bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malignant Melanoma on the Sole: How to Detect the Early Lesions Efficiently
Authors: SAIDA TOSHIAKI
Published: December 2004

Early detection of malignant melanoma (MM) is essential to improve the prognosis. In non‐white populations, including Japanese, the sole is the most prevalent site of MM. On the sole, however, melanocytic nevus is also frequently found. Clinical differentiation of early MM from benign melanocytic nevus on the sole is sometimes difficult because both are observed as a brownish‐black macule. For the effective early detection of MM on the sole, the author has proposed guidelines based on the data of hundreds of melanocytic lesions on the sole. The algorithmic guidelines are as follows: when you see a pigmented lesion on the sole, first exclude congenital melanocytic nevus and some other specified disorders, and then measure the maximum diameter of the lesion. If it is more than 7 mm, biopsy it for histopathologic evaluation. If it is 7 mm or less, just follow the course of the lesion and advise the patient to come back if it enlarges to more than 7 mm. Even when the lesion is 7 mm or less, a biopsy is recommended on it, if it shows marked irregularity in shape and/or color or it shows the parallel ridge pattern with epiluminescence microscopy (ELM). The author believes the guidelines surely work efficiently in screening early MM on the sole.
T Cell Immune Responses Against Melanoma and Melanocytes in Cancer and Autoimmunity
Authors: KAWAKAMI YUTAKA , SUZUKI YURIKO , SHOFUDA TOMOKO , KINIWA YUKIKO , INOZUME TAKASHI , DAN KATSUAKI , SAKURAI TOSHIHARU , FUJITA TOMONOBU
Published: December 2004

T cell responses specific for melanoma cells and melanocytes appear to be involved in the rejection of melanoma tumors, as well as in the development of autoimmune reactions in patients with Vogt‐Koyanagi‐Harada disease (VKH), sympathetic ophthalmia, or autoimmune vitiligo. Some of the target antigens for those T cells have been isolated using cDNA expression cloning with melanoma reactive T cells derived from tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) of patients with melanoma. These include melanocyte specific proteins, such as tyrosinase, TRP1, TRP2, gp100, and MART‐1, cancer‐testis antigens, and mutated peptides derived from genetic alterations in melanoma cells. Some of the melanoma reactive T cells appear to respond to cryptic or subdominant self epitopes in melanosomal proteins. Modification of those epitopes to increase their immunogenicity by replacement of amino acids at primary anchor residues for peptide/MHC binding, allowed an improvement in immunotherapy for patients with melanoma. Targets for autoreactive T cells against melanocytes in those autoimmune disorders remain to be identified. Isolation of novel target antigens is important for understanding these pathological T cell responses, as well as for developing new diagnostic and treatment methods for these diseases. A variety of techniques, including cDNA expression cloning with T cells, serological analysis of recombinant cDNA expression libraries (SEREX), cDNA subtraction with representational differential analysis (RDA), and serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE) are now being applied to identify novel melanoma/melanocyte antigens recognized by T cells and antibodies.
Effect of UV on the susceptibility of acid‐soluble Skh‐1 hairless mouse collagen to collagenase
Authors: Menter J. M , Cornelison L. M , Cannick L , Patta A. M , Dowdy J. C , Sayre R. M , Abukhalaf I. K , Silvestrov N. S , Willis I.
Published: December 2004

Background/Purpose: Photoaging of the skin is a result of chronic exposure to environmental ultraviolet radiation (UV). The milieu provided by the extracellular matrix, which significantly influences the behaviour of resident fibroblasts, depends critically on the supermolecular collagen structure. We ask whether direct photochemical treatment of type I collagen with solar wavelengths capable of reaching the dermis can modify the substrate's susceptibility to collagenase in a model in vitro system.

Methods: Acid‐ extracted Skh‐1 hairless mouse collagen samples were irradiated with 0–140 J/cm2 of radiation from bank of filtered FS lamp (UVB/UVA = 0.33, fluence rate = 0.81 mW/cm2). Subsequent to UV irradiation, collagen samples were coupled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) and assayed for susceptibility to bacterial collagenase by monitoring the appearance of supernatant FITC fluorescence (a measure of lysed collagen) over time of incubation. As a ‘reference’, unirradiated commercial FITC‐labelled citrate‐soluble collagen (Elastin Products, Owensville, MO 65066, USA) was similarly analysed.

Results: Unirradiated mouse collagen had a lower rate of cleavage than did the calfskin sample. Irradiation of unlabelled mouse collagen for 0–48 h (0–140 J/cm2 total UV) rendered the sample more soluble, with concomitant chain degradation, cross‐linking and loss of intrinsic collagen fluorescence. At irradiation time's ≥ 4 h (≥11.7 J/cm2), the irradiated collagen was significantly more susceptible to bacterial collagenase digestion.

Discussion: It appears that the rate of cleavage depends on the superstructure of the collagen, since the kinetics of collagen cleavage differ for two collagen samples having essentially the same primary structure. Cleavage kinetics may depend on the ‘maturity’ (solubility) of the collagen. The observation that UV‐damaged mouse collagen is a better substrate for collagenase than the intact sample may be illustrative of a mechanism whereby damaged collagen targets itself for selective attack by collagenase.
Topical glycolic acid enhances photodamage by ultraviolet light
Authors: Kaidbey Kays , Sutherland Betsy , Bennett Paula , Wamer Wayne G. , Barton Curtis , Dennis Donna , Kornhauser Andrija
Published: December 2004

Background: Alpha‐hydroxy acids (AHAs) are widely used as ingredients in cosmetics. Several studies suggest that AHAs can increase the sensitivity of skin to ultraviolet (UV) light.

Purpose: This study was performed in order to determine whether short‐term dermal treatment with glycolic acid, a representative AHA, can enhance the damaging effects of UV light. The duration of the effect of AHAs on the sensitivity of skin to UV light was also examined.

Methods: The backs of 29 Caucasian subjects were treated, once daily, 6 days per week with either 10% glycolic acid (pH 3.5) or placebo in a randomized double‐blinded study. At the end of 4 weeks, sites within each treated area were exposed to 1.5 MED of UV light, determined on previously untreated skin. Specimens were obtained for enumeration of sunburn cells (SBCs) in the first group of subjects (n = 16), whereas cyclobutyl pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) in DNA were determined in the second group (n = 13). The minimal erythema dose (MED) in each site was also determined in the first group of subjects. Sunburn cells and MEDs were re‐evaluated in the first group 1 week after discontinuing AHA applications.

Results: Glycolic acid caused enhanced sensitivity to UV light measured as increased SBC induction and lowered MEDs. Cyclobutyl pyrimidine dimers were elevated but not to a statistically significant level. No differences in SBCs or MEDs were evident after a week of discontinued treatments.

Conclusion: Short‐term application of 10% glycolic acid sensitizes the skin to the damaging effects of UV light. This photosensitivity is reversed within a week of terminating treatments.
Narrow‐band ultraviolet B treatment for vitiligo, pruritus, and inflammatory dermatoses
Authors: Samson Yashar Sharam , Gielczyk Robert , Scherschun Lubomira , Lim Henry W.
Published: December 2004

Background: Narrow‐band ultraviolet B (NB‐UVB) therapy has been used successfully for the treatment of inflammatory and pigmentary skin disorders including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, mycosis fungoides, polymorphous light eruption, and vitiligo.

Methods: This is a retrospective review of the treatment outcomes of 117 consecutive patients with vitiligo, pruritus, and other inflammatory dermatoses, excluding those with psoriasis and CTCL, who were treated with NB‐UVB between 1998 and 2001 at our institution.

Results: Approximately 80% of all patients showed improvement in their condition. NB‐UVB phototherapy was well tolerated, with no serious adverse effects. In patients with vitiligo, 6.4% had an abnormal thyroid‐stimulating hormone level and 6.5% had anemia.

Conclusion: NB‐UVB may be considered as a viable therapeutic option in the treatment of vitiligo, pruritus, and other inflammatory dermatoses. Long‐term adverse effects and cost–benefit analysis of NB‐UVB therapy compared to other treatment modalities remain to be determined.
Thellungiella halophila, a salt‐tolerant relative of Arabidopsis thaliana, possesses effective mechanisms to discriminate between potassium and sodium
Authors: VOLKOV V. , WANG B. , DOMINY P. J. , FRICKE W. , AMTMANN A.
Published: December 2004

Thellungiella halophila is a salt‐tolerant close relative of Arabidopsis thaliana. Significant mRNA similarity was confirmed by hybridization of T. halophila mRNA with the A. thaliana GeneChip ATH1. To establish a platform for future molecular comparison of the two species several physiological mechanisms, which may confer high salt tolerance to T. halophila, were investigated. Determination of ion content in shoots and roots of A. thaliana and T. halophila indicated different strategies of ion uptake and translocation from root to shoot in the two species. During salt stress T. halophila accumulated less sodium than A. thaliana. Tissue concentrations of sodium and potassium showed negative correlation in A. thaliana but not in T. halophila. Electrophysiological experiments proved high potassium/sodium selectivity of root plasma membrane channels in T. halophila. In particular, voltage‐independent currents were more selective for potassium in T. halophila than in A. thaliana. Single cell sampling of T. halophila leaves during salt exposure revealed increased concentrations of sodium and decreased concentrations of potassium in epidermal cells suggesting that this cell type could function to ensure storage of sodium and exchange of potassium with the rest of leaf. Application of salt resulted in a sharp drop of transpiration in A. thaliana. By contrast, transpiration in T. halophila responded more slowly and was only slightly inhibited by salt treatment, thus maintaining high water uptake and ion transport.
Changes in the phosphorylation state of sucrose synthase during development of Japanese pear fruit
Authors: Tanase Koji , Shiratake Katsuhiro , Mori Hitoshi , Yamaki Shohei
Published: December 2004

Changes in the protein level and phosphorylation state of sucrose synthase (SS) were studied throughout the development of Japanese pear fruit. The level of SS protein was high at the young stage, dropped with fruit enlargement and increased again with fruit maturation. Antibody against phospho‐Ser reacted with SS from young fruit, but did not react with SS that had been dephosphorylated by alkaline phosphatase (AP). The activities of SS isozymes were separated by ion‐exchange chromatography. It was found that the fluctuation in SS activity was caused by two SS isozymes (SSI and SSII); (SSI reacted with antibody against phospho‐Ser, while SSII did not. Phosphorylation of SS affected its kinetic parameters, that is, the affinity of phosphorylated SS for UDP was higher than that of dephosphorylated SS, while it was the contrary for UDP‐glucose. The reaction of dephosphorylated SS was inclined toward sucrose synthesis more than that of phosphorylated SS. Phosphorylated SS protein was most abundant in young fruit, but decreased with fruit development, while non‐phosphorylated SS protein increased in mature fruit. These results suggest that SS isoforms may be affected by post‐translational modifications such as phosphorylation, and that the regulation of phosphorylation may potentially control the properties and functions of SS throughout the development of Japanese pear fruit.
Relationship between bacteroid poly‐β‐hydroxybutyrate accumulation and nodule functioning in the Galega orientalis–Rhizobium galegae symbiosis under diamine treatment
Authors: Vassileva Valya , Ignatov George
Published: December 2004

Exposure of Galega orientalis plants to diamines putrescine (Put) and cadaverine (Cad) at concentrations from 0.01 to 2.0 mM significantly altered carbon and nitrogen metabolism in their root nodules. Correlative studies of bacteroid poly‐β‐hydroxybutyrate (PHB) content and acetylene‐reduction capacity of the nodules revealed a negative relationship between these parameters. Utilisation of PHB deposits by bacteroids and high acetylene reduction activity was observed when applying low diamine concentrations. The increase in PHB accumulation in response to high diamine levels was accompanied by a considerable decline in nodule nitrogenase activity. Supplying isolated Galega bacteroids with various diamine concentrations significantly modified bacteroid oxygen consumption, which might be associated with alterations in carbon flux to the bacteroids. Finally, modulation of the bacteroid content upon Put and Cad treatment was examined. The results are discussed in terms of possible causes of the diamine‐induced changes in nodule metabolism.
Kinetics of net H+, Ca2+, K+, Na+, , and Cl– fluxes associated with post‐chilling recovery of plasma membrane transporters in Zea mays leaf and root tissues
Authors: Shabala Sergey , Shabala Lana
Published: December 2004

Although temperature‐induced changes in membrane structure and activity seem to be central to chilling stress perception, the specific details of temperature effects on plant nutrient acquisition remain obscure. In this study, we have undertaken a comparative study of low temperature effects on the activity of plasma membrane transporters of different ions in corn (Zea mays L.) leaf and root tissues by non‐invasive measurements of net ion fluxes using ion‐selective microelectrode (the MIFE) technique. Kinetics of net H+, Ca2+, K+, Na+, and Cl– fluxes were measured as plant tissues recovered after short‐term (3 h) chilling stress. The major findings can be summarized as follows: (1) The critical temperatures, under which the recovery of the activity of plasma membrane transporters took place, were found to be the same for all ions measured and are likely to be associated with the phase transition of membrane lipids. (2) The most pronounced was the reduction in net uptake of K+ and (3) Chilling treatment caused a significant net influx of Cl– and Na+ in the leaf tissue. (4) For the same species, the critical temperatures for membrane‐transport processes in roots were 2–2.5°C lower than in leaves. Possible physiological significance of these findings is discussed.
Detection and characterization of GTP‐binding proteins in the chloroplast envelope of spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
Authors: Kjellberg J. Magnus , Stina Sandelius Anna
Published: December 2004

Proteins binding guanosine triphosphate (GTP) have emerged as important regulators in several cellular processes in plants. To investigate any role of such proteins in chloroplast functions, we subjected envelope, stroma and thylakoid fractions isolated from spinach chloroplasts to two different GTP‐binding assays. With both methods, we detected GTP‐specific binding only in the envelope fraction. Two chloroplast envelope proteins with the apparent molecular weights of 30.5 and 33.5 kDa, respectively, bound [α‐32P]GTP after SDS‐PAGE followed by electroblotting onto a PVDF‐membrane and renaturation. Both proteins were intrinsic proteins located in the outer chloroplast envelope. Also, when the fractions were incubated with [α‐32P]GTP, followed by periodate oxidation and borohydride reduction to cross‐link GTP to proteins, two proteins in the envelope fraction, of apparent molecular weights of 28 and 39 kDa, appeared to specifically bind GTP. When agents that stimulate heterotrimeric G‐proteins, cholera toxin or the mastoparan analogue mas7, were added to isolated chloroplast envelope, the binding of radiolabelled GTP to the 39 kDa protein, a protein of the inner chloroplast envelope, was stimulated, whereas GTP‐binding of the 28 kDa protein, a protein of the outer envelope, was unchanged. Mas7 also stimulated synthesis of monogalactosyl diacylglycerol in isolated chloroplast envelope. The occurrence and regulation of GTP‐binding proteins in the chloroplast envelope suggests that GTP‐binding proteins could be involved in communication with the extraplastidic compartment during chloroplast biogenesis and development.
Bayesian analysis of plant disease prediction
Authors: Yuen J. E. , Hughes G.
Published: December 2004

Rule‐based systems for the prediction of the occurrence of disease can be evaluated in a number of different ways. One way is to examine the probability of disease occurrence before and after using the predictor. Bayes's Theorem can be a useful tool to examine how a disease forecast (either positive or negative) affects the probability of occurrence, and simple analyses can be conducted without knowing the risk preferences of the targeted decision makers. Likelihood ratios can be calculated from the sensitivity and specificity of the forecast, and provide convenient summaries of the forecast performance. They can also be used in a simpler form of Bayes's Theorem. For diseases where little or no prior information on occurrence is available, most forecasts will be useful in that they will increase or decrease the probability of disease occurrence. For extremely common or extremely rare diseases, likelihood ratios may not be sufficiently large or small to substantially affect the probability of disease occurrence or make any difference to the actions taken by the decision maker.
Genetic diversity of wild and cultivated soybeans growing in China revealed by RAPD analysis
Authors: Xu D. H. , Gai J. Y.
Published: December 2004

To evaluate the genetic diversity and to clarify the genetic relationships of wild and cultivated soybeans growing in China, 21 wild soybean accessions and 27 cultivated soybean landraces were analysed by using the random amplified polymorphic DNA method. The data show that wild soybean has a higher genetic variation than cultivated soybean, indicating that genetic variation has been reduced by domestication of wild soybean. Based on Nei's genetic similarity coefficient, all the accessions were classified into two major clusters, corresponding to wild and cultivated varieties of soybean. Furthermore, within each species, the accessions tend to form sub‐clusters that are in agreement with their geographical origins, demonstrating that an extensive geographical genetic differentiation exists in both species. For cultivated soybean, the varieties from the same geographical region but with different seasonal types were found to have closer genetic relationships than varieties from different geographical regions but with the same seasonal type. This result indicates that geographical differentiation plays a key role in the genetic differentiation of both wild and cultivated soybeans. Cultivated soybean varieties with different seasonal types in a region might have been established mainly from the local genotypes.
DNA fingerprinting studies in coloured cotton genotypes
Authors: Punitha D. , Raveendran T. S.
Published: December 2004

A collection of 11 coloured cotton Gossypium hirsutum genotypes and four white linted genotypes of different origin were evaluated by randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis. These 15 cotton genotypes were evaluated using 32 different 10‐mer primers of arbitrary sequences. All 32 primers were polymorphic ‐ in total, 287 amplified fragments were observed in these patterns. Out of the 287 fragments, 219 were polymorphic accounting for 76.31% of the total number of fragments. Similarity indices were calculated using the Dice coefficient and a dendrogram showing relationships between genotypes was obtained by Unweighted Pair Group Method of Arithmetic Average (UPGMA) cluster analysis. Cluster analysis showed clear‐cut separation of the coloured and white linted genotypes and thus formed three clusters (I, II and III). Among the coloured linted genotypes, all except ‘Parbhani American’ and ‘Lousiana brown’ clustered together. Cluster II contained white linted genotypes orginating from the same breeding station. The results indicate that RAPDs may constitute a relatively simple and efficient method for analysing genetic variation in coloured and white linted G. hirsutum collections.
Exhaled breath condensate in children: Pearls and pitfalls
Authors: Rosias Philippe P. R. , Dompeling Edward , Hendriks Han J. E. , Heijnens Jan W. C. M. , Donckerwolcke Raymond A. M. G. , Jöbsis Quirijn
Published: December 2004

Exhaled breath condensate (EBC) is a rapidly growing field of research in respiratory medicine. Airway inflammation is a central feature of chronic lung diseases, like asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia and primary ciliary dyskinesia. EBC may be a useful technique for non‐invasive assessment of markers of airway inflammation. The non‐invasive character of EBC ‘inflammometry’ and the general lack of appropriate techniques makes it particularly interesting for paediatrics.

We provide a detailed update on the methods currently used for EBC collection and measurement of mediators. We emphasize on paediatric data. The apparent simplicity of the EBC method must not be overstated, as numerous methodological pitfalls have yet to overcome. Comparison and interpretation of data on this rapidly growing field of research is mainly hampered by the lack of standardization and the lack of specific high‐sensitivity immunochemical or colorimetric assays. The initiative of the European Respiratory Society to institute a task force on this topic is a first step towards a uniform technique of EBC. Meanwhile, when using this technique or when interpreting research data, one should be fully aware of the possible methodological pitfalls.
Exhaled breath condensate eicosanoids and sputum eosinophils in asthmatic children: A pilot study
Authors: Bodini A. , Peroni D. , Vicentini L. , Loiacono A. , Baraldi E. , Ghiro L. , Corradi M. , Alinovi R. , Boner A. L. , Piacentini G. L.
Published: December 2004

Cysteinyl leukotrienes (cys‐LTs), LTB4and 8‐isoprostane are increased in the exhaled breath condensate (EBC) from asthmatic patients. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the measurement of cys‐LTs, LTB4and 8‐isoprostane in EBC can reflect the level of airway inflammation assessed by induced sputum in asthmatic children sensitized to house dust mite (HDM) during natural avoidance of HDM allergens. Twelve children were evaluated at the time of admission (T0) and after 3 months of stay (T1) at the Istituto Pio XII (Misurina, Italian Dolomites 1756  m). Sputum eosinophil percentage and measurement of cys‐LTs, LTB4and 8‐isoprostanes in the breath condensate at T0 and T1 were evaluated. Eosinophil percentage in induced sputum was 8.5 ± 1.1% at T0 and 3.5 ± 0.4% at T1 (p = 0.011). Neutrophil percentage in sputum was 1.1 ± 0.5% at T0 and 1.5 ± 1.0% at T1 (ns). Cys‐LTs mean level was 14.24 ± 4.53 pg/ml at T0 and 4.65 ± 0.68 pg/ml at T1 (p = 0.0125). LTB4level was 2.36 ± 0.19 pg/ml at T0 and 2.41 ± 0.23 pg/ml at T1 (ns). 8‐Isoprostane level reduced from 17.47 ± 3.18 pg/ml at T0 to 7.36 ± 3.26 pg/ml at T1 (p = 0.003). This study show that exhaled cys‐LTs and 8‐isoprostane, as well as eosinophil percentage in induced sputum, are reduced after allergen avoidance in asthmatic children suggesting a potential application of EBC for the non‐invasive evaluation of airway inflammation in asthma in allergic asthmatic children.
Mode of delivery and development of atopic disease during the first 2 years of life
Authors: Negele Kathrin , Heinrich Joachim , Borte Michael , von Berg Andrea , Schaaf Beate , Lehmann Irina , Wichmann H.‐Erich , Bolte Gabriele ,   for the LISA Study Group
Published: December 2004

It has been hypothesized that cesarean delivery might have an impact on the development of atopic diseases because of its gut flora modulating properties. In the present study, we analysed the association between cesarean delivery and atopic diseases using data of 2500 infants enrolled in the LISA‐Study, a German prospective multicenter birth cohort study. Data on symptoms and physician‐diagnosed atopic diseases were gathered by questionnaires shortly after birth and at infant's age 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. In addition, sensitization to common food and inhalant allergens was assessed by measuring specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) using the CAP‐RAST FEIA method at the age of 2 yr. Confounder‐adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by multiple logistic regression. We found a positive association between cesarean delivery and occurrence of at least one episode of wheezing [aOR 1.31 (95% CI 1.02–1.68)] and of recurrent wheezing [1.41 (1.02–1.96)] during the first 2 yr of life. Furthermore, effect estimates for allergic sensitization defined as at least one specific IgE ≥0.70 kU/l against any allergen [1.48 (0.98–2.24)], against food allergens [1.64 (1.03–2.63)], and against inhalant allergens [1.75 (0.98–3.12)] were increased. Symptoms of atopic dermatitis [1.21 (0.92–1.59)], physician‐diagnosed atopic dermatitis [1.04 (0.79–1.39)], and symptoms of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis [1.40 (0.80–2.44)] were only marginally increased in children delivered by cesarean section. In conclusion, our results suggest that cesarean delivery may be an additional risk factor for wheezing and allergic sensitization at least to food allergens up to the age of 2 yr. This should be considered when cesarean section is done for other than medical reasons.
Evaluation of Adjustments for Partial Non-Response Bias in the US National Immunization Survey
Authors: Smith Philip J. , Hoaglin David C. , Rao J. N. K. , Battaglia Michael P. , Daniels Danni
Published: December 2004

Many health surveys conduct an initial household interview to obtain demographic information and then request permission to obtain detailed information on health outcomes from the respondent's health care providers. A ‘complete response’ results when both the demographic information and the detailed health outcome data are obtained. A ‘partial response’ results when the initial interview is complete but, for one reason or another, the detailed health outcome information is not obtained. If ‘complete responders’ differ from ‘partial responders’ and the proportion of partial responders in the sample is at least moderately large, statistics that use only data from complete responders may be severely biased. We refer to bias that is attributable to these differences as ‘partial non-response’ bias. In health surveys it is customary to adjust survey estimates to account for potential differences by employing adjustment cells and weighting to reduce bias from partial response. Before making these adjustments, it is important to ask whether an adjustment is expected to increase or decrease bias from partial non-response. After making these adjustments, an equally important question is ‘How well does the method of adjustment work to reduce partial non-response bias?’. The paper describes methods for answering these questions. Data from the US National Immunization Survey are used to illustrate the methods.
Lupus lymphadenitis simulating Kikuchi's lymphadenitis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A clinicopathological analysis of six cases and review of the literature
Authors: Hu Sindy , Kuo Tseng‐tong , Hong Hong‐Shang
Published: December 2004

Kikuchi's disease (KD) or Kikuchi's lymphadenitis (KL) is a self‐limiting disease mostly affecting the cervical lymph nodes of young individuals. Whether the reported cases of KL associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were genuine KL or lupus lymphadenitis (LL) simulating KL in SLE patients is not clear. We analyzed six cases of KD‐like lymphadenitis occurring in SLE patients and 12 reported cases to clarify the relationship between KL and SLE. We found that not all cases occurred simultaneously with SLE. Eight cases occured either before or after SLE. These cases might have true KL independent of SLE with the exception of two cases that occurred after SLE, but the patients still had lupus activity. The 10 cases that coexisted with SLE most likelty had LL rather than KL. This was supported by the immunohistochemical finding of sparse cytotoxic T cells in those lymph nodes in contrast to abundant cytotoxic T cells usually seen in a typical KL. We conclude that KL is not related to SLE, and KD‐like lymphadenitis coexisting with SLE should be regarded as LL. Pathologists should be aware of the possibility that LL can mimic KL in patients with SLE, especially necrotizing‐type KL.
Resistance to carbosulfan in Anopheles gambiae from Ivory Coast, based on reduced sensitivity of acetylcholinesterase
Authors: N'Guessan R. , Darriet F. , Guillet P. , Carnevale P. , Traore‐Lamizana M. , Corbel V. , Koffi A. A. , Chandre F.
Published: December 2004

Resistance to carbosulfan, a carbamate insecticide, was detected in field populations of the malaria vector mosquito Anopheles gambiae Giles (Diptera: Culicidae) from two ecologically contrasted localities near Bouaké, Ivory Coast: rural M'bé with predominantly M form of An. gambiae susceptible to pyrethroids; suburban Yaokoffikro with predominantly S form of An. gambiae highly resistant to pyrethroids (96% kdr). The discriminating concentration of 0.4% carbosulfan (i.e. double the LC100) was determined from bioassays with the susceptible An. gambiae Kisumu strain. Following exposure to the diagnostic dosage (0.4% carbosulfan for 1 h), mortality rates of female An. gambiae adults (reared from larvae collected from ricefields) were 62% and 29% of those from M'bé and Yaokoffikro, respectively, 24 h post‐exposure. Exposure for 3 min to netting impregnated with the operational dosage of carbosulfan 200 mg/m2 gave mortality rates of 88% of those from M'bé and only 12.2% for Yaokoffikro. In each case the control untreated mortality rate was insignificant. Biochemical assays to detect possible resistance mechanism(s) revealed the presence of insensitive AChE in populations of An. gambiae at both localities, more prevalent in the S form at Yaokoffikro than in M form at M'bé, as expected from bioassays results. Our study demonstrates the need to monitor carbamate resistance among populations of the An. gambiae complex in Africa, to determine its spread and anticipate vector control failure if these insecticides are employed.
Accuracy of reporting of sexual activity during late pregnancy
Authors: Sayle Amy E. , Savitz David A. , Williams Jude F.
Published: December 2004

Women recalled their sexual activity during pregnancy in telephone interviews occurring during and after the third trimester, as part of a study of preterm delivery in central North Carolina in 1996–97. This retrospective information was compared with prospective daily records for the same time periods in a subsample of 88 women. Relative to the daily records, women reported fewer episodes of intercourse and longer intervals since the most recent orgasm when they recalled this information in interviews. Recall of sexual activity over short, recent time periods during pregnancy appears to be a source of some misclassification. Reliance on retrospective reports may suffice for general measures of objective events, such as any vs. no intercourse over a short time period.
A population‐based birth defects surveillance system in the People's Republic of China
Authors: Li Song , Moore Cynthia A. , Li Zhu , Berry R. J. , Gindler Jacqueline , Hong Shi‐xin , Liu Yecai , Mulinare Joseph , Wong Lee‐Yang , Gu Hai‐qin , Erickson J. David
Published: December 2004

We describe a unique birth defects surveillance system in the People's Republic of China. The system was instituted in March 1992 as a component of an evaluation of the effectiveness of a public health campaign using periconceptional folic acid supplementation to prevent neural tube defects, and currently surveys birth cohorts of ≈ 150 000 infants per year. Local health care providers collect information in the form of detailed written descriptions and photographs of affected infants. The system allows for detection of birth defects at the local level with later definitive classification and coding; however, information is limited to structural anomalies that are visible on physical examination. This birth defects surveillance system provides an extensive database of infants with major and minor external structural anomalies, including the unique feature of a photographic record for most cases. These data can be used for aetiological studies, descriptive epidemiology and identification of unusual trends.
Growth velocity during the first postnatal week of life is linked to a spurt of IGF‐I effect
Authors: Skalkidou A. , Petridou E. , Papathoma E. , Salvanos H. , Trichopoulos D.
Published: December 2004

There is adequate evidence that growth during the perinatal period is linked to the risk of several adult onset diseases, and recent findings indicate that the insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) system is involved in prenatal growth, as reflected in birthweight. However, whether major components of the IGF system are involved in the immediate post‐natal growth has not been studied. Maternal questionnaires were completed, and laboratory measurements of several variables, including IGF‐I, IGF‐II and IGF‐binding protein‐3 (IGFBP‐3), were made for a total of 331 apparently healthy full‐term newborns, from whom routine blood samples were taken during the first 5 days of their life. Birthweight and weight at the time of bleeding were among the recorded variables, and the difference divided by the age in days of the newborn was considered as reflecting immediate postnatal growth velocity.

Immediate postnatal growth velocity was strongly positively associated with IGF‐I. The squared adjusted correlation coefficient was 0.29 when IGF‐I was incorporated in the model predicting postnatal growth velocity but was only 0.08 when IGF‐I was excluded. In contrast, IGF‐II and IGFBP‐3 had no effect on postnatal growth velocity. It thus appears that IGF‐I underlies growth during the immediate postnatal period. To the extent that perinatal growth may affect adult onset diseases, the findings of this study suggest that the action of IGF‐I during the immediate postnatal period may represent a process of major importance.
Vaccination against Fasciola hepatica infection using a Schistosoma mansoni defined recombinant antigen, Sm14
Authors: Almeida Marília S. , Torloni Humberto , Lee‐Ho Paulo , Vilar Monica M. , Thaumaturgo Nilton , Simpson Andrew J. G. , Tendler Miriam
Published: December 2004

Fasciola hepatica is the causative agent of fasciolosis in many areas in America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. There is an urgent need for improved methods to control the parasite's transmission. We describe the use of an experimental vaccine based on a recombinant antigen cloned from another parasite, Schistosoma mansoni (Sm14), that induces high levels of cross protection in mice against both S. mansoni and F. hepatica. Sheep and mice vaccinated with Sm14 were significantly protected against challenge infection with metacercariae of Fasciola hepatica and were completely free of the histopathological hepatic damage related to liver fluke infection. The vaccine will provide a valuable new tool to aid in transmission control of this economically important disease.
Production of trophic eggs by virgin workers in the ponerine antGnamptogenys menadensis
Authors: Gobin B. , Peeters C. , Billen J.
Published: December 2004

Abstract.Most colonies (thirty‐five out of thirty‐seven) of the ant Gnamptogenys menadensis (Mayr) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Ponerinae) lack queens. Mated workers produce reproductive eggs, whereas virgin workers can lay only smaller trophic eggs (350 ovipositions observed). These two egg types are morphologically distinct (e.g. in the pattern of oogenesis and ultrastructure of membranes and micropyle) and relate to different ovarian characteristics (ovariole length, number of yolky oocytes and yellow bodies). When reproductives are removed, a small number of virgin workers switch to producing reproductive eggs, although only 3% of these develop into larvae. Once workers are mated, up to 50% of their eggs develop further. Trophic eggs are generally absent in social insects lacking physical castes, and we review adaptive explanations of its occurrence in G. menadensis.
Interactions between the endocrine and immune systems in locusts
Authors: Goldsworthy Graham , Mullen Lisa , Opoku‐Ware Kwaku , Chandrakant Shashi
Published: December 2004

Abstract. The prophenoloxidase cascade in the haemolymph of mature adult Locusta migratoria migratorioides (R & F) is activated in response to injection of laminarin, a β‐1,3 glucan. Co‐injection of adipokinetic hormone‐I (Lom‐AKH‐I) and laminarin prolongs the activation of the enzyme in a dose‐dependent manner. However, injections of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) do not activate prophenoloxidase unless AKH is co‐injected, when there is a dose‐dependent increase in the level of phenoloxidase that persists in the haemolymph for several hours. Even when AKH is co‐injected, the highest levels of phenoloxidase activity are always greater after injection of laminarin than after LPS, and these two immunogens must activate the prophenoloxidase cascade by quite distinct pathways. In the present study, interactions between the endocrine and immune systems were examined with respect to activation of prophenoloxidase and the formation of nodules: injection of LPS induces nodule formation in adult locusts. With LPS from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, nodules form exclusively in dense accumulations in the anterior portion of the abdomen on either side of the dorsal blood vessel associated with the dorsal diaphragm. However, with LPS from Escherichia coli, fewer nodules are formed but with a similar distribution, except that occasionally some nodules are aligned additionally on either side of the ventral nerve cord. Co‐injection of Lom‐AKH‐I with LPS from either bacteria stimulates greater numbers of nodules to be formed. This effect of coinjection of AKH on nodule formation is seen at low doses of hormone with only 0.3 or 0.4 pmol of Lom‐AKH‐1, respectively, increasing the number of nodules by 50%. Injections of octopamine or 5‐hydroxytryptamine do not mimic either of the actions of Lom‐AKH‐I described here. Co‐injection of an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor, captopril, reduces nodule formation in response to injections of LPS but has no effect on the activation of phenoloxidase. Co‐injection of an inhibitor of eicosanoid synthesis, dexamethasone, with LPS influences nodule formation (with or without AKH) in different ways according to the dose of dexamethasone used, but does not affect activation of prophenoloxidase. Eicosanoid synthesis is important for nodule formation, but not for the activation of the prophenoloxidase cascade in locust haemolymph.
Pheromones in relation to aggregation and reproduction in desert locusts
Authors: Ferenz Hans‐Jörg , Seidelmann Karsten
Published: December 2004

Abstract. Desert locusts, Schistocerca gregaria (Forskål) (Orthoptera: Acrididae), exhibit a population density‐dependent phase polymorphism which includes the gradual change of many morphological, physiological and behavioural characteristics. Many volatiles associated with desert locusts have been identified recently and it is assumed that they are involved in pheromonal control of behaviour and development of locusts. Ovipositing females deposit with their egg pods several volatiles that appear to be attractive to other females resulting – possibly in combination with environmental factors – in an aggregated oviposition. Mature males release several volatiles, among them phenylacetonitrile, which are reported to accelerate sexual maturation in young males. Also, aggregation pheromone systems for hoppers and adults have been described. However, recent studies and publications shed a new light on the postulated effects of some of these volatiles. Gregarious behaviour can undoubtedly be induced by mechanical stimuli. Furthermore, the main component of the adult aggregation pheromone system, phenylacetonitrile, is found to be a repellent obviously not involved in aggregation. Comprehensive studies have demonstrated that phenylacetonitrile is used by mature gregarious males as a courtship inhibition pheromone to enhance mate guarding. Recent progress, contradictory results and perspectives in desert locust pheromone research related to reproduction are summarized and discussed in this paper.
Nickel and zinc hyperaccumulation by Alyssum murale and Thlaspi caerulescens (Brassicaceae) do not enhance survival and whole‐plant growth under drought stress
Authors: WHITING S. N. , NEUMANN P. M. , BAKER A. J. M.
Published: December 2004

Nickel and Zn hyperaccumulation by Alyssum murale and Thlaspi caerulescens bear substantial energetic costs and should confer benefits to the plant. This research determined whether metal hyperaccumulation can increase osmotic adjustment and resistance to water stress (drought). Alyssum murale and Thlaspi caerulescens treated with low or high concentrations of Ni or Zn were exposed to moderate (−0·4 MPa) and severe (−1·0 MPa) water stresses using aqueous polyethylene glycol. In the absence of metals both water deficits inhibited shoot growth. Nickel and Zn hyperaccumulation did not ameliorate growth inhibition by either level of water stress. The water stress did not induce major changes in shoot metal concentrations of these constitutive hyperaccumulators. Moreover, metal hyperaccumulation had minimal effects on the osmolality of leaf‐sap extracts, relative water content of the shoots, or rate of evapotranspiration. It is concluded that Ni or Zn hyperaccumulation does not augment whole‐plant capacity for drought resistance in A. murale and T. caerulescens.
Ultrasound acoustic emissions from freezing xylem*
Authors: KIKUTA S. B. , RICHTER H.
Published: December 2004

Rachides of Juglans regia L. (Juglandaceae) and one‐year‐old twigs of Evonymus latifolia (L.) Mill. (Celastraceae) were cooled in air to −25 °C, with an ultrasound detector attached to the xylem where peripheral tissues had been peeled off. Ultrasound acoustic emissions started between −4·5 and −14·3 °C, as measured with a thermocouple inserted into the xylem. The number of emissions was significantly lower from saturated plant parts than from those frozen at field water potentials. Bench‐drying of saturated samples produced significantly less signals than the freezing protocols. These findings are in accordance with the hypothesis that freezing of xylem under tension induces cavitation events. They corroborate earlier work which tried to provide a logical explanation for the seemingly paradoxical cryo‐scanning electron microscope observations of changing vessel contents during a daycourse in the field.
Photosynthetic limitations in olive cultivars with different sensitivity to salt stress
Authors: LORETO F. , CENTRITTO M. , CHARTZOULAKIS K.
Published: December 2004

Olive (Olea europea L) is one of the most valuable and widespread fruit trees in the Mediterranean area. To breed olive for resistance to salinity, an environmental constraint typical of the Mediterranean, is an important goal. The photosynthetic limitations associated with salt stress caused by irrigation with saline (200 mm) water were assessed with simultaneous gas‐exchange and fluorescence field measurements in six olive cultivars. Cultivars were found to possess inherently different photosynthesis when non‐stressed. When exposed to salt stress, cultivars with inherently high photosynthesis showed the highest photosynthetic reductions. There was no relationship between salt accumulation and photosynthesis reduction in either young or old leaves. Thus photosynthetic sensitivity to salt did not depend on salt exclusion or compartmentalization in the old leaves of the olive cultivars investigated. Salt reduced the photochemical efficiency, but this reduction was also not associated with photosynthesis reduction. Salt caused a reduction of stomatal and mesophyll conductance, especially in cultivars with inherently high photosynthesis. Mesophyll conductance was generally strongly associated with photosynthesis, but not in salt‐stressed leaves with a mesophyll conductance higher than 50 mmol m−2 s−1. The combined reduction of stomatal and mesophyll conductances in salt‐stressed leaves increased the CO2 draw‐down between ambient air and the chloroplasts. The CO2 draw‐down was strongly associated with photosynthesis reduction of salt‐stressed leaves but also with the variable photosynthesis of controls. The relationship between photosynthesis and CO2 draw‐down remained unchanged in most of the cultivars, suggesting no or small changes in Rubisco activity of salt‐stressed leaves. The present results indicate that the low chloroplast CO2 concentration set by both low stomatal and mesophyll conductances were the main limitations of photosynthesis in salt‐stressed olive as well as in cultivars with inherently low photosynthesis. It is consequently suggested that, independently of the apparent sensitivity of photosynthesis to salt, this effect may be relieved if conductances to CO2 diffusion are restored.
The water‐filled versus air‐filled status of vessels cut open in air: the ‘Scholander assumption’ revisited
Authors: TYREE M. T. , COCHARD H. , CRUIZIAT P.
Published: December 2004

When petioles of transpiring leaves are cut in the air, according to the ‘Scholander assumption’, the vessels cut open should fill with air as the water is drained away by continued transpiration. The distribution of air‐filled vessels versus distance from the cut surface should match the distribution of lengths of ‘open vessels’, i.e. vessels cut open when the leaf is excised. Three different methods were used to estimate the length distribution of open vessels and compared it to the observed distribution of embolisms by the cryo‐scanning electron microscope (SEM) method. In the cryo‐SEM method, petioles are frozen in liquid nitrogen soon after the petiole is cut. The petioles are then cut at different distances from the original cut surface while frozen and examined in a cryo‐SEM facility, where it is easy to distinguish vessels filled with air from those filled with ice. In petioles of Acer platanoides and Juglans regia, the distribution of embolized vessels agrees with expectations. This is in contrast to a previous study on sunflower where cryo‐SEM results did not agree with expectations. The reason for this disagreement requires further study for a full elucidation.
Needle cytokinin content as a sensitive bioindicator of N pollution in Sitka spruce
Authors: COLLIER M. D. , SHEPPARD L. J. , CROSSLEY A. , HANKE D. E.
Published: December 2004

Previous work has shown that conifers growing on sites exposed to aerial pollution exhibit a different pattern of vegetative development in comparison with those on unpolluted sites, and have higher needle cytokinin contents (von Schwartzenberg & Hahn, Journal of Plant Physiology 139, 218–223, 1991). Physiologically mature Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis[Bong.] Carr) trees growing in a commercial plantation were sprayed with combinations of S, N and acidity from bud burst until December, for a 3 year period, in order to factor out the effects of individual pollutants and identify the specific component responsible for the high cytokinin content. Cytokinins were monitored using high‐performance liquid chromatography/enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay techniques. After 3 years of treatment only needles of neutral N‐treated trees contained significantly higher levels of cytokinin than those of trees receiving no spray. The addition of acid S could suppress the effects of added N. Needles from neutral N treatments also contained significantly higher levels of biologically active cytokinins and forms that can be transported in the xylem/phloem. Significantly lower levels of active cytokinins were present in needles sprayed with N in combination with acid sulphate. The results demonstrate that the needle cytokinin content may be used as a sensitive and selective bioindicator of the early stages in N perturbation in coniferous trees.