bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SYMBOLIC FACTORIAL DISCRIMINANT ANALYSIS FOR ILLUMINATION INVARIANT FACE RECOGNITION
Authors: HIREMATH P. S. , PRABHAKAR C. J.
Published: May 2008

In this paper, a new appearance-based technique called symbolic factorial discriminant analysis (symbolic FDA) is explored for face representation and recognition under varying illumination conditions. In the past few years, many appearance-based methods have been proposed to model image variations of human faces under different lighting conditions using single valued variables to represent the facial features. In the proposed symbolic factorial discriminant analysis method, we extract interval type discriminating features, which are robust to illumination changes. The minimum distance classifier with symbolic dissimilarity measure is used for classification. The proposed method has been successfully tested for face recognition using three databases, namely, Yale Face database B, CMU PIE database and Harvard database. The experimental results have demonstrated the effective performance of this method.
GENETIC ALGORITHM BASED FEATURE SELECTION LEVEL FUSION USING FINGERPRINT AND IRIS BIOMETRICS
Authors: ALTUN A. ALPASLAN , KOCER H. ERDINC , ALLAHVERDI NOVRUZ
Published: May 2008

An accuracy level of unimodal biometric recognition system is not very high because of noisy data, limited degrees of freedom, spoof attacks etc. problems. A multimodal biometric system which uses two or more biometric traits of an individual can overcome such problems. We propose a multimodal biometric recognition system that fuses the fingerprint and iris features at the feature extraction level. A feed-forward artificial neural networks (ANNs) model is used for recognition of a person. There is a need to make the training time shorter, so the feature selection level should be performed. A genetic algorithms (GAs) approach is used for feature selection of a combined data. As an experiment, the database of 60 users, 10 fingerprint images and 10 iris images taken from each person, is used. The test results are presented in the last stage of this research.
DETERMINING THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN DERMATOGLYPHICS AND SCHIZOPHRENIA BY USING FINGERPRINT ASYMMETRY MEASURES
Authors: WANG JEN-FENG , LIN CHEN-LIANG , YEN CHEN-WEN , CHANG YUNG-HSIEN , CHEN TENG-YI , SU KUAN-PIN , NAGURKA MARK L.
Published: May 2008

Early detection and intervention strategies for schizophrenia are receiving increasingly more attention. Dermatoglyphic patterns, such as the degree of asymmetry of the fingerprints, have been hypothesized to be indirect measures for early abnormal developmental processes that can lead to later psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia. However, previous results have been inconsistent in trying to establish the association between dermatoglyphics and schizophrenia. The goal of this work is to try to resolve this problem by borrowing well-developed techniques from the field of fingerprint matching. Two dermatoglyphic asymmetry measures are proposed that draw on the orientation field of homologous fingers. To test the capability of these measures, fingerprint images were acquired digitally from 40 schizophrenic patients and 51 normal individuals. Based on these images, no statistically significant association between conventional dermatoglyphic asymmetry measures and schizophrenia was found. In contrast, the sample means of the proposed measures consistently identified the patient group as having a higher degree of asymmetry than the control group. These results suggest that the proposed measures are promising for detecting the dermatoglyphic patterns that can differentiate the patient and control groups.
STUDY OF ALPHA DECAY OF SUPER HEAVY ELEMENTS USING S-MATRIX AND WKB METHODS
Authors: PREMA P. , MAHADEVAN S. , SHASTRY C. S. , BHAGWAT A. , GAMBHIR Y. K.
Published: May 2008

A comparative study of the S-matrix and the WKB methods for the calculation of the half widths of alpha decay of super heavy elements is presented. The extent of the reliability of the WKB methods is demonstrated through simple illustrative examples. Detailed calculations have been carried out using the microscopic alpha-daughter potentials generated in the framework of the double-folding model using densities obtained in the relativistic mean field theories. We consider alpha-nucleus systems appearing in the decay chains of super heavy parent elements having A = 277, Z = 112 and A = 269, Z = 110. For negative and small positive log τ1/2 values the results from both methods are similar even though the S-matrix results should be considered to be more accurate. However, when log τ1/2 values are large and positive, the width associated with such state is infinitesimally small and hence calculation of such width by the S-matrix pole search method becomes a numerically difficult problem. We find that overall, the WKB method is reliable for the calculation of half lives of alpha decay from heavy nuclei.
THE COLLISIONAL AND RADIATIVE ENERGY LOSS CONTRIBUTIONS FOR THE QUENCHING FACTOR
Authors: GAY DUCATI M. B. , GONÇALVES V. P. , MACKEDANZ L. F.
Published: May 2008

The contributions of radiative and collisional mechanisms for parton energy loss when it propagates inside a dense medium are calculated. The critical energy Ec, which characterizes the energy where both mechanisms contribute equally is estimated, and the quenching factor is calculated including collisional and radiative energy loss. Our results demonstrate the importance of collisional energy loss mechanism and suggest that it cannot be disregarded in the RHIC data analysis. However, the magnitude of the quenching factor is reduced by a factor smaller than two when the collisional energy loss contribution is included.
WHAT APPEARS TO MAKE SEA EFFECTIVE IN DIFFERENT PLANNING SYSTEMS
Authors: GAZZOLA PAOLA
Published: May 2008

If Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is to develop into an effective decision support instrument globally, then it should not just rely only on the input provided by a selected group of countries. In this context, the understanding of how to apply SEA effectively in different planning systems is unlikely to improve if the knowledge about those systems is limited. This paper establishes what appears to make SEA effective in two countries with different planning systems: Italy and the UK. Italy is chosen as an example, representing a specific Southern-European planning culture, which to date has not contributed to the SEA literature to any great extent. Based on empirical observations, it is suggested that the SEA effectiveness elements portrayed in the international literature are not fully valid. The UK is chosen as an example, which represents a specific Northern-European planning culture. Countries representing this planning culture have contributed heavily to the international SEA literature and have influenced the development of SEA theory strongly. In this context, the SEA effectiveness elements and benefits portrayed in the international literature appear to be valid.

As part of a PhD research project, this paper builds on the findings of a content analysis of the international SEA literature (Fischer and Gazzola, 2006).
Pleural Involvement in Systemic Autoimmune Disorders
Authors: Bouros Demosthenes , Pneumatikos Ioannis , Tzouvelekis Argyris
Published: May 2008

Systemic autoimmune diseases, a heterogeneous group of immunologically mediated inflammatory disorders including multiorgan involvement, can affect the pleura with various frequencies, either as a single presenting feature or as part of multisystem involvement. Rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus represent the most common immunological diseases that affect the pleural cavity; however, there is considerable variation regarding the reported prevalence, natural history and prognosis of pleural involvement in both conditions. The definition of pleural disease in the remaining systemic autoimmune disorders is unquestionably imprecise and assumptive, since it is risky to support premises based on single case reports or retrospective data from very small series. In this article, we will review the manifestations of pleural disease caused by rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, polymyositis/dermatomyositis, mixed connective tissue disease, ankylosing spondylitis, Sjögren’s syndrome and Wegener’s granulomatosis.
Fundus Autofluorescence, Optical Coherence Tomography and Visual Acuity in Adult-Onset Foveomacular Dystrophy
Authors: Furino Claudio , Boscia Francesco , Cardascia Nicola , Sborgia Luigi , Sborgia Carlo
Published: May 2008

Aim: We investigated fundus autofluorescence (FA) patterns and tomographic retinal changes by means of optical coherence tomography (OCT 3) in adult-onset foveomacular vitelliform dystrophy (AOFVD) and their possible correlation with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Methods: Eighteen eyes of 15 consecutive patients (mean age: 73.73 ± 9.5 years) presented to our observation with a diagnosis of AOFVD underwent BCVA measurement, evaluation of FA distribution by means of a confocal laser scanning ophthalmoscope and OCT 3 tomography. Results: The mean BCVA was 20/40 (range: 20/20–20/100). The FA pattern was patchy in 9 eyes (50%), ring-like in 5 (27.7%), focal in 3 (16.6%) and linear in 1 (5.5%). No correlation between FA patterns and BCVA was found. OCT 3 showed accumulation of highly reflective material between the neurosensory retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in 12 eyes (66.6%) with an evident overlying photoreceptor layer (PRL). In 5 eyes the highly reflective material was built up between the neurosensory retina and RPE without evidence of PRL (27.7%). Only in 1 eye was the subretinal accumulation site not well defined (5.5%). The mean thickness of the deposit was 135.52 ± 47.53 µm, while the residual neurosensory retina thickness was 103.94 ± 24.21 µm. The relationship between BCVA and the thickness of the neurosensory retina over the lesion was not significant (p = 0.016, r = 0.33), while the correlation between BCVA and the material deposit thickness (p = 0.017, r = 0.12) was significant. Conclusions: In AOFVD, FA presented different patterns, while OCT usually shows a well-defined material accumulation with a generally reduced neurosensory thickness between PRL and RPE. FA imaging and OCT are useful and safe for the diagnosis and follow-up of AOFVD.
Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome and Acquired C1 Inhibitor Deficiency
Authors: Masson F. , Barete S. , Frémeaux-Bacchi V. , Szpirglas H. , Agbo-Godeau S. , Chosidow O. , Piette J.C. , Francès C.
Published: May 2008

Background: Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) is a rare disease whose full-blown form is characterized by orofacial swelling, facial palsy and lingua plicata. Objective: To investigate the complement system as well as its role in patients with MRS. Methods: Seven patients presenting at this hospital between November 2002 and May 2003 and meeting the diagnostic criteria according to Hornstein were evaluated retrospectively. The investigations included clinical signs, an analysis of the complement system including levels of CH50, C3, C4, C1 inhibitor (INH) functions and C1-INH antigen detection. Results: Two female patients showed isolated low levels of functional C1-INH as determined by duplicate tests. Both patients took estrogen-progestin contraceptives. Conclusion: Since deficiency in plasma protease C1-INH is known to lead to recurrent angioedema, we hypothesize that low levels of functional C1-INH may have contributed to the orofacial swelling in the 2 patients.
Change of Extracellular Glutamate and Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid in Substantia Nigra and Globus Pallidus during Electrical Stimulation of Subthalamic Nucleus in Epileptic Rats
Authors: Zhang Bin , Chu Junsheng , Zhang Jianguo , Ma Yu
Published: May 2008

Objective: To study the neurochemical change during high-frequency stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus in epileptic rats. Methods: Two animal groups – 12 rats with epilepsy induced by the systemic administration of kainic acid and 12 normal rats – were used. Concentric bipolar electrodes were stereotaxically implanted in the unilateral subthalamic nucleus (STN), stimulated by high frequencies of 130 and 260 Hz in each group. The microdialysis probes were unilaterally lowered into the globus pallidus (GP) and the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr). The concentrations of glutamate (Glu) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in dialysate samples were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: Electrical stimulation of the STN induced increases in GABA content in the SNr of each group, while GABA remained stable in the GP. The extracellular GABA level in the epileptic group was significantly higher than that of the normal group. In addition, the frequency of 130 Hz provoked the maximum increase in Glu contents both in the GP and SNr, whereas 260 Hz had less effect. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the neurochemical modifications in STN targets during electrical STN stimulation and shows that different frequencies of high-frequency stimulation have different effects on the neurotransmitters.
Cyst Formation after Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Intracranial Meningioma
Authors: Igaki Hiroshi , Maruyama Keisuke , Tago Masao , Shin Masahiro , Murakami Naoya , Koga Tomoyuki , Nakagawa Keiichi , Kawahara Nobutaka , Ohtomo Kuni
Published: May 2008

The authors report 2 cases of delayed cyst formation after gamma knife radiosurgery for 3 meningioma lesions. All 3 lesions reported here had a distinctive feature before gamma knife treatment of small and spotty intratumoral cysts. One patient experienced an intriguing clinical course of spontaneous regression of the enlarged cyst, and 2 of the 3 lesions became symptomatic requiring surgical interventions. Cyst formation as a postradiosurgical complication is relatively rare in meningioma patients in the literature, and its pathogenesis is unclear. We describe herein the clinical courses of these 2 patients and review the relevant literature in this report. From our experience of these 2 cases, we suggest that we should be aware of the possible development of spotty intratumoral cysts into larger cysts after stereotactic radiosurgery and that we should carefully observe such patients after the treatment.
Stereotactic MRI in Dyt1 Dystonia: Focal Signal Abnormalities in the Basal Ganglia Do Not Contraindicate Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Gavarini S. , Vayssière N. , Delort P. , Cif L. , Biolsi B. , Tancu C. , Vasques X. , Plagnol S. , Bonafe A. , Coubes P.
Published: May 2008

Aims: To study stereotactic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of the basal ganglia in DYT1 primary dystonia. Methods: Twenty-five genetically confirmed DYT1 dystonia patients (age range, 8–66 years; mean age, 22 years) underwent brain MRI under general anesthesia at the time of globus pallidus internus (GPi) deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery. MR images were retrospectively reviewed for signal intensity alterations. Clinical improvement of patients was assessed by comparing pre- and postoperative Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale scores. Results: Seventeen patients out of 25 (68%) exhibited T1-weighted hypointense/T2-weighted hyperintense signal abnormalities in the putamen and globus pallidus on MR images. Signals were isointense with cerebrospinal fluid in all sequences. The mean volume of focal signal abnormalities was 15 mm3 (maximum, 154.5 mm3). The total volume of focal signal abnormalities in the basal ganglia was correlated with the duration of the disease (p = 0.01). Although clinical outcome did not differ as a function of the presence of focal signal abnormalities overall, patients with signals within the GPi tended to show lesser improvement (p = 0.04). Conclusions: T1-hypointense/T2-hyperintense signal abnormalities are common findings in the putamen and globus pallidus of DYT1 patients but do not contraindicate DBS. However, their presence within the GPi may reduce the efficacy of DBS treatment.
Longitudinal Determination of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen-Specific B Lymphocyte Frequency in Healthy High Responder Adults after Booster Vaccination
Authors: Sam Mohammad Reza , Shokrgozar Mohammad Ali , Shokri Fazel
Published: May 2008

Objectives: The influence of booster vaccination on hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-specific B lymphocytes in humans has not been well characterized. Considering the low frequency of circulating B cells specific for HBsAg in vaccine high responder subjects, determination of this frequency at different time intervals after booster dose injection may provide invaluable information for evaluation of immune response to rHBsAg and identification of the most appropriate timing for isolation of specific B cells and generation of human monoclonal antibodies. Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from 7 healthy high responder adults at 1, 2, 4, 8 and 16 weeks following administration of booster vaccination with an rHBsAg. The cells were transformed with Epstein-Barr virus and cultured at different cell densities over a feeder of human fetal foreskin fibroblasts. Following transformation, total hIg and HBsAg-specific antibody were screened in culture supernatant using ELISA, and primary frequency of specific B cells was calculated by limiting dilution assay based on Poisson analysis. Actual frequency was determined taking into consideration the percent of B cells in each PBMC population and efficiency of EBV transformation. Results: The mean frequencies of specific B cells after booster vaccination were found to be 1/13,462, 1/3,318, 1/5,224, 1/8,861 and 1/10,714 for the specified time intervals, respectively. Significant differences were observed between the frequencies of samples collected at all time intervals with the exception of week 1 versus weeks 8 and 16, week 2 versus week 4, and week 8 versus week 16. Conclusions: Our results may provide an indirect measure for immunological memory and may help optimize immunization strategies for novel vaccines and generate human monoclonal antibodies.
Dengue in Travellers Is Still Underestimated
Authors: Allwinn Regina , Hofknecht Nina , Doerr Hans Wilhelm
Published: May 2008

Background: Dengue fever (DF), one of the main emerging virus diseases, also increases in German travellers, due to the increasing number of travellers to tropical regions. Methods: We determined antibodies against DF virus in a group (n = 149) of long-distance travellers in order to evaluate the risk of acquiring DF. Serum samples were collected at the travel vaccination centre in Frankfurt/Main and DF seroprevalence in serum samples was determined using different antibody assays with particular attention to flavivirus cross-reactivity. So, antibodies against tick-borne encephalitis and previous flavivirus vaccination of the travellers were checked. Results: Depending on the test system, 8.7–19.5% of the screened travellers were found to be DF virus IgG antibody positive, significantly more than in previous investigations. Remarkably, younger adults and women are more often affected. Conclusions: These data imply that the risk for travellers to acquire DF has been underestimated. Nevertheless, dengue haemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome are still rare in travellers, but those with a history of dengue should be advised to protect themselves well from mosquitoes when travelling to endemic areas.
Mapping of the bcl-2oncogene on mouse chromosome 1
Authors: Mock B.A. , Givol D. , Dhoostelaere L.A. , Huppi K. , Seldin M.F. , Gurfinkel N. , Unger T. , Potter M. , Mushinski J.F.
Published: May 2008

Two bcl-2 alleles have been identified in inbred strains of mice by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Analysis of a bcl-2 RFLP in a series of bilineal congenic strains (C.D2), developed as a tool for chromosomal mapping studies, revealed linkage of bcl-2 to the Idh-1/Pep-3 region of murine chromosome 1. The co-segregation of bcl-2 alleles with allelic forms of two other chromosome 1 loci, Ren-1,2 and Spna-1 in a set of back-cross progeny, positions bcl-2 7.8 cM centromeric from Ren-1,2.
Assignment of three rat genes coding for plasma proteins, transferrin, third component of complement, and beta-fibrinogen to rat chromosomes 8, 9, and 2
Authors: Szpirer J. , Islam M.Q. , Cooke N.E. , Szpirer C. , Levan G.
Published: May 2008

The assignment of three rat genes coding for plasma proteins has been deduced from the analysis of rat × mouse cell hybrids. The transferrin and the third component of complement genes were localized on rat chromosomes 8 and 9 respectively, and the beta-fibrinogen gene on chromosome 2.
Heterogeneous heterochromatin and size variation in the sex chromosomes of Micvotus cabrerae
Authors: Burgos M. , Jiménez R. , Olmos D.M. , de la Guardia Diaz
Published: May 2008

The sex chromosomes of Microtus cabrerae are characterized by large segments of constitutive heterochromatin in both the X and Y. Alkali treatment, enzymatic digestion (trypsin), and fluorochrome staining reveal considerable heterogeneity within these heterochromatic blocks and allow us to distinguish several regions. In addition, variation in the length of these segments is also present, probably as a result of deletions. A possible explanation for the origin of these heterochromatic blocks is discussed.
Human renin gene assigned to chromosome band 1q42 by in situ hybridization
Authors: Nakai H. , Inoue S. , Miyazaki H. , Murakami K. , Tada K.
Published: May 2008

A gene coding for renin was assigned to human chromosome region lq42 by in situ hybridization. Many genes in this region belong to multigene families whose members may be located on the same or different chromosomes. Genes located on the long arm of chromosome 1 appear to have been involved in several instances of gene duplication.
Is MYB amplified in acute myelogenous leukemia-derived cell lines?
Authors: Henderson A.S. , Wolman S.R.
Published: May 2008

Amplification of MYB DNA has been reported in two cell lines, ML-1 and ML-3, derived from a patient with acute myelogenous leukemia. A relationship between amplification and a terminal deletion on one of the homologs of chromosome 6 has been proposed. The present study shows that equivalent copy numbers for MYB DNA are present on each of the homologs of chromosome 6. Further, no evidence for gene amplification could be demonstrated in either cell line.
Regional mapping of the human placental alkaline phosphatase gene (ALPP) to 2q37 by in situ hybridization
Authors: Raimondi E. , Talarico D. , Moro L. , Rutter W.J. , Valle Delia , de Carli L.
Published: May 2008

In order to determine the subchromosomal location of the gene for human placental alkaline phosphatase (ALPP; EC 3.1.3.1.), a cDNA probe encompassing most of the ALPP translated sequences was hybridized in situ to metaphase chromosomes. Our results confirm previous assignment of the gene to chromosome 2 and allow its regional mapping to band q37.
A centromere-based linkage group on the long arm of human chromosome 17
Authors: Tsipouras P. , Schwartz R.C. , Phillips III J.A. , Willard H.F.
Published: May 2008

A genetic linkage group on the long arm of chromosome 17 is reported. A maximum likelihood of Θ = 0.20 between the centromere-based locus D17Z1 and COLlAl has been found, as well as a Θ = 0.10 between COLlAl and GHl. The most likely order of the three loci is D17Z1-COL1A1-GH1.
Does heterochromatin variation potentiate speciation?
Authors: Thelma B.K. , Juyal R.C. , Tewari R. , Rao S.R.V.
Published: May 2008

An increasing incidence of sex-chromosome variation in constitutive heterochromatin, including individuals with mosaic genotypes, has been observed in a single natural population of Nesokia indica, the Indian mole rat. Variations in the heterochromatic areas of the X chromosome are largely due to deletions at R-band-positive regions corresponding to folate-sensitive fragile sites. All individuals with either a pre- or post-zygotic loss or gain of sex-chromosome heterochromatin have so far proved to be infertile. Whether such F, sterility is due to abnormal gonadal development, gametic incompetence, or other factors is not clear. More important is the indication that the constitutive heterochromatin of this species may contain coding DNA sequences with putative regulatory functions.
The characterization of Muraena Helena L. mitotic chromosomes: karyotype, C-banding, nucleolar organizer regions, and in situ digestion with restriction endonucleases
Authors: Cau A. , Salvadori S. , Deiana A.M. , Bella J.L. , Mezzanotte R.
Published: May 2008

We investigated the chromosome complement of Muraena Helena L. using C-banding, nucleolar organizer region silver staining, and restriction endonuclease digestion. We found a diploid number identical to that previously found in other Muraenidae (2n = 42). C-banding revealed the presence of constitutive heterochromatin in the centromeres of all chromosomes as well as in most telomeres of acrocentric chromosomes. Nucleolar organizer regions were detected only on the short arm of chromosome 7. Digestion with either HaeIII, MboI, or DdeI restriction endonucleases produced a clearcut, specific banding pattern for each enzyme and indicated the existence of at least two different classes of highly repetitive DNAs. The short arm of chromosome 7 varied in size and staining characteristics.
Telomeric association: another characteristic of cancer chromosomes?
Authors: Pathak S. , Wang Z. , Dhaliwal M.K. , Sacks P.C.
Published: May 2008

Telomeric associations between single chromatids and double chromatids of nonhomologous normal human chromosomes and altered markers were observed in two morphologically distinct squamous-cell carcinoma lines derived from a surgical specimen. Chromosomes 2, 3, 5, and 16 were associated by their telomeric ends more frequently than other chromosomes.
The human amiloride-sensitive Na+/H+ antiporter: localization to chromosome 1 by in situ hybridization
Authors: Mattei M.G. , Sardet C. , Franchi A. , Pouysségur J.
Published: May 2008

The Na+/H+ antiporter is a ubiquitous membrane-bound enzyme involved in pH regulation of vertebrate cells. We cloned the human gene capable of complementing antiporter-deficient mouse fibroblasts and isolated an exon-containing genomic DNA fragment. Using this genomic probe, we mapped the putative structural gene of the amiloride-sensitive Na+/H+ antiporter to the human chromosome region 1p35→p36.1 by in situ hybridization.
Localization of the coagulation factor XIII A subunit gene (F13A) to chromosome bands 6p24→p25
Authors: Board P.G. , Webb G.C. , McKee J. , Ichinose A.
Published: May 2008

Electrophoretic studies of the genetic variation of the A subunit of coagulation factor XIII (F13A) have shown that the A subunits expressed in placenta and in the circulation are the products of the same gene locus. In situ hybridization studies with a cDNA fragment encoding the amino terminal region of the A subunit have localized the gene to bands p24→p25 on chromosome 6. This confirms previous studies that showed linkage between F13A and the major histocompatibility complex.
Ageing of fixed cytological preparations produces degradation of chromosomal DNA
Authors: Mezzanotte R. , Vanni R. , Flore O. , Ferrucci L. , Sumner A.T.
Published: May 2008

When fixed chromosome preparations were allowed to age for 1–72 h, they became progressively more susceptible to digestion by exonuclease III and by SI nuclease. Analysis of DNA from these aged preparations on agarose gels showed that the molecular weight of the DNA decreased as ageing progressed. We conclude that DNA in fixed chromosome preparations becomes progressively degraded as the preparations age.
Regional localization of the LCA oncogene to human chromosome region 2q14→q21
Authors: Tokino T. , Satoh H. , Yoshida M.C. , Ochiya T. , Matsubara K.
Published: May 2008

A novel human oncogene, LCA, was assigned to re-performed by Southern blot analyses of DNAs from flow-sorted gion 2q14→q21 by in situ molecular hybridization. The present human chromosomes and human-mouse somatic cell hybrids
High-resolution RBG-banding pattern in the genus Tropidurus (Sauria, Iguanidae)
Authors: Yonenaga-Yassuda Y. , Kasahara S. , Chu T.H. , Rodrigues M.T.
Published: May 2008

RBG banding resulting in multiple, clear DNA replication bands was obtained on the chromosomes of Tropidurus montanus (2n = 36) and T. torquatus (2n = 36) after fibroblast culture and BrdU incorporation. High-resolution RBG-banding patterns of prometaphase chromosomes are presented.
Chromosome analysis of five specimens of Mus bufo-triton (Muridae) from Burundi (Africa): three cytogenetic entities, a special type of chromosomal sex determination, taxonomy, and phylogeny
Authors: Jotterand-Bellomo M.
Published: May 2008

This paper presents a chromosome analysis of five Mus bufotriton animals captured near Bujumbura (Burundi, Africa). The five Mus karyotypes fall into three chromosome entities: an “Ivory Coast-setulosus type” (2n = 36/FN = 36), a Robertsonian polymorphic system (2n = 30 or 32/FN = 35), and a “mattheyi type” (2n = 36/FN = 36). The “Ivory Coast-setulosus type” is represented by one female M. bufo specimen, the polymorphic system by two male and one female M. triton specimens, and the “mαttheyi type” by a male Mus specimen whose morphology closely resembles that of M. triton. The phylogenic relationships among these three entities are discussed with respect to taxonomy and the formerly described presumptive ancestral karyotype of African Mus. M. triton seems to present a special sex-determination mechanism; the three animals captured have only one sex chromosome (the X), which is morphologically identical in both sexes.
Mapping of rat prostatic binding protein genes C1, C2, and C3 to rat chromosome 5 by in situ hybridization
Authors: Zhang J. , Dirckx L. , Marynen P. , Rombauts W. , Delaey B. , Van den Berghe H. , Cassiman J.-J.
Published: May 2008

Rat prostatic binding protein genes C1, C2, and C3 were mapped on rat chromosome 5 by in situ hybridization on rat peripheral blood chromosome preparations using three different cDNA probes. Of the grains detected, 15.9%, 25.2%, and 19.6%, respectively, mapped to chromosome 5. For each probe, the label was predominantly located on 5q31, but for C2 and C3 an additional site on 5q21 was found. The results suggest that three genes coding for the different polypeptide chains of rat prostatic binding protein map to the same chromosome and presumably to the same chromosome band.
Localization of the human X-linked gene for chronic granulomatous disease to the mouse X chromosome: implications for X-chromosome evolution
Authors: Brockdorff N. , Fisher E.M.C. , Orkin S.H. , Lyon M.F. , Brown S.D.M.
Published: May 2008

The gene encoded at the human X-linked chronic granulomatous disease locus (cytochrome b245 β subunit) has been mapped to the mouse X chromosome using an interspecific Mus domesticus × M. spretus cross. The localization of this gene provides detailed information on one of the proposed ancestral breakpoints that account for the divergent evolution of the mouse and human X chromosomes.
Isolation of a human laminin B2 (LAMB2) cDNA clone and assignment of the gene to chromosome region 1q25→q31
Authors: Fukushima Y. , Pikkarainen T. , Kallunki T. , Eddy R.L. , Byers M.G. , Haley L.L. , Henry W.M. , Tryggvason K. , Shows T.B.
Published: May 2008

Laminin B2 is one of the three polypeptide chains of laminin. a large, complex glycoprotein synthesized by a variety of cells and specifically deposited in basement membranes. A cloned cDNA that encodes the human laminin B2 chain was isolated and characterized. The human laminin B2 gene (LAMB2) was assigned to region 1q25→q31 by (1) hybridization of the probe to DNA from a panel of human × mouse somatic cell hybrids containing different human chromosomes and (2) in situ hybridization to isolated metaphase chromosomes.
Hypervariable minisatellite regions are sites for crossing-over at meiosis in man
Authors: Chandley A.C. , Mitchell A.R.
Published: May 2008

In situ hybridization to human meiotic metaphase I (MI) preparations, using the labeled minisatellite core sequence λ33.15, showed clustering of autoradiographic grains principally at or around chiasmata, autosomal sites where crossing-over had occurred. For the XY bivalent, the pairing region formed between the terminal regions of the two short arms (Xpter-Ypter), was also a principal site of labeling; in addition, the terminal region of the X long arm (Xqter) was labeled. Control experiments using a member of the human Alu family of dispersed repeated DNA sequences showed a much more randomized grain distribution, with clustering over chiasmata being far less obvious. The data provide support for the suggestion that polymorphic minisatellite regions within the human genome might play a significant role in pairing and/or recombination.
Studies on early replication patterns in the marsupial Sminthopsis crassicaudata: no evidence for XY replication homologies
Authors: Müller G. , Hayman D. , Schempp W.
Published: May 2008

We present here the first detailed replication banding study of a marsupial species using the BrdU-replication technique. A comparison of the structural and replication bands of the chromosomes of Sminthopsis crassicaudata clearly demonstrates that the replication behavior is the same as that described for the chromosomes of eutherians. The early replicating segments correspond to R-bands, whereas the late-replicating regions tend to be situated within Q- and C-bands. Use of this technique clearly reveals an early and late replicating X chromosome. The very small Y chromosome can be subdivided into two replication segments, but no replication homologies can be demonstrated between the X and Y chromosomes of S. crassicaudata.
SV40-transformed human fibroblasts exhibit a characteristic chromosomal pattern
Authors: Hoffschir F. , Ricoul M. , Dutrillaux B.
Published: May 2008

A karyotype study of seven SV40-transformed human fibroblast cell lines was performed using R-banding. Although large variations existed from line to line and, to a lesser degree, from cell to cell in a given line, many common features were found. The most characteristic were chromosome imbalances. Some of the chromosomes or chromosome segments present in excess were, in decreasing order of frequency, the early replicating X, 12q, 3q, 12p, 19, 1p, and 6p. Losses of other chro mosomes and chromosome segments were also frequent and involved lip, 2p, 6q, 10 p, 18, 4q, 8p, 4p, 10q, and 16. These imbalances seemed to correlate with metabolic characteristics, previously described, such as low activities of catalase (lip), superoxide dismutase 2 (6q), and acid phosphatase (2p, lip) and a high ratio of lactate dehydrogenase B (LDHB, 12p) activity to LDHA (lip) activity.
XY females in Microtus cabrerae (Rodentia, Microtidae): a case of possibly Y-linked sex reversal
Authors: Burgos M. , Jiménez R. , Díaz de la Guardia R.
Published: May 2008

Microtus cabrerae is a species with blocks of heterochromatin on both sex chromosomes. Polymorphism caused by extensive deletions affecting these heterochromatic segments exists in both X and Y chromosomes. Of a total of 22 males and 22 females studied, four females exhibited sex pair dimorphism similar to that observed in males. C-banding techniques and preliminary data regarding inheritance support the hypothesis that these specimens are XY fertile females and that this sex reversion is most likely inherited through the Y chromosome of these females.
Banding studies in Cricetulus griseus Milne-Edwards, 1867
Authors: Shibasaki Y. , Rønne M.
Published: May 2008

Representative R- and G-banded karyotypes of Cricetulus griseus and an idiogram based on the banding patterns at the 575-band stage are presented.
Immunocytogenetics
Authors: Haaf T. , Machens A. , Schmid M.
Published: May 2008

Synaptonemal complex (SC) autoantibodies are spontaneously produced by patients with various autoimmune diseases. Immunofluorescence staining of pachytene cells localized the antigen to the central element or transverse filaments of the SC but not to the lateral elements. Specific antibody labeling was confined to the SC at synapsis. Cytochemical tests showed that the SC autoantigen is a basic protein possibly bound to DNA. An unusual characteristic of the SC autoantigen is its species specificity. Patients were found whose sera selectively labeled the SCs of other humans, mice, or newts. The combining of anti SC and anti-kinetochore antibodies provides a new immunocytochemical method for the analysis of SC karyotypes. The optimum conditions for preparation of pachytene cells for visualization by indirect immunofluorescence were determined. The nature and functions of the SC antigen, as well as possible applications of SC-specific autoantibodies in cytogenetics and cell biology, are discussed.
Molecular definition of de novo and genetically transmitted WAGR-associated rearrangements of 11p13
Authors: Lavedan C. , Barichard F. , Azoulay M. , Couillin P. , Molina Gomez D. , Nicolas H. , Quack B. , Rethoré M.-O. , Noel B. , Junien C.
Published: May 2008

We describe a family in whom the phenotypically normal father carries a balanced insertional translocation, ins(14;11)(q23;p12p14). This individual fathered three mentally retarded children, two with a del(11)(p13) and one with a dup(11)(p13). Two other cases of a de novo del(11)(p13) are also described. All four del(11)(pl3) cases presented with WAGR, a complex syndrome associated with a predisposition to Wilms’ tumor (WT), aniridia (A), genitourinary abnormalities (G), and mental retardation (R). Using an approach combining karyotype analysis, determination of the gene copy number, and RFLP studies employing five 11p13 DNA markers, we were able to define the chromosomal rearrangement involved in each case. Analysis of these WAGR deletions provides further subdivision of band p13 on chromosome 11.
Studies of X-chromosome inactivation in trisomies
Authors: Jacobs P.A. , Migeon B.R.
Published: May 2008

Previous studies of human triploidy have implicated the autosomes in the regulation of activity of X-linked genes. To determine if the influence of the extra autosomal set in triploids was attributable to a specific autosomal gene, we examined the pattern of DNA replication in females trisomic for 18 of the possible 22 autosomal trisomies. We find no evidence that a single gene or chromosome in triplicate can effect X-chromosome replication or activity. Our results suggest either that more than one locus in triplicate is required to maintain the activity of two X chromosomes, or that the influence of the extra autosomal set in enabling the activity of more than a single X chromosome is mediated indirectly, perhaps through the agency of increased nuclear size or changes in the cell cycle.
The genes for interleukins 3 and 5 map to the same locus on mouse chromosome 11
Authors: Webb G.C. , Lee J.S. , Campbell H.D. , Young I.G.
Published: May 2008

The cytokines, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, and GM-CSF (encoded by murine genes Il-3, Il-4, Il-5, and Csfgm) belong to a family of secreted glycoprotein hormones that regulate the haemopoietic and immune systems. We demonstrate here using in situ hybridization that Il-3 and Il-5 are both probably located in the segment comprising band A5 and the proximal half of band B1 on mouse chromosome 11 with a possible location point in band B1 near its proximal interface with band A5. In studies reported elsewhere we have shown close physical linkage between Il-3 and Csfgm and also between Il-4 and Il-5. The in situ hybridization results therefore indicate that all four cytokine genes are clustered on chromosome 11 raising the possibility that they arose by ancient gene duplication.
Chromosomal and regional localization of the genes for UMPH2, APRT, PEPD, PEPS, PSP, and PGP in mink: comparison with man and mouse
Authors: Pack S.D. , Zhdanova N.S. , Sukoyan M.A. , Serov O.L.
Published: May 2008

Segregation of mink biochemical markers uridine 5’-monophosphate phosphohydrolase-2 (UMPH2), adenine phosphoribosyltransferase (APRT), phosphoserine phosphatase (PSP), phosphoglycolate phosphatase (PGP), peptidases D (PEPD) and S (PEPS), as well as mink chromosomes, was investigated in a set of mink × mouse hybrid clones. The results obtained allowed us to make the following mink gene assignments: UMPH2, chromosome 8; PEPD and APRT, chromosome 7; PEPS, chromosome 6; and PSP and PGP, chromosome 14. The latter two genes are the first known markers for mink chromosome 14. For regional mapping, UMPH2 was analyzed in mouse cell clones transformed by means of mink metaphase chromosomes (Gradov et al., 1985) and also in mink × mouse hybrid clones carrying fragments of mink chromosome 8 of different sizes. Based on the data obtained, the gene for UMPH2 was assigned to the region 8pter→p26 of mink chromosome 8. The present data is compared with that previously established for man and mouse with reference to the conservation of syntenic gene groups and G-band homoeologies of chromosomes in mammals.
DNA base sequence is not the only factor for restriction endonuclease activity on metaphase chromosomes: evidence using isoschizomers
Authors: Gosalvez J. , Lopez-Fernandez C. , Ferrucci L. , Mezzanotte R.
Published: May 2008

Human and mouse fixed metaphase chromosomes were treated with the isoschizomer sets MboI/Sau3A and EcoRll/BstNl. In both cases we found that each member of the isoschizomer pairs produced different results, indicating that factors other than DNA base composition may affect in situ digestion by restriction endonucleases and that the structure of the enzymes is one factor. We also found that MboI and Sau3A isoschizomers produced the same effect on the chromosomes of the grasshopper Oedipoda germanica. This indicated that differences in the chromatin structure of different species may be important in determining restriction endonuclease activity on eukaryotic chromosomes.
Human differentiation-stimulating factor (leukemia inhibitory factor, human interleukin DA) gene maps distal to the Ewing sarcoma breakpoint on 22q
Authors: Budarf M. , Emanuel B.S. , Mohandas T. , Goeddel D.V. , Lowe D.G.
Published: May 2008

The human gene encoding differentiation-stimulating factor (D-factor) has previously been isolated and shown to be identical to leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). We have determined a fine structure map of approximately 20-kb surrounding the D-factor/LIF gene. Southern blot analysis using a somatic cell hybrid panel shows that the gene maps to chromosome 22. D-factor/LIF was further sublocalized to 22q11.2→q13.1, distal to a Ewing sarcoma (ES) breakpoint, using a second somatic cell hybrid panel. Probes to the 5’ and 3’ regions of the locus and the cDNA were used to screen for restriction fragment length polymorphisms, but none were detected. Analysis by pulsed field gel elec-trophoresis suggests that D-factor/LIF is not near the ES breakpoint.
The human genes for calbindin 27 and 29 kDa proteins are located on chromosomes 8 and 16, respectively
Authors: Parmentier M. , Szpirer J. , Levan G. , Vassart G.
Published: May 2008

Genomic clones coding for the brain calcium-binding protein, calbindin 29 kDa, were isolated from a human library. A fragment containing exon 2 was used as a probe to investigate the presence of the gene in human × rodent somatic cell hybrids. The gene was unambiguously assigned to chromosome 16. The closely-related calbindin 27 kDa gene was previously assigned to chromosome 8. These two genes, deriving from a common ancestor, thus appear to have been separated during vertebrate evolution.
A case of X-trisomy in the mouse
Authors: Endo A. , Watanabe T.
Published: May 2008

An X-trisomy individual, which was found in the phenotypically normal female offspring of an XO mouse, is described. This mouse was infertile, and the ovaries were small and contained only primordial and primary follicles.
Bleomycin hypersensitivity in dyskeratosis congenita fibroblasts, lymphocytes, and transformed lymphoblasts
Authors: Pai G.S. , Yan Y. , DeBauche D.M. , Stanley W.S. , Paul S.R.
Published: May 2008

We studied the responses of several dyskeratosis congenita (DC) cell lines to the DNA strand-cleaving and base-damaging agent bleomycin. Fibroblasts, peripheral blood lymphocytes, and transformed lymphoblasts of six DC patients and an obligate DC heterozygote showed more chromatid breaks than did respective controls exposed to various concentrations of bleomycin during the G2 phase of the cell cycle (P < 0.0001). Unsynchronized DC fibroblasts in culture also showed decreased survival, compared to normals, following bleomycin treatment. DC lymphocytes teated with bleomycin for the final 24 h of culture showed more chromatid- and chromosome-type damage than did normals (P < 0.0001) or G₀-treated DC lymphocytes. Spontaneous chromosome breakage was normal in all six DC cell lines. The ability to distinguish affected and heterozygous DC cells without spontaneous chromosome instability from normals on the basis of their bleomycin hypersensitivity provides a marker for future studies of the pathogenesis of this disorder.
Assignment of the human 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase gene (HSDB3) to the p13 band of chromosome 1
Authors: Bérubé D. , Luu The V. , Lachance Y. , Gagné R. , Labrie F.
Published: May 2008

Three-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSDB3) is the enzyme which catalyses the oxidative conversion of Δ5–3β-hydroxy steroids to the Δ4–3-keto configuration and is therefore involved in the biosynthesis of all classes of hormonal steroids, namely progesterone, glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, androgens, and estrogens. Deficiency of the enzyme is associated with congenital adrenal hyperplasia and is usually lethal in early life. Despite its crucial role, chromosome assignment of the gene for this enzyme has not been reported. Using in situ hybridization, we report that hybridization with labeled human HSDB3-specific cDNA yielded 27% of silver grains associated with chromosome 1 with a maximal concentration in the p13 band.
Human gametes and zygotes studied by nonradioactive in situ hybridization
Authors: Pieters M.H.E.C. , Geraedts J.P.M. , Meyer H. , Dumoulin J.C.M. , Evers J.L.H. , Jongbloed R.J.E. , Nederlof P.M. , van der Flier S.
Published: May 2008

A nonradioactive in situ hybridization technique was applied to human gametes and abnormally fertilized or developed zygotes. Using haptenized chromosome-specific probes, visualization was obtained using immunocytochemistry to achieve a fluorescent stain on specific hybrids. Using a chromosome 1-specific DNA probe, almost all spermatozoa gave a positive result, i.e., one hybridization signal per cell could be observed. Furthermore, it was possible to identify sperm cells with two spots, sug gesting nondisjunction. Two cleavage arrested embryos from different patients showed both: two brightly fluorescent spots and two weaker spots with the same DNA probe. Using a Y-specific DNA probe the percentages of positive spermatozoa from the normal males ranged between 48.1% and 49.1%. In an embryo with four grossly haploid chromosome sets, three fluorescent spots were obtained with the Y-specific DNA probe, indicating the penetration of three spermatozoa.
Localization of the human A1S9 gene complementing the ts A1S9 mouse L-cell defect in DNA replication and cell cycle progression to Xp11.2→p11.4
Authors: Zacksenhaus E. , Sheinin R. , Wang H.S.
Published: May 2008

The temperature-sensitive ts A1S9 mouse L-cell mutant is defective in an X-linked gene essential for progression of cells through the S phase of the cell division cycle. A single copy fragment derived from the complementing human A1S9 gene was used as a probe to localize the gene on the X chromosome. Southern blot analysis of human × rodent hybrids and in situ hybridization to human metaphase chromosomes allowed the regional assignment of the human A1S9 gene to Xp11.2→p11.4.