bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Persistence of Liver Cirrhosis in Association with Proliferation of Nonparenchymal Cells and Altered Location of α-Smooth Muscle Actin-Positive Cells
Authors: Kang Jin Seok , Morimura Keiichirou , Salim Elsayed I. , Wanibuchi Hideki , Yamaguchi Shuji , Fukushima Shoji
Published: September 2005

This study was carried out to achieve pathological understanding for the persistence of cirrhosis induced by thioacetamide (TAA). Forty-five, male, 21-day-old, F344 rats were randomly allocated to group 1 and received drinking water as a control, and groups 2 and 3 given 0.015% or 0.03% TAA, respectively for 12 weeks. Two-third of animals per group were sacrificed, and remainder were maintained for a further 4 weeks without TAA treatment. Liver cirrhosis was induced in all animals in group 3 at week 12, with obvious increase of collagen content, and this persisted after cessation of TAA. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) positive labeling indices of nonparenchymal cells were increased significantly after cessation in groups 2 and 3 ( p < 0.01). RT-RCR analysis of α-smooth muscle actin ( α-SMA) showed significant increase in group 3 compared to that of control at both time points ( p < 0.05). Immunohistochemical staining of it demonstrated positive cells to mainly be located around regenerating hepatic nodules at week 12, however, they were focused into enlarged portal areas consisting of fibrous tissues and pseudo-bile ductular cells after the cessation. Taken together, we conclude persistence of liver cirrhosis could be associated with the proliferation of nonparenchymal cells and altered location of α-SMA positive cells.
Ziracin-Induced Congenital Urogenital Malformations in Female Rats
Authors: Poulet Frederique M. , Veneziale Robert , Vancutsem Paul M. , Losco Patricia , Treinen Kimberley , Morrissey Richard E.
Published: September 2005

Spontaneous hypospadias is seldom observed in rats in contrast to its occurrence in 1 out of 250 human births. Ziracin, an antibacterial of the everninomycin class under development for serious enterococcal, staphylococcal, and streptococcal infections, caused anomalies of the external genitalia in F1 female rats and decreased reproductive performance. To characterize the urogenital malformations and determine the period of sensitivity to the effects of Ziracin during development, pregnant rats (F0) were administered 60 mg/kg IV of Ziracin from GD6 to LD21, GD6 to 13, GD14 to the last day of gestation or LD0 to 21. Controls received saline or placebo from GD6 to LD21. Ziracin-induced changes occurred in F1 rats exposed from GD6 to LD21 and GD14 to the last day of gestation, indicating that the period of sensitivity to Ziracin was from GD 14 to the last day of gestation. The urogenital abnormalities consisted of cranial displacement of the urethral opening within the vagina from its normal location at the tip of the genital tubercle. When the urethrovaginal junction occurred at the distal third of the vagina, it created an urogenital cloaca. As a result, ascending infections were seen in the urinary and genital tract. No differences in survivability, body weight, and date of vaginal opening were observed in F1 females. The estrous cycles were slightly prolonged. The mating and fertility indices were decreased as a result of the urogenital anomalies. The mammary glands of pregnant F1 females were underdeveloped, thus F2 pups from affected F1 females had a decreased survival rate. Although the cause of these effects is not known, the findings are consistent with a potential hormonal mechanism.
Modulation of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Incidence in Rats Via Diet and a Novel Calcium Channel Antagonist
Authors: Lenz Barbara , Crameri Flavio M. , Eichler David A. , Schläppi Bernhard , Wiltshire Hugh R. , Wood John , Seymour Robin A.
Published: September 2005

An unexpected dose related increase in oral squamous cell carcinomas was observed in a standard 2-year carcinogenicity study with a novel calcium channel blocker, in which Wistar rats received daily doses of 0, 1.5, 7, 20, or 40 mg/kg of the compound mixed with a standard diet containing fibers from barley. This finding was associated with an increased incidence of severe (destructive) periodontitis and the formation of oro-nasal fistulae at the 2 highest doses. Five assays of the compound for genotoxicity were negative indicating that a genotoxic effect was highly improbable. To investigate the underlying pathogenic mechanisms a second 2-year study in the same strain of rats was initiated and the influence of the diet and/or a possible local irritancy by the drug was assessed. In this second study the compound was administered by oral gavage at daily doses of 0, 7, or 40 mg/kg (later reduced to 20 mg/kg due to systemic intolerance) to rats maintained either on the standard diet or on a low fiber diet assumed to be less aggressive in terms of inducing periodontal lesions. Dose dependent gingival overgrowth (a class-related effect) was observed in the incisor and molar teeth area of all treated groups but was independent of the diet used. No oral tumors were found in the standard diet or low fiber diet controls and all treatment groups fed the low fiber diet, whereas in the high-dose group fed the standard diet a total of 8 oral squamous cell carcinomas were detected in association with an increased incidence of severe periodontitis. These results indicate that the increased incidence of squamous cell carcinomas observed upon chronic administration of the compound is not due to a direct tumorigenic effect of the drug. Tumor formation is attributable to severe periodontal disease favored by the diet and class related gingival overgrowth.
Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen—A Marker for Ovarian Follicle Counts
Authors: Muskhelishvili Levan , Wingard Susan K. , Latendresse John R.
Published: September 2005

Enumerating ovarian follicles is an effective way to estimate the extent of ovarian toxicity in female rodents exposed to xenobiotics. Differential follicle counts are useful in safety assessment bioassays and in interspecies extrapolation of ovarian toxicity. Counting the follicles in H&E-stained sections is labor intensive, tedious, and costly. In the present study we demonstrated that in rat formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded ovary sections follicles of all degrees of maturity can be visualized by the use of antibody directed against proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Follicles are easily distinguished from ovarian background with the ability to detect and identify primordial follicles being enhanced. This translates into a significant decrease in variability of follicle counts, labor, and cost. Specifically, variability dropped from 11% to 0.2%, the counting time was reduced by 46%, and the cost by 48%.
Olfactory Epithelial Metaplasia and Hyperplasia in Female Harlan Sprague–Dawley Rats Following Chronic Treatment with Polychlorinated Biphenyls
Authors: Nyska Abraham , Yoshizawa Katsuhiko , Jokinen Micheal P. , Brix Amy E. , Sells Donald M. , Wyde Michael E. , Orzech Denise P. , Kissling Grace E. , Walker Nigel J.
Published: September 2005

The National Toxicology Program recently completed a series of studies to evaluate the relative potency for toxicity and carcinogenicity of several polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons including dioxin-like compounds (DLCs) and polychlorinated biphenyls. Female Sprague–Dawley rats were administered by gavage for up to 2 years with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p-dioxin (TCDD); 3,3′,4,4′,5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB126); 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran (PeCDF); 2,2′,4,4′,5,5′-hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB153); a tertiary mixture of TCDD, PCB126, and PeCDF; a binary mixture of PCB126 and 153; or a binary mixture of PCB126 and 2,3′,4,4′,5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB118); control animals received corn oil-acetone vehicle (99:1) alone. Nasal epithelial changes were observed only in animals exposed for 2 years to the higher doses of the binary mixtures of PCB126 + PCB153 (1000 ng/kg and 1000 ug/kg) and PCB126 + PCB118 (216 and 360 ng TCDD equivalents/kg). In both studies, the changes were of the same nonneoplastic nature, localized to nasal sections II and III located, respectively, at the level of the incisive papilla anterior to the first palatial ridge (section II) and through the middle of the second molar teeth (section III). The changes consisted of hyperplasia of the respiratory epithelium (level II) and metaplasia of olfactory epithelium to respiratory epithelium with further hyperplasia of the metaplastic respiratory epithelium (levels II and III). Variable amounts of acute inflammatory exudate appeared within the lumen of the nasal cavity, overlying the affected epithelium. Occasionally, the inflammation eroded through the skull and into the adjacent olfactory bulbs.
Experimental Renal Failure and Iron Overload: A Histomorphometric Study in Rat Tibia
Authors: Mandalunis Patricia M. , Ubios Angela M.
Published: September 2005

Renal failure (RF) is a serious disease of relatively high incidence, known to cause bone alterations. RF patients frequently suffer anemia, which is usually treated with iron. Given that iron overload inhibits bone formation, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of iron on the subchondral bone of rat tibiae, using a model of renal failure. Male Wistar rats were subjected to experimental nephrectomy in order to induce renal failure and to iron overload by daily intraperitoneal injections of 88 mg/kg body weight of iron-dextran for 16 days. Tetracyclines were injected intraperitoneally to evaluate dynamic parameters of bone. Undecalcified histological sections of the tibiae were obtained. Serum urea, creatinine, and paratohormone (PTH) levels were evaluated 30 days after the onset of the experiment. Static and dynamic histomorphometric measurements were performed. Iron overload modified the response of the animals with renal failure: a reduction in bone forming activity compatible with adynamic bone disease and a decrease in peritrabecular fibrosis were observed. Our results suggest that iron is yet one more factor involved in the imbalance in bone metabolism typically found in renal failure patients treated with iron, rendering diagnosis and treatment of bone disease in these patients more complex.
Real‐Time PCR Improves Detection of Trichomonas vaginalis Infection Compared With Culture Using Self‐Collected Vaginal swabs
Authors: Caliendo A. M. , Jordan J. A. , Green A. M. , Ingersoll J. , Diclemente R. J. , Wingood G. M.
Published: September 2005

Objective. To compare a real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay with broth culture for the detection of Trichomonas vaginalis using self‐collected vaginal swabs.

Methods. Self‐collected vaginal swabs were obtained from adolescent and young adult African‐American women participating in HIV‐1 prevention programs. T. vaginalis culture was performed using the InPouch TV System. Samples
for the real‐time PCR assay were collected using the BDProbeTec ET Culturette Direct Dry Swab system and tested in a laboratory‐developed assay which targeted a repeated sequence of the genome. Discrepant samples that were culture negative and positive in the real‐time PCR assay were tested in a confirmatory PCR which targeted a different region of the T. vaginalis genome, the18S ribosomal DNA gene.

Results. Of the 524 specimens tested by both culture and real‐time PCR, 36 were culture positive and 54 were positive in the real‐time PCR assay; 16 of the 18 discrepant specimens were also positive in the confirmatory PCR assay. Using a
modified gold standard of positive by culture or positive in both PCR assays, the sensitivity of the real‐time PCR assay was 100% and the specificity was 99.6%, whereas culture had a sensitivity of 69.2% and a specificity of 100%.

Conclusions. The real‐time PCR assay was sensitive and specific for the detection of T. vaginalis DNA from self‐collected vaginal swab specimens. The ability to use the BDProbeTec dry swab system for the real‐time PCR testing allowed for the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and T. vaginalis from a single specimen.
Gram‐Negative Bacterial LPS Induced Poor Uterine Receptivity andImplantation Failure in Mouse: Alterations in IL‐1β Expression in the Preimplantation Embryo and Uterine Horns
Authors: Deb Kaushik , Chaturvedi Madan Mohan , Jaiswal Yogesh Kumar
Published: September 2005

Genito‐urinary tract or systemic infections of the gram‐negative bacteria in pregnant women, causes abortions, preterm labor, and several other perinatal complications. LPS is the most potent antigenic component of the gram‐negative bacterial
cell wall and is known to modulate the expression of various proinflammatory cytokines. Here we investigate the role of the soluble form of IL‐1 i.e., IL‐1β in the ‘minimum dose’ of LPS induced pregnancy loss in mice. Uterine cross‐sections on each day of the preimplantation period of pregnancy were examined histopathologically for finding out LPS induced changes in the uterine preparation for embryo implantation. The expression of IL‐1β in the various stages of the preimplantation period of pregnancy was studied by RT‐PCR in the embryos and the uterine horns of the LPS treated and normal pregnant mice. We found that LPS significantly alters the proliferation of the glandular epithelium, luminal epithelium and stroma during the preimplantation period. We also found large infiltration of macrophages into the uterine horns of the LPS treated animals. The level and pattern of IL‐1β expression in the preimplantation embryos and uterine horns were also altered in
LPS treated animals. These observations indicate that LPS can alter the uterine preparation for blastocyst implantation, which could be due to the change in the IL‐1β expression in the uterine horns. However, a change in the expression pattern
of IL‐1β in the preimplantation embryos underlines the significance of this molecule in LPS induced pregnancy loss or implantation failure in mouse.
Functional Hyperemia is Reduced in Skeletal Muscle of Aged Rats
Authors: HAMMER LEAH W. , BOEGEHOLD MATTHEW A.
Published: September 2005

Objective: To test the hypothesis that active hyperemia is reduced in skeletal muscle of old rats due to a decreased bioavailability of prostanoids, which in turn is due to increased oxidative stress.

Methods: The microvasculature of the spinotrapezius muscle of 3‐, 12‐, and 24‐month male Sprague‐Dawley rats was examined using in vivo videomicroscopy. Arteriolar diameter and centerline red cell velocity were measured in resting and contracting muscle. The effect of prostanoids was examined using indomethacin (10 μ M), and passive resting arteriolar diameters were determined using adenosine (100 μ M). Lipid peroxidation was assessed ex vivo by measuring tissue levels of malondialdehyde.

Results: Arteriolar diameters and blood flow in resting muscle did not differ among the age groups, but increases in diameter and flow during muscle contraction in young rats were greater than in the two older age groups. Indomethacin did not affect resting arteriolar diameters and blood flow in 3‐ and 12‐month rats, but significantly decreased both parameters in 24‐month rats. Indomethacin had no effect on arteriolar diameter and blood flow responses during muscle contraction in any age group. Passive resting diameters of arterioles were significantly smaller in 12‐ and 24‐month rats than in 3‐month rats. Tissue levels of TBARS were not different among the three age groups.

Conclusions: Arteriolar tone and blood flow in resting skeletal muscle of rats is not altered with age, whereas the increases in these variables that normally accompany muscle contraction are markedly impaired during aging. Neither cyclooxygenase metabolites nor lipid peroxidation appear to be involved in this impairment.
Dynamics and toxicity of Anabaena aphanizomenoides (Cyanobacteria) waterblooms in the shallow brackish Oued Mellah lake (Morocco)
Authors: Sabour Brahim , Loudiki Mohammed , Oudra Brahim , Vasconcelos Vitor , Oubraim Said , Fawzi Brahim
Published: September 2005

The structure and abundance of phytoplankton communities were investigated during 1997 to 1999 in Oued Mellah, a shallow brackish and hypertrophic lake, with particular regard to Anabaena aphanizomenoides dynamics. Important events of algal blooms were observed mostly by the cyanobacteria Microcystis ichthyoblabe, Anabaena aphanizomenoides and Oscillatoria chlorina and by the ichthyotoxic haptophyceae Prymnesium parvum. Anabaena aphanizomenoides proliferated during late summer after the Microcystis ichthyoblabe blooms. The percentage of Anabaena aphanizomenoides of the phytoplankton biomass varied from 88 to 94 percent during bloom periods. Maximum biomass was 146 and 120 mg fresh weight l−1 during the 1997 and 1999 summer periods, respectively. The main environmental factors leading to the ecological success of A. aphanizomenoides were high temperature (25–28ˆC), high incident light intensities (1488–1912 μ E m−2 s−1, high nutrient deficiency (0 μ g P-PO−4 l−1; 0–0.18 mg N-NO3 l−1) and decrease of alkalinity (329–494 mg HCO3− l−1). The toxicity of the Anabaena aphanizomenoides bloom was evaluated by bioassays and analyses. The lethal dose50 of the bloom sample tested in mice was 254 mgDW kg−1 body weight while toxicity (24 h LC−50) in the brine shrimp Artemia salina was 3.68 mgDW ml−1. The low microcystin content (3.28 μ g gDW−1) determined by ELISA was not consistent with the tested bioassays and is suggestive of the presence of other toxic compounds in the bloom extracts. Four toxic fractions were separated by HPLC-PDA and identified as microcystins according to their UV spectra. The production of microcystins by Anabaena aphanizomenoides bloom was confirmed by the analysis of the isolated strain which, in Z8 medium under controlled laboratory conditions, produced three variants of microcystins, two of them being similar to those produced by the natural bloom.
Developing a research tradition consistent with the practices and values of counselling and psychotherapy: Why Counselling and Psychotherapy Research is necessary
Authors: McLeod John
Published: September 2005

Despite the general acknowledgement that it is important for counselling and psychotherapy practice to be informed by research, it is clear that in recent years a widening gap has emerged between research and practice. This paper briefly reviews some of the factors responsible for the current crisis in therapy research and offers a number of reasons why a healthy relationship between research and practice is necessary. It is suggested that, at present, there exists within psychology and social science a level of acceptance of pluralistic and innovative approaches to research, which may facilitate the emergence of a new genre of practitioner‐oriented inquiry in the field of counselling and psychotherapy. Some of the ways in which Counselling and Psychotherapy Research intends to contribute to this movement are described, for example the promotion of new forms of writing, use of information technology, and the creation of knowledge communities. Readers are invited to participate in this endeavour.
Evidence‐based practice: Accounting for the importance of the therapeutic relationship in UK National Health Service therapy provision
Authors: Paley Graham , Lawton Derek
Published: September 2005

It is argued that different models of therapy result in broadly similar outcomes and that the therapeutic relationship is the most important factor in relation to outcome. This paper presents some of the main findings from over 30 years of psychotherapy research. We discuss these findings in relation to current provision of therapy within the UK National Health Service (NHS) and express our fears that despite a culture of evidence‐based practice, this evidence is in danger of being ignored. We conclude by discussing some of the implications and challenges that this evidence presents to therapy researchers, policy makers, trainers and practitioners.
(Re)Searching for a client in two different worlds: Mind the research‐practice gap
Authors: Moodley Roy
Published: September 2005

A criticism voiced by counsellors and psychotherapists is that research does not truly reflect the complexities of therapy. Researchers, on the other hand, accuse practitioners of not attending to research findings and suggest that as a result they engage in an ill‐informed process. This polarised understanding can give rise to the situation where the client is missed, falling into the research‐practice gap. In reality the research‐practice gap gets smaller and smaller every time a practitioner employs — which is often the case — a complex and sophisticated construct system in search of a client's psychological distress. The metaphor of the ‘search’ seems to become a point of connection between the practitioner's search and the researcher's (re)search. As a way of exploring this issue, the paper briefly considers the research‐practice gap and the critique of current research. It argues that counsellors and psychotherapists are themselves engaging in research when they practise therapy since every counselling and psychotherapy session is basically a (re)search process.
Psychotherapy for lesbians: The influence of therapist sexuality
Authors: Ryden Julie , Loewenthal Del
Published: September 2005

This study explored the influence of therapist sexuality upon lesbian experiences of therapy, and particularly the influence of marginal and dominant discourses within the process. It is argued that explorations of discourses of sexuality should be a necessary feature of a psychotherapist's training. A postmodern feminist methodology — Bungay and Keddy's adaptation of Reinharz's experiential analysis — was used in the study. This method involved triangulation of interview, literature analysis and reflective diary methods, with analysis drawing upon a discourse analytic perspective. Two sites of contradiction were explored, indicating the possible emergence of resistant lesbian discourses against the dominant patriarchal, heterosexist and homophobic discourses. The study illustrates the discursive and contextual nature of psychotherapy with lesbians.
Hexachlorocyclohexane-degrading bacterial strains Sphingomonas paucimobilis B90A, UT26 and Sp+, having similar lin genes, represent three distinct species, Sphingobium indicum sp. nov., Sphingobium japonicum sp. nov. and Sphingobium francense sp. nov., and reclassification of [Sphingomonas] chungbukensis as Sphingobium chungbukense comb. nov.
Authors: Pal Rinku , Bala Shashi , Dadhwal Mandeep , Kumar Mukesh , Dhingra Gauri , Prakash Om , Prabagaran S. R. , Shivaji S. , Cullum John , Holliger Christof , Lal Rup
Published: September 2005

Three strains of Sphingomonas paucimobilis, B90A, UT26 and Sp+, isolated from different geographical locations, were found to degrade hexachlorocyclohexane. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that these strains do not fall in a clade that includes the type strain, Sphingomonas paucimobilis ATCC 29837T, but form a coherent cluster with [Sphingomonas] chungbukensis IMSNU 11152T followed by Sphingobium chlorophenolicum ATCC 33790T. The three strains showed low DNA–DNA relatedness values with Sphingomonas paucimobilis ATCC 29837T (8–25 %), [Sphingomonas] chungbukensis IMSNU 11152T (10–17 %), Sphingobium chlorophenolicum ATCC 33790T (23–54 %) and Sphingomonas xenophaga DSM 6383T (10–28 %), indicating that they do not belong to any of these species. Although the three strains were found to be closely related to each other based on 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity (99·1–99·4 %), DNA–DNA relatedness (19–59 %) and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) patterns indicated that they possibly represent three novel species of the genus Sphingobium. The three strains could also be readily distinguished by biochemical tests. The three strains showed similar polar lipid profiles and contained sphingoglycolipids. The strains differed from each other in fatty acid composition but contained the predominant fatty acids characteristic of other Sphingobium species. A phylogenetic study based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that [Sphingomonas] chungbukensis IMSNU 11152T formed a cluster with members of the genus Sphingobium. Based on these results, it is proposed that strains B90A, UT26 and Sp+, previously known as Sphingomonas paucimobilis, are the type strains of Sphingobium indicum sp. nov. (=MTCC 6364T=CCM 7286T), Sphingobium japonicum sp. nov. (=MTCC 6362T=CCM 7287T) and Sphingobium francense sp. nov. (=MTCC 6363T=CCM 7288T), respectively. It is also proposed that [Sphingomonas] chungbukensis be transferred to Sphingobium chungbukense comb. nov.
Methylohalobius crimeensis gen. nov., sp. nov., a moderately halophilic, methanotrophic bacterium isolated from hypersaline lakes of Crimea
Authors: Heyer Jürgen , Berger Ursula , Hardt Martin , Dunfield Peter F.
Published: September 2005

A novel genus and species are proposed for two strains of methanotrophic bacteria isolated from hypersaline lakes in the Crimean Peninsula of Ukraine. Strains 10KiT and 4Kr are moderate halophiles that grow optimally at 1–1·5 M (5·8–8·7 %, w/v) NaCl and tolerate NaCl concentrations from 0·2 M up to 2·5 M (1·2–15 %). This optimum and upper limit are the highest for any methanotrophic bacterium known to date. The strains are Gram-negative, aerobic, non-pigmented, motile, coccoid to spindle-shaped bacteria that grow on methane or methanol only and utilize the ribulose monophosphate pathway for carbon assimilation. They are neutrophilic (growth occurs only in the range pH 6·5–7·5) and mesophilic (optimum growth occurs at 30 °C). On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence phylogeny, strains 10KiT and 4Kr represent a type I methanotroph within the ‘Gammaproteobacteria’. However, the 16S rRNA gene sequence displays <91·5 % identity to any public-domain sequence. The most closely related methanotrophic bacterium is the thermophilic strain HB. The DNA G+C content is 58·7 mol%. The major phospholipid fatty acids are 18 : 1ω7 (52–61 %), 16 : 0 (22–23 %) and 16 : 1ω7 (14–20 %). The dominance of 18 : 1 over 16 : 0 and 16 : 1 fatty acids is unique among known type I methanotrophs. The data suggest that strains 10KiT and 4Kr should be considered as belonging to a novel genus and species of type I methanotrophic bacteria, for which the name Methylohalobius crimeensis gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. Strain 10KiT (=DSM 16011T=ATCC BAA-967T) is the type strain.
Planifilum fimeticola gen. nov., sp. nov. and Planifilum fulgidum sp. nov., novel members of the family ‘Thermoactinomycetaceae’ isolated from compost
Authors: Hatayama Kouta , Shoun Hirofumi , Ueda Yasuichi , Nakamura Akira
Published: September 2005

Four thermophilic, Gram-positive strains, designated H0165T, 500275T, C0170 and 700375, were isolated from a composting process in Japan. The isolates grew aerobically at about 65 °C on a solid medium with formation of substrate mycelia; spores were produced singly along the mycelia. These morphological characters resembled those of some type strains of species belonging to the family ‘Thermoactinomycetaceae’, except that aerial mycelia were not formed. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the closest related species to the isolates were members of the family ‘Thermoactinomycetaceae’, but that the isolates formed an independent phylogenetic lineage. Some chemotaxonomic characters of the isolates, such as DNA G+C contents of 58·7–60·3 mol%, MK-7 as the major menaquinone and cellular fatty acid profiles, differed from those of members of the family ‘Thermoactinomycetaceae’. DNA–DNA hybridization showed that the isolates could be divided into two genomic groups, strain H0165T and the other three strains. These results indicated that the four isolates should be classified into two species of a novel genus in the family ‘Thermoactinomycetaceae’, for which the names Planifilum fimeticola gen. nov., sp. nov. (type strain H0165T=ATCC BAA-969T=JCM 12507T) and Planifilum fulgidum sp. nov. (type strain 500275T=ATCC BAA-970T=JCM 12508T) are proposed.
Streptomyces bangladeshensis sp. nov., isolated from soil, which produces bis-(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate
Authors: Al-Bari M. Abdul Alim , Bhuiyan M. Shah Alam , Flores María Elena , Petrosyan Pavel , García-Varela Martín , Islam M. Anwar Ul
Published: September 2005

The taxonomic position of an actinomycete strain isolated from soil from Natore, Bangladesh, was examined by using a polyphasic approach. The strain, designated AAB-4T, was assigned to the genus Streptomyces on the basis of chemical and morphological criteria. It formed Rectiflexibiles aerial hyphae that carried long chains of rounded spores. The 16S rRNA gene of strain AAB-4T was sequenced directly and then compared with those of previously studied streptomycetes following the generation of two phylogenetic trees by using maximum-likelihood and neighbour-joining algorithms. This confirmed the assignment of the novel strain to the genus Streptomyces. This strain showed a high level of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to Streptomyces thermoviolaceus, Streptomyces thermodiastaticus and Streptomyces longisporus, among others, but could be distinguished from them by phenotypic and physiological traits. This micro-organism produces bis-(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, an antibacterial and antifungal agent. It is proposed that strain AAB-4T be classified as a novel species within the genus Streptomyces, as Streptomyces bangladeshensis sp. nov. (type strain, AAB-4T=LMG 22738T=NRRL B-24326T).
Virgibacillus dokdonensis sp. nov., isolated from a Korean island, Dokdo, located at the edge of the East Sea in Korea
Authors: Yoon Jung-Hoon , Kang So-Jung , Lee Soo-Young , Lee Mi-Hwa , Oh Tae-Kwang
Published: September 2005

A Gram-variable, motile, endospore-forming, slightly halophilic bacterial strain, DSW-10T, was isolated from Dokdo, an island located at the edge of the East Sea, Korea, and was characterized taxonomically by using a polyphasic approach. This isolate grew optimally at 37 °C and in the presence of 4–5 % NaCl. Strain DSW-10T had cell-wall peptidoglycan based on meso-diaminopimelic acid, MK-7 as the predominant menaquinone, and anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 0, anteiso-C17 : 0 and iso-C16 : 0 as major fatty acids. Major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and unidentified phospholipids. The DNA G+C content was 36·7 mol%. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain DSW-10T is phylogenetically affiliated to the genus Virgibacillus, and exhibited sequence similarity of 95·3–98·7 % to the type strains of Virgibacillus species. DNA–DNA relatedness levels between strain DSW-10T and the type strains of some phylogenetically related Virgibacillus species were in the range 8·4–17·5 %. On the basis of phenotypic properties and phylogenetic and genetic distinctiveness, strain DSW-10T (=KCTC 3933T=DSM 16826T) was classified as the type strain of a novel Virgibacillus species, for which the name Virgibacillus dokdonensis sp. nov. is proposed.
Phylogenetic positions of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris' and Spiroplasma kunkelii as inferred from multiple sets of concatenated core housekeeping proteins
Authors: Zhao Yan , Davis Robert E. , Lee Ing-Ming
Published: September 2005

Phytopathogenic mollicutes, which include spiroplasmas and phytoplasmas, are cell wall-less bacteria that parasitize plant hosts and insect vectors. Knowledge of the evolution of these agents is important in understanding their biology. The availability of the first complete phytoplasma and several partial spiroplasma and phytoplasma genome sequences made possible an investigation of evolutionary relationships between phytopathogenic mollicutes and other micro-organisms, especially Gram-positive bacteria, using a comparative genomics approach. Genome data from a total of 41 bacterial species were used in the analysis. Sixty-one conserved proteins were selected from each species for the construction of a hypothetical phylogenetic tree. The genes encoding these selected proteins are among a core of genetic elements that constitute a hypothetical minimal genome. The proteins were concatenated into five superproteins according to their functional categories, and phylogenetic trees were reconstructed using distance, parsimony and likelihood methods. Phylogenetic trees based on the five sets of concatenated proteins were congruent in both clade topology and relative branching length.Spiroplasma kunkeliiand phytoplasmas clustered together with other mollicutes, forming a monophyletic group. Phytoplasmas diverged from spiroplasmas and mycoplasmas at early stages in the evolution of mollicutes. Branch lengths on the phylogenetic trees were noticeably longer in theMollicutesclade, suggesting that the genes encoding the five sets of proteins evolved at a greater rate in this clade than in other clades. This observation reinforces the concept that mollicutes have rapidly evolving genomes.
Methylothermus thermalis gen. nov., sp. nov., a novel moderately thermophilic obligate methanotroph from a hot spring in Japan
Authors: Tsubota Jun , Eshinimaev Bulat Ts. , Khmelenina Valentina N. , Trotsenko Yuri A.
Published: September 2005

A novel moderately thermophilic methanotroph, strain MYHTT, was isolated from a hot spring in Japan. The isolate grew on methane or methanol at 37–67 °C, and optimally at 57–59 °C. It was found to be a Gram-negative aerobe, with colourless colonies of non-motile coccoid cells, possessing type I intracytoplasmic membranes and regularly arranged surface layers of linear (p2) symmetry. Strain MYHTT expressed only the particulate methane monooxygenase and employed the ribulose monophosphate pathway for formaldehyde assimilation. It is a neutrophilic and halotolerant organism capable of growth at pH 6·5–7·5 (optimum pH 6·8) and in up to 3 % NaCl (optimum 0·5–1 % NaCl). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that strain MYHTT is most closely related to the thermophilic undescribed methanotroph ‘Methylothermus’ HB (91 % identity) and the novel halophilic methanotroph Methylohalobius crimeensis 10KiT (90 % identity). Comparative sequence analysis of particulate methane monooxygenase (pmoA) genes also confirmed the clustering of strain MYHTT with ‘Methylothermus’ HB and Methylohalobius crimeensis 10KiT (98 and 92 % derived amino acid sequence identity, respectively). The DNA G+C content was 62·5 mol%. The major cellular fatty acids were C16 : 0 (37·2 %) and C18 : 1
ω9c (35·2 %) and the major polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylglycerol. The major ubiquinone was Q-8. On the basis of comparative phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, a new genus and species, Methylothermus thermalis gen. nov., sp. nov., is proposed, with MYHTT as the type strain (=VKM B-2345T=IPOD FERM P-19714T).
Devosia limi sp. nov., isolated from a nitrifying inoculum
Authors: Vanparys Bram , Heylen Kim , Lebbe Liesbeth , De Vos Paul
Published: September 2005

A Gram-negative, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming bacteria was isolated from a nitrifying inoculum. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, this strain, designated LMG 22951T, was shown to belong to the ‘Alphaproteobacteria’ and to be related to Devosia neptuniae (97·4 %) and Devosia riboflavina (97·0 %). The results of DNA–DNA hybridization, analysis of fatty acid composition, SDS-PAGE, physiological and biochemical tests allowed genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of LMG 22951T from the two recognized Devosia species. LMG 22951T therefore represents a novel species within this genus, for which the name Devosia limi is proposed. The type strain is LMG 22951T (=DSM 17137T).
Fluviicola taffensis gen. nov., sp. nov., a novel freshwater bacterium of the family Cryomorphaceae in the phylum ‘Bacteroidetes’
Authors: O'Sullivan Louise A. , Rinna Joachim , Humphreys Gavin , Weightman Andrew J. , Fry John C.
Published: September 2005

A novel, strictly aerobic, Gram-negative, yellow–orange-pigmented, motile, catalase-positive, oxidase-negative bacterium, RW262T, was isolated from water of the River Taff, Cardiff, UK, during January 2000. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene indicated that strain RW262T was a member of the family Cryomorphaceae within the phylum ‘Bacteroidetes’. The DNA G+C content of strain RW262T was 37·2 mol%. The predominant fatty acid was the branched-chain saturated fatty acid i15 : 0 (44·2 %). On the basis of polyphasic analysis of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, genotypic and phylogenetic characteristics, it is proposed that this freshwater bacterium represents a novel genus and species within the family Cryomorphaceae, Fluviicola taffensis gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain is RW262T (=NCIMB 13979T=DSM 16823T).
ATM and ATR make distinct contributions to chromosome end protection and the maintenance of telomeric DNA in Arabidopsis
Authors: Vespa Laurent , Couvillion Mary , Spangler Elizabeth , Shippen Dorothy E.
Published: September 2005

Here we examine the function of ATM and ATR at telomeres in Arabidopsis. Although plants lacking ATM or ATR display wild-type telomere length homeostasis, chromosome end protection is compromised in atm atr mutants. Moreover, atm tert Arabidopsis experience an abrupt, early onset of genome instability, arguing that ATM is required for protection of short telomeres. ATR, by contrast, is required for maintenance of telomeric DNA as telomere shortening is dramatically accelerated in atr tert mutants relative to tert plants. Thus, ATM and ATR make essential and distinct contributions to chromosome end protection and telomere maintenance in higher eukaryotes.
The global regulator H-NS acts directly on the transpososome to promote Tn10 transposition
Authors: Wardle Simon J. , O'Carroll Michelle , Derbyshire Keith M. , Haniford David B.
Published: September 2005

The histone-like nucleoid structuring (H-NS) protein is a global transcriptional regulator that is known to regulate stress response pathways and virulence genes in bacteria. It has also been implicated in the regulation of bacterial transposition systems, including Tn10. We demonstrate here that H-NS promotes Tn10 transposition by binding directly to the transposition complex (or transpososome). We present evidence that, upon binding, H-NS induces the unfolding of the Tn10 transpososome and helps to maintain the transpososome in an unfolded state. This ensures that intermolecular (as opposed to self-destructive intramolecular) transposition events are favored. We present evidence that H-NS binding to the flanking donor DNA of the transpososome is the initiating event in the unfolding process. We propose that by recruiting H-NS as a modulator of transposition, Tn10 has evolved a means of sensing changes in host physiology, as the amount of H-NS in the cell, as well its activity, are responsive to changes in environmental conditions. Sensing of environmental changes through H-NS would allow transposition to occur when it is most opportune for both the transposon and the host.
CXCR4andGab1cooperate to control the development of migrating muscle progenitor cells
Authors: Vasyutina Elena , Stebler Jürg , Brand-Saberi Beate , Schulz Stefan , Raz Erez , Birchmeier Carmen
Published: September 2005

Long-range migrating progenitor cells generate hypaxial muscle, for instance the muscle of the limbs, hypoglossal cord, and diaphragm. We show here that migrating muscle progenitors express the chemokine receptorCXCR4. The corresponding ligand,SDF1, is expressed in limb and branchial arch mesenchyme; i.e., along the routes and at the targets of the migratory cells. Ectopic application of SDF1 in the chick limb attracts muscle progenitor cells. InCXCR4mutant mice, the number of muscle progenitors that colonize the anlage of the tongue and the dorsal limb was reduced. Changes in the distribution of the muscle progenitor cells were accompanied by increased apoptosis, indicating that CXCR4 signals provide not only attractive cues but also control survival.Gab1encodes an adaptor protein that transduces signals elicited by tyrosine kinase receptors, for instance the c-Met receptor, and plays a role in the migration of muscle progenitor cells. We found thatCXCR4andGab1interact genetically. For instance, muscle progenitors do not reach the anlage of the tongue inCXCR4;Gab1double mutants; this target is colonized in either of the single mutants. Our analysis reveals a role of SDF1/CXCR4 signaling in the development of migrating muscle progenitors and shows that a threshold number of progenitor cells is required to generate muscle of appropriate size.
Association of angiotensin‐converting enzyme gene polymorphism with pregnancy‐induced hypertension
Authors: Kaur Rajpal , Jain Vanita , Khuller Madhu , Gupta Indu , Sherawat Badan Singh
Published: September 2005

Background.  To investigate the potential association of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) gene polymorphism and serum ACE activity with pregnancy‐induced hypertension (PIH).

Methods.  The ACE genotype was identified and serum ACE activity was measured in 50 primigravidae with PIH and 50 normotensive primigravidae. These subjects were followed up to delivery and perinatal outcome noted.

Results.  ACE DD genotype was found in 60% of subjects with PIH but only in 30% of normotensive subjects (P = 0.004). The odds ratio for developing hypertension in subjects with DD genotype was 3.5. The incidence of D allele of ACE gene was significantly higher in hypertensive subjects (0.74) than in normotensive subjects (0.56, P = 0.011). The odds ratio for developing hypertension in subjects with D allele was 2.24. However, the ACE genotype was similar in different categories of PIH and did not affect the perinatal outcome. The mean ACE activity in the hypertensive subjects (32.4 IU/l) and the normotensive subjects (23.7 IU/l) was similar (P = 0.092). The ACE activity did not differ significantly according to ACE genotype.

Conclusions.  We noticed an excess of DD genotype and D allele in ACE gene in PIH. However, this polymorphism does not correlate with the severity of hypertension or perinatal outcome. Serum ACE levels do not correlate with the ACE gene polymorphism or the development of PIH.
Sexual behavior and activity in Chinese pregnant women
Authors: Fok Wing Yee , Chan Louis Yik‐Si , Yuen Pong Mo
Published: September 2005

Objective.  To evaluate sexual activities, attitudes, and complications related to intercourse among Chinese pregnant women and to study their source of the information.

Methods.  This was a prospective cross‐sectional study. Two hundred and ninety‐eight Chinese pregnant women were recruited. Pregnant women completed a self‐administered questionnaire anonymously. Their sexual experience and sexuality were analyzed and compared among trimesters. Multiple logistic regression was used to assess the association of various factors with a number of outcomes concerning the sexuality in pregnancy.

Results.  Ninety‐three percent of the pregnant women reported an overall reduction in their sexual activities during pregnancy. Among these activities, vaginal intercourse significantly decreased in the third trimester. Besides gestation, advanced maternal age and nulliparity were independent factors associated with the reduction of vaginal intercourse (P < 0.001). Moreover, over 60% of the women, as well as more than 40% of their partners, had reduction in sexual desire and enjoyment during pregnancy. Over 80% of the women and their partners worried about the adverse effects of sexual activity on the fetus. However, less than 12% of them experienced complications after coitus during pregnancy. Among them, only 9.4% discussed sexuality with their doctors and half of them raised up this topic by themselves.

Conclusion.  Chinese pregnant women had less sexual activities and desire during pregnancy. Culture, inadequate knowledge, and excessive anxiety are likely the important factors for the marked reduction in sexuality in Chinese couples. Medical staffs should take a proactive role in providing more information to relieve their anxiety.
Behçet's disease and pregnancy
Authors: Jadaon Jim , Shushan Asher , Ezra Yossef , Sela Hen Y. , Ozcan Cuneyt , Rojansky Nathan
Published: September 2005

Background.  Behçet's disease (BD) is a multisystem inflammatory chronic disorder, which is characterized by relapsing oral and genital ulceration and iridocyclitis. While being of unknown etiology, vasculitic changes of possible autoimmune origin are common to all involved organs, and thrombotic complications, which may adversely affect gestation, are frequently seen. Very little is known to date about the reciprocal influence of BD and pregnancy. We have undertaken to explore the mutual effect of BD and pregnancy with emphasis on maternal and fetal complications.

Methods.  In this case–control study, we have evaluated pregnancies that occurred in women suffering from BD, who were treated in our institution during the last 25 years. All records were reviewed, and data were confirmed by a telephone interview and compared with a matched control group. To review the current knowledge, a Medline search together with a manual search of selected articles was performed.

Results.  Thirty‐one Behçet's patients who had 135 pregnancies were studied. Remissions were significantly more frequent during both pregnancy and postpartum periods, while exacerbations were observed only in one‐sixth of the patients (P < 0.001). Pregnancy complications (P < 0.001), cesarean section (P < 0.001), and miscarriage (P < 0.02) rates, however, were significantly higher in the study group.

Conclusions.  Our study suggests that pregnancy does not have a deleterious effect on the course of BD and may possibly ameliorate its course. However, it seems that BD may adversely affect pregnancy. The miscarriage rate was higher, and the pregnancy complications and cesarean section rates were significantly elevated.
Hot flashes revisited: Pharmacological and herbal options for hot flashes management. What does the evidence tell us?
Authors: Haimov‐Kochman Ronit , Hochner‐Celnikier Drorith
Published: September 2005

Background.  Hot flashes are the most frequent symptoms of menopause and the most common reason for climacteric women seeking medical advice. Estrogen therapy is by far the most effective therapy. However, fears of side‐effect of estrogen therapy urged many patients to seek alternative modalities for symptomatic relief.

Methods.  The MEDLINE database for the years 1975–2004 was searched for clinical placebo‐controlled trials for the treatment of hot flashes with alternative therapy. Articles reporting the use of progesterone, alpha adrenergic agonists, anti‐depressants, anti‐convulsants, soy products, black cohosh (BC), red clover, dong quai, ginseng root, evening primrose oil, vitamin E, and wild yam were included.

Results and conclusions.  A critical review of the literature shows that progesterone may have an independent effect on relieving hot flashes. New nonhormonal agents such as selective serotonin‐uptake‐inhibitor anti‐depressants and a new anti‐convulsant gabapentin yielded promising results on small well‐conducted studies. Isoflavone's effect on hot flashes is variable and inconsistent, and only modest and delayed improvement of symptoms could be expected by BC and vitamin E. There are insufficient data on the other herbal alternative therapies at this time. Well‐designed large studies are needed to further explore new modalities of treatment.