impact on cognition and functionality. It employs a special reverse‐ranking technique to quantify preferences.

Results.—Sixty‐six migraineurs participated: 86% were women, 53% had not consulted their doctor about migraine in the previous year; and only 51% took prescribed medication, the majority (52%) at the start of a migraine. “A medication that can be taken any time during a migraine attack” was ranked most important by 20% of the migraineurs, one that decreases pain from the unbearable level in 30 minutes by 17%, and one that relieves pain completely within 2 hours by 15%. Not being able to think or concentrate with severe symptoms was reported by 71%. Optional activities were impeded by migraine in 83% of subjects, but required activities in only 60%.

Conclusions.—The patient preference questionnaire is readily completed by subjects and reveals that the dimensions of relief preferred by patients can be addressed by a self‐report questionnaire.
Dihydroergotamine Nasal Spray in the Treatment of Acute Migraine
Authors: Treves Therese A. , Kuritzky Arieh , Hering Rachel , Korczyn Amos D.
Published: June 2003

Objective.—To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dihydroergotamine (DHE) nasal spray in patients suffering from common or classical migraine.

Methods.—In a double‐blind parallel‐group study, 52 outpatients with migraine were randomly allocated to DHE nasal spray or to placebo. Two puffs, one in each nostril, was taken as an initial dose (resulting in either 0.5 or 1 mg of DHE), followed by another puff (0.5 mg) after 30 and 60 minutes, if necessary, achieving a maximum dose of 2 mg for patients of the DHE 1‐mg group or of 1.5 mg for patients of the 0.5‐mg group. Four consecutive attacks were thus treated. The efficacy analysis was done for observed cases. The main outcome measure was reduction of the severity of the attacks.

Results.—No differences were observed in the migraine characteristics or the number of treatments of the patients from the different groups. Dihydroergotamine 1 mg tended to provide better relief than 0.5 mg, although the effect was not statistically significant. Patients taking DHE used less rescue medications, with a dose‐dependent effect. Side effects were reported by four patients receiving DHF but not placebo. The tolerability of the drug was assessed as good by 94% of the patients.

Conclusion.—These findings suggest that DHE nasal spray is well tolerated and has dose‐dependent efficacy in migraine.
Is Chronic Tension‐Type Headache a Vascular Headache? The Relation Between Chronic Tension‐Type Headache and Cranial Hemodynamics
Authors: Hannerz Jan , Jogestrand Tomas
Published: June 2003

Twenty‐seven patients with chronic tension‐type headache were studied as to end‐tidal Pco2, heart rate, mean blood pressure, diameter and blood flow of the common carotid arteries, cranial vascular resistance, and headache intensity at supine rest, after administration of nitroglycerin, and at head down tilt. The results were compared to the results of nitroglycerin and head down tilt provocations in age‐ and sex‐matched controls.

During supine rest, no change in chronic tension‐type headache occurred. Nitroglycerin and tilting induced significant increase of the headache intensity compared to baseline in patients with chronic tension‐type headache (P=0.01 and P<0.05, respectively) in contradistinction to controls who did not develop significant headache. Common carotid artery blood flow changes were similar during nitroglycerin provocations in the two groups, but greater (P<0.05) during head down tilt in patients than in controls.

Lumbar cerebrospinal fluid pressure was found to be greater than 20 but less than 26 cm H2O in 45% of the 22 patients studied with chronic tension‐type headache. The results indicate that the pain in chronic tension‐type headache is related to cranial hemodynamics, presumably to distention of intracranial veins.
Fast Oscillations and Epilepsy
Authors: Traub Roger D.
Published: June 2003

Very fast oscillations, 80 Hz and greater (designated here VFOs or “ripples”) have been observed in the hippocampus and neocortex, under a variety of conditions that are summarized briefly later. VFOs may be of relevance for normal brain function ( 1 – 4 ) and could also be of relevance in the initiation of focal epileptic seizures ( 5 , 6 ). To determine whether such relevance indeed exists, an understanding of the cellular mechanisms of VFOs is essential. For purposes of this commentary, I shall assume that all forms of VFOs are governed by a few common basic underlying principles. Future experimental data may show that assumption to be false, but for now, the assumption at least allows the formulation of straightforward hypotheses that could stimulate experiments.
Comparative Analysis of SET Domain Proteins in Maize and Arabidopsis Reveals Multiple Duplications Preceding the Divergence of Monocots and Dicots
Authors: Springer Nathan M. , Napoli Carolyn A. , Selinger David A. , Pandey Ritu , Cone Karen C. , Chandler Vicki L. , Kaeppler Heidi F. , Kaeppler Shawn M.
Published: June 2003

Histone proteins play a central role in chromatin packaging, and modification of histones is associated with chromatin accessibility. SET domain [Su(var)3-9, Enhancer-of-zeste, Trithorax] proteins are one class of proteins that have been implicated in regulating gene expression through histone methylation. The relationships of 22 SET domain proteins from maize (Zea mays) and 32 SET domain proteins from Arabidopsis were evaluated by phylogenetic analysis and domain organization. Our analysis reveals five classes of SET domain proteins in plants that can be further divided into 19 orthology groups. In some cases, such as the Enhancer of zeste-like and trithorax-like proteins, plants and animals contain homologous proteins with a similar organization of domains outside of the SET domain. However, a majority of plant SET domain proteins do not have an animal homolog with similar domain organization, suggesting that plants have unique mechanisms to establish and maintain chromatin states. Although the domains present in plant and animal SET domain proteins often differ, the domains found in the plant proteins have been generally implicated in protein-protein interactions, indicating that most SET domain proteins operate in complexes. Combined analysis of the maize and Arabidopsis SET domain proteins reveals that duplication of SET domain proteins in plants is extensive and has occurred via multiple mechanisms that preceded the divergence of monocots and dicots.
AraCyc: A Biochemical Pathway Database for Arabidopsis
Authors: Mueller Lukas A. , Zhang Peifen , Rhee Seung Y.
Published: June 2003

AraCyc is a database containing biochemical pathways of Arabidopsis, developed at The Arabidopsis Information Resource (http://www.arabidopsis.org). The aim of AraCyc is to represent Arabidopsis metabolism as completely as possible with a user-friendly Web-based interface. It presently features more than 170 pathways that include information on compounds, intermediates, cofactors, reactions, genes, proteins, and protein subcellular locations. The database uses Pathway Tools software, which allows the users to visualize a bird's eye view of all pathways in the database down to the individual chemical structures of the compounds. The database was built using Pathway Tools' Pathologic module with MetaCyc, a collection of pathways from more than 150 species, as a reference database. This initial build was manually refined and annotated. More than 20 plant-specific pathways, including carotenoid, brassinosteroid, and gibberellin biosyntheses have been added from the literature. A list of more than 40 plant pathways will be added in the coming months. The quality of the initial, automatic build of the database was compared with the manually improved version, and with EcoCyc, an Escherichia coli database using the same software system that has been manually annotated for many years. In addition, a Perl interface, PerlCyc, was developed that allows programmers to access Pathway Tools databases from the popular Perl language. AraCyc is available at the tools section of The Arabidopsis Information Resource Web site (http://www.arabidopsis.org/tools/aracyc).
Gene Expression of the NO3 – Transporter NRT1.1 and the Nitrate Reductase NIA1 Is Repressed in Arabidopsis Roots by NO2 –, the Product of NO3 – Reduction
Authors: Loqué Dominique , Tillard Pascal , Gojon Alain , Lepetit Marc
Published: June 2003

NRT1.1 and NIA1 genes, which encode a nitrate (NO3  –) transporter and the minor isoform of NO3  – reductase (NR), respectively, are overexpressed in roots of NR-deficient mutants of Arabidopsis grown on nutrient solution containing NO3  – and reduced N. The overexpression is found only in mutants with reduced NIA2 activity, and disruption of the NIA1 gene alone has no effect on NRT1.1 expression. Because the up-regulation of NRT1.1 and NIA1 is observed in N-sufficient NR mutant plants, it cannot be related to a release of the general feedback repression exerted by the N status of the plant. Our data do not support the hypothesis of overinduction of these genes by an increased concentration of NO3  – in tissues. Furthermore, although a control by external pH might contribute to the regulation of NRT1.1, changes in external pH due to lack of NR activity cannot alone explain the up-regulation of both genes. The stimulation of NRT1.1 and NIA1 in NR mutants in these conditions suggests that NR activity is able to repress directly the expression of both genes independently of the availability of reduced N metabolites in wild-type plants. Accordingly, nitrite (NO2  –) strongly represses NRT1.1 and NIA1 transcript accumulation in the roots. This effect is rapid, specific, and reversible. Furthermore, transport studies on plants exposed to NO2  – show that down-regulation of the NRT1.1 gene is associated with a decrease in NO3  – influx. These results indicate that feedback regulation of genes of NO3  – assimilation relies not only on the repression exerted by reduced N metabolites, such as NH4  + or amino acids, but may also involve the action of NO2  – as a regulatory signal.
Expression of a Mutant Form of Cellulose Synthase AtCesA7 Causes Dominant Negative Effect on Cellulose Biosynthesis
Authors: Zhong Ruiqin , Morrison W. Herbert , Freshour Glenn D. , Hahn Michael G. , Ye Zheng-Hua
Published: June 2003

Cellulose synthase catalytic subunits (CesAs) have been implicated in catalyzing the biosynthesis of cellulose, the major component of plant cell walls. Interactions between CesA subunits are thought to be required for normal cellulose synthesis, which suggests that incorporation of defective CesA subunits into cellulose synthase complex could potentially cause a dominant effect on cellulose synthesis. However, all CesA mutants so far reported have been shown to be recessive in terms of cellulose synthesis. In the course of studying the molecular mechanisms regulating secondary wall formation in fibers, we have found that a mutant allele of AtCesA7 gene in the fra5 (fragile fiber 5) mutant causes a semidominant phenotype in the reduction of fiber cell wall thickness and cellulose content. The fra5 missense mutation occurred in a conserved amino acid located in the second cytoplasmic domain of AtCesA7. Overexpression of the fra5 mutant cDNA in wild-type plants not only reduced secondary wall thickness and cellulose content but also decreased primary wall thickness and cell elongation. In contrast, overexpression of the fra6 mutant form of AtCesA8 did not cause any reduction in cell wall thickness and cellulose content. These results suggest that the fra5 mutant protein may interfere with the function of endogenous wild-type CesA proteins, thus resulting in a dominant negative effect on cellulose biosynthesis.
Transcriptome Profiling of Sulfur-Responsive Genes in Arabidopsis Reveals Global Effects of Sulfur Nutrition on Multiple Metabolic Pathways
Authors: Maruyama-Nakashita Akiko , Inoue Eri , Watanabe-Takahashi Akiko , Yamaya Tomoyuki , Takahashi Hideki
Published: June 2003

Sulfate is a macronutrient required for cell growth and development. Arabidopsis has two high-affinity sulfate transporters (SULTR1;1 and SULTR1;2) that represent the sulfate uptake activities at the root surface. Sulfur limitation (–S) response relevant to the function of SULTR1;2 was elucidated in this study. We have isolated a novel T-DNA insertion allele defective in the SULTR1;2 sulfate transporter. This mutant, sel1-10, is allelic with the sel1 mutants identified previously in a screen for increased tolerance to selenate, a toxic analog of sulfate (Shibagaki et al., 2002). The abundance of SULTR1;1 mRNA was significantly increased in the sel1-10 mutant; however, this compensatory up-regulation of SULTR1;1 was not sufficient to restore the growth. The sulfate content of the mutant was 10% to 20% of the wild type, suggesting that induction of SULTR1;1 is not fully complementing the function of SULTR1;2 and that SULTR1;2 serves as the major facilitator for the acquisition of sulfate in Arabidopsis roots. Transcriptome analysis of approximately 8,000 Arabidopsis genes in the sel1-10 mutant suggested that dysfunction of the SULTR1;2 transporter can mimic general –S symptoms. Hierarchal clustering of sulfur responsive genes in the wild type and mutant indicated that sulfate uptake, reductive sulfur assimilation, and turnover of secondary sulfur metabolites are activated under –S. The profiles of –S-responsive genes further suggested induction of genes that may alleviate oxidative damage and generation of reactive oxygen species caused by shortage of glutathione.
Peroxisomal Ascorbate Peroxidase Resides within a Subdomain of Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum in Wild-Type Arabidopsis Cells
Authors: Lisenbee Cayle S. , Heinze Michael , Trelease Richard N.
Published: June 2003

Previously we reported (R.T. Mullen, C.S. Lisenbee, J.A. Miernyk, R.N. Trelease [1999] Plant Cell 11: 2167–2185) that overexpressed ascorbate peroxidase (APX), a peroxisomal membrane protein, sorted indirectly to Bright Yellow-2 cell peroxisomes via a subdomain of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER; peroxisomal endoplasmic reticulum [pER]). More recently, a pER-like compartment also was identified in pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) and transformed Arabidopsis cells (K. Nito, K. Yamaguchi, M. Kondo, M. Hayashi, M. Nishimura [2001] Plant Cell Physiol 42: 20–27). Here, we characterize more extensively the localization of endogenous Arabidopsis peroxisomal APX (AtAPX) in cultured wild-type Arabidopsis cells (Arabidopsis var. Landsberg erecta). AtAPX was detected in peroxisomes, but not in an ER subcompartment, using immunofluorescence microscopy. However, AtAPX was detected readily with immunoblots in both peroxisomal and ER fractions recovered from sucrose (Suc) density gradients. Most AtAPX in microsomes (200,000g, 1 h pellet) applied to gradients exhibited a Mg2  +-induced shift from a distribution throughout gradients (approximately 18%–40% [w/w] Suc) to ≥42% (w/w) Suc regions of gradients, including pellets, indicative of localization in rough ER vesicles. Immunogold electron microscopy of the latter fractions verified these findings. Further analyses of peroxisomal and rough ER vesicle fractions revealed that AtAPX in both fractions was similarly associated with and located mostly on the cytosolic face of the membranes. Thus, at the steady state, endogenous peroxisomal AtAPX resides at different levels in rough ER and peroxisomes. Collectively, these findings show that rather than being a transiently induced sorting compartment formed in response to overexpressed peroxisomal APX, portions of rough ER (pER) in wild-type cells serve as a constitutive sorting compartment likely involved in posttranslational routing of constitutively synthesized peroxisomal APX.
Identification of ArabidopsisratMutants
Authors: Zhu Yanmin , Nam Jaesung , Humara Jaime M. , Mysore Kirankumar S. , Lee Lan-Ying , Cao Hongbin , Valentine Lisa , Li Jingling , Kaiser Anthony D. , Kopecky Andrea L. , Hwang Hau-Hsuan , Bhattacharjee Saikat , Rao Praveen K. , Tzfira Tzvi , Rajagopal Jyothi , Yi HoChul , Veena  , Yadav Badam S. , Crane Yan M. , Lin Kui , Larcher Yves , Gelvin Matthew J.K. , Knue Marnie , Ramos Cynthia , Zhao Xiaowen , Davis Susan J. , Kim Sang-Ic , Ranjith-Kumar C.T. , Choi Yoo-Jin , Hallan Vipin K. , Chattopadhyay Sudip , Sui Xiangzhen , Ziemienowicz Alicja , Matthysse Ann G. , Citovsky Vitaly , Hohn Barbara , Gelvin Stanton B.
Published: June 2003

Limited knowledge currently exists regarding the roles of plant genes and proteins in the Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation process. To understand the host contribution to transformation, we carried out root-based transformation assays to identify Arabidopsis mutants that are resistant to Agrobacterium transformation (rat mutants). To date, we have identified 126 rat mutants by screening libraries of T-DNA insertion mutants and by using various “reverse genetic” approaches. These mutants disrupt expression of genes of numerous categories, including chromatin structural and remodeling genes, and genes encoding proteins implicated in nuclear targeting, cell wall structure and metabolism, cytoskeleton structure and function, and signal transduction. Here, we present an update on the identification and characterization of these rat mutants.
Strategies for Development of Functionally Equivalent Promoters with Minimum Sequence Homology for Transgene Expression in Plants: cis-Elements in a Novel DNA Context versus Domain Swapping
Authors: Bhullar Simran , Chakravarthy Suma , Advani Sonia , Datta Sudipta , Pental Deepak , Burma Pradeep Kumar
Published: June 2003

The cauliflower mosaic virus 35S (35S) promoter has been extensively used for the constitutive expression of transgenes in dicotyledonous plants. The repetitive use of the same promoter is known to induce transgene inactivation due to promoter homology. As a way to circumvent this problem, we tested two different strategies for the development of synthetic promoters that are functionally equivalent but have a minimum sequence homology. Such promoters can be generated by (a) introducing known cis-elements in a novel or synthetic stretch of DNA or (b) “domain swapping,” wherein domains of one promoter can be replaced with functionally equivalent domains from other heterologous promoters. We evaluated the two strategies for promoter modifications using domain A (consisting of minimal promoter and subdomain A1) of the 35S promoter as a model. A set of modified 35S promoters were developed whose strength was compared with the 35S promoter per se using β-glucuronidase as the reporter gene. Analysis of the expression of the reporter gene in transient assay system showed that domain swapping led to a significant fall in promoter activity. In contrast, promoters developed by placing cis-elements in a novel DNA context showed levels of expression comparable with that of the 35S. Two promoter constructs Mod2A1T and Mod3A1T were then designed by placing the core sequences of minimal promoter and subdomain A1 in divergent DNA sequences. Transgenics developed in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) with the two constructs and with 35S as control were used to assess the promoter activity in different tissues of primary transformants. Mod2A1T and Mod3A1T were found to be active in all of the tissues tested, at levels comparable with that of 35S. Further, the expression of the Mod2A1T promoter in the seedlings of the T1 generation was also similar to that of the 35S promoter. The present strategy opens up the possibility of creating a set of synthetic promoters with minimum sequence homology and with expression levels comparable with the wild-type prototype by modifying sequences present between cis-elements for transgene expression in plants.
Expression Pattern of Two Paralogs Encoding Cinnamyl Alcohol Dehydrogenases in Arabidopsis. Isolation and Characterization of the Corresponding Mutants
Authors: Sibout Richard , Eudes Aymerick , Pollet Brigitte , Goujon Thomas , Mila Isabelle , Granier Fabienne , Séguin Armand , Lapierre Catherine , Jouanin Lise
Published: June 2003

Studying Arabidopsis mutants of the phenylpropanoid pathway has unraveled several biosynthetic steps of monolignol synthesis. Most of the genes leading to monolignol synthesis have been characterized recently in this herbaceous plant, except those encoding cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD). We have used the complete sequencing of the Arabidopsis genome to highlight a new view of the complete CAD gene family. Among nine AtCAD genes, we have identified the two distinct paralogs AtCAD-C and AtCAD-D, which share 75% identity and are likely to be involved in lignin biosynthesis in other plants. Northern, semiquantitative restriction fragment-length polymorphism-reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and western analysis revealed that AtCAD-C and AtCAD-D mRNA and protein ratios were organ dependent. Promoter activities of both genes are high in fibers and in xylem bundles. However, AtCAD-C displayed a larger range of sites of expression than AtCAD-D. Arabidopsis null mutants (Atcad-D and Atcad-C) corresponding to both genes were isolated. CAD activities were drastically reduced in both mutants, with a higher impact on sinapyl alcohol dehydrogenase activity (6% and 38% of residual sinapyl alcohol dehydrogenase activities for Atcad-D and Atcad-C, respectively). Only Atcad-D showed a slight reduction in Klason lignin content and displayed modifications of lignin structure with a significant reduced proportion of conventional S lignin units in both stems and roots, together with the incorporation of sinapaldehyde structures ether linked at Cβ. These results argue for a substantial role of AtCAD-D in lignification, and more specifically in the biosynthesis of sinapyl alcohol, the precursor of S lignin units.
Identification of Glycosylphosphatidylinositol-Anchored Proteins in Arabidopsis. A Proteomic and Genomic Analysis
Authors: Borner Georg H.H. , Lilley Kathryn S. , Stevens Timothy J. , Dupree Paul
Published: June 2003

In a recent bioinformatic analysis, we predicted the presence of multiple families of cell surface glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins (GAPs) in Arabidopsis (G.H.H. Borner, D.J. Sherrier, T.J. Stevens, I.T. Arkin, P. Dupree [2002] Plant Physiol 129: 486-499). A number of publications have since demonstrated the importance of predicted GAPs in diverse physiological processes including root development, cell wall integrity, and adhesion. However, direct experimental evidence for their GPI anchoring is mostly lacking. Here, we present the first, to our knowledge, large-scale proteomic identification of plant GAPs. Triton X-114 phase partitioning and sensitivity to phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C were used to prepare GAP-rich fractions from Arabidopsis callus cells. Two-dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis and one-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis demonstrated the existence of a large number of phospholipase C-sensitive Arabidopsis proteins. Using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, 30 GAPs were identified, including six β-1,3 glucanases, five phytocyanins, four fasciclin-like arabinogalactan proteins, four receptor-like proteins, two Hedgehog-interacting-like proteins, two putative glycerophosphodiesterases, a lipid transfer-like protein, a COBRA-like protein, SKU5, and SKS1. These results validate our previous bioinformatic analysis of the Arabidopsis protein database. Using the confirmed GAPs from the proteomic analysis to train the search algorithm, as well as improved genomic annotation, an updated in silico screen yielded 64 new candidates, raising the total to 248 predicted GAPs in Arabidopsis.
The Monosaccharide Transporter Gene, AtSTP4, and the Cell-Wall Invertase, Atβfruct1, Are Induced in Arabidopsis during Infection with the Fungal Biotroph Erysiphe cichoracearum
Authors: Fotopoulos Vasileios , Gilbert Martin J. , Pittman Jon K. , Marvier Alison C. , Buchanan Aram J. , Sauer Norbert , Hall J.L. , Williams Lorraine E.
Published: June 2003

Powdery mildew fungi are biotrophic pathogens that form a complex interface, the haustorium, between the host plant and the parasite. The pathogen acts as an additional sink, competing with host sinks, resulting in considerable modification of photoassimilate production and partitioning within the host tissue. Here, we examine the factors that may contribute to these changes. We show for the first time in one biotrophic interaction (Arabidopsis/Erysiphe cichoracearum) all of the following responses: Glc uptake in host tissues is enhanced after fungal infection; this coincides with the induction of expression of the monosaccharide transporter gene, Arabidopsis sugar transport protein 4 (AtSTP4), in infected leaves; invertase activity and transcript levels for a cell wall invertase, Atβfruct1, increase substantially in Arabidopsis during attack by this pathogen. Before infection, Arabidopsis plants transformed with an AtSTP4 promoter-β-glucuronidase construct show expression mainly in sink tissues such as roots; after infection, AtSTP4 expression is induced in the mature leaves and increases over the 6-d time period. Sections of infected leaves stained for β-glucuronidase show that AtSTP4 expression is not confined to infected epidermal cells but is also evident in a wider range of cells, including those of the vascular tissue. The results are discussed in relation to the possible coordinated expression of hexose transporters and cell wall invertase in the host response to powdery mildew infection.
Overexpression of AtCPS and AtKS in Arabidopsis Confers Increased ent-Kaurene Production But No Increase in Bioactive Gibberellins
Authors: Fleet Christine M. , Yamaguchi Shinjiro , Hanada Atsushi , Kawaide Hiroshi , David Charles J. , Kamiya Yuji , Sun Tai-ping
Published: June 2003

The plant growth hormone gibberellin (GA) is important for many aspects of plant growth and development. Although most genes encoding enzymes at each step of the GA biosynthetic pathway have been cloned, their regulation is less well understood. To assess how up-regulation of early steps affects the biosynthetic pathway overall, we have examined transgenic Arabidopsis plants that overexpress either AtCPS or AtKS or both. These genes encode the enzymes ent-copalyl diphosphate synthase (CPS) and ent-kaurene synthase, which catalyze the first two committed steps in GA biosynthesis. We find that both CPS and CPS/ent-kaurene synthase overexpressors have greatly increased levels of the early intermediates ent-kaurene and ent-kaurenoic acid, but a lesser increase of later metabolites. These overexpression lines do not exhibit any GA overdose morphology and have wild-type levels of bioactive GAs. Our data show that CPS is limiting for ent-kaurene production and suggest that conversion of ent-kaurenoic acid to GA12 by ent-kaurenoic acid oxidase may be an important rate-limiting step for production of bioactive GA. These results demonstrate the ability of plants to maintain GA homeostasis despite large changes in accumulation of early intermediates in the biosynthetic pathway.
The GMD1 and GMD2 Genes of Arabidopsis Encode Isoforms of GDP-D-Mannose 4,6-Dehydratase with Cell Type-Specific Expression Patterns
Authors: Bonin Christopher P. , Freshour Glenn , Hahn Michael G. , Vanzin Gary F. , Reiter Wolf-Dieter
Published: June 2003

l-Fucose (l-Fuc) is a monosaccharide constituent of plant cell wall polysaccharides and glycoproteins. The committing step in the de novo synthesis of l-Fuc is catalyzed by GDP-d-mannose 4,6-dehydratase, which, in Arabidopsis, is encoded by the GMD1 and GMD2 (MUR1) genes. To determine the functional significance of this genetic redundancy, the expression patterns of both genes were investigated via promoter-β-glucuronidase fusions and immunolocalization of a Fuc-containing epitope. GMD2 is expressed in most cell types of the root, with the notable exception of the root tip where strong expression of GMD1 is observed. Within shoot organs, GMD1::GUS expression is confined to stipules and pollen grains leading to fucosylation of the walls of these cell types in the mur1 mutant. These results suggest that GMD2 represents the major housekeeping gene for the de novo synthesis of GDP-l-Fuc, whereas GMD1 expression is limited to a number of specialized cell types. We conclude that the synthesis of GDP-l-Fuc is controlled in a cell-autonomous manner by differential expression of two isoforms of the same enzyme.
Characterization of green seed, an Enhancer of abi3-1 in Arabidopsis That Affects Seed Longevity
Authors: Clerkx Emile J.M. , Vries Hetty Blankestijn-De , Ruys Gerda J. , Groot Steven P.C. , Koornneef Maarten
Published: June 2003

Seeds are usually stored in physiological conditions in which they gradually lose their viability and vigor depending on storage conditions, storage time, and genotype. Very little is known about the underlying genetics of seed storability and seed deterioration. We analyzed a mutant in Arabidopsis disturbed in seed storability. This mutant was isolated as a grs (green-seeded) mutant in an abi3-1 (abscisic acid 3) mutant background. Genetic and physiological characterization showed that the monogenic grs mutant was not visibly green seeded and mapped on chromosome 4. This enhancer mutation did not affect the ABA sensitivity of seed germination or seed dormancy but was found to affect seed storability and seedling vigor. Seed storability was assessed in a controlled deterioration test, in which the germination capacity of the mutant decreased with the duration of the treatment. The decrease in viability and vigor was confirmed by storing the seeds in two relative humidities (RHs) for a prolonged period. At 60% RH, the mutant lost germinability, but storage at 32% RH showed no decrease of germination although seed vigor decreased. The decrease in viability and vigor could be related to an increase in conductivity, suggesting membrane deterioration. This was not affected by light conditions during imbibition, expected to influence the generation of active oxygen species. During seed maturation, ABI3 regulates several processes: acquiring dormancy and long-term storability and loss of chlorophyll. Our results indicate that GRS is a common regulator in the latter two but not of dormancy/germination.
Arabidopsis Genes Involved in Acyl Lipid Metabolism. A 2003 Census of the Candidates, a Study of the Distribution of Expressed Sequence Tags in Organs, and a Web-Based Database
Authors: Beisson Frédéric , Koo Abraham J.K. , Ruuska Sari , Schwender Jörg , Pollard Mike , Thelen Jay J. , Paddock Troy , Salas Joaquín J. , Savage Linda , Milcamps Anne , Mhaske Vandana B. , Cho Younghee , Ohlrogge John B.
Published: June 2003

The genome of Arabidopsis has been searched for sequences of genes involved in acyl lipid metabolism. Over 600 encoded proteins have been identified, cataloged, and classified according to predicted function, subcellular location, and alternative splicing. At least one-third of these proteins were previously annotated as “unknown function” or with functions unrelated to acyl lipid metabolism; therefore, this study has improved the annotation of over 200 genes. In particular, annotation of the lipolytic enzyme group (at least 110 members total) has been improved by the critical examination of the biochemical literature and the sequences of the numerous proteins annotated as “lipases.” In addition, expressed sequence tag (EST) data have been surveyed, and more than 3,700 ESTs associated with the genes were cataloged. Statistical analysis of the number of ESTs associated with specific cDNA libraries has allowed calculation of probabilities of differential expression between different organs. More than 130 genes have been identified with a statistical probability > 0.95 of preferential expression in seed, leaf, root, or flower. All the data are available as a Web-based database, the Arabidopsis Lipid Gene database (http://www.plantbiology.msu.edu/lipids/genesurvey/index.htm). The combination of the data of the Lipid Gene Catalog and the EST analysis can be used to gain insights into differential expression of gene family members and sets of pathway-specific genes, which in turn will guide studies to understand specific functions of individual genes.
Identification and Characterization of Aluminum Tolerance Loci in Arabidopsis (Landsberg erecta × Columbia) by Quantitative Trait Locus Mapping. A Physiologically Simple But Genetically Complex Trait
Authors: Hoekenga Owen A. , Vision Todd J. , Shaff Jon E. , Monforte Antonio J. , Lee Gung Pyo , Howell Stephen H. , Kochian Leon V.
Published: June 2003

Aluminum (Al) toxicity, which is caused by the solubilization of Al3+ in acid soils resulting in inhibition of root growth and nutrient/water acquisition, is a serious limitation to crop production, because up to one-half of the world's potentially arable land is acidic. To date, however, no Al tolerance genes have yet been cloned. The physiological mechanisms of tolerance are somewhat better understood; the major documented mechanism involves the Al-activated release of Al-binding organic acids from the root tip, preventing uptake into the primary site of toxicity. In this study, a quantitative trait loci analysis of Al tolerance in Arabidopsis was conducted, which also correlated Al tolerance quantitative trait locus (QTL) with physiological mechanisms of tolerance. The analysis identified two major loci, which explain approximately 40% of the variance in Al tolerance observed among recombinant inbred lines derived from Landsberg erecta (sensitive) and Columbia (tolerant). We characterized the mechanism by which tolerance is achieved, and we found that the two QTL cosegregate with an Al-activated release of malate from Arabidopsis roots. Although only two of the QTL have been identified, malate release explains nearly all (95%) of the variation in Al tolerance in this population. Al tolerance in Landsberg erecta × Columbia is more complex genetically than physiologically, in that a number of genes underlie a single physiological mechanism involving root malate release. These findings have set the stage for the subsequent cloning of the genes responsible for the Al tolerance QTL, and a genomics-based cloning strategy and initial progress on this are also discussed.
‘A Matter of Much Contention in the Realm’: Parish Controversies over Communion Bread in Post‐Reformation England
Authors: Haigh Christopher
Published: June 2003

In 1559 the Book of Common Prayer ordered that bread should be used at communion services in English churches, but the royal Injunctions prescribed wafers. At first, Archbishop Parker and most of his bishops tried to enforce wafers, as Queen Elizabeth commanded, but this led to protests from Protestant clergy and some laypeople, who regarded the wafers as popish. After Parker's death in 1575, however, the bishops were more inclined to enforce the use of bread – which led to widespread objections from parishioners who wanted the customary wafers. ‘Bread or wafers’ became a divisive issue in many parts of England, with Protestants refusing wafers when offered and traditionalists refusing bread. By the mid‐1590s, however, most congregations had got used to bread, and after the Canons of 1604 the last of the wafer‐using parishes came into line. Bread had won the day.
Excluded Souls: The Wayward and Excommunicated in Counter‐Reformation Spain
Authors: Tausiet María
Published: June 2003

In the late sixteenth century, one of the main weapons used by the Catholic and Counter‐Reformation church to discipline its faithful was the application of excommunication. In theory this was the gravest spiritual punishment because it meant not only deprivation of the sacraments but also of communication and human relations. However, the abuse of excommunication from the late middle ages onwards led to its discredit and the loss of its former significance. In 1563 the Council of Trent made a decisive move to re‐establish excommunication as a punishment for disobedience, rebelliousness or contumacy, no matter what the reasons were for the contumacy. Detailed analysis of the excommunicated in Counter‐Reformation Spain through the writings of contemporary theologians and the actual policy practised by the two institutions in charge of ecclesiastical justice (episcopal courts and the Inquisition), reveals a picture in which many people were excommunicated not because of their rebelliousness, as the Church claimed, but rather as a result of either their carelessness or indifference or because they practised a kind of religiosity that was alien to the official religion.
Praying by Number: The Confraternity of the Rosary and the English Catholic Community, c.1580–1700
Authors: Dillon Anne
Published: June 2003

The image of the rosary recurs as a constant and familiar sign throughout the sources of Reformation English Catholicism. It rarely elicits comment other than to mark it as an example of a remnant of late medieval devotion, which survived and continued to be practised by the recusant community. This article argues that such impressions of quiescence and continuity are deceptive. The devotion was revised and amended by the Jesuits in the light of Counter‐Reformation initiatives and teaching and specifically adapted to meet the particular conditions they encountered on the English mission. Newly refigured, the rosary was encoded and promoted among English Catholics within the context of the Confraternity of the Rosary. In this way, the Jesuits redeveloped the rosary both as a simple and effective didactic instrument which they used to bring Counter‐Reformation doctrine and practice into the heart of the English Catholic community, and as a symbol of Catholic loyalty to encourage Catholic separation and recusancy.
Transparency, Democratic Accountability, and the Economic Consequences of Monetary Institutions
Authors: Stasavage David
Published: June 2003

Debates about the appropriate mix between autonomy and accountability of bureaucrats are relevant to numerous areas of government action. I examine whether there is evidence of a tradeoff between transparency, democratic accountability, and the gains from monetary delegation. I begin by presenting a simple theoretical model which suggests that central banks that are transparent, in the sense of publishing their macroeconomic forecasts, will find it easier to acquire a reputation. Despite making central banks more subject to outside scrutiny then, monetary transparency can lead to improved economic outcomes. I also consider arguments about the effect of accountability provisions involving parliamentary oversight and control over central bankers. The article then uses a new data set to examine these issues empirically, focusing on a natural experiment involving disinflation costs under different central banking institutions during the 1990s. Results suggest that countries with more transparent central banks face lower costs of disinflation while accountability provisions have no clear effect on disinflation costs. My results also concord with earlier findings that the effect of monetary institutions is conditional on other features of the political environment.