bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the need for routine preoperative latex allergy tests in children
Authors: Sapan Nihat , Nacarkucuk Ergun , Canitez Yakup , Saglam Halil
Published: March 2003

Background
: Recently, there was a great increase in allergic reactions to latex and this brought relatively more concern to the latex allergy. In this prospective study we aimed to identify the frequency of latex allergy in preoperative patients, and tried to clarify whether it is necessary to perform latex allergy tests routinely in the preoperative period or not.

Methods
: A total of 188 children, aged 1−14, who were admitted for various operations, were randomly included in this study and of them, 181 completed the study. Latex specific history was taken from all patients. Latex skin prick tests, challenge tests with latex gloves, total IgE and latex specific IgE measurements were performed.

Results
: Of 181 children, two (1.1%) had positive latex skin prick tests. Latex challenge tests were negative in all children. Latex specific IgE was positive in 12 children (6.6%) as class II or higher, but no patient had allergic reactions in operations. History of repeated operations was a risk factor for latex sensitization. The risk was higher in the presence of both history of repeated operations and history of allergic disease. However, the risk was not higher in patients with the history of only allergic disease, compared to ones who had a history of neither repeated operations nor allergic disease.

Conclusion
: We conclude that routine preoperative latex allergy tests seem to be not necessary because of no allergic reactions during operation in spite of the sensitization of 6.6% detected by latex specific IgE. However, this should be investigated in larger studies.
Role of mizoribine in renal transplantation
Authors: Tsuzuki Kazuo
Published: March 2003

Renal transplantation is the optimal form of therapy for children and adolescents with end‐stage renal disease. Usually histocompatibility differences exist between donor and recipient, so it is necessary to modify or suppress the immune response to enable the recipient to accept a graft. Calcineurin inhibitors (CNI), which include cyclosporin (CsA) and tacrolimus (FK506), give many benefits on the outcome after renal transplantation, but have some toxic effects, especially nephrotoxicity. Therefore, inhibitors of purine synthesis revived as newer generation of more specific inhibitors, mizoribine (MZ) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). The Japanese pediatric renal transplantation clinical study group attempted to reduce and then discontinue steroid administration in combination with another three immunosuppressive drugs, CsA, MZ and anti‐lymphocyte globurin (ALG). This study showed good clinical results. Mizoribine is an effective immunosuppressive drug in human renal transplantaton. However, it is not as popular as other inhibitors of purine synthesis, such as azathioprine (AZA) and MMF, because MZ has been used mainly in Japan and infrequently in other countries. However, MZ is a more useful immunosuppressive drug than AZA, when it is used in combination with CNI.
Alcoholization: The choice of intrauterine treatment for chorioangioma
Authors: Wanapirak Chanane , Tongsong Theera , Sirichotiyakul Supatra , Chanprapaph Pharuhas
Published: March 2003

Chorioangioma is a vascular tumor of the placenta. Most are small and asymptomatic, whereas the large tumors are clinically significant and often associated with polyhydramnios and fetal heart failure. To prevent fetal loss from these complications, many interventions have been proposed, including intrauterine transfusion in anemic cases and fetoscopic surgery to ablate the feeding vessels. The case presented herein had large chorioangiomas, 8 and 4 cm in diameter, associated with polyhydramnios and early signs of hydrops fetalis, diagnosed at 27 weeks gestation. After extensive counseling, we performed alcohol ablation of the feeding vessel of the larger tumor. Signs of fetal heart failure and hydrops fetalis disappeared dramatically. The pregnancy was extended for 2 weeks, followed by premature rupture of the membranes and spontaneous labor at 32 weeks gestation and a surviving female baby, weighing 1360 g, was delivered uneventfully. This preliminary experience suggests that alcoholization may be one of the best choices for this condition due to its high efficacy, simplicity, safety and very low cost. To our knowledge, this is the first report using alcoholization for the treatment of hydrops fetalis secondary to chorioangioma.
Changes in endometrial wave‐like movements in accordance with the phases of menstrual cycle
Authors: Oki Toshimichi , Douchi Tsutomu , Maruta Kuninori , Nakamura Sachiko , Nagata Yukihiro
Published: March 2003

Objective:

To investigate whether endometrial wave‐like movements change with phases of the menstrual cycle.

Methods:

Endometrial wave‐like movements were observed by transvaginal sonographic tomography during 50 menstrual cycles of 20 regularly menstruating women.

Results:

Endometrial wave‐like movements were not observed during the early follicular phase. These movements proceeded perpendicularly to the longitudinal uterine axis and appeared at the midfollicular phase. In the periovulatory phase, waves reached a peak and moved from cervix to fundus. In the postovulatory phase, endometrial wave‐like movements became parallel to the longitudinal uterine axis. In the midluteal phase, most of these waves disappeared. Immediately before menstruation, the waves reappeared moving from fundus to cervix. These movements continued until day 1 of the subsequent menstrual phase.

Conclusion:

Endometrial wave‐like movements change with the passage of menstrual cycle. They appear to play an important role in the transport of sperm and cervical mucus and the excretion of menstrual flow.
A prospective randomized study comparing retroperitoneal drainage with no drainage and no peritonization following radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy for invasive cervical cancer
Authors: Srisomboon Jatupol , Phongnarisorn Chailert , Suprasert Prapaporn , Cheewakriangkrai Chalong , Siriaree Sitthicha , Charoenkwan Kittipat
Published: March 2003

Objective:

To evaluate the postoperative morbidity and lymphocyst formation in invasive cervical cancer patients undergoing radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy (RHPL) with no drainage and no peritonization compared with retroperitoneal drainage and peritonization.

Methods:

Between July 1999 and May 2000, 100 patients with stage IA‐IIA cervical cancer undergoing RHPL in Chiang Mai University Hospital were prospectively randomized to receive either no peritonization and no drainage (Group A = 48 cases) or retroperitoneal drainage and peritonization (Group B = 52 cases). Perioperative data and morbidity were recorded. Transabdominal and transvaginal sonography were performed at 4, 8 and 12 weeks postoperatively to detect lymphocyst formation.

Results:

Both groups were similar regarding age, size and gross appearance of tumor, tumor histology and stage. There was no difference between groups in respect of operative time, need for blood transfusion, intraoperative complications, hospital stay, number of nodes removed, nodal metastases, and need for adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy. Asymptomatic lymphocysts were sonographically detected at 4, 8 and 12 weeks postoperatively in 3 (6.8%), 2 (4.6%), and 3 (7.7%) of 44, 43, and 39 patients, respectively in Group A, whereas none was found in Group B (P = 0.2). No significant difference was found in term of postoperative morbidity in the two groups.

Conclusion:

Routine retroperitoneal drainage and peritonization after RHPL for invasive cervical cancer can be safely omitted.
Indication and Efficacy of Autologous Blood Transfusion for Pregnant Women
Authors: Kuromaki Ken‐ichi , Takeda Satoru , Seki Hiroyuki , Kinoshita Katsuyuki , Maeda Hiroo
Published: March 2003

Objective and methods:

The usefulness of autologous blood transfusion was evaluated in 91 women undergoing autologous blood reservation based on the amount of blood loss during delivery, and the frequency and amount of reserved autologous blood transfused.

Results:

Although the mean frequency of homologous blood transfusion was 0.87% before the initiation of auto‐logous blood reservation, it decreased to 0.41% after the initiation of autologous blood reservation. Among 80 women (87.9%) who underwent autologous blood transfusion, homologous blood transfusion was further required in 5 women (5.5%) due to unexpectedly massive bleeding during delivery. All of these 5 women had a past history of cesarean section due to the presence of placenta previa. Of 24 women with placenta previa who underwent autologous blood reservation (excluding those with a past history of cesarean section), homologous blood transfusion might be required in 13 women (54.2%) due to more than 1500 ml of blood loss during cesarean section, but homologous blood transfusion was avoided in all of these 13 women. Even in women who did not require emergency intraoperative blood transfusion, anemic symptoms were improved by postoperative transfusion of reserved autologous blood without producing any adverse reactions.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that autologous blood transfusion may decrease the frequency of homologous blood transfusion in women with a possibility of massive bleeding during cesarean section due to the presence of placenta previa, a past history of cesarean section, or uterine leiomyoma developing in the anterior wall. Therefore, further distribution of autologous blood transfusion is needed in the future.
MOET: Bangladesh – an initial experience
Authors: Johanson Richard , Akhtar Sayeeba , Edwards Christine , Dewan Farhan , Haque Yasmin , Jones Peter
Published: March 2003

Objectives:
 To summarize the quantitative and qualitative immediate assessments of the Managing Obstetric Emergencies and Trauma (MOET) course and to examine the individual changes in score obtained for each of the scenarios.

Methods:
 Students’ knowledge before and after the course was evaluated with a standardized comprehensive questionnaire.

Results:
 All candidates showed an improvement in postcourse, compared to precourse, scores. In the individual score analysis only one scenario showed a non‐significant change. The majority of other scenarios showed highly significant improvement between the two scores.

Conclusion:
 This paper summarises the development of the first MOET course to be run outside the UK. It demonstrates the reliability of the model‐based scenario foundation with a highly significant improvement in knowledge about obstetric emergency management. Further evaluation of longer term practice changes is now required.
Estrogen Receptor Gene Polymorphism and Bone Mineral Density, Menarche and Constitution in Japanese Adolescents
Authors: Makimoto Fukashi , Miyaguchi Chousei , Tsumura Noritoshi , Akiyama Jitsuo , Hosoi Takanori
Published: March 2003

Objective: To study the effects of genetic factors on bone mineral density, sexual maturity and constitution of the adolescent.

Methods: Bone mineral density (BMD) of 99 high school girls’ radial bone (one third
distal portion) was examined by DEXA methods at intervals of a year between 1997
and 1999 longitudinally. Estrogen receptor (ER) gene polymorphism of the subjects
was examined by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism
(PCR‐RFLP) . Depending on whether the restriction enzyme Pvu II digests the PCR products or not, polymorphism was designated as p or P, also designated x or X by restriction enzyme Xba I. The association between polymorphism of the ER gene, BMD, increase in BMD, menarche and constitution were examined.

Results: Mean BMD at 15.7 years was 0.611 ± 0.046 SD g/cm′, and the increases in BMD at 1 year aftcr and in the next 1 year were 0.0158 ± 0.015 SD and 0.0095 ± 0.015 SD g/cm′, respectively. The genotype distributions were PP : Pp : pp = 20 : 50 : 29 and XX : Xx : xx = 2 : 33 : 64. The Pp group had a higher body mass index (BMI) and higher body weight with statistical significance (BMI : p = 0.03, Body Weight : p = 0.02, p : rejection probability). The Xx group had earlier menarche than the xx group with statistical significance (p = 0.04).

Conclusions: Pvu II grouping of ER gene polymorphism is one of the deteminants of constitution.
Xba I grouping of ER gene polymorphism is one of the determinants of sexual maturity.
A prospective comparative study between hysterosalpingography and hysteroscopy in the detection of intrauterine pathology in patients with infertility
Authors: Preutthipan Sangchai , Linasmita Vasant
Published: March 2003

Aim:  To investigate the accuracy of hysterosalpingography (HSG) in comparison to hysteroscopy in the detection of intrauterine pathology in patients with infertility, where hysteroscopy is the gold standard.

Methods:  A prospective, comparative study included 336 patients undergoing both HSG and diagnostic hysteroscopy. Main outcome measures were sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and accuracy rate of HSG.

Results:  Intrauterine abnormalities were shown on HSG in 286 patients and confirmed in 200 at hysteroscopy. Contrarily intrauterine lesions were detected by hysteroscopy in 4 out of 50 patients in whom HSG were normal. The most common intrauterine finding of 336 patients on hysteroscopy were intrauterine adhesions (IUA) (74), followed by endometrial polyps  (56), and submucous myoma, 26 patients. Statistical analysis revealed that HSG in the detection of intrauterine pathology had a sensitivity of 98.0%, specificity of 34.9%, positive predictive value of 69.9%, negative predictive value of 92.0%, and accuracy rate of 73.2% with false‐positive and false‐negative rates of 30.1% and 8.0%, respectively. The common incorrect diagnoses of HSG were misdiagnosing a condition of cervical stenosis as severe IUA in 24 patients, endometrial polyps as submucous myoma in 22 out of 50 patients, and submucous myoma as endometrial polyps in 12 out of 72 patients.

Conclusions:  Hysterosalpingography is still a useful screening test for the evaluation of the uterine cavity. If a hysterogram demonstrates intrauterine abnormalities, hysteroscopy should be considered to make a definite diagnosis and treatment. Both procedures should be complementary to each other.
Use of microdialysis to study platinum anticancer agent pharmacokinetics in preclinical models
Authors: Johansen Mary J. , Thapar Neil , Newman Robert A. , Madden Timothy
Published: March 2003

Microdialysis sampling of blood and extracellular fluid (ECF) of living tissue offers unique advantages for studying anticancer drug distribution, metabolism, and mechanisms of tumor drug resistance. We applied microdialysis sampling in a rat model to describe the pharmacokinetics of cisplatin and carboplatin simultaneously in blood and several peripheral tissues, including tumor tissue. After IV bolus drug administration, samples were collected every 10 min for 4–6 h using microdialysis probes implanted into the jugular vein, kidney, and either liver or subcutaneously growing breast tumor tissue in anesthetized Fisher 344 rats. Analyte concentrations are expressed as absolute extracellular concentrations obtained by correction of the data for in vivo recovery. For cisplatin, peak renal concentrations (mean, 36.7 and 80.1 μg/mL) always exceeded peak plasma (8.4 and 13.2 μg/mL) and hepatic (6.3 and 10.4 μg/mL) concentrations following 5 and 10 mg/kg doses, respectively. For carboplatin, doses of 20 and 30 mg/kg also resulted in high peak renal concentrations, which were similar at both dose levels (mean, 87.9 and 89.3 μg/mL). However, at 30 mg/kg peak hepatic carboplatin concentrations were increased significantly, resulting in a disproportionate 3.5‐fold increase in mean AUC at the higher dose level. Tumor cisplatin and carboplatin AUCs were similar to that in the circulation, but variable, ranging from 52 to 109% of the corresponding plasma AUCs. Microdialysis was determined to be a reliable methodology for examining the in vivo disposition of platinum anticancer agents in multiple tissue types. Our results revealed expected large renal exposures following IV administration, and variable tumor exposure with dose. Significant increases in hepatic carboplatin exposure with increasing dose suggest a possible mechanism for high‐dose carboplatin‐induced hepatic toxicity.
Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate decreases VEGF production in head and neck and breast carcinoma cells by inhibiting EGFR‐related pathways of signal transduction
Authors: Masuda Muneyuki , Suzui Masumi , Lim Jin T. E. , Deguchi Atsuko , Soh Jae‐Won , Weinstein I. Bernard
Published: March 2003

In a recent study on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells we found that epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG), a major biologically active component of green tea, inhibited activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and related signaling pathways. Since activation of EGFR signaling pathways is associated with angiogenesis, we examined the effects of EGCG on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production by YCU‐H891 HNSCC and MDA‐MB‐231 breast carcinoma cell lines, because we found that both of these cell lines display autocrine activation of transforming growth factor‐α (TGF‐α)/EGFR signaling and produce high levels of VEGF. Treatment with EGCG inhibited the constitutive activation of the EGFR, Stat3, and Akt in both cell lines. These changes were associated with inhibition of VEGF promoter activity and cellular production of VEGF. Mechanistic studies indicated that inhibition of Stat3, but not mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)1 or phosphatidylinositol 3′‐kinase (PI3K), significantly decreased VEGF promoter activity. However, the inhibitory effects of a dominant negative Stat3 on VEGF expression was not as strong as that produced by EGCG. An analysis of alternative pathways indicated that EGCG strongly inhibited the constitutive activation of NF‐κB in both cell lines, and an NF‐κB inhibitor strongly inhibited VEGF production. These results suggest that EGCG inhibits VEGF production by inhibiting both the constitutive activation of Stat3 and NF‐κB, but not extracellular‐signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) or Akt, in these cells. Therefore, EGCG may be useful in treating HNSCC and breast carcinoma because it can exert both antiproliferative and antiangiogenic activities.
Identification of two distinct intracellular sites that contribute to the modulation of multidrug resistance in P388/ADR cells expressing P‐glycoprotein
Authors: Mayer Lawrence D. , Lim Kye‐Taek , Hartley Daria
Published: March 2003

Although the ability of chemosensitizers to modulate P‐glycoprotein (PGP)‐based multidrug resistance (MDR) has been extensively studied, relatively little is known about the cellular pharmacology of the PGP inhibitors themselves in MDR cells. The studies described here have correlated the in vitro accumulation and retention properties of verapamil (VRP) in murine P388 (sensitive) and P388/ADR (MDR) cells with doxorubicin (DOX) uptake and cytotoxicity modulation characteristics in order to better understand VRP–tumor cell interactions that give rise to MDR modulation. VRP is rapidly taken up by DOX‐sensitive and ‐resistant P388 cells where greater than 50% maximal VRP uptake occurs within 10 min of initial exposure at 37°C. Whereas chemosensitization and DOX uptake in P388/ADR cells increase with increasing VRP concentration until a plateau is achieved at approximately 5 μM VRP, cellular modulator levels increase proportionally with increasing VPR concentrations beyond 20 μM. Subsequent to removal of noncell‐associated modulator, VRP levels in both sensitive and resistant cells rapidly fall below 10% of those obtained at uptake equilibrium. However, a residual amount of VRP remains associated with the cells for extended time periods after the cells are washed. Pulse exposures of P388/ADR cells to high concentrations of VRP (50–100 μM) are capable of providing extended cell‐associated VRP levels comparable to those obtained with continuous exposure at biologically active VRP concentrations (1–3 μM) and this leads to chemosensitization. These results are consistent with the existence of high‐ and low‐affinity intracellular VRP pools in P388 MDR cells, both of which can contribute to the reversal of drug resistance. It is suggested that these properties should be taken into consideration during the design and evaluation of preclinical in vivo MDR models where pulsed exposure to high concentrations of resistance modulators often occurs. Special attention must be given to whether such high concentration pulses are desirable and/or achievable in relevant clinical settings.
Ralstonia solanacearum AmpD is required for wild‐type bacterial wilt virulence
Authors: Tans‐Kersten J. , Gay J. , Allen C.
Published: March 2003

A gene resembling enterobacterial ampD was identified in the bacterial wilt pathogen, Ralstonia solanacearum. The gene lies 13 bp 3′ of pehSR, a two‐component positive regulator of virulence factors such as plant cell wall‐degrading polygalacturonases and bacterial motility. AmpD, an N‐acetylmuramyl‐
l‐alanine amidase, degrades and recycles bacterial cell wall components and also plays a role in the induction of β‐lactamase, which confers ampicillin resistance. AmpD is probably not involved in β‐lactamase regulation in R. solanacearum, because the species produces no detectable β‐lactamase activity and is not ampicillin resistant. However, the R. solanacearum ampD gene restores inducible β‐lactamase activity to an Escherichia coli ampD mutant, demonstrating that the gene encodes an AmpD protein that can function in a heterologous background. An R. solanacearumampD chromosomal mutant was motile, produced wild‐type levels of polygalacturonase activity and had wild‐type cell and colony morphology. This mutant also grew normally in minimal medium and in plant tissue. Nonetheless, the ampD mutant was significantly reduced in bacterial wilt virulence on eggplant and tomato, suggesting a previously unsuspected role for N‐acetylmuramyl‐
l‐alanine amidase in plant pathogenesis.
A PR‐5 gene promoter from Asparagus officinalis (AoPRT‐L) is not induced by abiotic stress, but is activated around sites of pathogen challenge and by salicylate in transgenic tobacco
Authors: Kenton Paul , Darby Robert M. , Shelley Greg , Draper John
Published: March 2003

Using a promoter‐uidA (AoPRT‐L‐GUS) construct, we have characterized heterologous expression controlled by an Asparagus officinalis acidic PR‐5 gene promoter. The construct was found to be up‐regulated following a variety of treatments with the defence signal salicylate. Similarly, AoPRT‐L‐GUS was induced by the SA mimic benzothiodiazole, however, unlike salicylate, this compound does not appear to be transported through the vasculature. The construct was insensitive to wounding and to the wound signal jasmonate. Pathogen challenge resulted in a restricted zone of expression at and around the infection site. High levels of NaCl or PEG 8000 failed to induce foliar expression, however, mannitol proved to be an effective inducer when applied as a root drench. The oxidants H2O2 and t‐butyl hydroperoxide also failed to induce AoPRT‐L‐GUS expression. Developmental expression of the construct appeared to be limited to leaf axils, sepal tips, a proportion of anthers and a small segment of tissue just below the stigma. Thus, the AoPRT‐L promoter exhibits a limited expression profile responding principally to salicylate‐related defence signals, and shows very little developmental expression. This suggests that the AoPRT‐L promoter may be an ideal choice for contained gene expression.
Strawberry crinkle virus, a Cytorhabdovirus needing more attention from virologists
Authors: Posthuma Karin I. , Adams Anthony N. , Hong Yiguo
Published: March 2003

Taxonomic relationship: A member of nonsegmented, negative‐sense, single‐stranded RNA viruses of the genus Cytorhabdovirus (type member: Lettuce necrotic yellows virus), family Rhabdoviridae, order Mononegavirales. Members of the family Rhabdoviridae can infect vertebrates, invertebrates and plants.

Physical properties: Virions are bacilliform, 74–88 nm in diameter and 163–383 nm in length with surface projections probably composed of trimers of the glycoprotein G, occurring in the cytoplasm in either the coated or the uncoated form (Fig. 1). The nucleocapsid is enclosed in a host‐derived envelope. Within the virion, the SCV genome consists of a single negative‐sense single‐stranded RNA molecule of approximately 13 kb.

Electron micrograph of strawberry crinkle virus. Bar = 200 nm.

image

Viral proteins: The SCV genome encodes at least five proteins: the nucleocapsid (N) protein (45 kDa), the matrix (M) protein (77 kDa), the nonstructural protein [Ns, 55 kDa, also known as phosphoprotein (P)], the glycoprotein (G, 23 kDa) and the large (L) protein.

Hosts: The natural host range of SCV is limited to species of the genus Fragaria L. Experimental hosts include Physalis pubescens L., P. floridana Rydb., Nicotiana occidentalis, N. glutinosa L. and N. clevelandi Gray. SCV also replicates in its insect vectors Chaetosiphon fragaefolii Cockerell and C. jacobi Hille Ris Lamberts. When injected as purified virus, SCV replicates in aphids Hyperomyzus lactucae (L.), Macrosiphon euphorbiae Thomas, Myzus ornatus Laing, Megoura viciae Buckton, and Acyrthosiphoa pisum (Harris).
White rust (Albugo candida) resistance loci on three Arabidopsis chromosomes are closely linked to downy mildew (Peronospora parasitica) resistance loci
Authors: Borhan Mohammad H. , Brose Edemar , Beynon Jim L. , Holub Eric B.
Published: March 2003

Two accessions of Arabidopsis thaliana (Ksk‐1 and Ksk‐2) were used to identify and map three loci (RAC1, RAC2 and RAC3) of genes that confer Resistance to Albugo candida (white rust). The phenotypes associated with these genes were classified as either FN (necrotic flecks on upper surface of cotyledons and no blisters) for RAC2 and RAC3, or FYN (flecks surrounded by yellowing and no blisters) for RAC1. Both phenotypes exhibited rapid death of host cells penetrated by the parasite (hypersensitive response), with callose deposition commonly encasing the haustorium. F6 recombinant inbred lines were produced specifically for the purpose of mapping each RAC locus relative to molecular markers. Dominant resistance at the locus RAC1 in Ksk‐1 was previously mapped to chromosome 1 between RFLP markers m253 and m254, and co‐segregating with a downy mildew resistance specificity RPP9 in the accession Wei‐0. We report here a fine‐scale map interval and co‐segregating markers for this locus, which in turn enabled mapping of a previously unnoticed source of resistance in Ksk‐1 designated RAC3 that exhibits an FN phenotype hyperstatic to the FYN phenotype of RAC1. RAC3 is closely linked to the RPP8/HRT on chromosome 5, a locus which contains specificities for resistance to downy mildew and turnip crinkle virus. Recombinant inbreds also enabled mapping of recessive resistance at RAC2 in Ksk‐2 to the bottom arm of chromosome 3, in the 6 cM interval between two downy mildew resistance loci (RPP1 and RPP13).
Characterization of a 20 kDa DNase elicitor from Fusarium solani f. sp. phaseoli and its expression at the onset of induced resistance in Pisum sativum
Authors: Klosterman Steven J. , Chen Junping , Choi Jane J. , Chinn Ellen E. , Hadwiger Lee A.
Published: March 2003

DNase released from Fusarium solani f. sp. phaseoli (Fsph DNase) has previously been reported to induce pathogenesis‐related (PR) genes, phytoalexin accumulation and disease resistance against subsequent challenge with the true pea pathogen, Fusarium solani f. sp. pisi (Fspi). This report is a further analysis of DNase production with probes specific for both the gene and protein. N‐terminal analysis of the ≈20 kDa Fsph DNase protein facilitated both the development of anti‐Fsph DNase antiserum and the cloning of the Fsph DNase gene. Utilizing the anti‐Fsph DNase antiserum to prepare an affinity column, we demonstrated that the retention and recovery of the DNase activity was associated with this protein. Fsph DNase protein was detectable by Western analysis in both the fungi and plant cytoplasm within 6–8 h following inoculation of the pea endocarp surface. Partially purified DNase detected via catalytic activity began accumulating within pea tissue at 3 h post‐inoculation. Enhanced fragmentation of pea DNA occurred within 5 h following treatment of pods with Fsph DNase or inoculations with the two fungi. DNA cleavage within the nuclei of endocarp pea cells was detectable via a TUNEL assay at 3 h post‐inoculation. As a result of these findings, we propose that the entrance of Fsph DNase into the pea cell and the signalling of plant defence responses is temporally associated with the damage of host DNA.
Isolation and characterization of novel defence‐related genes induced by copper, salicylic acid, methyl jasmonate, abscisic acid and pathogen infection in Brassica carinata
Authors: Zheng Zhifu , Uchacz Tina M. , Taylor Janet L.
Published: March 2003

To examine the defence response in Brassica carinata we differentially screened a cDNA library made from CuCl2‐treated (Cu) leaves. The sequence of 17 of the 27 cDNA clones examined that showed Cu‐induction had a high similarity to defence genes from other plant species. Among other clones that showed higher expression in the Cu leaves were two cDNAs encoding polypeptides of 351 and 250 amino acids, designated BcCJS1 and BcCJAS1. BcCJS1 had similarity to S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine: salicylic acid carboxyl methyltransferase from Clarkia breweri. However, the enzyme activity was not found in extracts from E. coli expressing BcCJS1. BcCJAS1 did not show extensive similarity to any genes with known function in the databases but it did contain three regions of amino acid sequence that are frequently found in amidotransferases. A third Cu‐induced mRNA, Bcp6PGL, showed very high (86%) similarity to a putative 6‐phosphogluconolactonase (6PGL) from Arabidopsis thaliana. In addition to Cu induction, BcCJS1 expression was induced by methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and salicylic acid (SA), BcCJAS1 expression by MeJA, SA and abscisic acid and Bcp6PGL expression by MeJA. The expression of all three genes increased after Alternaria brassicae infection. BcCJS1 and BcCJAS1 were induced within 1 h after MeJA‐ but not until 3 h after SA‐treatment. The expression of both genes was systemically induced after infection with a compatible or incompatible fungal pathogen. SA systemically induced only BcCJAS1. The effects of various inhibitors of signalling pathways on expression of the three genes were studied.
Identification of gene expression differences between Globodera pallida and G.‘mexicana’ by suppression subtractive hybridization
Authors: Grenier Eric , Blok Vivian C. , Jones John T. , Fouville Didier , Mugniéry Didier
Published: March 2003

Globodera pallida
and
G.
‘
mexicana
’ are closely related nematode species that can mate and form viable hybrids on tomato but usually develop on different Solanaceous plants. Identification of nematode genes involved in parasitism is important for elucidation of disease resistance mechanisms in plants. In this study, we have used suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) to investigate differences between the transcriptomes of
G. pallida
and
G.
‘
mexicana
’ J2s. This provides a basis for further studies characterizing pathogenicity factors in these nematodes. None of the cDNA fragments isolated in the SSH experiments appeared to be completely absent from the other transcriptome. Differences in expression levels of some of the isolated cDNAs between the two species were detected. Sequence analysis revealed that nearly 85% of the cloned sequences are nematode specific and a high proportion were pioneer genes for which no putative homologues were present in the databases. However, homologues of a cellulase and a putative pathogenicity factor previously described from
G. rostochiensis were isolated. The putative roles of these sequences in parasitism are discussed.
Barley yellow dwarf virus: Luteoviridae or Tombusviridae?
Authors: Miller W. Allen , Liu Sijun , Beckett Randy
Published: March 2003

Barley yellow dwarf virus
(BYDV), the most economically important virus of small grains, features highly specialised relationships with its aphid vectors, a plethora of novel translation mechanisms mediated by long–distance RNA interactions, and an ambiguous taxonomic status. The structural and movement proteins of BYDV that confer aphid transmission and phloem‐limitation properties resemble those of the
Luteoviridae
, the family in which BYDV is classified. In contrast, many genes and
cis
‐acting signals involved in replication and gene expression most closely resemble those of the
Tombusviridae .

Taxonomy: BYDV is in genus Luteovirus, family Luteoviridae. BYDV includes at least two serotypes or viruses: BYDV‐PAV and BYDV‐MAV. The former BYDV‐RPV is now Cereal yellow dwarf virus‐RPV (CYDV‐RPV). CYDV is in genus Polerovirus, family Luteoviridae. Genus Luteovirus shares many features with family Tombusviridae.

Physical properties: ∼25 nm icosahedral (T = 3) virions. One major (22 kDa) and one minor (50–55 kDa) coat protein. 5.6–5.8 kb positive sense RNA genome with no 5′‐cap and no poly(A) tail.

Host range: Most grasses. Most important in oats, barley and wheat. Also infects maize and rice.

Symptoms: Yellowing and dwarfing in barley, stunting in wheat; reddening, yellowing and blasting in oats. Some isolates cause leaf notching and curling.

Key attractions: Model for the study of circulative transmission of aphid‐transmitted viruses. Plethora of unusual translation mechanisms. Evidence of recombination in recent evolutionary history creates taxonomic ambiguity. Economically important virus of wheat, barley and oats, worldwide.

Useful websites/meetings: International symposium: ‘Barley Yellow Dwarf Disease: Recent Advances and Future Strategies’, CIMMYT, El Batan, Mexico, 1–5 September 2002,

http://www.cimmyt.cgiar.org/Research/wheat/Conf_BYD_02/invitation.htm

http://www.cimmyt.org/Research/wheat/BYDVNEWS/htm/BYDVNEWS.htm

Aphid transmission animation: http://www.ppws.vt.edu/~sforza/tmv/bydv_aph.html
Identification of regulators of hrp/hop genes of Erwinia carotovora ssp. carotovora and characterization of HrpLEcc (SigmaLEcc), an alternative sigma factor
Authors: Chatterjee Asita , Cui Yaya , Chaudhuri Shubho , Chatterjee Arun K.
Published: March 2003

Erwinia carotovora ssp. carotovora (Ecc) possesses hrpNEcc[hrp = gene for hypersensitive reaction (HR) and pathogenicity], the structural gene for HarpinEcc, the inducer of the HR‐like response and genes for the type III secretion system. In Ecc, RsmA, an RNA‐binding protein responsible for the accelerated decay of RNA species, tightly controls the expression of the Hrp regulon. We document here that Ecc strain 71 possesses several presumed Hrp regulators: HrpXEcc, HrpYEcc, HrpSEcc, and HrpLEcc. Nucleotide sequence data indicate that the regulatory genes occur as a cluster. The data also suggest that HrpXEcc is a putative sensor kinase, HrpYEcc is the cognate response regulator, and HrpSEcc is an NtrC‐like regulator. hrpLEcc consists of a 543‐bp open reading frame (ORF), which encodes a c. 21‐kDa protein product. This protein shares significant homology with members of the extracytoplasmic function (ECF) subfamily of alternative sigma factors, including SigE. To examine the regulatory role of hrpLEcc, we constructed by marker exchange an HrpLEcc− derivative of an RsmA− strain. The levels of transcripts of hrcCEcc, a gene for the type III secretion system, and hrpNEcc were lower in the RsmA−HrpLEcc− mutant compared to its RsmA−HrpLEcc+ parent. The RsmA−HrpLEcc− strain, like the RsmA−HrpLEcc+ parent, caused maceration of celery petioles and produced extracellular pectinases, cellulase, and protease, indicating that the alternative sigma factor is not required for the type I and type II secretion systems, for tissue maceration, or for the production of proteins secreted by these pathways. However, the RsmA−HrpLEcc− strain, unlike the RsmA−HrpLEcc+ strain, did not elicit the HR in tobacco leaves. In addition, the RsmA−HrpL− strain failed to cause symptoms in Arabidopsis thaliana. Genetic and biochemical data revealed that HarpinEcc is required for symptom production in Arabidopsis, but is not sufficient by itself to cause necrosis. These observations raise the possibility that another ‘effector’ protein of Ecc, secreted by the type III system, acts in conjunction with HarpinEcc to trigger responses resulting in cell death in Arabidopsis.
Beet yellows virus: the importance of being different
Authors: Dolja Valerian V.
Published: March 2003

Taxonomic relationship: Type member of the genus Closterovirus, family Closteroviridae. A member of the alphavirus‐like supergroup of positive‐strand RNA viruses.

 Physical properties: Virions are flexuous filaments of ∼1300 nm in length and ∼12 nm in diameter that are made up of a ∼15.5 kb RNA and five proteins. The major capsid protein forms virion body of helical symmetry that constitutes ∼95% of the virion length. The short virion tail is assembled by the minor capsid protein, Hsp70‐homologue, ∼64‐kDa protein, and ∼20‐kDa protein.

 Viral proteins: The 5′‐most ORFs 1a and 1b encode leader proteinase and RNA replicase. The remaining ORFs 2–8 are expressed by subgenomic mRNAs that encode 6‐kDa membrane protein, Hsp70 homologue, ∼64‐kDa protein, minor and major capsid proteins, ∼20‐kDa protein, and ∼21‐kDa protein, respectively.

 Hosts: The principal crop plants affected by Beet yellows virus (BYV) are sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) and spinach (Spinacea oleracea). In addition, BYV was reported to infect ∼120 species in 15 families. Most suitable propagation species are Nicotiana benthamiana, Tetragonia expansa, and Claytonia perfoliata.
Alternatives to pilot plant experiments in cheese‐ripening studies
Authors: Shakeel‐ur‐rehman  , Fox Patrick F , McSweeney Paul L H , Madkor Sabry A , Farkye Nana Y
Published: March 2003

Experimental studies on cheese have several objectives, from assessing the influence of the microflora and enzymes indigenous to milk to evaluating starters and adjuncts. Several studies have been undertaken to evaluate the influence of an individual ripening agent in the complex environment of cheese. Cheesemaking experiments, even on a pilot scale, are expensive and time‐consuming, and when controlled bacteriological conditions are needed, pilot plant experiments are difficult to perform. Cheese curd slurries are simple models that can be prepared under sterile conditions in the laboratory and can be used as an intermediate between test tubes and cheese trials, but probably cannot replace the latter. Miniature model cheeses are similar to pilot plant cheeses and can be manufactured under sterile conditions. Several approaches to assess the role of cheese‐ripening agents are reviewed in this paper.
Sink or swim? Motivating library staff in a time of career stagnation*
Authors: CHAPMAN LIZ
Published: March 2003

The need for motivation among both managers and managed is considered in the current context of library work and practical solutions for positive action are made.
A pilot survey of user satisfaction with the online search service in South West Thames Regional libraries
Authors: LYON ELIZABETH , GILBERT SUSAN
Published: March 2003

A pilot survey of user satisfaction with the online search service in South West Thames Regional libraries was carried out and more than 150 MEDLINE searches were evaluated. The results of the survey suggest that, in general, users are satisfied with the search service. Readers' expectations of the online literature search were found to vary considerably. Retrieval, relevance and reading levels were determined, which showed that only 10% of users were prepared to read more than 15 relevant references. The range of users and reasons for requesting an online search were discussed, and the importance of user education was considered. The survey highlighted some aspects of the search service that could be improved, and identified several areas for further investigation. In conclusion, the concept of quality control and online searching was introduced.
A selected list of journals for medium‐sized medical libraries in developing countries, based on a user study
Authors: OSIOBE STEPHEN A.
Published: March 2003

The findings of a study into the use of different information sources by faculty members in Nigerian medical colleges are presented. The application of the results to collection development strategies is described and a core list of scientific journals generated by the study is appended.
Health information services: a submission to LISC by the Library Association on behalf of its Medical, Health and Welfare Libraries Group
Authors: WILLIS ANNE
Published: March 2003

The Library Association Medical, Health and Welfare Libraries Group was asked by the Library and Information Services Council (LISC) for England to submit a paper on health information services for the lay person and this presented a timely opportunity to consider the situation thus far and possibilities for the future. A working group was set up from amongst those active in the field to pool ideas and experience, and it was fortunate also in being able to include consideration of Elaine Kempson's recently published study Informing health consumers. It was felt particularly that whilst a number of worthwhile services were developing there was no guarantee of adequate local provision and that in the absence of any sort of framework there was considerable danger of duplication of effort and isolation on the part of the practitioners.

The paper was considered by LISC in October 1988 and in the intervening period our recommendation that public library development incentive funding might be used to enable a public library to co‐operate with other local statutory and voluntary agencies in the setting up of a pilot local health information centre, perhaps capitalizing on existing expertise by buying‐in a database such as that of Help for Health, has been fulfilled by the establishment of the Dorset Health Information Service whose progress will be watched with interest.

Nevertheless there is still much to be achieved in this field and it is hoped that this paper will prove a useful basis for continued discussion.
Computerized information sources in toxicology and their use in a poisons centre
Authors: VIDGEN GRANT A. , MADGE BRUCE
Published: March 2003

The increasing volume of calls received by a poisons centre, such as the National Poisons Unit, Guy's Hospital, London is placing the present information services under escalating pressure. Recent developments in the technologies used to store and manipulate data have resulted in a number of public and private computerized systems being made available. In order to maximize the benefit of the new technologies to a Poisons Centre Information Service it would be desirable to create an integrated system to link the currently unrelated systems. Such an integrated system would be capable of retrieving bibliographic information from bibliographic files similar to medline and embase and data from source information files such as rtecs and ecdin, with the user only having to make one enquiry. This paper examines the current position with regard to computerized information sources in toxicology and discusses how an integrated system might improve the efficiency of a poisons centre's information retrieval service and outlines some of the obstacles to the development of such a system.
Library Association Medical Health and Welfare Libraries Group, 1978–1992
Authors: WILLIS ANNE
Published: March 2003

A review of the evolution of the Library Association Medical Health and Welfare Libraries Group relating its organization, administration and activities to its key objectives.
Education for a generation hence
Authors: van Loo John , NASIR JAN
Published: March 2003

This paper examines some theories of learning and illustrates their application in practice, discussing their importance for information specialists. In particular, the encouraging of a ‘reflective’ process which facilitates innovative thought and behaviour change is emphasized as a necessary precursor to changes in the workplace.
Systems used to automate medical libraries—analysis by type of library
Authors: MIIDO H.
Published: March 2003

Analysis of data recorded in 626 questionnaires on systems used to automate medical libraries by type of library showed that academic and industrial libraries automated all serial and book functions to a greater degree that the other types of medical libraries (hospital, governmental, institutional and medical centre). Almost 75% of the academic libraries had automated some or all serial functions; 80% had automated some or all book functions. Half of the hospital, institutional and medical centre libraries (50–51%) performed all serial functions manually; 29–40% performed all book functions manually. No software was used consistently by all types of libraries to process serials or books. Mainframe or minicomputers were used more by academic libraries to process serials and books than personal computers.
Using scientific evidence to improve information practice
Authors: BRADLEY JANA , GARD MARSHALL JOANNE
Published: March 2003

The research policy statement of the Medical Library Association (MLA) takes the position that scientific evidence is the basis for improving the quality of library and information services now and in the future. Research activity is seen as the foundation of an evolving knowledge base for the profession—a knowledge base that will set health sciences librarians apart from others in an increasingly competitive world of information service providers. The statement represents the culmination of many years of activity by association members, during which the role of research in health information practice has been debated. Over a similar time period, the quality movement, with its increasing demand for the collection and use of data, has been growing. Developments such as total quality management (TQM) and continuous quality improvement (CQI) reinforce the centrality of research and its relationship to efficient and effective information practice as envisioned in the MLA policy statement.
Libraries in Scottish Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery: significant achievements in the past, but the future—?
Authors: WHITE JANICE
Published: March 2003

Scotland awaits an announcement from the Scottish Office on the future of its Nursing and Midwifery Education. In the past two decades, significant advances have been made in the provision of library services to the professions through the Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery. There have been advances not only in stock provision, but also in the introduction of information technology, with almost every library using a state‐of‐the‐art library management system. Progress has also been made on staffing, grading and opening hours. The nursing/midwifery library service has benefited from support from the National Board for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting for Scotland and active co‐operation between librarians in the subject area. This paper details achievements and speculates briefly on future possible provision.
Implications of the UNNDERPIN Study* at St George's Hospital, Morpeth, Northumberland
Authors: BANWELL LINDA , CHALK BARRY , DAY JOAN , WALTON GRAHAM
Published: March 2003

UNNDERPIN (University of Northumbria at Newcastle DEvelopment of and Research into the Provision of Information to Nurses and nurse educators) was an 8‐month research project at St George's Hospital, Morpeth, Northumberland. The general aim of the project has been to undertake an examination of library and information services in a climate of change where user information needs are changing and demanding changed services to be provided to meet those needs in order to support patient care and clinical developments. The paper gives an overview of the project describing its background and presenting a summary of the research findings, conclusions and wider implications of the work.