bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Activities of β-Lactam Antibiotics and Quinolones for Invasive Streptococcus pneumoniae Isolates
Authors: Öncü Serkan , Punar Metin , Eraksoy Haluk
Published: June 2004

Background: Streptococcus pneumoniae is a leading pathogen causing pneumonia, meningitis, otitis media, bacteremia and sinusitis resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. We examined in vitro activities of five quinolones in comparison with other antibiotics against 85 invasive pneumococcal isolates. Methods: Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of penicillin G, cefuroxime, azithromycin, clarithromycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (SXT), ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, levofloxacin, trovafloxacin and gemifloxacin were determined using a broth microdilution method. Results: The overall rates of resistance to penicillin (46%), cefuroxime (20%), azithromycin (20%), clarithromycin (18%) and SXT (46%) were considerable. Among all of the isolates, 9 isolates (11%) were highly resistant (MIC ≧2 mg/l) and 30 isolates (35%) had intermediate resistance (MIC 0.12– 1.0 mg/l). Of the quinolones gemifloxacin and trovafloxacin had the highest activity. The penicillin resistance status of the isolates did not have any effect on the resistance pattern of new quinolones. Conclusion: The new quinolones show great potential in the treatment of invasive infections caused by both penicillin-susceptible and penicillin-resistant pneumococci.
Sustained Low Alanine Aminotransferase Levels Can Predict the Survival for 10 Years without Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development in Patients with Hepatitis C Virus-Associated Liver Cirrhosis of Child Stage A
Authors: Tarao Kazuo , Rino Yasushi , Ohkawa Shinichi , Endo Osamu , Miyakawa Kaoru , Tamai Setsuo , Hirokawa Satoru , Masaki Takahiro , Nagaoka Tadashi , Okamoto Naoyuki , Tanaka Katsuaki , Tarao Norio
Published: June 2004

An analysis was performed of the patients with hepatitis C virus-associated liver cirrhosis (HCV-LC) who never developed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for 10 years after the histological diagnosis of LC. Seventy-four consecutive HCV-LC patients of Child stage A were observed for >10 years prospectively for the development of HCC with frequent ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography. Of the 63 patients who fulfilled the study, 48 patients were treated and 15 were nontreated because of their stable state. They were subdivided into three groups according to their serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels: the high ALT group comprised of 23 patients whose annual average serum ALT level was persistently high (≧80 IU); the low ALT group comprised of 28 patients whose annual average serum ALT level was persistently low (<80 IU), and the unclassified ALT group comprised of 12 patients. In the low ALT group, as high as 71.4% of patients had never developed HCC for 10 years, in contrast to only 17.4% in the high ALT group (p < 0.001). In the 30 patients who never developed HCC for 10 years, 20 patients belonged to the low ALT group, in contrast to only 4 belonging to the high ALT group. Sustained low ALT levels were important to survive for 10 years without developing HCC in the HCV-LC patients of Child stage A.
Molecular Epidemiology of Porcine H3N2 Influenza A Viruses Isolated in Germany between 1982 and 2001
Authors: Schrader Christina , Süss Jochen
Published: June 2004

We examined influenza virus strains of the subtype H3N2 from outbreaks of respiratory diseases in swine herds in Germany. Four different clusters can be distinguished when comparing parts of the HA1 gene from porcine H3N2 isolates analyzed between 1982 and 2001. Comparison between these clusters reveals a bp homology of less than 90%. In contrast, the homology within the clusters is between 93.7 and 100%. Each of these clusters was confined to a specific time period. For the NA gene an additional cluster is formed by the porcine H1N2 isolate. The findings that different subtypes and drift variants are circulating in the German pig population explain the emergence of new influenza virus variants and the need for continued surveillance of swine.
Inhibition of Borna Disease Virus-Mediated Cell Fusion by Monoclonal Antibodies Directed against the Viral Glycoprotein
Authors: Furrer Esther , Planz Oliver , Stitz Lothar
Published: June 2004

Borna disease virus-infected Vero cells express on their surface the major viral glycoprotein which mediates cell fusion after low pH treatment. This fusion event can be inhibited by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) generated from chronically BDV-infected rats boosted with a recombinant vaccinia virus expressing the gp94 glycoprotein of BDV. Analysis of mAbs suggests specificity for the 43-kD C-terminal furin cleavage product of gp94 and provides evidence for the recognition of a conformational epitope. The results confirm and extend earlier findings on the presence of the gp43 protein on the surface of BDV-infected cells and its specific role in cell fusion.
Stellenwert des Nachweises von humanem Papillomvirus in der Früherkennung des Zervixkarzinoms
Authors: Fehr Mathias K. , Welti Stéphane
Published: June 2004

In beinahe allen Zervixkarzinomen kann einer der 18 onkogenen Typen der humanen Papillomviren (HPV) nachgewiesen werden. Es wird geschätzt, dass sich 80% aller Frauen im Laufe ihres Lebens mit diesen Viren infizieren, wobei die Prävalenz mit zunehmendem Alter abnimmt. Das Risiko, eine Krebsvorstufe zu entwickeln, hängt ab vom HPV-Typ, von der Dauer der Infektion und von der Viruslast. Aufgrund der hohen Prävalenz der HPV-Infektion ist ein HPV-Screening bei jungen Frauen sinnlos. Bei älteren Frauen ist der HPV-Test dann sinnvoll, wenn aufgrund seines hohen negativen Voraussagewertes das Screening-Intervall bei den HPV-negativen Frauen mit normaler Zytologie auf 3–5 Jahre verlängert wird. Der HPV-Test ist in der Triage grenzwertiger Zytologien (ASC-US) anerkannt, wenn keine unmittelbare Kolposkopie durchgeführt wird und als Konsequenz des Tests die HPV-negativen Patientinnen erst in 12 Monaten nachkontrolliert werden. Bei einem negativen HPV-Test mit normaler Zytologie 6 Monate nach Konisation kann aufgrund des hohen negativen Voraussagewertes die nächste Kontrolle erst in 12 Monaten erfolgen. Bei atypischen glandulären Zellen im Krebsabstrich (AGC-NOS) kann der HPV-Test die Patientinnen identifizieren, welche aggressiv abgeklärt werden sollten. Immunsupprimierten Patientinnen mit persistierend suspekter Zytologie kann bei nichtonkogenem HPV-Infekt und unauffälliger Kolposkopie die Konisation erspart werden.
Molekulare Diagnostik der zervikalen Neoplasie: Zukunft oder Irrweg?
Authors: Schneider Volker
Published: June 2004

Trotz der unbestreitbaren Erfolge der Krebsvorsorge zur Vermeidung des Zervixkarzinoms mittels zytologischem Abstrich bestehen Bereiche mit erkennbarem Handlungsbedarf. So bedeutet die operative Entfernung aller CIN 3 eine erhebliche Übertherapie, da nur eine Minderzahl dieser Läsionen letztlich invasiv werden. Aufgrund erheblicher Erkenntnisgewinne über die zervikale Karzinogenese in den letzten Jahren ergeben sich erstmals Ansatzpunkte für eine mögliche Prognoseerfassung auf individueller Basis. Die Infektion mit HPV vom Hochrisikotyp ist inzwischen als notwendige Ursache des Zervixkarzinoms anerkannt. Ein entscheidender Schritt dieser virusinduzierten Neoplasie ist die Dysregulation des Zellzyklus, der über die Überexpression der viralen Onkogene E6 und E7 läuft. Der direkte Nachweis dieser Onkogene mittels eines mRNS-Tests oder die Erfassung eines der Zellzyklusproteine als Substitutionsmarker kann unter Umständen bei der Bestimmung des invasiven Potentials einer Läsion dienlich sein. Erste Ergebnisse liegen für den Marker p16 vor. Für weitere Biomarker laufen derzeit Untersuchungen. Die Aufklärung weiterer Schritte der molekularen Karzinogenese des Zervixkarzinoms und seiner Vorstufen wird unter Umständen in der Zukunft weitere diagnostische und therapeutische Fortschritte ermöglichen.
Reappraisal of in utero Stem Cell Transplantation Based on Long-Term Results
Authors: Touraine Jean-Louis , Raudrant Daniel , Golfier François , Rebaud Albert , Sembeil Rachel , Roncarolo Maria-Grazia , Bacchetta Rosa , D’Oiron Roseline , Lambert Thierry , Gebuhrer Lucette
Published: June 2004

The therapeutic field of in utero transplantation of stem cells, into human fetuses, has developed since 1988 with the hope of improved probability of engraftment and tolerance, due to immune immaturity of the host. Fifteen years later, it is possible to evaluate the results that we and others have obtained in the treatment of several fetal diseases. Seven fetal patients have been treated in Lyon: In 2 cases, pregnancy termination was induced by the in utero injection; in the 5 other cases, engraftment was obtained and repeatedly documented with presence of donor HLA antigens and/or Y chromosome in recipients. In the 2 patients with combined immunodeficiency disease, a sustained reconstitution of immunity was obtained as a result of the transplant but other complications occurred thereafter. In patients with thalassemia major, Niemann-Pick disease or hemophilia, a very partial and very transitory benefit was only obtained. Approximately 33 other patients with immunodeficiencies, hemoglobinopathies or inborn errors of metabolism have been treated worldwide, over the last 13 years, with a comparable method, using parental or fetal stem cells transplanted in utero. Successful treatment has usually been recorded in immunodeficiencies, and insufficient results have been obtained in the other cases. This form of treatment can therefore be recommended after prenatal diagnosis of combined immunodeficiency but additional research is required to improve the degree of engraftment, the lack of resistance of the host and the ‘space’ available for hematopoiesis in the other conditions.
Sonographic Prognostic Factors in Prenatal Diagnosis of SCT
Authors: Neubert S. , Trautmann K. , Tanner B. , Steiner E. , Linke F. , Bahlmann F.
Published: June 2004

Objective: A subset of fetuses with sacrococcygeal teratomas (SCT) develops hydrops caused by high-output heart failure. Identification of fetuses at risk for hydrops is important because surgical intervention may reverse the pathophysiology of the disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate sonographic prognostic factors regarding tumor morphology and vascularity associated with the development of hydrops in utero. Methods: Over a 10-year period, we identified 7 fetuses with SCT diagnosed antenatally and managed at the University of Mainz. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of mothers and infants and recorded data on prenatal diagnosis, tumor size and localization, perinatal management, neonatal care, and fetal outcome. Results: The diagnosis of SCT was made in all cases by ultrasound. The median gestational age at the time of initial diagnosis was 23 weeks. In 3 cases, signs of fetal heart failure were detected by ultrasound. Pathological blood flow in the venous system was further noted in 2 cases. One fetus developed hydrops. The mean gestational age at delivery was 35 weeks, depending on the presence or absence of maternal or fetal complications. Six infants were delivered by cesarean section, and 1 by vaginal delivery. After fetal stabilization, surgery was performed in 5 of 7 cases. Inadequate ventilation secondary to prematurity was a contributing factor to death in 1 fetus. One fetal intrauterine death occurred at 27 weeks of gestation. Conclusion: Pregnancies with antenatally diagnosed fetal SCT necessitate frequent monitoring to ensure the detection of fetal/maternal complications by ultrasound and Doppler ultrasound. The most important prognostic criteria were cardiomegaly, fetal hydrops, and increased preload indexes of the fetal venous system as sign of fetal heart failure. Many studies show that the occurrence of pulsations in the umbilical vein of a hydropic fetus correlates with a poor fetal outcome. The decision on the optimal time of delivery should therefore be made by a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
Fetal Akinesia Deformation SequenceP resenting with Increased Nuchal Translucency in the First Trimester of Pregnancy
Authors: Makrydimas George , Sotiriadis Alexandros , Papapanagiotou George , Tsopelas Antonios , Lolis Dimitrios
Published: June 2004

Prenatal sonographic diagnosis of fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS) is usually achieved during the second and third trimester of pregnancy and relies on the demonstration of contractures of multiple joints, paucity of fetal movements and nuchal edema or generalized hydrops. We present the early diagnosis of FADS in a 13-week fetus presenting with nuchal translucency thickness (NT) of 5.1 mm, bilateral talipes and fixed flexion deformity of the fingers and wrists. We also review cases of this condition diagnosed during the first trimester and discuss the role of increased NT in the early diagnosis of FADS even in cases without previous history of an affected child.
Chromosome condensation in mitosis and meiosis of rye (Secale cereale L.)
Authors: Zoller J.F. , Herrmann R.G. , Wanner G.
Published: June 2004

Structural investigation and morphometry of meiotic chromosomes by scanning electron microscopy (in comparison to light microscopy) of all stages of condensation of meiosis I + II show remarkable differences during chromosome condensation in mitosis and meiosis I of rye (Secale cereale) with respect to initiation, mode and degree of condensation. Mitotic chromosomes condense in a linear fashion, shorten in length and increase moderately in diameter. In contrast, in meiosis I, condensation of chromosomes in length and diameter is a sigmoidal process with a retardation in zygotene and pachytene and an acceleration from diplotene to diakinesis. The basic structural components of mitotic chromosomes of rye are “parallel fibers” and “chromomeres” which become highly compacted in metaphase. Although chromosome architecture in early prophase of meiosis seems similar to mitosis in principle, there is no equivalent stage during transition to metaphase I when chromosomes condense to a much higher degree and show a characteristic “smooth” surface. No indication was found for helical winding of chromosomes either in mitosis or in meiosis. Based on measurements, we propose a mechanism for chromosome dynamics in mitosis and meiosis, which involves three individual processes: (i) aggregation of chromatin subdomains into a chromosome filament, (ii) condensation in length, which involves a progressive increase in diameter and (iii) separation of chromatids.
Host Defense Functions of Pulmonary Surfactant
Authors: Wright Jo Rae
Published: June 2004

Surfactant is a complex of lipids and proteins that reduces surface tension at the air/liquid interface of the lung and regulates immune cell function. Surfactant immune function is primarily attributed to two proteins: SP-A and SP-D. SP-A and SP-D are members of a protein family known as ‘collectins’, which are distinguished by their N-terminal collagen-like region and their C-terminal lectin domain. The lectin domain binds preferentially to sugars on the surface of pathogens and thereby opsonizes them for uptake by phagocytes. The collectins also modulate the functions of cells of the adaptive immune network including dendritic cells and T lymphocytes. In addition, recent studies show that bacterial products degrade surfactant. In summary, surfactant plays an important role in lung host defense. Surfactant degradation or inactivation may contribute to enhanced susceptibility to lung inflammation and infection.
Optimal Oxygen Saturation for Preterm Babies
Authors: Tin Win
Published: June 2004

Oxygen is the most commonly used ‘drug’ in neonatal units as an integral part of respiratory support. It has also been known for half of the century that it is easy to damage the eyes of preterm infants by giving too much oxygen especially in the first few weeks of life. Despite this knowledge there is still a wide variation in approaches to oxygen monitoring within neonatal units. A randomized controlled trial conducted more than 50 years ago first made clinicians aware of ‘oxygen toxicity’ in preterm infants, but no other controlled trial has ever been conducted since to clarify how much oxygen infants really need, or what oxygen saturation level is optimal in caring these preterm babies. Perhaps time has come for clinicians to resolve this ‘uncertainty’ by well-designed randomized trials.
SARS in Newborns and Children
Authors: Ng Pak C. , Leung Chi W. , Chiu Wah K. , Wong Shell F. , Hon Ellis K.L.
Published: June 2004

The severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a highly contagious infection caused by a newly discovered strain of coronavirus (SARS-CoV). Infants born to pregnant women with SARS did not appear to acquire the infection through vertical transmission. Some newborn infants, however, developed severe intrauterine growth retardation and life-threatening gastrointestinal complications. It is now known that the clinical course and prognosis are different between paediatric and adult SARS patients. Young children (<12 years), in general, run a less aggressive clinical course than do teenage and adult patients. Thus far, no fatalities have been reported in the paediatric age group (≤18 years). This review describes the current understanding of the clinical manifestations, diagnostic tests, immunological profiles, patient management and outcomes of SARS-CoV infection in the paediatric population.
Cochlear Implant Candidacy and Surgical Considerations
Authors: Cohen Noel L.
Published: June 2004

Numerous changes continue to occur in regard to cochlear implant candidacy. In general, these have been accompanied by concomitant and satisfactory changes in surgical techniques. Together, this has advanced the utility and safety of cochlear implantation. Most devices are now approved for use in patients with severe to profound rather the prior requirement of a bilateral profound loss. In addition, studies have begun utilizing short electrode arrays for shallow insertion in patients with considerable low frequency residual hearing. This technique will allow the recipient to continue to use acoustically amplified hearing for the low frequencies simultaneously with a cochlear implant for the high frequencies. New hardware, such as the behind-the-ear speech processors, require modification of existing implant surgery. Similarly, the new perimodiolar electrodes require special insertion techniques. Bilateral implantation clearly requires modification of the surgical techniques used for unilateral implantation. The surgery remains mostly the same, but takes almost twice as long, and requires some modification since at a certain point, when the first device is in contact with the body, the monopolar cautery may no longer be used. Research has already begun on the development of the totally implantable cochlear implant (TICI). This will clearly require a modification of the surgical technique currently used for the present semi-implantable devices. In addition to surgically burying the components of the present cochlear implant, we will also have to develop techniques for implanting a rechargeable power supply and a microphone for the TICI. The latter will be a challenge, since it must be placed where it is capable of great sensitivity, yet not exposed to interference or the risk of extrusion. The advances in design of, and indications for, cochlear implants have been matched by improvements in surgical techniques and decrease in complications. The resulting improvements in safety and efficacy have further encouraged the use of these devices. We anticipate further changes in the foreseeable future, for which there will likely be surgical problems to solve.
Analysis of the cytogenetic stability of the human embryonal kidney cell line 293 by cytogenetic and STR profiling approaches
Authors: Bylund L. , Kytölä S. , Lui W.-O. , Larsson C. , Weber G.
Published: June 2004

We have characterized the cytogenetic alterations of the human embyronal cell line 293 by spectral karyotyping and G-banding analysis. To investigate its genomic stability, we compared the karyotypes of 293 and its daughter line EcR-293. Genotype profiling through short tandem repeats complemented the analysis. While displaying almost identical STR profiles and thus verifying their origin and their close relation, the two lines were remarkably different in their number of chromosomes and setup of aberrant chromosomes. However, the cell lines retained a stable karyotype in long term culture. The establishment of subclones from EcR-293, expressing inducible lacZ or MEN1 transgenes, only added minor changes to the karyotype. Our study shows that the cytogenetic constitution of a clonal cell line of the 293 origin appears to be sufficiently stable. However, care should be taken when comparing the properties of independent 293 lineages, since clonal variations might be substantial.
Evolution of unbalanced gain of distal chromosome 2p in neuroblastoma
Authors: Stallings R.L. , Carty P. , McArdle L. , Mullarkey M. , McDermott M. , O’Meara A. , Ryan E. , Catchpoole D. , Breatnach F.
Published: June 2004

Neuroblastoma, one of the most common tumors of childhood, presents at diagnosis with a vast number of recurrent chromosomal imbalances that include hyperdiploidy for whole chromosomes, partial loss of 1p, 3p, 4p, 11q, 14q, partial gain of 1q, 7q, 17q and amplification of MYCN. These abnormalities are nonrandomly distributed in neuroblastoma as loss of 3p and 11q rarely occur in MYCN amplified neuroblastomas. Here, we report on a patient who had a non-MYCN amplified 3p–/11q– neuroblastoma at diagnosis who subsequently developed a high level of MYCN amplification in bone marrow metastases 41 months after induction of complete remission. The tumor at diagnosis had low level unbalanced gain of distal 2p. In order to assess the frequency of low level gain of distal 2p in neuroblastoma, we examined the comparative genomic hybridization results from 60 neuroblastomas. Among non-MYCN amplified neuroblastomas, 8/45 (18%) had low level gain of distal 2p. Low level gain for a segment of 2p (i.e. a region larger than the 2p23→p24 undergoing amplification) was also detected in five of the 15 tumors that had high level MYCN amplification. The possibility that low level gain of distal 2p is a risk factor for high level MYCN amplification is discussed.
Cloning and characterization of an inversion breakpoint at 6q23.3 suggests a role for Map7 in sacral dysgenesis
Authors: Sood R. , Bader P.I. , Speer M.C. , Edwards Y.H. , Eddings E.M. , Blair R.T. , Hu P. , Faruque M.U. , Robbins C.M. , Zhang H. , Leuders J. , Morrison K. , Thompson D. , Schwartzberg P.L. , Meltzer P.S. , Trent J.M.
Published: June 2004

Here we report on a male patient with sacral dysgenesis (SD) and constitutional pericentric inversion of chromosome 6 (p11.2;q23.3). SD is a heterogeneous group of congenital anomalies with complex genetic etiology. Previously, a patient with sacral abnormalities and an interstitial deletion of 6q23→q25 region has been described. We speculated that a susceptibility gene for SD lies in 6q23.3 region (disrupted in both patients), and therefore, cloning of the breakpoint in our patient would lead to the identification of the disrupted gene. We performed FISH analysis followed by Southern blot analysis and inverse PCR to clone the breakpoint. The 6p11.2 breakpoint mapped very close to the centromere, and the 6q23.3 breakpoint localized in the ninth intron of the MAP7 gene. We then evaluated the involvement of MAP7 in SD by further screening of the gene in several patients with a similar phenotype. Two nucleotide changes causing Ile257Asn and Glu571Ala substitutions in the protein, both affecting amino acid residues conserved in the mouse homolog, were identified in two patients. Both changes are either very rare polymorphisms or true mutations, since they were not detected in 167 normal individuals nor found in the SNP database. Therefore, our study suggests MAP7 as a candidate gene for SD. However, we were unable to detect any sacral defects in the MAP7 knockout mice.
Cloning and characterization of the mouse Arht2 gene which encodes a putative atypical GTPase
Authors: Shan Y. , Hexige S. , Guo Z. , Wan B. , Chen K. , Chen X. , Ma L. , Huang C. , Zhao S. , Yu L.
Published: June 2004

ARHT is a new subgroup of the Rho family identified recently, which consists of two Rho-like genes, Arht1 and Arht2. ARHT may be involved in mitochondrial homeostasis and apoptosis. Constitutively active mutants of ARHT1 induced an aggregation of the mitochondrial network and resulted in an increased apoptotic rate of the cells. Here we report the molecular cloning and characterization of a novel mouse cDNA encoding a putative atypical GTPase protein, Arht2. Mouse Arht2 consists of 19 exons and has been mapped to mouse chromosome 17A3.3. Both human and mouse Arht2 genes are ubiquitously expressed in adult tissues. The results of RT-PCR experiments indicated that the Arht2 gene is expressed in all stages of mouse testis and reached the adult level of transcription at postnatal day 30. In situ hybridization revealed strong hybridization signals of Arht2 in residual bodies. In the mouse testis, Arht2 may be involved in the differentiation of testis and spermiogenesis. The molecular characterization of the mouse Arht2 gene may provide a clue for functional studies of the human ARHT genes.
A comparative karyological study of the blue-breasted quail (Coturnix chinensis, Phasianidae) and California quail (Callipepla californica, Odontophoridae)
Authors: Shibusawa M. , Nishida-Umehara C. , Tsudzuki M. , Masabanda J. , Griffin D.K. , Matsuda Y.
Published: June 2004

We conducted comparative chromosome painting and chromosome mapping with chicken DNA probes against the blue-breasted quail (Coturnix chinensis, CCH) and California quail (Callipepla californica, CCA), which are classified into the Old World quail and the New World quail, respectively. Each chicken probe of chromosomes 1–9 and Z painted a pair of chromosomes in the blue-breasted quail. In California quail, chicken chromosome 2 probe painted chromosomes 3 and 6, and chicken chromosome 4 probe painted chromosomes 4 and a pair of microchromosomes. Comparison of the cytogenetic maps of the two quail species with those of chicken and Japanese quail revealed that there are several intrachromosomal rearrangements, pericentric and/or paracentric inversions, in chromosomes 1, 2 and 4 between chicken and the Old World quail. In addition, a pericentric inversion was found in chromosome 8 between chicken and the three quail species. Ordering of the Z-linked DNA clones revealed the presence of multiple rearrangements in the Z chromosomes of the three quail species. Comparing these results with the molecular phylogeny of Galliformes species, it was also cytogenetically supported that the New World quail is classified into a different clade from the lineage containing chicken and the Old World quail.
Karyotypic evolution in the Galliformes: An examination of the process of karyotypic evolution by comparison of the molecular cytogenetic findings with the molecular phylogeny
Authors: Shibusawa M. , Nishibori M. , Nishida-Umehara C. , Tsudzuki M. , Masabanda J. , Griffin D.K. , Matsuda Y.
Published: June 2004

To define the process of karyotypic evolution in the Galliformes on a molecular basis, we conducted genome-wide comparative chromosome painting for eight species, i.e. silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera), Lady Amherst’s pheasant (Chrysolophus amherstiae), ring-necked pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), Western capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus), Chinese bamboo-partridge (Bambusicola thoracica) and common peafowl (Pavo cristatus) of the Phasianidae, and plain chachalaca (Ortalis vetula) of the Cracidae, with chicken DNA probes of chromosomes 1–9 and Z. Including our previous data from five other species, chicken (Gallus gallus), Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) and blue-breasted quail (Coturnix chinensis) of the Phasianidae, guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) of the Numididae and California quail (Callipepla californica) of the Odontophoridae, we represented the evolutionary changes of karyotypes in the 13 species of the Galliformes. In addition, we compared the cytogenetic data with the molecular phylogeny of the 13 species constructed with the nucleotide sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene, and discussed the process of karyotypic evolution in the Galliformes. Comparative chromosome painting confirmed the previous data on chromosome rearrangements obtained by G-banding analysis, and identified several novel chromosome rearrangements. The process of the evolutionary changes of macrochromosomes in the 13 species was in good accordance with the molecular phylogeny, and the ancestral karyotype of the Galliformes is represented.
Molecular characterization of porcine hyaluronidase genes 1, 2, and 3 clustered on SSC13q21
Authors: Gatphayak K. , Knorr C. , Beck J. , Brenig B.
Published: June 2004

Hyaluronidase genes (HYAL) encode hyaluronidase enzymes required for hyaluronan degradation. Both in humans and in mouse, clustered hyaluronidase genes have been identified. Here, the porcine hyaluronidase cluster consisting of genes HYAL1, HYAL2 and HYAL3 was characterized. The porcine cDNA sequences and proteins share homologies to human orthologs of 85 and 81% for HYAL1, 87 and 89% for HYAL2 and 86 and 83% for HYAL3, respectively. The porcine hyaluronidase proteins approximately share a 40% homology with each other. Furthermore, genes FUS1 and FUS2 were found within this cluster, which was assigned to SSC13q21. A total of seven SNPs were detected in the genes (four in HYAL1, two in HYAL2 and one in HYAL3). Three of the four SNPs in HYAL1 led to amino acid exchanges (C622G → Asp24 to Glu; C633T → Pro28 to Leu, and G1298T → Ala250 to Ser). The amino acid replacements induce putative changes in the extended strand at Asp24, in the extended strand and the random coil at Pro28, and finally in the random coil and the alpha helix at Ala250. Frequency estimations for four SNPs located in genes HYAL1 and HYAL3 using animals (n = 295) of nine European and six Chinese pig breeds indicated several significant deviations. For example, there were no significant differences in allele frequencies between pigs representing breeds Hampshire and Jiangquhai at SNP C633T (HYAL1), but between Hampshire respectively Jiangquhai animals and Rongchang pigs. Analysis of the same breeds at SNP C588T (HYAL3) indicates significant differences between Hampshire and Jiangquhai respectively Rongchang, but not between Jiangquhai and Rongchang. The breed Göttingen Minipig displayed significant differences concerning two SNPs with respect to the other European pig breeds tested. For all three hyaluronidase genes, N-glycosylation sites are typical. For HYAL2 the lysosomal character was proven. The catalytic site responsible for HAase activity is conserved in the three enzymes. Expression of hyaluronidases was determined by RT-PCR and quantitative PCR. Broad gene expression was observed in different tissues for the three genes, respectively.
Chromosomal Translocation t(10;11)(q26;q13) in a Woman with Combined Pituitary Hormone Deficiency
Authors: Laml Thomas , Preyer Oliver , Umek Wolfgang , Huber Johannes , Hengstschläger Markus
Published: June 2004

We describe the case of a girl with combined pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD) carrying a balanced chromosomal translocation t(10;11)(q26;q13) with paternal transmission. Her father, with no apparent physical abnormalities, had the karyotype: 46, XY, t(10;11)(q26;q13). CPHD denotes impaired production of growth hormone (GH) and one or more of the other five anterior pituitary-derived hormones. Pit-1 gene and Prop-1 gene mutations and deletions have been reported being responsible for CPHD. Although our patient had a t(10;11) (q26q13) paternal chromosomal translocation, the phenotype was similar to that found in humans with different Pit-1 or Prop-1 gene alterations. Interestingly, the patient’s father had the same translocation without phenotypic effects. In conclusion, we describe panhypopituitarism in a woman with a paternally transmitted translation, which appears to be phenotypically expressed only in females.
Adenosine Deaminase Activity and Its Isoenzyme Pattern in Women with Recurrent Spontaneous Abortions
Authors: Hitoglou Soultana , Zournatzi Vasiliki , Gougoustamou Despina , Hatzistilianou Maria , Tzafettas John
Published: June 2004

Normal pregnancy is characterized by suppressed cell-mediated immunity. Adenosine deaminase (ADA) is a purine metabolic enzyme enriched in trophoblast cells of the placenta. It is an early marker of trophoblast cell differentiation. Also, the activation of ADA gene expression in the placenta is crucial and essential for proper fetal development. The activity of ADA shows changes in diseases characterized by the alteration of cell-mediated immunity. The purpose of this study was to assess the possible role of the alteration of cell-mediated immunity in women with recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA) as a cause of changes in tADA activity, and also to evaluate the extent of the contribution of ADA1 and ADA2 to changes of tADA activity in serum and peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs). We measured in serum and in PBLs activities of tADA, ADA1 and ADA2 of 25 married women with RSA (group A) and of 28 healthy non-pregnant women (group B). According to our results in women with RSA, mean serum tADA, ADA1 and ADA2 activities were significantly higher than those of non-pregnant women (p < 0.001, p < 0.05 and p < 0.05 respectively). In women with RSA, mean PBLs tADA, ADA1 and ADA2 activities were significantly higher than those of non-pregnant women (p < 0.001, p < 0.05 and p < 0.05 respectively). The findings of this study show a marked increase of serum and PBLs ADA activities, which is derived from an increase of ADA2 and ADA1 activity in women with RSA. These changes reflect cell-mediated immunological changes.
MR and Ultrasound Imaging of Floating Globules in Mature Ovarian Cystic Teratoma
Authors: Umesaki Naohiko , Nagamatsu Akira , Yada Chie , Tanaka Tetsuji
Published: June 2004

A rarely reported case of cystic teratoma with floating globules or fat balls is presented. Comparative imaging investigations of the floating globules in an ovarian cystic teratoma were performed using magnetic resonance and two- and three-dimensional ultrasound. Ultrasound imaging easily detected the floating globules, especially the 3-dimensional features showed almost the same findings that were observed macroscopically after surgery. Magnetic resonance thus clearly revealed the character of floating globules.
Hyperhomocyst(e)inemia and Elevated Soluble Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 Concentrations Are Associated with an Increased Risk of Preeclampsia
Authors: Vadachkoria Surab , Sanchez Sixto E. , Qiu Chunfang , Muy-Rivera Martin , Malinow M. Rene , Williams Michelle A.
Published: June 2004

Hyperhomocyst(e)inemia (HHcy) is a risk factor of endothelial dysfunction and preeclampsia. Soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), a specific marker of endothelial dysfunction, is elevated in preeclampsia. Few have assessed the joint contribution of these biomarkers in predicting preeclampsia. We assessed the extent to which HHcy and elevated sVCAM-1 are independently and jointly associated with preeclampsia. We conducted a case-control analysis of 100 preeclampsia cases and 100 controls to test our study hypothesis. Maternal plasma was collected before labor onset. Total plasma homocysteine (tHcy) was measured using high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection procedures. Plasma sVCAM-1 was determined using ELISA. Using the distribution of each analyte among controls, elevated tHcy was defined as plasma tHcy >6.6 µmol/l and elevated sVCAM-1 was defined as plasma concentrations >845 ng/ml (i.e., values above the median). Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Compared with women without elevated tHcy and without elevated sVCAM-1 (the referent group), those with elevated sVCAM-1 alone had a 4.1-fold increased risk of preeclampsia (95% CI 1.2–13.8). The OR for women with elevated tHcy alone was 2.2 (95% CI 0.6–7.9). The OR for women with elevated tHcy and sVCAM-1 was 13.2 (95% CI 4.1–42.2). Elevated tHcy and sVCAM-1 together were strongly associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia. Larger, prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings and to determine the extent to which elevated tHcy and sVCAM-1 together in early pregnancy are predictive of preeclampsia risk.
Biological Role of Pituitary Estrogen Receptors ERα and ERβ on Progesterone Receptor Expression and Action and on Gonadotropin and Prolactin Secretion in the Rat
Authors: Sánchez-Criado José E. , Martín de las Mulas Juana , Bellido Carmina , Tena-Sempere Manuel , Aguilar Rafaela , Blanco Alfonso
Published: June 2004

Estrogen (E) is a key regulator of the synthesis and secretion of pituitary reproductive hormones [luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin (PRL)]. Until recently, it was thought that all biological actions of E at the pituitary were manifested through a single E receptor (R). The pituitary, like many other reproductive tissues, expresses two isoforms of ER, α and β, both activated by E. The relative contribution of α and β forms in E regulatory actions is largely unknown. To this end, 2-week-old ovariectomized (OVX) rats were injected over 3 days with 25 µg estradiol benzoate (EB), 1.5 mg of propylpyrazole triol (PPT), a selective ERα agonist, 1.5 mg of the selective ERβ agonist diarylpropionitrile (DPN) or a combination of PPT and DPN. Controls were injected with 0.2 ml oil. At 10:00 h on the day after treatment, trunk blood was collected to determine serum concentration of LH, FSH and PRL, and pituitaries were processed for RT-PCR analysis of total (A+B) progesterone receptor (PR) mRNA, immunocytochemistry of PR and incubation. Pituitaries from each of the five groups were incubated in DMEM, with or without 20 nM of the antiprogestin at the receptor ZK299, for 3 h with: 10–8M 17β-estradiol, 10–6M PPT, 10–6M DPN, PPT+DPN or medium alone, respectively, to determine LH, FSH and PRL secretion, and, when challenged with two pulses of 15 min 1 h apart of 10–8M gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) (GnRH self-priming). EB, PPT and PPT+DPN treatments increased PR mRNA and the number and intensity of nuclei immunoreactive (IR) for PR in gonadotropes, and reduced the number of gonadectomy cells. Like E, PPT alone or in combination with DPN stimulated PRL secretion, increased basal and GnRH-stimulated LH and FSH secretion and induced GnRH self-priming in the absence of ZK299 in the incubation medium. DPN alone had only a significant E-like effect on gonadectomy cells and IR-PR, but not on GnRH self-priming. In addition, while DPN lacked an agonistic action on peripheral tissue and serum pituitary reproductive hormones concentration, EB, PPT and PPT+DPN induced similar uterine ballooning and vaginal cornification, and increased and decreased, respectively, serum concentrations of PRL and gonadotropins. Overall, these results indicate that most of these E actions on the pituitary are exerted through the ERα isoform. The finding that activation of ERβ with its selective DPN agonist had an estrogenic effect on IR-PR nuclei, but not on GnRH self-priming, a characteristic ERα-mediated effect of E, suggests that the biological action of E at the pituitary may involve both isoforms of ER.
Effects of Postnatal Dexamethasone on Oxygen Toxicity in Neonatal Rats
Authors: Dallas Dara Varga , Keeney Susan E. , Mathews Mary J. , Schmalstieg Frank C.
Published: June 2004

We investigated the effect of timing of early postnatal dexamethasone on survival of hyperoxia-exposed neonatal rats. Pups <24 h old were treated with a tapering course of dexamethasone or saline beginning either prior to exposure (day 0), or after 2, 4, or 6 days of ≧98% O2 (n = 11–14) or air (n = 8–11). Exposures were continued for 14 days. By day 14, day 0 pups had poor survival regardless of the exposure (14% in O2, 13% in air). Survival of pups treated with dexamethasone after 2, 4 and 6 days of O2 exposure was significantly higher at 14 days (50, 86 and 79%, respectively) compared to saline O2 controls (9%, p < 0.001 for each). Pulmonary biochemical analyses were conducted after exposure for 7 days in rat pups treated with dexamethasone or saline beginning after 4 days of exposure to air or O2 (n = 11–12 for each group). While pups treated with dexamethasone showed greatly improved survival compared to O2 controls, there was no decrease in neutrophil influx into the lung as measured by lung myeloperoxidase and neutrophil counts in histologic specimens and lavage fluid. Catalase, glutathione peroxidase, total and manganese superoxide dismutase activities as well as manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) mRNA expression were elevated in both O2 groups after 7 days compared to the air groups (p < 0.05) and MnSOD mRNA expression was elevated in the O2/dexamethasone group, but there were no differences between dexamethasone and saline groups in O2. Thus, this study indicates that the timing of dexamethasone administration is crucial. Mechanisms other than increases in antioxidant enzymes or decreases in lung neutrophils underlie the ability of dexamethasone to improve survival of these neonatal rats.
Reduced Expression of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Related Protein in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Implications for Cancer Growth
Authors: Moon Woo Sung , Chang Kenneth J. , Majumdar Adhip P.N. , Tarnawski Andrzej S.
Published: June 2004

Background/Aims: The mitogenic signaling pathway of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is activated in a variety of cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The recently cloned EGFR-related protein (ERRP) has been proposed to be a negative regulator of EGFR. The expression of ERRP in non-malignant liver cells and in HCC, and its relation to cell proliferation, have not been examined. Methods: Paraffin sections of formalin-fixed HCC specimens of 51 HCCs and 10 normal liver specimens were immunostained with anti-ERRP and anti-p53 antibodies. To determine the relationship between ERRP expression and cell proliferation, we performed double staining for ERRP and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in the same HCC specimens. Results: In normal liver, ERRP was expressed in 100% of specimens, while in non-malignant liver tissue from HCC, ERRP expression was present in 50% of the specimens (p < 0.001). In contrast, ERRP expression was present only in 14% of the HCC specimens. The expression of ERRP in cancer cells was inversely correlated with proliferative activity and tumor size (p < 0.001, p < 0.05, respectively). No significant correlation was found between p53 expression and the expression of ERRP. Conclusions: Human HCC, which has been shown to be associated with increased activation of EGFR, exhibits a substantial reduction in ERRP expression. The inverse relationship between ERRP expression, proliferative activity of tumor cells and tumor size suggests that in some HCC, ERRP is a negative regulator of HCC growth.
Lactobacillus acidophilus Protects Tight Junctions from Aspirin Damage in HT-29 Cells
Authors: Montalto Massimo , Maggiano Nicola , Ricci Riccardo , Curigliano Valentina , Santoro Luca , Di Nicuolo Fiorella , Vecchio Fabio Maria , Gasbarrini Antonio , Gasbarrini Giovanni
Published: June 2004

Background/Aims: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs cause enterocyte damage inducing an increase of intestinal permeability. Tight junctions are the key structures in the permeability of the intestinal mucosa. ZO-1 is a tight junction associated protein considered a good marker of their integrity. It has been suggested that probiotics could play a protective role in the intestinal barrier function. We determined, in vitro, whether the heat-killed Lactobacillus acidophilus strain LB (LaLB) with its spent culture supernatant protects tight junctions of HT-29 cells from aspirin (ASA) damage. Methods: HT-29 cells were treated with ASA alone or ASA and LaLB with its spent culture supernatant together. Morphological alterations of tight junctions were evaluated by immunofluorescence using an anti-ZO-1 antibody. Moreover, a semiquantitative assay for ZO-1 was performed by Western blot. Results: Immunofluorescence analysis showed a fragmented and granulous ZO-1 staining, after ASA treatment. Using both ASA and LaLB with its spent culture supernatant together, we found a fine continuous linear web at cell-cell contacts similarly to control. Western blot revealed that ASA inhibited ZO-1 expression and LaLB with its spent culture supernatant counteracted this effect. Conclusions: This pilot study shows, for the first time, the protective effect of LaLB with its spent culture supernatant on tight junctions from ASA damage. These results suggest that probiotics could play a role in the prevention of ASA-induced alterations of intestinal permeability.
Reduced Airway Inflammation and Remodeling in Parallel with Mucin 5AC Protein Expression Decreased by S-Carboxymethylcysteine, a Mucoregulant, in the Airways of Rats Exposed to Sulfur Dioxide
Authors: Sueyoshi Sumihisa , Miyata Yuki , Masumoto Yoshihiro , Ishibashi Yuji , Matsuzawa Shigeki , Harano Naoki , Tsuru Kiyoyuki , Imai Shigeru
Published: June 2004

Background: Human obstructive airway diseases are histopathologically characterized by inflammatory cell infiltration, goblet cell hyperplasia, and mucus hypersecretion in airways. We prepared a rat model of airway injury by exposure of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and then evaluated the effects of S-carboxymethylcysteine (S-CMC), a mucoregulant. Methods: Rats were exposed to SO2 gas for 44 days and orally given S-CMC at 250 mg/kg, twice daily, from 21 to 44 days of exposure for histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation. Results: SO2 exposure induced inflammatory cell infiltration and mucus cell increase in rat airways. S-CMC treatment significantly decreased this inflammatory cell infiltration in proximal and peripheral airways. Morphometrically, SO2 exposure significantly increased the number of Alcian blue (pH 2.5)- and periodic acid-Schiff (AB/PAS)-positive cells in rat airways (11.8 × 10–2 cell/nuclear profiles per micrometer basement membrane) compared to normal rat airways (1.6 × 10–2 cell/nuclear profiles per micrometer basement membrane). S-CMC treatment significantly decreased the number of AB/PAS-positive cells (4.4 × 10–2 cell/nuclear profiles per micrometer basement membrane, p < 0.01 vs. SO2-exposed rats). Immunohistochemically, SO2 exposure increased the expression of mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) protein in the airway epithelium of rats, but S-CMC treatment inhibited the increase. Conclusions: The increased mucus cells and MUC5AC protein expression seem associated with SO2-induced airway inflammation in rats. The fact that S-CMC suppresses airway inflammation and the increase in mucus cells and MUC5AC protein expression suggests that this mucoregulant may be advantageous in the treatment of inflammatory airway diseases with goblet cell hyperplasia.