bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HYPERSENSITIVE TO RED AND BLUE 1 and its C‐terminal regulatory function control FLOWERING LOCUS T expression
Authors: Kang Xiaojun , Zhou Yun , Sun Xiaodong , Ni Min
Published: October 2007

The red and far‐red light‐absorbing phytochromes and UV‐A/blue light‐absorbing cryptochromes regulate seedling de‐etiolation and flowering responses. The signaling steps that mediate the photoreceptor regulation on key flowering genes remain largely unknown. We report that a previously identified photomorphogenic mutant, hypersensitive to red and blue 1 (hrb1), flowered late and showed attenuated expression of FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) over both long days and short days. Transgenic plants that overexpress the full‐length HRB1, or its C‐terminal half, flowered early and accumulated more FT messages under short‐day conditions. The transgenic plants also displayed hyposensitive de‐etiolation phenotypes, and the expression of these phenotypes requires the action of PIF4. The double mutant of hrb1/cry2 showed a flowering phenotype and an FT expression pattern similar to hrb1 under long‐day conditions, suggesting that HRB1 may function downstream of cry2 under long‐day conditions. In contrast, hrb1/phyB‐9 showed a flowering phenotype and an FT expression pattern similar to phyB‐9 over both long days and short days, indicating a modulatory role of HRB1 in the flowering pathway mediated by phyB. Overexpression of HRB1 did not affect the expression of the central clock oscillators, TOC1 and CCA1. HRB1 therefore represents a signaling step that regulates FT expression downstream of red and blue light perception.
Potassium transport systems in the moss Physcomitrella patens: pphak1 plants reveal the complexity of potassium uptake
Authors: Garciadeblas Blanca , Barrero‐Gil Javier , Benito Begoña , Rodríguez‐Navarro Alonso
Published: October 2007

Potassium uptake is one of the most basic processes of plant physiology. However, a comprehensive description is lacking. At a cellular level fungi have provided a helpful but imperfect plant model, which we aim to improve using Physcomitrella patens. Blast searches in expressed sequence tag databases demonstrated that Physcomitrella expresses the same families of K+ and Na+ transport systems as flowering plants. We cloned two inward rectifier channels, PpAKT1‐2, and four HAK‐type transporters (PpHAK1‐4). In both types of transport system, phylogenetic analyses revealed that despite their high sequence conservation they could not be included in Arabidopsis or rice (Oryza sativa) clusters. Both inward rectifier channels and one HAK transporter (PpHAK1) were expressed in yeast. PpAKT1 and activated mutants of PpAKT2 and PpHAK1 showed clear functions that were similar to those of homologous systems of flowering plants. A pphak1 null mutant line of Physcomitrella failed to deplete K+ below 10 μm. Moreover, in a non‐K+‐limiting medium in which wild‐type plants grew only as protonema, pphak1‐1 plants produced leafy gametophores and contained 60% more K+. We found that Physcomitrella takes up K+ through several systems. PpHAK1 is the dominant system in plants that underwent K+ starvation for long periods but an as‐yet unidentified system, which is non‐selective for K+, Rb+, and Cs+, dominates in many other conditions. Finally, we discuss that, similar to PpHAK1, one of the functions of AtHAK5 may be to control cellular K+ content and that a non‐selective as‐yet unidentified system also exists in Arabidopsis.
Absence of the endo‐β‐1,4‐glucanases Cel1 and Cel2 reduces susceptibility to Botrytis cinerea in tomato
Authors: Flors Víctor , Leyva María de la O. , Vicedo Begonya , Finiti Ivan , Real María Dolores , García‐Agustín Pilar , Bennett Alan B. , González‐Bosch Carmen
Published: October 2007

Cel1 and Cel2 are members of the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum Mill) endo‐β‐1,4‐glucanase (EGase) family that may play a role in fruit ripening and organ abscission. This work demonstrates that Cel1 protein is present in other vegetative tissues and accumulates during leaf development. We recently reported the downregulation of both the Cel1 mRNA and protein upon fungal infection, suggesting the involvement of EGases in plant–pathogen interactions. This hypothesis was confirmed by assessing the resistance to Botrytis cinerea infection of transgenic plants expressing both genes in an antisense orientation (Anti‐Cel1, Anti‐Cel2 and Anti‐Cel1‐Cel2). The Anti‐Cel1‐Cel2 plants showed enhanced resistance to this fungal necrotroph. Microscopical analysis of infected leaves revealed that tomato plants accumulated pathogen‐inducible callose within the expanding lesion. Anti‐Cel1‐Cel2 plants presented a faster and enhanced callose accumulation against B. cinerea than wild‐type plants. The inhibitor 2‐deoxy‐d‐glucose, a callose synthesis inhibitor, showed a direct relationship between faster callose accumulation and enhanced resistance to B. cinerea. EGase activity appears to negatively modulate callose deposition. The absence of both EGase genes was associated with changes in the expression of the pathogen‐related genes PR1 and LoxD. Interestingly, Anti‐Cel1‐Cel2 plants were more susceptible to Pseudomonas syringae, displaying severe disease symptoms and enhanced bacterial growth relative to wild‐type plants. Analysis of the involvement of Cel1 and Cel2 in the susceptibility to B. cinerea in fruits was done with the ripening‐impaired mutants Never ripe (Nr) and Ripening inhibitor (rin). The data reported in this work support the idea that enzymes involved in cell wall metabolism play a role in susceptibility to pathogens.
Regulatory interaction of the Gα protein with phospholipase A2 in the plasma membrane of Eschscholzia californica
Authors: Heinze Michael , Steighardt Jörg , Gesell Andreas , Schwartze Wieland , Roos Werner
Published: October 2007

Plant heterotrimeric G‐proteins are involved in a variety of signaling pathways, though only one α and a few βγ isoforms of their subunits exist. In isolated plasma membranes of California poppy (Eschscholzia californica), the plant‐specific Gα subunit was isolated and identified immunologically and by homology of the cloned gene with that of several plants. In the same membrane, phospholipase A2 (PLA2) was activated by yeast elicitor only if GTPγS (an activator of Gα) was present. From the cholate‐solubilized membrane proteins, PLA2 was co‐precipitated together with Gα by a polyclonal antiserum raised against the recombinant Gα. In this immunoprecipitate and in the plasma membrane (but not in the Gα‐free supernatant) PLA2 was stimulated by GTPγS. Plasma membranes and immunoprecipitates obtained from antisense transformants with a low Gα content allowed no such stimulation. An antiserum raised against the C‐terminus (which in animal Gαs is located near the target coupling site) precipitated Gα without any PLA2 activity. Using non‐denaturing PAGE, complexes of solubilized plasma membrane proteins were visualized that contained Gα plus PLA2 activity and dissociated at pH 9.5. At this pH, PLA2 was no longer stimulated by GTPγS. It is concluded that a distinct fraction of the plasma membrane‐bound PLA2 exists in a detergent‐resistant complex with Gα that can be dissociated at pH 9.5. This complex allows the Gα‐mediated activation of PLA2.
Seed after‐ripening is a discrete developmental pathway associated with specific gene networks in Arabidopsis
Authors: Carrera Esther , Holman Tara , Medhurst Anne , Dietrich Daniela , Footitt Steven , Theodoulou Frederica L. , Holdsworth Michael J.
Published: October 2007

After‐ripening (AR) is a time and environment regulated process occurring in the dry seed, which determines the germination potential of seeds. Both metabolism and perception of the phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) are important in the initiation and maintenance of dormancy. However, molecular mechanisms that regulate the capacity for dormancy or germination through AR are unknown. To understand the relationship between ABA and AR, we analysed genome expression in Arabidopsis thaliana mutants defective in seed ABA synthesis (aba1‐1) or perception (abi1‐1). Even though imbibed mutant seeds showed no dormancy, they exhibited changes in global gene expression resulting from dry AR that were comparable with changes occurring in wild‐type (WT) seeds. Core gene sets were identified that were positively or negatively regulated by dry seed storage. Each set included a gene encoding repression or activation of ABA function (LPP2 and ABA1, respectively), thereby suggesting a mechanism through which dry AR may modulate subsequent germination potential in WT seeds. Application of exogenous ABA to after‐ripened WT seeds did not reimpose characteristics of freshly harvested seeds on imbibed seed gene expression patterns. It was shown that secondary dormancy states reinstate AR status‐specific gene expression patterns. A model is presented that separates the action of ABA in seed dormancy from AR and dry storage regulated gene expression. These results have major implications for the study of genetic mechanisms altered in seeds as a result of crop domestication into agriculture, and for seed behaviour during dormancy cycling in natural ecosystems.
A cascade of transcription factor DREB2A and heat stress transcription factor HsfA3 regulates the heat stress response of Arabidopsis
Authors: Schramm Franziska , Larkindale Jane , Kiehlmann Elke , Ganguli Arnab , Englich Gisela , Vierling Elizabeth , Von Koskull‐Döring Pascal
Published: October 2007

The dehydration‐responsive element binding protein (DREB)/C‐repeat binding factor (CBF) family are the classical transcriptional regulators involved in plant responses to drought, salt and cold stress. Recently it was demonstrated that DREB2A is induced by heat stress (hs) and is a regulator of the hs response of Arabidopsis. Here we provide molecular insights into the regulation and function of hs transcription factor HsfA3. Among the 21 members of the Arabidopsis Hsf family, HsfA3 is the only Hsf that is transcriptionally induced during hs by DREB2A, and HsfA3 in turn regulates the expression of Hsp‐encoding genes. This transcription factor cascade was reconstructed in transient GUS reporter assays in mesophyll protoplasts by showing that DREB2A could activate the HsfA3 promoter, whereas HsfA3 in turn was shown to be a potent activator on the promoters of Hsp genes. Direct binding to the corresponding promoters was demonstrated by electrophoretic mobility shift assays, and the involvement of HsfA3 in the hs response in vivo was shown directly by observation of reduced thermotolerance in HsfA3 mutant lines. Altogether these data demonstrate that HsfA3 is transcriptionally controlled by DREB2A and important for the establishment of thermotolerance.
Arabidopsis extra‐large G proteins (XLGs) regulate root morphogenesis
Authors: Ding Lei , Pandey Sona , Assmann Sarah M.
Published: October 2007

As in mammalian systems, heterotrimeric G proteins, composed of α, β and γ subunits, are present in plants and are involved in the regulation of development and cell signaling. Besides the sole prototypical G protein α subunit gene, GPA1, the Arabidopsis thaliana genome has three extra‐large GTP‐binding protein (XLG)‐encoding genes: XLG1 (At2g23460), XLG2 (At4g34390) and XLG3 (At1g31930). The C‐termini of the XLGs are Gα domains that are homologous to GPA1, whereas their N‐termini each contain a cysteine‐rich region and a putative nuclear localization signal (NLS). GFP fusions with each XLG confirmed nuclear localization. All three XLG genes are expressed in essentially all plant organs, with strong expression in vascular tissues, primary root meristems and lateral root primordia. Analysis of single, double and triple T‐DNA insertional mutants of the XLG genes revealed redundancy in XLG function. Dark‐grown xlg1‐1 xlg2‐1 xlg3‐1 triple mutant plants showed markedly increased primary root length compared with wild‐type plants. This phenotype was not observed in dark‐grown xlg single mutants, and was suppressed upon complementation of the xlg triple mutant with each XLG. Root cell sizes of the xlg triple mutant and root morphology were highly similar to those of wild‐type roots, suggesting that XLGs may regulate cell proliferation. Dark‐grown roots of the xlg triple mutants also showed altered sensitivity to sugars, ABA hyposensitivity and ethylene hypersensitivity, whereas seed germination in xlg triple mutants was hypersensitive to osmotic stress and ABA. As plant‐specific proteins, regulatory mechanisms of XLGs may differ from those of conventional Gαs.
Arabidopsis endo‐1,4‐β‐glucanases are involved in the formation of root syncytia induced by Heterodera schachtii
Authors: Wieczorek Krzysztof , Hofmann Julia , Blöchl Andreas , Szakasits Dagmar , Bohlmann Holger , Grundler Florian M. W.
Published: October 2007

Cyst nematodes induce root syncytia with specific features such as hypertrophy, increased metabolic activity and fusion with adjacent cells. Cell walls of the syncytia undergo massive changes such as thickening, local dissolution and formation of ingrowths. Cell wall degrading and modifying proteins are apparently involved in syncytium formation but detailed knowledge of this is still limited. Therefore, we studied the regulation and function of the entire Arabidopsis endo‐1,4‐β‐glucanase gene family in syncytia induced by Heterodera schachtii. Endo‐1,4‐β‐glucanases hydrolyze the 1,4‐β‐glucosidic linkages between glucose residues. Using semi‐quantitative and quantitative approaches we identified seven genes that are upregulated in syncytia. Two of these genes, coding for secreted AtCel2 and membrane‐bound KOR3, are shoot‐specific but show high expression in syncytia at different developmental stages. In silico analysis of the promoter regions of both genes compared with other genes with modified regulation in nematode feeding sites did not reveal specific cis‐acting elements that could be related to specific transcription in syncytia. However, motifs responsive to sugar and different plant hormones were identified. Accordingly, treatments with sucrose, gibberellic acid and NAA induced upregulation of AtCel2, whereas ABA triggered downregulation of both AtCel2 and KOR3 in roots. As AtCel2 is related to degradation of the cell wall matrix, we analysed the hemicellulose content in syncytia. The measured values resembled the expression pattern of AtCel2. A distinctly reduced number of females developed in cel2 and kor3 T‐DNA mutants, and we therefore conclude that endo‐1,4‐β‐glucanases play an important role in the formation and function of syncytia.
Staging of necrotizing fasciitis based on the evolving cutaneous features
Authors: Wang Yi‐Shi , Wong Chin‐Ho , Tay Yong‐Kwang
Published: October 2007

Background  Necrotizing fasciitis is a severe soft‐tissue infection characterized by a fulminant course and high mortality. Early recognition is difficult as the disease is often clinically indistinguishable from cellulitis and other soft‐tissue infections early in its evolution. Our aim was to study the manifestations of the cutaneous signs of necrotizing fasciitis as the disease evolves.

Methods  This was a retrospective study on patients with necrotizing fasciitis at a single institution. Their charts were reviewed to document the daily cutaneous changes from the time of presentation (day 0) through to day 4 from presentation.

Results  Twenty‐two patients were identified. At initial assessment (day 0), almost all patients presented with erythema, tenderness, warm skin, and swelling. Blistering occurred in 41% of patients at presentation whereas late signs such as skin crepitus, necrosis, and anesthesia were infrequently seen (0–5%). As time elapsed, more patients had blistering (77% had blisters at day 4) and eventually the late signs of necrotizing fasciitis characterized by skin crepitus, necrosis, and anesthesia (9–36%) were seen. A clinical staging system was developed based on our observations. Stage migration from early to late stage necrotizing fasciitis was evident with majority of patients in stage 1 at day 0 (59%), whereas by day 4, majority had developed into stage 3 (68%).

Conclusion  This study has demonstrated the continuum of cutaneous manifestations as necrotizing fasciitis evolves. This will help in the early recognition and intervention of this devastating condition.
Skin findings in internal malignant diseases
Authors: Kılıç Arzu , Gül Ülker , Soylu Seçil
Published: October 2007

Purpose  A skin finding may be an indicator of internal malignant diseases. In this report, we investigated the skin findings of the cases who have had internal malignancy within the last 1 month.

Patients and methods  Seven hundred cases who were diagnosed as internal malignancy and who did not have any treatment for the malignancy were enrolled in our study between February 2002 and September 2003. A form was completed for all of the cases, including name, surname, and the carcinoma type. All cases were examined in detail, and the observed skin findings or dermatosis was recorded.

Results  The most frequent skin findings among the cases were tinea pedis/onychomycosis, followed by xerosis and pruritus. The skin findings in terms of frequency were determined mostly in hematological malignancies (68.96%).

Conclusion  We would like to emphasize that the skin is an indicator of the functions of internal organs and their disorders.
Microbial stimulation as an aetiologic factor in atopic disease
Authors: Holt P. G. , Macaubas C. , Prescott S. L. , Sly P. D.
Published: October 2007

Epidemiologic evidence from various sources suggests that exposure to microbial stimuli during early childhood can influence the induction and expression of atopic diseases, particularly in the respiratory tract. Moreover, these effects may have long‐lasting consequences in relation to expression of the atopic phenotype in adulthood. This review discusses key aspects of this evidence in relation to the underlying mechanisms which regulate T‐helper (Th)‐cell function; in particular, the generation of Th‐memory cells responsive to inhalant allergens.
Choosing the right outcomes
Authors: Silverman M.
Published: October 2007

Outcome measures are used to monitor the effects of interventions in clinical practice or in formal clinical trials. They may also be used to assess changes within populations either spontaneously or as a result of public‐health measures. They are used to monitor the course of illness as part of a management plan or, for larger groups, to identify changes brought about, for instance, by migration or immunization. The choice of outcome measure depends on the age of the child, the complexity of the outcome (for instance, whether its application is to individuals or populations), and the time scale over which it is necessary to detect changes in outcome. The most commonly used outcome measures are clinical symptoms, which are often compiled into scoring systems. Surprisingly, these are often the least wellvalidated measures of outcome. Physiologic measures, although well validated, are difficult to apply to infants and pre‐school children. The role of inflammatory markers is currently limited to research rather than clinical practice. Other outcome measures such as quality of life, impact‐of‐asthma instruments, and measures to determine the health‐economic aspects of asthma are poorly developed in childhood. The right outcome depends on the question being asked, the age of the subjects, and the time scale and complexity over which measurement is required.
Asthma: an inflammatory mediator soup
Authors: Björnsdottir U. S. , Cypcar D. M.
Published: October 2007

Reversible or partially reversible airway obstruction, inflammation, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness to various stimuli are the defining characteristics of asthma. Airway obstruction in asthma is a compiex event that is due to bronchospasm, inflammation, and mucus formation. Inflammation has assumed a more central role in the pathogenesis of the disease, as it contributes not only to airflow obstruction, but also to bronchial hyperresponsiveness. The inciting trigger, or inhaled allergen, in asthma induces the activation of mast cells and macrophages with the subsequent release of several proinflammatory mediators, including leukotrienes, chemotactic factors, and cytokines. Antigen processed by macrophages is presented to undifferentiated T helper cells, inducing differentiation to the Th2 phenotype, with the subsequent release of IL‐4 and IL‐5, causing IgE synthesis and eosinophil infiltration, respectively. Macrophage‐derived cytokines, such as IL‐1, TNF‐α, and IFN‐γ, activate endothelial cells, upregulating the expression of adhesion molecules such as ICAM‐1 and VCAM‐1, which permit egression of leukocytes from the vasculature to the airway mucosa. Several inflammatory cells, such as eosinophils, mast cells, and macrophages, not only cause airway damage, but also synthesize cytokines that perpetuate the inflammatory process. This complex interplay of inflammatory cells and mediators causes the classic histopathophysiologic features in the airways of both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals with asthma, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and antiinflammatory treatment.
How do we monitor asthma control?
Authors: Sont J. K.
Published: October 2007

The present consensus on asthma management includes avoidance of triggers, education, regular follow‐up, and an action plan that relies on symptoms and lung function measurements for the monitoring of disease severity. Inclusion of objective measurements for monitoring seems to be important because patients and physicians may not always recognize asthma symptoms or their severity. However, the additional value of monitoring peak flow and symptoms in guiding asthma therapy has not been well established. Furthermore, it can be questioned whether a treatment strategy which is solely based on optimizing symptoms and lung function leads to optimal control of asthma in each individual patient, since airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and airways inflammation may persist. The chronicity of such abnormalities may lead to airways remodelling, thereby worsening the long‐term outcome of asthma. It has been shown that AHR provides prognostic information on asthma control, because it can serve as a valuable noninvasive surrogate marker of airways inflammation when added to the guides of asthma therapy. A limited increase in dose of inhaled steroids, instead of applying an increased dose indiscriminately, can be successfully tailored to the needs of the individual patient based on the degree of AHR. Such a strategy leads to both a better clinical outcome and a better histologic outcome. The present worldwide effort is to find alternative markers of airways inflammation in asthma that can be easily implemented in routine practice. In the near future, longitudinal studies will determine which parameter is potentially most useful in guiding asthma management.
In vitro, ex vivo, in vivo veritas
Authors: Borgström L.
Published: October 2007

In vitro assessments of inhaler performance are important in product development and quality control, but are not, as such, good predictors of performance in vivo. It is, however, possible to modify in vitro techniques so that they more closely resemble the in vivo situation. Measurements of fine‐particle dose (defined as the amount of drug with an aerodynamic diameter less than 5 μm) by cascade impactor have shown that the measured fine‐particle dose in vitro is highly dependent on the geometry of the inlet to the impactor, the fine‐particle dose being considerably lower when the cast of a human throat (an “anatomical throat”) is used than when a standard glass inlet is used. This difference is, however, less with a dry‐powder inhaler such as Turbuhaler® than with a pressurized metered‐dose inhaler (pMDI). Furthermore, there is a good correlation between fine‐particle dose measured in vitro and in vivo lung deposition, provided that an anatomically correct inlet is used for the in vitro determination. Studies in children have shown that the degree of lung deposition of budesonide, delivered via Turbuhaler, is of the same order of size as the in vitro fine‐particle dose. No comparable data are available for pMDIs; however, since children are smaller than adults, it is likely that differences in lung deposition between Turbuhaler and pMDIs are probably greater in children than in adults.
Future options for aerosol delivery to children
Authors: Bisgaard H.
Published: October 2007

There is an increasing awareness of the importance of reliable aerosol delivery, with emphasis on the dose delivered to the lungs, optimal clinical control, cost‐effectiveness, and safety in children. Dose prescription should relate to the expected lung dose rather than the factory‐dispensed dose, as at present. The device determines the lung dose. Clearly, therefore, the device should be considered an integral part of the prescription. Drug approval processes should clearly specify the device, and discourage the use of other devices. This would rationalize the choice of devices. Important new insights into factors essential for drug delivery to the airways have been acquired in recent years. Nasal inhalation increases systemic bioavailability, reduces lung dose, and adds to its variability; hence, face masks to prevent nasal breathing have been developed. Similarly, dead space in the inspiratory line causes a proportional reduction in lung dose; hence, attention should be paid to reducing such dead space. Plastics in spacers cause a rapid loss of drug due to electrostatic attraction of the aerosol. The residence time of the aerosol, i. e., the time available for inhalation, is increased in nonelectrostatic spacers, allowing less compliant children enough time to obtain a full dose. Eliminating the electrostatic charge can change the lung dose by several times; hence, nonelectrostatic materials should be used in future spacer devices. Compliance is the biggest problem in drug delivery to children. The inhaler design process should be reversed, adapting technology to the child. Interactive microchip technology should provide intelligent devices that react to correct handling and breathing maneuvers. An intelligent nebulizer has been developed that adapts nebulization to the child's breathing pattern, nebulizing only during inhalation and avoiding loss of aerosol during exhalation. An automatic device (AirPacR) has been developed that transforms a dry‐powder inhaler, TurbuhalerR, into a spacer. In addition to the general advantages of spacer treatment, this device offers the advantage of a drug aerosol delivered without use of propellents or additives. The mechanical actuation ensures highly repeatable drug delivery. Finally, a nonelectrostatic, tower‐shaped spacer provides a stable aerosol, which remains airborne for a prolonged period. The spacer is equipped with a face mask that prevents nasal breathing. Such features should improve our ability to treat young children with inhaled drug aerosols.
The nose, the lung and the bone marrow in allergic inflammation
Authors: Denburg J.
Published: October 2007

The nose, the lung and the bone marrow in allergic inflammation
Peptide Fraction Inhibiting Plant Pathogen Growth Predominated in Cell Wall Extracts from Young Plants or in Soluble Cell Fraction from Expanded leaves from Eggplants
Authors: Almeida H. O. , Mattos E. C. , Barbosa M. O. , Teixeira F. R. , Magalhães R. D. M. , Romeiro R. S. , Fontes E. P. B. , Baracat‐Pereira M. C.
Published: October 2007

Some varieties of eggplant are little susceptible to some plant pathogens, and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) could be part of this innate‐defence mechanism. This work aimed to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of peptide‐enriched fractions from cell wall extracts (CWE) and soluble extracts (SE) from young plants and fully expanded leaves of eggplants against Ralstonia solanacearum and Clavibacter michiganensis ssp. michiganensis growth. The results indicated that the highest inhibition level of the multiplication of both bacteria was obtained with CWE from 5‐cm‐height plants, while SE promoted the highest inhibition rate when 15‐cm‐height plants or fully expanded leaves were analysed. These results suggest that young plants exhibit an innate‐defence mechanism, very likely involving cell wall AMPs action to minimize plant antimicrobial invasion, while expanded leaves could produce soluble defence molecules. The inhibition rate was dependent for the extract concentration and the extracts were more effective against the growth of Gram‐negative bacteria.
Microbial Fungicides in the Control of Plant Diseases
Authors: Kim Beom Seok , Hwang Byung Kook
Published: October 2007

As environmental and commercial requirements for new fungicides are increasingly demanding, antifungal compounds of microbial origin attract tremendous interest as a starting point in the development of environmentally sound agricultural fungicides. As seen in fenpiclonil, fludioxonil and synthetic derivatives of the strobilurins such as azoxystrobin and krexosim‐methyl, this approach for the development of microbial fungicides has proven to be a promising and effective strategy for developing new fungicides. As a result, microbial metabolites face a revival as lead compounds. Recently, numerous antifungal compounds were discovered from diverse microbial sources using traditional activity‐based screening techniques. These microbial compounds showed potent control efficacy against various plant diseases, including chronic diseases which are difficult to control with conventional synthetic fungicides. Advances in screening systems directed to specific targets of fungal metabolism have increased the opportunities to discover novel antifungal agents with selectivity over non‐target organisms. Microbial metabolites have also been exploited as a source for non‐fungicidal disease control agents that do not inhibit vegetative hyphal growth, but rather interfere specifically with the infection process of pathogenic fungi. The specificity of microbial fungicides is a highly preferred characteristic in terms of impacting the environment, where it is closely related to the occurrence of fungicide resistance. The most recently developed fungicides from microbial metabolites, the strobilurins, provide a cue for the high risk of resistance development of site‐specific fungicides.
Circadian Variation of the Ca2+–PTH Curve during Hypercalcaemia in Dogs
Authors: Domingo V. , López I. , Mendoza F. J. , Rodríguez M. , Aguilera‐Tejero E. , Estepa J. C.
Published: October 2007

To test the hypothesis that the parathyroid hormone (PTH) response to hypercalcaemia is influenced by circadian rhythms, the Ca2+–PTH curve was studied in six dogs after infusion of CaCl2(0.66 mEq/kg/h) at daytime (09:00 h) and at night‐time (21:00 h). Plasma Ca2+and PTH values measured before or after CaCl2infusion were not different at day and at night. However, in the recovery from hypercalcaemia, PTH concentrations were significantly lower (P < 0.05) at 21:00 h (23 ± 7.5 pg/ml at Ca2+ = 1.30 mm) than at 09:00 h (38.8 ± 6.9 pg/ml at Ca2+ = 1.30 mm). In addition, the Ca2+–PTH curve showed hysteresis at daytime (for the same Ca2+concentration, PTH values were higher during recovery than during induction of hypercalcaemia) but not at night‐time (PTH values were lower during recovery than during induction of hypercalcaemia). In conclusion, a circadian variation in the PTH secretory pattern during recovery from hypercalcaemia has been identified in dogs.
Development‐related Expression of KGF and FGF‐10 mRNA in the Canine Prostate Gland
Authors: Shidaifat F.
Published: October 2007

Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) and fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF‐10) are stromal‐derived growth factors that interact with their epithelial FGFR2 receptors to mediate stromal‐‐epithelial cell interaction within the prostate gland. This study was conducted to compare the development‐related mRNA expression of KGF, FGF‐10 and their receptor FGFR2 in immature and mature canine prostate glands. In addition, their expression levels were correlated with the differentiation of stromal cells using vimentin as a mesenchymal cell marker. Quantitative mRNA expression was assessed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and the results were expressed as relative mRNA expression of the target gene, which was normalized to the GAPDH reference gene. mRNA analysis revealed a differential expression of KGF, FGF‐10 and FGFR2 receptor by the prostate glands of immature and mature dogs. The results showed a 7.3‐ and 9‐fold decrease in mRNA expression of KGF and FGF‐10 by mature and immature prostate glands respectively. However, there was no significant change in FGFR2 receptor mRNA expression by mature or immature prostate glands. This downregulation of KGF and FGF‐10 expression was associated with a 15‐fold decrease in vimentin expression. These results indicate that KGF and FGF‐10 expression varied according to the differentiation status of stromal cells and might reflect differential developmental requirements of immature and mature canine prostate glands.
Spatial heterogeneity of epibenthos on artificial reefs: fouling communities in the early stages of colonization on an East Australian shipwreck
Authors: Walker Simon J. , Schlacher Thomas A. , Schlacher‐Hoenlinger Monika A.
Published: October 2007

Artificial reefs are spatially complex habitats and serve as good model systems to study patterns of community succession and the response of epibiota to environmental clines over small spatial scales. Here, we quantified spatial heterogeneity in community composition and diversity of fouling communities across a number of environmental gradients that included water depth, surface orientation of habitats, exposure to currents, and shelter. Assemblage structure was quantified by spatially replicated photo transects on a recently scuttled large navy ship off the East Australian coast, lying in 27 m of water. A rich assemblage of epifauna had colonized the wreck within a year, dominated by barnacles, sponges and bryozoans. Community structure varied significantly over small spatial scales of meters to tens of meters. Depth, surface orientation and exposure were the major environmental drivers. Assemblages were substantially less diverse and abundant on the deepest (23 m near the seafloor) part of the hull with residual antifouling paint, on sheltered surfaces inside the wreck, and on the sediment‐laden horizontal surfaces. Overall, the wrecks’ habitat complexity corresponds with small‐scale heterogeneity in the fouling communities. This study supports the notion that wrecks enhance local diversity and biomass within the habitat mosaic of their location, and habitat complexity may be an important mechanism for this, as demonstrated by the large spatial variability in the assemblages documented here.
Differentiation of metastatic follicular thyroid cancer from hepatocellular carcinoma using Hep Par 1
Authors: Mullin Emma J , Metcalfe Matthew S , Maddern Guy J
Published: October 2007

Hepatocellular carcinoma usually arises in a cirrhotic liver. Multiple hepatic nodules in a non‐cirrhotic liver are more likely to be metastatic. The primary focus commonly arises from the gastrointestinal tract, breast or lung, but in the absence of these a primary liver pathology must be considered. The case is reported of a middle‐aged woman presenting with multiple nodules on computed tomography with no clinically apparent primary for whom results of initial diagnostic investigations were potentially misleading.
Physical activity might not be the protective factor for health risk behaviours and psychopathological symptoms in adolescents
Authors: Tao Fang B , Xu Min L , Kim Soon D , Sun Ying , Su Pu Y , Huang Kun
Published: October 2007

Aim:  This study aims to examine the effect of physical activity (PA) intensity on tobacco or alcohol abuse, suicide behaviours and psychopathological symptoms in junior and senior high school students in China.

Methods:  A total of 5453 students from nine middle schools participated in a self‐administered anonymous survey to report their frequency of moderate and vigorous PA at a normal learning week. Tobacco or alcohol use in the past 30 days, suicide behaviours during the past 12 months were asked. The Symptoms Checklist 90 was used to assess general mental problem and nine special psychopathological symptoms. The Rosenberg's Self‐esteem Scale and School Life Satisfaction Rating Questionnaire for Adolescent were selected to rate the respondents' self‐esteem and school life satisfaction.

Results:  Percentage of high‐, low–moderate‐ and very‐low‐intensity PA was 22.0%, 37.0% and 41.0%, respectively. By using multivariable multinomial logistic regression, it was indicated that low–moderate‐intensity PA was a protective factor of depression (odds ratio (OR) was 0.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) was 0.40–0.91) and psychotic symptoms (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.31–0.93), while high‐intensity PA was a risk factor of binge drinking (OR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.29–2.54), suicide ideation (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.04–1.54), general psychological disorders (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.11–1.84), and hostile symptoms (OR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.03–2.07).

Conclusion:  Different intensity PA in adolescents had different association with risk health behaviours and psychopathological symptoms. The reasons are worth further researching.
Transitional cell carcinoma in the paediatric population: Be aware of unusual aetiologies
Authors: Dowling Caroline R , Reddihough Dinah , Smith Phillipa , Webb Nathalie , McNeill Richard , Clouston David
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  This is a case report of a 12 year old girl who presented with a rare condition in paediatrics, transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. It is important because it is readily treated by endoscopic means if diagnosed early. Potential aetiologies for this unusual condition are explored.
Precocious puberty in Turner syndrome
Authors: Sabin Matthew A , Zacharin Margaret R
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  Turner syndrome (TS) affects approximately 1 in 2000 liveborn girls. It is a common cause of short stature and is often, but not universally, associated with characteristic dysmorphic features and ovarian dysgenesis. Genotype/phenotype correlation in TS is generally poor and girls with TS may occasionally have normal functioning ovarian tissue, with approximately 30–40% entering puberty, 4% achieving menarche and 1% being fertile. In this report, we describe a girl with mosaic TS who unusually experienced spontaneous precocious puberty with associated accelerated longitudinal growth during mid childhood. This case acts as a useful clinical vignette with which to highlight important aspects of diagnosis and treatment in children with TS, particularly in relation to future growth potential and issues relating to fertility.
Increased expression of soluble form of vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 aggravates autoimmune arthritis in MRL‐Faslpr mice
Authors: Oishi Hisashi , Mizuki Shinichi , Terada Miho , Kudo Megumi , Araki Kimi , Araki Masatake , Nose Masato , Takahashi Satoru
Published: October 2007

Vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1, CD106) is important in leukocyte trafficking and its increased expression is associated with a number of chronic inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A soluble form of VCAM‐1 (sVCAM‐1) is generated by shedding of the membrane‐bound molecule. The concentration of sVCAM‐1 is increased in the sera of RA patients, but its pathological role has not been elucidated. The effect of sVCAM‐1 relative to protection or aggravation of disease on the development of spontaneous arthritis was examined in an animal model of RA, namely MRL‐Faslpr mice (which display a disease resembling human RA), by generation of sVCAM‐1 transgenic MRL‐Faslpr mice. Transgenic MRL‐Faslpr mice that expressed sVCAM‐1 had higher incidence and increased severity of arthritis associated with higher levels of serum IgG rheumatoid factor compared with non‐transgenic MRL‐Faslpr mice. These results suggest that sVCAM‐1 plays an arthritogenic role in the development of inflammatory arthritis in MRL‐Faslpr mice and may present an important target for therapeutic strategy of RA.
Expression of ADAMTS4 (aggrecanase‐1) in human osteoarthritic cartilage
Authors: Naito Satoko , Shiomi Takayuki , Okada Aiko , Kimura Tokuhiro , Chijiiwa Miyuki , Fujita Yoshinari , Yatabe Taku , Komiya Koichiro , Enomoto Hiroyuki , Fujikawa Kyosuke , Okada Yasunori
Published: October 2007

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS)1, 4, 5, 8, 9 and 15, members of the ADAMTS gene family, have the ability to degrade a major cartilage proteoglycan, aggrecan, at the specific sites, and thus are called ‘aggrecanases’. The expression of these ADAMTS species was examined in human osteoarthritic articular cartilage on reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. The results demonstrated the predominant expression of ADAMTS4 in osteoarthritic cartilage, while ADAMTS5 was constitutively expressed in osteoarthritic and normal cartilage. ADAMTS9 was expressed mainly in normal cartilage, whereas no or negligible expression of ADAMTS1, 8 and 15 was observed in either osteoarthritic or normal cartilage. In situ hybridization for ADAMTS4 indicated that chondrocytes in osteoarthritic cartilage expressed the mRNA. Two monoclonal antibodies to ADAMTS4 were developed, and immunolocalized ADAMTS4 to chondrocytes in the proteoglycan‐depleted zones of osteoarthritic cartilage, showing a direct correlation with the Mankin scores. Immunoblotting indicated a major protein band of 58 kDa in the chondrocyte culture media and osteoarthritic cartilage tissue homogenates. These data demonstrate that among the six ADAMTS species, ADAMTS4 is mainly expressed in an active form in osteoarthritic cartilage, and suggest that ADAMTS4 may play an important role in the degradation of aggrecan in human osteoarthritic cartilage.
Insecticide resistance in Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) collected from horticulture and cotton in Turkey
Authors: Dağlı Fatih , Tunç İrfan
Published: October 2007

Abstract  The sensitivity of three reference strains of the western flower thrips Frankliniella occidentalis from Australia, Israel and Turkey was evaluated and their response did not differ significantly and so they are considered typical of susceptible F. occidentalis. Field strains of F. occidentalis from Antalya, Turkey were tested for resistance against five classes of insecticide during the years 2001–2003. Difference in the field strains response to abamectin, endosulfan, malathion and methomyl was low (<3.0‐fold) and in many cases not significant. However, all strains were likely resistant to cypermethrin (1.6‐ to 12.2‐fold at LC50 (lethal concentration)). The established agricultural practices and ecosystem patterns in the Antalya province are assumed to contribute to delay in insecticide resistance in F. occidentalis.
Floating row covers and pyriproxyfen help control silverleaf whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) Biotype B (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) in zucchini
Authors: Qureshi Mohammad S , Midmore David J , Syeda Shamsa S , Playford Christina L
Published: October 2007

Abstract  In zucchini, the use of row covers until flowering and the insect growth regulator (IGR) pyriproxyfen are effective methods of reducing the number of insects, especially silverleaf whitefly (Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) Biotype B), on plants. We compared floating row covers (FRCs) up until flowering with silverleaf whitefly (SLW) introduced (FRC + SLW), or not introduced (FRC‐only), or with introduction of SLW in open plots (SLW‐only), or with introduction of SLW in open plots with IGR (SLW + IGR). FRC increased temperature and humidity compared with the uncovered treatments. Average fruit weight was less (P < 0.01) for the FRC + SLW treatment compared with the other treatments and the percentage of marketable fruit was less for the FRC + SLW than for the other three treatments. This result indicates that the use of either row covers or IGR controls whiteflies, reduces fruit damage and increases the size, weight, and quality of fruit, and may also control other sap‐sucking insects. However, if SLW are already present on plants, the use of FRC may reduce predation and favour build up of SLW. Thus, FRC and IGR, if used judiciously, may provide an effective alternative to broad‐spectrum pesticides in small‐scale cucurbit production.
The behaviour of scribbly gum moth larvae Ogmograptis sp. Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Bucculatricidae) in the Australian Capital Territory
Authors: Cooke Julia , Edwards Ted
Published: October 2007

Abstract  Scribbles, the damage caused by mining larvae of the moth Ogmograptis sp. (Bucculatricidae), are a common sight on the trunks of many Eucalyptus species in eastern Australia. They provide a record of larval behaviour that can be easily measured when the trees shed outer bark layers. Measurements were made of scribbles on three species of eucalypt (Eucalyptus racemosa ssp. rossii, E. pauciflora and E. delegatensis) in the Australian Capital Territory. Scribble density varied between tree species and study sites but was consistently higher on the southern and eastern aspects of tree trunks. Some characteristics of mining behaviour, such as initial mining direction, were found to be random, but others including mine length and number of direction changes follow distinct patterns but differ between eucalypt species. It is likely that there is more than one species of Ogmograptis Meyrick as currently described (O. scribula Meyrick, from E. pauciflora) and each eucalypt species may be host to a different species of Ogmograptis.
A new species of Trisyntopa Lower (Lepidoptera: Oecophoridae) associated with the nests of the hooded parrot (Psephotus dissimilis, Psittacidae) in the Northern Territory
Authors: Edwards Edward D , Cooney Stuart J N , Olsen Penny D , Garnett Stephen T
Published: October 2007

Abstract  Trisyntopa neossophila sp. n. (Lepidoptera: Oecophoridae), reared from the nest of the hooded parrot (Psephotus dissimilis Collett), is described using morphological characters. Aspects of its biology are reported and similarities to the biology of Trisyntopa scatophaga (White) found in the nests of the golden‐shouldered parrot (Psephotus chrysopterygius Gould) are discussed and questions formulated to suggest further work on the parrot–moth relationship. The possibility that a moth was associated with the extinct paradise parrot (Psephotus pulcherrimus (Gould)) is considered in the light of the phylogenetic relationships between the parrots.
Distribution and habitats of mosquito larvae in the Kingdom of Tonga
Authors: Harding Jon S , Brown Culum , Jones Felicity , Taylor Russell
Published: October 2007

Abstract  Mosquitoes are a significant pest and human health issue in the Kingdom of Tonga. The occurrence of species and habitats used by mosquito larvae were investigated to determine the potential for control through larval habitat management. Forty‐two sites, including 22 villages and 20 farm plantations on the six islands of Tongatapu, Pangaimotu, Vava'u, Pangaimotu (Vava'u group), ‘Utungake and Nuku, were surveyed in April 2006. A total of eight mosquito species were collected: Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus), Ae. horrescens (Edwards), Ae. nocturnus (Theobold), Ae. tongae (Edwards), Culex albinervis (Edwards), Cx. annulirostris (Skuse), Cx. quinquefasciatus (Say) and Cx. sitiens (Wiedemann). Several species were widespread, particularly Ae. aegypti and Ae. nocturnus on the main island of Tongatapu, whereas Ae. aegypti dominated sites on islands of the Vava’u group. Comparative sampling of 17 village and 17 rural sites showed that larval habitat was more abundant in towns than in rural areas. Larvae were found in a wide range of habitats but were particularly abundant in artificial water bodies (e.g. disused concrete water tanks, 44‐gallon drums and used car tyres). In rural sites, habitats were generally sparse except in rain‐filled branch stems of giant taro plants. Mosquito populations in artificial habitats could be markedly reduced by seeding disused water tanks with aquatic predators already present in Tonga, using mesh‐net covers over 44‐gallon drums, and drilling holes in used car tyres.