bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Cloning of Limulusα2‐Macroglobulin
Authors: Iwaki Daisuke , Kawabata Shun‐ichiro , Miura Yoshiki , Kato Atsuko , Armstrong Peter B. , Quigley James P. , Nielsen Kåre Lehmann , Dolmer Klavs , Sottrup‐Jensen Lars , Iwanaga Sadaaki
Published: July 2004

The American horseshoe crab Limulus polyphemus contains α2‐macroglobulin (α2M) in the hemolymph plasma and hemocytes. α2M from Limnulus shows many of the typical characteristics of mammalian α2M, including the presence of an internal thiol‐ester, reactivity with a diversity of endopeptidases, a unique proteinase‐trapping mechanism, and reactivity with the mammalian α2M receptor. Additionally, Limulusα2M has the unique property that it regulates the limulin‐based hemolytic system of the plasma. A cDNA encoding Limulusα2M has been obtained from a hemocyte cDNA library. The open reading frame encodes an N‐terminal signal sequence of 25 amino acid residues and a mature protein of 1482 residues. The entire amino acid sequence is similar to those of the mammalian α2Ms (28–29% identity) and contains common features found in mammalian α2Ms, a bait region, an internal thiol‐ester site, and a receptor‐binding domain. However, the N‐terminal portion (positions 24–105) has no sequence similarity with those of mammalian α2Ms, and it is structurally related to that of the human complement factor C8γ chain, consistent with a role for Limulus α2M in host defense. The component sugar analysis of Limulus α2M showed the existence of a complex type of oligosaccharide chain similar to those of mammalian α2M. However, unlike mammalian α2M, no sialic acid was detected in Limulusα2M and it contained approximately 3 mol/mol N‐acetylgalactosamine, suggesting the presence of O‐linked sugar chains, which have not been found in mammalian α2M.

Expression of α2M was detected in hemocyies, but not in hepatopancreas, heart, stomach, intestine, coxal gland, brain and skeletal muscle. Furthermore, immunoblotting of large and small granules of the hemocytes with antiserum against α2M indicated the presence of the α2M in large granules. Trypsin‐treated Limulusα2M, but not the native α2M, displaced methylamine‐treated human 125I‐α2M from the human α2M receptor with a Kd of 30 nM, suggesting conservation of the proteinase‐clearance mechanisms between mammalian and arthropod evolutionary lineages.
cDNA Cloning of Mouse Nebulin Evidence that the Nebulin‐Coding Sequence is Highly Conserved Among Vertebrates
Authors: Zhang Jian Q. , Luo Gang , Herrera Amy H. , Paterson Bruce , Horowits Robert
Published: July 2004

Nebulin is a family of giant myofibrillar proteins with molecular masses ranging over 700–900 kDa. Using a human nebulin cDNA probe, we isolated three nebulin cDNA clones from a mouse skeletal muscle cDNA library. These three clones, labeled 8c, 7a and 4b, carry inserts of 2.0, 3.0 and 3.5 kb, respectively. In Northern blots, each insert detected the same ≈25 kb message from skeletal muscle as the human nebulin probe, while detecting no messages from cardiac muscle. Sequence data in combination with reverse‐transcriptase PCR indicates that clones 7a and 8c overlap to form 4076 bp contiguous sequence. Alignment with the published full‐length human nebulin sequence indicates that clone 4b overlaps with clone 7a over 1596 bp. However, after the first 798‐bp overlap, the sequence of these two mouse nebulin clones diverge, suggesting that they derive from distinct transcripts encoding isoforms of mouse nebulin. The mouse nebulin clones encode a series of ≈245‐residue super repeats, each of which can be subdivided into seven ≈35‐residue, weakly repeating modules centered around a conserved tyro‐sine residue, consistent with the human nebulin sequence. The mouse nebulin clones align along the central third of the full‐length human sequence, corresponding to super repeats 8–16 of the 22 super repeats found in human nebulin. The translated sequence is greater than 90% identical to the human sequence, with the exception of a 200‐amino‐acid region at the C‐terminus of clone 4b, which is less than 60% identical. In genomic Southern blots, a mouse nebulin probe detected a homologous sequence in a wide variety of vertebrate species under stringent conditions. However, no significant hybridization was observed to genomic DNA from invertebrates and microorganisms, even under very low stringency. The sequence and Southern‐blot data suggest that the nebulin sequence is highly conserved among vertebrate species.
Ligand‐Binding Sites in Human Serum Amyloid P Component
Authors: Heegaard Niels H. H. , Heegaard Peter M. H. , Roepstorff Peter , Robey Frank A.
Published: July 2004

Amyloid P component (AP) is a naturally occurring glycoprotein that is found in serum and basement membranes. AP is also a component of all types of amyloid, including that found in individuals who suffer from Alzheimer's disease and Down's syndrome. Because AP has been found to bind strongly and specifically to certain glycosaminoglycans that are components of amyloid deposits, AP may play an important role in the maintenance of amyloid. In the present work, we isolated and identified two proteolytic fragments of AP that are responsible for its heparin‐binding activity. Neither fragment corresponds to published heparin‐binding sequences. The structural requirements for activity of the peptides (amino acid residues 27–38 and 192–203 of AP) were examined by means of solid‐phase inhibition assays with synthetic peptides. AP‐(192–203)‐peptide inhibits the Ca2+‐dependent binding of AP to heparin with an IC50 of 25 μM, while the IC50 of AP‐(27–38)‐peptide and AP‐(33–38)‐peptide are 10 μM and 2 μM, respectively. The understanding of the structure and function of active AP peptides will be useful for development of amyloid‐targeted diagnostics and therapeutics.
The Rabbit Ileal Lipid‐Binding Protein Gene Cloning and Functional Expression of the Recombinant Protein
Authors: Stengelin Siegfried , Apel Sabine , Becker Wolfgang , Maier Marcel , Rosenberger Jutta , Bewersdorf Ulrike , Girbig Frank , Weyland Claudia , Wess Günther , Kramer Werner
Published: July 2004

A bile‐acid‐binding protein of Mr 14000 has been previously identified by photoaffinity labeling in rabbit ileal brush border membrane vesicles [Kramer et al. (1993) J. Biol. Chem. 268, 18035–18046]. This peripheral membrane‐associated protein was purified and identified as an ileal lipid‐binding protein. It was further shown to be identical to the cytosolic 14‐kDa bile‐acid‐binding protein from the same tissue. Starting with sequence information from tryptic fragments, we cloned and sequenced the gene and its transcript. It has four exons (123, 176, 90, 115 bp) and three introns (1372, 2291, 3137 bp) and a similar structure as the genes from other members of the fatty‐acid‐binding protein family. The deduced protein has 128 amino acid residues and a calculated molecular mass of 14404 Da. It exhibits high similarity to its human (83%), mouse (77%), rat (76%) and porcine (72%) counterparts. Furthermore, the recombinant protein was produced in Escherichia coli and shown to be identical to native protein from ileal tissue. Functionality of the recombinant protein was demonstrated by labeling with various photoaffinity derivatives of bile acids. Ranking of the photolabeling efficiency of these probes towards the recombinant protein was comparable to the respective ranking towards the native protein. Polyclonal antibodies that were raised in hens against the recombinant protein, specifically recognized the ileal lipid binding protein in the brush border membrane and cytosol from rabbit ileum. In contrast, no labeling was observed with jejunal tissue. Our results suggest a specific role of the membrane‐associated ileal lipid binding protein for the process of ileal bile acid uptake.
Expression of an Active Na+/Ca2+ Exchanger Isoform Lacking the Six C‐Terminal Transmembrane Segments
Authors: Gabellini Nadia , Zatti Alessandra , Rispoli Giorgio , Navangione Anacleto , Carafoli Ernesto
Published: July 2004

The short isoform of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (67 kDa) that is produced by alternative splicing during the expression of the 6 kb canine exchanger cDNA in 293 cells was separately expressed in the same system. The protein consisted of the five N‐terminal transmembrane segments and of a large portion of the main hydrophilic loop, but lacked the six C‐terminal hydrophobic segments of the regular protein (108 kDa). Very high RNA levels were found after transient cell transfection with plasmid DNA encoding this truncated isoform. The RNA processing, the translation and targeting of the resulting protein to the plasma membrane appeared to be less efficient than those of the 108‐kDa polypeptide produced in the same system. The Na+‐dependent Ca2+‐uptake activity of 293 cells expressing the short isoform was measured by an isotopic rapid filtration method, whereas the current associated with Ca2+ extrusion was measured in electrophysiological patch‐clamp experiments. The results showed that the expressed isoform functioned in the typical reverse and forward Na+/Ca2+ exchange modes. In both the electrophysiological and the isotopic measurements the activity of the short isoform was 6–7‐fold lower than that of the 108‐kDa protein expressed in the same system. However, lower amounts of the short isoform reached the plasma membrane: its specific activity could thus be significantly higher. Possibly, the short isoform could form a dimer in which a second 67 kDa polypeptide replaces the C‐terminal part of the 108‐kDa protein.
cDNA Cloning and Functional Analysis of the p97 Subunit of the 26S Proteasome, a Polypeptide Identical to the Type‐1 Tumor‐Necrosis‐Factor‐Receptor‐Associated Protein‐2/55.11
Authors: Tsurumi Chizuko , Shimizu Yoshihisa , Saeki Mihoro , Kato Seishi , Demartino George N. , Slaughter Clive A. , Fujimuro Masahiro , Yokosawa Hideyoshi , Yamasaki Moto‐o , Hendil Klavs B. , Toh‐E Akio , Tanahashi Nobuyuki , Tanaka Keiji
Published: July 2004

Molecular cloning of cDNA for a new regulatory subunit, designated p97, of the human 26S proteasome showed that the polypeptide consists of 908 amino acid residues with a calculated molecular mass of 100 184 Da and an isoelectric point of 4.94. Computer analysis showed that p97 is very similar to type‐1 tumor‐necrosis‐factor(TNF)‐receptor‐associated protein (TRAP)‐2 and 55.11, both of which were identified recently as binding proteins of the cytoplasmic domain of type‐1 TNF receptor by yeast two‐hybrid screening. This finding suggests that the 26S proteasome might serve as a mediator molecule in the TNF signaling pathway in cells. Computer‐assisted similarity analysis also revealed the high sequence similarity of p97 with a yeast protein whose function is yet unknown, the gene for which is here termed NAS1 (non‐ATPase subunit 1). Disruption of NAS1 resulted in several phenotypes, including lethality and temperature‐sensitive growth, depending on the genetic background of the cells used. The human p97 cDNA suppressed the growth defect of nas1 disruptant cells, when expressed from single‐copy or multicopy vectors, indicating that p97 is functionally equivalent to yeast Nas1p. Culturing of the temperature‐sensitive nas1 cells at the restrictive temperature promoted the accumulation polyubiquitinated cellular proteins, implying that the 26S proteasome requires a functional Nas1p subunit for ubiquitin‐dependent proteolysis. These results indicate that p97/Nas1p plays an important regulatory role in the function of the 26S proteasome.
Pancreatic Development and Maturation of the Islet B Cell
Authors: Madsen Ole Dragsbæk , Jensen Jan , Blume Niels , Petersen Helle V. , Lund Kaare , Karlsen Christina , Andersen Frank G. , Jensen Per B. , Larsson Lars‐Inge , Serup Palle
Published: July 2004

Pancreas organogenesis is a highly regulated process, in which two anlage evaginate from the primitive gut. They later fuse, and, under the influence of the surrounding mesenchyme, the mature organ develops, being mainly composed of ductal, exocrine and endocrine compartments. Early buds are characterized by a branching morphogenesis of the ductal epithelium from which endocrine and exocrine precursor cells bud to eventually form the two other compartments. The three compartments are thought to be of common endodermal origin; in contrast to earlier hypotheses, which suggested that the endocrine compartment was of neuroectodermal origin. It is thus generally believed that the pancreatic endocrine‐lineage possesses the ability to mature along a differentiation pathway that shares many characteristics with those of neuronal differentiation. During recent years, studies of insulin‐gene regulation and, in particular, the tissue‐specific transcriptional control of insulin‐gene activity have provided information on pancreas development in general. The present review summarizes these findings, with a special focus on our own studies on pluripotent endocrine cultures of rat pancreas.
Structure and Transcriptional Regulation of Human α‐Mannosidase IIx (α‐Mannosidase II Isotype) Gene
Authors: Ogawa Ryosuke , Misago Masahiro , Fukuda Michiko N. , Kudo Shinichi , Tsukada Junichi , Morimoto Isao , Eto Sumiya
Published: July 2004

Golgi α‐mannosidase II is a key enzyme of N‐glycan processing. Its genetic defect is associated with HEMPAS (hereditary erythroblastic multinuclearity with positive acidified serum lysis test). We previously cloned cDNAs of human α‐mannosidase II (α‐MII) and its isotype, α‐mannosidase IIx [α‐MIIx; Misago, M., Liao, Y. F., Eto, S., Mattei, M. G., Moremen, K. W. & Fukuda, M. N. (1995) Proc. Natl Acad. Sci. USA 92, 11 766–11 770]. Constitutive expressions of α‐MII and α‐MIIx mRNA were shown in various human tissues. To investigate the transcriptional regulation of α‐MIIx gene, we characterized the cosmid clone of 40‐kb that includes the 5′‐flanking sequence. This clone contains at least eight exons which encode 396 amino acid residues of a total of 1139 amino acid residues of α‐MIIx. Primer‐extension analysis revealed multiple transcription‐initiation sites in the range from−70 to−58 relative to the translation‐initiation site. No canonical TATA or CAAT boxes were observed, but a (G+C)‐rich region was found in close proximity to the transcription‐initiation site. To localize the transcriptional regulatory region of this gene, various regions of the 5′ sequences were fused to the luciferase gene, and transient‐expression assays were conducted in human melanoma G‐361 cells. These studies indicated that sequence from‐12 to +11 relative to the most distal 5′‐transcription‐initiation site was involved in the promoter function. Within this region, the sequence GGGCGT similar to the consensus sequence of the Sp1 binding site, is present at positions‐12 to‐7. Enhancer activities were found in the region upstream of this site, notably from‐4300 to‐252. Thus, the α‐MIIx promoter located in a CpG island is also regulated by upstream elements, indicating the complexity of α‐MIIx gene expression.
Substrate Specificity and Inhibitor Sensitivity of Ca2+/S100‐dependent Twitchin Kinases
Authors: Heierhorst Jörg , Tang Xuexin , Lei Junyi , Probst William C. , Weiss Klaudiusz R. , Kemp Bruce E. , Benian Guy M.
Published: July 2004

Myosin‐associated giant protein kinases of the titin/twitchin‐like superfamily have previously been implicated in the regulation of muscle function, based on genetic and physiological studies. We find that recombinant constitutively active Caenorhabditis elegans and Apalysia twitchin kinase fragments differ in their catalytic activities and peptide‐substrate specificities, as well as in their sensitivities to the naphthalene sulfonamide inhibitors 1‐(5‐chloronaphthalenesulfonyl)‐1H‐hexahydro‐1,4‐diazepine (ML‐7) and 1‐(5‐iodonaphthalenesulfonyl)‐1H‐hexahydro‐1,4‐diazepine (ML‐9). The constitutively active Aplysia twitchin kinase fragment has a remarkably high activity (Vmax>100 μmol · min−1· mg−1) towards some substrate peptides. The autoinhibited forms of these twitchin kinases can be activated in a Ca2+‐dependent manner by the dimeric form of the S100A1 protein (S100A12). The twitchin kinase S100A12‐binding site can also bind Ca2+/calmodulin but neither kinase is activated by calmodulin. The data provide a functional basis for the ongoing crystallographic study of twitchin kinase fragments.
Synergism of diacylhydrazine insecticides with metyrapone and diethylmaleate
Authors: Smagghe G.
Published: July 2004

Abstract:  The two metabolic synergists, metyrapone (2‐methyl 1,2‐di‐3‐pyridyl‐1‐propanone) and diethylmaleate could increase the toxicity of the three most recent diacylhydrazines, representing a novel group of insect growth regulators (IGRs). These components are known as respective inhibitors of oxidative and glutathione S‐transferase enzymes. Larvicidal toxicity was tested in the laboratory by oral treatment against last‐instar larvae of the Colorado potato beetle Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say) and of the beet armyworm Spodoptera exigua (Hübner). The obtained results should enable to improve the activity of tebufenozide, methoxyfenozide and halofenozide, and it may be used to suggest potential mechanisms for resistance against this novel group of IGRs, that is important to counteract cross‐resistance with other insecticide groups.
Enhancement of Bacillus thuringiensis with monosodium glutamate against larvae of obliquebanded leafroller (Lep.:Tortricidae)
Authors: Pszczolkowski M. A. , Brunner J. F. , Doerr M. D. , Brown J. J.
Published: July 2004

Abstract:  Monosodium glutamate, a taste enhancer widely used in food industry, was tested in the laboratory to determine its phagostimulatory effects on larvae of Choristoneura rosaceana (Harris). Larvae fed apple leaves treated with 50–700 μg/l monosodium glutamate increased leaf tissue consumption by approximately 40%. The stimulatory effect of monosodium glutamate (at 675 μg/l concentration) was maintained throughout 10 days of continuous exposure. Adding 675 μg/l monosodium glutamate to commercial formulation of Bacillus thuringiensis ssp. kurstaki, (DiPel®2X DF), lowered LC50 from 450 to 150 μg/l (P < 0.05, Lethal Ratio Significance Test), indicating good potential for monosodium glutamate to enhance B. thuringiensis‐based formulations.
Evaluation of (Z)‐9‐tricosene baited targets for control of the housefly (Musca domestica) in outdoor situations
Authors: Hanley M. E. , Dunn D. W. , Abolins S. R. , Goulson D.
Published: July 2004

Houseflies (Musca domestica L.) are a major pest species in a variety of outdoor situations, notably on and around livestock farms and landfill used for the disposal of domestic waste. Currently no effective options are available for control of houseflies outdoors, because many populations exhibit at least some resistance to all available synthetic pesticides. (Z)‐9‐tricosene is the only commercially available pheromone for use in lure‐and‐kill approaches to housefly control, and it is widely used in indoor livestock units in combination with sugar/insecticide bait. Here we examine the potential of this approach for use outdoors, on a landfill site. We investigate the efficacy of toxic targets painted with a sugar/insecticide/(Z)‐9‐tricosene mix. The effects of target size and pheromone concentration were examined in two replicate trials, conducted in June and September 2003. As expected, catch consisted largely of males, was consistently higher on larger traps, and generally increased with (Z)‐9‐tricosene concentration even up to very high levels. However, in repeated trials, and despite mass release of marked flies, catch rates appeared to be insufficient to provide adequate control. We suggest that this is probably because (Z)‐9‐tricosene is primarily a short‐range attractant, and fly populations in outdoor situations are generally distributed over a large area. Catch declined rapidly to zero within 2 weeks, indicating that improved formulation or target design is needed to slow the weathering of active ingredients on the targets. It seems unlikely that (Z)‐9‐tricosene is sufficiently attractive to houseflies to provide an effective and economic lure in outdoor situations.
Antennal and behavioural response of codling moth Cydia pomonella to plant volatiles
Authors: Ansebo L. , Coracini M. D. A. , Bengtsson M. , Liblikas I. , Ramírez M. , Borg‐Karlson A.‐K. , Tasin M. , Witzgall P.
Published: July 2004

Identification of host volatile compounds attractive to codling moth Cydia pomonella, a most important insect of apple, will contribute to the development of safe control techniques. Synthetic apple volatiles in two doses were tested for antennal and behavioural activity in codling moth. Female antennae strongly responded to (Z)3‐hexenol, (Z)3‐hexenyl benzoate, (Z)3‐hexenyl hexanoate, (±)‐linalool and E,E‐α‐farnesene. Two other compounds eliciting a strong antennal response were the pear ester, ethyl (E,Z)‐2,4‐decadienoate, and its corresponding aldehyde, E,E‐2,4‐decadienal, which is a component of the larval defence secretion of the European apple sawfly. Attraction of codling moth to compounds eliciting a strong antennal response was tested in a wind tunnel. Male moths were best attracted to a blend of (E,E)‐α‐farnesene, (E)‐beta‐farnesene and ethyl (E,Z)‐2,4‐decadienoate. The aldehyde E,E‐2,4‐decadienal had an antagonistic effect when added to the above mixture.
Time‐dose‐mortality modelling and virulence indices for six strains of Verticillium lecanii against sweetpotato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius)
Authors: Wang L. , Huang J. , You M. , Liu B.
Published: July 2004

Bioassays of six strains of Verticillium lecanii (Zimmermann) Viégas were conducted with the sweet potato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci. For inoculation, batches of third‐instar whitefly nymphs on sweetpotato seedlings were immersed in conidial suspensions of five dosages at concentrations from 103 to 107 conidia/ml. Each dosage was used to inoculate 150–250 nymphs. The nymphs were maintained at 25°C, under 95% RH, photo phase of 16 : 8 (L : D) and observed daily for mortality. The resulting data were analysed over 8 days by a complementary log‐log (CLL) time‐dose‐mortality model, based on the Hosmer–Lemeshow test, analysing the time‐dose trends for five concentrations of six strains of V. lecanii simultaneously. The parameters from the model were used to estimate the virulence indices (the values of LC50) of six strains against B. tabaci. Based on the time‐dose‐mortality relationships fitted and the virulence indices, the virulence of the six strains of V. lecanii for B. tabai was compared. Results indicated that the strain Vl6063 imported from Canada and the domestic strains V3450 and Vp28 derived from B. tabaci and a scale insect, respectively, were more virulent than the others with LC50 values of 2.57 × 105, 6.03 × 105 and 6.03 × 105, respectively.
How to catch foliage‐dwelling spiders (Araneae) in maize fields and their margins: a comparison of two sampling methods
Authors: Ludy C. , Lang A.
Published: July 2004

The foliage‐dwelling spider fauna was collected in maize fields and on stinging nettles in adjacent margins in Bavaria, South Germany. Two different sampling methods were evaluated: drop cloth sampling and suction sampling. The overall catch was dominated by juvenile spiders, web‐building spiders, and spiders of the families Theridiidae, Linyphiidae, Tetragnathidae and Araneidae (in decreasing order). Field margins harboured more species than maize fields, whereas the total spider abundance was higher in the maize crop. Web‐building spiders such as Theridiidae and Linyphiidae were prominent in maize by individual numbers. Suction sampling with a small suction device proved to be a more efficient and consistent sampling method for foliage‐dwelling spiders than drop cloth sampling. Density and species richness of foliage‐dwelling spiders in maize was shown to be fairly high, implying that spiders of higher strata may play a more important role in biological control than suspected up to now.
The screening for X‐linked Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy amongst young patients with idiopathic heart conduction system disease treated by a pacemaker implant
Authors: Vytopil M. , Vohanka S. , Vlasinova J. , Toman J. , Novak M. , Toniolo D. , Ricotti R. , Lukas Z.
Published: July 2004

The X‐linked Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (X‐EDMD) is a hereditary muscle disorder associated with cardiac involvement. Sinus node dysfunction and atrioventricular conduction defects, typical of X‐EDMD, occur in both males and females and may result in sudden cardiac death unless treated by permanent pacing. The objective of the study was to determine the frequency and relevance of X‐EDMD in heart conduction system disease in young individuals treated with a pacemaker implant. The medical history of 3450 paced individuals in the region of South Moravia, Czech republic, was reviewed. Thirty‐five patients, 20 males and 15 females, with idiopathic heart conduction disease of onset before age 40 were identified and screened for X‐EDMD. Within these 35 individuals, only one male was found to carry a mutation in X‐EDMD gene. We conclude that the clinical relevance of X‐EDMD in heart conduction system disease is very low. It should, however, be included into the diagnostic work‐up of young male individuals with idiopathic cardiac conduction disturbances.
The Cotard syndrome. Report of two patients: with a review of the extended spectrum of ‘délire des négations’
Authors: Gardner‐Thorpe C. , Pearn J.
Published: July 2004

The Cotard syndrome is characterized by the delusion where an individual insists that he has died or part of his body has decayed. Although described classically in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, physical disorders including migraine, tumour and trauma have also been associated with the syndrome. Two new cases are described here, the one associated with arteriovenous malformations and the other with probable multiple sclerosis. The delusion has been embarrassing to each patient. Study of such cases may have wider implications for the understanding of the psychotic interpretation of body image, for example that occurring in anorexia nervosa.
Postmenopausal HRT is not independent risk factor for dural sinus thrombosis
Authors: Vander T. , Medvedovsky M. , Shelef I. , Duchano L. , Tomer A. , Herishanu Y.
Published: July 2004

While a dural sinus thrombosis (DST), is a well‐known consequence of the use of oral contraceptives, the role of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in DST was not previously evaluated. We report two postmenopausal women, presenting with DST under HRT. Antiphospholipid antibodies in one case and borderline protein S deficiency in another were diagnosed. Only five cases of DST under HRT were previously reported and in two of them additional prothrombotic risk factors were found. According to these and previous cases, HRT is not an independent risk factor for DST.
A negative personal and family history for venous thrombotic events is not sufficient to exclude thrombophilia in patients with cerebral venous thrombosis
Authors: Amberger N. , Masuhr F. , Valdueza J. M. , Vetter B. , Weih M.
Published: July 2004

A hereditary thrombophilia is found in 20–30% of patients with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT). These patients might have an increased rate of a positive personal or family history of venous thrombotic events. We investigated the diagnostic value of a structured personal and family history for venous thrombotic events in 56 consecutive cases of CVT. Fourteen of 56 patients (25%) had a hereditary thrombophilia, mostly factor V Leiden. Patients with both CVT and hereditary thrombophilia had more frequently a positive family and personal history than patients affected by CVT only but the difference was not strong enough to differ from the 42 CVT patients without thrombophilia (43% vs. 31%; P = 0.52 and 14% vs. 10 %; P = 0.63). We conclude that a negative personal and family history of venous thrombotic events is not sufficient to exclude thrombophilia and patients with CVT should be tested for inherited thrombophilia regardless of the patient's past personal and family history for venous thrombotic events.
Asymptomatic myasthenia gravis influences pregnancy and birth
Authors: Hoff J. M. , Daltveit A. K. , Gilhus N. E.
Published: July 2004

Women with myasthenia gravis (MG) have an increased risk of complications and adverse pregnancy outcome. This study has examined if this is true also for asymptomatic MG. Using data from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway, births of women prior to receiving an MG diagnosis or in complete clinical MG remission were compared with all non‐MG births in Norway in the same period (1967–2000). Forty‐nine births occurred in 37 women, 11 of them in clinical remission, and six thymectomized. The perinatal mortality was increased (P = 0.02) and induction of birth (P = 0.007) occurred more frequently. Protracted labor occurred more frequently in the target group (P = 0.03). One of the three children that died had Potter's syndrome. Both mothers with children who died were in complete clinical MG remission. One had previously given and one subsequently gave birth to a child with neonatal MG. The results indicate that complications in birth and pregnancy are not only related to clinical MG disease severity but to the underlying immunological dysfunction.
Effects of Noncompliance on the Success of Alternative Designs of Marine Protected‐Area Networks for Conservation and Fisheries Management
Authors: KRITZER JACOB P.
Published: July 2004

Abstract:  Studies examining the efficacy of marine protected areas (MPAs) rarely consider the potential for noncompliance. Violation of MPAs will typically occur near boundaries, so perimeter‐to‐area ratios will be important determinants of actual protection, suggesting that MPAs should be larger and likely fewer. If larval dispersal is highly localized, however, MPAs will need to be more numerous, widespread, and likely smaller in order to replenish many fished areas. Thus, there is a discord between the MPA network that would best achieve external replenishment and that which would maximize compliance. I investigated these competing criteria with a spatially structured model of a hypothetical marine fishery exploiting a sedentary reef‐dwelling organism. With full compliance, a network of several small MPAs protects a population of similar size to that in a single large MPA and produces higher fishery yield across a range of fishing mortality rates. As noncompliance increases, however, the protected population in the network of several small MPAs approaches zero, whereas the single, large MPA population declines much less. Furthermore, at high levels of fishing mortality and noncompliance, yield with the network of several small MPAs begins to mirror that with no MPAs and drops below the yield with the single large MPA. Temporal variability in both the protected population size and yield are similar between the two designs with full compliance, but the single large MPA provides much greater stability in both metrics at high fishing mortality rates as noncompliance increases. My results highlight the important effects of noncompliance in realized MPA benefits and can explain why observed and expected effects might differ. Moreover, my results support a call for increased attention to rates of noncompliance and their ecological effects and greater collaboration among natural scientists, social scientists, managers, and stakeholders in understanding and altering illegal behavior.
Participatory Approach for Rapid Assessment of Plant Diversity through a Folk Classification System in a Tropical Rainforest: Case Study in Xishuangbanna, China
Authors: JINXIU WANG , HONGMAO LIU , HUABIN HU , LEI GAO
Published: July 2004

Abstract:  Rural indigenous people are often very knowledgeable about plant and animal species, including their identification and ecology. The use of indigenous knowledge has increasingly attracted attention in scientific circles. The Dai people, a dominant nationality in southwestern Yunnan, China, have developed their own traditional plant classification system. In a case study in Xishuangbanna, we compared the differences in number of plant species identified between scientific and Dai folk classification. The Dai people identified more than 80% of the plant species, and the correspondence between folk and scientific plant species was 87.7%. Our results indicate that folk plant classification could be used in rapid assessment of plant species in certain regions. The use of folk systems of plant classification for rapid biodiversity assessment will contribute to conservation of both indigenous knowledge and regional biodiversity.
Extinction Debt of Protected Areas in Developing Landscapes
Authors: CARROLL CARLOS , NOSS REED F. , PAQUET PAUL C. , SCHUMAKER NATHAN H.
Published: July 2004

Abstract: To conserve biological diversity, protected‐area networks must be based not only on current species distributions but also on the landscape's long‐term capacity to support populations. We used spatially explicit population models requiring detailed habitat and demographic data to evaluate the ability of existing park systems in the Rocky Mountain region (U.S.A. and Canada) to sustain populations of mammalian carnivores. Predicted patterns of extirpation agreed with those from logistic‐regression models based only on park size and connectedness (or isolation) for the grizzly bear (Ursus arctos) in developed landscapes (northern U.S. Rocky Mountains) and semideveloped landscapes (southern Canadian Rocky Mountains). The area‐isolation model performed poorly where the landscape matrix contained large amounts of suitable habitat (northern Canadian Rocky Mountains). Park area and connectedness were poor predictors of gray wolf (Canis lupus) occurrence because of this species' broader‐scale range dynamics and greater ability to inhabit the landscape matrix. A doubling of park area corresponded to a 47% and 57% increase in projected grizzly bear population persistence in developed and semideveloped landscapes, respectively. A doubling of a park's connectedness index corresponded to a 81% and 350% increase in population persistence in developed and semideveloped landscapes, respectively, suggesting that conservation planning to enhance connectivity may be most effective in the earliest stages of landscape degradation. The park area and connectivity required for population persistence increased as the landscape matrix became more hostile, implying that the relatively small combined area of parks in the boreal forest and other undeveloped regions may fall below the threshold for species persistence if parks become habitat islands. Loss of carnivores from boreal landscapes could further reduce the viability of temperate populations occupying refugia at the southern range margin. Spatially realistic population models may be more informative than simpler patch‐matrix models in predicting the effects of landscape change on population viability across a continuum of landscape degradation.
Effects of Buffer‐Strip Retention and Clearcutting on Land Snails in Boreal Riparian Forests
Authors: HYLANDER KRISTOFFER , NILSSON CHRISTER , GÖTHNER TOVE
Published: July 2004

Abstract:  We investigated the short‐term effects of forest clearcutting on land snails (terrestrial gastropods) in 15 forest stands along small streams in Sweden. Two different silvicultural treatments were applied at each site: clearcutting across the stream channel and buffer strips 10 m wide on each side of the stream. Additionally, we studied 10 reference sites in unlogged riparian forests along similar‐sized streams. All sites were studied before logging and then 2.5 years after logging. After clearcutting the number of individuals in a 0.5‐m2 sample from each site decreased on average from 107 to 87, and the mean number of species per sample decreased from 9.9 to 7.7. Most species were negatively affected, but there were also clear differences in sensitivity. There were correlations between species survival and ground moisture. At the wettest clearcut sites with an almost intact bryophyte cover, the land snails were unaffected by clearcutting. This result suggests that wet or moist forest floors can serve as refugia even at very small spatial scales (e.g., shallow hollows, crevices). If this is an important mechanism, the spatial distribution of small habitats could be important for the long‐term survival of the snail fauna or other small, dispersal‐limited organisms at clearcut sites. In the buffer strips, the number of individuals decreased but not the number of species, indicating that buffer‐strip retention is a good practice for protecting land snails in riparian forests. The varying effectiveness of the buffer strip could partly be explained by the proportion of the remaining basal area, emphasizing that buffer strips could be even more effective if efforts are made to avoid heavy damage by windthrows.
Climatic Change, Wildfire, and Conservation
Authors: McKENZIE DONALD , GEDALOF ZE'EV , PETERSON DAVID L. , MOTE PHILIP
Published: July 2004

Abstract: Climatic variability is a dominant factor affecting large wildfires in the western United States, an observation supported by palaeoecological data on charcoal in lake sediments and reconstructions from fire‐scarred trees. Although current fire management focuses on fuel reductions to bring fuel loadings back to their historical ranges, at the regional scale extreme fire weather is still the dominant influence on area burned and fire severity. Current forecasting tools are limited to short‐term predictions of fire weather, but increased understanding of large‐scale oceanic and atmospheric patterns in the Pacific Ocean (e.g., El Niño Southern Oscillation, Pacific Decadal Oscillation) may improve our ability to predict climatic variability at seasonal to annual leads. Associations between these quasi‐periodic patterns and fire occurrence, though evident in some regions, have been difficult to establish in others. Increased temperature in the future will likely extend fire seasons throughout the western United States, with more fires occurring earlier and later than is currently typical, and will increase the total area burned in some regions. If climatic change increases the amplitude and duration of extreme fire weather, we can expect significant changes in the distribution and abundance of dominant plant species in some ecosystems, which would thus affect habitat of some sensitive plant and animal species. Some species that are sensitive to fire may decline, whereas the distribution and abundance of species favored by fire may be enhanced. The effects of climatic change will partially depend on the extent to which resource management modifies vegetation structure and fuels.
Assessment of the abbreviated Duke Social Support Index in a cohort of older Australian women
Authors: Powers Jennifer R , Goodger Brendan , Byles Julie E
Published: July 2004

Objectives: To assess the acceptability, reliability and validity of the 11‐item Duke Social Support Index (DSSI) in community‐dwelling older Australian women, and to describe its relationship with the women's sociodemographic and health characteristics.

Methods: Women aged 70–75 years were randomly selected from the national Medicare database, with over‐sampling of rural and remote areas. The mailed survey included items about social support, Medical Outcomes Study Short Form Health Survey (SF‐36), health service use, recent life events and sociodemographics.

Results: All DSSI items were completed by 94% of the 12 939 participants. Internal reliability was reasonable for 10 of the 11 DSSI items and its factors, social interaction (four items) and satisfaction with social support (six items; Cronbach's alpha of 0.8, 0.6, 0.8). The factor structure was consistent for subgroups of women: urban/non‐urban; English speaking/non‐English speaking background; married/widowed. Summed scores were highly correlated with factor scores and showed good construct validity. Higher social support was associated with better physical and mental health, being Australian born, more educated and better able to manage on income.

Conclusion: Ten of the 11 DSSI items provided an acceptable, brief and valid measure of social support for use in mailed surveys to community‐dwelling older women.
Post‐traumatic stress disorder, social support and cognitive status in community‐based older veterans
Authors: Alpass Fiona , Long Nigel , Blakey Judy , Pachana Nancy
Published: July 2004

Objective: The present study investigated the relationships between structural and qualitative aspects of social support, combat‐related post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and cognitive status in a New Zealand veterans sample.

Methods: A random sample of 232 New Zealand veterans completed a self‐report questionnaire and participated in a face‐to‐face interview.

Results: Regression analysis showed that when controlling for age, income, education, depression and general health, PTSD scores had a negative relationship with cognitive status. Those who reported having private, restricted social networks had poorer cognitive functioning. These relationships were independent of each other.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that while social support might be a potential target for interventions in at‐risk older adults, health professionals need to be aware of the concomitant possible influence of past trauma when dealing with this specific population.
Oral health of Adelaide nursing home residents: longitudinal study
Authors: Chalmers JM , Carter KD , Spencer AJ
Published: July 2004

Objective: The Adelaide Dental Study of Nursing Homes aimed to quantify oral disease experience, incidence and increments in Adelaide nursing home residents.

Methods: Questionnaires and dental inspections were completed at baseline and at 1‐year for residents from randomly selected Adelaide nursing homes.

Results: The residents were very functionally dependent, cognitively impaired and behaviourally difficult older adults with complex oral problems and dental treatment needs. The prevalence of edentulism (total tooth loss) (63%) decreased and more residents were retaining natural teeth. Existing residents had a mean of 10.8 teeth present and new residents had a mean of 12.7 teeth present. Residents’ previous experiences of caries (decay) were high – existing residents had a mean of 1.2 decayed teeth and new residents had a mean of 0.8 decayed teeth. Residents’ caries increments (new decay) over the 1‐year period were high (coronal = 2.5 surfaces; root = 1.0 surfaces), especially in those who had lost weight and who could eat fewer food types. These levels of caries were many times greater than had been reported for community‐dwelling older adults. Large accumulations of plaque, calculus and debris (food) were evident on residents’ natural teeth and dentures, especially those with dementia. Up to 25% of residents owned dentures that were not worn. Residents with dementia gave their carers complex and challenging oral hygiene care problems. Existing and new residents had similar general health and oral health characteristics, with the exceptions that new residents had significantly more filled tooth surfaces, and fewer decayed retained roots.

Conclusion: New residents were being admitted to the nursing homes with a compromised oral health status or developed severe oral diseases and conditions within several months of their admittance. Residents’ oral diseases, especially coronal and root caries, rapidly progressed during their stay in residential care.
End of life care for older people admitted to hospital
Authors: Beer Christopher
Published: July 2004

End of life care is a common and challenging area of geriatric practice. There is limited literature detailing the wishes of Australian patients regarding resuscitation and end of life care. Few very elderly patients benefit from cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The evidence regarding end of life care is conflicting. Large studies are available examining the care of seriously ill older patients in USA hospitals. Attempts should be made to ascertain the wishes of competent patients regarding resuscitation and end of life care. Older patients who are seriously ill might often not be able to express their wishes. Our practice must thus incorporate the use of surrogate decision makers and advance care directives.
Balance, fear of falling, pain and gait aid use by low care older people: pilot study
Authors: Watson SC , Chipchase LS , Mackintosh S
Published: July 2004

Objective:To investigate the influence of balance, fear of falling and pain on the type of gait aids used by low care residential older persons.

Method:A cross‐sectional design was used. Valid and reliable measures of balance (Berg Balance Test), fear of falling (Falls Efficacy Scale) and pain (Geriatric Pain Measure) were collected. The influence of these clinical factors on the type of gait aid subjects used (no aid, stick or frame, or both) was analysed using one‐wayanovafor multiple independent groups.

Results:Balance and fear of falling were significantly related to the type of gait aid subjects used (P < 0.05), whereas pain had no significant influence (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:Balance and fear of falling are significantly associated with the type of gait aid used in this low care population and thus might be important clinical factors to consider when prescribing gait aids. The Berg Balance Test and the Falls Efficacy Scale appear to be useful quantitative tools that might assist this.
The humble telephone: a medium for running carer support groups
Authors: Shanley Chris , Roddy Mary , Cruysmans Bénédicte , Eisenberg Masha
Published: July 2004

Objective: Teleconferencing is commonly used in business to conduct meetings and interviews. It can also be used to conduct education and support groups for carers who are not able to attend face‐to‐face groups. The Carer Support Network Project was funded by the New South Wales (NSW) Government to promote the use of telephone support groups for carers of people living with dementia.

Method: Twenty‐two health and community workers were trained in the conduct of telephone support groups and were helped to organise and run 10 support groups across NSW. These included six groups conducted in a language other than English and one for Aboriginal carers.

Result: The program was evaluated highly by the trainee group facilitators and the group participants.

Conclusion: Telephone support groups should be more widely available as one option for carer support, especially for people who are geographically or socially isolated.
Comparative Effects of Ciprofloxacin and Ceftazidime on Cytokine Production in Patients with Severe Sepsis Caused by Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Gogos C. A. , Skoutelis A. , Lekkou A. , Drosou E. , Starakis I. , Marangos M. N. , Bassaris H. P.
Published: July 2004

In the present study the effect of ciprofloxacin versus ceftazidime on concentrations of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the sera of patients with severe sepsis was evaluated. The study included 58 previously healthy patients suffering from severe sepsis caused by gram-negative bacteria, treated with either ciprofloxacin or ceftazidime after thorough clinical and microbiological evaluation and followed up for clinical outcome. Levels of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1b (IL-1b), IL-6, and IL-8 and of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, as well as of IL-1 receptor antagonist and soluble TNF receptors I and II, in serum were measured at baseline and 24 and 48 h after the first antimicrobial dose. Mean SAPS-II scores, development of septic shock, and mortality rates were similar in the two groups (43.2 ± 9.2, 21.4%, and 14.3% in the ceftazidime group versus 49.8 ± 11.3, 20%, and 13.3% in the ciprofloxacin group). Serum TNF-α and IL-6 levels at 24 and 48 h were significantly lower in the ciprofloxacin group, while the IL-10/TNF-α ratio was significantly higher, than those for the ceftazidime group. Among patients with high baseline TNF-α levels, there were significant increases in the IL-10/TNF-α ratio at both 24 and 48 h over that at admission for the ciprofloxacin group, while no differences were noted in the ceftazidime group. These results indicate that ciprofloxacin may have an immunomodulatory effect on septic patients by attenuating the proinflammatory response, while there is no evidence that differences in the cytokines measured have any impact on the final outcome.