bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An isochorismate hydroxymutase isogene in Escherichia coli
Authors: Müller Rolf , Dahm Claudia , Schulte Gaby , Leistner Eckhard
Published: May 2003

The pivotal step in enterobactin and menaquinone biosynthesis is the conversion of chorismate to isochorismate. Circumstantial evidence pointed to Escherichia coli isochorismate hydroxymutase isogenes being responsible for this conversion. While the gene involved in enterobactin synthesis (entC) was known, the corresponding gene for menaquinone biosynthesis (menF) was not but has now been identified and sequenced. The amino acid sequence of MenF is 23.5% identical and 57.8% similar to that of EntC.
Demonstration of Borna disease virus RNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells derived from Japanese patients with chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Nakaya Takaaki , Takahashi Hirokazu , Nakamura Yurie , Asahi Sayumi , Tobiume Minoru , Kuratsune Hirohiko , Kitani Teruo , Yamanishi Koichi , Ikuta Kazuyoshi
Published: May 2003

CFS, a recently named heterogeneous disorder, is an illness of unknown etiology. The association of CFS with viral infections has been suggested. A common association between CFS and several viruses examined has not been confirmed. Here, we centered on the possible link between CFS and BDV infection. By nested RT‐PCR followed by hybridization, BDV RNA was demonstrated as a clear signal in PBMCs in 3 out of 25 CFS patients. The amplified cDNA fragments were cloned and sequenced. A total of 16 clones were studied. Intra‐patients divergencies of the p24 were 2–9%, 3–20%, and 3–11% in the deduced amino acids. Inter‐patient divergencies among the 16 clones were 3–24%. Antibodies to recombinant BDV p24 protein were detected in 6 CFS patients including one carrying BDV RNA. Overall, these gave the prevalence of 32% (8/25) in Japanese CFS patients, suggesting that Japanese CFS is highly associated with active infection of BDV, or a related agent.
Evolutionary relationship of hepatitis C, pesti‐, flavi‐, plantviruses, and newly discovered GB hepatitis agents
Authors: Ohba Ken-ichi , Mizokami Masashi , Lau Johnson Y.N. , Orito Etsuro , Ikeo Kazuho , Gojobori Takashi
Published: May 2003

Two flavivirus‐like viruses, GB virus‐A (GBV‐A) and GB virus‐B (GBV‐B), were recently identified in the GB hepatitis agent, and are distinct from the hepatitis A to E viruses. The putative helicase domain of GBV‐A and GBV‐B was found to have amino acid sequence homology with hepatitis C virus (HCV), and distantly, is also related to pestiviruses, flaviviruses, and plant viruses. A phylogenetic tree construction showed that GBVs and HCV are closely related, and they are clustered with pestiviruses, flaviviruses and plant viruses in that order.
Immunochemical detection of ADP‐ribosylating enzymes in the archaeon Sulfolobus solfataricus
Authors: Rosaria Faraone-Mennella M. , Gambacorta Agata , Nicolaus Barbara , Farina Benedetta
Published: May 2003

Polyclonal antibodies raised against eukaryotic mono(ADPribose)transferase and poly(ADPribose)polymerase were used to test the presence of antigenic determinants in a crude extract of Sulfolobus solfataricus, a thermophilic archaeon. Samples from eukaryotic (bull testis) and bacterial (E. coli) sources were analysed for comparison. All tested antibodies reacted with the sulfolobal sample with a specificity comparable to that of the eukaryotic preparation, as revealed by ELISA test, activity assays in the presence of antibodies and immunoblot experiments. After electrophoresis and western blot of sulfolobal proteins, a band at a mass around 50 kDa was detected by immunostaining.
Pentacoordination of the heme iron of Arthromyces ramosus peroxidase shown by a 1.8 Å resolution crystallographic study at pH 4.5
Authors: Kunishima Naoki , Amada Fumiko , Fukuyama Keiichi , Kawamoto Masahide , Matsunaga Takateru , Matsubara Hiroshi
Published: May 2003

In the presence of ammonium sulfate the absorption spectra of a peroxidase from the fungus Arthromyces ramosus (ARP) showed that the low‐spin component increased as the pH increased from 6.0 to 9.0, whereas in its absence ARP remained in the high‐spin state in the pH range investigated. The crystal structure of ARP at pH 4.5 in the presence of ammonium sulfate at 1.8 Å resolution showed that the electron density at the 6th position of the heme iron seen at pH 7.5 had disappeared and that the iron atom deviated markedly from the heme plane. These observations strongly suggest that under physiological conditions the heme of ARP is in the pentacoordinated high‐spin state and that at a high pH the heme iron is able to bind ammonia, forming the low‐spin state. The location of the water molecule at the distal side of the heme in peroxidases is also discussed.
Processing of pro‐islet amyloid polypeptide (proIAPP) by the prohormone convertase PC2
Authors: Badman Michael K. , Shennan Kathleen I.J. , Jermany Joanne L. , Docherty Kevin , Clark Anne
Published: May 2003

Islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP), ‘amylin’, is the component peptide of islet amyloid formed in Type 2 diabetes. IAPP is expressed in islet β‐cells and is derived from a larger precursor, proIAPP, by proteolysis. An in vitro translation/translocation system was used to separately examine processing of human proIAPP by the β‐cell endopeptidases PC2, PC3 or furin. ProIAPP was converted to mature IAPP by PC2 but there was little conversion by furin or PC3. These data are consistent with processing of proIAPP in β‐cell secretory granules. Abnormal cellular proteolysis associated with type 2 diabetes could contribute to IAPP amyloidosis.
Purification and characterization of the acetate forming enzyme, acetyl‐CoA synthetase (ADP‐forming) from the amitochondriate protist, Giardia lamblia
Authors: Sanchez Lidya B. , Müller Miklós
Published: May 2003

Giardia lamblia, an amitochondriate eukaryote, contains acetyl‐CoA synthetase (ADP‐forming), an enzyme known only from one other eukaryote (Entamoeba histolytica) and a few anaerobic prokaryotes. The enzyme has been purified about 350‐fold. The activity in the direction of acetate formation was dependent on ADP and inorganic phosphate. The reverse reaction could not be detected. Succinyl‐CoA, propionyl‐CoA and dADP were utilized with lower efficiency. The enzyme did not utilize AMP plus PPi thus differs from the broadly distributed acetyl‐CoA synthetase (AMP‐forming). The enzyme is responsible for acetate production accompanied by ATP generation, thus plays an important role in G. lamblia metabolism.
Effects of N‐terminal deletions on 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate synthase activity
Authors: Li Ning , Huxtable Susan , Shang Fa Yang  , Shain Dow Kung
Published: May 2003

A series of nested N‐terminal deletions were made on the full‐length (wt) and C‐terminal deleted (Cdel) 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate synthase cDNAs. These wt and mutant ACC synthases were over‐expressed in a heterologous E. coli expression system. It was found that removal of an amino acid region (residues 2–12) from the non‐conserved N‐termini of wt and Cdel ACC synthases led to a slight increase in both in vivo ACC production and in vitro ACC synthase activity. Further deletion of 11 amino acids through Glu‐23 from the N‐termini of both wt and Cdel ACC synthases resulted in a substantial reduction in both in vivo ACC production and in vitro enzyme activity. Deletion of an amino acid region, residues 3 through 27, from the N‐terminus of ACC synthase abolished enzyme activity completely. Kinetic analysis of a highly purified double‐deletion mutant (NCdel‐1) of ACC synthase demonstrated that the K
m of this mutant is 42 μM, which is much smaller than that of the corresponding Cdel (280 μM) and closer to that of wt (22 μM) reported previously, suggesting a clear effect of the non‐conserved N‐terminal region on its ACC synthase function.
The modulation of the rate of inactivation of the mKv1.1 K+ channel by the β subunit, Kvβ1 and lack of effect of a Kvβ1 N‐terminal peptide
Authors: Stephens Gary J. , Cockett Mark I. , Nawoschik S.P. , Schecter L.E. , Owen David G.
Published: May 2003

The coexpression of the rat Kvβ1 subunit with the mouse Kv1.1 (mKv1.1) K+ channel in Chinese hamster ovary cells caused an increase in the rate of inactivation of whole‐cell current. Current decayed in a bi‐exponential fashion with a fast voltage‐dependent and a slower voltage‐independent component. The inactivating current component accounted for around 40% of the total outward current. In contrast to previous studies using K+ channel α subunits, peptides based on the N‐terminal of the Kvβ1 subunit were unable to mimic the action of the entire subunit. The findings indicate differences between the inactivation induced by the Kvβ1 subunit and the N‐type inactivation mechanism associated with certain rapidly‐inactivating cloned K+ channel α subunits.
Cloning and expression of a bovine adenylyl cyclase type VII specific to the retinal pigment epithelium
Authors: Völkel H. , Beitz E. , Klumpp S. , Schultz J.E.
Published: May 2003

A cDNA of a type 7 adenylyl cyclase isoform was cloned from a bovine retinal pigment epithelium cDNA library using oligonucleotides developed to conserved regions common to mammalian adenylyl cyclases. A 6.7 kb mRNA of very high abundance was uniquely present on Northern blots containing mRNA or total RNA from the pigment epithelium. This transcript was undetectable in all other tissues examined. The cDNA encoded a protein of 1,097 amino acids and exhibited the known doublet of 6 transmembrane‐spanning regions in a hydrophobicity plot. The novel member of the type 7 adenylyl cyclase isoform was expressed in COS‐1 cells. It was stimulated 10‐ and 20‐fold by 10 μM GTPγS and 100 μM forskolin, respectively. The high expression rate exclusively in the retinal pigment epithelium suggests that this adenylyl cyclase isoform is involved in processes specific to this functionally exceedingly important subretinal cell layer.
Identification of cell surface determinants in Candida albicans reveals Tsa1p, a protein differentially localized in the cell
Authors: Urban C , Sohn K , Lottspeich F , Brunner H , Rupp S
Published: May 2003

To identify cell surface proteins of Candida albicans, the predominant fungal pathogen in humans, we have established an approach using a membrane impermeable biotin derivative in combination with affinity purification. We were able to identify 29 different proteins under two distinct conditions. Among mannoproteins, heat shock proteins and glycolytic enzymes we found thiol‐specific antioxidant‐like protein 1 (Tsa1p) to be differentially localized depending on the conditions applied. Only in hyphally grown cells Tsa1p was localized to the cell surface whereas in blastospores no surface but mainly nuclear localization was found. This indicates that cell surface expression of at least some proteins is mediated by differential translocation.
Divergent evolution of flavonoid 2‐oxoglutarate‐dependent dioxygenases in parsley1
Authors: Martens Stefan , Forkmann Gert , Britsch Lothar , Wellmann Frank , Matern Ulrich , Lukačin Richard
Published: May 2003

Flavone synthases (FNSs) catalyze the oxidation of flavanones to flavones, i.e. the formation of apigenin from (2S)‐naringenin. While many plants express a microsomal‐type FNS II, the soluble FNS I appears to be confined to a few species of the Apiaceae and was cloned recently from parsley plants. FNS I belongs to the FeII/2‐oxoglutarate‐dependent dioxygenases characterized by short conserved sequence elements for cofactor binding, and its evolutionary context and mode of action are under investigation. Using a homology‐based reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction approach, two additional flavonoid‐specific dioxygenases were cloned from immature parsley leaflets, which were identified as flavanone 3β‐hydroxylase (FHT) and flavonol synthase (FLS) after expression in yeast cells. Sequence alignments revealed marginal differences among the parsley FNS I and FHT polypeptides of only 6%, while much less identity (about 29%) was observed with the parsley FLS. Analogous to FNS I, FLS oxidizes the flavonoid γ‐pyrone by introducing a C2, C3 double bond, and (2R,3S)‐dihydrokaempferol (cis‐dihydrokaempferol) was proposed recently as the most likely intermediate in both FNS I and FLS catalysis. Incubation of either FNS I or FLS with cis‐dihydrokaempferol exclusively produced kaempferol and confirmed the assumption that flavonol formation occurs via hydroxylation at C3 followed by dehydratation. However, the lack of apigenin in these incubations ruled out cis‐dihydrokaempferol as a free intermediate in FNS I catalysis. Furthermore, neither (+)‐trans‐dihydrokaempferol nor unnatural (−)‐trans‐dihydrokaempferol and 2‐hydroxynaringenin served as a substrate for FNS I. Overall, the data suggest that FNS I has evolved uniquely in some Apiaceae as a paraphyletic gene from FHT, irrespective of the fact that FNS I and FLS catalyze equivalent desaturation reactions.
Neutrophil elastase up‐regulates interleukin‐8 via toll‐like receptor 4
Authors: Devaney James M , Greene Catherine M , Taggart Clifford C , Carroll Tomás P , O'Neill Shane J , McElvaney Noel G
Published: May 2003

Cystic fibrosis is characterised in the lungs by high levels of neutrophil elastase (NE). NE induces interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) expression via an IL‐1 receptor‐associated kinase signalling pathway. Here, we show that these events involve the cell surface membrane bound toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4). We demonstrate that human embryonic kidney (HEK)293 cells transfected with a TLR4 cDNA (HEK‐TLR4) express TLR4 mRNA and protein and induce IL‐8 promoter activity in response to NE. Treatment of both HEK‐TLR4 and human bronchial epithelial cells with NE decreases TLR4 protein expression. Furthermore, a TLR4 neutralising antibody abrogates NE‐induced IL‐8 production, and induces tolerance to a secondary lipopolysaccharide stimulus. These data implicate TLR4 in NE induced IL‐8 expression in bronchial epithelium.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae 14‐3‐3 proteins Bmh1 and Bmh2 participate in the process of catabolite inactivation of maltose permease
Authors: Mayordomo Isabel , Regelmann Jochen , Horak Jaroslav , Sanz Pascual
Published: May 2003

In this study we show that Reg1, the regulatory subunit of the Reg1/Glc7 protein phosphatase (PP1) complex, interacts physically with the two yeast members of the 14‐3‐3 protein family, Bmh1 and Bmh2. By using different fragments of the Reg1 protein we mapped the interaction domain at the N‐terminal part of the protein. We also show that Reg1 and yeast 14‐3‐3 proteins participate actively in the regulation of the glucose‐induced degradation of maltose permease (Mal61).
In situ photoaffinity labeling of the target protein for lembehyne A, a neuronal differentiation inducer
Authors: Aoki Shunji , Matsui Kouhei , Takata Tetsuo , Kobayashi Motomasa
Published: May 2003

A C36 linear acetylene alcohol, lembehyne A (LB‐A), induces neuronal differentiation against neuroblastoma cells morphologically and also functionally. The differentiation and cytostatic effect induced by LB‐A was specific to neuroblastoma, Neuro 2A cells. To identify the target protein for LB‐A, a radioactive photoaffinity probe, [125I]18‐(2′‐azido‐5′‐iodo‐benzoyloxy)‐LB‐18 ([125I]azido‐LB‐18), was synthesized. As a result of in situ labeling experiments against Neuro 2A cells, a protein of M
r 30 kDa was photolabeled specifically. This labeling was inhibited in the presence of LB‐A or the active analogs of LB‐A, whereas the inactive analogs showed no inhibitory effect on this labeling. These results suggest that this protein of M
r 30 kDa is the target protein for LB‐A and may play an important role for the neuronal differentiation in neuroblastoma, Neuro 2A cells.
Anti‐angiogenic property of edible berry in a model of hemangioma
Authors: Atalay Mustafa , Gordillo Gayle , Roy Sashwati , Rovin Brad , Bagchi Debasis , Bagchi Manashi , Sen Chandan K
Published: May 2003

Hemangiomas represent a powerful model to study in vivo angiogenesis. Monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP‐1) is known to be responsible for recruiting macrophages to sites of infection or inflammation and facilitate angiogenesis. Recently we have demonstrated that edible berry extracts potently suppress inducible vascular endothelial growth factor expression and in vitro angiogenesis. Comparative analysis of several berry extracts led to the observation that wild blueberry and a berry mix were most effective. Our goal was to follow up on our findings with wild blueberry and the berry mix (OptiBerry). The present work rests on our current finding that these two berry powders significantly inhibit inducible MCP‐1 expression in endothelioma cells. Therefore, we sought to examine the effects of wild blueberry and berry mix in an in vivo model of experimental angiogenesis. Reporter studies showed that the berry powders significantly inhibited basal MCP‐1 transcription and inducible nuclear factor κB transcription. Endothelioma cells pre‐treated with berry powders showed diminished ability to form hemangioma. Histological analysis demonstrated markedly decreased infiltration of macrophages in hemangioma of treated mice compared to placebo‐treated controls. The current results provide the first in vivo evidence substantiating the anti‐angiogenic property of edible berries.
Pharmacological analysis of a dopamine D2Short:Gαofusion protein expressed in Sf9 cells
Authors: Gazi Lucien , Wurch Thierry , Lopéz-Giménez Juan F. , Pauwels Petrus J. , Strange Philip G.
Published: May 2003

A dopamine D2Shortreceptor:Gαofusion protein was expressed in Sf9 cells using the baculovirus expression system. [3H]Spiperone bound to D2Short:Gαowith a pKd≈10. Dopamine stimulated the binding of [35S]guanosine‐5′‐O‐(3‐thio)triphosphate (GTPγS) to D2Short:Gαoexpressed with Gβ1γ2(Emax>460%; pEC505.43±0.06). Most of the putative D2antagonists behaved as inverse agonists (suppressing basal [35S]GTPγS binding) at D2Short:Gαo/Gβ1γ2although (−)‐sulpiride and ziprasidone were neutral antagonists. Competition of [3H]spiperone binding by dopamine and 10,11‐dihydroxy‐N‐n‐propylnorapomorphine revealed two binding sites of different affinities, even in the presence of GTP (100 μM). The D2Short:Gαofusion protein is therefore a good model for characterising D2receptors.
Doppler‐ultrasound as a predictor of uterine fibroid response to GnRH therapy
Authors: Kanelopoulos N. , Dendrinos S. , Oikonomou A. , Panagopoulos P. , Markussis V.
Published: May 2003

Objectives:GnRH agonists (GnRHa) are able to reduce the bleeding and size of fibroids. We monitored the response of fibroids to GnRHa with power‐Doppler ultrasound.Methods:Thirty‐five women with fibroids, aged 32–48, received a 6‐month course with the GnRHa triptorelin (Decapeptyl, Ipsen, France). The resistance index (RI) of the uterine artery was measured with power‐Doppler ultrasound.Results:The uterine volume reduced from 470±347 to 297±295 cm3(P<0.01) at the 6th month of treatment. The fibroid volume reduced after 3 months of treatment from 62±81 to 44±78 cm3(P<0.05) and after 6 months of treatment to 30±70 cm3(P<0.001 from baseline). Uterine artery RI increased from 0.73±0.16 to 1.05±0.27 at the 3rd month of treatment (P<0.001). The percent reduction of fibroid volume at the 6th month correlated with the percent increase of uterine RI at the 3rd month of treatment (r=0.45,P=0.01).Conclusions:The administration of triptorelin reduced fibroid dimensions. The increase of the uterine artery resistance index (RI) at the 3rd month correlated with fibroid shrinkage at the 6th month of treatment and may be used to predict the response to this therapeutic maneuver.
The acid phosphatase positive organelles of the Giardia lamblia trophozoite contain a membrane bound cathepsin C activity
Authors: Thirion Jacqueline , Wattiaux Robert , Jadot Michel
Published: May 2003

Abstract We found a dipeptidyl aminopeptidase activity in the parasitic protozoan Giardia lamblia with properties similar to the lysosomal cathepsin C of rat‐liver lysosomes. Subcellular fractionation of this parasite indicated that the cathepsin C activity is located in organelles not distinguishable from the ones containing acid phosphatase, a known marker enzyme of Giardia lysosome‐like peripheral vesicles. Contrary to the rat lysosomal enzyme, Giardia cathepsin C behaved like a membrane protein. Moreover, the enzyme was not solubilized by Triton X‐100 or Triton X‐100/SDS at 0 °C but could be substantially solubilized by octylglucoside, Triton X‐100 at 37 °C or by a pretreatment with the cholesterol complexing agent β‐cyclodextrin before the Triton/SDS treatment carried out at 0 °C. These observations suggest that binding/anchorage of this enzyme to membranes occurs in cholesterol‐rich microdomains.
Chondrogenic differentiation during midfacial development in the mouse: in vivo and in vitro studies
Authors: Pavlov M.I. , Sautier J.‐M. , Oboeuf M. , Asselin A. , Berdal A.
Published: May 2003

Abstract Because the mouse is now the main model for developmental research of all types, it is important to understand the basic developmental pattern of various organs. The first aim of the present study was to establish normal prenatal developmental standards of the cartilaginous nasal capsule during embryonic development of the mouse. For this purpose we have performed sagittal and coronal sections ranging from E12.5 to E18.5 in gestation age. The primordia of the nasal septal cartilage is recognizable around the 14th embryonic day as demonstrated by the metachromatic toluidine blue staining and by immunostaining of type II collagen. Northern blot analysis of the transcription factors Cart‐1 and Sox‐9 indicated maximum mRNA levels at E12.5 then a decreased expression during the following days of gestation. Type II collagen and aggrecan mRNA levels are constant during the embryonic period. In the second part of this study, we have established a primary culture system where chondrocytes were isolated from E.18 mouse embryo nasal septum. The purpose of this second part was to assess if chondrocytes could further differentiate in vitro until the hypertrophic phase and matrix mineralization. After the condensation phase, the cells synthesize an extracellular matrix including type II collagen and aggrecan. Progressively, typical cartilaginous nodules composed of clusters of round cells are visible, then increase in size and finally mineralize at day 12 of culture. Cart‐1 and Sox‐9 mRNA levels remain constant throughout the cultures, whereas type II collagen and aggrecan gradually decrease. Ultrastructural observations of the nodules show typical chondrocytes embedded in a dense network of fibers with matrix vesicles and mineralized foci. Other ultrathin sections revealed the presence of chondrons, typical of hyaline cartilage. Results from this study provide useful tools to further investigate morphogenesis and differentiation of the cartilaginous nasal capsule, and could in the future serve as a basic developmental standard.
The interaction of two classes of nuclear vesicles is induced by the dissociation of soluble proteins from one class of vesicles
Authors: Oke Yoshihiko , Inoue Akio
Published: May 2003

Abstract The regulatory mechanism of fusion steps in nuclear envelope assembly was studied in vitro using cell‐free extracts of Xenopus eggs. The nuclear envelope is formed only around the chromatin at the end of mitosis. Two kinds of vesicles are required for nuclear envelope assembly (J. Cell Biol. 112 (1991) 545). Light vesicles (LVs) have the chromatin‐binding activity, but cannot fuse solely. On the other hand, heavy vesicles (HVs) neither bind to the chromatin nor LVs, but are needed for the fusion event. Therefore, the association of HVs with LVs that bind to the chromatin is required at a first step during the fusion of vesicles. We found that salt‐treated HVs inhibited the binding of LVs to the chromatin. In addition, when salt‐treated HVs were pretreated with the proteins in the residue of salt‐treatment of HVs, LVs recovered the chromatin‐binding activity. In contrast, salt‐treatment of LVs did not influence the binding of LVs with chromatin. By using a fluorescence microscopy assay, we showed directly that salt‐treated HVs associated with LVs or salt‐treated LVs, but HVs did not. These results suggest that soluble mask proteins on HVs keep the two distinct vesicles separate. We propose that the dissociation of mask protein on HVs allows HVs to bind with LVs that are located on the chromatin, subsequently the fusion of each vesicle occurs and the nuclear envelope is formed.
Vortex pinning with bounded fields for the Ginzburg–Landau equation
Authors: Andre Nelly , Bauman Patricia , Phillips Dan
Published: May 2003

We investigate vortex pinning in solutions to the Ginzburg–Landau equation. The coefficient,

a(x)

, in the Ginzburg–Landau free energy modeling non-uniform superconductivity is nonnegative and is allowed to vanish at a finite number of points. For a sufficiently large applied magnetic field and for all sufficiently large values of the Ginzburg–Landau parameter

κ=1/ε

, we show that minimizers have nontrivial vortex structures. We also show the existence of local minimizers exhibiting arbitrary vortex patterns, pinned near the zeros of

a(x)

.

On étudie la localisation des vortex des solutions de l’équation de Ginzburg–Landau. Dans l’énergie libre de Ginzburg–Landau, le coefficient

a(x)

modélise la supraconductivité non uniforme. Ce coefficient est positif et s’annule en un nombre fini de points. On montre que, pour un champ magnétique assez grand et pour toutes les valeurs du paramètre de Ginzbug–Landau

κ=1/ε

assez grandes, les minimiseurs présentent des structures de vortex non triviales. On montre aussi l’existence de minimiseurs locaux présentant une structure prescrite de vortex situés au voisinage des zéros de

a(x)

.
Acetabular blood flow during Bernese periacetabular osteotomy: An intraoperative study using laser Doppler flowmetry
Authors: Hempfing Axel , Leunig Michael , Nötzli Hubert P. , Beck Martin , Ganz Reinhold
Published: May 2003

Background: The blood flow to the acetabular fragment is of some concern in juxtaarticular pelvic osteotomies used for the treatment of hip dysplasia. No direct measurements have determined the effect of the Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) on acetabular perfusion.

Methods: Acetabular perfusion was measured by means of laser Doppler flowmetry in 10 patients undergoing a PAO for symptomatic acetabular dysplasia. During the surgical procedure, the intraosseous high energy laser Doppler reliably depicts dynamic changes of small vessel blood flow. Measurements were performed after defined surgical steps to obtain sequential information on the blood perfusion of the acetabular fragment.

Results: After complete separation of the acetabular fragment, nine out of 10 patients had pulsatile signals, but the blood flow (BF) significantly decreased by 77%. Corrective positioning of the fragment induced no further drop of the BF signal but a loss of pulsatility in six patients. After a recovery period of about 30 min following preliminary fixation of the fragment, reestablishment of the pulsatile signal and an increase of the BF signal was seen. At termination of the surgical procedure, five out of eight patients, who could be followed throughout the whole procedure, showed a clear pulsatile signal in the supraacetabular area. Bleeding of the supraacetabular cancellous surface could be observed in all acetabula.

Conclusion: Despite careful preservation of soft tissues during the surgical procedure, a significant reduction of the blood flow in the supraacetabular region has been observed. Nevertheless, a pulsatile signal in more than 60% of the fragments after fragment correction and an increasing signal during the recovery period showed ongoing blood perfusion indicating reversible changes in the measured supraacetabular area. All osteotomies healed within eight weeks without showing signs of necrosis during a minimum follow up of 1 year. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Oral health and treatment needs of institutionalized chronic psychiatric patients in Israel
Authors: Ramon T. , Grinshpoon A. , Zusman S.P. , Weizman A.
Published: May 2003

The aim of the study was to examine the oral health and treatment needs of chronically hospitalized psychiatric patients in Israel. Ten percent of the patients hospitalized for more than 2 years in the 18 psychiatric institutions in Israel were selected at random. The dental status (DMF-T index) was calculated, demographic and medical data were retrieved from the files. Of the 431 patients examined (250 men, 181 women, average age 54 years) 312 patients had only partial natural dentition. The average DMF-T score was 26.74 (out of 32), one of the highest in the literature. The caries component accounted for 2.3% of the DMF-T, the missing teeth component 72% and the restored teeth component 5%. There was an adverse correlation between age and caries and between duration of hospitalization and number of teeth. The average number of carious and missing teeth was higher than in the healthy population. No all-edentulous patients had dentures. These findings confirm the urgent need for an intervention program to improve dental health care in high-risk, difficult-to-treat, psychiatric chronic inpatients.
Normal and obsessional jealousy: a study of a population of young adults
Authors: Marazziti Donatella , Di Nasso Elena , Masala Irene , Baroni Stefano , Abelli Marianna , Mengali Francesco , Mungai Francesco , Rucci Paola
Published: May 2003

Background

Jealousy is a heterogenous emotion ranging from normality to pathology. Several problems still exist in the distinction between normal and pathological jealousy.

Aim of the study

With the present study, we aimed to contribute to the definition of the boundary between obsessional and normal jealousy by means of a specific self-report questionnaire developed by us.

Methods

The questionnaire called “Questionnaire on the Affective Relationships” (QAR) and consisting of 30 items, was administered to 400 university students of both sexes and to 14 outpatients affected by obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) whose main obsession was jealousy. The total scores and single items were analysed and compared.

Results

Two hundred and forty-five, approximately 61% of the questionnaires, were returned. The statistical analyses showed that patients with OCD had higher total scores than healthy subjects; in addition, it was possible to identify an intermediate group of subjects, corresponding to 10% of the total, who were concerned by jealousy thoughts around the partner, but at a lower degree than patients, and that we called “healthy jealous subjects” because they had no other psychopathological trait. Significant differences were also observed for single items in the three groups.

Conclusions

Our study showed that 10% of a population of university students, albeit normal, have jealousy thoughts around the partner, as emerged by the specific questionnaire developed by us. This instrument permitted to clearly distinguish these subjects from patients with OCD and healthy subjects with no jealousy concern.
Depression influences the EDI scores in anorexia nervosa patients
Authors: Bizeul Chantal , Brun Jean Marcel , Rigaud Daniel
Published: May 2003

Aim

To study the influence of the severity of depression on the eating disorder’s inventory (EDI) scores in anorexia nervosa (AN) patients.

Methods

We compared by variance analysis the EDI scores from three groups of AN patients: 55 patients having a major depression (as assessed by a Beck’s depression inventory (BDI) ≥ 16); 77 patients having a less severe depression (BDI < 16); 32 patients with mild or non-existent depression (BDI ≤ 7) and the EDI scores from a control group of 29 French healthy young women.

Results

Higher EDI scores were elicited in the more severely depressed AN patients than in the less- or non-depressed AN patients (P < 0.01). In non-depressed AN patients, none of the scores was different from those of the control group. This was particularly true for the scores “Slimness wish”, “bulimia”, “body image dissatisfaction”, “perfectionism” and “fear of maturity”. The non-depressed restrictive AN patients had no score which differ from healthy controls.

Discussions

The present results suggested that the EDI scores are clearly influenced by the severity of depression. Among the psychopathological and behavioural traits assessed with the EDI, only a few were not related to depressive symptoms: “feeling of inefficiency” and “distrust in interpersonal relations”.
Risk factors, and the neurodevelopmental course of schizophrenia
Authors: Walker E.
Published: May 2003

From birth to two years, preschizophrenic children show much higher rates of neuromotor abnormalities and negative affective displays than their healthy siblings. Retrospectively, parents report that preschizophrenic children show more social and interpersonal problems and more abnormalities of thought. Similar results have been found with adolescents who have schizotypal personality disorder. Adolescence appears to be a critical period for the emergence of psychopathology in general, but especially for psychotic disorders. This may in large part be through the actions of gonadal and adrenal hormones, including cortisol, and in particular their influence on the expression of genes. In the case of schizophrenia, these are presumably the vulnerability genes. Patients with schizophrenia have heightened baseline levels of cortisol, and a heightened cortisol response to some biological challenges. Cortisol levels are positively correlated with symptom severity. In addition, the hippocampus, which modulates the activity of the HPA axis, is abnormal in schizophrenia. The HPA axis and hippocampal complex are modulatory neural systems; in the case of schizophrenia, what they might be modulating is the expression of abnormalities in dopamine neurotransmission. Whilst we assume that schizophrenia has prenatal neurodevelopmental origins, neural maturational processes that occur later in life, especially in adolescence, have significant implications for the expression of the illness. It is likely that preventive interventions for schizophrenia, be they pharmacological or behavioural, will have the best chance of success if they are directed at adolescents who are showing preschizophrenic indicators.
Schizophrenia, the prefrontal cortex, and a mechanism of genetic susceptibility
Authors: Weinberger D.R.
Published: May 2003

Information-processing in the prefrontal cortex is abnormal in patients with schizophrenia. From functional neuroimaging and other studies, it appears that neurons of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex are effectors of core clinical and biological phenomena associated with the illness. Cognitive deficits qualitatively similar to those in patients with schizophrenia are also found in their healthy siblings and other relatives. The evidence for abnormal prefrontal function in healthy siblings suggests that the deficit in information-processing is part of the biology of genetic susceptibility. Therefore, genetic variations in human DNA that affect this kind of information-processing may contribute part of the genetic risk for the illness. COMT is an enzyme that is distributed widely throughout the brain, but seems to be uniquely relevant to how dopamine affects information-processing in the prefrontal cortex. There is a common variation in the genetic sequence of the COMT gene, which causes a dramatic change in its enzyme activity. In people with schizophrenia, in their healthy siblings, and also in normal controls, the COMT genotype predicts 4% of the variation in human executive cognition and working memory. We have thus identified a genetic mechanism in the human species that affects the efficiency and efficacy of information-processing in the prefrontal cortex. It is, also, a weak genetic risk factor for schizophrenia: in family studies, it increases the risk of schizophrenia by 50-80%. Prefrontal neuronal tuning may be a target for new drug development in the future.
Intranuclear Ca2+signals within individual nuclear lobes of neutrophils
Authors: Hodges Robert , Laffafian Iraj , Hallett Maurice B.
Published: May 2003

Cytosolic free Ca2+and intranuclear Ca2+behave similarly in human neutrophils. However, conventional laser scanning at 350 ms/frame resolution at lower than physiological temperatures demonstrates that (i) the nuclear fluo3‐Ca2+signal persists longer than the cytosolic signal in some (but not all) nuclear lobes, (ii) the neutrophil nuclear membrane and fine inter‐lobe filaments present barriers to diffusion of fluo3‐Ca2+and lucifer yellow, and (iii) the diffusion barrier correlates with condensed chromosomal material on the nuclear envelope and blockage of the movement of fluo3‐Ca2+into individual nuclear lobes.
Growth control of mouse mammary epithelial cells by keratin antibody‐targeted liposome containing oligonucleotides antisense to epidermal growth factor receptor
Authors: Yuh In‐Suh , Lee Seung‐Youp , Hong Byong‐Ju
Published: May 2003

NMuMG cells were incubated with 17β‐estradiol (E)+progesterone (P)+epidermal growth factor (EGF), with or without various types of oligomers (21‐mers) to the EGF receptor activity domain (amino acid residues 718 to 724). Sense or antisense oligomers were encapsulated in protein A‐bearing liposomes. Uncoupled protein A and unencapsulated sense or antisense oligomers were separated from liposomes on a Sepharose 4B column (the encapsulation efficiency of oligomers in liposome—protein A was 0.8%). The addition of various concentrations of EGF to E+P showed an interaction between them during DNA synthesis (P<0.05). Antisense oligomers (1 μM) decreased DNA synthesis induced by E+P+EGF (65.0% inhibition, P<0.05). Sense oligomers also inhibited DNA synthesis induced by E+P+EGF (P<0.05). However, random‐sequence oligomers did not inhibit EGF‐induced DNA synthesis. We cannot rule out the possibility that sense oligomers match an unknown functional gene mRNA involved in cell growth, which causes their inhibitory effect. Cells were incubated with a keratin monoclonal antibody and then with dilutions of protein A‐bound liposomes containing sense or antisense oligomers in the presence of E+P+EGF. Dose dependent inhibition of DNA synthesis was observed. The encapsulated oligomers in protein A‐bound liposomes inhibited DNA synthesis at a 100‐fold lower concentration than that of unencapsulated oligomers or the oligomer+liposome mixture. The tyrosine kinase activity domain has an important role in EGF regulation of mammary growth. The effect of a cytokeratin‐targeted antibody on DNA synthesis in normal mouse mammary epithelial cells was marginal.
Effect of a single neonatal endorphin treatment on the hormone content of adult rat white blood cells and mast cells
Authors: Csaba György , Kovács Péter , Pállinger Éva
Published: May 2003

Using flow cytometry and confocal microscopy, the presence of endorphin, serotonin and chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) was demonstrated in rat white blood cells and peritoneal mast cells. After a single neonatal treatment with β‐endorphin (hormonal imprinting), the mast cells of female rats reaching adulthood contained significantly less endorphin and serotonin, as well as slightly less hCG, than control cells. There was no change in the hormone content of the mast cells of males. The lymphocytes, monocytes and granulocytes of both sexes also contained the three hormones, but endorphin imprinting had no effect on these cells.
Unexpected durability of PKH 26 staining on rat adipocytes
Authors: Rieck Bernd
Published: May 2003

In a case of autologous mature fat cell transplantation to an individual rat, persistence of adipose staining with PKH26 was detected 14.5 months later. Fluorescent fat cells with spotty surface markings were easily visible. Such a long period of persistence and stability of staining exceeds the expectation from previous reports, and the given half‐life of the substance. This finding encourages the use of the dye for long‐term follow‐up of connective tissue cells, especially adipocytes and preadipocytes, following transplantation.
The short-term clinical efficacy of amitriptyline in the management of idiopathic feline lower urinary tract disease: A controlled clinical study
Authors: Kraijer M , Fink-Gremmels J , Nickel RF
Published: May 2003

In a controlled study, the effects of amitriptyline compared with that of a placebo in cats suffering from idiopathic Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) have been investigated. Thirty-six animals were selected by veterinary practitioners and treated with a placebo or 10 mg amitriptyline once daily. All animals received concomitant antibiotic treatment. A total of 24 cats were included in the final assessment of the results. The severity of symptoms before and after treatment were compared between groups and showed no significant difference. Results indicated that the 7-day course of 10 mg amitriptyline was not effective in the treatment of idiopathic FLUTD. Thus, it is considered not to be beneficial as a short-term therapy where the therapeutic results depend on peripheral effects of the drug. Long-term effects may be expected 4 or more weeks after the start of therapy and need to be further investigated.
Single-injection inulin clearance for routine measurement of glomerular filtration rate in cats
Authors: Haller M , Rohner K , Müller W , Reutter F , Binder H , Estelberger W , Arnold P
Published: May 2003

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was determined in 53 cats using an inulin single-injection method. Thirty healthy young adult cats were used to establish normal values. The procedure was also used in 23 cats that were either older than 10 years or had borderline serum creatinine levels. The total clearance was calculated from the decay of the serum inulin concentration after injection of 3000 mg/m2body surface area using a two-compartment model. Concomitant inulin and iohexol clearance in nine cats showed excellent correlation between the two methods. Calculated normal values for GFR in 30 healthy cats were 35.9–58.5 (median 46.0) ml/min/m2or 2.07–3.69 (median 2.72) ml/min/kg. A few cats with normal creatinine or blood urea nitrogen levels were detected as having reduced GFR and therefore being in a state of early renal dysfunction. The study indicates that single-injection inulin clearance is a valuable tool for routine GFR measurement in cats. An ‘inulin excretion test’ using only one blood sample 3 h after the administration of 3000 mg/m2body surface area could prove an attractive alternative for the assessment of renal function in daily practice.
Treatment of feline diabetes mellitus using an α-glucosidase inhibitor and a low-carbohydrate diet
Authors: Mazzaferro EM , Greco DS , Turner AS , Fettman MJ
Published: May 2003

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an α-glucosidase inhibitor (acarbose), combined with a low-carbohydrate diet on the treatment of naturally occurring diabetes mellitus in cats. Eighteen client-owned cats with naturally occurring diabetes mellitus were entered into the study. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) was performed prior to and 4 months after feeding the diet to determine total body composition, including lean body mass (LBM) and percent body fat. Each cat was fed a commercially available low-carbohydrate canned feline diet and received 12.5 mg/cat acarbose orally every 12 h with meals. All cats received subcutaneous insulin therapy except one cat in the study group that received glipizide (5 mg BID PO). Monthly serum glucose and fructosamine concentrations were obtained, and were used to adjust insulin doses based on individual cat's requirements. Patients were later classified as responders (insulin was discontinued, n=11) and non-responders (continued to require insulin or glipizide, n=7). Responders were initially obese (<28% body fat) and non-responders had significantly less body fat than responders (<28% body fat). Serum fructosamine and glucose concentrations decreased significantly in both responder and non-responder groups over the course of 4 months of therapy. Better results were observed in responder cats, for which exogenousinsulin therapy was discontinued, glycemic parameters improved, and body fat decreased. In non-responders, median insulin requirements decreased and glycemic parameters improved significantly, despite continued insulin dependence. The use a low-carbohydrate diet with acarbose was an effective means of decreasing exogenous insulin dependence and improving glycemiccontrol in a series of client-owned cats with naturally occurring diabetes mellitus.
Liver and intestinal transplantation in a child with cystic fibrosis: A case report
Authors: Fridell Jonathan A. , Mazariegos George V. , Orenstein David , Sindhi Rakesh , Reyes Jorge
Published: May 2003

Abstract:Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disorder that presents as a multisystem disease with meconium ileus being the presenting symptom in 20% of patients. Approximately half of these patients present with complicated meconium ileus mandating early surgical intervention, potentially resulting in short gut syndrome. Although liver transplantation in children with CF has been described, this is the first report of a combined liver and small bowel transplant in a recipient with CF. A 7‐month‐old boy with CF presented with short bowel syndrome following extensive small bowel resection for meconium ileus and progressive cholestatic liver failure from intravenous hyperalimentation. He underwent combined liver and small intestinal transplant. He was discharged home three weeks post‐transplant on enteral feeds with supplemental intravenous fluid. He has had routine protocol small bowel allograft biopsies with no documented rejection episodes. He has been treated for minor respiratory infections without major sequelae. Improvements in pulmonary therapy have impacted on the survival in the CF population to the point where the need for multiorgan transplantation will be increased in the future. Extrapolating from the excellent experience of liver transplantation in children with CF, early liver and small intestinal multivisceral transplantation, if indicated, can be performed safely in children with CF.
Increased serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 predict clinical outcome of patients with early B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Molica Stefano , Vitelli Gaetano , Levato Domenico , Giannarelli Diana , Vacca Angelo , Cuneo Antonio , Cavazzini Franceso , Squillace Roberto , Mirabelli Rosanna , Digiesi Giovanna
Published: May 2003

Background and Methods: Serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) which agree with progression in solid and haematological tumours were correlated to the risk of disease progression in 62 patients with early (Binet stage A) B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). Sera were taken at diagnosis and tested by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: MMP‐9 levels positively correlated with haemoglobin levels (P = 0.03) and platelet count (P = 0.03). No association was found with main clinico‐haematological features representative of tumour mass, such as peripheral blood lymphocytosis, bone marrow histology, Rai substages and β‐2 microglobulin (β‐2m). A cut‐off of MMP‐9 levels corresponding to 33rd percentile (203 ng/mL) or higher identified earlier upstaging and shorter progression‐free survival. MMP‐9 was a significant prognostic marker in multivariate analysis and partially independent of Rai substages, which suggests its inclusion into such a staging system to better stratify prognostically Rai stages I and II patients.

Conclusions: MMP‐9 serum levels predict disease behaviour and help to refine the prognosis of stage A CLL patients.