bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serratia ureilytica sp. nov., a novel urea-utilizing species
Authors: Bhadra Bhaskar , Roy Pradosh , Chakraborty Ranadhir
Published: September 2005

A Gram-negative, rod-shaped, urea-dissolving and non-spore-forming bacterium, designated strain NiVa 51T, was isolated from water of the River Torsa in Hasimara, Jalpaiguri district, West Bengal, India. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, strain NiVa 51Twas shown to belong to theγ-Proteobacteriaand to be related toSerratia marcescenssubsp.sakuensis(98·35 %) andS. marcescenssubsp.marcescens(98·30 %); however, strain NiVa 51Texhibited only 43·7 % similarity toS. marcescensby DNA–DNA hybridization. The G+C content of the genomic DNA of the isolate was 60 mol%. Both biochemical characteristics and fatty acid analysis data supported the affiliation of strain NiVa 51Tto the genusSerratia. Furthermore, strain NiVa 51Twas found to utilize urea as nitrogen source. The results of DNA–DNA hybridization as well as physiological and biochemical tests allowed genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of strain NiVa 51Tfrom recognizedSerratiaspecies. Strain NiVa 51Ttherefore represents a novel species, for which the nameSerratia ureilyticasp. nov. is proposed, with type strain NiVa 51T(=LMG 22860T=CCUG 50595T).
Halomonas almeriensis sp. nov., a moderately halophilic, exopolysaccharide-producing bacterium from Cabo de Gata, Almería, south-east Spain
Authors: Martínez-Checa Fernando , Béjar Victoria , Martínez-Cánovas M. José , Llamas Inmaculada , Quesada Emilia
Published: September 2005

Halomonas almeriensis sp. nov. is a Gram-negative non-motile rod that was isolated from a saltern in the Cabo de Gata-Níjar wildlife reserve in Almería, south-east Spain. It is moderately halophilic, capable of growth at concentrations of 5–25 % w/v sea-salt mixture, the optimum being 7·5 % w/v. It is chemo-organotrophic and strictly aerobic, produces catalase but not oxidase, does not produce acid from any sugar and does not synthesize hydrolytic enzymes. The most notable difference between this micro-organism and other Halomonas species is that it is very fastidious in its use of a carbon source. It forms mucoid colonies due to the production of an exopolysaccharide. Its G+C content is 63·5 mol%. A comparison of 16S rRNA gene sequences confirmed its relationship to Halomonas species. The most closely related species is Halomonas halmophila with 95·8 % similarity between their 16S rRNA gene sequences. DNA–DNA hybridization with H. halmophila is 10·1 %. Its major fatty acids are 18 : 1ω7c, 16 : 0, 16 : 1ω7c/15 : 0 iso 2-OH, 12 : 0 3-OH, 12 : 0, 11-methyl 18 : 1ω7c and 10 : 0. The proposed name is Halomonas almeriensis sp. nov., with strain M8T (=CECT 7050T=LMG 22904T) as the type strain.
Psychrobacter celer sp. nov., isolated from sea water of the South Sea in Korea
Authors: Yoon Jung-Hoon , Lee Choong-Hwan , Kang So-Jung , Oh Tae-Kwang
Published: September 2005

A Gram-negative, non-motile, non-spore-forming, slightly halophilic bacterial strain, SW-238T, was isolated from sea water collected from the South Sea in Korea, and subjected to a polyphasic taxonomic study. The organism grew optimally at 25–30 °C and in the presence of 2–3 % (w/v) NaCl. Strain SW-238Twas characterized chemotaxonomically as containing ubiquinone (Q-8) as the predominant respiratory lipoquinone and C18 : 1ω9cas the major fatty acid. Its DNA G+C content was 47·6 mol%. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain SW-238Tfell within the radiation of the cluster comprisingPsychrobacterspecies. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain SW-238Thad similarity levels of 94·8–97·9 % to sequences of the type strains of recognizedPsychrobacterspecies. Levels of DNA–DNA relatedness between strain SW-238Tand the type strains of 10 phylogenetically relatedPsychrobacterspecies were below 70 %. On the basis of phenotypic and phylogenetic data and genetic distinctiveness, strain SW-238T(=KCTC 12313T=JCM 12601T) was placed in the genusPsychrobacteras the type strain of a novel species, for which the namePsychrobacter celersp. nov. is proposed.
Kordiimonas gwangyangensis gen. nov., sp. nov., a marine bacterium isolated from marine sediments that forms a distinct phyletic lineage (Kordiimonadales ord. nov.) in the ‘Alphaproteobacteria’
Authors: Kwon Kae Kyoung , Lee Hee-Soon , Yang Sung Hyun , Kim Sang-Jin
Published: September 2005

A marine bacterium, designated strain GW14-5T, capable of degrading high-molecular-mass polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons was isolated from the sediments of Gwangyang Bay, Republic of Korea, after enrichment culture for 2 years with a mixture of benzo[a]pyrene and pyrene. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the isolate forms a phyletic lineage that is distinct from the seven known orders within the ‘Alphaproteobacteria’. 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of strain GW14-5Tto all recognized bacterial species was not greater than 92 %. The dominant fatty acids of the isolate were i-17 : 1 (46·2 %), i-15 : 0 (15·1 %) and i-17 : 0 (12·6 %). The major respiratory quinone was MK-5, and the DNA G+C content was 39·3 mol%. Cells of strain GW14-5Twere Gram-negative, motile, catalase-positive, oxidase-positive and weakly halophilic. Glucose,N-acetylglucosamine and maltose were utilized as sole carbon sources. The strain was positive forβ-glucosidase activity. Optimal growth of strain GW14-5Twas at pH 7·0 and 37–40 °C and required the presence of 2 % (w/v) NaCl. On the basis of this evidence, strain GW14-5Trepresents a novel genus and species in the ‘Alphaproteobacteria’ for which the nameKordiimonas gwangyangensisgen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The novel orderKordiimonadalesis proposed for the distinct phyletic line represented by the genusKordiimonas. The type strain is GW14-5T(=KCCM 42021T=JCM 12864T).
Chryseobacterium shigense sp. nov., a yellow-pigmented, aerobic bacterium isolated from a lactic acid beverage
Authors: Shimomura Kengo , Kaji Shigeo , Hiraishi Akira
Published: September 2005

A yellow-pigmented bacterium designated strain GUM-KajiT was isolated from a lactic acid beverage. The strain had Gram-negative, non-motile, rod-shaped cells. It was strictly aerobic and chemo-organotrophic and grew at 5–30 °C and at pH 5–8. The major components of the non-polar and 3-hydroxy fatty acids were C15 : 0 iso and 3-OH-C17 : 0 iso, respectively. Menaquinone MK-6 was detected as the sole quinone. 16S rRNA gene sequence comparisons revealed that strain GUM-KajiT is affiliated to the genus Chryseobacterium, with Chryseobacterium joostei as its phylogenetic neighbour, but there were low levels of similarity (<96 %) to any established species of the genus. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 36·6 mol%. The novel bacterium differed from any known species of Chryseobacterium in terms of a number of phenotypic properties. Thus, the name Chryseobacterium shigense sp. nov. is proposed for this novel bacterium. The type strain is strain GUM-KajiT (=BAMY 1001T=NCIMB 14047T=DSM 17126T).
Aminobacter ciceronei sp. nov. and Aminobacter lissarensis sp. nov., isolated from various terrestrial environments
Authors: McDonald Ian R. , Kämpfer Peter , Topp Ed , Warner Karen L. , Cox Michael J. , Hancock Tracy L. Connell , Miller Laurence G. , Larkin Michael J. , Ducrocq Veronique , Coulter Catherine , Harper David B. , Murrell J. Colin , Oremland Ronald S.
Published: September 2005

The bacterial strains IMB-1T and CC495T, which are capable of growth on methyl chloride (CH3Cl, chloromethane) and methyl bromide (CH3Br, bromomethane), were isolated from agricultural soil in California fumigated with CH3Br, and woodland soil in Northern Ireland, respectively. Two pesticide-/herbicide-degrading bacteria, strains ER2 and C147, were isolated from agricultural soil in Canada. Strain ER2 degrades N-methyl carbamate insecticides, and strain C147 degrades triazine herbicides widely used in agriculture. On the basis of their morphological, physiological and genotypic characteristics, these four strains are considered to represent two novel species of the genus Aminobacter, for which the names Aminobacter ciceronei sp. nov. (type strain IMB-1T=ATCC 202197T=CIP 108660T=CCUG 50580T; strains ER2 and C147) and Aminobacter lissarensis sp. nov. (type strain CC495T=NCIMB 13798T=CIP 108661T=CCUG 50579T) are proposed.
Lentibacillus lacisalsi sp. nov., a moderately halophilic bacterium isolated from a saline lake in China
Authors: Lim Jee-Min , Jeon Che Ok , Song Sung-Min , Lee Jae-Chan , Ju Yoon Jung , Xu Li-Hua , Jiang Cheng-Lin , Kim Chang-Jin
Published: September 2005

An aerobic, spore-forming, moderately halophilic bacterium, strain BH260T, was isolated from a salt lake in China. Cells of this strain were found to be motile rods with flagella. The organism grew optimally at 30–32 °C and pH 8·0 in the presence of 12–15 % (w/v) NaCl. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that the isolate formed a clade with the type strains of the genusLentibacillus. The levels of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity for strain BH260Twith respect toLentibacillus salsusKCTC 3911T,Lentibacillus juripiscariusJCM 12147TandLentibacillus salicampiKCCM 41560Twere 96·0, 95·5 and 95·3 %, respectively. Chemotaxonomic data (a DNA G+C content of 44 mol%; MK-7 as the major isoprenoid quinone; A1γ-meso-diaminopimelic acid as the cell-wall type; phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol as the major polar lipids; anteiso-C15 : 0, anteiso-C17 : 0and iso-C16 : 0as the major fatty acids) also supported assignment of the isolate to the genusLentibacillus. On the basis of physiological and molecular properties, the isolate represents a novel species within the genusLentibacillus, for which the nameLentibacillus lacisalsisp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is BH260T(=KCTC 3915T=DSM 16462T).
Halobiforma lacisalsi sp. nov., isolated from a salt lake in China
Authors: Xu Xue-Wei , Wu Min , Zhou Pei-Jin , Liu Shuang-Jiang
Published: September 2005

A Gram-negative, motile, neutrophilic and extremely halophilic strain, AJ5T, was isolated from a salt lake in Xinjiang, China, and subjected to polyphasic taxonomic study. The major polar lipids of the isolate were C20C20and C20C25derivatives of phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol phosphate methyl ester and glycolipid. The DNA G+C content was 64·9 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain AJ5Tclustered with members of the genusHalobiforma, exhibiting high sequence similarity to the 16S rRNA gene sequences ofHalobiforma nitratireducens(96·3 %) andHalobiforma haloterrestris(99·0 %). Comparative analysis of phenotypic characteristics and DNA–DNA hybridization between strain AJ5TandHalobiformaspecies supported the conclusion that AJ5Trepresents a novel species within this genus, for which the nameHalobiforma lacisalsisp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is AJ5T(=CGMCC 1.3738T=JCM 12983T).
Maribacter dokdonensis sp. nov., isolated from sea water off a Korean island, Dokdo
Authors: Yoon Jung-Hoon , Kang So-Jung , Lee Soo-Young , Lee Choong-Hwan , Oh Tae-Kwang
Published: September 2005

Two Gram-negative, non-spore-forming, slightly halophilic gliding bacterial strains, DSW-8T and DSW-9, were isolated from sea water off a Korean island, Dokdo, of the East Sea, Korea, and their taxonomic position was investigated by a polyphasic study. The two strains grew optimally at 30 °C and in the presence of 2–3 % (w/v) NaCl. Strains DSW-8T and DSW-9 were characterized chemotaxonomically as containing MK-6 as the predominant menaquinone and iso-C17 : 0 3-OH, iso-C15 : 0 and iso-C15 : 1 as the major fatty acids. Major polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, two unidentified phospholipids, an unidentified glycolipid and an amino group-containing lipid that was ninhydrin-positive. Their DNA G+C contents were 36·1 and 35·9 mol%. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strains DSW-8T and DSW-9 fell within the genus Maribacter of the family Flavobacteriaceae. Strains DSW-8T and DSW-9 exhibited no difference in their 16S rRNA gene sequences and possessed a mean DNA–DNA relatedness level of 89 %. Strains DSW-8T and DSW-9 exhibited 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity levels of 96·9–98·0 % to the type strains of the four recognized Maribacter species, but their low level of DNA–DNA relatedness with these species demonstrated that they constitute a distinct Maribacter species. On the basis of phenotypic and phylogenetic data and genetic distinctiveness, strains DSW-8T (=KCTC 12393T=DSM 17201T) and DSW-9 were classified in the genus Maribacter as members of a novel species, for which the name Maribacter dokdonensis sp. nov. is proposed.
Desulfotomaculum carboxydivorans sp. nov., a novel sulfate-reducing bacterium capable of growth at 100 % CO
Authors: Parshina Sofiya N. , Sipma Jan , Nakashimada Yutaka , Henstra Anne Meint , Smidt Hauke , Lysenko Anatoly M. , Lens Piet N. L. , Lettinga Gatze , Stams Alfons J. M.
Published: September 2005

A moderately thermophilic, anaerobic, chemolithoheterotrophic, sulfate-reducing bacterium, strain CO-1-SRBT, was isolated from sludge from an anaerobic bioreactor treating paper mill wastewater. Cells were Gram-positive, motile, spore-forming rods. The temperature range for growth was 30–68 °C, with an optimum at 55 °C. The NaCl concentration range for growth was 0–17 g l−1; there was no change in growth rate until the NaCl concentration reached 8 g l−1. The pH range for growth was 6·0–8·0, with an optimum of 6·8–7·2. The bacterium could grow with 100 % CO in the gas phase. With sulfate, CO was converted to H2and CO2and part of the H2was used for sulfate reduction; without sulfate, CO was completely converted to H2and CO2. With sulfate, strain CO-1-SRBTutilized H2/CO2, pyruvate, glucose, fructose, maltose, lactate, serine, alanine, ethanol and glycerol. The strain fermented pyruvate, lactate, glucose and fructose. Yeast extract was necessary for growth. Sulfate, thiosulfate and sulfite were used as electron acceptors, whereas elemental sulfur and nitrate were not. A phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences placed strain CO-1-SRBTin the genusDesulfotomaculum, closely resemblingDesulfotomaculum nigrificansDSM 574TandDesulfotomaculumsp. RHT-3 (99 and 100 % similarity, respectively). However, the latter strains were completely inhibited above 20 and 50 % CO in the gas phase, respectively, and were unable to ferment CO, lactate or glucose in the absence of sulfate. DNA–DNA hybridization of strain CO-1-SRBTwithD. nigrificansandDesulfotomaculumsp. RHT-3 showed 53 and 60 % relatedness, respectively. On the basis of phylogenetic and physiological features, it is suggested that strain CO-1-SRBTrepresents a novel species within the genusDesulfotomaculum, for which the nameDesulfotomaculum carboxydivoransis proposed. This is the first description of a sulfate-reducing micro-organism that is capable of growth under an atmosphere of pure CO with and without sulfate. The type strain is CO-1-SRBT(=DSM 14880T=VKM B-2319T).
The bromodomain protein GTE6 controls leaf development in Arabidopsis by histone acetylation at ASYMMETRIC LEAVES1
Authors: Chua Yii Leng , Channelière Stéphanie , Mott Ellie , Gray John C.
Published: September 2005

The transition from the juvenile to the mature phase during vegetative development in plants is characterized by changes in leaf shape. We show that GENERAL TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR GROUP E6 (GTE6) regulates differences in leaf patterning between juvenile and mature leaves in Arabidopsis. GTE6 encodes a novel small bromodomain-containing protein unique to plants. Mutations in GTE6 disrupt the formation of elliptical leaf laminae in mature leaves, whereas overexpression of GTE6 resulted in elongated juvenile leaves. GTE6 positively regulates the expression of ASYMMETRIC LEAVES1 (AS1), which encodes a myb-domain protein that controls proximodistal patterning of leaves. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays, we show that GTE6 is associated with the promoter and the start of the transcribed region of AS1 and up-regulates expression of AS1 through acetylation of histones H3 and H4. Genetic studies demonstrated that AS1 is epistatic to GTE6, indicating that GTE6 regulates AS1 during leaf morphogenesis. Chromatin remodeling at AS1 is a key regulatory mechanism in leaf development, which ensures the continual production of mature leaves following juvenile-adult transition, thereby maintaining the identity of the mature vegetative phase.
Incidence of postcesarean infections in relation to HIV status in a setting with limited resources
Authors: Björklund Kenneth , Mutyaba Twaha , Nabunya Evelyn , Mirembe Florence
Published: September 2005

Background.  The aim of the present study was to assess the incidence of postcesarean infections in relation to HIV status in a setting where resources are limited, HIV infection is common, and antiretroviral treatment is not generally available.

Methods.  The setting was a tertiary African obstetric unit with 27 000 deliveries annually. The study design was prospective and the sample consisted of 1600 of cesarean sections. All women requiring cesarean section were eligible for inclusion. HIV status was registered from the antenatal card only. For the analysis, the participants were divided into two categories: those with negative or unknown HIV status and those with positive HIV status. The main outcome measures are endometritis, wound infection, and mobilization parameters.

Results.  A total of 1526 cases, of which 1492 were emergency cesarean sections, were included in the analysis. HIV status was negative or unknown in 1430 cases and positive in 96. In the HIV‐negative/unknown group, the incidence of endometritis was 8.5% (121/1430), wound infection 5.0% (71/1430), and endometritis and/or wound infection 10.8% (154/1430). In the HIV‐positive group, the corresponding incidences were 51.0% (49/96), 29.2% (28/96), and 65.5% (63/96), respectively. The indication for cesarean section was dystocia in 79% (134/170) of the women who developed endometritis.

Conclusions.  The results indicate that women with untreated HIV infection are at very high risk of postcesarean infection in low‐resourced settings.
Recombinant adenovirus‐p21 attenuates proliferative responses associated with excessive scarring
Authors: Gu Danling , Atencio Isabella , Kang David W. , Looper L. David , Ahmed C. M. I. , Levy Alina , Maneval Dan , Zepeda Monica L.
Published: September 2005

Excessive cutaneous scarring is an important clinical disorder resulting in adverse tissue growth and function as well as undesirable cosmetic appearance. p21WAF−1/Cip−1 is a cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor that blocks cell cycle progression and inhibits cell proliferation. We used a recombinant adenovirus containing the human p21WAF−1/Cip−1 cDNA (rAd‐p21) to evaluate proliferative responses in skin models. In vitro dose–response studies using primary human dermal fibroblasts resulted in a dose‐dependent expression of p21WAF−1/Cip−1 protein and a 3‐ to 80‐fold reduction in cell proliferation as measured by 5‐bromodeoxyuridine incorporation. Further, rAd‐p21 reduced type I procollagen production when compared to control virus. A rat polyvinyl alcohol sponge model was used to determine rAd‐p21 effects on granulation tissue formation in vivo. Sponges pretreated with a granulation tissue stimulator, rAd‐PDGF‐B and subsequently rAd‐p21 on a second injection, showed a p21WAF−1/Cip−1 specific dose‐dependent decrease in percent granulation fill as the rAd‐p21 dose increased (p < 0.001). Immunohistochemistry identified human p21WAF−1/Cip−1 expression in sponges treated with rAd‐p21 5 days postinjection. Additionally, 5‐bromodeoxyuridine and Ki67 staining in sponges treated with rAd‐p21 showed a significant decrease in proliferation when compared to rAd‐platelet‐derived growth factor‐B alone or vehicle control groups (p < 0.01). These data support the utility of p21WAF−1/Cip−1 in targeting hyperproliferative disorders of the skin.
Topical vascular endothelial growth factor reverses delayed wound healing secondary to angiogenesis inhibitor administration
Authors: Michaels Joseph , Dobryansky Michael , Galiano Robert D. , Bhatt Kirit A. , Ashinoff Russell , Ceradini Daniel J. , Gurtner Geoffrey C.
Published: September 2005

The prevention of new blood vessel growth is an increasingly attractive strategy to limit tumor growth. However, it remains unclear whether anti‐angiogenesis approaches will impair wound healing, a process thought to be angiogenesis dependent. Results of previous studies differ as to whether angiogenesis inhibitors delay wound healing. We evaluated whether endostatin at tumor‐inhibiting doses delayed excisional wound closure. C57/BL6J mice were treated with endostatin or phosphate‐buffered solution 3 days prior to the creation of two full‐thickness wounds on the dorsum. Endostatin was administered daily until wound closure was complete. A third group received endostatin, but also had daily topical vascular endothelial growth factor applied locally to the wound. Wound area was measured daily and the wounds were analyzed for granulation tissue formation, epithelial gap, and wound vascularity. Endostatin‐treated mice showed a significant delay in wound healing. Granulation tissue formation and wound vascularity were significantly decreased, but reepithelialization was not effected. Topical vascular endothelial growth factor application to wounds in endostatin‐treated mice resulted in increased granulation tissue formation, increased wound vascularity, and wound closure approaching that of control mice. This study shows that the angiogenesis inhibitor endostatin delays wound healing and that topical vascular endothelial growth factor is effective in counteracting this effect.
Hydrogen peroxide disrupts scarless fetal wound repair
Authors: Wilgus Traci A. , Bergdall Valerie K. , Dipietro Luisa A. , Oberyszyn Tatiana M.
Published: September 2005

Cutaneous wound healing is a complex process that leads to the formation of a permanent scar in adult skin. In contrast, early gestation fetal skin undergoes scarless repair. Normally, the repair process in the skin begins with an acute inflammatory response. However, one of the most important aspects of scarless fetal wound repair appears to be a lack of inflammation, suggesting that inflammation promotes scar formation in the skin. While it is well accepted that inflammation causes scar formation in the fetus, it is not known what specific factors produced during inflammation are responsible for these effects. Oxidants released by activated inflammatory cells have the potential to be involved, although this has never been examined. The present studies, using a murine fetal wound repair model, show that hydrogen peroxide interferes with scarless healing, possibly through the induction of transforming growth factor‐β1. Hydrogen peroxide also increased the proliferation of fetal fibroblasts, which could contribute to an increase in the fibrosis seen with hydrogen peroxide. Defining the factors produced during the inflammatory response that contribute to scar formation could be important for the development of new therapies designed to minimize scarring.
Endothelial protease‐activated receptor‐2 induces tissue factor expression and von Willebrand factor release
Authors: Langer Florian , Morys‐Wortmann Corinna , Küsters Benno , Storck Josef
Published: September 2005

A second protease‐activated receptor (PAR‐2) that could be activated by trypsin or more physiologically by mast cell tryptase has been recently cloned. Both the structure and activation mechanism of PAR‐2 was similar to the functional thrombin receptor (PAR‐1). Although many effects of the coagulation protease thrombin on the vascular endothelium could be attributed to PAR‐1 activation, very little is known about the physiological and pathophysiological role of PAR‐2. We investigated whether stimulation of PAR‐2 on endothelial cells induced two cellular responses that play a central role in primary and secondary haemostasis: the release of high molecular weight von Willebrand factor (hmw‐VWF) from Weibel‐Palade bodies and the de novo synthesis of tissue factor (TF) mRNA and protein. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were incubated with agonists for PAR‐2 at 37°C. Both trypsin and SLIGKV increased TF mRNA and activity and induced the release of hmw‐VWF due to elevated levels of cytosolic Ca2+. Trypsin (10 nm) induced a 6‐fold increase of TF mRNA and reduced time until fibrin clot formation to 37%, indicating trebling of the cell surface located TF activity. Stimulation of HUVEC with the PAR‐2 agonist peptide SLIGKV induced a dose‐dependent increase of TF mRNA up to 6 times and TF activity up to 3 times. Release of hmw‐VWF was achieved both after incubation of HUVEC with trypsin and SLIGKV and was directly depending on intracellular Ca2+ mobilization. To make results comparable to the functional thrombin receptor, homologous experiments were carried out using the PAR‐1 agonists thrombin and SFLLRN.
Herpes virus infections occur frequently following treatment with fludarabine: results of a prospective natural history study
Authors: Byrd John C. , McGrail Lisa H. , Hospenthal Duane R. , Howard Robin S. , Dow Nancy A. , Diehl Louis F.
Published: September 2005

We performed a prospective infectious natural history study of 21 patients with low‐grade lymphoproliferative disorders receiving fludarabine as initial (n = 5) or salvage (n = 16) therapy. 12 (57%) of these patients developed herpes zoster (n = 9), herpes simplex I (n = 1) or herpes simplex II (n = 2) infections at a median of 8 (range 1–17) months following initiation of fludarabine, with 75% of these having completed therapy. All patients with herpes zoster developed severe post‐herpetic neuralgia. Factors differentiating patients developing these infections included older age and low serum IgG or IgA. Based upon these prospective data, we conclude that herpes virus infections frequently occur following fludarabine treatment, necessitating aggressive patient education and new prophylactic strategies.
The sensory and microbiological quality of fresh sliced mushroom (Agaricus bisporus L.) packaged in modified atmospheres
Authors: Simón Ana , González‐Fandos Elena , Tobar Vanesa
Published: September 2005

The effect of modified atmospheres, generated by using different packaging films, on the quality of sliced mushrooms was evaluated. The carbon dioxide and oxygen content inside the packages as well as the colour, texture, weight loss, sensory attributes, mesophiles, psychrotrophs, Pseudomonas fluorescens, faecal coliforms, Escherichia coli and anaerobic spores were determined. Modified atmospheres containing 2.5% CO2 and 10–20% O2 reduced the microbial counts and improved the mushrooms’ appearance when compared with an air atmosphere. Modified atmospheres containing 15% CO2 and <0.1% O2 inhibited mushroom development and toughening and reduced microbial growth. Although these atmospheres had no effect on colour, they did allow the development of off odours and anaerobic spores were detected. No differences in microbial growth or mushroom spoilage were observed under the different moisture contents generated in the packages at 4 °C. Aerobic bacteria counts were considered very high even at the beginning.
Survival of tree seedlings across space and time: estimates from long‐term count data
Authors: BECKAGE BRIAN , LAVINE MICHAEL , CLARK JAMES S.
Published: September 2005

Tree diversity in forests may be maintained by variability in seedling recruitment. Although forest ecologists have emphasized the importance of canopy gaps in generating spatial variability that might promote tree regeneration, the effects of canopy gaps on seedling recruitment may be offset by dense forest understories.

Large annual fluctuations in recruitment processes, coupled with the long life of forest trees, can provide an alternative mechanism for maintaining tree diversity. Evaluating the relative importance of spatial vs. temporal variability in recruitment, however, requires estimates of seedling survival that are extensive on both scales.

Estimates of survival derived from conventional statistical methods require that individual seedlings are monitored through time, and are therefore often limited in extent. We demonstrate a relatively fast and easy alternative approach to measuring survival that uses repeated counts of individuals in quadrats.

Annual seedling counts were used to quantify both the effects of small canopy gaps and understorey shrubs on the survival ofAcer rubrum(red maple) seedlings and the magnitude of residual spatial and temporal variability in seedling survival.

We found that a dense understorey had a greater effect on seedling survival than did canopy gaps. Our canopy gaps had only a slight positive effect on seedling survival, and their benefit was offset by a large negative effect of the understorey shrubRhododendron maximum.

Annual fluctuations in recruitment processes were seven times greater than spatial variability across transects and the effect of individual years on seedling survival was larger than even that of understorey shrubs.

The long life span of trees coupled with large annual variability in recruitment success across species may maintain the diversity of forest trees through a storage effect.
The dynamics between structure and flexibility in constant observation of psychiatric inpatients with suicidal ideation
Authors: VRÅLE G. B. , STEEN E.
Published: September 2005

The aim of the study is to describe how expert nurses perform constant observation of patients with suicidal ideation. A qualitative content analysis is used to analyse individual and focus group interviews of five nurses. One main finding is identified: organizing phases and transitional phases formed during constant observation and the creation of a therapeutic relation. The findings are explained and discussed. In summary, the findings show that constant observation of inpatients with suicidal ideation seems to consist of two main aspects. One refers to its phases and consists primarily of assessing the need for control and controlling the patient from self‐harm. The other aspect refers to the relationship between the nurse and the patient during a period of constant observation. There is a dynamic relation between structure and flexibility, and between control and the development of a therapeutic relationship between the patient and the nurse. The therapeutic relation is important when staff assess the need to continue round‐the‐clock observation.
Relocation into a new building and its effect on uncertainty and anxiety among psychiatric patients
Authors: KAGAN I. , KIGLI‐SHEMESH R.
Published: September 2005

The study was designed to investigate the relationship between uncertainty and state anxiety among psychiatric patients before the closed wards of a psychiatric hospital were relocated to new premises. Patients from four psychiatric departments completed a structured questionnaire a week before, and six weeks after, relocation. Inter‐variable relationships were assessed by Pearson correlation coefficients. The participants demonstrated moderate levels of pre‐relocation uncertainty and anxiety. A significant correlation was found between anxiety and uncertainty both before and after the relocation. Anxiety after the relocation was significantly lower. There was statistical association between uncertainty and state anxiety. This study highlights the need to prepare patients and provide interventions relieving anxiety and lowering uncertainty before environmentally stressful events, such as relocation to a new building.
Discordant responses to progestin in a patient with uterine low‐grade smooth‐muscle tumors metastatic to the lung
Authors: Lo Chung‐Ai , Huang Soon‐Cen , Ho Chung‐Liang , Tzeng Ching‐Cherng , Chou Cheng‐Yang , Hsu Keng‐Fu
Published: September 2005

A 58‐year‐old woman presented with pelvic, para‐aortic masses and two isolated nodules in the right lung 6 years after hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy for uterine leiomyoma. Laparotomy was carried out and all the intra‐abdominal tumors were excised; pathology showed metastatic low‐grade leiomyosarcomas. Immunohistochemical staining revealed a high expression level of estrogen and progesterone receptors in these tumors. The pulmonary nodules were left and the patient was given oral medroxyprogesterone acetate 200 mg daily after the operation. One of the pulmonary masses regressed progressively and had disappeared 7 months later on chest X‐ray examination. However, the other was persistent. She then received wedge resection to excise the pulmonary nodule, which showed the same histologic pattern as the abdomen masses. However, the immunohistochemical staining on this nodule showed positive estrogen receptor expression but was negative for progesterone receptor expression. After the operation, she maintained progestin treatment and was tumor free for the following 12 months.
Case of mature cystic teratoma of the greater omentum misdiagnosed as ovarian cyst
Authors: Yoshida Atsushi , Murabayashi Nao , Shiozaki Takaya , Okugawa Toshiharu , Tabata Tsutomu
Published: September 2005

The teratoma of the greater omentum is a very rare entity. We present a case of mature cystic teratoma of the greater omentum misdiagnosed as ovarian cyst. The patient was a 36‐year‐old woman with an omental teratoma of 5 × 4 × 4 cm and an atrophic left ovary. The histopathologic diagnosis was mature cystic teratoma of the greater omentum and no evidence of immaturity or malignancy was noted. Preoperative tumor marker tests revealed moderate elevation of cancer antigen (CA)125, CA19‐9 and carcinoembryonic antigen. The left ovary of the patient was atrophic and possible autoamputation of the ovarian tissue might be suggested.
Are vaginal fluid procalcitonin levels useful for the prediction of subclinial infection in patients with preterm premature rupture of membranes?
Authors: Torbé Andrzej , Czajka Ryszard
Published: September 2005

Aim: To compare vaginal fluid procalcitonin concentrations in cases of preterm premature rupture of membranes (pPROM) and premature rupture of membranes (PROM) at term, and to determine whether the procalcitonin concentrations are of value in the diagnosis of pPROM cases suspected of subclinical intrauterine infection or in the prediction of the pPROM‐to‐delivery interval.

Methods: Forty‐eight patients with pPROM and 30 with PROM at term were enrolled in this study. In pPROM group, analysis was conducted of procalcitonin concentrations with reference to serum leucocytosis, serum C‐reactive protein levels and vaginal fluid culture, as well as to the presence/absence of neonatal congenital infection or histological chorioamnionitis. The outcomes of pPROM cases were also recorded with reference to pPROM‐to‐delivery interval.

Results: Procalcitonin levels in the pPROM group were significantly higher than in cases of amniorrhexis at term (1.50 vs 0.83 ng/mL; P < 0.001). In the pPROM group procalcitonin concentrations between the patients with and without positive laboratory indices of infection were comparable. Also, no significant correlation was observed between procalcitonin and leucocytosis (r = −0.14; P = 0.33) or C‐reactive protein (r = −0.17; P = 0.24). Procalcitonin concentrations of patients who gave birth to newborns with infection were comparable to those in women whose newborns were healthy. In patients with histological chorioamnionitis, procalcitonin concentrations were comparable to those without inflammatory changes.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that the value of vaginal fluid procalcitonin determinations is unsatisfactory in the diagnostics of pPROM cases suspected of subclinical intrauterine infection, as well as for the prediction of pPROM‐to‐delivery interval, newborn's congenital infection or histological chorioamnionitis.
Resistance to cisatracurium in a patient with MELAS syndrome
Authors: AOUAD MARIE T. , GERGES FREDERIC J. , BARAKA ANIS S.
Published: September 2005

There are conflicting reports on the response of mitochondrial myopathy patients to the neuromuscular blocking drugs, showing either normal response or marked sensitivity. We present a patient with MELAS syndrome who underwent Nissen fundoplication and gastrojejunostomy. Marked resistance to the nondepolarizing muscle relaxant, cisatracurium was observed. The anesthesia management, as well as the various causes of resistance to cisatracurium in this patient are discussed.
Bronchial compression due to stent placement in pulmonary artery in a child with congenital heart disease
Authors: NÚÑEZ MÓNICA , BELEÑA JOSÉ , CABEZA RAÚL , BELTRÁN MARÍA
Published: September 2005

Congenital heart disease, such as transposition of the great vessels (TGV), requires surgical procedures which can lead to important complications. We report on a case of bronchial obstruction following placement of a pulmonary artery stent in a 4‐year‐old boy who had undergone a Rastelli procedure to correct TGV, ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis. There are many complications that can arise as a consequence of intravascular stents in heart surgery, as well as many causes of bronchial compression. However we have not found any report which describes bronchial compression as a direct consequence of endovascular stent.
Interspecific Variation in Susceptibility of Frog Tadpoles to the Pathogenic Fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
Authors: BLAUSTEIN ANDREW R. , ROMANSIC JOHN M. , SCHEESSELE ERIN A. , HAN BARBARA A. , PESSIER ALLAN P. , LONGCORE JOYCE E.
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  As part of an overall biodiversity crisis many amphibian populations are in decline throughout the world. Numerous causes have been invoked to explain these declines. These include habitat destruction, climate change, increasing levels of ultraviolet radiation, environmental contamination, and the introduction of non‐native species and diseases. Several types of pathogens have been implicated in contributing to amphibian population declines: viruses, bacteria, oomycetes, and fungi. One particular fungus, the chytridiomycete Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis may have caused amphibian population declines in several regions. This pathogen causes chytridiomycosis, which is fatal to newly metamorphic and adult amphibians of certain species. We present experimental evidence that larval stages may also be susceptible to exposure to Batrachochytrium. There was, however, differential sensitivity to B. dendrobatidis in larvae we examined. In laboratory experiments, larval western toads ( Bufo boreas) exposed to B. dendrobatidis experienced increased mortality and behaviors that suggested they were affected by exposure compared with unexposed control tadpoles. Larvae of Cascades frogs ( Rana cascadae), bullfrogs (R. catesbeiana), and Pacific treefrogs (Hyla regilla) did not die after exposure to Batrachochytrium and appeared to behave normally. R. cascadae larvae exposed to B. dendrobatidis, however, showed an increase incidence in mouthpart abnormalities, a characteristic effect of chytridiomycosis, compared with unexposed controls. These results show that Batrachochytrium can negatively affect some species of amphibians at the larval stage and not others. The implications of interspecific variation in susceptibility to fungal infection are broad.
Hormones, Menstrual Distress, and Migraine Across the Phases of the Menstrual Cycle
Authors: Kibler Jeffrey L. , Rhudy Jamie L. , Penzien Donald B. , Rains Jeanetta C. , Meeks G. Rodney , Bennett William , Dollar Katherine M.
Published: September 2005

Objective.—The primary objectives of the present study were to (1) contrast reproductive hormone levels and ratings of menstrual distress of female migraineurs with those of a control group in each menstrual cycle phase, (2) examine correlations between hormone levels and migraine frequency, severity, and migraine‐related disability, and (3) examine correlations between menstrual distress and migraine frequency, severity, and migraine‐related disability. A secondary objective was to evaluate the validity of a migraine disability measure modified to reflect 7‐day recall.

Background.—Further controlled, prospective study is needed regarding the temporal relationships between reproductive hormones at each stage of the menstrual cycle and fluctuations in migraine activity across the cycle.

Methods.—Twenty‐three women (17 with migraine, 6 control participants) completed laboratory hormone assays and measures of menstrual distress and disability at each phase of one menstrual cycle, and monitored their headache activity daily during the same cycle.

Results.—The migraine group evidenced lower premenstrual luteinizing hormone and more menstrual distress symptoms at each phase of the menstrual cycle. Hormones were associated with migraine activity and disability within cycle phases, and across phases in a time‐lagged manner. Menstrual distress was associated with ovulatory phase migraine activity and with migraine‐related disability across the menstrual cycle. A retrospective 7‐day migraine disability measure appeared to be a consistently valid index.

Conclusions.—Both reproductive hormones and menstrually related distress appear to predict migraine activity and disability. These associations were evident not only for perimenstrual migraine, but also for migraine at each phase of the menstrual cycle.
Increased Plasma Transforming Growth Factor‐β1 in Migraine
Authors: Ishizaki Kumiko , Takeshima Takao , Fukuhara Yoko , Araki Haruko , Nakaso Kazuhiro , Kusumi Masayoshi , Nakashima Kenji
Published: September 2005

Background and Objectives.—Migraine is characterized by the peripheral and central sensitization of pain perceptive neural systems, and neurogenic inflammation is a key step in the development of migraine headache. We focused on transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1), which is a multifunctional proinflammatory cytokine. To address the possibility of TGF‐β1 involvement in migraine, we investigated the plasma level of TGF‐β1 in patients with migraine headache during headache‐free periods.

Subjects and Methods.—Sixty‐eight subjects with migraine participated: 23 with migraine with aura (MWA) and 45 without aura (MWoA). We recruited 58 healthy subjects without headache as controls. In addition, we examined 12 subjects with episodic tension‐type headache. Platelet poor plasma (PPP) was obtained from subjects during headache free‐periods. TGF‐β1 levels in PPP were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results.—The TGF‐β1 level in PPP was 2.62*± 0.23 (mean ± SE) ng/mL in migraine, 2.08 ± 0.20 ng/mL in tension‐type headache, and 1.80 ± 0.09 ng/mL in controls (P= .007, ANOVA; *P < .01, post hoc tests vs. the controls).

Conclusion.—TGF‐β1 in PPP was significantly increased in patients with migraine during headache‐free periods. TGF‐β1 may play some role in the development of migraine headache.
Serotonergic Activity Contributes to Analgesic Overuse in Chronic Tension‐Type Headache
Authors: Park Jeong Wook , Kim Joong Seok , Kim Young In , Lee Kwang Soo
Published: September 2005

Objective.—To evaluate the possible existence of a genetically determined innate factor that could exert a profound influence on the development of analgesic overuse in chronic tension‐type headache (CTTH).

Background.—Many patients with CTTHs report the regular use of analgesics. Continuous use of analgesics results in the ultimate worsening of headaches. The factors related to development of analgesic overuse, however, remain poorly understood. The genetic factors for serotonin metabolism and the harm avoidance (HA) personality dimension are known to be associated with various substance abuse patterns.

Design.—We performed serotonin transporter protein (5‐HTT) gene‐linked polymorphic region (5‐HTTLPR) genotype polymorphism analyses, and investigated serotonin‐related personality traits by assessing the HA dimension using tridimensional personality questionnaire, given to 48 patients with CTTHs and reported analgesic overuse (CTTH‐AO), in 50 patients with CTTHs without analgesic overuse (CTTH‐NO), and in 100 healthy controls. We compared their headache characteristics using standardized questionnaires.

Results.—We discovered an excess frequency of 5‐HTTLPR short allele and a different genotypic distribution in patients with CTTH‐AO. The S/S genotype frequency was significantly higher in patients with CTTH‐AO (83%) than in CTTH‐NO (72%) and control (59%; P= .010) groups. Patients with CTTH‐AO exhibited the highest HA scores (23.3 ± 5.4), as compared to CTTH‐NO (19.9 ± 6.7) and control (16.3 ± 6.1) groups. Individuals with the S/S genotype showed a greater tendency toward analgesic overuse (13.3 ± 11.3 days per month) than did those with the non‐S/S genotype (7.0 ± 8.6 days per month: P= .02).

Conclusions.—Our data suggest that serotonergic activity may be involved in the development of analgesic overuse in CTTH and that 5‐HTTLPR might be one of the genetically contributing factors.
Effect of a Mandatory Geriatric Medicine Clerkship on Third‐Year Students
Authors: Struck Bryan D. , Bernard Marie A. , Teasdale Thomas A. ,   for the Oklahoma University Geriatric Education Group
Published: September 2005

A nationwide push has increased geriatric medicine instruction within medical school curricula. Some institutions have proceeded with an integrated 4‐year curriculum while others have constructed discrete courses in the third or fourth year of medical school. This paper describes the impact of a new mandatory 4‐week geriatric medicine clerkship on third‐year students developed by the Donald W. Reynolds Department of Geriatric Medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. In the first year of implementation, 135 students took the course on both the Oklahoma City and Tulsa campuses. Clinical sites included inpatient, VA extended care unit, outpatient clinics, dementia clinics, home care, long‐term care settings, and hospice. Didactic instruction used formal lectures and problem‐based learning. The impact of the clerkship on students was assessed in three areas: knowledge, skills, and attitude using a pre‐ and postknowledge test, student satisfaction survey, and written comments. This article discusses how the clerkship resulted in increased knowledge of geriatric medicine. Student self‐report indicates that the clerkship enhanced clinical evaluation and patient assessment skills. Students indicated that the experience was positive and recognized the importance of geriatric medicine in their development as doctors.