bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specificity Studies of Bacterial Sulfatases by Means of Structurally Defined Sulfated Oligosaccharides Isolated from Shark Cartilage Chondroitin Sulfate D
Authors: Sugahara Kazuyuki , Kojima Takeshi
Published: July 2004

Chondro‐4‐sulfatase and chondro‐6‐sulfatase from Proteus vulgaris and ?4hexuronate‐2‐sulfatase from Flavobacteriurn heparinum are potentially useful tools for structural studies of chondroitin sulfate and dermatan sulfate. Their substrate specificities were investigated with various structurally defined, sulfated hexasaccharides isolated from chondroitin sulfate as described in the accompanying report [Sugahara, K., Nadanaka, S., Takeda, K. & Kojima, T. (1996) Eur. J. Biochem. 239, 871‐880]. The results indicated that ?4hexuronate‐2‐sulfatase released an ester sulfate from the C2 position of the ?4hexuronate residue located at the non‐reducing terminus, while chondro‐6‐sulfatase removed an ester sulfate from the C6 position of the GalNAc residue at the reducing end of the hexasaccharides. Chondro‐4‐sulfatase acted preferentially on an ester sulfate on the C4 position of the GalNAc residue at the reducing end under mild incubation conditions, but also released a sulfate group under harsh conditions from the C4 position of the GalNAc residue at the internal positions of the hexasaccharide chains, unless the GalNAc residue had another ester sulfate on its C6 position. The results demonstrated the usefulness of the sulfatases as tools for the structural characterization of chondroitin sulfate oligosaccharides.
Structural Analysis of Unsaturated Hexasaccharides Isolated from Shark Cartilage Chondroitin Sulfate D that are Substrates for the Exolytic Action of Chondroitin ABC Lyase
Authors: Sugahara Kazuyuki , Nadanaka Satomi , Takeda Kyoko , Kojima Takeshi
Published: July 2004

The enzymatic action of highly purified chondroitin ABC lyase from Proteus vulgaris is dependent on the size of the substrate, and the enzyme does not cleave tetrasaccharides, irrespective of their sulfation profiles [Sugahara, K., Shigeno, K., Masuda, M., Fujii, N., Kurosaka, A. & Takeda, K. (1994) Carbohydr: Res. 255, 145–163]. To characterize the enzyme action in more detail, we isolated nine sulfated hexasaccharides from commercial shark cartilage chondroitin sulfate D, after partial digestion with highly purified chondroitin ABC lyase, by means of gel chromatography and HPLC on an amine‐bound silica column. Structural analysis by 500‐MHz 1H‐NMR spectroscopy, and enzymatic digestion in conjunction with HPLC, demonstrated that these hexasaccharides, with the common core saccharide structure ?4HexA(α1‐3)‐GalNAc(βl‐4)GlcA(β1‐3)GalNAc(β1‐4)GlcA(β1‐3)GalNAc (where ?4HexA and GlcA represent 4‐deoxy‐α‐l‐threa‐hex‐4‐enepyranosyluronic acid and glucuronic acid, respectively) bear three or four sulfate groups in different combinations. In the hexasaccharides, the D disaccharide unit GlcA2‐SO3−(β1‐3)GalNAc6SO3−, which is characteristic of chondroitin sulfate D, was arranged on the reducing side of the A disaccharide unit GlcA(βl‐3)GalNAc4SO3−, and thus formed an A‐D tetrasaccharide sequence GIcA(β1‐3)GalNAc4SO3−(β1‐4)GlcA2SO–(β1‐3)GalNAc6SO3−. Analysis of the degradation products of these hexasaccharides with highly purified chondroitin ABC lyase indicated that the enzyme preferentially acted on the unsaturated hexasaccharides in an exolytic fashion and removed an unsaturated disaccharide unit from the non‐reducing termini, irrespective of the sulfation profiles of the hexasaccharides.
A Highly Efficient Cell‐Free Protein Synthesis System from Escherichia coli
Authors: Kim Dong‐Myung , Kigawa Takanori , Choi Cha‐Yong , Yokoyama Shigeyuki
Published: July 2004

We modified a cell‐free coupled transcription/translation system from Escherichia coli with the T7 phage RNA polymerase, and achieved a productivity as high as 0.4 mg protein/ml reaction mixture. First, we found that the optimal concentrations of phosphoenolpyruvate and poly(ethylene glycol) are interdependent; higher concentrations of the former should be used at higher concentrations of the latter. Second, the use of a condensed 30000×g cell extract, in place of the conventional one, significantly increased the initial rate of protein synthesis. This phenomenon was demonstrated to be due to a reason other than elimination of inhibitory molecule(s) from the extract. For this system with the condensed extract, the phosphoenolpyruvate and poly(ethylene glycol) concentrations were again co‐optimized, resulting in production of chloramphenicol acetyltransferase at a productivity of 0.3 mg/ml. Finally, the productivity was further increased up to 0.4 mg/ml, by supplementation of the pool of amino acids. This improved cell‐free protein synthesis system is superior in productivity to any other cell‐free systems.
A Novel Fucosyltetrahexosylceramide in Plerocercoids of the Parasite Spirometra erinacei
Authors: Kawakami Yasushi , Nakamura Kazuo , Kojima Hisako , Suzuki Minoru , Inagaki Fuyuhiko , Suzuki Akemi , Ikuta Junko , Uchida Akihiko , Murata Yoshihiko , Tamai Yoichi
Published: July 2004

A novel glycosphingolipid, fucosyltetrahexosylceramide, has been isolated from the plerocercoids of a tapeworm, Spirometra erinacei, and characterized by permethylation analysis, sequential degradation with exoglycosidases, fast atom bombardment MS and 1H‐NMR. The chemical structure was determined to be as follows.
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This glycosphingolipid was tentatively designated as GalSEGLx, in which the carbohydrate structure is characterized by an additional galactose molecule attached to the reducing‐end galactose of SEGLx [Gal,β‐4(Fucα‐3)Glcβ‐3GalβCer], which was previously determined by us [Kawakami, Y., Nakamura, K., Kojima, H., Suzuki, M., Inagaki, F., Suzuki, A., Sonoki, S., Uchida, A., Murata, Y. & Tamai, Y. (1993) J. Biochem. 114, 677–683], through a β1–6 linkage. The ceramide contained sphinganine and 4D ‐hydroxysphinganine in an about equimolar ratio, and a non‐hydroxy fatty acid with carbon atoms ranging from 16 to 28, 26:0, 28:0 and 28:1 being major components. Based on the finding that a novel carbohydrate structure, Galβ‐4Glcβ‐3Gal, was commonly found in glycosphingolipids from the parasite, S. erinacei, we here propose the terms, spirometo series, for this core structure series, and spirometosides, for glycosphingolipids having this carbohydrate structure.
Molecular Cloning and Characterization of a Transcription Factor for the C‐Type Natriuretic Peptide Gene Promoter
Authors: Ohta Shigeki , Shimekake Yoshiyuki , Nagata Kiyoshi
Published: July 2004

Our previous studies on the promoter function of the human C‐type natriuretic peptide (CNP) gene revealed the existence of two GC‐rich cis elements essential for gene transcription in rat pituitary‐derived GH3 cells. To isolate transcription factors that bind to those GC‐rich elements, we screened a λZAP cDNA library derived from GH3 cells by Southwestern screening. Several positive clones with specific binding abilities were obtained, and one was identical as TSC‐22, a speculated transcriptional modulator stimulated by transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) of unknown function. TSC‐22 significantly enhanced CNP promoter activity in GH3 cells. We further cloned a 1.8‐kb full‐length human TSC‐22 cDNA from a fetal kidney cDNA library by a combination of polymerase chain reaction and the rapid amplification of the cDNA ends technique. In adults, human TSC‐22 mRNA was highly expressed in brain, lung and heart. TSC‐22 gene expression in GH3 and human aortic endothelial cells was stimulated by cytokines including TGF‐β in correlation with the CNP mRNA increase. These results suggest that TSC‐22 is a transcriptional regulator of the CNP gene and transmits signals from cytokines, such as TGF‐β, to CNP gene expression.
Pituitary Adenylate‐Cyclase‐Activating Polypeptide Stimulates Proto‐oncogene Expression and Activates the AP‐1 (c‐Fos/c‐Jun) Transcription Factor in AR4‐2J Pancreatic Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Schäfer Heiner , Zheng Jie , Gundlach Friederike , Günther Rainer , Siegel Erhard G. , Fölsch Ulrich R. , Schmidt Wolfgang E.
Published: July 2004

Pituitary adenylate‐cyclase‐activating polypeptide (PACAP) has been shown to possess mitogenic activity in various tumor cells. The present study was designed to investigate signal transduction mechanisms and expression of the proto‐oncogenes c‐fos and c‐jun linked to the mitogenic effect of PACAP in the pancreatic carcinoma cell line AR4‐2J. PACAP‐(1–27)‐peptide and PACAP‐(1–38)‐peptide, but not the structurally related vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), potently stimulated [3H]thymidine incorporation and cell number at doses of 0.1–10 nM. Both molecular forms of PACAP strongly increased formation of cAMP and inositol trisphosphate, elevated cytosolic Ca2+ levels and induced mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase activity. Quantitative reverse‐transcription PCR revealed that PACAP‐(1–27)‐peptide and PACAP‐(1–38)‐peptide elevated c‐fos mRNA levels 50–100‐fold, whereas c‐jun mRNA levels increased only moderately (2–3‐fold). The effect of PACAP on c‐jos and c‐jun expression in AR42J cells was rapid (20 min), transient (1–2 h), dose‐dependent (IC50, 0.5 nM) and was abolished by the specific PACAP receptor antagonist PACAP‐(6–38)‐peptide or inhibitors of protein kinase C or tyrosine kinases. Compared with PACAP, epidermal growth factor and gastrin equipotently stimulated c‐fos transcription whereas VIP, secretin, forskolin or phorbol ester showed only marginal effects. Both PACAP‐(1–27)‐peptide and PACAP‐(1–38)‐peptide strongly increased the DNA binding activity of the c‐fos/c‐jun heterodimer transcription factor AP‐1 at 10 nM and also stimulated AP‐1 transcriptional activity up to 20‐fold in AR4‐2J cells. These findings indicate that the mitogenic effect of PACAP mediated via activation of the GTP‐binding protein coupled PACAP/VIP‐1 (PV1) receptor is linked to the MAP kinase cascade, increased expression of the proto‐oncogenes c‐fos and c‐jun and activation of the heterodimeric transcription factor AP‐1.
Molecular Basis of Residue 192 Participation in Determination of Coagulation Protease Specificity
Authors: Rezaie Alireza R. , Esmon Charles T.
Published: July 2004

Residue 192 (chymotrypsin numbering system) in thrombin, activated protein C, and factor Xa contributes to the specificity of these enzymes toward their substrates and inhibitors. A Glu192→Gln mutation in both thrombin and activated protein C yielded enzymes that reacted better with some, but not all, of their natural substrates and inhibitors. To determine whether the specificity change is due to productive interactions of Gln192 with substrates and inhibitors or elimination of repulsive electrostatic interactions, we prepared forms of thrombin, des‐(1–45)‐factor Xa and activated des‐(1–45)‐protein C with Glu, Gln, or Met at position 192 and compared their activities toward inhibitors and substrates. All mutants had nearly normal amidolytic activity. The Glu192→Gln and Glu192→Met mutations of thrombin and activated des‐(1–45)‐protein C increased the second‐order rate constant (k2) of inhibition by α1‐antitrypsin about 700‐fold and 170‐fold for thrombin, and 185‐fold and 150‐fold for activated des‐(1–45)‐protein C, respectively. [E192]faxtor Xa, but not [M192]factor Xa, was resistant to inhibition by α1‐antitrypsin. Glu→Gln or Glu→Met mutants of both thrombin and activated des‐(1–45)‐protein C were effectively inhibited by tissue factor pathway inhibitor (Ki<200 nM) and, except for [M192]thrombin, by bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor (Ki<60 nM). With respect to substrate cleavage, Glu192→Gln and Glu192→Met mutations of activated des‐(1–45)‐protein C both inactivated factor Va 2–3‐fold faster than activated des‐(1–45)‐protein C. Thrombin and [M192]thrombin activated protein C at similar slow rates compared to rapid activation by [Q192]thrombin. The Gln192→Glu and Gln192→Met mutants of des‐(1–45)‐factor Xa activated prethrombin 1, 8–11‐fold slower than wild‐type enzyme. With thrombomodulin or factor Va present, these differences in protein C and prethrombin 1 activation rates were decreased to about 2‐fold. We conclude that residue 192 contribution to enzyme specificity is achieved by both productive and repulsive interactions and that the magnitude and nature of the participation varies among enzymes, substrates, and inhibitors.
Screening of Brazilian Bacillus sphaericus strains for high toxicity against Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti
Authors: Monnerat R. , Da Silva S. F. , Dias D. S. , Martins É. S. , Praça L. B. , Jones G. W. , Soares C. M. , de Souza Dias J. M. C. , Berry C.
Published: July 2004

Abstract:  In this work, 246 Bacillus sphaericus strains were evaluated against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus larvae to select the most effective ones to be used as the basis of a national product. All strains were isolated from different regions of Brazil and they are stored in a Bacillus spp. collection at Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology. The selected strains were characterized by biochemical and molecular methods. Based on selective bioassays, 87 strains were identified as toxic to one or both target species. All of these strains contain genes that encode the 42, 51 kDa proteins that constitute the binary toxin and the 100 kDa Mtx1 toxin. All toxic strains presented a very high LC50 against A. aegypti, so, a product based on any of these B. sphaericus strains would not be recommended for use in programmes to control A. aegypti. S201 had highest activity against C. quinquefasciatus, presenting the lowest LC50 and LC90 in bioassays.
Response of the whitespotted sawyer beetle, Monochamus s. scutellatus, and associated woodborers to pheromones of some Ips and Dendroctonus bark beetles
Authors: de Groot P. , Nott R. W.
Published: July 2004

The response of whitespotted sawyer beetle, Monochamus s. scutellatus, to pheromones of the bark beetles, Dendroctonus rufipennis, Ips pini, Ips perturbatus and Ips latidens, and α‐pinene was investigated with field‐trapping experiments. Traps baited with ipsenol caught significantly more M. s. scutellatus than unbaited traps, whereas the other compounds (ipsdienol, ipsdienol plus lanierone, ipsdienol plus cis‐verbenol or frontalin) did not. Combining α‐pinene with ipsdienol, ipsdienol plus lanierone, ipsdienol plus cis‐verbenol or with frontalin did not increase captures of M. s. scutellatus above those of α‐pinene alone, whereas the combination of α‐pinene with ipsenol did. When α‐pinene was combined with ipsdienol or frontalin, trap captures of Monochamus mutator were significantly higher than unbaited traps or traps baited with frontalin but were not higher than traps baited with α‐pinene. The combination of ipsenol and α‐pinene was significantly more attractive to Monochamus notatus than unbaited traps; however, traps containing either ipsenol or α‐pinene were as attractive as the combination. None of the species of Buprestidae (Buprestis maculativentris and Chalcophora virginiensis) responded significantly to any of the treatments.
Temperature‐dependent development and immature survival of an aphidophagous ladybeetle, Propylea dissecta (Mulsant)
Authors: Omkar  , Pervez A.
Published: July 2004

Development and survival of the immature stages of an aphidophagous ladybeetle, Propylea dissecta (Mulsant) was investigated at five constant temperatures, viz. 20, 25, 27, 30 and 35°C, using Aphis gossypii Glover as prey. Developmental period of all the life stages were significantly affected with change in constant temperature and developmental rate increased with increase in temperature. Theoretical lower thermal threshold for complete development and thermal constant was 10.39°C and 465.11 Day‐degrees, respectively. Of the various life stages, first instar larvae were most susceptible to mortality at temperatures between 20 and 30°C, whilst pre‐pupae suffered least mortality. Egg‐mortality was maximum at 35°C. Female biased sex ratios were obtained at all five temperatures tested with higher proportion of females at the extremes of temperature, thus suggesting that females are more thermal‐tolerant. Lowest mortality of immature stages with maximum larval survival and adult emergence was recorded at 27°C, while reverse was the case at 35°C. Thus, 27°C may be considered best for the laboratory rearing of P. dissecta.
Mortality from multiple sclerosis in Austria 1970–2001: dynamics, trends, and prospects
Authors: Ekestern E. , Lebhart G.
Published: July 2004

A divergence in earlier multiple sclerosis (MS) mortality rates observed within Europe, prompted us to determine the MS mortality rate in Austria and several European countries. Our aim was to examine the temporal and geographical variations within Austria and to determine future MS mortality rates based on a projection model. MS mortality data set, differentiated by age groups, sex, and region at death for the period 1970–2001 were obtained. Prognostic MS mortality trends for the period 2002–2020 were estimated using the simultaneous multiple cause–delay (SIMCAD) method. Our findings indicate a decline (47%) in the MS mortality rate from 1.41 (1970–79) to 0.96 (1980–89) and 0.70 (1990–2001) per 100 000 in Austria during the 32‐year period observed. Conversely, the scenarios of our projection for the period 2002–2020, reveal an increasing MS mortality rate. The median age at death because of MS increased with 0.7 years for men and 2.9 years for women during the observed period (1970–2001). Austria, like many other European countries, has experienced a decreasing MS mortality rate over the last three decades. An increased MS mortality rate is however expected over the next decades in Austria. This increase will be most prominent in the elderly population cohorts because of demographic shifts.
Joubert syndrome: review and report of seven new cases
Authors: Kumandas S. , Akcakus M. , Coskun A. , Gumus H.
Published: July 2004

Joubert syndrome (JS) is an autosomal‐recessive disorder, characterized by hypotonia, ataxia, global developmental delay and molar tooth sign on magnetic resonance imaging. A variety of other abnormalities have been described in children with JS, including abnormal breathing, abnormal eye movements, a characteristic facial appearance, delayed language, hypersensitivity to noise, autism, ocular and oculomotor abnormalities, meningoencephaloceles, microcephaly, low‐set ears, polydactyly, retinal dysplasia, kidney abnormalities (renal cysts), soft tissue tumor of the tongue, liver disease and duodenal atresia. Even within siblings the phenotype may vary, making it difficult to establish the exact clinical diagnostic boundaries of JS. We review the clinical characteristics of seven cases that fulfill the criteria of JS.
CSF isoelectrofocusing in a large cohort of MS and other neurological diseases
Authors: Bourahoui A. , De Seze J. , Guttierez R. , Onraed B. , Hennache B. , Ferriby D. , Stojkovic T. , Vermersch P.
Published: July 2004

The present study was performed in order to confirm the diagnostic value of isoelectrofocusing (IEF) in a large multiple sclerosis (MS) cohort and to evaluate the various neurological diseases probably to present a similar IEF profile. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 1292 patients with neurological diseases was studied by IEF. After a follow‐up of 2–36 months, we only included patients with a definite MS or confirmed diagnosis of other neurological diseases (OND). MS was diagnosed in 407 patients and OND in 593 patients. For patients in whom three or more oligoclonal bands (OCB) were detected, IEF results showed a sensitivity of 85% and a specificity of 92% for the diagnosis of MS. The positive and negative predictive values were 86.5 and 90%, respectively. Inflammatory and infectious disorders of the central nervous system represented the main affections associated with OCB, including human immunodeficiency virus encephalitis, Lyme disease and less frequently Sjogren syndrome. Furthermore, when OCB were observed, 10 or more bands were more frequently found in MS than in OND (P < 0.0001). IEF of the CSF is a reliable method for the diagnosis of MS. The absolute number of bands may help to discriminate between MS and OND.
Excessive daytime somnolence in Japanese patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Furumoto H.
Published: July 2004

To investigate the prevalence and severity of excessive daytime somnolence (EDS) in Japanese patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and to examine the main cause of EDS. Fifty‐three Japanese patients with PD (PDs: 32 females and 21 males) and 17 controls (10 females and seven males) were evaluated using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). The severity of the disease was evaluated by Unified Parkinson's disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), and information about quality and quantity of medications was collected. The correlations amongst EDS and age, severity of PD, duration of illness and medications were analyzed. The mean ESS score was significantly higher in advanced PDs than in controls, and correlated with the UPDRS score (rs = 0.743, P < 0.0001). Age, duration of illness and the dose of levodopa weakly correlated with ESS score. The intake of dopamine agonists did not affect the severity of EDS. The mean ESS score in PDs was lower than that reported in PD in European and American studies. EDS in Japanese patients with PD was milder compared with Caucasian patients, which might be due to the lower doses of the medications used in Japan. The results suggest that EDS in PD is mainly because of neuropathological changes of the disease itself.
A novel mutation (Thr116Ile) in the presenilin 1 gene in a patient with early‐onset Alzheimer's disease
Authors: La Bella V. , Liguori M. , Cittadella R. , Settipani N. , Piccoli T. , Manna I. , Quattrone A. , Piccoli F.
Published: July 2004

We report a novel presenilin 1 (PSN1) mutation (Thr116Ile) in a woman with early onset Alzheimer's disease (AD). This mutation was not found in 100 healthy controls, indicating that this is not a common polymorphism. The patient presented with forgetfulness at age 45, followed over the next 3 years by a worsening of the memory loss and frequent episodes of confusion and spatial disorientation. Neuroimaging studies were consistent with AD. The analysis of the family's pedigree showed that the proband was apparently the only member affected. Because the early death of several close relatives (i.e. the mother and the grandmother) and the demonstration that the father is not a mutation carrier, it is suggested that either a de novo mutation or a censor effect might have occurred. Our finding supports the indication that PSN1 mutations should be searched for in early‐onset AD, particularly when a censor effect precludes a precise genetic analysis.
Flail arm syndrome: a clinical variant of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Czaplinski A. , Steck A. J. , Andersen P. M. , Weber M.
Published: July 2004

We describe a case of a 65‐year old patient diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The clinical findings, with symmetric, predominantly proximal wasting and weakness of both arms (especially of the infra‐, supraspinatus and deltoideus) leading to severe functional disability and contrasting with preserved independent ambulation and sparing of bulbar muscles, were consistent with the proposed criteria of the so‐called flail arm syndrome. Based on our case we characterize the clinical features of flail arm syndrome and review the literature.
Therapeutic outcome in neuropathic pain: relationship to evidence of nervous system lesion
Authors: Rasmussen P. V. , Sindrup S. H. , Jensen T. S. , Bach F. W.
Published: July 2004

Treatment outcome in patients with neuropathic pain (NP) is often variable and disappointing. We tested the hypothesis that patients with clear evidence of nervous system lesion respond better to pharmacological treatment with documented effect on NP than patients with poor or no evidence of nervous system lesion. Furthermore, we examined whether specific symptoms or signs were associated with treatment outcome. A total of 214 patients with suspected non‐cancer NP were divided into four groups with graded evidence of nervous system lesion based on medical history, bedside sensory examination, quantitative sensory tests, electrophysiology, and neuroimaging. Patients were treated with imipramine guided by plasma–drug concentrations. Gabapentin 2400 mg/day was given in case of treatment failure or if imipramine treatment was not possible. Two hundred patients completed the study. Global pain relief was similar in the four groups. There was no association between evidence of nervous system lesion and treatment outcome. Classical NP signs: abnormal temporal summation, cold and brush allodynia, and abnormal sensibility to temperature were also unrelated to outcome. Treatment outcome was similar in peripheral and central definite NP. Neither definite evidence of nervous system lesion nor abnormal sensory phenomena seems to predict for good outcome of therapy with imipramine or gabapentin in patients with suspected neuropathic pain.
Prednisolone therapy in Duchenne muscular dystrophy prolongs ambulation and prevents scoliosis
Authors: Yılmaz Ö. , Karaduman A. , Topaloğlu H.
Published: July 2004

Steroids may have a beneficial effect on the course of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). However, results vary in different studies. This study consisted of 66 DMD boys who were in the therapy group and 22 DMD boys in the control group. The mean ages were 6.8 ± 2.1 years (range 2.5–12.5) and 7.0 ± 1.3 years (range 5.0–9.0), respectively. We assessed muscle strength, 10‐m walking, ankle contracture, and loss of independent walking ability age and onset of scoliosis. Treatment regimen was oral prednisolone 0.75 mg/kg on alternate days, plus vitamin D 600–1200 units/day and a calcium‐enriched diet. After a follow‐up period of 2.75 ± 1.1 years (range 1.5–5) and when compared with controls, there was a statistically significant change in muscle strength between the two groups after 12 months (P < 0.05). Although 10‐m walking time decreased in therapy group (P < 0.05), there was not significance between the groups in the end. Boys in the control group developed significantly less ankle contractures (P < 0.05). None of the therapy group had scoliosis during the follow‐up period (mean age 10.8 ± 1.2 years), whereas seven boys of the control group had scoliosis at a mean age of 11.7 ± 2 years. Loss of walking ability age was statistically different between groups (P < 0.05). Our results indicate that, alternate‐day prednisolone regimen may prolong ambulation and scoliosis can be delayed or prevented.
Conservation and the Lure of the Garden
Authors: FREYFOGLE ERIC T.
Published: July 2004

Abstract: Among the conservation voices today who seek a sensible “middle ground” in remedying land‐use problems are those who propose a tend‐the‐garden ethic in which humans would merely need to view the earth as a garden and labor to make it productive and beautiful in order to solve conservation challenges. This line of reasoning is exemplified by Michael Pollan's highly praised book,Second Nature, which supports conservation values but harshly criticizes contemporary environmental efforts, including the work of such organizations as The Nature Conservancy. Pollan's portrayal of the gardener as model conservationist is usefully compared with an important essay by Aldo Leopold from a half‐century ago, “The Farmer as a Conservationist,” which similarly uses a model land tender as exemplar of where conservation needs to head. Comparing the two writings reveals profound flaws in the contemporary tend‐the‐garden line of thought. In doing so, it usefully reveals to scientists why their efforts are so often misunderstood and resisted. The popularity of tend‐the‐garden reasoning illustrates how successful the environmental backlash has been in misportraying the motives and aims of serious conservationists, particularly those who seek to protect wildlife and natural habitat. In doing so, it highlights the need for conservationists to take their own ideas more seriously and to do a far better job of presenting those ideas, in coherent form, to broad audiences.
Using Biogeography to Help Set Priorities in Marine Conservation
Authors: LOURIE SARA A. , VINCENT AMANDA C. J.
Published: July 2004

Abstract:  Biogeographic information has great potential to enhance systematic conservation planning, although it has yet to be routinely incorporated in marine situations. Fundamental differences between marine and terrestrial environments (physical, biological, and sociopolitical) mean that biogeographic data are harder to obtain for marine systems, biogeographic boundaries more difficult to define, and the outcomes of similar conservation approaches may differ. Despite these challenges, an understanding of spatial context, connections, and scales of processes is needed to set conservation priorities that ensure the representation and continued persistence of species and habitats within functioning ecosystems. As we discovered in our review, scientific knowledge of marine systems is increasing rapidly thanks to recent advances in genetics, remote sensing, and geographical information systems. Such knowledge and tools have important implications for marine planning. We also reviewed the degree to which biogeography is incorporated into current marine conservation projects at spatial scales ranging from global to local. Overall, initiatives are becoming more regional in scope and incorporating biogeographic data in an increasingly rigorous manner. However, initiatives that use few or no data are also on the rise and need to be treated with due caution. We recommend undertaking global and regional reviews within biogeographic frameworks; combining analytical approaches to determine biogeographic classifications and to define a range of potential conservation areas with stakeholder involvement to set priorities; understanding contemporary processes that maintain species distributions; and acquiring knowledge of historical distributions to provide appropriate baselines for current conservation. The urgent need for marine conservation, however, means that planning should proceed with the best currently available biogeographic information even while biogeographic research continues.
Releasing Adults versus Young in Reintroductions: Interactions between Demography and Genetics
Authors: ROBERT ALEXANDRE , SARRAZIN FRANÇOIS , COUVET DENIS , LEGENDRE STÉPHANE
Published: July 2004

Abstract:  We integrated genetics and demography into population modeling in the context of species restorations, in which both the origin of released individuals and the management strategy may influence the success of introduction. Through an explicit individual‐based simulation approach, we investigated the effects of the age of released individuals by exploring the relative merits of releasing juveniles or adults to establish populations. We included the effect of genetic variability responsible for inbreeding depression and mutational meltdown. Our general analysis uncovered an interaction between the age of founders and the extent of intrapopulation fitness variability, which substantially influenced the efficiency of selection in populations founded by juveniles and had subsequent positive consequences for long‐term persistence compared with the case in which adults were released. We then applied the model to the case of the reintroduction of the Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus fulvus) to southern France, for which post‐release data were available. The demographic aspects of this reintroduction were already analyzed and published, suggesting that it is more efficient to release adults than juveniles, despite an observed reduction of demographic parameters following the release of adults. In that context, the inclusion of genetic considerations qualitatively changes the conclusion, predicting reduced long‐term extinction risk if juveniles rather than adults are released.
Enhancement of Farmland Biodiversity within Set‐Aside Land
Authors: VAN BUSKIRK JOSH , WILLI YVONNE
Published: July 2004

Abstract:  The efficacy of agricultural set‐aside policies for protecting farmland biodiversity is widely debated. Based on a meta‐analysis of 127 published studies, we found that land withdrawn from conventional production unequivocally enhances biodiversity in North America and Europe. The number of species of birds, insects, spiders, and plants is 1–1.5 standard deviation units higher on set‐aside land, and population densities increase by 0.5–1 standard deviation units. Set‐aside land may be especially beneficial for desirable taxa because North American bird species that have exhibited population declines react most positively to set‐aside agricultural land. Larger and older plots protect more species and higher densities, and set‐aside land is more effective in countries with less‐intensive agricultural practices and higher fractions of land removed from production. Although policies specifically designed to protect biodiversity might work even better, current incentives clearly improve the standing of plants and animals in farmland.
Pyromancy: Reading Stories in the Flames
Authors: PYNE STEPHEN J.
Published: July 2004

Abstract:  A consensus history of fire in the United States has emerged over the past decade. It correctly identifies fire suppression's liabilities, while probably over‐enthusing about fire‐science capabilities. What it lacks, however, is a context of the subject's larger, braided narratives. There is, first, the grand story of fire on Earth. Quite apart from active suppression, open fire is disappearing in competition with industrial combustion. Second, there is the peculiar narrative of the public lands, the prime domain for wildland fires. These lands, and the institutions for their management, are rapidly changing. They began as “imperial” institutions, but now are devolving, privatizing, and otherwise decolonizing. Fire will change with those reforms. Third, there is a national narrative, currently obsessed with the collision of the wild and the exurban. This will probably pass within 5–6 years. Finally, there is the evolving narrative of how we imagine fire. We need a truly biological theory of fire, one in which we can flourish as unique fire creatures.
Postfire Management on Forested Public Lands of the Western United States
Authors: BESCHTA ROBERT L. , RHODES JONATHAN J. , KAUFFMAN J. BOONE , GRESSWELL ROBERT E. , MINSHALL G. WAYNE , KARR JAMES R. , PERRY DAVID A. , HAUER F. RICHARD , FRISSELL CHRISTOPHER A.
Published: July 2004

Abstract: Forest ecosystems in the western United States evolved over many millennia in response to disturbances such as wildfires. Land use and management practices have altered these ecosystems, however, including fire regimes in some areas. Forest ecosystems are especially vulnerable to postfire management practices because such practices may influence forest dynamics and aquatic systems for decades to centuries. Thus, there is an increasing need to evaluate the effect of postfire treatments from the perspective of ecosystem recovery. We examined, via the published literature and our collective experience, the ecological effects of some common postfire treatments. Based on this examination, promising postfire restoration measures include retention of large trees, rehabilitation of firelines and roads, and, in some cases, planting of native species. The following practices are generally inconsistent with efforts to restore ecosystem functions after fire: seeding exotic species, livestock grazing, placement of physical structures in and near stream channels, ground‐based postfire logging, removal of large trees, and road construction. Practices that adversely affect soil integrity, persistence or recovery of native species, riparian functions, or water quality generally impede ecological recovery after fire. Although research provides a basis for evaluating the efficacy of postfire treatments, there is a continuing need to increase our understanding of the effects of such treatments within the context of societal and ecological goals for forested public lands of the western United States.
Postfire Seeding for Erosion Control: Effectiveness and Impacts on Native Plant Communities
Authors: BEYERS JAN L.
Published: July 2004

Abstract: Large, high‐severity wildfires remove vegetation cover and expose mineral soil, ofen causing erosion and runoff during postfire rain events to increase dramatically. Land‐management agencies in the United States are required to assess site conditions after wildfire and, where necessary, implement emergency watershed rehabilitation measures to help stabilize soil; control movement of water, sediment, and debris; prevent permanent impairment of ecosystem structure and function; and mitigate significant threats to human health, safety, life, property, or downstream values. One of the most common postfire treatments is broadcast seeding of grasses, usually from aircraft. Non‐native annual or perennial grasses typically are used to provide quick, temporary ground cover to hold soil in place until native plants are reestablished. Critics argue that seeded grasses compete with native vegetation and do not effectively reduce erosion. Few data exist on the effectiveness of erosion control; less than half of the studies I reviewed showed reduced sediment movement with seeding. In all vegetation types, successful growth of seeded grasses—enough to affect erosion—appears to displace native or naturalized species, including shrub and tree seedlings. Due to the competitiveness of seeded grasses, they are used to attempt suppression of noxious weeds in some postfire seeding operations. In burned sagebrush range, postfire seeding is frequently used to replace non‐native cheatgrass ( Bromus tectorum) with native or introduced bunchgrasses, with at least short‐term success. In recent years, native species and sterile cereal grains have increasingly been used for seeding. Use of aerially applied straw mulch has increased as well, with the risk of weed introduction from contaminated bales. More research on the effectiveness and ecosystem impacts of these alternatives is needed.
Fine‐Scale Diversity and Rarity Hotspots in Northern Forests
Authors: GJERDE IVAR , SÆTERSDAL MAGNE , ROLSTAD JØRUND , BLOM HANS H. , STORAUNET KEN OLAF
Published: July 2004

Abstract:  To evaluate the efficiency by which fine‐scale diversity hotspots capture threatened species in northern forests, we investigated the spatial distribution of vascular plants, bryophytes, macrolichens, and polypore fungi with 1‐ha resolution (in 0.25‐ha plots) within six approximately 2‐km2 forest landscapes in Norway. Of 1295 recorded species (118,000 records), 62 species (842 records) were on the Norwegian Red List, of which 7 species (12 records) were new to Norway. We studied the degree of clustering of different red‐listed species among plots by comparing observed co‐occurrence of red‐listed species to a null model of random co‐occurrence. Red‐listed species were moderately clustered within study areas but less so within each forest type. Clustering was similar for areas with high and low densities of red‐listed species. However, the proportion of records captured in rarity hotspots (plots with the highest number of red‐listed species) depended on both the total number of records of red‐listed species per area and the degree of clustering of species among plots. The 5% highest‐ranking rarity hotspots captured, on average, 59% of red‐listed species and 23% of all records of red‐listed species in study areas, compared with 56% and 18% captured by hotspots selected from a random distribution of species, respectively. Hotspots based on the most species‐rich plots (richness hotspots) were significantly less effective than rarity hotspots in capturing red‐listed species and their records. Based on the observed pattern of species co‐occurrence and the high proportion of area seemingly occupied by red‐listed species in mature forest, we hypothesize that 20–25% of the populations of red‐listed species may be located within rarity hotspots constituting 5% at the scale of 1 ha. We conclude that limited spatial overlap of species constitutes an important constraint on the efficiency of a fine‐scale hotspot conservation strategy, such as the “woodland key habitats” (0.1–10 ha) currently mapped and protected in northern European forests.
Levels of cardiac knowledge and cardiopulmonary resuscitation training among older people in Queensland
Authors: Johnston Trish C , Clark Michele J , Dingle Genevieve A , Sanders Emma L
Published: July 2004

Objectives: The current study was conducted to determine levels of cardiac knowledge and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training in older people in Queensland, Australia.

Methods: A telephone survey of 4490 Queensland adults examined respondents’ knowledge of coronary heart disease (CHD) risk factors, knowledge of heart attack symptoms, knowledge of the local emergency telephone number, as well as respondents’ rates and recency of training in CPR.

Results: Older participants, aged 60 years and over, were approximately one and a half times more likely than the 30–39 year‐old reference group to have limited knowledge of heart disease risk factors (OR = 1.53), and low knowledge of heart attack symptoms (OR = 1.60). Knowledge of the local emergency telephone number also decreased with age. Older participants had significantly lower rates of training in CPR, with almost three quarters (71.7%) reporting that they had never been trained. Older people who had completed CPR training were significantly less likely to have done so recently.

Conclusions: Cardiac knowledge levels and CPR training rates in older Queensland persons were lower than those found in the younger population.
Investigation of automatic teller machine banking in a sample of older adults
Authors: Darch Ulrike , Caltabiano Nerina J
Published: July 2004

Objective:To explore the relationship between demographic, user‐situational, attitudinal variables and automatic teller machine (ATM) use in an Australian sample of older adults.

Methods:Volunteers aged 60 years and over conducting their own banking filled in a self‐administered questionnaire which assessed respondents’ banking practices, attitudes towards ATMs, and demographics. Mann–Whitney U‐tests and chi‐squared tests were computed to explore group differences, and a logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the predictive value of identified variables.

Results:The sample comprised 139 respondents of which 44.6% were ATM users and 55.4% were non‐users. Group differences were found in regard to age, education, user situational and attitudinal variables. From the logistic regression, technology, perceived control and perceived user comfort were found to have an independent significant effect on ATM usage.

Conclusion:The results suggest that while age, education, attitudes and user‐situational variables are related to ATM use, only technology experience, perceived user comfort and control are determinants of ATM use among this population.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Daptomycin
Authors: Dvorchik Barry , Arbeit Robert D. , Chung Julia , Liu Susan , Knebel William , Kastrissios Helen
Published: July 2004

Data from subjects in nine phase 1 (
n
= 153) and six phase 2/3 (
n
= 129) clinical trials were combined to identify factors contributing to interindividual variability in daptomycin pharmacokinetics (PK). Over 30 covariates were considered. A two-compartment model with first-order elimination provided the best fit for data on daptomycin concentrations in plasma over time. In the final population PK model, daptomycin plasma clearance (CL) was a function of renal function, body temperature, and sex. Of these factors, renal function contributed most significantly to interindividual variability. CL varied linearly with the estimated creatinine clearance. CL among dialysis subjects was approximately one-third that of healthy subjects (0.27 versus 0.81 liter/h). CL in females was 80% that in males; however, in clinical trials, the outcome was not affected by sex and therefore this effect is not considered clinically meaningful. The relationship with body temperature should be interpreted cautiously since the analysis included only a limited number of subjects who were hyperthermic. The volume of distribution of the peripheral compartment (
V
2
) and intercompartmental clearance (
Q
) were linearly related to body weight.
V
2
increased approximately twofold in the presence of an acute infection. No factors were identified that significantly impacted
V
1
. This analysis supports the dosing of daptomycin on a milligram-per-kilogram-of-body-weight basis and suggests that modified dosing regimens are indicated for patients with severe renal disease and for those undergoing dialysis.
In Vitro Activities of ME1036 (CP5609), a Novel Parenteral Carbapenem, against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococci
Authors: Kurazono Mizuyo , Ida Takashi , Yamada Keiko , Hirai Yoko , Maruyama Takahisa , Shitara Eiki , Yonezawa Minoru
Published: July 2004

ME1036, formerly CP5609, is a novel parenteral carbapenem with a 7-acylated imidazo[5,1-
b
]thiazole-2-yl group directly attached to the carbapenem moiety of the C-2 position. The present study evaluated the in vitro activities of ME1036 against clinical isolates of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. ME1036 displayed broad activity against aerobic gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Unlike other marketed β-lactam antibiotics, ME1036 maintained excellent activity against multiple-drug-resistant gram-positive bacteria, such as methicillin-resistant staphylococci and penicillin-resistant
Streptococcus pneumoniae
(PRSP). The MICs of this compound at which 90% of isolates were inhibited were 2 μg/ml for methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA), 2 μg/ml for methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci, and 0.031 μg/ml for PRSP. In time-kill studies with six strains of MRSA, ME1036 at four times the MIC caused a time-dependent decrease in the numbers of viable MRSA cells. The activity of ME1036 against MRSA is related to its high affinity for penicillin-binding protein 2a, for which the 50% inhibitory concentration of ME1036 was approximately 300-fold lower than that of imipenem. In conclusion, ME1036 demonstrated a broad antibacterial spectrum and high levels of activity in vitro against staphylococci, including β-lactam-resistant strains.