bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AN INTEGRATED STUDY OF DIAGENESIS AND DEPOSITIONAL FACIES IN TIDAL SANDSTONES: HAWAZ FORMATION (MIDDLE ORDOVICIAN), MURZUQ BASIN, LIBYA
Authors: Abouessa A. , Morad S.
Published: December 2008

Studies of the impact of diagenesis on reservoir quality in tidal sandstones can be of great importance in successful hydrocarbon exploration. The study reported here shows that diagenetic alterations and bioturbation have induced considerable deterioration and heterogeneity in the reservoir quality of the sand‐dominated tidal deposits of the Middle Ordovician Hawaz Formation in the Muruq Basin, Libya. Comparison is made between the diagenetic evolution of samples from the subsurface (present‐day depth 1500 m) and from surface outcrops in order to study the impact of burial and uplift on the spatial and temporal distribution of reservoir quality in the Hawaz Formation sandstones.

Eogenetic alterations, which were mediated by meteoric water circulation, included kaolinitization and dissolution of framework silicates and mechanical compaction. Mesogenetic alterations (T > 70°C; depth > 2 km) included pressure dissolution of quartz grains and concomitant quartz cementation, conversion of kaolinite into dickite, illitization of kaolinite and of grain‐coating clays, and the precipitation of Mg‐rich siderite cement. Reduction of intergranular porosity was due more to compaction than to cementation, yet quartz overgrowths are up to 16% in some of the sandstones. Bioturbation has resulted in a greater reduction in sandstone permeability in the lower part of the formation than the upper part. A higher ratio of dickite to kaolinite in subsurface samples than in outcrop samples is attributed to the longer residence time of the former sandstones under mesogenetic conditions. Telodiagenesis has not resulted in enhancement of reservoir quality of the Hawaz Formation Sandstones but in pseudomorphic calcitization of siderite and oxidation of pyrite to goethite.

This study shows that the reservoir‐quality evolution of tidal sandstones can best be elucidated when linked to depositional facies and distribution of diagenetic alterations.
A FUZZY LOGIC APPROACH TO ESTIMATING HYDRAULIC FLOW UNITS FROM WELL LOG DATA: A CASE STUDY FROM THE AHWAZ OILFIELD, SOUTH IRAN
Authors: Kadkhodaie‐Ilkhchi A. , Amini A.
Published: December 2008

Porosity‐permeability relationships in the framework of hydraulic flow units can be used to characterize heterogeneous reservoir rocks. Porosity is a volumetric parameter whereas permeability is a measure of a rock's flow properties and depends on pore distribution and connectivity. Thus zonation of a reservoir using flow zone indicators and the identification of flow units can be used to evaluate reservoir quality based on porosity‐permeability relationships.

In the present study, we attempt to make a quantitative correlation between flow units and well log responses using fuzzy logic in the mixed carbonate‐clastic Asmari Formation at the Ahwaz oilfield, South Iran. A hybrid neuro‐fuzzy approach was used to verify the results of fuzzy modelling. For this purpose, well log and core data from three wells at Ahwaz were used to make an intelligent formulation between core‐derived flow units and well log responses. Data from a separate well was used for evaluation and validation of the results.

The results of this study demonstrate that there is a good agreement between core‐derived and fuzzy‐logic derived flow units. Fuzzy logic was successful in modelling flow units from well logs at well locations for which no core data was available.
IMPACT OF DIAGENESIS ON RESERVOIR‐QUALITY EVOLUTION IN FLUVIAL AND LACUSTRINE‐DELTAIC SANDSTONES: EVIDENCE FROM JURASSIC AND TRIASSIC SANDSTONES FROM THE ORDOS BASIN, CHINA
Authors: Luo J.L. , Morad S. , Salem A. , Ketzer J.M. , Lei X.L. , Guo D.Y. , Hlal O.
Published: December 2008

The reservoir quality of Jurassic and Triassic fluvial and lacustrine‐deltaic sandstones in the intracratonic Ordos Basin is strongly influenced by depositional facies and various types of diagenetic modifications. The fluvial sandstones have higher average He‐porosity and permeability (14.8% and 12.7 mD, respectively) than the deltaic sandstones (9.8% and 5.8 mD, respectively). In addition to extensive mechanical compaction, eodiagenesis (220–97 Ma; depth < 2000 m; T < 70°C) has resulted in dissolution and kaolinitization of detrital silicates in the Jurassic fluvial sandstones, and in smectite infiltration and minor cementation by calcite and siderite in the Triassic fluvial and deltaic sandstones. Pervasive eogenetic carbonate cementation (> 20 vol.%) occurred in Triassic deltaic siltstones and very fine‐grained sandstones which are closely associated with organic‐rich mudstones. Mesodiagenesis (97–65 Ma), which occurred during rapid subsidence to depths of 3700–4400 m, resulted in the albitization of plagioclase, checmical compaction, the conversion of kaolinite into dickite, and cementation by quartz overgrowths, chlorite, illite, ankerite (δ13CVPDB=−2.4‰ to +2.6‰; δ18OVPDB=−21.5‰ to −10‰) and calcite (δ13CVPDB=−4.7‰ to +3.7‰; δ18OVPDB=−21.8‰ to −13.4‰). Oil emplacement (95 Ma) retarded cementation by mesogenetic quartz and carbonate but had little influence on dickite, illite and chlorite formation. Retardation of quartz cementation was also due to the presence of chlorite fringes around detrital quartz grains. Dickitization of eogenetic kaolinite together with the short residence time at maximum burial temperatures (105–124°C) has retarded the albitization of K‐feldspars and illite formation and hence prevented severe permeability destruction. Telodiagenesis, which occurred after uplift (Eocene to end‐Neogene), caused slight dissolution and kaolinitization of feldspars.

This study demonstrates that despite complex patterns of diagenetic modifications in the Triassic and Jurassic successions, depositional porosity and permeability are better preserved in fluvial meandering channel sandstones than in deltaic sandstones. These results should be important for modelling of reservoir‐quality distribution and exploration risk evaluation in the basin.
Spinal Cord Neuronal Pathology in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Gilmore Christopher P. , DeLuca Gabriele C. , Bö Lars , Owens Trudy , Lowe James , Esiri Margaret M. , Evangelou Nikos
Published: December 2008

The objective of this study was to assess neuronal pathology in the spinal cord in multiple sclerosis (MS), both within myelinated and demyelinated tissue. Autopsy material was obtained from 38 MS cases and 21 controls. Transverse sections were taken from three spinal cord levels and stained using Luxol Fast Blue/Cresyl Violet and myelin protein immunohistochemistry. Measurements of neuronal number and size were made for all neurons within the anterior horns of the gray matter. Neurons were classified as motoneurons or interneurons according to size criteria. In comparison with controls, both motoneuron and interneuron number were reduced in MS cases at the upper cervical (interneuron P = 0.0549; motoneuron P = 0.0073) and upper thoracic (interneuron P = 0.0507; motoneuron P = 0.0144), but not the lumbar level. Interneuron cross‐sectional area was reduced in MS cases at all levels (upper cervical, P = 0.0000; upper thoracic, P = 0.0002; lumbar, P = 0.0337). Neuronal loss appears to be predominantly related to local gray matter plaques, whereas interneuron atrophy occurs in both myelinated and demyelinated areas.
A karyotypic study on Silene, section Siphonomorpha species of Turkey
Authors: Yildiz Kemal , Minareci Ersin , Çirpici Ali , Dadandı Mehmet Y.
Published: December 2008

Karyology of the eight taxa of Silene sect. Siphonomorpha known from Turkey was investigated. Diploid chromosome numbers and the basic chromosome number of the studied taxa were obtained as 2n=24 and x=12, respectively. A karyotype analysis of the studied taxa was carried out and the chromosome numbers of S. splendens, S. amana and S. phrygia were determined for the first time. The smallest chromosomes were observed in S. fruticosa and the largest in S. italica subsp. italica. Silene splendens showed the highest A1 index, whereas S. amana had the highest interchromosomal asymmetry coefficient (A2). The karyologic results of the study and the analysis of chromosomal morphology of each taxon is presented.
Computational cardiac atlases: from patient to population and back
Authors: Young Alistair A. , Frangi Alejandro F.
Published: December 2008

Integrative models of cardiac physiology are important for understanding disease and planning intervention. Multimodal cardiovascular imaging plays an important role in defining the computational domain, the boundary/initial conditions, and tissue function and properties. Computational models can then be personalized through information derived from in vivo and, when possible, non‐invasive images. Efforts are now established to provide Web‐accessible structural and functional atlases of the normal and pathological heart for clinical, research and educational purposes. Efficient and robust statistical representations of cardiac morphology and morphodynamics can thereby be obtained, enabling quantitative analysis of images based on such representations. Statistical models of shape and appearance can be built automatically from large populations of image datasets by minimizing manual intervention and data collection. These methods facilitate statistical analysis of regional heart shape and wall motion characteristics across population groups, via the application of parametric mathematical modelling tools. These parametric modelling tools and associated ontological schema also facilitate data fusion between different imaging protocols and modalities as well as other data sources. Statistical priors can also be used to support cardiac image analysis with applications to advanced quantification and subject‐specific simulations of computational physiology.
The Cardiac Physiome: perspectives for the future
Authors: Bassingthwaighte James , Hunter Peter , Noble Denis
Published: December 2008

The Physiome Project, exemplified by the Cardiac Physiome, is now 10 years old. In this article, we review past progress and future challenges in developing a quantitative framework for understanding human physiology that incorporates both genetic inheritance and environmental influence. Despite the enormity of the challenge, which is certainly greater than that facing the pioneers of the human genome project 20 years ago, there is reason for optimism that real and accelerating progress is being made.
Effect of chronic exercise on DNA fragmentation and on lipid profiles in rat skeletal muscle
Authors: Tsalouhidou Sofia , Petridou Anatoli , Mougios Vassilis
Published: December 2008

The concentration and fatty acid composition of phospholipids in animal cells are important determinants of membrane function. Membrane function may influence apoptosis, a biological process that is crucial for the normal development and function of the body. Few and conflicting data exist regarding the effect of chronic exercise on apoptosis in skeletal muscle, and no data exist regarding the effect of chronic exercise on the fatty acid composition of individual muscle phospholipids. We therefore examined the effects of 8 weeks of voluntary wheel running on DNA fragmentation (an index of apoptosis) and on the concentration and fatty acid composition of individual muscle phospholipids and ceramide (a lipid involved in apoptotic signalling) in rat gastrocnemius muscle by comparing 11 trained and 14 untrained male Wistar rats. The trained animals had significantly (P < 0.05) higher cytochrome c oxidase activity (an index of aerobic adaptation) and lower phosphatidyl inositol concentration compared with their untrained counterparts. Groups did not differ in DNA fragmentation or any other lipid parameter. Our findings suggest that chronic wheel running did not affect apoptosis or the concentration and fatty acid composition of most phospholipids and ceramide in rat gastrocnemius muscle. Given the participation of several phospholipids and ceramide in apoptotic signalling, it appears that the lack of changes in the lipid parameters is in agreement with the lack of change in DNA fragmentation with exercise.
Potential To Reduce
Escherichia coli
Shedding in Cattle Feces by Using Sainfoin (
Onobrychis viciifolia
) Forage, Tested In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Berard Natalie C. , Holley Richard A. , McAllister Tim A. , Ominski Kim H. , Wittenberg Karin M. , Bouchard Kristen S. , Bouchard Jenelle J. , Krause Denis O.
Published: December 2008

There is a growing concern about the presence of pathogens in cattle manure and its implications on human and environmental health. The phytochemical-rich forage sainfoin (
Onobrychis viciifolia
) and purified phenolics (
trans
-cinnamic acid,
p
-coumaric acid, and ferulic acid) were evaluated for their ability to reduce the viability of pathogenic
Escherichia coli
strains, including
E. coli
O157:H7. MICs were determined using purified phenolics and acetone extracts of sainfoin and alfalfa (
Medicago sativa
), a non-tannin-containing legume. Ground sainfoin or pure phenolics were mixed with fresh cattle feces and inoculated with a ciprofloxacin-resistant strain of
E. coli
, O157:H7, to assess its viability at −20°C, 5°C, or 37°C over 14 days. Forty steers were fed either a sainfoin (hay or silage) or alfalfa (hay or silage) diet over a 9-week period. In the in vitro study, the MICs for coumaric (1.2 mg/ml) and cinnamic (1.4 mg/ml) acids were 10- to 20-fold lower than the MICs for sainfoin and alfalfa extracts. In the inoculated feces, the −20°C treatment had death rates which were at least twice as high as those of the 5°C treatment, irrespective of the additive used. Sainfoin was less effective than coumaric acid in reducing
E. coli
O157:H7 Cip
r
in the inoculated feces. During the animal trial, fecal
E. coli
numbers declined marginally in the presence of sainfoin (silage and hay) and alfalfa silage but not in the presence of hay, indicating the presence of other phenolics in alfalfa. In conclusion, phenolic-containing forages can be used as a means of minimally reducing
E. coli
shedding in cattle without affecting animal production.
How Diverse Is the GenusWolbachia? Multiple-Gene Sequencing Reveals a Putatively NewWolbachiaSupergroup Recovered from Spider Mites (Acari: Tetranychidae)
Authors: Ros Vera I. D. , Fleming Vicki M. , Feil Edward J. , Breeuwer Johannes A. J.
Published: December 2008

At least 20% of all arthropods and some nematode species are infected with intracellular bacteria of the genusWolbachia. This highly diverse genus has been subdivided into eight “supergroups” (A to H) on the basis of nucleotide sequence data. Here, we report the discovery of a newWolbachiasupergroup recovered from the spider mite speciesBryobiaspecies V (Acari: Tetranychidae), based on the sequences of three protein-coding genes (ftsZ,gltA, andgroEL) and the 16S rRNA gene. Other tetranychid mites possess supergroup BWolbachiastrains. The discovery of anotherWolbachiasupergroup expands the known diversity ofWolbachiaand emphasizes the high variability of the genus. Our data also clarify the existing supergroup structure and highlight the use of multiple gene sequences for robust phylogenetic analysis. In addition to previous reports of recombination between the arthropod-infecting supergroups A and B, we provide evidence for recombination between the nematode-infecting supergroups C and D. Robust delineation of supergroups is essential for understanding the origin and spread of this common reproductive parasite and for unraveling mechanisms of host adaptation and manipulation across a wide range of hosts.
Pseudomonas savastanoi
pv. savastanoi Contains Two
iaaL
Paralogs, One of Which Exhibits a Variable Number of a Trinucleotide (TAC) Tandem Repeat
Authors: Matas Isabel M. , Pérez-Martínez Isabel , Quesada José M. , Rodríguez-Herva José J. , Penyalver Ramón , Ramos Cayo
Published: December 2008

In this study,
Pseudomonas savastanoi
pv. savastanoi isolates were demonstrated to contain two
iaaL
paralogs, which are both chromosomally located in most strains. Comparative analysis of
iaaL
nucleotide sequences amplified from these two paralogs revealed that one paralog,
iaaL
Psn
, is 100% identical to
iaaL
from
P. savastanoi
pv. nerii, while the other paralog,
iaaL
Psv
, exhibited 93% identity to
iaaL
from
Pseudomonas syringae
pv. tomato (
iaaL
Pto
). A 3-nucleotide motif (TAC) comprised of 3 to 15 repeats, which remained stable after propagation of the strains in olive plants, was found in
iaaL
Psv
. Based on the observed nucleotide sequence variations, a restriction fragment length polymorphism assay was developed that allowed differentiation among
iaaL
Psn
,
iaaL
Psv
, and
iaaL
Pto
.
In addition, reverse transcriptase PCR on total RNA from
P. savastanoi
pv. savastanoi strains demonstrated that both
iaaL
Psv
and
iaaL
Psn
containing 14 or fewer TAC repeats are transcribed. Capillary electrophoresis analysis of PCR-amplified DNA fragments containing the TAC repeats from
iaaL
Psv
allowed the differentiation of
P. savastanoi
pv. savastanoi isolates.
Bovine
Campylobacter jejuni
Strains Differ from Human and Chicken Strains in an Analysis of Certain Molecular Genetic Markers
Authors: Gonzalez Manuel , Hakkinen Marjaana , Rautelin Hilpi , Hänninen Marja-Liisa
Published: December 2008

The association of four new genetic markers with a chicken, bovine, or human host was studied among 645
Campylobacter jejuni
isolates. The γ-glutamate transpeptidase gene and
dmsA
were common in human and chicken isolates but uncommon among bovine isolates. In the
t
test, bovine isolates differed significantly (
P
< 0.05) from human and chicken isolates.
Environmental Isolates of
Burkholderia pseudomallei
in Ceará State, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Rolim Dione B. , Rocha Marcos F. G. , Brilhante Raimunda S. N. , Cordeiro Rossana A. , Leitão-Junior Natanael P. , Inglis Timothy J. J. , Sidrim José J. C.
Published: December 2008

Melioidosis has been considered an emerging disease in Brazil since the first cases were reported to occur in the northeast region. This study investigated two municipalities in Ceará state where melioidosis cases have been confirmed to occur.
Burkholderia pseudomallei
was isolated in 26 (4.3%) of 600 samples in the dry and rainy seasons.
Detection of an Allele Conferring Resistance to
Bacillus sphaericus
Binary Toxin in
Culex quinquefasciatus
Populations by Molecular Screening
Authors: Chalegre Karlos Diogo de Melo , Romão Tatiany Patrícia , Amorim Liliane Barbosa , Anastacio Daniela Bandeira , de Barros Rosineide Arruda , de Oliveira Cláudia Maria Fontes , Regis Lêda , de-Melo-Neto Osvaldo Pompílio , Silva-Filha Maria Helena Neves Lobo
Published: December 2008

The activity of the
Bacillus sphaericus
binary (Bin) toxin on
Culex quinquefasciatus
larvae depends on its specific binding to the Cqm1 receptor, a midgut membrane-bound α-glucosidase. A 19-nucleotide deletion in the
cqm1
gene (
cqm1

REC

) mediates high-level resistance to Bin toxin. Here, resistance in nontreated and
B. sphaericus
-treated field populations of
C. quinquefasciatus
was assessed through bioassays as well as a specific PCR assay designed to detect the
cqm1

REC

allele in individual larvae. Resistance ratios at 90% lethal concentration, gathered through bioassays, were close to 1 and indicate that the selected populations had similar levels of susceptibility to
B. sphaericus
, comparable to that of a laboratory colony. A diagnostic PCR assay detected the
cqm1

REC

allele in all populations investigated, and its frequency in two nontreated areas was 0.006 and 0.003, while the frequency in the
B. sphaericus
-treated population was significantly higher. Values of 0.053 and 0.055 were detected for two distinct sets of samples, and homozygote resistant larvae were found. Evaluation of Cqm1 expression in individual larvae through α-glucosidase assays corroborated the allelic frequency revealed by PCR. The data from this study indicate that the
cqm1

REC

allele was present at a detectable frequency in nontreated populations, while the higher frequency in samples from the treated area is, perhaps, correlated with the exposure to
B. sphaericus
. This is the first report of the molecular detection of a biolarvicide resistance allele in mosquito populations, and it confirms that the PCR-based approach is suitable to track such alleles in target populations.
Cytosine Deaminase as a Negative Selection Marker for Gene Disruption and Replacement in the Genus
Streptomyces
and Other Actinobacteria
Authors: Dubeau Marie-Pierre , Ghinet Mariana Gabriela , Jacques Pierre-Étienne , Clermont Nancy , Beaulieu Carole , Brzezinski Ryszard
Published: December 2008

We developed a novel negative selection system for actinobacteria based on cytosine deaminase (CodA). We constructed vectors that include a synthetic gene encoding the CodA protein from
Escherichia coli
optimized for expression in
Streptomyces
species. Gene disruption and the introduction of an unmarked in-frame deletion were successfully achieved with these vectors.
Characterization of the Complete Zwittermicin A Biosynthesis Gene Cluster fromBacillus cereus
Authors: Kevany Brian M. , Rasko David A. , Thomas Michael G.
Published: December 2008

Bacillus cereusUW85 produces the linear aminopolyol antibiotic zwittermicin A (ZmA). This antibiotic has diverse biological activities, such as suppression of disease in plants caused by protists, inhibition of fungal and bacterial growth, and amplification of the insecticidal activity of the toxin protein fromBacillus thuringiensis. ZmA has an unusual chemical structure that includes adamino acid and ethanolamine and glycolyl moieties, as well as having an unusual terminal amide that is generated from the modification of the nonproteinogenic amino acid β-ureidoalanine. The diverse biological activities and unusual structure of ZmA have stimulated our efforts to understand how this antibiotic is biosynthesized. Here, we present the identification of the complete ZmA biosynthesis gene cluster fromB. cereusUW85. A nearly identical gene cluster is identified on a plasmid fromB. cereusAH1134, and we show that this strain is also capable of producing ZmA. Bioinformatics and biochemical analyses of the ZmA biosynthesis enzymes strongly suggest that ZmA is initially biosynthesized as part of a larger metabolite that is processed twice, resulting in the formation of ZmA and two additional metabolites. Additionally, we propose that the biosynthesis gene cluster for the production of the amino sugar kanosamine is contained within the ZmA biosynthesis gene cluster inB. cereusUW85.
Gene Expression Profiling in the Human Pathogenic Dermatophyte
Trichophyton rubrum
during Growth on Proteins
Authors: Zaugg Christophe , Monod Michel , Weber Johann , Harshman Keith , Pradervand Sylvain , Thomas Jerome , Bueno Manuel , Giddey Karin , Staib Peter
Published: December 2008

Dermatophytes are highly specialized filamentous fungi which cause the majority of superficial mycoses in humans and animals. The high secreted proteolytic activity of these microorganisms during growth on proteins is assumed to be linked to their particular ability to exclusively infect keratinized host structures such as the skin stratum corneum, hair, and nails. Individual secreted dermatophyte proteases were recently described and linked with the in vitro digestion of keratin. However, the overall adaptation and transcriptional response of dermatophytes during protein degradation are largely unknown. To address this question, we constructed a cDNA microarray for the human pathogenic dermatophyte
Trichophyton rubrum
that was based on transcripts of the fungus grown on proteins. Profiles of gene expression during the growth of
T. rubrum
on soy and keratin protein displayed the activation of a large set of genes that encode secreted endo- and exoproteases. In addition, other specifically induced factors potentially implicated in protein utilization were identified, including heat shock proteins, transporters, metabolic enzymes, transcription factors, and hypothetical proteins with unknown functions. Of particular interest is the strong upregulation of key enzymes of the glyoxylate cycle in
T. rubrum
during growth on soy and keratin, namely, isocitrate lyase and malate synthase. This broad-scale transcriptional analysis of dermatophytes during growth on proteins reveals new putative pathogenicity-related host adaptation mechanisms of these human pathogenic fungi.
Global Gene Expression Analysis during Germination in the Chytridiomycete
Blastocladiella emersonii
Authors: Salem-Izacc Silvia M. , Koide Tie , Vêncio Ricardo Z. N. , Gomes Suely L.
Published: December 2008

Blastocladiella emersonii
is an aquatic fungus of the Chytridiomycete class. During germination, the zoospore, a motile nongrowing cell, goes through a cascade of morphological changes that culminates with its differentiation into the germling cell, capable of coenocytic vegetative growth. Transcriptome analyses of
B. emersonii
cells were carried out during germination induced under various environmental conditions. Microarray data analyzing 3,563 distinct
B. emersonii
genes revealed that 26% of them are differentially expressed during germination in nutrient medium at at least one of the time points investigated. Over 500 genes are upregulated during the time course of germination under those conditions, most being related to cell growth, including genes involved in protein biosynthesis, DNA transcription, energetic metabolism, carbohydrate and oligopeptide transport, and cell cycle control. On the other hand, several transcripts stored in the zoospores are downregulated during germination in nutrient medium, such as genes involved in signal transduction, amino acid transport, and chromosome organization. In addition, germination induced in the presence of nutrients was compared with that triggered either by adenine or potassium ions in inorganic salt solution. Several genes involved in cell growth, induced during germination in nutrient medium, do not show increased expression when
B. emersonii
zoospores germinate in inorganic solution, suggesting that nutrients exert a positive effect on gene transcription. The transcriptome data also revealed that most genes involved in cell signaling show the same expression pattern irrespective of the initial germination stimulus.
Subcellular Localization Directs Signaling Specificity of the
Cryptococcus neoformans
Ras1 Protein
Authors: Nichols Connie B. , Ferreyra Jessica , Ballou Elizabeth R. , Alspaugh J. Andrew
Published: December 2008

In the human fungal pathogen
Cryptococcus neoformans
, Ras signaling mediates sexual differentiation, morphogenesis, and pathogenesis. By studying Ras prenylation and palmitoylation in this organism, we have found that the subcellular localization of this protein dictates its downstream signaling specificity. Inhibiting
C. neoformans
Ras1 prenylation results in the defective general membrane targeting of this protein and the loss of all Ras function. In contrast, palmitoylation mediates localization of Ras1 to the plasma membrane and is required for normal morphogenesis and survival at high temperatures. However, palmitoylation and plasma membrane localization are not required for Ras-dependent sexual differentiation. Likely as a result of its effect on thermotolerance, Ras1 palmitoylation is also required for the pathogenesis of
C. neoformans
. These data support an emerging paradigm of compartmentalized Ras signaling. However, our studies also demonstrate fundamental differences between the Ras pathways in different organisms that emphasize the functional flexibility of conserved signaling cascades.
Late-onset retinal macular degeneration: clinical insights into an inherited retinal degeneration
Authors: Borooah S , Collins C , Wright A , Dhillon B
Published: December 2008

Aim

This study describes, in detail, the phenotype of late-onset retinal macular degeneration (L-ORMD) an inherited condition affecting both the retina and anterior segment. A staging based on clinical characteristics is proposed, and the relevance of this condition to current understanding of age-related macular degeneration is discussed.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature regarding this condition supports a detailed description of the natural history. Clinical experiences in identifying, monitoring and managing patients are also presented.

Results

L-ORMD is a rare fully penetrant autosomal dominant condition resulting from a mutation in the C1QTNF5 gene on chromosome 11. Affected individuals develop bilateral loss of vision, dark-adaptation abnormalities, fundus drusen-like yellow spots, midperipheral pigmentation, choroidal neovascularisation, chorioretinal atrophy and long anteriorly inserted lens zonules. Patients may benefit from treatment with high-dose vitamin A.

Conclusions

Raised awareness of L-ORMD should lead to earlier diagnosis and improved care for patients. New antivascular endothelial growth factor treatment may provide a new possibility for management. A deeper insight into molecular and genetic mechanisms of L-ORMD may suggest avenues to explore new treatments of this disorder.
Recreational soccer is an effective health-promoting activity for untrained men
Authors: Krustrup P , Nielsen J J , Krustrup B R , Christensen J F , Pedersen H , Randers M B , Aagaard P , Petersen A-M , Nybo L , Bangsbo J
Published: December 2008

To examine the effects of regular participation in recreational soccer on health profile, 36 healthy untrained Danish men aged 20–43 years were randomised into a soccer group (SO; n = 13), a running group (RU; n = 12) and a control group (CO; n = 11). Training was performed for 1 h two or three times per week for 12 weeks; at an average heart rate of 82% (SEM 2%) and 82% (1%) of HRmaxfor SO and RU, respectively. During the 12 week period, maximal oxygen uptake increased (p<0.05) by 13% (3%) and 8% (3%) in SO and RU, respectively. In SO, systolic and diastolic blood pressure were reduced (p<0.05) from 130 (2) to 122 (2) mm Hg and from 77 (2) to 72 (2) mm Hg, respectively, after 12 weeks, with similar decreases observed for RU. After the 12 weeks of training, fat mass was 3.0% (2.7 (0.6) kg) and 1.8% (1.8 (0.4) kg) lower (p<0.05) for SO and RU, respectively. Only SO had an increase in lean body mass (1.7 (0.4) kg, p<0.05), an increase in lower extremity bone mass (41 (8) g, p<0.05), a decrease in LDL-cholesterol (2.7 (0.2) to 2.3 (0.2) mmol/l; p<0.05) and an increase (p<0.05) in fat oxidation during running at 9.5 km/h. The number of capillaries per muscle fibre was 23% (4%) and 16% (7%) higher (p<0.05) in SO and RU, respectively, after 12 weeks. No changes in any of the measured variables were observed for CO. In conclusion, participation in regular recreational soccer training, organised as small-sided drills, has significant beneficial effects on health profile and physical capacity for untrained men, and in some aspects it is superior to frequent moderate-intensity running.
Thyrotropin-secreting pituitary tumours: significance of “atypical adenomas” in a series of 10 patients and association with Hashimoto thyroiditis as a cause of delay in diagnosis
Authors: Marucci G , Faustini-Fustini M , Righi A , Pasquini E , Frank G , Agati R , Foschini M P
Published: December 2008

Background:

Thyrotropin-secreting adenomas (TSH-As) are rare and, according to the World Health Organization criteria (WHO 2004), a significant proportion of them present features of atypical adenomas at the time of diagnosis.

Aims:

To determine the frequency of “atypical adenomas” and the significance of this definition as regards follow-up. To investigate their possible association with Hashimoto thyroiditis, leading to a delay in diagnosis.

Methods:

Case notes for patients who underwent trans-sphenoidal surgery between 1992 and 2006 were retrieved. Follow-up ranged from 6 to 180 months.

Results:

Ten cases of TSH-As out of 908 pituitary adenomas were selected. Before surgery, eight patients had hyperthyroidism, one was euthyroid and another one showed hypothyroidism associated with Hashimoto thyroiditis. All cases were macroadenomas; six of them were invasive. Three cases met the criteria for classification as atypical. In none of the cases, including the three “atypical adenomas”, were clinical or radiological signs of recurrence observed.

Conclusions:

The three cases with features of atypical adenoma did not recur or metastasise, suggesting that, at least in the present series, a strict relationship between the morphological criteria for diagnosing atypical adenomas and biological behaviour may be sometimes lacking. Furthermore, the casual association of TSH-As with Hashimoto thyroiditis may led to an adjunctive delay in diagnosis, because of low thyroid hormone levels.
Purpura hyperglobulinaemia in association with rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis
Authors: Wardle E N
Published: December 2008

Five patients with purpura hyperglobulinaemia are reviewed. One patient developed ulcerative colitis; female members of this patient’s family suffered from rheumatoid arthritis. The family showed immunoglobulin abnormalities.

Although the clinical picture of purpura hyperglobulinaemia and Henoch-Schönlein purpura can show some common features, the former may well be separated as a ‘disturbed-tolerance’ disease with a different prognosis.
Virological aspects of neurological disease
Authors: Waterson A P , Almeida June D
Published: December 2008

Viruses are now known to consist of only two major components; the nucleic acid which is essential for infectivity and an external covering to protect this. Visualization of this external shell by electron microscopy has revealed that viruses display distinctive arrangements of sub-units by which they can be both recognized and characterized. This has made it possible to classify viruses according to their structural and chemical features and such a classification has superseded earlier and essentially biological classifications without contradicting them.

The action of a virus upon a cell may take one of three forms. The virus in the process of replication may destroy the cell which it has infected (lytic action). A second possibility is that it may transform the cell to malignancy (oncogenic action). A third possibility is that the virus may remain latent within the cell for long periods with no obvious manifestations of its presence (symbiotic relationship). It is this last type of interaction between a virus and the host cell which appears to be of particular interest in the context of the nervous system.
Tracheal tumours
Authors: Bennetts Frank E
Published: December 2008

A brief review of the incidence, clinical features and diagnosis of tracheal tumours is made, and details of ten cases which recently occurred in South East England, are presented and discussed. Theories accounting for the relative rarity of malignant lesions at this site are considered.
Six generations of ill-used children in a Huntington’s pedigree
Authors: Oliver J E , Dewhurst K E
Published: December 2008

This Huntington’s pedigree of six generations illustrates the interaction of environmental and genetic factors causing prolonged suffering to children reared in such families.

This pedigree is representative of many others studied in depth involving at least 425 families. In general, children reared in these families later manifest subtle anti-social tendencies. Even when these children do not carry the specific gene themselves, the consequences of their upbringing results in psychiatric and anti-social sequelae in their adult lives. These are most serious where both parents are psychotic. In such cases the third generation is almost invariably crippled by alcoholism, chronic neurosis or psychopathy, initiating ‘problem families’ in subsequent generations.

Attention is drawn to recent legislation concerning family planning and therapeutic abortion which are still, unfortunately, the only means of preventing the devastating hereditary consequences of this disease.
Clinical features and detection of osteomalacia in the elderly
Authors: Rosin Arnold J
Published: December 2008

Fifteen elderly patients with osteomalacia were investigated in 2½ years in a geriatric unit. Although they all had bone pain the diagnosis in some cases was overshadowed by other common diseases with which they were referred to hospital, such as impaired balance or mental confusion. The bone pain had been present for weeks or months and was often attributed to arthritis. Biochemical investigations showed a low serum calcium and low or low-normal serum phosphate levels and a moderate to large increase in alkaline phosphatase above 15 KA units/100 ml. Only six patients had radiological signs of osteomalacia but all had histological evidence on bone biopsy.

Five subjects died within 3 weeks of admission from pneumonia or myocardial infarction. In the other ten, relief of pain occurred within 2-4 weeks of starting vitamin D, and bone tenderness disappeared after 2-3 months. The earliest biochemical sign of recovery was the rise in serum phosphate. Calciferol 1·25 mg daily (50,000 units of vitamin D) was given for 2-4 weeks or until there was a rise in the serum phosphate or calcium. One woman of 74 showed resistance to vitamin D associated with renal insufficiency.

Dietary history in seven patients revealed daily vitamin D intakes below 100 units. Four of the fifteen patients had a previous history of partial gastrectomy.

In addition to routine biochemical and X-ray investigations in elderly patients with generalized bone pain, trephine biopsy of the bone is a useful procedure for the diagnosis of osteomalacia.
Correlation of clinical, biochemical and functional parameters with histological lesions in secondary renal amyloidosis
Authors: Gulati P D , Mathur G P , Aurora A L , Vaishnava H
Published: December 2008

The records of fifty-five patients with secondary renal amyloidosis have been scrutinized in order to evaluate statistically the correlation of the various clinical features and biochemical alterations with the severity of histological lesions in this disease. An ‘amyloid factor’, calculated on the basis of the extent of glomerular amyloid deposition, was utilized for the grading of the latter.

A significant correlation of the histological grading was observed with the duration of predisposing illness (P <0·02), alteration of total serum protein (P <0·001) and functional impairment as determined by the creatinine clearance test (P <0·002). There was, however, no significant correlation between the extent of glomerular lesions and clinical severity, the duration of oedema, the degree of proteinuria and the levels of blood urea, serum albumin and serum cholesterol.
Medical library and information services
Authors: Tabor R B
Published: December 2008

The medical libraries in the Postgraduate Medical Education Centres which are now being built in many regions are generally of a simple pattern based on traditional library practices.

In view of the recent advances in information science it is suggested that a more radical approach should be made to the design of medical library and information centres.

The basic requirements for medical information in relation to education and medical practice are discussed together with recommendations for a regional and national network for the co-ordination of information-handling in the field of the health sciences.
Diseases of Jews
Authors: Krikler Dennis M
Published: December 2008

The relative social and genetic isolation of Jews from other communities, which was much more marked in the past than now, has led to the belief that they are unusually prone to a variety of illnesses. Until the last few decades assessments of the incidence of various diseases among them were usually based on impressions rather than planned surveys or careful analyses, and many misconceptions still persist. It is proposed to consider the present state of knowledge as well as to indicate the historical and social basis for any tendencies for Jews to suffer from, or perhaps to resist, some diseases. No attempt has been made to analyse every single report in which Jewish pre-disposition to various diseases is mentioned; attention will be focused on those conditions that have received greater attention or from which it is possible to draw meaningful conclusions.
The accessory artery in essential hypertension
Authors: Ooi Boon Seng , Yu Sheng Fong , Chen Beatrice T M , Khoo Oon Teik
Published: December 2008

Ninety hypertensive patients were investigated by intravenous pyelography, abdominal aortography, and renal biopsy. Accessory arteries were present in four of thirty-nine patients with secondary hypertension, whereas sixteen of fifty-one patients with primary hypertension exhibited this anomaly.

These differences in distribution are statistically significant, and the relationship between accessory arteries and primary hypertension is discussed.
Primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Tinckler Laurence
Published: December 2008

The literature on the subject of sclerosing cholangitis is reviewed.

The value of conserving the gall bladder, of operative cholangiography and of the administration of steroids in the management of these patients is emphasized.
Epidemiological features of ruptured dissecting and saccular aortic aneurysms
Authors: Talbot S , Langman M J S
Published: December 2008

An analysis based upon necropsy figures has been made of the frequency of deaths with dissecting aneurysms and ruptured fusiform or saccular aortic aneurysms. More deaths from these conditions were found at necropsies conducted on people dying suddenly in the community than in those dying in hospital.

Dissecting aneurysms were nearly all found to involve the thoracic segment of the aorta and were equally common in men and women whereas ruptured saccular and fusiform aneurysms were usually sited in the abdominal aorta and mainly occurred in men.

There was also a clear seasonal variation in death rates with ruptured and dissecting aneurysms. Death more commonly occurred with both types in the winter months.
The technique of coronary sinus catheterization in man
Authors: Livesley Brian
Published: December 2008

A simple method for catheterization of the coronary sinus in man has been described. It has been used successfully in more than ninety patients.
Facial myokymia: a clue to the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis
Authors: de Silva K L , Pearce John
Published: December 2008

Three patients with multiple sclerosis in whom facial myokymia occurred are described. The clinical and electromyographic features of this phenomenon are reviewed. The phenomenon is most frequently associated with multiple sclerosis, and when it is transient and unassociated with progressive facial paresis and other signs of a pontine tumour, is a strong indication of this condition.
Carcinoma of the pancreas and hyperosmolar coma
Authors: Cudworth Andrew G
Published: December 2008

A case of hyperosmolar coma with carcinoma of the pancreas is reported. There appears to be no previous report of this association.
Avascular necrosis of the head of the femur in a case of retroperitoneal fibrosis
Authors: Kamdar B A
Published: December 2008

A case of avascular necrosis of the head of the femur is reported. The patient is known to suffer from retroperitoneal fibrosis. The possibility of an association between these two conditions is discussed.
Congenital narcotic addiction
Authors: Lewis B W , Stothers J K
Published: December 2008

Attention is drawn to the probable increase in incidence of congenital narcotic addiction. Four instances of babies born to narcotic-addicted mothers are described. Three of the four infants developed symptoms, but all responded to treatment. Management with chlorpromazine alone is recommended. The social implications are briefly discussed.
Use of recombination in the production of influenza vaccine strains
Authors: McCahon D , Beare A S , Schild G C , Hall T S
Published: December 2008

Recombination between influenza A viruses as a method of producing strains suitable for use in vaccines is discussed with particular reference to a recombination system involving an attentuated laboratory strain A/PR8/34 (HoN1) and a recent isolate of the epidemic strain A/Hong Kong/68 (H3N2). A variety of properties of the viruses were shown to be segregated independently of one another during recombination. These properties included the envelope antigens (haemagglutinin and neuraminidase), growth capacity in the fertile egg and attenuation for man. Some of the recombinants were considered suitable for use in vaccines either inactivated (whole virus particles or subunits) or live. The application of this technique to future requirements for vaccine strains are discussed with particular reference to the safety aspect of using recombinants in live vaccines.
The effect of a low-calorie diet with and without fenfluramine, and fenfluramine alone on the glucose tolerance and insulin secretion of overweight non-diabetics
Authors: Dykes J Ranald W
Published: December 2008

Glucose tolerance and insulin secretion have been measured in six overweight non-diabetic subjects on first presentation and after 5 weeks of fenfluramine treatment without dietary restriction. There was a significant improvement in glucose tolerance and a marginally significant decrease in insulin secretion.

In another six overweight non-diabetic subjects, insulin secretion and glucose tolerance were measured on first presentation, after 10 weeks of low-calorie diet, and then after a further 10 weeks of the same low-calorie diet with the addition of fenfluramine. Diet alone did not produce any significant effect on glucose tolerance, but did bring about a significant decrease in insulin secretion. The addition of fenfluramine to the dietary therapy was associated with a marginally significant improvement in the glucose tolerance and a highly significant decrease in insulin secretion. This further decrease in insulin secretion was significantly greater than the decrease produced by diet alone in these six subjects.
Meningitis as the presenting symptom of pituitary adenomata
Authors: Lascelles R G , Bhalla K K , Tuck S J , Graves Paul S
Published: December 2008

We have recently seen two patients, both men in their forties, who presented with a clinical picture of meningitis which was later found to be secondary to infarction of an underlying chromophobe adenoma of the pituitary.
Aspects of human brucellosis
Authors: Mann P G , Richens Elizabeth R
Published: December 2008

Human brucellosis still presents difficulties in diagnosis and prevention. Townspeople may be infected by drinking raw milk while on holiday. Laboratory tests are still unsatisfactory as indicators of clinically active disease. High titre antibodies may be found without overt symptoms, particularly in persons occupationally exposed to repeated infection. In contrast, cases have been recorded in which no antibody appeared despite a positive blood culture. A preliminary study of leukocyte migration inhibition suggests that this may prove useful in detecting disease associated with low or absent antibodies, but is not likely to provide an infallible guide to clinical activity.
A double-blind clinical trial of griseofulvin in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon
Authors: Sabri S , Roberts V C , Higgins R F , Cotton L T , Williams D I , Wilson L C
Published: December 2008

Twenty-four patients with Raynaud's phenomenon were treated with griseofulvin and a placebo in a double-blind cross-over clinical trial. The results were assessed subjectively and plotted sequentially. The number of patients able to distinguish the active from the placebo treatment was statistically significant (P=0·05). There were indications that the response was dose dependent. Further studies are needed to establish whether griseofulvin offers useful clinical improvement in this condition.