bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunocytogenetics
Authors: Haaf T. , Dominguez-Steglich M. , Schmid M.
Published: May 2008

We report here a novel class of human autoantibodies with immunological affinity for constitutive heterochromatin. Indirect immunofluorescence localized different proteinaceous antigens to the AT-rich paracentromeric heterochromatin of mouse chromosomes, the GC-rich heterochromatic regions of sheep chromosomes, and the large C-banded regions of human chromosomes 1, 9, and 16. Minor amounts of the heterochromatin-associated proteins were uniformly distributed on the chromosomes of all vertebrate species. Their antigenic determinants have been highly conserved during evolution. The chromosomal distribution of the heterochromatin-associated antigens is not altered in interspecific somatic cell hybrids but apparently reflects a stable structural property germane to each chromosome type. The antigenic proteins remain bound to their respective epitopes throughout the entire cell cycle and in meiosis. The heterochromatin-associated antigens represent a major nonhistone component of the mitotic chromosome scaffold and the interphase nuclear matrix. Immunoblotting performed with a human autoimmune serum to mouse heterochromatin revealed a characteristic pattern of polypeptides with molecular weights ranging from 35 to 120 kDal. Drugs that interfere in vivo with the higher-order chromatin structure had no effect on the expression and chromosomal distribution of the heterochromatin-associated antigens. However, the antibody binding sites in chromatin can be completely masked by treating fixed cell preparations with certain DNA-binding ligands.
Chromosomal assignment and regional localization of myeloperoxidase in the mouse
Authors: Robinson T.J. , Morris D.J. , Ledbetter D.H.
Published: May 2008

Using a rat × mouse somatic cell hybrid that contains chromosome 11 as the only mouse material, we have shown that myeloperoxidase, which maps to human chromosome 17, maps to mouse chromosome 11. Regional assignment of the gene by in situ hybridization localized Mpo to the region C-El, with a peak at band 11C. These results further confirm and extend observations on the remarkable homology between human chromosome 17 and mouse 11.
Mapping of the phosphorylase kinase alpha subunit gene on the mouse X chromosome
Authors: Barnard P.J. , Derry J.M.J. , Ryder-Cook A.S. , Zander N.F. , Kilimann M.W.
Published: May 2008

Phosphorylase kinase is a glycogenolytic enzyme in several animal tissues. Within the last few years all four subunits of the enzyme have been cloned. The β, γ, and δ subunits are known to be autosomal. We have mapped the α subunit of phosphorylase kinase, recently cloned by Zander et al. (1988), in an interspecific mouse pedigree and localized it on the X chromosome, where it maps between the X-linked zinc finger protein and phosphogly cerate kinase genes, close to the latter. In man and mouse several X-linked disorders of this enzyme have been described. Although the X-linked phosphorylase kinase deficiency in mice may be caused by a mutation in the structural gene for the α subunit, mapped here, the existence of a separate regulatory locus, important in the normal expression or function of the enzyme in muscle, still remains a possibility.
Localization of the murine methylmalonyl CoA mutase (Mut) locus on chromosome 17 by in situ hybridization
Authors: Threadgill D.W. , Wilkemeyer M. , Womack J.E. , Ledley F.D.
Published: May 2008

Murine methylmalonyl CoA mutase (Mut) has been localized to chromosome 17C-D by in situ hybridization in cell lines containing a 2.17 Robertsonian translocation. This locus, which was mapped with the help of a murine methylmalonyl CoA mutase cDNA probe, and others on murine chromosome 17 are syntenic, though not necessarily colinear, with loci on human chromosome 6.
Rapid detection of chromosome 16 inversion in acute nonlymphocytic leukemia, subtype M4: regional localization of the breakpoint in 16p
Authors: Dauwerse J.G. , Kievits T. , Beverstock G.C. , van der Keur D. , Smit E. , Wessels H.W. , Hagemeijer A. , Pearson P.L. , van Ommen C.-J.B. , Breaming M.H.
Published: May 2008

The pericentric inversion of chromosome 16 characteristic for acute nonlymphocytic leukemia, subtype M4, was detected in five patients by means of nonradioactive in situ hybridization of complete cosmids. First, five cosmids situated along the short arm of chromosome 16 were used to map the breakpoint of the inversion distal to the rare folate-sensitive fragile site FRA16A. Then, the use of two cosmids on either side of the breakpoint, combined with a probe specific for the centromeric region of chromosome 16, readily detected the inversion, even in poor metaphase spreads.
Assignment of cathepsin E (CTSE) to human chromosome region 1q31 by in situ hybridization and analysis of somatic cell hybrids
Authors: Couvreur J.M. , Azuma T. , Miller D.A. , Rocchi M. , Mohandas T.K. , Boudi F.A. , Taggart R.T.
Published: May 2008

A full length cathepsin E (CTSE) cDNA clone was used to assign the corresponding gene to human chromosome region 1q31 by in situ hybridization. Southern blot analysis of DN A from three independent human × rodent somatic cell hybrids containing X; 1 translocations confirmed the assignment of the CTSE gene to the distal region of the long arm of chromosome 1.
Immunoglobulin heavy chain and α T-cell receptor genes rearrange in T-cell leukemia associated with a t(14;14) (q11.2;q32) translocation
Authors: Jhanwar S.C. , de Sostoa A. , Doucette L.A. , Posnett D.N.
Published: May 2008

We report here a cytogenetic and molecular analysis of two cases of T-cell leukemia with t(14;14) (q11.2;q32). Through in situ hybridization and Southern blotting, using radioactively labeled immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) and α T-cell receptor (TCRA) gene probes, we found in both tumors that the loci of both IGH and TCRA were rearranged. Molecular analysis of the t(14; 14) clearly demonstrated that in some tumors rearrangements of the IGH and TCRA genes are associated with interchromosomal exchanges that result in specific chromosome translocations that confer a proliferative advantage and predisposition to leukemic transformation. The implication of these rearrangements for normal and neoplastic T-cell development is discussed.
Chromosomal localization of two human genes inducible by interferons, double-stranded RNA, and viruses
Authors: Clauss I.M. , Wathelet M.G. , Szpirer J. , Content J. , Islam M.Q. , Levan G. , Szpirer C. , Huez G.A.
Published: May 2008

Human IFI-15K and 6–16 genes are transcriptionally stimulated by interferons, double-stranded RNA, and viruses. By screening a cDNA library with oligodeoxynucleotide probes, we ave isolated complete copies corresponding to these two genes. These cDNA clones allowed us to localize the IFI-15K and 6–16 genes on human chromosome 1 by somatic cell hybridization.
The human tyrosine kinase gene (FER) maps to chromosome 5 and is deleted in myeloid leukemias with a del(5q)
Authors: Morris C. , Heisterkamp N. , Hao Q.L. , Testa J.R. , Groffen J.
Published: May 2008

A novel member of the SRC tyrosine kinase gene family was recently isolated and characterized (Hao et al., 1989). This FES/FPS-related gene, named FER, lacks the transmembrane and extracellular domains which characterize tyrosine kinases with receptor function. Expression of FER in a wide range of cell types indicates a general role in intracellular signalling or differentiation processes. We have now mapped FER to chromosome 5q14→q23 using in situ hybridization techniques and sug gest a more precise location within bands 5q21→q22. This region lies adjacent to a complex domain of growth factors and receptors, many involved in regulation of haematopoiesis. FER maps within a critical segment frequently deleted from chromosome 5 in patients with acute myeloid leukemia or myelodysplastic syndromes and was shown to be deleted in two such patients. It also maps close to the familial polyposis coli locus at 5q22.
Four genes for the calpain family locate on four distinct human chromosomes
Authors: Ohno S. , Minoshima S. , Kudoh J. , Fukuyama R. , Shimizu Y. , Ohmi-Imajohs S. , Shimizu N. , Suzuki K.
Published: May 2008

Calcium dependent proteases (calpains, CAPNs, E.C.3.4.22.17) constitute a family of proteins which share a homologous cysteine-protease domain (large subunits, L1 L2, and L3) and an E-F hand Ca2+-binding domain (L1, L2, L3, and small subunit, S). We have mapped the genes for four calpain proteins (L1 L2, L3, and S) on four distinct human chromosomes by a combination of spot-blot hybridization to flow-sorted chromosomes and Southern hybridization of DNAs from a human × mouse hybrid cell panel. The genes for calpain L1 (CAPNl, large subunit of calpain I), L2 (CAPN2, large subunit of calpain II), L3 (CAPN3, a protein related to the large subunits), and S (CAPN4, a small subunit common to calpains I and II) were assigned to human chromosomes 11, 1, 15, and 19, respectively.
Localization of the human T lymphocyte activation gene 519 (D2S69E) to chromosome 2p12→q11
Authors: Donlon T.A. , Krensky A.M. , Clayberger C.
Published: May 2008

In situ hybridization was used to localize the lymphocyte activation gene 519 (D2S69E) on human metaphase chromosomes. A significant proportion of the grains were situated over chromosome 2p1→q11, a region which contains other genes involved in immunologic functions.
Combined GTG-banding and nonradioactive in situ hybridization improves characterization of complex karyotypes
Authors: Smit V.T.H.B.M. , Wessels J.W. , Mollevanger P. , Schrier P.I. , Raap A.K. , Beverstock G.C. , Cornelisse C.J.
Published: May 2008

Nonradioactive in situ hybridization (ISH) using bio-tinylated centromere probes for chromosomes 1, 6, 7, 10, 16, 17, 18, and the X, respectively, was combined with GTG-banding to study cytogenetic changes in two different ovarian cancer cell lines. ISH was performed after GTG-banding on the same metaphase. The use of a low trypsin concentration (0.01%) in the banding procedure was essential for subsequent ISH. This combined approach allows the detection of subtle chromosomal rearrangements and appears to aid the identification of marker chromosomes.
XYY spermatogenesis in XO/XY/XYY mosaic mice
Authors: Palmer S.J. , Mahadevaiah S.K. , Burgoyne P.S.
Published: May 2008

The relative frequencies of XYY and XY cells in XO/ XY/XYY mosaic mice were compared between somatic cells (bone marrow) and spermatogonia, and between spermatogonia and pachytene or MI spermatocytes. The results indicated there was no selection either for or against XYY spermatogonia. There was, however, a strong selection against XYY spermatocytes during pachytene, with their almost total elimination by the first meiotic metaphase. At pachytene, most XYY cells had trivalent or X univalent/YY bivalent configurations. These findings are contrasted with previous studies of XYY spermatogenesis in mice and are discussed with respect to a model that invokes sex-chromosome univalence as the cause of XYY spermatogenic failure.
Localization of the human sex hormone-binding globulin gene (SHBG) to the short arm of chromosome 17 (17p12→p13)
Authors: Bérubé D. , Séralini G.E. , Gagné R. , Hammond G.L.
Published: May 2008

Human sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is a plasma steroid transport protein which is known to be encoded by an autosomal gene. We have hybridized two separate cDNA probes, corresponding to the 5’ and 3’ portions of the coding sequence for SHBG, to human metaphase chromosomes in situ. In this way, the SHBG gene has been localized to the p12→p13 bands of chromosome 17.
Localization of the insulin receptor-related receptor gene to human chromosome 1
Authors: Shier P. , Willard H.F. , Watt V.M.
Published: May 2008

DNA encoding the insulin receptor-related receptor (1RR), a novel receptor whose predicted primary structure is similar to those of the insulin and insulin-like growth factor I receptors, has been used in Southern blot analysis of DNA from human × mouse somatic cell hybrids to assign the IRR gene (INSRR) to human chromosome 1.
Mapping of the human type II collagen gene (COL2A1) proximal to fra(12)(q13.1) by nonisotopic in situ hybridization
Authors: Takahashi E. , Hori T. , Sutherland G.R.
Published: May 2008

The human type II collagen gene (COL2A1) was mapped to chromosome 12 immediately proximal to fra(12)(q13.1) by the technique of nonisotopic (biotinylated) in situ hybridization. Thus, the COL2A1 gene was confirmed to be at the subband 12q13.11→q13.12, in agreement with previous reports. These results are not in agreement with the localization (12q14.3) cited in Ropers and Craig (1989).
Localization on pig chromosome 6 of markers GPI, APOE, and ENO1, carried by human chromosomes 1 and 19, using in situ hybridization
Authors: Yerle M. , Gellin J. , Dalens M. , Galman O.
Published: May 2008

In the pig, the linkage group around the halothane gene (HAL), composed of S-GPI-HAL-H-A1BG-PGD, has been assigned to bands p1.2→q2.2 of chromosome 6. In man, ENOl-PGD and APOE-GPI constitute two syntenic groups situated on different chromosomes (1 and 19, respectively). Since GPI and PGD are linked in the pig, we have hybridized the human cDNA probes for ENO1and APOE to pig chromosomes. These markers were assigned to pig chromosome 6, in the q2.2→q2.4 and cen→q2.1 regions, respectively, using in situ hybridization. Since GPI and APOE are situated in the same region, we combined the use of high resolution chromosome analysis and in situ hybridization to give a more precise localization in the q1.2 and q1.2→q2.1.2 regions of chromosome 6. A possible linear order of these genes is proposed.
Assignment of the porcine growth hormone gene to chromosome 12
Authors: Thomsen P.D. , Fredholm M. , Christensen K. , Schwerin M.
Published: May 2008

The porcine growth hormone gene was mapped to the p11→qter region of chromosome 12 with a porcine growth hormone DNA sequence using in situ hybridization and using Southern blot analysis and cytogenetic characterization of a pig × rodent hybrid cell line panel.
Cytogenetic analysis of human solid tumors by in situ hybridization with a set of 12 chromosome-specific DNA probes
Authors: van Dekken H. , Pizzolo J.G. , Reuter V.E. , Melamed M.R.
Published: May 2008

We have applied fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) to assess the presence of numerical chromosome aberrations in fresh specimens of human solid tumors of varying histology. For this purpose, a set of 12 biotinylated chromosome-specific, repetitive alpha-satellite DNA probes (for chromosomes 1,6,7,9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, X, and Y) were hybridized directly to isolated interphase nuclei. Utilizing this approach, we found numerical chromosome changes in all tumors. FISH ploidy profiles were in accordance with flow cytometric DNA histograms of these tumor cells.
Immunocytogenetics
Authors: Haaf T. , Dominguez-Steglich M. , Schmid M.
Published: May 2008

We report a nonhistone antigen to be cell type-specifically associated with constitutive heterochromatin. Human autoantibodies were used to analyze by indirect immunofluorescence the pattern of association of the antigenic protein with the heterochromatin of murine chromosomes, as well as those of other representative vertebrate species. The evolutionary stability of its cell type-specific distribution pattern suggests that this nonhistone antigen plays an important role in the structure and/or function of constitutive heterochromatin. In mitotic chromosomes, the antigen was localized to discrete granules scattered throughout the entire chromatin. These structural elements may function as condensation centers, with each granule representing an aggregation of anchoring complexes for the chromatin loops.
Cell proliferation in chorionic villi at different gestational ages, as analyzed by premature chromosome condensation
Authors: Raabe G. , Miller K.
Published: May 2008

The technique of premature chromosome condensation (PCC) was adapted to human first-trimester chorionic villi cells to analyze the cell-cycle kinetics of interphase chromatin. Uncultured cells of the cytotrophoblast (CT) and the mesenchymal core (MC) were obtained by a two-step digestion. PCC was induced by fusion of the chorionic interphase cells with mitotic Chinese hamster ovary or HeLa cells. Cells showing PCC in G, (classes 1–6), S, and G2 were found. To analyze further the proliferation stages of chorionic G, interphases, the proliferation potential index (PPI) of 34 placentae recovered between the 8th and 12th week of gestation was determined. The mean PPI found in the CT and MC cells ranged from 18% to 73%, values similar to those described for intensely proliferating tissues. The highest mean PPI value (73%) was observed in CT cells from placentae recovered at the 9th week of gestation, indicating a high specific proliferative activity of CT cells at this developmental stage.
Fine mapping of the long arm of human chromosome 11 by in situ hybridization using different translocations, including the t(11;22) of Ewing sarcoma
Authors: Bérubé D. , Passage E. , Mattei M.-G. , Mattei J.-F. , Gagné R.
Published: May 2008

The progesterone receptor gene (PGR), the gene coding for porphobilinogen deaminase (PBGD), the gene coding for a neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), the oncogene ETS1, and the anonymous genomic sequence D11S29 have been previously located on the long arm of chromosome 11. However, gene localizations obtained with different gene-mapping procedures have led to occasional discrepancies. To localize these genes more precisely, we hybridized five human DNA sequences with different chromosomal rearrangements, including four balanced and one unbalanced translocations. We show here that the order of these five sequences is cen PGR-PBGD-D1 lS29/NCAM/ETSl-tel.
Localization of human calcyphosine gene (CAPS) to the p13.3 region of chromosome 19 by in situ hybridization
Authors: Lefort A. , Passage E. , Libert F. , Szpirer J. , Vassart G. , Mattei M.-G.
Published: May 2008

The gene for human calcyphosine (CAPS) was assigned to the pl3.3 region of chromosome 19 by in situ hybridization.
Aneuploidy induction in mice: construction and use of a tester stock with 100% nondisjunction
Authors: Beechey C.V. , Searle A.G.
Published: May 2008

A new murine tester stock for primary nondisjunction incorporates three genetically marked Robertsonian translocations with tribrachial homology (TBH): Rb(6.15)1Aid, Rb(4.6)2Bnr, and Rb(4.15)4Rma. The resultant tricentromeric meiotic configuration leads to 100% aneuploid gametes, but the TBH stock can be maintained by intercrossing, through the complementation of nullisomic and disomic gametes. The only neonatal survivors from testcrosses to wild type come from complementation of aneuploid gametes and genetic tests allow wild type gains or losses of Chromosomes 4, 6, and 15 to be distinguished. Alternatively, cytogenetic examination allows products of wild type chromosome gain, with one metacentric, to be separated from chromosome loss with two metacentrics. A pilot study, with 0–2 Gy X-irradiation of oocytes at diakinesis, revealed twelve examples of chromosome loss in wild type gametes but none of chromosome gain and thus provided no evidence for the induction of nondisjunction.
Chromosomal localization of the gene for AA-type platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFRA) in humans and mice
Authors: Hsieh C.-L. , Navankasattusas S. , Escobedo J.A. , Williams L.T. , Francke U.
Published: May 2008

The full-length cDNA of the receptor for human AA-type platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) was used to assign the PDGFRA gene to region q11→q21 of human chromosome 4 and to mouse Chromosome 5 by somatic cell hybrid analysis. Since the same region also contains the c-kit oncogene homolog KIT, we carried out pulsed-field gel electrophoresis to determine the physical distance between the two genes in human DNA. The two probes, when successively applied to the same filters, hybridized to a 450-kb EagI-fragment but not to other common restriction fragments. The genes are separated by at least one Notl, one Xhol, and one Sail site.
Assignment of β-hexosaminidase A α-subunit to human chromosomal region 15q23→q24
Authors: Nakai H. , Byers M.G. , Nowak N.J. , Shows T.B.
Published: May 2008

Tay-Sachs disease results from a mutation in the α subunit of β-hexosaminidase. Using a cDNA clone, we have mapped the gene to 15q23→q24 by in situ hybridization.
Regional assignment of the human gene coding for a multifunctional polypeptide (P4HB) acting as the β-subunit of prolyl 4-hydroxylase and the enzyme protein disulfide isomerase to 17q25
Authors: Pajunen L. , Jones T.A. , Goddard A. , Sheer D. , Solomon E. , Pihlajaniemi T. , Kivirikko K.I.
Published: May 2008

Prolyl 4-hydroxylase, an α2β2 tetramer, catalyzes the formation of 4-hydroxyproline in collagens and related proteins by hydroxylating proline residues in peptide linkages. The β-subunit of prolyl 4-hydroxylase (P4HB) is a highly unusual multifunctional polypeptide that is identical to the enzyme protein disulfide isomerase and a major cellular thyroid hormone-binding protein and is highly similar to a glycosylation site-binding polypeptide of oligosaccharyl transferase. We report here the regional assignment of the gene for this multifunctional polypeptide. In situ hybridization mapped the gene to 17q25. Southern blot analyses of restricted DNA from a chromosome-mediated gene transfer transfectant panel suggested that the P4HB gene is located distal to the gene for thymidine kinase, either between the genes for thymidine kinase and galactokinase or on the telomeric side of both these genes.
Assignment of the rat parathyroid hormone-like peptide gene (PTHLH) to chromosome 4: evidence for conserved synteny between human chromosome 12, mouse chromosome 6, and rat chromosome 4
Authors: Szpirer C. , Rivière M. , Szpirer J. , Hanson C. , Levan G. , Hendy G.N.
Published: May 2008

The gene coding for rat parathyroid hormone-like peptide (PTHLH) was previously assigned to rat chromosome 2 (Hendy et al., 1988). We reexamined this assignment. According to our results, the gene is on rat chromosome 4. Taking into account the known localizations of the KRAS2 (Kras-2) oncogene and the PTHLH gene, this assignment strongly suggests that a synteny group is conserved on rat chromosome 4, mouse chromosome 6, and human chromosome 12.
The gene for retinal rod 33-kDa protein is on mouse chromosome 1, near Lamb2
Authors: Danciger M. , Kozak C.A. , Abe T. , Shinohara T. , Farber D.B.
Published: May 2008

A water-soluble protein (called “33-kDa protein”) that exhibits light-dependent phosphorylation has been shown to be a major protein of mammalian rod photoreceptors. Although the function of this protein is unknown, it has been implicated in the biochemical cascade mediating the rod visual response. Using a retinal cDNA from the rat and somatic cell hybrids, we have mapped the gene corresponding to this protein to mouse Chromosome 1 and, by analyzing the progeny of an intersubspecific backcross, have positioned it near Lamb2 (the β2 chain of laminin). We have designated the gene Rpr-1 (rod photoreceptor protein-1).
High-resolution banding in chromosomes of B lymphoblastoid cells and cultured skin fibroblasts
Authors: Kuwano A. , Kajii T.
Published: May 2008

High-resolution banded chromosomes were obtained in Epstein-Barr virus-transformed lymphoblastoid cells and cultured skin fibroblasts by aphidicolin synchronization, followed by inhibition of chromosome condensation by ethidium bromide. With this method, the chromosomes of 33.3 % of lymphoblastoid cells and 48.7% of skin fibroblasts were high-resolution banded, and their mitotic indices were 1.5 and 2.7 times higher than those of control cultures.
Hypercoagulability in patients with haematological neoplasia: No apparent initiation by tissue factor
Authors: Iversen Per , Østenstad Bjørn , Iversen Nina , Holme Pål , Sandset Per , Negaard Helene
Published: May 2008

Patients with haematological malignancies carry increased risk of venous thrombosis (VT). However, the mechanisms that link these malignancies to activated coagulation have not been fully identified. Since anti-haemostatic agents are studied in clinical trials for their potential to prolong survival in cancer patients, a detailed characterisation of haemostatic markers in cancer subtypes is needed. Hence, in this study, we measured the plasma concentrations and mRNA expression in blood mononuclear cells of haemostatic parameters in 93 patients with haematological neoplasias (acute myeloid leukaemia, chronic lymphatic leukaemia, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma) before start and after completion of cancer therapy. At diagnosis we found activation of coagulation and fibrinolysis, especially in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia. This hypercoagulation was not associated with increased levels of tissue factor (TF) or factor VII (fVII) antigen or mRNA, or levels of activated fVII. In conclusion we found a hypercoagulable state in patients with haematological malignancy that did not seem to be initiated by TF.
Factor XIII Val34Leu polymorphism and the risk of myocardial infarction under the age of 36 years
Authors: Politou Marianna , Komporozos Christoforos , Panagiotakos Demosthenes , Belessi Chrisoula , Travlou Anthi , Lekakis John , Kremastinos Dimitrios , Rallidis Loukianos
Published: May 2008

There are limited and controversial data regarding the impact of factor XIII (FXIII) Val34Leu polymorphism in the pathogenesis of premature myocardial infarction (MI). We examined whether FXIII Val34Leu polymorphism is associated with the development of early MI.We recruited 159 consecutive patients who had survived their first acute MI under the age of 36 years (mean age=32.1 ± 3.6 years, 138 were men). The control group consisted of 121 healthy individuals matched with cases for age and sex, without a family history of premature coronary heart disease (CHD). FXIII Val34Leu polymorphism was tested with polymerase chain reaction and reverse hybridization. There was a lower prevalence of carriers of the Leu34 allele in patients than in controls (30.2 vs. 47.1%, p=0.006). FXIII Val34Leu polymorphism was associated with lower risk for acute MI after adjusting for major cardiovascular risk factors (odds ratio [OR] = 0.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.27–0.95, p=0.03). Subgroup analysis according to angiographic findings (“normal” coronary arteries [n=29] or significant CHD [n=130]) showed that only patients with MI and significant CHD had lower prevalence of carriers of the Leu34 allele compared to controls after adjusting for major cardiovascular risk factors (OR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.22–0.83, p=0.01). Our data indicate that FXIII Val34Leu polymorphism has a protective effect against the development of MI under the age of 36 years, particularly in the setting of significant CHD.
Anakinra, a Recombinant Human Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist, Inhibits Apoptosis in Experimental Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Abbate Antonio , Salloum Fadi N. , Vecile Elena , Das Anindita , Hoke Nicholas N. , Straino Stefania , Biondi-Zoccai Giuseppe G.L. , Houser Jon-Erik , Qureshi Ian Z. , Ownby Evan D. , Gustini Edoardo , Biasucci Luigi M. , Severino Anna , Capogrossi Maurizio C. , Vetrovec George W. , Crea Filippo , Baldi Alfonso , Kukreja Rakesh C. , Dobrina Aldo
Published: May 2008

Background—

Experimental interleukin-1 receptor antagonist gene overexpression has shown that interleukin-1 receptor antagonist is cardioprotective during global cardiac ischemia. The aim of the present study was to test the impact of an exogenous recombinant human interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (anakinra) in experimental acute myocardial infarction.

Methods and Results—

Two animal studies were conducted: one of immediate anakinra administration during ischemia in the mouse and one of delayed anakinra administration 24 hours after ischemia in the rat. Seventy-eight Institute of Cancer Research mice and 20 Wistar rats underwent surgical coronary artery ligation (or sham operation) and were treated with either anakinra 1 mg/kg or NaCl 0.9% (saline). Treatment was administered during surgery and then daily for 6 doses in the mice and starting on day 2 daily for 5 doses in the rats. Twenty-eight mice underwent infarct size assessment 24 hours after surgery, 6 saline-treated mice and 22 mice treated with increasing doses of anakinra (1 mg/kg [n=6], 10 mg/kg [n=6], and 100 mg/kg [n=10]); 6 mice were euthanized at 7 days for protein expression analysis. The remaining animals underwent transthoracic echocardiography before surgery and 7 days later just before death. Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was measured in the peri-infarct regions. The antiapoptotic effect of anakinra was tested in a primary rat cardiomyocyte culture during simulated ischemia and in vitro on caspase-1 and -9 activities. At 7 days, 15 of the 16 mice (94%) treated with anakinra were alive versus 11 of the 20 mice (55%) treated with saline (
P
=0.013). No differences in infarct size at 24 hours compared with saline were observed with the 1- and 10-mg/kg doses, whereas a 13% reduction in infarct size was found with the 100-mg/kg dose (
P
=0.015). Treatment with anakinra was associated with a significant reduction in cardiomyocyte apoptosis in both the immediate and delayed treatment groups (3.1±0.2% versus 0.5±0.3% [
P
<0.001] and 4.2±0.4% versus 1.1±0.2% [
P
<0.001], respectively). Compared with saline-treated animals, anakinra-treated mice and rats showed signs of more favorable ventricular remodeling. In vitro, anakinra significantly prevented apoptosis induced by simulated ischemia and inhibited caspase-1 and -9 activities.

Conclusions—

Administration of anakinra within 24 hours of acute myocardial infarction significantly ameliorates the remodeling process by inhibiting cardiomyocyte apoptosis in 2 different experimental animal models of AMI. This may open the door for using anakinra to prevent postischemic cardiac remodeling and heart failure.
Meeting at La Sapienza: or, On the Cultivation of Onions
Authors: Biagini Mario
Published: May 2008

Revised and elaborated from responses to questions during the final two days of a seminar at the University of Rome La Sapienza, Biagini's talk traces the early stages of his 13 years of work alongside Grotowski and Thomas Richards, evoking both the importance of craft in the practice of Art as vehicle and its subtle interior processes, as well as the unique process of transmission from Grotowski to Richards. Biagini reflects on the application of Stanislavsky's method of physical actions, the construction of an actor's score, the central importance of traditional song in the Workcenter's ongoing practice, and on the work initiated in 1998 with four actresses from Singapore.
Reply to Stanislavsky
Authors: Grotowski Jerzy
Published: May 2008

While it has its origins in a talk given at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in February 1969, this key essay has never previously appeared in English. Publications in Italian, Polish, and Spanish, however, have ensured the circulation of this historically crucial text in European and South American theatre culture, resulting in a far more accurate historicization of Grotowski's work and its indebtedness to Stanislavsky.
On the Genesis of Apocalypsis
Authors: Grotowski Jerzy
Published: May 2008

Derived from a talk given following the opening of Grotowski's final theatrical performance in 1969, this text traces the artistic process that led Grotowski and his actors away from their initial point of departure, Juliusz Słowacki's Samuel Zborowski, and through their work on a staging of the Gospels, Ewangelie, before they finally discovered the creative seed that led them to devise Apocalypsis cum figuris.
Acta Gnosis
Authors: Attisani Antonio
Published: May 2008

In this selection from Un teatro apocrifo, Attisani goes beyond previous academic acknowledgments of Grotowski's interest in Gnostic texts, tracing the influence of key materials found in the Nag Hammadi and the significance of Gnostic belief as a secret subcurrent in the 20th-century theatrical avantgarde.
Cortical Activation Patterns during Long-term Memory Retrieval of Visually or Haptically Encoded Objects and Locations
Authors: Stock Oliver , Röder Brigitte , Burke Michael , Bien Siegfried , Rösler Frank
Published: May 2008

The present study used functional magnetic resonance imaging to delineate cortical networks that are activated when objects or spatial locations encoded either visually (visual encoding group, n = 10) or haptically (haptic encoding group, n = 10) had to be retrieved from long-term memory. Participants learned associations between auditorily presented words and either meaningless objects or locations in a 3-D space. During the retrieval phase one day later, participants had to decide whether two auditorily presented words shared an association with a common object or location. Thus, perceptual stimulation during retrieval was always equivalent, whereas either visually or haptically encoded object or location associations had to be reactivated. Moreover, the number of associations fanning out from each word varied systematically, enabling a parametric increase of the number of reactivated representations. Recall of visual objects predominantly activated the left superior frontal gyrus and the intraparietal cortex, whereas visually learned locations activated the superior parietal cortex of both hemispheres. Retrieval of haptically encoded material activated the left medial frontal gyrus and the intraparietal cortex in the object condition, and the bilateral superior parietal cortex in the location condition. A direct test for modality-specific effects showed that visually encoded material activated more vision-related areas (BA 18/19) and haptically encoded material more motor and somatosensory-related areas. A conjunction analysis identified supramodal and material-unspecific activations within the medial and superior frontal gyrus and the superior parietal lobe including the intraparietal sulcus. These activation patterns strongly support the idea that code-specific representations are consolidated and reactivated within anatomically distributed cell assemblies that comprise sensory and motor processing systems.
On-line Orthographic Influences on Spoken Language in a Semantic Task
Authors: Pattamadilok Chotiga , Perre Laetitia , Dufau Stéphane , Ziegler Johannes C.
Published: May 2008

Literacy changes the way the brain processes spoken language. Most psycholinguists believe that orthographic effects on spoken language are either strategic or restricted to meta-phonological tasks. We used event-related brain potentials (ERPs) to investigate the locus and the time course of orthographic effects on spoken word recognition in a semantic task. Participants were asked to decide whether a given word belonged to a semantic category (body parts). On no-go trials, words were presented that were either orthographically consistent or inconsistent. Orthographic inconsistency (i.e., multiple spellings of the same phonology) could occur either in the first or the second syllable. The ERP data showed a clear orthographic consistency effect that preceded lexical access and semantic effects. Moreover, the onset of the orthographic consistency effect was time-locked to the arrival of the inconsistency in a spoken word, which suggests that orthography influences spoken language in a time-dependent manner. The present data join recent evidence from brain imaging showing orthographic activation in spoken language tasks. Our results extend those findings by showing that orthographic activation occurs early and affects spoken word recognition in a semantic task that does not require the explicit processing of orthographic or phonological structure.
The Theology of Democracy
Authors: Hickman Jared
Published: May 2008

Recent events suggest that “democracy” not only functions as a “God-term” in global discourse but carries with it theological assumptions about God's relation to human freedom and history. This essay investigates the theological origins and implications of Anglo-American democratic theory, drawing attention to the instability of the U.S. Christian-republican synthesis.
Thinking Musically, Writing Expectantly: New Biographical Information About Emily Dickinson
Authors: Andrews Carol Damon
Published: May 2008

The papers of Ann Eliza Houghton Penniman, a music teacher active in the Connecticut Valley, reveal new biographical information about Emily Dickinson: specifically, the early training that helped her tune her musical sensibilities; and previously unknown facts about the first and forbidden lover on whom she practiced her wit.
Pediatric Resident Confidence in Resuscitation Skills Relates to Mock Code Experience
Authors: van Schaik Sandrijn M. , Von Kohorn Isabelle , O'Sullivan Patricia
Published: May 2008

To assess confidence in resuscitation skills among pediatric residents and its relationship to training and experience, all pediatric residents at one institution were surveyed regarding their confidence in technical and leadership resuscitation skills and their prior experience with real and mock codes. Respondents (61/82, 74%) reported participation in 4.9 ± 3.6 mock and 3.9 ± 5.0 real codes. Confidence score for all skills was 2.7 ± 0.6 (scale 1-5). Senior residents were more confident than interns (2.8 ± 0.5 vs 2.3 ± 0.5). Residents were more confident in basic (3.9 ± 0.6) than in advanced (2.6 ± 0.6) or expert resuscitation skills (1.6 ± 0.7). Confidence correlated with mock codes ( r = 0.52) and to a lesser degree with real codes attended ( r = 0.36). Performance of active roles and debriefing occurred more commonly with mock than with real codes. The data indicate that pediatric residents have limited confidence in resuscitation skills and that mock code training with active participation and debriefing may be an effective educational tool.
The Nation's Monstrous Women: Wives, Widows and Witches in Salman Rushdie's Midnight's Children
Authors: Weickgenannt Nicole
Published: May 2008

This article explores the function of misogyny in Salman Rushdie's Midnight's Children (1981), an aspect of the novel which is often too easily interpreted as a shortcoming on Rushdie's part rather than as a conscious and multi-layered strategy. It focuses on the question of woman and her national role, and the striking traits of monstrosity displayed by the female characters. In order to explore the crucial link between their apparent monstrosity and their significance for the nation in the novel, the portrayal of the novel's monstrous wives, widows and witches is analysed in relation to the representation of Indian womanhood in Indian historiographical and political discourses. The article identifies two main trajectories of the theme of female monstrosity, one aimed at criticizing the nation's unwillingness to grant women an equal status and the other designed to demonize Indira Gandhi.
An Analysis of the Learning Characteristics of Students Taking Alternate Assessments Based on Alternate Achievement Standards
Authors: Towles-Reeves Elizabeth , Kearns Jacqueline , Kleinert Harold , Kleinert Jane
Published: May 2008

This study examined the learner characteristics of students in alternate assessments based on alternate achievement standards in three geographically and demographically different states. On the basis of the results, it can be argued that students in alternate assessments fall into at least two distinct subgroups. The first set of learners have either symbolic or emerging symbolic levels of communication, evidence social engagement, and possess at least some level of functional reading and math skills. The second set of students have not yet acquired formal, symbolic communication systems; may not initiate, maintain, or respond to social interactions consistently; and have no awareness of print, Braille, or numbers. The authors provide implications and considerations of the findings of the Learner Characteristics Inventory for states and practitioners in developing alternate assessments based on alternate achievement standards.
Gendering Secularization Theory
Authors: Woodhead Linda
Published: May 2008

The author argues that our understanding of secularization can be greatly enhanced by taking gender differences seriously. Whilst existing theories of secularization do a good job of explaining why men disaffiliated from Christianity after the onset of industrialization, they ignore the experience of women-whose experience of modernization was significantly different. Whilst men have been responsible for paid work outside the home, women have been engaged in unpaid care work within the home. Their entrance into the paid labour force since the 1960s has not relieved them of traditional duties of care. It is suggested that we can best understand contemporary women's patterns of religious affiliation and disaffiliation in relation to their working lives, whether embracing domestic employment, or seeking a balance between both forms of labour.
Cardiac Valvular Pathology: Comparative Pathology and Animal Models of Acquired Cardiac Valvular Diseases
Authors: Donnelly Kevin B.
Published: May 2008

Recent voluntary withdrawal of the ergoline-derivative Alzheimers’ drug Pergolide (Permax) resulting from demonstrated risk of cardiac valve injury illustrates the increased importance of valve injury in pharmaceutical toxicology. Following the 2001 landmark discovery of cardiac valve injury associated with the widely prescribed anti-obesity drug combination fenfluramine-phentermine, and subsequent withdrawal, the need to understand and assess cardiac valve biology and pathology both preclinically and clinically has been accentuated. Unique aspects of the developmental biology, anatomy, and physiology of cardiac valves compared to main cardiac tissue have been discovered, and key elements of the pathophysiology of various valvular injury mechanisms have been described. Although general clinical cardiac valvular disease in humans has been well characterized, animal modeling of valvular injury has proved to be difficult and undersubscribed. Additionally, both the preclinical, pharmaceutical, toxicologic assessment of valvular injury and the understanding of species-comparative valvular pathology have been limited. As discoveries and awareness grows, the purpose of this paper is to review the structure and function of cardiac valves, mechanisms, and outcomes of the common acquired human cardiac valve diseases, including those that are drug-related; to summarize comparative laboratory animal valvular pathology; and to review the literature of contemporary animal models of valvular injury.
Interfirm Cooperation among Small Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Hanna Victoria , Walsh Kathryn
Published: May 2008

This article evaluates interfirm cooperation among small manufacturing firms. Networks of small firms work together on numerous activities such as marketing, procurement or manufacturing; however, are certain `enablers' necessary for successful cooperation? To answer this question networking activities among small manufacturers were investigated. Over the course of 12 months 23 in-depth interviews were conducted: 7 with network brokers (network brokers identify opportunities, bring small firms together and facilitate cooperation), 2 with small firm business associations with an acknowledged stance on the benefits of small firm cooperation and 14 with small firms engaged in interfirm cooperation. These semi-structured discussions explored the key characteristics of successful networks, the motives for initiating a cooperative relationship, how firms managed appropriation concerns and how they coordinated tasks.The findings indicate a clear demarcation between networking activities that are led by brokers and those that are created of the participating firms' own volition.
Prolactin and dopamine: What is the connection? A Review Article
Authors: Fitzgerald Peter , Dinan Timothy G
Published: May 2008

Dopamine (DA) holds a predominant role in the regulation of prolactin (PRL) secretion. Through a direct effect on anterior pituitary lactotrophs, DA inhibits the basally high-secretory tone of the cell. It accomplishes this by binding to D2 receptors expressed on the cell membrane of the lactotroph, activation of which results in a reduction of PRL exocytosis and gene expression by a variety of intracellular signalling mechanisms. The hypothalamic dopaminergic neurons, which provide DA to the anterior pituitary gland, are themselves regulated by feedback from PRL through a short-loop feedback mechanism . A variety of other modulators of prolactin secretion act at the hypothalamic level by either disinhibition of the dopaminergic tone (e.g. serotonin, GABA, oestrogens and opioids) or by reinforcing it (e.g. substance P). All typical antipsychotic medications are associated with sustained hyperprolactinaemia due to their high affinity for the D2 receptor and their slow dissociation from the receptor once bound, but atypicals differ quite dramatically in their propensity to cause prolonged high prolactin levels. Of those atypicals that are associated with prolactin elevation, the main causative factor appears to be a higher peripheral-to-central dopamine receptor potency of either the parent drug or its active metabolite (e.g. risperidone, 9-hydroxy-risperidone and amisulpride). Antipsychotics that easily cross the blood—brain barrier and exhibit fast dissociation from the dopamine receptor once bound do not result in sustained hyperprolactinaemia.
Evaluation of a psycho-educational group programme for family caregivers in home-based palliative care
Authors: Hudson P , Quinn K , Kristjanson L , Thomas T , Braithwaite M , Fisher J , Cockayne M
Published: May 2008

Background: Family caregivers are often responsible for providing significant support to relatives who require palliative care at home. However, evidence suggests that family caregivers have limited information, resources or support to prepare them for such a role. Furthermore, family caregiving can be associated with negative physical, financial and psychosocial outcomes. Purpose: This project sought to examine the utility of a group family caregiver psycho-educational programme focused on preparing primary family caregivers for the role of supporting a relative with advanced cancer at home. Method: The education programme consisted of three consecutive weekly sessions presented in a group format, conducted at six home-based palliative care services across metropolitan and regional Victoria (Australia). Participating caregivers were required to complete a set of self-report questionnaires measuring caregiver competence, preparedness, optimism, rewards, social support, burden and information needs, at three time points: commencement of the programme (T1), upon completion (T2) and 2 weeks later (T3). Caregivers were also asked to report on the relevance, acceptability and content of the programme, as well as any barriers to access. Results: Sixteen education programmes were conducted, with 74 caregivers attending the first session. Forty-four caregivers completed all three data collection sets. Following the intervention, a significant positive effect was found for the following outcomes: preparedness for the caring role, caregiving competence, caregiving rewards and having information needs met from T1 to T2. These improvements were maintained at follow-up (T3). Feedback on the individual sessions and entire programme was favourable and the overwhelming majority of participants reported that the programme had a positive impact on their lives. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that a group education programme to prepare family caregivers for the role of supporting a dying relative at home was accessible, applicable and effective.