bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of Liver-Type Fatty-Acid-Binding Protein, Fatty Acid Synthase and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Human Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Kawamura Tetsuo , Kanno Ryuzo , Fujii Hiroshi , Suzuki Toshimitsu
Published: December 2005

Objective: A key enzyme of fatty acid synthesis, fatty acid synthase (FAS), is expressed in human cancers, including squamous-cell carcinoma of the lung, and long-chain fatty acids are intracellularly transported and/or taken up from blood by fatty-acid-binding proteins (FABPs). Since the liver-type (L-) FABP, a member of the FABPs, is detected in a subset of gastric adenocarcinomas, the expression of FAS, L-FABP and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was investigated in human lung carcinomas to elucidate the mechanisms of production and transportation of fatty acid(s) in cancer. Methods: Expression of L-FABP, FAS and VEGF in 199 surgically resected lung carcinomas was examined immunohistochemically. Possible associations of the expression of each protein with major clinicopathological factors were analyzed. Results: L-FABP was detected in 60% (120 of 199) of the lung carcinoma cases; detection was increased in large-cell carcinoma (80%) and adenosquamous carcinoma (83%), but low in squamous-cell carcinoma (47%) and in small-cell carcinoma (57%). Overall expression of FAS was 67.3% (134 of 199 cases) and that of VEGF was 86.8% (158 of 199 cases), respectively. Expression of L-FABP was not correlated with the FAS status, but there was a tendency to co-expression of L-FABP and VEGF. There was no association between L-FABP, FAS or VEGF expression and clinicopathological data. Conclusions: L-FABP, FAS and VEGF are highly expressed in human lung cancer, and expression of L-FABP is associated with that of VEGF but not that of FAS, suggesting that L-FABP might be involved in the uptake of fatty acid(s) from the bloodstream.
Immunohistochemical Analysis of Morules in Colonic Neoplasms: Morules Are Morphologically and Qualitatively Different from Squamous Metaplasia
Authors: Ueo Tetsuya , Kashima Kenji , Daa Tsutomu , Kondo Yoshiyuki , Sasaki Atsushi , Yokoyama Shigeo
Published: December 2005

Morules develop in several neoplasms and have been considered as a type of squamous metaplasia despite the absence of keratinization and intercellular bridges. The objective of this study was to clarify the pathological significance of morules and to distinguish morules from squamous metaplasia in colonic neoplasms. Ten cases of morule-associated colonic neoplasms (4 adenocarcinomas, 1 adenoma with carcinoma in situ, and 5 adenomas), and 3 cases of squamous metaplasia in colonic adenocarcinoma were examined morphologically and immunohistochemically. Morules were well-defined structures composed of small, oval to short-spindled cells with bland nuclei, and frequently associated with intranuclear inclusions that were positive for biotin and biotin-binding enzymes (pyruvic acid carboxylase and propionyl CoA carboxylase). On immunohistochemical examination, morules characteristically showed nuclear overexpression of β-catenin, cyclin D1 and p63, low Ki-67 labeling index (<1%), cytoplasmic overexpression of CD10, and no expression of cytokeratin 20. These molecules were useful for the differentiation of morules. Furthermore, p63 and 34βE12 positivities in morules suggested that they have a basal/stem cell phenotype. Thus, morules were morphologically and qualitatively different from squamous metaplasia. We consider that morules in colonic neoplasms are cell clusters with a basal/stem cell phenotype, and have less proliferative and less invasive potential than other cancer cells.
Kidneys, Hearts, Hormones and Immunomodulators: Integrated Understandings
Authors: Levin Adeera
Published: December 2005

The biological processes governing vascular endothelial cell health are complex and highly redundant. The mechanisms involved in cell injury and repair remain an area of intense study. This paper attempts to review current knowledge regarding hormones such as vitamin D, erythropoietin and aldosterone within the context of what we understand of the inflammatory cascade. This is not a comprehensive review of vascular biology, and many important details and background information have been omitted due to space and complexity considerations. The integration of exocrine and endocrine functions within the kidney, the intimate relationship of those functions with vascular health, and the clinical observations of high prevalence of cardiovascular disease in chronic kidney disease warrant a better understanding of this area by clinicians and basic researchers.
Vascular Calcification in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Dellegrottaglie Santo , Sanz Javier , Rajagopalan Sanjay
Published: December 2005

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) represents an extremely common condition, and cardiovascular diseases are frequently reported in this patient population. Traditional risk factors are not accurate prognostic predictors in CKD patients, and new potential markers to predict the cardiovascular involvement in uremic patients need to be identified. Vascular calcification (VC) represents a hallmark of the atherosclerotic process in CKD. This review summarizes the processes responsible for VC (particularly focusing on the mechanisms operative in the presence of renal dysfunction), discusses the utility of computer tomography modalities in the detection of VC in patients with CKD, and reports the potential role of VC as pathophysiological link between kidney disease and cardiovascular events.
Non-Operative Management of Benign Intracranial Hypertension Presenting with Complete Visual Loss and Deafness
Authors: Malomo A.O. , Idowu O.E. , Shokunbi M.T. , Nwaorgu O.G.B. , Oluleye T.S.
Published: December 2005

Benign intracranial hypertension (BIH) may lead to blindness and rarely deafness. We describe the case of a rapidly deteriorating 14-year-old African girl who presented with headaches associated with complete visual and hearing loss due to BIH. This was managed non-operatively with lumbar cerebrospinal fluid tap, weight reduction, nicotinic acid and acetazolamide. Response to treatment was quite dramatic with resolution of severe headaches and regaining of light perception 8 days after commencing treatment. By 3 months hearing recovered to normal and there was resolution of vision. This to the best of our knowledge is the first reported case of complete visual and hearing loss occurring in a patient with BIH, which was managed successfully non-operatively. When indicated, non-operative management is an effective treatment option even in malignant BIH.
Hemorrhage into the Brain Abscess Cavity with Fallot’s Tetralogy
Authors: Kaplan Metin , Topsakal Cahide , Cihangiroglu Mutlu
Published: December 2005

Hemorrhage into the abscess cavity is a complication of brain abscess. It has been reported to be due to inflammation which results in the damage of the fragile neovasculature of the abscess wall. Hypoxia caused by Fallot’s tetralogy or other congenital heart diseases facilitates the damage of these vessels with the lacking supportive tissues, and in turn intracavital bleeding.
Association of the Phe206Leu Allele of the L-Selectin Gene with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Hajilooi Mehrdad , Tajik Nader , Sanati Arashmidos , Eftekhari Hossein , Massoud Ahmad
Published: December 2005

Background and Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the association between the L-selectin Phe206Leu polymorphism and coronary artery disease. Methods: A total of 322 patients (221 men and 101 women) with coronary artery disease in one or more vessels documented by angiography were studied; 157 subjects (85 men and 72 women) without atherosclerosis were included as controls. All subjects were genotyped for the L-selectin Phe206Leu gene polymorphism using polymerase chain reaction with sequence-specific primer (PCR-SSP). To assess disease severity, all patients were classified by numbers of coronary arteries with 50% stenosis. Results: A significantly increased frequency of the 206Leu mutant allele was observed in patients with coronary artery disease compared to the controls. The 206Leu allele frequency occurred in 42% of the patients with coronary artery disease compared to 30% of the controls (p < 0.009). No association was found between the severity of coronary artery disease and the L-selectin Phe206Leu polymorphism. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that carriage of L-selectin 206Leu mutant allele could contribute to susceptibility of Iranian individuals to contracting coronary artery disease.
Food Intake of Children with Short Stature Born Small for Gestational Age before and during a Randomized GH Trial
Authors: Boonstra V.H. , Arends N.J.T. , Stijnen T. , Blum W.F. , Akkerman O. , Hokken-Koelega A.C.S.
Published: December 2005

Parents of short children born SGA often report that their children have a serious lack of appetite and a low food intake. In this study we investigated food intake, by using a standardized 7-day food questionnaire, in 88 short SGA children before start of GH treatment. The intake was compared with the recommended daily intake (RDI) of age-matched children. We also compared the food intake of GH-treated children (n = 62) with randomized controls (n = 26) after 1 year of GH treatment. In addition, we evaluated the effect of food intake and GH treatment on body composition and serum levels of IGF-I, IGFBP-3 and leptin. Our study shows that caloric intake, fat and carbohydrate intake of short SGA children aged 5.9 (1.6) years was significantly lower compared to the RDI for age-matched children. One year of GH treatment resulted in a significant increase of caloric, fat, carbohydrate and protein intake compared to baseline. Compared to randomized controls, caloric, carbohydrate and protein intake increased significantly after 1 year of GH treatment. Short SGA children had significantly lower SDS scores for LBM, fat mass, skinfold (SF) and BMI compared to age-matched references. They also had significantly lower serum IGF-I, IGFBP-3 and leptin levels. GH treatment resulted in a significant increase of height, LBM, BMI, IGF-I and IGFBP-3 SDS and a significant decrease of SF SDS and leptin SDS. In conclusion, our study shows that short SGA children have indeed a lower food intake than age-matched controls. During GH treatment the food intake increased significantly compared to baseline in contrast to the randomized control group.
Prolactin Suppresses GnRH but Not TSH Secretion
Authors: Page-Wilson G. , Smith P.C. , Welt C.K.
Published: December 2005

Background/Aims: In animal models, prolactin increases tuberoinfundibular dopamine turnover, which has been demonstrated to suppress both hypothalamic GnRH and pituitary TSH secretion. To test the hypothesis that prolactin suppresses GnRH and TSH secretion in women, as preliminary evidence that a short-feedback dopamine loop also operates in the human, the effect of hyperprolactinemia on GnRH and TSH secretion was examined. Methods: Subjects (n = 6) underwent blood sampling every 10 min in the follicular phase of a control cycle and during a 12-hour recombinant human prolactin (r-hPRL) infusion preceded by 7 days of twice-daily subcutaneous r-hPRL injections. LH and TSH pulse patterns and menstrual cycle parameters were measured. Results: During the 7 days of r-hPRL administration, baseline prolactin increased from 16.0 ± 3.0 to 101.6 ± 11.6 µg/l, with a further increase to 253.7 ± 27.7 µg/l during the 12-hour infusion. LH pulse frequency decreased (8.7 ± 1.0 to 6.0 ± 1.0 pulses/12 h; p < 0.05) with r-hPRL administration, but there were no changes in LH pulse amplitude or mean LH levels. There were also no changes in TSH pulse frequency, mean or peak TSH. The decreased LH pulse frequency did not affect estradiol, inhibin A or B concentrations, or menstrual cycle length. Conclusion: These studies demonstrate that hyperprolactinemia suppresses pulsatile LH secretion but not TSH secretion and suggest that GnRH secretion is sensitive to hyperprolactinemia, but that TSH secretion is not. These data further suggest that the degree of GnRH disruption after 7 days of hyperprolactinemia is insufficient to disrupt menstrual cyclicity.
Encasement of Bedding Does Not Improve Asthma in Atopic Adult Asthmatics
Authors: Dharmage S. , Walters E.H. , Thien F. , Bailey M. , Raven J. , Wharton C. , Rolland J. , Light L. , Freezer N. , Abramson M.
Published: December 2005

Aim: We evaluated the impact of impermeable bed covers on asthma in asthmatics with clinically relevant house dust mite (HDM) sensitization. Methods: The study included 32 HDM-sensitized asthmatics in whom HDM allergy was considered as a significant factor in their asthma. They were randomized into either an intervention group whose bedding was encased with impermeable covers, or a control group who received cotton covers. Before and 3 and 6 months after encasement, dust samples were collected from the bedding and assayed for Der p 1. Clinical outcomes included quality of life, lung function, bronchial reactivity to methacholine, symptoms, medications and peak flow rates. Results: Baseline Der p 1 levels in both the active and the placebo groups were comparable and high (19.2 vs 18.9 µg/g of dust). There was a significant reduction in Der p 1 levels in the active group after 6 months, but not in the placebo group (7.3 vs 21.9 µg/g of dust). Quality of life improved significantly in both the intervention and control groups, but there was no significant difference in the improvements between the groups. There was no significant change in lung function, symptoms, and requirements for medications. Conclusions: Encasement of bedding significantly reduced the Der p 1 levels. However, this was not sufficient to produce worthwhile clinical improvement in those in whom dust mite avoidance might well have been recommended as part of their clinical management.
Amino Acid Changes during Successful Pregnancy in a Case of Lysinuric Protein Insufficiency
Authors: Osada Hisao , Seki Katsuyoshi
Published: December 2005

Lysinuric protein insufficiency (LPI) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder, and pregnancy in patients with this condition has been considered risky. We, however, observed a relatively favorable course of pregnancy in a woman with LPI, and even amelioration of symptoms during pregnancy. We believe that this unique observation is not only important for patients with LPI who are facing a choice of child-bearing, but is also of interest to obstetricians and researchers of amino acid metabolism.
Plasma Interleukin-18 Levels in Hemodialysis Patients: Increased by Dialysis Process and Association with Interleukin-6 and Tumor Necrotic Factor-α
Authors: Chiang Chih-Kang , Huang Jen-Wen , Hsu Shih-Ping , Ho Tai-I , Pai Mei-Fen , Peng Yu-Sen , Liu Shing-Hwa , Hung Kuan-Yu , Tsai Tun-Jun
Published: December 2005

Background/Aims: This study investigated changes of interleukin-18 (IL-18) levels before and after dialysis, and the possible association with other pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Methods: Plasma IL-18 of healthy controls, and pre- and post-dialysis of uremic patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) were evaluated by ELISA methodology. Results: Plasma IL-18 levels were significantly increased in patients with maintenance HD (p <0.001) compared to its level in normal subjects. When compared to pre-dialysis levels, a significant increase in plasma IL-18 was measured at the end of HD (p = 0.032). There was a significant correlation among plasma IL-18, IL-6 and TNF-α levels in HD patients. Conclusion: Plasma IL-18 concentration was significantly higher in HD patients and was significantly elevated by cellulose-based HD processes. Pre-activation of immunologically active cells may contribute to the association between pre-dialysis IL-18 and post-dialysis IL-6 and TNF-α levels.
Combining 2nd-Trimester Maternal Serum Homocysteine Levels and Uterine Artery Doppler for Prediction of Preeclampsia and Isolated Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Authors: Onalan Reside , Onalan Gogsen , Gunenc Ziya , Karabulut Erdem
Published: December 2005

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of a combined 2nd-trimester maternal serum homocysteine and uterine artery Doppler screening at 20 weeks of gestation for complications of pregnancy: preeclampsia, isolated intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), placental abruption, and stillbirths. Methods: Consecutive singleton pregnancies without previous risk factors who had homocysteine measured as part of a serum-screening program for trisomy 21 had uterine artery Doppler performed. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, odds ratio, and positive and negative likelihood ratios for the subsequent development of preeclampsia, isolated IUGR, placental abruption, stillbirth, and preterm delivery were calculated for the following methods (1) homocysteine cutoff level 6.3 µmol/l (95th centile); (2) on Doppler ultrasound bilateral notches with a mean resistance index (RI) >0.55 (50th centile), all unilateral notches with a mean RI >0.65 (80th centile), and absence of notches with a mean RI >0.7 (95th centile), and (3) Doppler ultrasound notch evaluation (bilateral, unilateral, absence as in method 2) combined with the homocysteine cutof level of 6.3 µmol/l. Results: By using a logistic regression model, methods 1 and 2 predicted preeclampsia (p < 0.001), isolated IUGR (p < 0.01), and ‘any complication’ (p < 0.01). The sensitivity for prediction of preeclampsia using the combined method (3) was 61.3% for a false-positive rate of 2%, better than that for isolated IUGR (54%) below the 5th centile and ‘any complication’(56%). Conclusion: This prospective study confirms the potential of a combined method of elevated homocysteine and uterine artery Doppler screening for preeclampsia, isolated IUGR, and any obstetric complication.
Multiple Sclerosis Mortality and Patterns of Comorbidity in the United States from 1990 to 2001
Authors: Redelings Matthew D. , McCoy Lucie , Sorvillo Frank
Published: December 2005

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative condition that can result in cognitive and physical disability and shortened life expectancy. However, population-based information is lacking regarding the mortality burden from MS in the United States. We investigated trends in MS mortality rates and examined important comorbidities in the United States from 1990 to 2001. MS deaths were matched by age, sex, and race/ethnicity with randomly selected deaths from other conditions for matched odds ratio comparisons. The overall age-adjusted mortality rate from MS was 1.44/100,000 population. MS mortality rates increased throughout the study period. MS mortality rates were higher in whites than in any other racial/ethnic group, followed by Blacks, Hispanics, American Indians/Alaska Natives, and Asians and Pacific Islanders. Observed mortality rates were more than 10 times lower in Asians and Pacific Islanders than in whites. The odds of pressure ulcers, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia/influenza being reported on the death certificate were higher in MS deaths than in matched controls.
Prevalence of Sensory and Cognitive Disabilities and Falls, and Their Relationships: A Community-Based Study
Authors: Gauchard Gérome C. , Deviterne Dominique , Guillemin Francis , Sanchez Jésus , Perrin Philippe P. , Mur Jean-Marie , Ravaud Jean-François , Chau Nearkasen
Published: December 2005

This study assessed the prevalence of sensory and cognitive disabilities and falls for various age groups, sexes, and socio-occupational categories, and their associations in the Lorraine population.The sample included6,159 subjects, aged 15 years or more, randomly selected from the Lorraine population. They filled in a mailed questionnaire including socio-demographic characteristics, job, falls with physical injuries at the time of the survey, and sensory and cognitive disabilities. Data analysis was made via the adjusted odds ratios.The prevalences of sensory and cognitive disabilities were 3.0 and 4.7%, respectively, that of falls with physical injuries 2.4%: 1.2% for falls on the same level and 1.2% for falls to a lower level. Subjects aged over 70 were markedly affected, but the other age groups had relatively high prevalences as well; the workmen had the highest prevalence, followed by the foremen, farmers, craftsmen and tradesmen, and employees. A twofold risk independently of age, sex and job was found for the subjects with sensory or cognitive disabilities for all falls combined.These findings show the high prevalences of sensory and cognitive disabilities and falls with physical injuries, and their strong associations in the general population. Preventive measures are needed to detect and follow up the persons with these disabilities, limit their risk of falls and reduce occupational hazards.
Expression Profiling of Crystal-Induced Injury in Human Kidney Epithelial Cells
Authors: Liang Li , Chen Jianmin , Vittal Ragini , Selvanayagam Zachariah E. , McAteer James A. , Deng Li , Tischfield Jay , Chin Khew-Voon , Sahota Amrik
Published: December 2005

Background: Deposition of crystals within tubular lumens is a feature of many kidney stone diseases, including crystals of calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) in primary hyperoxaluria and of 2,8-dihydroxyadenine (DHA) in adenine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency. Crystals are injurious to renal epithelial cells, but the molecular bases of cell injury have not been well characterized. Methods: We used a cDNA microarray to identify the time-dependent changes in gene expression associated with the interaction of COM or DHA crystals with primary cultures of normal human kidney cortical epithelial cells. Results: We observed gene expression changes that were common to both crystal types, as well as a number of crystal-specific responses. A subset of genes known to be aberrantly expressed in kidney tissue from stone formers also showed an altered expression in COM- or DHA-treated normal human kidney cortical epithelial cells. Conclusions: Our results show that cultured epithelial cells exposed to COM or DHA crystals demonstrate cellular responses that may be physiologically relevant, thus suggesting that this experimental system may be useful for elucidating the mechanisms of crystal-induced renal cell injury.
Connective Tissue Growth Factor-Mediated Angiotensin II-Induced Hypertrophy of Proximal Tubular Cells
Authors: Liu Bi-Cheng , Chen Long , Sun Jing , Huang Hai-Quan , Ma Kun-Ling , Liu Hong , Liu Dian-Ge , Zhang Xiao-Liang
Published: December 2005

Background: Cellular hypertrophy is an early, important pathological feature of renal diseases such as diabetic nephropathy and remnant kidney. Recent studies have demonstrated that angiotensin II (AngII) plays a key role in mediating cell hypertrophy. The aim of our work was to explore the role of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in mediating AngII-induced tubular cell hypertrophy in vivoandin vitro. Methods: In an in vivo study, male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: control rats, diabetic rats and diabetic rats treated with irbesartan (IRB). The index of kidney hypertrophy (kidney weight/body weight, KW/BW), glomerular tuft area (AG), glomerular tuft volume (VG) and proximal tubular area (AT) were determined. Renal expression for CTGF was detected by immunohistochemical staining. In an in vitro study, the influence of CTGF antisense oligonucleotide (CTGF AS) on AngII-induced CTGF expression and cell hypertrophy was also investigated. Results:In an in vivo study, diabetic rats showed a significant increase of KW/BW, AG, VG, and AT from week 1 onwards compared to normal control, which could be significantly inhibited by using IRB. Furthermore, there was a significantly increasing expression of CTGF in both glomeruli and tubuli in diabetic rats compared to control, and the extent of CTGF expression closely correlated with the severity of renal hypertrophy. Treatment with IRB could markedly inhibit the renal expression of CTGF. In an in vitro study, AngII stimulated the expression of CTGF mRNA and CTGF protein. AngII significantly increased the total protein content in HK2 cells, which was markedly inhibited by co-treatment with CTGF AS. The average cellular diameter determined by scanning electronic microscope showed that the increase of cell size induced by AngII could be significantly inhibited by CTGF AS. Furthermore, flow cytometer study showed that AngII arrested the cell cycle in the G0-G1 phase, which was significantly reversed by treatment with CTGF AS. Conclusion: Our data provide both in vivo and in vitroevidence that CTGF is involved in mediating AngII-induced renal hypertrophy.
Efficacy of Interferon-α in the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C in Dialysis Patients: Two Therapeutic Protocols Compared
Authors: Grgurević Ivica , Vince Adriana , Buljevac Mladen , Banić Marko , Jeren-Strujić Branka , Kes Petar , Kujundžić Milan , Leko Ninoslav , Lukić Ivan Krešimir , Slaviček Jasna
Published: December 2005

Background: Data on the efficacy of particular therapeutic protocols of interferon-α (IFN-α) treatment for chronic hepatitis C in patients on hemodialysis (HD) vary. Aim: To compare the efficacy of two different therapeutic protocols for HD patients. Patients and Methods: 15 hepatitis C virus (HCV)-positive patients on chronic HD at two dialysis centers: 8 patients treated with IFN-α 3 × 3 MU/week s.c. for 6 months (group A), and 7 patients treated with IFN-α 3 × 5 MU/week for 3 months, then 1 × 5 MU/week for another 3 months (group B). End of treatment response (ETR) and sustained virologic response (SVR) were evaluated by HCV-RNA determination. There was no statistically significant difference between the two patient groups according to age, sex, duration of HD and HCV infection. Results: ETR was 87.5% (7/8) in group A and 28.5% (2/7) in group B, being statistically significant (p < 0.05). Although better SVR [50% (4/8) vs. 28.5% (2/7)] and lower drop-out rate [0% (0/8) vs. 28.5% (2/7)] were achieved in group A compared to group B, these differences did not reach statistical significance (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Therapy with IFN-α 3 × 3 MU/week s.c. for 6 months seems to be more appropriate for treatment of hepatitis C in HD patients, mostly due to better tolerability, i.e. lower drop-out rate. These differences could be attributed to different pharmacokinetic properties of the particular therapy protocol.
The nematode community of two Italian rivers (Taro and Ticino)
Authors: Barbuto Michela , Zullini Aldo
Published: December 2005

The Taro and Ticino rivers were sampled (maximum 15 cm depth) for nematodes during 1 year at three sites for each river and some ecological parameters were measured. The yearly mean abundance of nematodes in the river Taro was 23 individuals/10 cm2 and in the river Ticino 79 individuals/10 cm2. In the two rivers five to 15 and three to ten species, respectively, were found. The highest station (Taro 1) of the river Taro was significantly different from all the other Taro and Ticino stations both for number and species composition: bacterial feeders were the dominant group in Taro 1 (mean Maturity Index (MI) was 2.25), whereas unicellular eukaryote feeders dominated the other Taro and Ticino sites (mean MI of 2.85). Chromadorina bioculata was the most common species in both rivers, except at Taro 1, where Eumonhystera dispar dominated. Significant correlations were found between conductivity and unicellular eukaryote feeders and bacterial feeders. For the first time the Distinctness Index δ+ is used for freshwater nematodes. Comparing our communities with other Italian rivers (data taken from the literature), we detected significant differences between polluted and not polluted habitats.
Nutritional requirements for pantothenate, pantethine or coenzyme A in the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Lu Nancy , Balachandar Rekha
Published: December 2005

Caenorhabditis elegans is a free-living nematode cultured in an axenic medium, the Caenorhabditis elegans Maintenance Medium (CeMM), which contains B-vitamins, salts, amino acids, nucleic acid substituents, growth factors and glucose as an energy source. After initial experiments established that either pantothenate or pantethine would satisfy the vitamin B5 requirement in C. elegans, reproduction in the nematodes was measured in eight equimolar concentrations of calcium pantothenate, pantethine or coenzyme A. The optimal levels for pantothenate were found to be 7.5, 30 and 120 μg ml−1. The optimal levels for pantethine and coenzyme A were found to be 35 μg ml−1 and 100 μg ml−1, respectively. Among the three compounds, coenzyme A (at 100 μg/ml) supported a significantly greater population growth and, perhaps, is a more metabolically active form. Mild toxicity was demonstrated for pantothenate at 480μg ml−1, pantethine at 560 and 140 μg ml−1, and coenzyme A was found to exhibit toxicity at 410 and 1700 μg ml−1. Based on our results, we recommend that in the future the CeMM could be supplemented with pantothenate (7.5 μg ml−1) alone.
Horizontal gene transfer from bacteria and fungi as a driving force in the evolution of plant parasitism in nematodes
Authors: Kikuchi Taisei , Furlanetto Cleber , Jones John
Published: December 2005

Phylogenetic studies have shown that parasitism of plants by nematodes has arisen independently on at least three separate occasions. We argue that horizontal gene transfer has played a critical role in the evolution of plant parasitism on each occasion. In addition, we discuss evidence that suggests this process has driven the evolution of other life strategies within the Nematoda and that it may be considerably more common within the Phylum than commonly thought. We review recent literature that shows horizontal gene transfer to nematodes has occurred from both bacteria and fungi.
A nested PCR-based method for detecting the pine wood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, from pine wood
Authors: Futai Kazuyoshi , Takeuchi Yuko , Kanzaki Natsumi
Published: December 2005

Several methods were examined for extracting DNA from the woody tissues of Japanese black pine, including the general CTAB method which proved to be the most successful. To detect the pine wood nematode, the causal agent of pine wilt disease (PWD) in pine wood tissues, PWN-specific PCR was done using a DNA mixture obtained from 80 mg of pine wood tissues and a single pine wood nematode as the DNA template. The results showed that nested PCR could amplify the ITS region specific to the PWN, even though the amount of nematode DNA was extremely small. Also, the PWN could be detected in diseased tissues of several Pinus spp. which had been inoculated with nematodes. The method described here can also be used as a simple and quick detection method for a wide range of wood-inhabiting pathogens.
Differentiation of the Xiphinema americanum-group nematodes X. brevicollum, X. incognitum, X. diffusum and X. oxycaudatum in Taiwan by morphometrics and nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences
Authors: Cheng Yung-Hsiung , Tsay Tung-Tsuan , Ni Hui-Fang , Chen Diann-Yih , Yen Jyh-Herng
Published: December 2005

Morphometrics and molecular variability of the X. americanum-group collected in Taiwan were studied. Morphometric data, derived from the females and their developing juveniles, revealed that the 27 populations comprised four taxa: X. brevicollum, X. incognitum, X. diffusum and X. oxycaudatum, the last species being found to have only three juvenile stages. Further identifications were conducted by analysing the nucleotide sequences of the first internal transcribed spacer (ITS-1), 5.8S gene and second internal transcribed spacer (ITS-2) of ribosomal DNA (rDNA). Pairwise comparisons revealed the sequence differences among these taxa ranging from 3.5 to 21.8% for the ITS-1, 2.9 to 28.6% for the ITS-2 and 0 to 3.1% for the 5.8S. Little or no intraspecific variation was detected in the four species for which multiple populations from different geographical regions or hosts were sequenced. Although X. incognitum is morphometrically closer to X. diffusum than it is to X. brevicollum in mean body length, total stylet length, and percentage position of vulva, there is a higher degree of genetic similarity between X. incognitum and X. brevicollum.
Nematicidal activity of plant essential oils and components from garlic (Allium sativum) and cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) oils against the pine wood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus)
Authors: Park Il-Kwon , Kim Kyung-Hee , Choi Kwang-Sik , Kim Chul-Su , Choi In-Ho , Park Ju-Yong , Shin Sang-Chul
Published: December 2005

Plant essential oils from 43 plant species were tested for their nematicidal activities against the pine wood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus. Responses varied with plant material and concentration. Good nematicidal activity against male, female and juvenile nematodes of B. xylophilus was achieved with essential oils of Cinnamomum verum, Leptospermum petersonii, Asiasarum sieboldi, Boswellia carterii, Pimenta racemosa, Cymbopogon citratus, Mentha spicata, clove and garlic. Garlic and cinnamon oils showed the most potent nematicidal activity among the plant essential oils. Analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry led to identification of three major compounds from garlic and two from cinnamon oil. These five compounds from two essential oils were tested individually for their nematicidal activities against the pine wood nematode. Responses varied with compounds and dose. LC50 values of diallyl trisulphide, diallyl disulphide and cinnamyl acetate against juvenile nematode were 2.79, 37.06 and 32.81 μl−1, respectively. The essential oils described herein merit further study as potential nematicides against the pine wood nematode.
Life stage responses observed amongst fifteen wild Solanum species resistant to Globodera pallida
Authors: Blok Vivian , Bryan Glenn , Phillips Mark , Castelli Lydia , Ramsay Gavin
Published: December 2005

The resistance responses present in 15 wild Solanum species to the potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida were investigated, focusing on hatch, invasion, development, sex determination and fecundity. A wide range of resistance responses was observed among the species, which impacted at different points in the life cycle of G. pallida. For most species a reduced rate of development and subsequent shifts towards an increased male to female ratio, indicative of a poor nutritional host, were observed. However, S. acaule ssp. acaule and S. canasense appeared to possess unique resistance responses, and may comprise valuable sources of new genes for incorporation into potato breeding programmes.
Description of Bursaphelenchus parvispicularis n. sp. (Nematoda: Parasitaphelenchidae) isolated from a dead oak tree, Quercus mongolica var. grosseserrata
Authors: Kanzaki Natsumi , Futai Kazuyoshi
Published: December 2005

Bursaphelenchus parvispicularis n. sp. is described and figured. The new species was isolated from the bark of a dead oak tree, Quercus mongolica var. grosseserrata, and reared on Botrytis cinerea. Specimens were collected from a 2-week-old culture on Botrytis cinerea. The new species has a body length of 894 (711-1012) μm in the female and 764 (600-870) μm in the male, a ratio of 33.4 (29.7-37.1) in the female and 35.6 (31.4-45.3) in the male, and c and c′ ratios of 16.7 (14.8-19.0) and 4.4 (3.9-5.1), respectively, in the female and 24.3 (20.0-28.4) and 2.5 (2.2-2.8), respectively, in the male. The stylet is 14-16 μm long in the female and 13-15 μm in the male; there are three lines in the lateral field; the spicules are small (13 (13-15) μm long) and broad; there are seven (2 + 1 + 2 + 2) male caudal papillae; the 'bursa' varies from roundish trapezoid to rectangular with a concave terminus, and the female tail is tapered with clearly annulated dorsal surface near the tail tip and a rounded terminus. Based upon morphology the new species belongs to the B. hofmanni-group sensu Braasch. However, the new species is distinguished from the other B. hofmanni-group species by the size and form of the spicule, female tail shape, and morphometric values. Based on the molecular phylogenetic analysis of the DNA base sequences of ribosomal DNA and mtCOI gene, the new species was close to two B. hofmanni-group species (B. paracorneolus and B. hofmanni) and to B. hylobianum. This result is in accordance with their morphological similarity.
Long-term efficacy of Pochonia chlamydosporia for management of Meloidogyne javanica in glasshouse crops
Authors: Hoedekie Annemie , Viaene Nicole , Van Damme Veerle
Published: December 2005

Long-term efficacy of Pochonia chlamydosporia, a fungal parasite of root-knot nematodes, was tested in two cropping systems: one consisting of three consecutive lettuce crops and another consisting of one tomato crop followed by two lettuce crops. Plants were either grown in pots in soil inoculated with 5000 chlamydospores of P. chlamydosporia per cm3 soil or in soil without chlamydospores. Fifty or 25 second-stage juveniles (J2) of Meloidogyne javanica per 100 cm3 soil were applied in Tests 1 and 2, respectively. The high nematode inoculum density of Test 1 resulted in considerable plant death, showing that the fungus was unable to control high nematode levels. At the harvest of most crop cycles, fewer J2 were found in soil or roots or fewer egg masses per root system were counted in pots with P. chlamydosporia compared with pots without P. chlamydosporia. A one-time application of P. chlamydosporia was able to slow down the build-up of the M. javanica population for at least 5-7 months.
Response of East African highland bananas and hybrids to Radopholus similis
Authors: Tenkouano Abdou , De Waele Dirk , Ortiz Rodomiro , Whyte Jim , Dochez Carine
Published: December 2005

The burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis, is a serious threat to sustainable banana production worldwide. A promising way of controlling nematodes is through the development and deployment of resistant cultivars. This usually involves crossing triploid cultivars with fertile diploids to produce tetraploids that generally display greater male and female fertility. Selected tetraploids are then crossed with improved diploids to produce sterile secondary triploids. This study evaluates the host response of the most commonly grown East African highland bananas in Uganda. Also, the host responses of diploid hybrids and East African highland banana derived hybrids, including tetraploids and secondary triploids, were evaluated. The individual root inoculation method was used for screening the Musa accessions for resistance to R. similis. The final nematode population of each accession was compared with the final nematode population of a susceptible reference cultivar, Valery, and with the final nematode population of a resistant reference cultivar, Yangambi km5. Results show that, except for cv. Muvubo, East African highland bananas were as susceptible to R. similis as cv. Valery. Four out of 13 tetraploid hybrids were identified with resistance to R. similis, as well as 13 out of 19 diploids and five out of 18 secondary triploids.
A microplot study on Ditylenchus africanus population densities and damage symptoms on groundnut in relation to commercial yields
Authors:   De Waele,   Mc Donald,   Fourie,   Loots
Published: December 2005

Optimum kernel quality is important at all levels of groundnut production and utilisation because of its value as a direct or processed food. Kernel quality can be reduced by many factors but in South Africa the groundnut pod nematode, Ditylenchus africanus, is responsible for severe losses in groundnut crops. The objective of this study was to evaluate in microplots the effect of D. africanus on groundnut yield in terms of commercial grading principles. Differential initial population densities (Pi) of between zero to 7000 and zero to 20000 nematodes per plant were inoculated, respectively, in two separate trials over two consecutive seasons. Significant non-linear relationships were recorded between Pi and nematode densities at harvest (Pf), between Pi and downgrading of kernels (% unsound, blemished and soiled (UBS)) and between % UBS and income earned per tonne. No relationships were found between initial or final nematode population densities and kernel fresh weight. Sufficient evidence was provided that damage by D. africanus on groundnut could be expressed in terms of commercial yield grading stipulations. Therefore, it is possible to estimate the effect of this nematode in monetary terms and to consider control measures in terms of financial gains or losses.
Obligatory amphimixis and variation in chromosome number within and among South American populations of Nacobbus aberrans (Thorne, 1935) Thorne & Allen, 1944 (Nematoda: Pratylenchidae)
Authors: Anthoine Géraldine , Mugniéry Didier
Published: December 2005

There are conflicting opinions concerning the reproductive mode and the taxonomic status of Nacobbus aberrans, so we have addressed these issues by an experimental approach based on the inoculation of immature and vermiform females in in vitro conditions. Complementary information on chromosome number was provided. Five South American populations of Nacobbus aberrans were tested. No population was observed to be able to reproduce by parthenogenesis in in vitro conditions. The basic haploid chromosome number seems to be seven, at least for four of the five populations studied. However, all populations had individuals with haploid chromosome numbers ranging from five to eight, six to eight being the most frequent number, regardless of the 'race' group or the native country. The variation in the chromosome number suggests that N. aberrans may be considered as a set of different karyological genetic entities.
Investigation of resistance specificity amongst fifteen wild Solanum species to a range of Globodera pallida and G. rostochiensis populations
Authors: Ramsay Gavin , Bryan Glenn , Castelli Lydia , Phillips Mark , Blok Vivian
Published: December 2005

The breadth of resistance to populations of the potato cyst nematodes, Globodera pallida and G. rostochiensis, which differed both in virulence level and country of origin, was investigated in 15 wild Solanum species. A range of responses to the populations was noted, with significant interactions observed between the potato genotypes and Globodera populations assayed. Of the 15 wild Solanum species, seven appeared to be potentially valuable sources of wide spectrum resistance with low multiplication rates with all populations recorded. The inclusion of these species into a potato breeding programme is justified by this study.
Steinernema beddingi n. sp. (Nematoda: Steinernematidae), a new entomopathogenic nematode from Yunnan, China
Authors: Qiu Lihong , Zhou Yong , Nguyen Khuong , Hu Xianqi , Pang Yi
Published: December 2005

A new entomopathogenic nematode (EPN), described here as Steinernema beddingi n. sp., was recovered from a single soil sample collected from a cabbage field in the suburb of Kunming, Yunnan province, China, during an EPN survey in 2002. DNA sequences of both the D3 domain of 28S and the ITS regions of rDNA showed congruently that S. beddingi n. sp. clustered with S. affine and S. intermedium but was clearly distinguished from both. The new species can be separated from all other described species of Steinernema, including the two most closely related species mentioned above, by morphological characters of various stages of the nematode, including lateral field pattern and tail shape of infective juvenile, the spicule and gubernaculum shape of the first generation male, and the tail morphology of the first generation female. Steinernema beddingi n. sp. can also be separated from S. affine and S. intermedium by cross-breeding tests.
Effect of Pratylenchus zeae infection on the expression of isozyme activities in resistant and susceptible sugarcane clones
Authors: Mehta Usha , Kathiresan Thandavarayan
Published: December 2005

The constitutive levels of both phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) and tyrosine ammonia-lyase (TAL) activities in roots and leaves were found to be greater in sugarcane clones resistant to the lesion nematode Pratylenchus zeae than in susceptible clones. Investigations on the sequential development of PAL and TAL activities were undertaken in resistant (Co 7717) and susceptible (CoC 671) sugarcane clones infected with P. zeae. PAL activity in both roots and leaves of the resistant clone showed a maximum percentage increase, compared with non-infected controls, at 35 and 14 days after infection (DAI), respectively. However, in the susceptible clone the maximum percentage decrease compared with the non-infected clone was observed at 3 and 14 DAI. TAL activity in the resistant clone showed the maximum percentage increase compared with the non-infected control at 28 DAI in roots and 7 DAI in leaves, whereas in the susceptible clone the maximum percentage decrease compared with the non-infected control was at 35 DAI in roots and 28 DAI in leaves. In experiments on the induction of enzyme response to infection by P. zeae, eight resistant and eight susceptible clones were analysed 14 days after P. zeae infection. Among the eight resistant clones six showed increased PAL activity compared with non-infected clones. Four susceptible infected clones showed a decrease as compared with non-infected clones, while the remaining four infected clones showed an increased enzyme activity compared to non-infected clones. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity increased quantitatively in both roots and leaves from nematode-infected susceptible clones compared to non-infected clones. The SOD activity decreased in roots and leaves from nematode infected resistant clones, when compared to the non-infected-resistant clones. In native PAGE analysis of SOD and esterase activities the major differences between infected and non-infected clones of resistant and susceptible sugarcane were observed in low and medium electrophoretic mobility ranges.
Nanomaterials for Lithium-ion Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Liu Hua Kun , Wang Guo Xiu , Guo Zaiping , Wang Jiazhao , Konstantinov Kosta
Published: December 2005

In lithium-ion batteries, nanocrystalline intermetallic alloys, nanosized composite materials, carbon nanotubes, and nanosized transition-metal oxides are all promising new anode materials, while nanosized LiCoO2, LiFePO4, LiMn2 O4, and LiMn2O4
show higher capacity and better cycle life as cathode materials than their usual larger-particle equivalents. The addition of nanosized metal-oxide powders to polymer electrolyte improves the performance of the polymer electrolyte for all solid-state lithium rechargeable batteries. To meet
the challenge of global warming, a new generation of lithium rechargeable batteries with excellent safety, reliability, and cycling life is needed, i.e., not only for applications in consumer electronics, but especially for clean energy storage and for use in hybrid electric vehicles and aerospace.
Nanomaterials and nanotechnologies can lead to a new generation of lithium secondary batteries. The aim of this paper is to review the recent developments on nanomaterials and nanotechniques used for anode, cathode, and electrolyte materials, the impact of nanomaterials on the performance
of lithium batteries, and the modes of action of the nanomaterials in lithium rechargeable batteries.