bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrite augments tolerance to ischemia/reperfusion injury via the modulation of mitochondrial electron transfer
Authors: Shiva Sruti , Sack Michael N. , Greer James J. , Duranski Mark , Ringwood Lorna A. , Burwell Lindsay , Wang Xunde , MacArthur Peter H. , Shoja Amir , Raghavachari Nalini , Calvert John W. , Brookes Paul S. , Lefer David J. , Gladwin Mark T.
Published: August 2007

Nitrite (NO2−) is an intrinsic signaling molecule that is reduced to NO during ischemia and limits apoptosis and cytotoxicity at reperfusion in the mammalian heart, liver, and brain. Although the mechanism of nitrite-mediated cytoprotection is unknown, NO is a mediator of the ischemic preconditioning cell-survival program. Analogous to the temporally distinct acute and delayed ischemic preconditioning cytoprotective phenotypes, we report that both acute and delayed (24 h before ischemia) exposure to physiological concentrations of nitrite, given both systemically or orally, potently limits cardiac and hepatic reperfusion injury. This cytoprotection is associated with increases in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Remarkably, isolated mitochondria subjected to 30 min of anoxia followed by reoxygenation were directly protected by nitrite administered both in vitro during anoxia or in vivo 24 h before mitochondrial isolation. Mechanistically, nitrite dose-dependently modifies and inhibits complex I by posttranslational S-nitrosation; this dampens electron transfer and effectively reduces reperfusion reactive oxygen species generation and ameliorates oxidative inactivation of complexes II–IV and aconitase, thus preventing mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening and cytochrome c release. These data suggest that nitrite dynamically modulates mitochondrial resilience to reperfusion injury and may represent an effector of the cell-survival program of ischemic preconditioning and the Mediterranean diet.
Ambient Air Pollution and Preterm Birth in the Environment and Pregnancy Outcomes Study at the University of California, Los Angeles
Authors: Ritz Beate , Wilhelm Michelle , Hoggatt Katherine J. , Ghosh Jo Kay C.
Published: August 2007

The authors conducted a case-control survey nested within a birth cohort and collected detailed risk factor information to assess the extent to which residual confounding and exposure misclassification may impact air pollution effect estimates. Using a survey of 2,543 of 6,374 women sampled from a cohort of 58,316 eligible births in 2003 in Los Angeles County, California, the authors estimated with logistic regression and two-phase models the effects of pregnancy period-specific air pollution exposure on the odds of preterm birth. For the first trimester, the odds of preterm birth consistently increased with increasing carbon monoxide exposures and also at high levels of exposure to particulate matter less than or equal to 2.5 μm in diameter (>21.4 μg/m3), regardless of type of data (cohort/sample) or covariate adjustment (carbon monoxide exposures of >1.25 ppm increased the odds by 21–25%). Women exposed to carbon monoxide above 0.91 ppm during the last 6 weeks of pregnancy experienced increased odds of preterm birth. Crude and birth certificate covariate-adjusted results for carbon monoxide differed from each other. However, further adjustment for risk factors assessed in the survey did not change effect estimates for short-term pollutant averages appreciably, except for time-activity patterns, which strengthened the observed associations. These results confirm the importance of reducing exposure misclassification when evaluating the effect of traffic-related pollutants that vary spatially.
Aminiphilus circumscriptus gen. nov., sp. nov., an anaerobic amino-acid-degrading bacterium from an upflow anaerobic sludge reactor
Authors: Díaz C. , Baena S. , Fardeau M.-L. , Patel B. K. C.
Published: August 2007

Strain ILE-2T was isolated from an upflow anaerobic sludge bed reactor treating brewery wastewater. The motile, non-sporulating, slightly curved cells (2–4×0.1 μm) stained Gram-negative and grew optimally at 42 °C and pH 7.1 with 0.5 % NaCl. The strain required yeast extract for growth and fermented Casamino acids, peptone, isoleucine, arginine, lysine, alanine, valine, glutamate, histidine, glutamine, methionine, malate, fumarate, glycerol and pyruvate to acetate, propionate and minor amounts of branched-chain fatty acids. Carbohydrates, formate, acetate, propionate, butyrate, isovalerate, methanol, ethanol, 1-propanol, butanol, lactate, succinate, starch, casein, gelatin, xylan and a number of other amino acids were not utilized. The DNA G+C content of strain ILE-2T was 52.7 mol%. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that ILE-2T was distantly related to members of the genera Aminobacterium (83 % similarity) and Aminomonas (85 % similarity) in the family Syntrophomonadaceae, order Clostridiales, phylum Firmicutes. On the basis of the results of our polyphasic analysis, strain ILE-2T represents a novel species and genus within the family Syntrophomonadaceae, for which the name Aminiphilus circumscriptus gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Aminiphilus circumscriptus is ILE-2T (=DSM 16581T =JCM 14039T).
Sporosarcina koreensis sp. nov. and Sporosarcina soli sp. nov., isolated from soil in Korea
Authors: Kwon Soon-Wo , Kim Byung-Yong , Song Jaekyeong , Weon Hang-Yeon , Schumann Peter , Tindall Brian J. , Stackebrandt Erko , Fritze Dagmar
Published: August 2007

Two Gram-positive, aerobic, spore-forming rods, F73T and I80T, were isolated from upland soil. A phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences placed both isolates within the genus Sporosarcina, and showed a sequence similarity of 98.9 % between the two strains and a similarity of approximately 94.6–97.3 % with respect to Sporosarcina species with validly published names. The values for DNA–DNA relatedness between the two isolates and related type strains of the genus Sporosarcina were below 28.0 %. For both strains, the major cellular fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0 and iso-C15 : 0. In both cases, the cell-wall peptidoglycan was of the A4α type (l-Lys–d-Glu) and the major menaquinone was MK-7. Diaminopimelic acid was absent from both strains. The genomic DNA G+C contents of strains F73T and I80T were 46.5 and 44.5 mol%, respectively. On the basis of the phylogenetic analysis and physiological and chemotaxonomic data, the isolates represent two novel species of the genus Sporosarcina, for which the names Sporosarcina koreensis sp. nov. (type strain F73T =KACC 11299T =DSM 16921T) and Sporosarcina soli sp. nov. (type strain I80T =KACC 11300T =DSM 16920T) are proposed.
Aspromonas composti gen. nov., sp. nov., a novel member of the family Xanthomonadaceae
Authors: Jin Long , Kim Kwang Kyu , Im Wan-Taek , Yang Hee-Chan , Lee Sung-Taik
Published: August 2007

Two novel bacteria, strains TR7-09T and P2-12-1, were isolated from samples of compost and river sediment, respectively. The strains comprised Gram-negative, motile, non-spore-forming rods, produced creamy white colonies on R2A agar, contained Q-8 as the predominant ubiquinone, contained iso-15 : 0, iso-17 : 0ω9c and iso-11 : 0 3-OH as the major fatty acids, and had polar lipid profiles consisting of phosphatidylmethylethanolamine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and an unknown phospholipid. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that the strains were most closely related to Thermomonas haemolytica DSM 13605T, Silanimonas lenta KCTC 12236T and Xanthomonas campestris LMG 568T (with 92.5, 92.0 and 92.0 % sequence similarity, respectively) and formed a separate lineage within the family Xanthomonadaceae. The combined genotypic and phenotypic data supported the conclusion that the strains represent a novel genus and species, for which the name Aspromonas
composti gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is TR7-09T (=KCTC 12666T=DSM 18010T).
Methylocystis hirsuta sp. nov., a novel methanotroph isolated from a groundwater aquifer
Authors: Lindner Angela S. , Pacheco Adriana , Aldrich Henry C. , Costello Staniec Andria , Uz Ilker , Hodson David J.
Published: August 2007

Strain CSC1T, a Gram-negative, aerobic, methane-oxidizing bacterium, was isolated from an uncontaminated aquifer nearly 20 years ago. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, this strain was identified as a member of the Alphaproteobacteria, most closely related to an uncultured member of the Methylocystaceae as well as two cultured organisms, Methylocystis sp. L32 and Methylocystis sp. SC2. This strain differed from extant species in cell shape, size, expression of soluble methane monooxygenase and its unique spiny surface layers, composed of polysaccharide. DNA–DNA hybridization results showed only 3.8 % relatedness with Methylocystis echinoides NCIMB 13100 and 41.1 % relatedness with Methylocystis rosea SV97T. Based on these genotypic and physiological differences, this isolate is proposed as a member of a novel species of the genus Methylocystis, Methylocystis hirsuta sp. nov. (type strain CSC1T =ATCC BAA-1344T =DSM 18500T).
Clostridium nitrophenolicum sp. nov., a novel anaerobic p-nitrophenol-degrading bacterium, isolated from a subsurface soil sample
Authors: Suresh K. , Prakash D. , Rastogi N. , Jain R. K.
Published: August 2007

An obligate anaerobic, mesophilic, motile and endospore-forming bacterium, designated 1DT, was isolated from a subsurface soil sample. The young culture of strain 1DTwas Gram-positive and formed oval spores that were central in position. Based on the biochemical, chemotaxonomic and physiological data, strain 1DTappears to be a member of the genusClostridium. Strain 1DTwas found to be capable of degradingp-nitrophenol (pNP) at a concentration of 0.5 mM under anaerobic conditions as revealed by HPLC analysis. The major fatty acids were C16 : 0(28.02 %), iso-C17 : 1I/anteiso B (23.05 %) and C14 : 0(10.02 %). The major polar lipid content was diphosphatidylglycerol. Strain 1DTshowed highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity toClostridium aciditoleransJW/YJL-B3T(98.2 %) and similarity was less forClostridium scatologenesATCC 25775T(95.1 %),Clostridium drakeiSL1T(95.0 %) andClostridium carboxidivoransP7T(95.0 %). Phylogenetic analysis showed that it formed a coherent cluster with the species belonging to cluster I of the genusClostridium. The DNA G+C content was 35.5 mol%. DNA–DNA hybridization analysis indicated a mean value of 36.4 % between strain 1DTand its closest relativeC. aciditolerans. Several phenotypic differences from the closely related species were also revealed. On the basis of the polyphasic characteristics, strain 1DTrepresents a novel species of the genusClostridium, for which the nameClostridium nitrophenolicumsp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 1DT(=MTCC 7832T=JCM 14030T).
Sphingomonas fennica sp. nov. and Sphingomonas haloaromaticamans sp. nov., outliers of the genus Sphingomonas
Authors: Wittich Rolf-Michael , Busse Hans-Jürgen , Kämpfer Peter , Macedo Alexandre J. , Tiirola Marja , Wieser Monika , Abraham Wolf-Rainer
Published: August 2007

Bacterial isolates obtained from polychlorophenol-contaminated sites in Finland (strain K101T) and from a Dutch drinking water well (strain A175T) were characterized taxonomically. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, determination of DNA G+C content, physiological characterization, estimation of the ubiquinone and polar lipid patterns and fatty acid content revealed that strains K101T and A175T were similar to Sphingomonas wittichii RW1T but also showed pronounced differences. The DNA G+C contents of the two novel strains were 63.6 and 66.1 mol%, respectively. On the basis of these results, two novel species of the genus Sphingomonas are described, for which the names Sphingomonas haloaromaticamans sp. nov. [type strain A175T (=DSM 13477T=CCUG 53463T)] and Sphingomonas fennica sp. nov. [type strain K101T (=DSM 13665T=CCUG 53462T)] are proposed.
Sediminitomix flava gen. nov., sp. nov., of the phylum Bacteroidetes, isolated from marine sediment
Authors: Khan Shams Tabrez , Nakagawa Yasuyoshi , Harayama Shigeaki
Published: August 2007

A novel bacterium designated Mok-1-85T was isolated from a marine sediment sample collected from Okinawa Island, Japan. Cells of strain Mok-1-85T stained Gram-negative, were catalase- and oxidase-positive and were non-motile. In a neighbour-joining tree based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, the novel strain clustered with the genus Flammeovirga, a member of the family ‘Flammeovirgaceae’. The novel isolate shared low 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities (≤86 %) with the members of the genus Flammeovirga and other related taxa. The major isoprenoid quinone was MK-7 and the predominant fatty acids of this organism were iso-C15 : 0, C16 : 1
ω5c and C16 : 0 3-OH. The G+C content of the DNA was 38 mol%. Combined phylogenetic and physiological data showed that strain Mok-1-85T represents a novel genus and species for which the name Sediminitomix flava gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is Mok-1-85T (=NBRC 101625T=KCTC 12970T=CIP 109411T).
Paenibacillus ginsengarvi sp. nov., isolated from soil from ginseng cultivation
Authors: Yoon Min-Ho , Ten Leonid N. , Im Wan-Taek
Published: August 2007

A Gram-positive, aerobic, non-motile, rod-shaped, spore-forming bacterium, designated Gsoil 139T, was isolated from soil from a ginseng field in Pocheon Province, South Korea, and was characterized using a polyphasic approach. Comparative analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain Gsoil 139Tbelongs to the familyPaenibacillaceae. The greatest sequence similarity was found with respect to the type strains ofPaenibacillus hodogayensis(95.6 %) andPaenibacillus koleovorans(93.8 %). The strain showed less than 93.8 % sequence similarity with respect to other species of the genusPaenibacillus.The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 48.1 mol%. In addition, the presence of MK-7 as the major menaquinone and C15 : 0anteiso as a major fatty acid (27.9 %) justifies its affiliation to the genusPaenibacillus.On the basis of its phenotypic characteristics and phylogenetic distinctiveness, strain Gsoil 139Trepresents a novel species within the genusPaenibacillus, for which the namePaenibacillus ginsengarvisp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is Gsoil 139T(=KCTC 13059T=DSM 18677T).
Rheinheimera chironomi sp. nov., isolated from a chironomid (Diptera; Chironomidae) egg mass
Authors: Halpern Malka , Senderovich Yigal , Snir Sagi
Published: August 2007

A Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterial strain, designated K19414T, was isolated from a chironomid (Diptera; Chironomidae) egg mass which was sampled from Kishon River in northern Israel. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence positioned the novel strain among the genusRheinheimera, with closest similarity toRheinheimera pacificaKMM 1406T. The levels of similarity to type strains ofRheinheimeraspecies were lower than 96.5 %. Isolate K19414Tis aerobic, motile by means of a single polar flagellum, catalase-negative and oxidase-positive; growth was observed at salinities of 0–2 % NaCl and the temperature for growth ranged from 4 to 40 °C. The major cellular fatty acids are 16 : 0 (14.8 %) and 16 : 1ω7cand/or 15 : 0 iso 2-OH (25.76 %). The DNA G+C content is 49.9 mol%. On the basis of its phenotypic properties and phylogenetic distinctiveness, strain K19414T(=LMG 23818T=DSM 18694T) was classified in the genusRheinheimeraas the type strain of a novel species, for which the nameRheinheimera chironomisp. nov. is proposed.
Deinococcus cellulosilyticus sp. nov., isolated from air
Authors: Weon Hang-Yeon , Kim Byung-Yong , Schumann Peter , Son Jung-A , Jang Jaeseon , Go Seung-Joo , Kwon Soon-Wo
Published: August 2007

A pink-coloured bacterial strain, 5516J-15T, was isolated from an air sample from Jeju Island, Republic of Korea. The organism was found to have resistance to UV radiation typical of members of the genus Deinococcus, and it was placed within the radiation of the Deinococcus on a phylogenetic tree based on 16S rRNA gene sequences. Strain 5516J-15T shared low 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity (84.5–87.8 %) with Deinococcus species, showing highest sequence similarity to Deinococcus deserti VCD115T (87.8 %) and Deinococcus indicus Wt/1aT (87.8 %). Strain 5516J-15T had type A3β peptidoglycan with l-ornithine, menaquinone 8 (MK-8) as the major quinone and iso-C12 : 0, anteiso-C13 : 0, iso-C16 : 0 and C16 : 0 as the major fatty acids. Its polar lipid profile contained three unknown aminophospholipids, two unknown polar lipids, one unknown phospholipid and one unknown glycolipid. The DNA G+C content of strain 5516J-15T was 61.3 mol%. Based on the phylogenetic and phenotypic data presented, it is proposed that the unknown strain should be classified within a novel species in the genus Deinococcus with the name Deinococcus cellulosilyticus sp. nov. The type strain is 5516J-15T (=KACC 11606T =DSM 18568T).
Chitinophaga terrae sp. nov., isolated from soil
Authors: Kim Myung Kyum , Jung Hee-Young
Published: August 2007

A novel strain, designated KP01T, belonging to the class Sphingobacteria (phylum Bacteroidetes) was isolated from soil in South Korea and was characterized taxonomically using a polyphasic approach. The strain was found to comprise Gram-negative, aerobic, non-motile, non-spore-forming rods. A phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the strain belonged to the genus Chitinophaga but was clearly separated from established Chitinophaga species. The 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities between KP01T and type strains of established Chitinophaga species ranged from 90.3 to 95.7 %. Phenotypic and chemotaxonomic data (major menaquinone, MK-7; major fatty acids, iso-C15 : 0 and C16 : 1
ω5c; major hydroxy fatty acid, C17 : 0 iso 3-OH) supported the affiliation of strain KP01T with the genus Chitinophaga. Therefore strain KP01T represents a novel species, for which the name Chitinophaga terrae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is KP01T (=KCTC 12836T =LMG 24015T).
Flavisolibacter ginsengiterrae gen. nov., sp. nov. and Flavisolibacter ginsengisoli sp. nov., isolated from ginseng cultivating soil
Authors: Yoon Min-Ho , Im Wan-Taek
Published: August 2007

Two strains (Gsoil 492T and Gsoil 643T) isolated in Pocheon Province, South Korea, from soil used for ginseng cultivation were characterized using a polyphasic approach. Both isolates comprised Gram-negative, aerobic, non-motile, rod-shaped bacteria. They had similar chemotaxonomic characteristics, e.g. containing MK-7 as the major quinone, having a DNA G+C content in the range 42.5–43.3 mol% and possessing iso-C15 : 0 and iso-C17 : 0 3-OH as the major fatty acids. A phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the two isolates formed a tight cluster with several uncultured bacterial clones and with the established genera Terrimonas, Niastella and Chitinophaga in the phylum Bacteroidetes but were clearly separate from these genera. The levels of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity between the isolates and type strains of related genera ranged from 87.5 to 92.4 %. Furthermore, the results of physiological and biochemical tests allowed phenotypic differentiation of the isolates from phylogenetically closely related species with validly published names. The level of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity between the two strains was 99.5 %, whereas the DNA–DNA relatedness value was 44 %, indicating that they represent separate species. On the basis of the polyphasic evidence, a novel genus, Flavisolibacter gen. nov., and two novel species, Flavisolibacter ginsengiterrae sp. nov. (type strain Gsoil 492T=KCTC 12656T=DSM 18136T) and Flavisolibacter ginsengisoli sp. nov. (type strain Gsoil 643T=KCTC 12657T=DSM 18119T), are proposed. Flavisolibacter ginsengiterrae is the type species of the genus.
Hymenobacter xinjiangensis sp. nov., a radiation-resistant bacterium isolated from the desert of Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhang Qiuju , Liu Cong , Tang Yali , Zhou Guoling , Shen Ping , Fang Chengxiang , Yokota Akira
Published: August 2007

A Gram-negative, non-motile, rod-shaped and pink-pigmented bacterium, designated strain X2-1gT, was isolated from a mixture of sand samples collected from the desert of Xinjiang, China, after exposure of the sand to 8 kGy gamma radiation. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing indicated that this isolate represents a novel member of the genus Hymenobacter, with low sequence similarities (<97 %) to recognized Hymenobacter species. Biolog GN2 assays supported this conclusion. Optimum growth was observed at pH 7 and 28 °C. The strain contained MK-7 as the predominant menaquinone and the major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0 (19.5 %), C16 : 1
ω7c/iso-C15 : 0 2-OH (20.2 %), C16 : 1
ω5c (10.6 %), C16 : 0 (6.2 %), anteiso-C17 : 1 B/iso-C17 : 1 I (8.5 %) and C18 : 0 (6.5 %). The DNA G+C content was 54 mol% (T
m). On the basis of the polyphasic evidence presented, it is proposed that strain X2-1gT represents a novel species of the genus Hymenobacter, for which the name Hymenobacter xinjiangensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is X2-1gT (=CCTCC AB 206080T =IAM 15452T).
Loktanella maricola sp. nov., isolated from seawater of the East Sea in Korea
Authors: Yoon Jung-Hoon , Kang So-Jung , Lee Soo-Young , Oh Tae-Kwang
Published: August 2007

A Gram-negative, non-motile and rod-shaped Loktanella-like bacterial strain, DSW-18T, was isolated from seawater of the East Sea, Korea, and its exact taxonomic position was investigated by using a polyphasic approach. Strain DSW-18T grew optimally at pH 7.0–8.0 and 25 °C in the presence of 2 % (w/v) NaCl. It contained Q-10 as the predominant ubiquinone and C18 : 1
ω7c as the major fatty acid. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol. The DNA G+C content was 56.8 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain DSW-18T fell within the cluster comprising Loktanella species. The levels of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity between strain DSW-18T and the type strains of recognized Loktanella species ranged from 94.4 to 98.4 %. The DNA–DNA relatedness data and differential phenotypic properties, together with the phylogenetic distinctiveness, demonstrated that strain DSW-18T was distinguishable from recognized Loktanella species. On the basis of the phenotypic, phylogenetic and genetic data, strain DSW-18T represents a novel species of the genus Loktanella, for which the name Loktanella maricola sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is DSW-18T (=KCTC 12863T=JCM 14564T).
Rhodanobacter thiooxydans sp. nov., isolated from a biofilm on sulfur particles used in an autotrophic denitrification process
Authors: Lee Chang Soo , Kim Kwang Kyu , Aslam Zubair , Lee Sung-Taik
Published: August 2007

A novel thiosulfate-oxidizing bacterium, designated strain LCS2T, was isolated from a biofilm on sulfur particles used in an autotrophic denitrification process. The strain was found to comprise Gram-negative, non-motile, non-spore-forming rods that produced yellow-pigmented colonies on R2A agar. The strain contained Q-8 as the major ubiquinone and 17 : 1 iso ω9c, 15 : 0 iso and 17 : 0 iso as the major fatty acids. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 64.6 mol%. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain LCS2T was found to be most similar to that of Rhodanobacter fulvus IAM 15025T (97.4 % similarity). The results of DNA–DNA hybridization and phenotypic analysis showed that strain LCS2T can be distinguished from all known Rhodanobacter species and therefore represents a novel species of the genus, for which the name Rhodanobacter thiooxydans sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is LCS2T (=DSM 18863T =KCTC 12771T).
Chryseobacterium luteum sp. nov., associated with the phyllosphere of grasses
Authors: Behrendt Undine , Ulrich Andreas , Spröer Cathrin , Schumann Peter
Published: August 2007

Three isolates obtained from grass samples were investigated by means of a polyphasic taxonomic study and were shown to represent a novel species within the genus Chryseobacterium. Comparison of 16S rRNA gene sequences and phenotypic features indicated that the three isolates belonged to a single species. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the closest phylogenetic neighbours were Chryseobacterium shigense and Chryseobacterium vrystaatense, which formed a stable cluster with the isolates; this phylogeny was supported by a high bootstrap value and was obtained using different treeing methods. A DNA–DNA hybridization study with the closest neighbour, C. shigense DSM 17126T (98.3 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity), clearly demonstrated a separate species status for the grass isolate strain P 456/04T. Comparisons involving physiological properties and whole-cell fatty acid profiles confirmed this result at the phenotypic level. On the basis of these results, strain P 456/04T represents a novel species of the genus Chryseobacterium, for which the name Chryseobacterium luteum sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is P 456/04T (=DSM 18605T =LMG 23785T).
A new model Gondwanan taxon: systematics and biogeography of the harvestman family Pettalidae (Arachnida, Opiliones, Cyphophthalmi), with a taxonomic revision of genera from Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Boyer Sarah L. , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: August 2007

The phylogeny of the temperate Gondwanan harvestman family Pettalidae is investigated by means of a new morphological matrix of 45 characters, and DNA sequence data from five markers, including two nuclear ribosomal genes (18S rRNA and 28S rRNA), one nuclear protein coding gene (histone H3), and two mitochondrial genes–one protein coding (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) and one ribosomal (16S rRNA). Phylogenetic analyses using an array of homology schemes (dynamic and static), criteria (parsimony and maximum likelihood), and sampling strategies (optimal trees versus Bayesian phylogenetics) all agree on the monophyly of Pettalidae as well as several of its subclades, each of which is restricted to a modern landmass. While most genera as traditionally defined are monophyletic, Rakaia and Neopurcellia, distributed across Queensland (Australia) and New Zealand, are not. Instead, the species from Queensland, previously described under three genera, constitute a well‐supported clade, suggesting that in this case biogeography prevails over traditional taxonomy. A taxonomic emendation of the genera from Queensland and New Zealand is presented, and the new genus Aoraki is erected to include the species of the New Zealand denticulata group. A biogeographical hypothesis of the relationships of the former temperate Gondwana landmasses (with the exception of Madagascar) is presented, although ambiguity in the deep nodes of the pettalid tree renders such inference provisional. The data suggest that neither the South African fauna, the New Zealand fauna nor the Australian fauna is monophyletic but instead monophyly is found at smaller geographic scales (e.g., Western Australia, Queensland, NE South Africa).

© The Willi Hennig Society 2007.
Paraneoplastic pemphigus
Authors: ZHU Xuejun , ZHANG Bingxin
Published: August 2007

Paraneoplastic pemphigus (PNP) is a life‐threatening autoimmune blistering skin disease. Clinically, it is characterized by severe mucosal erosions and various cutaneous lesions associated with lymphoproliferative neoplasmas. Suprabasal acantholysis and clefts with scattered necrotic keratinocytes are the unique histopathological features. PNP patient sera recognize multiple antigens, which have been identified as the plakin protein family that includes desmoplakin, bullous pemphigoid antigen I (BPAG1), envoplakin and periplakin, and desmogleins 1 and 3. Castleman's tumor, non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma, thymoma, follicular dendritic cell sarcoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia are the commonly associated neoplasmas in PNP. We have also demonstrated that the autoantibodies reacting to epidermal proteins are directly produced by the cells in the associated tumors. Bronchiolitis obliterans is frequently found in PNP and may cause respiratory failure and death. In our experience, the early detection and removal of the tumor and i.v. administration of immunoglobulin are critical for the treatment of PNP.
Eccrine porocarcinoma: Clinical and pathological studies of 12 cases
Authors: SHIOHARA Junko , KOGA Hiroshi , UHARA Hisashi , TAKATA Minoru , SAIDA Toshiaki
Published: August 2007

Twelve cases of eccrine porocarcinoma have been reported at our facility in the past 10 years. All of them were Japanese; half had lymph node metastases; and one‐third died of this disease. Lymph node metastasis was correlated with pathological lymphovascular invasion. Death was correlated with a pathological growth pattern and clinical lymph node metastasis. Sentinel lymph node biopsy was performed usefully in two patients.
Suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 negative regulation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 in platelet‐derived growth factor‐induced fibroblast migration
Authors: NAGAI Hiroshi , TOKUMARU Sho , SAYAMA Koji , SHIRAKATA Yuji , HANAKAWA Yasushi , HIRAKAWA Satoshi , DAI Xiuju , TOHYAMA Mikiko , YANG Lujun , HASHIMOTO Koji
Published: August 2007

Platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) is involved in wound healing, but PDGF‐induced fibroblast migration and the intracellular signaling mechanisms of fibroblast migration are poorly understood. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is involved in migration and is negatively regulated by the suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3). We studied the PDGF induction of fibroblast migration in vitro and the involvement of STAT3 and SOCS3. We found that PDGF activated STAT3 and strongly induced fibroblast migration. Transfection with a dominant‐negative mutant of STAT3 almost completely abolished PDGF‐induced fibroblast migration and STAT3 phosphorylation. Next, we studied the mechanisms that regulate fibroblast migration. PDGF enhanced the expression of SOCS3 by 2.8‐fold at 1 h. Transfection with SOCS3 almost completely abolished PDGF‐induced STAT3 phosphorylation and reduced fibroblast migration to 47% of control, indicating that SOCS3 acts as a negative regulator of PDGF‐induced fibroblast migration. In conclusion, PDGF induces fibroblast migration under the control of STAT3–SOCS3.
Relationship between Kaposi's varicelliform eruption in Japanese patients with atopic dermatitis treated with tacrolimus ointment and genetic polymorphisms in the IL‐18 gene promoter region
Authors: OSAWA Kouji , ETOH Takafumi , ARIYOSHI Noritaka , ISHII Itsuko , OHTANI Michteru , KARIYA Satoru , UCHINO Katsuyoshi , KITADA Mitsukazu
Published: August 2007

Kaposi's varicelliform eruption is the most important problem in treating patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) with tacrolimus ointment. It has been considered that Kaposi's varicelliform eruption occurs due to decreased levels of interleukin (IL)‐18. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between Kaposi's varicelliform eruption and genetic polymorphisms in the IL‐18 gene. IL‐18 gene promoter polymorphisms were analyzed in 21 AD patients treated with tacrolimus ointment and in 100 healthy volunteers. Six AD patients with Kaposi's varicelliform eruption during the treatment with tacrolimus ointment showed significantly higher frequency in G‐to‐C mutations at the IL‐18 gene promoter region –137 compared with 15 AD patients without Kaposi's varicelliform eruption. The 15 AD patients without Kaposi's varicelliform eruption as well as 100 healthy volunteers did not have mutations of G‐to‐C at the IL‐18 gene promoter region –137. These results suggest that the onset of Kaposi's varicelliform eruption following the treatment with tacrolimus ointment is associated with the mutation of G‐to‐C in the IL‐18 gene promoter region –137, and that caution is required when using tacrolimus ointment for treating AD patients with this mutation.
Calf muscle pump impairment and delayed healing of venous leg ulcers: Air plethysmographic findings
Authors: SIMKA Marian
Published: August 2007

There is a need for a diagnostic tool to predict clinical outcome of venous leg ulcer patients, as the prognosis of healing based on clinical data alone has not appeared to be satisfactory. Air plethysmographic assessment of calf muscle pump was performed in the supine and upright position in 129 patients with active ulcers on their legs. All patients were managed in a specialized leg ulcer clinic. Results of air plethysmography were compared to clinical data and time of healing of ulcers. Muscle pump failure was found in 42.6% of extremities (supine position, 33.3%; upright, 22.5%; both, 12.4%). Patients with insufficient pump were older, and their ulcers were larger. Failure of pump was found more often in patients who began the treatment after long, unsuccessful, non‐specialized care. Healing time of ulcers was prolonged in cases with insufficient pump. Regarding the subgroups with good clinical prognosis (patients with small ulcers or with a short history of ulceration), it was found that insufficiency of muscle pump correlated with delayed healing. It could be summarized that venous leg ulcers associated with calf muscle failure were larger, long‐standing, and that their healing even after specialized treatment was delayed. Impaired muscle pump function revealed in plethysmographic examination can be a prognostic factor of delayed healing of leg ulcer. Ulcers with poor prognosis according to plethysmographic findings, and no quick recovery after standard management, should be considered for advanced therapies.
Case of pemphigus foliaceus that shifted into pemphigus vulgaris after adrenal tumor resection
Authors: AWAZAWA Ryoko , YAMAMOTO Yu‐ichi , GUSHI Makiko , TAIRA Kiyohito , YAGI Nobutake , ASATO Yutaka , HAGIWARA Keisuke , UEZATO Hiroshi
Published: August 2007

A 79‐year‐old Japanese woman visited our hospital on 6 May 2003, who had suffered from erythema and crusted vesicles located on the head, face and trunk. The eruptions first appeared in February 2003. Histopathological findings included blister formation spreading from just below the horny layers to the upper squamous layers, where acantholytic cells were observed. Direct immunofluorescence disclosed immunoglobulin G depositions in the epidermal intercellular spaces. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay showed an elevated titer of anti‐desmoglein (Dsg)1 autoantibodies (154 index value), but almost normal levels of anti‐Dsg3 autoantibodies (8 index value in serum). The diagnosis at first was made as pemphigus foliaceus (PF). Topical use of corticosteroids alone could control the eruptions well. Systemic examinations on admission revealed a right adrenal tumor that had caused Cushing's syndrome. Its resection was performed on 24 July 2003. Histopathological diagnosis of the removed tumor was a functional adrenal adenoma. The symptoms had worsened after the resection. Topical use of corticosteroids alone could no longer control the symptoms. Additional p.o. medications of minocycline hydrochloride and nicotinic acid amides improved the symptoms to some extent. However, oral cavity erosions appeared in December 2004, and the titer of anti‐Dsg3 autoantibodies in serum elevated, suggesting a transition from PF to pemphigus vulgaris (PV). p.o. administration of corticosteroids started, which improved the symptoms significantly. To date, there have been no reports of pemphigus complicated with an adrenal tumor that caused Cushing's syndrome in Japan. The present case is particularly interesting in that the symptoms became worse after the tumor resection and that the first diagnosis of PF shifted into PV after the operation.
Reverse latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap for reconstruction of lumbar radiation ulcer
Authors: MOTEGI Sei‐ichiro , TAMURA Atsushi , ABE Marie , OKADA Etsuko , NAGAI Yayoi , ISHIKAWA Osamu
Published: August 2007

The surgical treatment of large, deep defects on the midline of the lower back or lumbar area comprises difficult reconstructive challenges. Various flaps have been designed to reconstruct the defect area. We herein report a 70‐year‐old Japanese woman with a large, deep ulcer in the midline of the lower back, caused by postoperative radiation therapy for eccrine porocarcinoma. The ulcer was successfully treated with surgical debridement followed by reverse latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap. This flap is reliable and useful for reconstruction of a large, deep midline defect of the lower back, having large and bulky tissue with a sufficient blood supply.
Chondrolipoma of the toe
Authors: ITO Ran , FUJIWARA Masao , TAKAGAKI Kenji , NAGASAKO Ren
Published: August 2007

Chondrolipoma is a rare benign mesenchymoma composed of mature cartilage and adipose tissue. We present a 71‐year‐old man with a chondrolipoma of the great toe. On histological examination, the tumor contained both mature fat cells and chondrocytes. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a chondrolipoma on the toe. This case contributes to better awareness of an extremely rare lesion of the distal lower limb.
Juvenile generalized pustular psoriasis
Authors: XIAO Ting , LI Bo , HE Chun‐Di , CHEN Hong‐Duo
Published: August 2007

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is an erythrodermic, generalized form of pustular psoriasis. GPP is rare in children. The present study describes a case of juvenile GPP and reviews 12 juvenile GPP inpatients treated at our hospital in the period 1978–2005.
Pilot study of MDR1 gene transfer into hematopoietic stem cells and chemoprotection in metastatic breast cancer patients
Authors: Takahashi Shunji , Aiba Keisuke , Ito Yoshinori , Hatake Kiyohiko , Nakane Minoru , Kobayashi Takayuki , Minowa Sayuri , Shibata Harumi , Mitsuhashi Junko , Tsukahara Satomi , Ishikawa Etsuko , Suzuki Rieko , Tsuruo Takashi , Sugimoto Yoshikazu
Published: August 2007

A major problem in high‐dose chemotherapy with autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is insufficient function of reconstituted bone marrow that limits the efficacy of post‐transplantation chemotherapy. Because transduction of hematopoietic stem cells with the multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1) gene might circumvent this problem, we conducted a pilot study of MDR1 gene therapy against metastatic breast cancer. Peripheral blood stem cells were harvested, and one‐third of the cells were transduced with MDR1 retrovirus. After the reconstitution of bone marrow function, the patients received high‐dose chemotherapy with transplantation of both MDR1‐transduced and unprocessed peripheral blood stem cells. The patients then received docetaxel chemotherapy. Two patients received transplantation of the MDR1‐transduced cells in 2001. Peripheral blood MDR1‐transduced leukocytes were 3–5% of the total cells after transplantation, but decreased gradually. During docetaxel chemotherapy, an increase in the rate of MDR1‐transduced leukocytes (up to 10%) was observed. Comparison of docetaxel‐induced granulocytopenia in the two patients suggested a bone marrow‐protective effect of the MDR1‐transduced cells. No serious side‐effect was observed, and the patients were in complete remission for more than 3 years. The MDR1‐transduced cells gradually decreased and disappeared almost entirely by the end of 2004. Results of linear amplification‐mediated polymerase chain reaction of the MDR1‐transduced leukocytes suggested no sign of abnormal amplification of the transduced cells. A third patient received transplantation of the MDR1‐transduced cells in 2004. These results suggest the feasibility of our MDR1 gene therapy against metastatic breast cancer, and follow‐up is ongoing. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1609–1616)
Overexpression of CYP2A6 in human colorectal tumors
Authors: Matsuda Yoko , Saoo Kousuke , Yamakawa Keiko , Yokohira Masanao , Suzuki Satoshi , Kuno Toshiya , Kamataki Tetsuya , Imaida Katsumi
Published: August 2007

CYP2A6 metabolizes various nitrosamines, such as those in the diet and in tobacco smoke, which have been implicated as risk factors for colorectal tumors. To determine whether changes in expression levels could contribute to their progression, we carried out immunohistochemistry for CYP2A6 in human colon tumors. Colon specimens (n = 53) were diagnosed as adenoma (n = 16), adenocarcinoma (n = 30) or carcinoma in or with adenoma (n = 7). Colon tumor cells showed cytoplasmic granular immunoreactivity for CYP2A6. Adenocarcinomas and adjacent mucosa showed similar highly elevated degrees of CYP2A6 expression, whereas carcinomas in or with adenoma and adenomas showed lesser increases. To further determine whether CYP2A6 mRNA was expressed at the same level as the CYP2A6 protein, we carried out in situ hybridization of CYP2A6 in two cases of adenocarcinoma. In situ hybridization for CYP2A6 revealed mRNA expression in adenocarcinoma cells. The data indicate that CYP2A6 may have important roles in human colorectal tumorigenesis and progression, so that it could be a candidate therapeutic and chemopreventive target for colorectal cancers. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1582–1585)
Reduced transthyretin expression in sera of lung cancer
Authors: Liu Liyun , Liu Jifu , Dai Songwei , Wang Xiaomin , Wu Shanshan , Wang Jianing , Huang Lingyun , Xiao Xueyuan , He Dacheng
Published: August 2007

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer death worldwide, and very few specific biomarkers can be used in its clinical diagnosis. Using surface‐enhanced laser desorption–ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MS) to find novel serum biomarkers for lung cancer, we analyzed 227 serum samples, including 146 lung cancers, 41 benign lung diseases and 40 normal individuals. Three peaks, at 13.78, 13.90 and 14.07 k m/z, were significantly lower in lung cancer sera compared with sera from normal individuals (P < 0.001), whereas these peaks were higher than those in the sera of benign lung diseases (P < 0.001). The peaks were identified as native transthyretin (TTR) and its two variants by one‐dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, ESI‐MS/MS, immunoprecipitation and western blot analysis. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay indicated that TTR levels were consistent with surface‐enhanced laser desorption–ionization analysis in all groups tested. It gave 78.5% sensitivity and 77.5% specificity for lung cancer versus normal at the cut‐off point 115 µg/mL, and 66.7% sensitivity and 64.4% specificity for lung cancer versus benign lung diseases at the cut‐off point 88.5 µg/mL. Therefore, TTR may be useful as a biomarker to improve the diagnosis of lung cancer. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1617–1624)
Advocacy for disabled children and young people: benefits and dilemmas
Authors: Knight Abigail , Oliver Chris
Published: August 2007

Recent policy has emphasized the need for advocacy services for children and young people, developments that have gone hand‐in‐hand with greater levels of participation of young people in decision‐making. Advocacy for disabled young people is especially important, as they are a particular vulnerable group and have, traditionally, been even more excluded from decisions about matters affecting their lives. This paper reports the findings, as they relate to disabled young people, from a study that investigated the role of advocacy for looked‐after children and children in need. The paper highlights some of the benefits of advocacy for disabled children, the dilemmas facing advocates between advocating and acting in someone's ‘best interests’, identifying the client and the boundaries between advocacy and social work. It argues that time given to establish a close relationship with a disabled child or young person is crucial if advocacy is to be effective and participation in decisions affecting their lives a reality.
Vascular endothelial cells and eosinophil infiltration in allergic rhinitis
Authors: Matsune S. , Ohori J. , Yosifuku K. , Kurono Y.
Published: August 2007

Eosinophils, as well as mast cells, play an important role in inducing the clinical symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR), especially in the late‐phase response. Adhesion molecules, type 2 helper T (Th2) cell cytokines, CC chemokines, and eicosanoids from mast cells are key players of the pathophysiological mechanism of eosinophil transendothelial migration and accumulation in nasal mucosa. While tethering and adhesion of eosinophils to nasal microvascular endothelial cells are the critical steps, and adhesion molecules and their ligands expressed on eosinophils and endothelial cells have been well studied, regulation of these adhesion molecules and ligands by Th2 cytokines and CC chemokines is thought to be a very important mechanism of eosinophil migration. Eicosanoids such as cysteinyl leucotrienes (CysLTs) and thromboxanes (TXs) from mast cells are also considered to be major factors effective in the expression of adhesion molecules and their ligands, and eicosanoid receptors are thought to be distributed on nasal mucosal endothelial cells. For transendothelial migration, increasing vascular permeability is an indispensable step after trapping eosinophils in nasal microvasculature. While histamine is one of the best known vasodilators in AR, especially in the acute‐phase reaction, CysLTs and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are also effective vasodilators. Much of the evidence to date has been obtained using commercial cell lines of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), which may have cellular characteristics different from human nasal mucosal endothelial cells. Further studies of human nasal mucosa seem necessary to investigate the mechanisms of eosinophil recruitment in nasal mucosa of AR.
Possible role of prostaglandins in allergic inflammation
Authors: Nagai H. , Tanaka H. , Inagaki N. , Teramachi H. , Tsuchiya T.
Published: August 2007

Prostaglandins (PGs) and thromboxanes (TXs) are autacoids that exhibit a wide variety of actions in various cells and tissues. There is persuasive evidence that some PGs contribute to causing signs and symptoms of inflammation. In this study, we investigated the role of PGs and TXs in allergic airway inflammation by using a mouse model. When indomethacin was orally administered to allergic mice, the production of T‐helper type 2 cytokines, IgE antibody, and airway eosinophils and airway responsiveness to acetylcholine were accelerated. We next focused on the role of each PG by using mice lacking specific PG receptor genes. We examined the effects of depletion of PGD2 receptor (DP), PGE2 receptor (EP1, EP3, and EP4), PGI2 receptor (IP), and TxA2 receptor (TP) genes on the development of allergic inflammation in mice. As a result, allergic inflammation in the airway was accelerated in EP3 and IP gene knockout mice whereas inflammation was clearly suppressed in DP and TP gene‐deficient mice. These data suggest that PGE2 and PGI2 might have a suppressive role whereas PGD2 and TxA2 have pathological roles in the development of allergic airway inflammation.