bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytogenetic study of Helianthus laevigatus and its F1 and BC1F1 hybrids with cultivated sunflower, Helianthus annuus
Authors: Atlagić J. , Š Korić D.
Published: March 2003

Although the wild sunflower species Helianthus laevigatus has not been extensively studied it may be considered for sunflower breeding as a potential source of desirable genes for Sclerotinia stalk rot resistance and high contents of proteins and linoleic acid in the seed.

A set of six H. laevigatus populations was crossed to cultivated sun~ower lines and produced nine F1 (2‐14 plants) and 66 BC1F1 hybrid combinations (1‐13 plants). Male sterility occurred in F1 and BC1F1 hybrid combinations and pollen viability was lower in the progenies than in the parents (51.6‐77.2%in F1 and in F1 and 4.8‐34.0% in BC1F1). Meiosis was normal in the H. laevigatus populations It was found that this tetraploid species also occurred in a hexaploid form Numerous irregularities were observed in the meiosis of the F1 interspecific hybrids During diakinesis, quadrivalents and hexavalents were recorded in addition to bivalents Dislocated chromosomes and chromosome bridges were present in the other phases The chromosome number in F1 was 68 (tetraploid). Irregularities in chromosome pairing were observed in the interspecific hybrids at BC1F1. There were many univalents, and trivalents quadrivalents and hexavalents were also present The chromosome number in the BC1F1 generation ranged from 34 to 60. The occurrence of meiotic irregularities in the F1 and BC1F1 interspecific hybrids indicates that H. laevigatus and the cultivated sunflower differ in genome constitution.
Race identification in powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca fuliginea) on melon (Cucumis melo) in Japan
Authors: Hosoya K. , Narisawa K. , Pitrat M. , Ezura H.
Published: March 2003

Powdery mildew fungi isolated from single lesions on leaves of susceptible melon genotypes during semi‐forcing and late‐raising cultivation in Japan were tested. All 80 of the isolated strains were identified as Sphaerotheca fuliginea. The dominant fungus races found during semiforcing cultivation were race 5 in March (100%) and race 1 in May (100%), and race 1 (80%) during late‐raising cultivation. Although the frequencies were quite low (13% in late August, but no isolation earlier in the season), two new races of S. fuliginea, which could not be identified by the differential genotypes, appeared during late‐raising cultivation. These results suggest that the resistance gene to races 1 and 5 of S. fuliginea should be introduced into the breeding materials in Japan.
Culture of embryos and shoot tips for chromosome doubling in Lolium perenne and sterile hybrids between Lolium and Festuca
Authors: Pašakinskiene I.
Published: March 2003

An improved method is reported for polyploid induction in Lolium (ryegrass), and in sterile F1 hybrids between Lolium and Festuca (fescue). Two factors greatly increased the survival rate of colchicine‐treated embryos of Lolium perenne (perennial ryegrass) germinated and cultured in vitro (1) a high concentration of sucrose (100 g/1) in the germination medium and (1), maintenance at a low temperature of 10°C for 2 weeks after treatment. The maximum success rate for chromosome doubling among survivors of perennial ryegrass was 79.1%, and for L. perenne×Festuca arundinacea F1 hybrid embryos it exceeded 40%. The same doubling treatment also works with shoot tip culture in non‐ flowering genotypes obtained by anther culture of L. multiflorum×F. arundinacea hybrids.
Heritability estimates for winter hardiness in lentil under natural and controlled conditions
Authors: Ali A. , Johnson D. L.
Published: March 2003

Heritability analysis for cold tolerance in lentil was conducted using parental, F2 and F3 populations at two locations in Balochistan, Pakistan and one controlled environment in Fort Collins, Colorado, USA. Populations of parental and F2 families were grown over 2 years (1991‐92 and 1992‐93) at Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan. In 1992‐93, parental and F3 families were studied at Quetta, and Kalat, Balochistan, Pakistan. Evaluation for normality using non‐transformed and log‐transformed data failed. Attempts to use analysis of variance were then abandoned in favour of parent‐offspring regression for narrow‐sense heritability. Estimates of narrow‐sense heritability ranged from 0.31±0.06 to 0.71 ± 0.06 under field conditions. Under controlled conditions, the estimated heritability was maximized at 1.00 ± 0.17 using 6‐ to 8‐week‐old lentils. Significant transgressive segregants were found in five of the six populations in the F3 generation. Transgressive segregants appeared in the controlled F3 generation but were not observed in field environments. This indicates that cold tolerance is under additive gene control and is environmentally sensitive in gene expression.
Genetic control of crossability of triticale with rye
Authors: Guedes‐Pinto H. , Lima‐Brito J. , Ribeiro‐Carvalho C. , Gustafson J. P. , Qualset C. O.
Published: March 2003

Limited genetic knowledge is available regarding crossability between hexaploid triticale (2n= 6x= 42, 21″, AABBRR, amphiploid Triticum turgidum L.‐Secale cereale L.) and rye (2n= 14, 7″, RR). Our objectives were to determine (1) the crossability between triticales and rye and (2) the inheritance of crossability between F2 progeny from intertriticale crosses and rye. First, ‘8F/Corgo’, a hexaploid triticale, was crossed as a female with two landrace ryes, ‘Gimonde’ and, ‘Vila Pouca’ and two derived north European cultivars, ‘Pluto’ and ‘Breno’. These crosses produced 21.7, 20.9, 5.9, and 5.6%, seed‐set or crossability, respectively, showing that the landrace ryes produced higher seed‐set than the cultivars. Second, ‘Gimonde’ rye was crossed as a male with four triticales for 3 years. The control cross, ‘Chinese Spring’ wheat × rye, produced 80‐90% seed‐set. Of the four triticales, ‘Beagle’ produced 35.7‐56.8% seed‐set. The other three triticales produced less than 20% seed‐set, showing that the triticales differ in crossability with ‘Gimonde’ rye. Third, six FiS from intertriticale crosses (‘8F/Corgo’×‘Beagle’, ‘Beagle’×‘Cachirulo’, ‘Lasko’×‘Beagle’, ‘8F/Corgo’×‘Cachirulo’, ‘Lasko’×‘Cachirulo’, ‘Lasko’×‘8F/Corgo’) were crossed to ‘Gimonde’ rye. Results indicated that lower crossability trait was partially dominant in the two F1S from crosses involving ‘Beagle’(high crossability) with‘8F/Corgo’ and ‘Cachirulo’(low crossability) and completely dominant in the ‘Beagle’×‘Lasko’ cross, as it happens in wheat. Fourth, segregants in four F2 populations (‘Lasko’×‘Beagle’, ‘8F/Corgo’×‘Beagle’, ‘Lasko’×‘8F/Corgo’, and‘8F/Corgo’×‘Cachirulo’) were crossed with rye. Segregation for crossability was observed, although distinct segregation classes were blurred by environmental and perhaps other factors, such as self‐incompatibility alleles in rye. Segregation patterns showed that ‘Beagle’, with high crossability to rye, carries either Kr1 or Kr2. The three triticales with low crossability with rye were most likely homozygous for Kr1 and Kr2. Therefore, it is likely that the Kr loci from A and B genomes acting in wheat also play a role in triticale × rye crosses.
Rapid introduction of disease resistance from rye into common wheat by anther culture of a 6x triticale × nulli‐tetrasomic wheat
Authors: Zhang X. Q. , Wang X. P. , Ross K. , Hu H. , Gustafson J. P. , Qualset C. O.
Published: March 2003

Powdery mildew (caused by Erysiphe graminis) and yellow rust (caused by Puccinia striiformis) are the two most serious wheat diseases found in China. Rye chromosomes, carrying genes for resistance to these diseases, were introduced into common wheat in two generations using chromosome engineering and anther culture. The F1 hybrids from a cross involving a hexaploid triticale (×Triticosecale Wittmack) ×‘Chinese Spring’ nulli‐tetrasomic N6DT6A wheat aneuploid line were anther cultured and doubled‐haploid plants were regenerated. Using genomic in situ hybridization, C‐banding and biochemical marker analyses, one of the anther‐cultured lines (ZH‐1)studied in detail, proved to be a doubled‐haploid with one rye chromosome pair added (1R) and a homozygous 6R/6D substitution (2n= 44). The line was tested for expression of disease resistance and found to be highly resistant to powdery mildew and moderately resistant to yellow rust.
Maternal and embryonal control of seed colour by different Brassica alboglabra chromosomes
Authors: Heneen W. K. , Brismar K.
Published: March 2003

Most oilseed rape, Brassica napus, cultivars are black‐seeded. The progenitor species, Brassica rapa, has either yellow or black seeds, while known cultivars of the other progenitor species Brassica oleracea/alboglabra have black seeds. To determine which chromosomes of B. alboglabra are carriers of seed colour genes, B. rapaalboglabra monosomic addition lines were produced from a B. napus resynthesized from yellow‐seeded B. rapa and brown/black‐seeded B. alboglabra. Eight out of nine possible lines have been developed and transmission frequencies of the alien chromosomes were estimated. Three B. alboglabra chromosomes in three of these lines influenced seed colour. B. rapa plants carrying alien chromosome 1 exhibited a maternal control of seed colour and produced only brown seeds, which gave rise to plants with either yellow or brown seeds. However, B. rapa plants carrying alien chromosome 4 or another as yet unidentified alien chromosome exhibited an embryonal control of seed colour and produced a mixture of yellow and brown seeds. The yellow seeds gave rise to yellow‐seeded plants, while the brown seeds gave rise to plants that yielded a mixture of yellow and brown seeds, depending on the absence or presence, respectively, of the B. alboglabra chromosome. Consequently, both maternal and embryonal control of seed colour are expected to contribute to the black‐seeded phenotype of oilseed rape.
Expressed sequence tags from cold‐acclimatized barley can identify novel plant genes
Authors: Faccioli P. , Pecchioni N. , Cattivelli L. , Stanca A. M. , Terzi V.
Published: March 2003

Expressed sequence tags (ESTs) databases are being created for several plant species. ESTs have the potential to analyse the expressed part of the genome, and to be used in a wide range of applications from the theoretical aspect of plant biology to the breeding process. The present study is based on a cold‐stressed cDNA library as a source of ESTs in barley: partial cDNA sequencing of randomly isolated clones yielded 960 ESTs. The strategy of random sequencing cDNA clones at their 5’ ends allows one to obtain information on the steady‐state level of the transcripts in a cold‐stressed green leaf of barley. Repetitive sequencing of nearly identical ESTs provides, in addition, useful information on the existence of multigene families. The results of a BLAST search performed on this set of ESTs showed that 18.5% of the tags exhibited no significant homology to known genes, 10% had significant levels of homology with known cold or other stress‐related genes, about 26% proved homologous to enzymes involved in several metabolic pathways and about 15% encoded for ribosomal proteins, cytoskeleton proteins, histones, ubiquitin, elongation factors and others. Redundancy was found for some classes of tag: RuBisCo, cab proteins, carbonic anhydrase, glutamate decarboxylase and stress related proteins.
Detection by simple sequence repeat markers of introgression from Coffea canephora in Coffea arabica cultivars
Authors: Anthony F. , Quiros O. , Topart P. , Bertrand B. , Lashermes P.
Published: March 2003

Microsatellites or simple sequence repeats (SSR) were used to assess polymorphism among 16 Coffea arabica and four Coffea canephora accessions, and to identify DNA introgression fragments from C. canephora in four C. arabica lines. Thirty‐one primer pairs allowed for the identification of 92 polymorphic alleles distributed over 37 loci. The C. arabica accessions derived from the genetic bases ‘Typica’ and ‘Bourbon’ were grouped separately according to their genetic origin. Two genotypes derived from a spontaneous hybrid (C arabica×C. canephora) were classified with the C. canephora accessions from Central Africa. Coffea canephora from West Africa were separated from the other accessions studied. Four alleles related to introgression (i.e. present in C. canephora and introgressed lines, and absent in C. arabica) were identified. The SSR markers were used successfully for characterization of a particular cultivar (‘Veranero’) from Costa Rica, which is known for its late maturity.
Preliminary evaluation of turfgrass (perennial ryegrass and red fescue) cultivars for resistance to red thread disease using artificial infection
Authors: Berestetski A. , Ehrig F. , Kastirr U.
Published: March 2003

Selection of main cool‐season turfgrasses (perennial ryegrass and red fescue) for resistance to red thread disease caused by Laetisaria fuciformis has not progressed during the last 30 years because of low reproducibility of experiments carried out under natural infection. In this study, evaluation of a set of the turfgrass cultivars, including non‐host fodder grasses as control, was performed in a climatic chamber, a cold house and in the field using three types of artificial inoculum, and correlations between trials were analysed. In general, cultivars of Festuca rubra were more susceptible to the disease but differentiated better than cultivars of Lolium perenne. Significant interactions between cultivars of L. perenne and F. rubra and isolates of L. fuciformis were found. The fungus was also able to colonize leaves of sow thistle and wheat seedlings. In field conditions and in the glass cold‐house Dactylis glomerata was found to be relatively resistant to red thread disease. A possible selection programme is proposed.
Heritability of in vitro plant regeneration capacity in sunflower
Authors: Nestares G. , Zorzoli R. , Mroginski L. , Picardi L.
Published: March 2003

Cotyledons from 20 inbred lines of sunflower were evaluated in vitro for their regeneration ability on two culture media supplemented with growth regulators. Plant regeneration by direct organogenesis was observed after 4 weeks. Significant differences among inbred lines were found for the in vitro traits ‘percentage of organogenic explants’,‘percentage of shooting explants’,‘percentage of hypertrophing explants’ and ‘percentage of callusing explants’. The medium effect was significant for all variables. Some in vitro traits displayed significant genotype‐culture medium interaction. Regeneration ability was influenced by culture medium, genotype and their interaction and genetic parameters were estimated taking this interaction into account. Heritability values ranged from 0.74 to 0.45. Strong positive correlations were observed among the organogenesis‐related traits ‘percentage of organogenic explants’, ‘percentage of shooting explants’ and ‘proliferation rate’.
Relationship between Ultrasonographic Assessment of the Corpus Luteum and Plasma Progesterone Concentration during the Oestrous Cycle in Monovular Ewes
Authors: Gonzalez de Bulnes A , Santiago Moreno J , Gomez Brunet A , Lopez Sebastian A
Published: March 2003

Contents

Ultrasonographic observations of the corpus luteum (CL) and collection of blood samples for progesterone radioimmunoassay were performed daily during 15 oestrous cycles in Spanish Merino ewes, a consistently monovular breed. Ultrasonographic image of the CL changed during the oestrous cycle, increasing its echogenic pattern from ovulation to luteolysis. The size of the CL and mean progesterone levels were significantly affected by day of cycle (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively). Both increased their values from day 1 to day 12 (from 49.6 ± 7.4 to 154.6 ± 11.8 mm2 and from 0.2 ± 0.0 to 2.8 ± 0.5 ng/ml, respectively) and then declined sharply until day 0 (28.2 ± 5.3 mm2 and 0.1 ± 0.0 ng/ml, respectively). There was a significant correlation between CL area and plasma progesterone concentrations during the entire oestrous cycle, taking the developing and regressing phases of the CL separately (p < 0.05). A central cavity was observed in 33.3% of the CL studied. The presence of this cavity had no effect in total luteal‐tissue area of the CL nor on oestrous cycle length or on progesterone concentrations. Likewise, the cavity did not affect the correlations observed between CL size and progesterone levels, CL size and day of cycle and progesterone levels and day of cycle. It is concluded that ultrasonographic assessment of CL area is a reliable method for estimating peripheral plasma progesterone levels, regardless to the presence or absence of a cavity in the CL.
Unilateral and Bilateral Vasectomy in the Dog: Alkaline Phosphatase as an Indicator of Tubular Patency
Authors: Stornelli A , Arauz M , Baschard H , de La Sota R‐L
Published: March 2003

ContentsThe objective of this research was to use a model of unilateral and bilateral occlusion of the ductus deferens in the dog to study the use of alkaline phosphatase (AP) as an indicator of tubular patency. Seven healthy cross bred dogs weighing 10–15 kg BW with normal spermiogram and AP concentrations in semen were used. From each dog, three semen samples were obtained before (intact) and after right (unilateral) and left (bilateral) vasectomy. The AP concentrations were measured in duplicates by a colorimetric method in each of the three fractions (first, second (sperm‐rich), third) of each ejaculate. In addition, a macroscopic and microscopic evaluation of each ejaculate was carried out to assure its quality. Data were analysed by least squares analysis of variance using SAS®. In intact and unilateral vasectomized dogs, 96.6% of AP measured in semen corresponded to the second sperm‐rich fraction whereas 1.53 and 1.83% corresponded to the first and third fractions respectively. Total AP concentrations (first and second and third fraction) in vasectomized dogs were lower than in intact animals (19.857 vs 2284.431 ± 4.347 UAL; p < 0.001). AP concentrations were much lower in bilateral than in unilateral vasectomized dogs (142 vs 39.572 ± 4.347 UL, p < 0.001). In summary, AP concentrations in semen can be used as an early indicator of unilateral or bilateral lack of patency of the epididymal and deferent ducts in the dog.
Quality of life in schizophrenia: A review of the literature from 1995 to 2000
Authors: Pinikahana Jaya , Happell Brenda , Hope Judy , Keks Nicholas A.
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACT:

The measurement of the quality of life of patients diagnosed with psychiatric disorders has become central to evaluating the effectiveness of treatments offered by Australian mental health services. The importance of quality of life as an indicator of the outcomes of interventions has been reflected by a large body of research seeking to measure the impact of variables such as gender, ethnicity and duration of illness on the measurable quality of life of an individual diagnosed with schizophrenia. This study aims to review and synthesize the recent literature in which quality of life has been measured by the use of at least one quality of life instrument. It is concludes that while the measurement of quality of life is valuable as a measure of outcomes, it should be treated as only one means of doing so.
Restoration of Lake Geneva: Expected versus observed responses of phytoplankton to decreases in phosphorus
Authors: Anneville Orlane , Ginot Vincent , Angeli Nadine
Published: March 2003

Long‐term phytoplankton responses in Lake Geneva to a decline in phosphorus (P) loading are examined in terms of summer (July–September) biomass and community structure. With the rapid development of human activity on its banks and within its catchment area in the 1960s, this large subalpine hydrosystem shifted from oligotrophy to eutrophy within approximately one decade. Measures to reduce P loading were initiated successfully in the mid‐1970s, when total P concentrations in the winter overturn altered from 90 μg/L in 1980 to 40 μg/L in 1998. Until the 1990s, algal descriptors improved as expected (biomass decline, reappearance of diatom species, increased contribution of nanoplankton). Then, paradoxically, and in contrast to the reappearance of oligotrophic species, summer algal biomass began to increase. Pre‐summer (period prior to the beginning of the clear water phase) dissolved inorganic phosphorus concentrations and summer phytoplankton composition presented similar interannual trends. However, the succession of phytoplankton structure during the reoligotrophication phase differed greatly from that during the eutrophication period, and a recent abnormal upward trend in algal densities is mainly the result of the development of large species that formerly were only common from late September until November. This community change, mainly triggered by filamentous (Mougeotia gracillima, Tribonema) or motile forms (Dinobryon sociale, Cryptophycea), seems to have been induced by the earlier and greater deepening of the P‐depleted layer. In addition to milder summers, this massive development of larger forms seems to be favoured by four of their biological features: tolerance to warm temperatures, tolerance to low‐light intensity (might exploit deeper layers where P is not yet limiting), shapes not only providing a large surface to volume ratio or motility (adaptation to low‐nutrient concentrations), but increasing resistance to zooplankton grazing. This paradoxical trend, perhaps reinforced by the decline on roach Rutilus rutilus abundance (an opportunistic planktivore), is likely to remain until the P‐depleted zone is extended below the layers that can be frequently resupplied in nutrients by hydrodynamic processes.
IL‐4, IL‐5 and IL‐10 are not required for the control of M. bovis‐BCG infection in mice
Authors: Erb Klaus J , Kirman Joanna , Delahunt Brett , Chen Wangxue , Le Gros Graham
Published: March 2003

Mycobacterial infections in mice are normally characterized by a profound Th1 cell‐mediated immune response, in which T cells secrete large amounts of IFN‐γ. Recent evidence suggests that this response also includes a Th2 component. In order to investigate whether production of IL‐4, IL‐5, or IL‐10 influenced the outcome of a Mycobacterium bovis‐bacille Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) infection, we intranasally infected IL‐4, IL‐5, and IL‐10 gene‐deficient and control mice and monitored the resulting immune response and bacterial clearance. IL‐4, IL‐5, and IL‐10 deficient mice cleared the mycobacteria with the same kinetics as control mice. Furthermore, T cells of cytokine deficient and control mice produced similar levels of IFN‐γ following in vitro stimulation with purified protein derivative (PPD) from M. bovis. We conclude that the cytokines IL‐4, IL‐5 and IL‐10 are not essential for and do not negatively influence the protective immune response against M. bovis‐BCG in the lung of mice.
Treatment of central nervous system inflammation with inhibitors of basement membrane degradation
Authors: Parish Christopher R , Hindmarsh Elizabeth J , Bartlett Mark R , Staykova Maria A , Cowden William B , Willenborg David O
Published: March 2003

Currently available anti‐inflammatory drugs for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) and other inflammatory diseases are generally inadequate, with disease progression not being arrested by the treatments and undesirable side effects posing problems. In response to these deficiencies our laboratories have, over the past 10 years, been developing novel drugs that interfere with the entry of leucocytes into inflammatory sites by inhibiting their passage through the subendothelial basement membrane (BM). This review initially summarizes evidence supporting the hypothesis that the subendothelial BM is a major barrier to the accumulation of leucocytes in inflammatory sites. An important point that has emerged is that breaching of the BM is probably a cooperative process, involving activation‐ and cytokine‐induced degradative enzymes contributed by leucocytes, endothelial cells and platelets. The review then discusses the properties of three separate classes of anti‐inflammatory compounds we have developed, namely sulfated polysaccharides/oligosaccharides, phosphosugars, and castanospermine (CS), which inhibit the passage of leucocytes through BM. Each drug type appears to prevent BM degradation by a different mechanism. Sulfated polysaccharides/oligosaccharides mediate their anti‐inflammatory effect by inhibiting the endoglycosidase, heparanase, which plays a key role in the solubilization of BM by invading leucocytes. In fact, our studies have highlighted the heparanase enzyme as a major target for future drug development. Phosphosugars probably inhibit inflammation by displacing lysosomal enzymes, which are involved in BM degradation, from cell surface mannose 6‐phosphate receptors. This mechanism of expressing degradative enzymes on the cell surface is particularly evident with activated T lymphocytes. On the other hand, CS interferes with appropriate targeting of lysosomal enzymes involved in BM degradation. For reasons which are still unclear, CS specifically inhibits BM degradation by endothelial cells, which results in a characteristic perivascular arrest of leucocytes in inflammatory sites. Overall, our studies have established that inhibitors of subendothelial BM degradation represent viable anti‐inflammatory agents. It is hoped that future work will result in the development of a totally new class of highly effective, subtle and non‐toxic anti‐inflammatory drugs for the treatment of MS and other inflammatory diseases.
Signalling at the synapse: Regulation of the post‐synaptic response to quantal transmitter release
Authors: Walmsley Bruce
Published: March 2003

Communication between neurones in the central nervous system occurs at specialized synaptic contacts. The strength of a synaptic signal is precisely regulated, and modification of synaptic strength is important in complex brain functions such as learning, and in the formation of appropriate neural maps during development. The fundamental building block of synaptic signalling is the post‐synaptic current generated in response to the pre‐synaptic release of a quantum of neurotransmitter. The present short review examines the factors that determine the quantal post‐synaptic current, and provides direct evidence from a recent study in the author's laboratory that regulation of quantal size is important during development of excitatory transmission in the auditory system.
Exogenous IL‐6 promotes enhanced intestinal antibody responses in vivo
Authors: Bao S , Beagley KW , Allanson M , Husband AJ
Published: March 2003

It is well documented that IL‐6 plays a critical role in B cell terminal differentiation, and in mucosal sites it stimulates proliferation and large‐scale secretion of immunoglobulin by B cells, especially those committed to IgA production. The close juxtaposition of IL‐6 mRNA+ cells to plasma cells in the intestinal lamina propria supports the proposition that IL‐6 production in situ is an important factor determining the outcome of antibody responses at that site. However, it has not been established previously whether exogenous IL‐6 could boost antibody responses in the intestine if administered with a challenge antigen. Using a resected gut loop (Thiry‐Vella loop) model, we have been able to demonstrate that in mice with double loops, antibody containing cell responses to lumenal administration of ovalbumin were 50% greater in loops given intralumenal recombinant IL‐6 with the challenge antigen, than in loops challenged with antigen alone. This demonstrates the efficacy of IL‐6 in promoting accumulation of antibody secreting cells in the gut, and suggests a potential therapeutic role for IL‐6 to enhance responses to mucosal vaccines.
The IGF axis and programmed cell death
Authors: Butt Alison J , Firth Sue M , Baxter Robert C
Published: March 2003

Insulin‐like growth factors (IGF) are mitogenic peptides that have been implicated as positive regulators of cellular proliferation. In recent years, several studies have suggested an additional role for the IGF axis in the regulation of apoptosis. Signalling through the IGF receptor has been shown to have a potent survival function and protect cells from a variety of apoptotic stimuli. The actions of IGF are regulated by a family of high‐affinity IGF binding proteins (IGFBP), which sequester the IGF from the IGF receptor. However, there is some evidence that one of these binding proteins, IGFBP‐3, may have its own pro‐apoptotic effects that are independent of its ability to modulate IGF bioavailability. In addition, it has been suggested that the tumour suppressor p53, a crucial mediator of apoptosis in response to cellular stress, may elicit several of its apoptotic effects through manipulation of components of the IGF axis. This review summarizes what is currently known about the role of the IGF system in the regulation of apoptosis, highlighting its implications in the context of tumorigenesis.
Using carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester to monitor human NK cell division: Analysis of the effect of activating and inhibitory class I MHC receptors
Authors: Warren Hilary S
Published: March 2003

Human NK cells labelled intracellularly with the fluorescent dye 5‐ and 6‐carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester (CFSE) were used to assess the effect of ligating class I MHC receptors on NK cell division. The NK cell lines used in these studies expressed a selection of the killer immunoglobulin‐like receptors CD158b and CD158a and the CD94/NKG2 family of C‐type lectin receptors. The NK cells were cultured in medium containing recombinant (r)IL‐2 and receptors were ligated using plastic bound mAb or using soluble murine IgG mAb and FcRII+ γ‐irradiated murine P815 cells. The results obtained show that ligating class I MHC‐activating receptors in either culture system stimulates NK cells to divide. Quantitative analysis of cell division reveals that a substantial loss of NK progenitor cells occurs when NK cell‐activating receptors are ligated using plastic bound mAb, consistent with concomitant activation‐induced cell death. By contrast, progenitor cell loss is prevented when activating receptors are ligated using soluble mAb and P815 cells, suggesting a role for cellular costimulation in cell survival. When inhibitory receptors are coligated with activating receptors using soluble mAb and P815 cells, NK cell division is inhibited. These results demonstrate the potential importance of the activating and inhibitory class I MHC receptors in regulating NK cell proliferation.
Analysis of growth kinetics by division tracking
Authors: Nordon Robert E , Nakamura Masanori , Ramirez Carole , Odell Ross
Published: March 2003

Cell division tracking using fluorescent dyes, such as carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester, provides a unique opportunity for analysis of cell growth kinetics. The present review article presents new methods for enhancing resolution of division tracking data as well as derivation of quantities that characterize growth from time‐series data. These include the average time between successive divisions, the proportion of cells that survive and the proliferation per division. The physical significance of these measured quantities is interpreted by formulation of a two‐compartment model of cell cycle transit characterized by stochastic and deterministic cell residence times, respectively. The model confirmed that survival is directly related to the proportion of cells that enter the next cell generation. The proportion of time that cells reside in the stochastic compartment is directly related to the proliferation per generation. This form of analysis provides a starting point for more sophisticated physical and biochemical models of cell cycle regulation.
Pertussis antibody levels in infants immunized with an acellular pertussis component vaccine, measured using whole‐cell pertussis ELISA
Authors: Hanlon Mg , Nambiar R , Kakakios Am , McIntyre P , Land Mv , Devine Pl
Published: March 2003

A commercially available whole‐cell pertussis IgG ELISA was used to test the response of 137 2‐month‐old infants to immunization with a trivalent acellular pertussis vaccine. The pre‐immunization geometric mean (GM) IgG index was 6.96 (95% confidence interval (CI) 5.88–8.04) and the postimmunization GM index was 13.16 (95% CI 12.20–14.11), P < 0.001. Eighty percent of subjects (110/137) had a significant 1.5‐fold increase of pertussis IgG index (97/137, 71%) or a postimmunization IgG index > 10 (93/137, 68%). In single antigen ELISA, 83% showed at least a fourfold increase in pertussis toxin‐specific IgG (PT‐IgG) and 91% showed an increase in IgG specific for filamentous haemagglutinin (FHA‐IgG). Four percent had high pre‐ immunization antibody levels (index > 20), likely to reflect recent maternal exposure to pertussis. This correlated with a smaller increase in pertussis IgG index. A decline in pertussis IgG index postimmunization occurred in 17/24 infants (71%) whose pre‐immunization IgG index was > 10. This postimmunization pertussis IgG index was not significantly different to that of infants with a low pre‐immunization index. A similar trend was noted with PT‐IgG and FHA‐IgG results. The whole‐cell ELISA can detect a response to acellular pertussis vaccination in most infants if both antibody index and degree of seroconversion are calculated and at least one criterion is satisfied.
Interaction of dendritic cells with mycobacteria: Where the action starts
Authors: Demangel Caroline , Britton Warwick J
Published: March 2003

Dendritic cells (DC) are the major antigen‐presenting cells in the induction of cellular responses to intracellular pathogens, such as mycobacteria. Recent studies have shown that they also play a critical role in the regulation of immune responses. The interaction of DC with microbial antigens may be the controlling factor in the development of a Th1‐orientated protective immunity. Analysis of the innate response of DC to mycobacteria and the involvement of the DC receptors in antigen recognition have highlighted the pivotal role of these cells in T‐cell activation. Mycobacteria‐infected DC have an enhanced capacity to release pro‐inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and are potent inducers of interferon‐γ‐producing cells in vivo. Therefore, DC manipulation for maximal antigen presentation and Th1 cytokine production may form the basis of a new generation of vaccines, with improved efficacy against mycobacterial infections.
New insights into the role of zinc in the respiratory epithelium
Authors: Truong‐Tran Ai Q , Carter Joanne , Ruffin Richard , Zalewski Peter D
Published: March 2003

Over the past 30 years, many researchers have demonstrated the critical role of zinc (Zn), a group IIb metal, in diverse physiological processes, such as growth and development, maintenance and priming of the immune system, and tissue repair. This review will discuss aspects of Zn physiology and its possible beneficial role in the respiratory epithelium. Here we have detailed the mechanisms by which Zn diversely acts as: (i) an anti‐oxidant; (ii) an organelle stabilizer; (iii) an anti‐apopototic agent; (iv) an important cofactor for DNA synthesis; (v) a vital component for wound healing; and (vi) an anti‐inflammatory agent. This paper will also review studies from the authors’ laboratory concerning the first attempts to map Zn in the respiratory epithelium and to elucidate its role in regulating caspase‐3 activated apoptosis. We propose that Zn, being a major dietary anti‐oxidant has a protective role for the airway epithelium against oxyradicals and other noxious agents. Zn may therefore have important implications for asthma and other inflammatory diseases where the physical barrier is vulnerable and compromised.
Prevalence, morbidity and management of adult asthma in South Australia
Authors: Ruffin R , Wilson D , Smith B , Southcott A , Adams R
Published: March 2003

This paper reviews asthma‐related data obtained between 1987 and 1997 from self‐report population surveys of adults in South Australia. A multistage, systematic, clustered area sample of adults (>15 years) was selected from a random sample of Australian Bureau of Statistics collector districts, and interviewed at home by trained health interviewers. The self‐report prevalence of doctor‐diagnosed asthma increased from 5.6% in 1987 to 12.2% in 1997. Morbidity measured as days lost from usual activities and nights awoken by asthma remained high, but hospitalization rates are trending down. The ownership of asthma action plans peaked in 1995 and has declined. The ownership of peak flow meters increased between 1992 and 1997, and the ownership of nebulisers remained constant. Evidence‐based interventions are required to improve asthma management.
Spontaneous acceptance of liver transplants in rodents: Evidence that liver leucocytes induce recipient T‐cell death by neglect
Authors: Bishop G Alex , Wang Chuanmin , Sharland Alexandra F , McCaughan Geoffrey W
Published: March 2003

In many animal models transplanted livers are not rejected, even when there is a complete MHC mismatch between the donor and recipient and the recipient is not immunosuppressed. This distinguishes liver transplants from other organs, such as kidneys and hearts, which are rapidly rejected in mismatched individuals. Acceptance of transplanted livers in a rat model is not due to the absence of an immune response to the liver and there is a rapid, abortive response that is ultimately exhausted. Donor leucocytes transferred with the liver appear to be responsible for both liver acceptance and the abortive activation of the recipient's T cells. The immune mechanism of liver transplant acceptance appears to be due to ‘death by neglect’ in which T cells are activated to express IL‐2 and IFN‐γ mRNA in the recipient lymphoid tissues, but not at adequate levels within the graft. Subsequently the activated T cells die leading to specific clonal deletion of liver donor‐reactive T cells. These findings have important implications for liver transplant patients as immunosuppressive drugs that are given to prevent rejection can also interfere with this form of tolerance. In addition, it might be possible to modify the immunosuppressive drug treatment of transplant patients to promote the process of death by neglect of recipient alloreactive T cells.
Flt3 ligand expands dendritic cell numbers in normal and malignant murine prostate
Authors: Moghaddami Mahin , Swart Bernadette , Reynolds Pakathip , Diener Kerrilyn , Brown Michael P
Published: March 2003

We have developed a murine model that facilitates the structuraland functional analysis in vivo of dendritic cell (DC)‐mediatedphagocytosis of prostate epithelial cells. Recombinant human Flt3ligand (rhFL) expands the number of dendritic cells in lymphoidand non‐lymphoid tissues of mice. We show that rhFL also inducedthe ingress of dendritic cells into murine prostate, which involutesvia epithelial apoptosis after surgical castration. Intact or castratedC57BL/6 and syngeneic transgenic adenocarcinoma of mouseprostate (TRAMP) mice were treated with rhFL or PBS control. Prostateand spleen were then studied by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. The number of prostatic CD11c+ and CD11b+ dendriticcells increased significantly in rhFL‐treated mice compared withPBS‐treated control mice and this effect was greatly augmented bycastration of the mice. The immunophenotype of rhFL‐mobilized prostaticcells was consistent with that of Langerhans cells (MHC class II+, CD11c+,CD11b+, DEC‐205+, CD8α−). MHC class II+ and CD11c+ dendriticcells that were present in the prostate glands of rhFL‐treated andcastrated C57BL/6 mice were intimately associated withTUNEL+ inclusions, which suggests that Langerhans‐typedendritic cells in prostate participated in the clearance of apoptoticcells. Expression of MHC class II, CD54, CD80 and CD86 by prostaticdendritic cells was not up‐regulated after castration and freshlyisolated rhFL‐induced prostate cells were unable to prime allogeneicT cells unless they were activated by culture either on plasticor with recombinant soluble CD40 ligand. Our data suggest that rhFL‐mobilizedprostatic dendritic cells resemble the functionally immature dendriticcells, which reside in peripheral tissues and contribute to themaintenance of peripheral tolerance.
Binding of Tamm‐Horsfall protein to complement 1q and complement 1, including influence of hydrogen‐ion concentration
Authors: Rhodes Diana CJ
Published: March 2003

The goal of this study was to further characterize the interaction between an abundant urinary glycoprotein, Tamm‐Horsfall protein, and complement 1q to determine the robustness of this reaction under different environmental conditions (particularly pH) and to begin to determine the specificity of this reaction. The influence of pH coupled with ionic strength was evaluated with an ELISA that demonstrated immobilized Tamm‐Horsfall protein bound complement 1q strongly with a KD in the nmol/L range from pH 9 to pH 5.5. Increasing the ionic strength from 10 mmol/L sodium chloride (NaCl) to 154 mmol/L NaCl decreased the affinity of Tamm‐Horsfall protein for complement 1q slightly (2−7‐fold) at pH 9 to pH 6.5. A resonant mirror biosensor was also utilized to evaluate the binding of Tamm‐Horsfall protein to complement 1q at different pH values (pH 8.2−5.8). These studies indicated that, compared to at pH 8.2, Tamm‐Horsfall protein bound complement 1q at pH 5.8 with an almost two‐fold higher affinity (pH 8.2, KD = 5.1 nmol/L vs at pH 5.8, KD = 2.8 nmol/L) due to a faster association rate (pH 8.2 kass = 1.6 × 106 L/mol per s vs pH 5.8 kass = 2.9 × 106 L/mol per s). Surprisingly, the capacity of Tamm‐Horsfall protein for complement 1q decreased significantly at pH 5.8, suggesting that a site for complement 1q binding to Tamm‐Horsfall protein may be lost at the acidic pH. Biosensor studies also showed that Tamm‐Horsfall protein bound the entire complement 1 complex with binding affinities and association rates similar to those obtained for complement 1q individually. This suggested that Tamm‐Horsfall protein bound complement 1q at a site other than the region of its collagenous tail where C1r2 and C1s2 bind. By western blot analysis, it was demonstrated that Tamm‐Horsfall protein bound preferentially to the C chain of complement 1q.
Creating a nursing development unit in a dementia care context
Authors: Keatinge Diana , Scarfe Carrol
Published: March 2003

Keatinge D, Scarfe C. International Journal of Nursing Practice 1998; 4: 120–125

Creating a nursing development unit in a dementia care context

This paper describes the process through which a Nursing Development Unit (NDU) was created in a 29‐bed unit in which nurses care for severely demented residents. The question about whether or not ethics clearance is required for the development phase of NDUs is discussed, and the framework in which to develop the NDU described. The benefits of using Participatory Action Research as the basis for undertaking a continuous process of reflection and change is highlighted. It is also suggested that two key elements necessary for NDUs are that they are ‘owned’ by the staff who work in them and that they are supported by senior management of the organisations in which they exist.
The old get equal care: Myth or reality
Authors: Wagner Nurit , Tabak Nili
Published: March 2003

The old get equal care: Myth or reality

A national ethics survey was conducted of all registered nurses participating in post‐basic specialisation nursing courses in Israel over a one‐year period (1994–95) to identify ethical situations which confront Israeli nurses caring for patients of different age groups and in different clinical settings. This study compares the responses of those nurses caring for elderly patients (60 years or older) with those caring for adult patients in other age groups. Nurses caring for the elderly reported encountering ethical dilemmas in 16 out of 37 situations presented to them, more than in the other adult patient age groups. The most frequent dilemmas were concerning mistaken or questionable treatment, patient–family conflict, patient referral to an institution or discharge to the home where the family is incapable of caring for him, offensive behaviour by caregivers and physical restraint of the patient for staff convenience. It is recommended that nursing ethics intervention programmes be established to promote ethical decision making and patients’ rights.
A midwife‐public‐health nurse’s work in northern Finland, 1950–87
Authors: Oinas Eija , Nikkonen Merja , Pietilä Anna‐Maija
Published: March 2003

This paper describes the work of Jouki Nykänen, a midwife‐public‐health nurse in northern Finland during the years 1950–87. The material for the study was collected by a biographical interview. On the basis of content analysis, the work of the interviewee consisted of the following phases: (i) midwife‐public‐health nurse in the district of Sevettijärvi (1950–58); (ii) municipal midwife in Pyhäntä (1958–60); and (iii) midwife‐public‐health nurse in the rural district of Karunki (1962–87). In Sevettijärvi, Jouki’s work emphasised independent planning and implementation. In Pyhäntä, her health‐care clinics were well organised. In Karunki, another midwife‐public‐health nurse working with Jouki made conditions flexible, with personal districts for the two nurses. During home visits, Jouki took care of the whole family, from the grandfather to the baby. The Finnish Public Health Act (1972) changed the character of Jouki’s work. The number of home visits decreased and clinics, fragmented into several fields of health care, took the place of home visits, requiring efficiency and results. The results of the study showed the core of a midwife‐public‐health nurse’s work in Finland in a changing historical and social context, as well as showing the changes in a midwife‐public‐nurse’s work since the post‐war years.
Staff nurses' role in long‐term care hospitals in Israel: Nurses' perspective
Authors: Hendel Tova , Kidron Dalia
Published: March 2003

The research focused on the staff nurse's (SN) role and aimed at identifying how SNs and superiors perceive the SN's role dimensions in long‐term care (LTC) at the turn of the century. The research sample included 32 registered SNs and 46 superiors from four LTC hospitals in Israel. Data were collected using two questionnaires developed by the researchers for an earlier study. Findings indicated a process of change in the traditional perception of the SN's role but reflected the performing of only partial integrative patterns of the role, as against what was expected and needed in the new marketplace. No significant differences in the perception of the SN's desired role and required role competencies were found between the two groups. However, significant differences were found between the groups in the perception of the actual role, mainly in performing activities of managerial and social content.