bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atmospheric response to the observed increase of solar UV radiation from solar minimum to solar maximum simulated by the University of Illinois at Urbana‐Champaign climate‐chemistry model
Authors: Rozanov E. V. , Schlesinger M. E. , Egorova T. A. , Li B. , Andronova N. , Zubov V. A.
Published: January 2004

The University of Illinois at Urbana‐Champaign general circulation model with interactive photochemistry has been applied to estimate the changes in ozone, temperature and dynamics caused by the observed enhancement of the solar ultraviolet radiation during the 11‐year solar activity cycle. Two 15‐yearlong runs with spectral solar UV fluxes for the minimum and maximum solar activity cases have been performed. It was obtained that due to the imposed changes in spectral solar UV fluxes the annual‐mean ozone mixing ratio increases 3% over the southern middle latitudes in the upper stratosphere and 2% in the northern lower stratosphere. The model also shows a statistically significant warming of 1.2 K in the stratosphere and an acceleration of the polar‐night jets in both hemispheres. The most pronounced changes were found in November and March over the Northern Hemisphere and in September–October over the Southern Hemisphere. The magnitude and seasonal behavior of the simulated changes resemble the most robust features of the solar signal obtained from observational data analysis; however, they do not exactly coincide. The simulated zonal wind and temperature response during late fall to early spring contains the observed downward and poleward propagation of the solar signal, however its structure and phase are different from those observed. The response of the surface air temperature in December consists of warming over northern Europe, USA, and eastern Russia, and cooling over Greenland, Alaska, and central Asia. This pattern resembles the changes of the surface winter temperature after a major volcanic eruption. Model results for September–October show an intensification of ozone loss by up to 10% and expansion of the “ozone hole” toward South America.
Early Holocene glacial lake meltwater injections into the Labrador Sea and Ungava Bay
Authors: Jansson Krister N. , Kleman Johan
Published: January 2004

In this paper we analyze drainage routes and estimate fluxes of meltwater released from Labrador‐Ungava glacial lakes into the Labrador Sea, Ungava Bay, and Hudson Bay between 7.5 and 6.0 kyr BP (8.4–7.0 calendar (cal) years ka). The analysis and estimates are based on landform‐based reconstructions of the Laurentide Ice Sheet (LIS) decay pattern and the associated glacial lake evolution. Geomorphological data constraining the spatial extent of glacial lakes are coupled to a digital terrain model for meltwater volume calculations. The LIS ice recession between 7.5 and 6.0 kyr BP led to the formation of a large number of glacial lakes, which drained in approximately 30 meltwater pulses, with fluxes exceeding 0.015 Sv (1 Sv = 106 m3 s−1), into Labrador Sea, Ungava Bay, and Hudson Bay. The inferred rapid ice margin retreat during late stages of deglaciation indicates that these drainage events were relatively short‐lived. The early Holocene glacial lakes of Labrador‐Ungava released meltwater, resulting in a total inflow of ∼6000 km3 freshwater to the North Atlantic. The pulsed nature of meltwater release from the lakes is likely to have resulted in rapid repeated cooling of the Labrador Sea surface water.
The p53 homologue p73 accumulates in the nucleus and localizes to neurites and neurofibrillary tangles in Alzheimer disease brain
Authors: Wilson C. , Henry S. , Smith M. A. , Bowser R.
Published: January 2004

The molecular mechanisms that regulate neuronal survival vs. death during Alzheimer disease (AD) remain unclear. Nonetheless, a number of recent studies indicate that increased expression or altered subcellular distribution of numerous cell cycle proteins during AD may contribute to disease pathogenesis. Because homologues of p53, a key regulatory protein in the cell cycle, such as p73, have been identified and shown to participate in cellular differentiation and death pathways, we examined the expression and distribution of p73 in the hippocampus of eight control and 16 AD subjects. In control subjects, hippocampal pyramidal neurones exhibit p73 immunoreactivity that is distributed predominately in the cytoplasm. In AD hippocampus, increased levels of p73 are located in the nucleus of pyramidal neurones and p73 is located in dystrophic neurites and cytoskeletal pathology. Immunoblot analysis confirmed the presence of p73 in the hippocampus. These data indicate that p73 is expressed within hippocampal pyramidal neurones and exhibits altered subcellular distribution in AD.
The glial cell response to a viral vector in the aged brain
Authors: Davies C. A. , Gollins H. , Stevens N. , Fotheringham A. P. , Davies I.
Published: January 2004

The normal aged brain undergoes pro‐inflammatory changes. We investigated the effect of injecting a potential inflammatory stimulus, an adenoviral vector, on the response of microglia and astroglia in the aged brain. Groups of young (4 months) and old (31 months) male C57BL/Icrfat mice received a unilateral injection into the striatum of adenoviral vector encoding the LacZ gene. After 48 h, the mice were killed and the brains analysed for numbers of activated microglia and macrophages using the biotinylated lectin Griffonia simplicifolia as a marker; astroglia were identified by immunohistochemistry for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). The cell counts were analysed using two‐way analysis of variance (anova). Transgene expression was assessed by β‐galactosidase histochemistry. The numbers of activated microglia in the striatum increased in response to the adenovirus in both young [contralateral 19.5 (3.7), ipsilateral 36 (3.0)] and old [contralateral 23.1 (9.6), ipsilateral 40.8 (6.9)] mice (two‐way anova; P < 0.0001), but there was no significant difference between the two age groups. There was a significant age‐related increase in the number of GFAP‐positive astroglia in the uninjected, contralateral striatum [4 months, 2.5 (1.4); 31 months, 29.7 (9.3)] (two‐way anova; P < 0.0001). However, there was no difference in response to the adenovirus in both young [contralateral 2.5 (1.4), ipsilateral 3.2 (1.2)] and old [contralateral 29.7 (9.3), ipsilateral 28.9 (8.2)] mice. We conclude that even though it has been argued that the aged brain is in a pro‐inflammatory state, under the experimental conditions used in this study, there was no difference in the nature of the immune response between young and old mice of this strain to an adenoviral load.
A novel frozen brain tissue array technique: immunohistochemical detection of neuronal paraneoplastic autoantibodies
Authors: Kyläniemi M. , Koskinen M. , Karhunen P. , Rantala I. , Peltola J. , Haapasalo H.
Published: January 2004

We introduce a modification of the tissue microarray technique in which several frozen brain tissue specimens are collected to a single frozen brain array block. In the present application, we use it for the detection of neuronal paraneoplastic anti‐Hu autoantibodies. Representative samples from 15 different brain regions were collected according to a standard neuropathological autopsy protocol. Cryostat sections from each block were cut and conventionally stained. From representative areas, cylinder tissue samples from each specimen were punched and then arrayed into a recipient array block. Using the cryostat sections of this brain array, autoantibodies from seven anti‐Hu‐positive patient sera (confirmed by immunoblotting) were screened by immunohistochemistry. Neuronal architecture was well preserved and immunohistochemical staining was comparable to that of conventional cryostat sections. Because of the variable staining pattern in different brain areas, two anti‐Hu‐positive sera could be detected immunohistochemically by the one brain array. With the present array technique, it is possible to characterize the variable staining patterns of neuronal paraneoplastic autoantibodies in different locations of the human brain. The frozen brain array also allows the detection of RNA and DNA targets involved in neurological diseases.
Relationships between arteriosclerosis, cerebral amyloid angiopathy and myelin loss from cerebral cortical white matter in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Tian J. , Shi J. , Bailey K. , Mann D. M. A.
Published: January 2004

Pathological relationships between damage to the deep white matter of the cerebral cortex [as evidenced by myelin loss (ML)], cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) and arteriosclerosis (ART) were investigated in the brains of 137 patients with autopsy‐confirmed Alzheimer's disease (AD), in order to better understand the causes of white matter damage in AD, and the contribution of this to the pathogenesis of the disorder. All 137 patients had some degree of CAA in one or more brain regions although the occipital cortex was severely affected by CAA more frequently, and consequently mean CAA severity score was significantly greater, than other cortical regions. Eighty‐seven patients (63.5%) were affected by ML, with more patients showing ML from occipital cortex than from other cortical regions leading to a significantly higher mean ML severity score in this region. One hundred and twenty‐six patients (92%) were affected by ART, although the occipital cortex was not more frequently affected by ART than other cortical areas, the mean ART severity score in occipital cortex was nonetheless significantly greater than that of frontal and temporal cortex. Eighty‐seven patients showed both CAA and ML, although there was only a weak correlation between degree of CAA and extent of ML (P = 0.035). Forty‐seven patients showed ML and significant ART, 16 patients showed significant ART but no ML, 40 patients showed ML in the absence of significant ART and 34 patients showed neither significant ART nor ML. Overall, and for each of the four brain regions, the extent of ML correlated significantly (P < 0.001) with degree of ART. However, when only those 47 patients with ML and significant ART were considered, much stronger correlations between the extent of ML and the degree of ART were achieved both overall and within each of the four brain regions. The overall ART severity score (and overall scores for each pathological marker of ART) significantly correlated with that of CAA (P < 0.001). Pathological processes leading to white matter damage, in terms of ML at least, in AD are thus likely to be heterogeneous. Many patients suffer ML in association with ART, but in others ML cannot be explained by presence of ART or CAA. In such patients, autoregulatory changes in blood vessels might be responsible for ML. The association between the extent of CAA and ART suggests shared risk factors for each pathological change.
Systemic progesterone administration results in a partial reversal of the age‐associated decline in CNS remyelination following toxin‐induced demyelination in male rats
Authors: Ibanez C. , Shields S. A. , El‐Etr M. , Baulieu E.‐E. , Schumacher M. , Franklin R. J. M.
Published: January 2004

In order to establish the effects of systemically administered progesterone on central nervous system (CNS) remyelination, a toxin‐induced model of CNS demyelination was used in which the rate of remyelination is age‐dependent. The rapid remyelination in young adult rats allowed an assessment of potential adverse effects of progesterone while the slow remyelination in older adult rats allowed an assessment of its potentially beneficial effects. There was no significant difference in the rate of remyelination between young control and treated animals. However, a modest but significant increase in the extent of oligodendrocyte remyelination in response to progesterone (and a comparable significant decrease in the proportion of axons that remained demyelinated) was observed in older rats 5 weeks after lesion induction. We also found a significant increase in the proportion of Schwann cell remyelinated axons between 3 and 5 weeks after lesion induction that was not apparent in the control animals. These results indicate that progesterone does not inhibit CNS remyelination and that it has a positive modulating effect on oligodendrocyte remyelination in circumstances where it is occurring sub‐optimally.
Nodal, Uterine and Meningeal γδ T‐Cell Lymphomas in Cattle
Authors: Tanaka H. , Takai H. , Sato K. , Ishikawa Y. , Shibahara T. , Kadota K.
Published: January 2004

Three cases of bovine γδ T‐cell lymphoma without skin involvement are described. Case 1 was a 17‐month‐old Holstein heifer with generalized lymphadenopathy. Case 2 was a 4‐year‐old Holstein cow that had multiple tumour masses in the uterine body and horns. Case 3, a 23‐month‐old Holstein bull was presented with generalized tremor, nystagmus and hyperesthaesia, and there were several tumour masses in the meninges. Cases 1 and 2 had epitheliotropic neoplastic infiltrates in the tonsillar epithelium and endometrial glands, respectively. Immunohistochemistry showed CD3+, WC1+, CD79a− lymphoma cells in all cases, and perforin was positive in two cases. Electron‐dense granules were present in many neoplastic cells of all cases. These findings supported the cytotoxic γδ T‐cell origin of the present lymphomas. Bovine γδ T‐cell lymphoma may originate in a wide variety of anatomical sites and may be classified into several histological subtypes.
Reference Intervals and Age‐related Changes for Platelet Count, Mean Platelet Volume and Plateletcrit in Healthy Pre‐weaning Piglets in Italy
Authors: Faustini M. , Bronzo V. , Maffeo G. , Russo V. , Munari E. , Vigo D.
Published: January 2004

Platelet count (PLT) mean platelet volume (MPV) and plateletcrit (PCT) were determined for 117 Landrace × Large White piglets aged 3–21 days; counts were performed with an automated blood cell counter (ABX Pentra 120). Reference values were estimated following the guidelines of the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry (IFCC) and the International Committee for Standardization in Haematology (ICSH). The calculated central 95% reference limits for PLT was 49.9–516.2 × 109/l, for MPV 6.71–9.91 fl and for PCT 0.009–0.395%. When observations are divided into three age groups (about 1 week each) there is an increase in mean PLT count and PCT in 2‐week piglets, and a decrease in MPV from the first to the third week of life. These reference values provide guidelines for interpreting for experimental and clinical observations, as well as for monitoring of the health status of similar aged piglets determined using automated impedance‐light focusing methodology.
Cervimetry and Ultrasonographic Observations of the Cervix Regression in Dairy Cows During the First 10 days Post Partum
Authors: Wehrend A. , Failing K. , Bostedt H.
Published: January 2004

The aim of this study was to describe the involution process of the bovine cervix during the first 10 days post partum by using an intracervically introduced gauge and transrectal ultrasonography. Twenty‐five pluriparous Holstein Friesian cows were included, which were randomized into three groups: group 1 (n = 10): transrectal ultrasonographic presentation of the formation of cervical folds; group 2 (n = 10): measurement of the reduction of the canalis cervicalis using an intracervically introduced gauge. The examinations were performed directly after expulsion and 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 18 and 24 h post partum, and in intervals of 24 h up to the tenth day. The involution process can be divided into four phases: 1: fast reduction up to the sixth hour; 2: protracted reduction up to the second day without constant formation of folds; 3: protracted reduction up to the seventh day with constant formation of folds; 4: re‐opening of the canalis cervicalis maintaining the structure of the folds. The reduction process (phase 1– phase 3) can be shown as the sum of two exponential functions with different grading coefficients: y = reduction 1 × e−b1 × t + reduction 2 × e−b2 × t. Reduction 1 is reduction in cm during the first phase and reduction 2 is reduction in cm during the second and the third phase. Group 3 (n = 5): to exclude an influence of the high frequency of examinations on the involution process the cows were examined immediately after parturition and on the fifth and tenth day post partum using the same method as in groups 1 and 2. In conclusion, the involution process of the bovine cervix guarantees a fast protection of the cavum uteri and a drainage of the lochia at the end of the early puerperium. The re‐opening phase after the seventh day has not yet been described in any other species and can be interpreted as the adaptation to the exsudative puerperium in the cow.
Rigid bronchoscopy for foreign body removal: anaesthesia and ventilation
Authors: Farrell Patrick T.
Published: January 2004

Foreign body aspiration is a leading cause of death in children 1–3 years old, although mortality is low for children who reach the hospital. Presenting symptoms of an inhaled foreign body depends on time since aspiration. Immediately after inhalation the child starts to cough, wheeze, or have laboured breathing. If the early signs are missed, the child usually presents with fever and other signs and symptoms of chest infection. A plain chest X‐ray has relatively low sensitivity and specificity for inhaled foreign body. The gold standard for diagnosis and management of this condition is rigid open tube bronchoscopy under general anaesthesia. For late presentations, time should be taken to fast the child and complete a thorough evaluation before bronchoscopy. The procedure should be performed in a well‐equipped room with at least two anaesthesiologists, one with paediatric experience, in attendance. Most experienced anaesthesiologists prefer inhalational rather than intravenous induction of anaesthesia and a ventilating bronchoscope rather than intubation. Equally good results have been reported with spontaneous ventilation or positive pressure ventilation; jet ventilation is not advocated for foreign body removal in children.
Single‐lung ventilation in infants and children
Authors: Hammer Gregory B.
Published: January 2004

During the past decade, the use of video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has dramatically increased in children as well as adults. Although VATS can be performed while both lungs are being ventilated, single‐lung ventilation (SLV) is desirable during VATS. In addition, anaesthesiologists are performing (and paediatric surgeons are requesting) SLV more frequently for open thoracotomies in infants and children.
Trauma of the larynx and craniofacial structures: airway implications
Authors: Myer Charles M.
Published: January 2004

Laryngeal trauma in children is potentially life‐threatening. An organized approach by all who care for these children in an emergency situation is essential. Prompt recognition and treatment of such injuries will minimize the risk of long‐term complications that would require multiple operative procedures and prolonged rehabilitation.
Prevention and management of complications of airway surgery in children
Authors: Yellon Robert F.
Published: January 2004

Preventing and managing complications of airway surgery in children requires proactive attention to both surgical and anaesthetic aspects of the planned procedure. Preoperative evaluation should include a thorough physical examination and, especially in children with multiple congenital anomalies, flexible fibreoptic nasopharyngolaryngoscopy, direct laryngoscopy and rigid or flexible bronchoscopy. The goal is to identify dynamic abnormalities such as laryngomalacia or vocal cord paralysis, tracheal or bronchial lesions, gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), aspiration, laryngotracheal stenosis, totally obstructing tracheostomy‐associated granulation tissue and Noonan syndrome preoperatively, and then to plan surgical management to achieve the best possible outcome for each patient.
The airway in patients with craniofacial abnormalities
Authors: Nargozian Charles
Published: January 2004

Airway management for patients with craniofacial disorders poses many challenges. The anaesthesiologist must be familiar with the normal bony and soft‐tissue anatomy in the airway and how anatomy is altered by various congenital disorders. Specific areas to assess include the oral cavity, anterior mandibular space, maxilla, temporomandibular joint and vertebral column. Congenital conditions that may alter normal anatomy and therefore anaesthetic management include cleft lip and palate with or without Pierre Robin syndrome, craniofacial dysostosis, mandibulofacial dysostosis/Treacher Collins syndrome, hemifacial microsomia, Klippel‐Feil syndrome, Beckwith‐Wiedemann syndrome, trisomy 21/Down's syndrome, Freeman–Sheldon/whistling face syndrome/craniocarpotarsal dysplasia, fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva, mucopolysaccharidosis and vascular malformations.
Cricoid pressure: indications and complications
Authors: Landsman Ira
Published: January 2004

Cricoid pressure to occlude the upper end of the oesophagus, also called the Sellick manoeuvre, may be used to decrease the risk of pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents during intubation for rapid induction of anaesthesia. Effective and safe use of the technique requires training and experience. Cricoid pressure is contraindicated in patients with suspected cricotracheal injury, active vomiting, or unstable cervical spine injuries. The technique may be particularly difficult in patients with a history of difficult intubation. The recommended pressure to prevent gastric reflux is between 30 and 40 Newtons (N, equivalent to 3–4 kg), but pressures greater than 20 N cause pain and retching in awake patients and a pressure of 40 N can distort the larynx and complicate intubation. The recommended procedure is, therefore, to induce anaesthesia and apply a pressure of about 30 N, either manually or with the cricoid yoke, to facilitate intubation. Reported complications of cricoid pressure during intubation include oesophageal rupture and exacerbation of unsuspected airway injuries.
Liquid ventilation: an adjunct for respiratory management
Authors: Wolfson Marla R. , Shaffer Thomas H.
Published: January 2004

Although significant advances in respiratory care have reduced mortality of patients with respiratory failure, morbidity persists, often resulting from iatrogenic mechanisms. Mechanical ventilation with gas has been shown to initiate as well as exacerbate underlying lung injury, resulting in progressive structural damage and release of inflammatory mediators within the lung. Alternative means to support pulmonary gas exchange while preserving lung structure and function are therefore required. Perfluorochemical (PFC) liquids are currently used clinically in a number of ways, such as intravascular PFC emulsions for volume expansion/oxygen carrying/angiography and intracavitary neat PFC liquid for image contrast enhancement or vitreous fluid replacement. As a novel approach to replace gas as the respiratory medium, liquid assisted ventilation (LAV) with PFC liquids has been investigated as an alternative respiratory modality for over 30 years. Currently, there are several theoretical and practical applications of LAV in the immature or mature lung at risk for acute respiratory distress and injury associated with mechanical ventilation.
Isolation by Language and Distance in Belgium
Authors: Barrai I. , Rodriguez‐Larralde A. , Manni F. , Ruggiero V. , Tartari D. , Scapoli C.
Published: January 2004

The isonymy structure of trilingual Belgium was studied using the surname distributions for 1,118,004 private telephone users. The users were distributed in 77 Flemish, 76 French, and 3 German speaking towns, selected on a geographic basis to form an approximately regular grid over Belgium. Lasker's distance was found to be considerably higher between languages than within languages. For the whole of Belgium, irrespective of language, it was highly correlated with linear geographic distance, with r = 0.721±0.014, which is the highest correlation observed in European countries to date. Within Belgium and within languages, the correlation was highest among the Flemish (r = 0.878 ± 0.007), and lowest among the French (r = 0.631±0.020). Isolation by distance in Belgium is the highest we have found in Europe, and as high as in Switzerland where the different languages are separated by geographical barriers. This is not the case in Belgium, so that the considerable isolating power of languages emerges clearly from the present analysis. From the comparison of Lasker's distance between (9.48) and within (8.16) languages, and from its regression over geographic distance (b = 0.01206), it was possible to establish a quantitative relationship between the isolating power of languages and that of geographic distance as (9.48–8.16)/0.01206 = 109 kilometres. This transformation of language distance into an equivalent geographic distance, given here for Belgium, can be applied to any similar geo‐linguistic situation.
Mitochondrial DNA Sequence Diversity in a Sedentary Population from Egypt
Authors: Stevanovitch A. , Gilles A. , Bouzaid E. , Kefi R. , Paris F. , Gayraud R. P. , Spadoni J. L. , El‐Chenawi F. , Béraud‐Colomb E.
Published: January 2004

The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) diversity of 58 individuals from Upper Egypt, more than half (34 individuals) from Gurna, whose population has an ancient cultural history, were studied by sequencing the control‐region and screening diagnostic RFLP markers.

This sedentary population presented similarities to the Ethiopian population by the L1 and L2 macrohaplogroup frequency (20.6%), by the West Eurasian component (defined by haplogroups H to K and T to X) and particularly by a high frequency (17.6%) of haplogroup M1. We statistically and phylogenetically analysed and compared the Gurna population with other Egyptian, Near East and sub‐Saharan Africa populations; AMOVA and Minimum Spanning Network analysis showed that the Gurna population was not isolated from neighbouring populations.

Our results suggest that the Gurna population has conserved the trace of an ancestral genetic structure from an ancestral East African population, characterized by a high M1 haplogroup frequency. The current structure of the Egyptian population may be the result of further influence of neighbouring populations on this ancestral population.
Molecular Analysis of Myophosphorylase Deficiency in Dutch Patients with McArdle's Disease
Authors: Martín M. A. , Rubio J. C. , Wevers R. A. , Van Engelen B. G. M. , Steenbergen G. C. H. , Van Diggelen O. P. , Visser M. De , Die‐Smulders C. De , Blázquez A. , Andreu A. L. , Arenas J.
Published: January 2004

We report on 8 Dutch patients with McArdle's disease from 6 unrelated families. Molecular analysis revealed the presence of four previously described mutations: the common R49X mutation, the IVS14+1G>A mutation and the recently reported R269X and Y84X nonsense mutations; and two new molecular defects: a missense mutation R138W in the homozygous state in two siblings, and a frameshift mutation c.1797delT. This first genetic study of patients from The Netherlands with McArdle's disease confirms that the R49X mutation is also the most common in Dutch patients, and that there is genetic heterogeneity within this population. Moreover, our data support the hypothesis that the Y84X mutation is a relatively frequent mutation in McArdle's patients with a Central European background, and expand the already crowded map of mutations within the PYGM gene responsible for McArdle's disease.
Tests of Gene‐Environment Interaction for Case‐Parent Triads with General Environmental Exposures
Authors: Lake S. L. , Laird N. M.
Published: January 2004

As knowledge of the human genome continues to grow, more progress is being made towards not only identifying the genes involved in disease susceptibility but also in defining the synergistic role genes play with environmental exposures. The detection of gene‐environment interactions is important as it can offer clinicians a potential means of intervention. The discovery of interactions relies heavily on powerful statistical methods. We present a test, FBAT‐I, that can be used to investigate gene‐environment interaction. The test uses the case‐parent triad design and protects the statistical inference from potential spurious results due to population admixture.
Progesterone and insulin stimulation of CPEB-dependent polyadenylation is regulated by Aurora A and glycogen synthase kinase-3
Authors: Sarkissian Madathia , Mendez Raul , Richter Joel D.
Published: January 2004

Progesterone stimulation of Xenopus oocyte maturation requires the cytoplasmic polyadenylation-induced translation of mos and cyclin B mRNAs. One cis element that drives polyadenylation is the CPE, which is bound by the protein CPEB. Polyadenylation is stimulated by Aurora A (Eg2)-catalyzed CPEB serine 174 phosphorylation, which occurs soon after oocytes are exposed to progesterone. Here, we show that insulin also stimulates Aurora A-catalyzed CPEB S174 phosphorylation, cytoplasmic polyadenylation, translation, and oocyte maturation. However, these insulin-induced events are uniquely controlled by PI3 kinase and PKC-ζ, which act upstream of Aurora A. The intersection of the progesterone and insulin signaling pathways occurs at glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3), which regulates the activity of Aurora A. GSK-3 and Aurora A interact in vivo, and overexpressed GSK-3 inhibits Aurora A-catalyzed CPEB phosphorylation. In vitro, GSK-3 phosphorylates Aurora A on S290/291, the result of which is an autophosphorylation of serine 349. GSK-3 phosphorylated Aurora A, or Aurora A proteins with S290/291D or S349D mutations, have reduced or no capacity to phosphorylate CPEB. Conversely, Aurora A proteins with S290/291A or S349A mutations are constitutively active. These results suggest that the progesterone and insulin stimulate maturation by inhibiting GSK-3, which allows Aurora A activation and CPEB-mediated translation.
Calorie restriction extends yeast life span by lowering the level of NADH
Authors: Lin Su-Ju , Ford Ethan , Haigis Marcia , Liszt Greg , Guarente Leonard
Published: January 2004

Calorie restriction (CR) extends life span in a wide variety of species. Previously, we showed that calorie restriction increases the replicative life span in yeast by activating Sir2, a highly conserved NAD-dependent deacetylase. Here we test whether CR activates Sir2 by increasing the NAD/NADH ratio or by regulating the level of nicotinamide, a known inhibitor of Sir2. We show that CR decreases NADH levels, and that NADH is a competitive inhibitor of Sir2. A genetic intervention that specifically decreases NADH levels increases life span, validating the model that NADH regulates yeast longevity in response to CR.
Formation of amyloid fibrils from fully reduced hen egg white lysozyme
Authors: Cao Aoneng , Hu Daoying , Lai Luhua
Published: January 2004

The fully reduced hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL), which is a good model of random coil structure, has been converted to highly organized amyloid fibrils at low pH by adding ethanol. In the presence of 90% (v/v) ethanol, the fully reduced HEWL adopts β‐sheet secondary structure at pH 4.5 and 5.0, and an α‐to‐β transition is observed at pH 4.0. A red shift of the Congo red absorption spectrum caused by the precipitation of the fully reduced HEWL in the presence of 90% (v/v) ethanol is typical of the presence of amyloid aggregation. EM reveals unbranched fibrils with a diameter of 2–5 nm and as long as 1–2 μm. The pH dependence of the initial structure of the fully reduced HEWL in the presence of 90% (v/v) ethanol suggests that Asp and His residues may play an important role.
An evolutionary route to xylanase process fitness
Authors: Palackal Nisha , Brennan Yali , Callen Walter N. , Dupree Paul , Frey Gerhard , Goubet Florence , Hazlewood Geoffrey P. , Healey Shaun , Kang Young E. , Kretz Keith A. , Lee Edd , Tan Xuqiu , Tomlinson Geoffery L. , Verruto John , Wong Vicky W.K. , Mathur Eric J. , Short Jay M. , Robertson Dan E. , Steer Brian A.
Published: January 2004

Directed evolution technologies were used to selectively improve the stability of an enzyme without compromising its catalytic activity. In particular, this article describes the tandem use of two evolution strategies to evolve a xylanase, rendering it tolerant to temperatures in excess of 90°C. A library of all possible 19 amino acid substitutions at each residue position was generated and screened for activity after a temperature challenge. Nine single amino acid residue changes were identified that enhanced thermostability. All 512 possible combinatorial variants of the nine mutations were then generated and screened for improved thermal tolerance under stringent conditions. The screen yielded eleven variants with substantially improved thermal tolerance. Denaturation temperature transition midpoints were increased from 61°C to as high as 96°C. The use of two evolution strategies in combination enabled the rapid discovery of the enzyme variant with the highest degree of fitness (greater thermal tolerance and activity relative to the wild‐type parent).
Chalcone isomerase family and fold: No longer unique to plants
Authors: Gensheimer Michael , Mushegian Arcady
Published: January 2004

Chalcone isomerase, an enzyme in the isoflavonoid pathway in plants, catalyzes the cyclization of chalcone into (2S)‐naringenin. Chalcone isomerase sequence family and three‐dimensional fold appeared to be unique to plants and has been proposed as a plant‐specific gene marker. Using sensitive methods of sequence comparison and fold recognition, we have identified genes homologous to chalcone isomerase in all completely sequenced fungi, in slime molds, and in many gammaproteobacteria. The residues directly involved in the enzyme's catalytic function are among the best conserved across species, indicating that the newly discovered homologs are enzymatically active. At the same time, fungal and bacterial species that have chalcone isomerase‐like genes tend to lack the orthologs of the upstream enzyme chalcone synthase, suggesting a novel variation of the pathway in these species.
Solution structure of a BolA‐like protein fromMus musculus
Authors: Kasai Takuma , Inoue Makoto , Koshiba Seizo , Yabuki Takashi , Aoki Masaaki , Nunokawa Emi , Seki Eiko , Matsuda Takayoshi , Matsuda Natsuko , Tomo Yasuko , Shirouzu Mikako , Terada Takaho , Obayashi Naomi , Hamana Hiroaki , Shinya Naoko , Tatsuguchi Ayako , Yasuda Satoko , Yoshida Mayumi , Hirota Hiroshi , Matsuo Yo , Tani Kazutoshi , Suzuki Harukazu , Arakawa Takahiro , Carninci Piero , Kawai Jun , Hayashizaki Yoshihide , Kigawa Takanori , Yokoyama Shigeyuki
Published: January 2004

The BolA‐like proteins are widely conserved from prokaryotes to eukaryotes. The BolA‐like proteins seem to be involved in cell proliferation or cell‐cycle regulation, but the molecular function is still unknown. Here we determined the structure of a mouse BolA‐like protein. The overall topology is αββααβα, in which β1and β2are antiparallel, and β3is parallel to β2. This fold is similar to the class II KH fold, except for the absence of the GXXG loop, which is well conserved in the KH fold. The conserved residues in the BolA‐like proteins are assembled on the one side of the protein.
Plate 308. Leontochir ovallei
Authors: Wilkin Paul
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, distribution, ecology and cultivation requirements ofLeontochir ovallei(Alstroemeriaceae), a native of central Chile, are discussed and a full description of the species is provided.
Plate 310. Mossia intervallaris
Authors: Smith Gideon F. , Hartzer Pascale , Van Wyk Abraham E.
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, distribution, ecology, pollination and cultivation requirements ofMossia intervallaris(Mesembryanthemaceae), a rare succulent from southern Africa, are discussed and a full description of the species is provided.
Plate 311. Impatiens kilimanjari subsp. pocsii
Authors: Grimshaw John M. , Grey‐Wilson Christopher
Published: January 2004

Impatiens kilimanjari Oliv. subsp. pocsii Grimshaw & Grey‐Wilson (Balsaminaceae), a new subspecies of this Mt Kilimanjaro endemic, is described and its taxonomy, distribution, ecology and cultivation requirements are discussed. Natural hybrids between this and I. pseudoviola Gilg are also described, as I. × kaskazini Grimshaw & Grey‐Wilson.
Plate 312. Albuca pendula
Authors: Mathew Brian , Collenette Sheila
Published: January 2004

Albuca pendula(Hyacinthaceae) is a very local endemic from south‐western Saudi Arabia; its taxonomy, distribution, ecology and cultivation requirements are discussed and a full description of the species is provided.
Plate 325. Zollernia splendens
Authors: Lewis Gwilym , Foster Clive
Published: January 2004

The history, taxonomy, distribution, habitat and cultivation requirements of the unusual Brazilian woody legume Zollernia splendens Wied‐Neuw. & Nees are discussed; a full botanical description, watercolour illustration and dissection drawings are also provided.
Plate 326. Abarema idiopoda
Authors: Rico Arce M.de L. , Cooke David
Published: January 2004

The history, taxonomy, distribution, habitat and cultivation requirements of Abarema idiopoda (Leguminosae), a native of the New World, are discussed; a full botanical description and illustrations are also provided.
Plate 328. Crotalaria quinquefolia
Authors: Polhill Roger
Published: January 2004

The history, taxonomy, distribution, habitat and cultivation requirements of the tropical Asian Crotalaria quinquefolia (Leguminosae) are discussed, a full botanical description is provided and there are accompanying illustrations.
Plate 329. Indigofera jucunda
Authors: Schrire Brian , Nichols Geoff , Sparrow Mark , Staniforth Martin
Published: January 2004

The history, taxonomy, distribution and habitat of Indigofera jucunda (Leguminosae) from southern Africa are discussed; a full botanical description and illustrations are provided and there are details of cultivation requirements.
Plate 330. Sophora toromiro
Authors: Mackinder Barbara , Staniforth Martin
Published: January 2004

The history and taxonomy of Sophoro toromiro Skottsb. (Leguminosae), a native of Easter Island now thought to be extinct in the wild, are discussed; there is a full botanical description, a colour plate and other illustrations, and cultivation requirements are provided.
The Leguminosae of Madagascar
Authors: Du Puy David
Published: January 2004

A revision of the Leguminosae of Madagascar is soon to be completed, covering some 670 species (c. 565 native to Madagascar of which 449 endemic) including 6 new genera and 121 new species. It has provided the basis for a pilot project applying computer mapping (GIS) to the investigation of ecological parameters which determine the extent of species distributions. Vegetation maps, based on these parameters, are being used for planning and managing the conservation of biodiversity in Madagascar.
Plate 332. Corydalis flexuosa
Authors: Gardner David
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, distribution, ecology and cultivation requirements of Corydalis flexuosa (Papaveraceae), a native of western Sichuan, China, are discussed; there is a full description of the species and its cultivars, accompanied by a colour plate and other illustrations.
Introduction to the NCCPG: Conservation in action
Authors: Pattison Graham , Cook Linda
Published: January 2004

The aims and achievements of the National Council for the Conservation of Plants & Gardens (NCCPG) and its National Collections Scheme are described.
Plate 341. Robus rosifolius ‘Coronarius’
Authors: Brown Bob
Published: January 2004

The history, garden value and cultivation requirements of Robus rosifolius‘Coronarius’ (Rosaceae) are discussed. This very ornamental variant of the species, selected for its ‘double’ flowers which have many extra petals, is probably of considerable antiquity. An account of its disappearance from cultivation in Britain, and its subsequent re‐introduction, is given, and a colour illustration is provided.
Plants in Peril, 24: Abeliophyllum distichum
Authors: Kim Yong Shik , Maunder Mike
Published: January 2004

The conservation status of Abeliophyllum distichum Nakai (Oleaceae) is reviewed.
Plate 344. Arctostaphylos glauca
Authors: Mathew Brian
Published: January 2004

The history, taxonomy, distribution, habitat and cultivation of the western North American shrub Arctostaphylos glauca Lindley (Ericaceae) are discussed; a botanical description and illustrations are also provided.
Plate 347. Cyclamen colchicum
Authors: Grey‐Wilson Christopher , Wilford Richard
Published: January 2004

The history, taxonomy, distribution, habitat and cultivation of the little‐known Cyclamen colchicum (Alboff) Alboff (Primulaceae) are discussed; a botanical description, watercolour drawing and dissection drawings are also provided.
Plate 350. Roscoea capitata
Authors: Cowley Jill , Wilford Richard
Published: January 2004

The history, taxonomy, distribution, ecology and cultivation requirements of Roscoea capitata (Zingiberaceae), a native of central Nepal, are discussed; the species is illustrated and a full description is provided.
Plate 351. Ranunculus weberbaueri
Authors: Gardner David
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, distribution, ecology and cultivation requirements of Ranunculus weberbaueri (Ulbr.) Lourteig (Ranunculaceae), a native of Peru, are discussed and a full description of the species is provided.
Plate 361. Lycoris sanguinea
Authors: Mathew Brian
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, relationships, distribution and cultural requirements of the Japanese Lycoris sanguinea Maxim. (Amaryllidaceae) are discussed; an illustration is provided, together with a full description of the species.
Plate 362. Papaver fauriei
Authors: Gardner David
Published: January 2004

The taxonomic history, relationship, distribution and cultural requirements of Papaver fauriei (Fedde) Tatew. & Miyabe (Papaveraceae), a rare endemic of the Japanese island of Rishiri, are discussed; an illustration is provided, together with a full description of the species.
Plate 363. Callicarpa japonica
Authors: Atkins Sandy
Published: January 2004

The history, taxonomy, distribution and cultivation of the eastern Asiatic shrub Callicarpa japonica Thunb. (Labiatae) are discussed; the species is illustrated and a full description is provided.
Plate 364. Arisaema kiushianum
Authors: Boyce Peter
Published: January 2004

The taxonomic history, relationships, distribution and cultural requirements of Arisaema kiushianum Makino (Araceae), a Japanese species endemic to Kyushu, are discussed; a full description of the species is provided and a discussion of generic synonyms of Arisaema is presented.
Plate 366. Cymbidium kanran
Authors: Cribb Phillip , Bell Sandra
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, relationships, distribution and cultural requirements of the Sino‐Japanese Cymbidium kanran Makino (Orchidaceae) are discussed; an illustration is provided, together with a full description of the species.
Plate 371. Cryptomeria japonica
Authors: Farjon Aljos
Published: January 2004

The history, distribution, taxonomy, habitat and cultivation requirements of Cryptomeria japonica (Thunb. ex L.f.) D. Don (Cupressaceae), which is considered endemic to Japan, are discussed; a full description with illustrations of the species is provided.
Plate 375. Phaius pulchellus var. sandrangatensis
Authors: Hermans Johan
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, history, habitat and cultivation of the Madagascan endemic Phaius pulchellus var. sandrangatensis Bosser (Orchidaceae) are discussed. Illustrations and a full description of the variety are provided and the variability of the species is considered. Its position within the Phaius‐Gastrorchis complex is outlined.
Plate 377. Rhaphidophora glauca
Authors: Boyce Peter
Published: January 2004

The taxonomic and nomenclatural history, distribution and cultural requirements of Rhaphidophora glauca (Wall.) Schott (Araceae), an aroid liane native to the subtropical and warm temperate regions of the eastern Himalaya, are discussed; illustrations and a description of the species are provided together with a brief overview of Rhaphidophora in the eastern Himalaya.
Plate 378. Corydalis aitchisonii
Authors: Gardner David
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, distribution, ecology and cultivation requirements of Corydalis aitchisonii Popov (Papaveraceae), a native of Central Asia, are discussed; a full description and illustrations of the species are provided.
Plate 380. Amorphophallus kiusianus
Authors: Hettersheid Wilbert L. A.
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, relationships, distribution, and cultural requirements of Amorphophallus kiusianus (Makino) Makino (Araceae), a tuberous aroid from mainland China, Taiwan and southern Japan, are discussed. The species is illustrated and a botanical description is provided.
Plate 381. Alocasia nebula
Authors: Hay A.
Published: January 2004

A spectacular new Bornean species of Alocasia, A. nebula A. Hay, is described and illustrated in colour. Notes on its relationships, origin and cultural requirements are provided.
Plate 382. Fritillaria davidii
Authors: Rix Martyn , Mathew Brian
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, relationships, distribution and cultural requirements of the Chinese Fritillaria davidii Franch. (Liliaceae), a species only recently introduced into cultivation in Britain and still very rare, are discussed; an illustration is provided, together with a full description.
Plate 389. Campanula betulifolia
Authors: Güner Adil , Wilford Richard
Published: January 2004

A brief account of the history, taxonomy, relationships, distribution, habitat and cultivation of Campanula betulifolia C.Koch (Campanulaceae), a native of Turkey and the Caucasus, is provided, together with a detailed description and illustration.
Plate 402. Jumellea walleri
Authors: La Croix Isobyl
Published: January 2004

The history, taxonomy, distribution, habitat and cultivation requirements of the African Jumellea walleri (Rolfe) la Croix (Orchidaceae) are discussed; a full description of the species and illustrations are provided.
Plate 403. Alocasia alba
Authors: Hay A. , Yuzammi
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, history, horticultural value and cultivation requirements of Alocasia alba Schott (Araceae) are discussed; a full description is given and a watercololour illustration is provided.
Plate 404. Viola hederacea
Authors: Clennett Chris
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, distribution and cultural requirements of the Australian Viola hederacea Labill. (Violaceae) are discussed; illustrations are provided, together with a full description.
Plate 407. Begonia goudotii
Authors: Sands Martin J. S.
Published: January 2004

The taxonomic history, relationships, distribution, ecology and cultural requirements of Begonia goudotii A.DC., are reviewed. This species, which is endemic to Madagascar and especially notable for its large basal leaves (usually solitary in the wild), is described and floral diagnoses are presented.
Plate 408. Lachenalia elegans var. flava
Authors: Duncan Graham
Published: January 2004

The history, taxonomy, distribution and cultivation requirements of the South African Lachenalia elegans W.F.Barker var. flava W.F.Barker (Hyacinthaceae) are discussed; a full botanical description and illustrations are provided.
Plate 409. Crassula tetragona subsp. acutifolia
Authors: Smith Gideon F. , Steyn Elsie M. A. , Van Wyk Abraham E.
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, distribution and cultivation requirements of Crassula tetragona L. subsp. acutifolia (Lam.) Tölken (Crassulaceae), a common but inconspicuous miniature and mat‐forming succulent from the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, are discussed and a full description of the subspecies is provided.
Plate 412. Lilium medeoloides
Authors: Mathew Brian
Published: January 2004

The taxonomy, distribution, history of introduction to Western gardens and method of cultivation of the Japanese Lilium medeoloides A. Gray (Liliaceae) are discussed; a full description, a watercolour portrait and dissection drawings are provided.