bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical characteristics, prognostic factors and multidrug‐resistance related protein expression in 36 adult patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia
Authors: Candoni Anna , Damiani Daniela , Michelutti Angela , Masolini Paola , Michieli Mariagrazia , Michelutti Teresa , Geromin Antonella , Fanin Renato
Published: June 2003

Abstract: We report on a single‐center experience about the characteristics and outcome of 36 acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) patients observed at our Department of Hematology between 1990 and 2002. The expression, of multidrug‐resistance (MDR) associated proteins (PGP, LRP, MRP1) was also analyzed. There were 12 males and 24 females (median age 37 yr), 89% (32 of 36) with classic morphology, and 11% (four of 36) with a microgranular variant. Risk class (according to GIMEMA/PETHEMA): 25% (nine of 36) high risk (HR), 53% (nineteen of 36) intermediate risk (IR), 22% (eight of 36) low risk (LR). PGP, LRP, and MRP1 expression at onset and at first relapse was low. CD33 antigen expression was high in all cases. The patients were treated according to GIMEMA protocols (LAP0389 and AIDA) including ATRA in induction in 75% (27 of 36) of cases and 94% (34 of 36) achieved a complete remission (CR) after induction therapy while 6% (two of 36) died early (DDI) of hemorrhage. Outcome: 71% (24 of 34) of evaluable patients remain in CR at a median follow‐up of 57 months (range 4–158 months) while 29% (10 of 34) relapsed at a median time of 12 months (range 8–43 months) and, of them, eight of 10 died early. The majority of patients that relapsed were in high‐risk group. The overall survival (OS) of the whole population at 32 months was 66% and the DFS at 42 months was 62%. A statistically significant difference in terms of DFS was observed between HR and IR/LR patients (P = 0.04 by log‐rank). DFS was not affected by age, sex, Hb levels, karyotype, and BCR isoform. At conclusion, our data confirm that despite the high rate of success with ATRA plus chemotherapy as induction (more than 90% of CR), about 30% of APL patients have a relapse (without a long‐lasting second remission) and underline the importance of patient stratification in distinct risk groups at diagnosis in order to better adapt the type and intensity of treatment (risk‐adapted therapy). Taking into account the high expression of CD33 and the low expression of MDR proteins in APL, new and investigational approaches like gemtuzumab–ozogamicin, with or without ATRA and other new drugs, should be strongly considered expecially in HR APL.
Involvement of FGF‐2 in the action of Emdogain® on normal human osteoblastic activity
Authors: Mizutani S , Tsuboi T , Tazoe M , Koshihara Y , Goto S , Togari A
Published: June 2003

Objective: The present study was designed to evaluate the pharmacological characteristics of Emdogain (EMD) on cell growth and cell activity in human osteoblasts.

Methods: Cell proliferation as well as several gene and protein expressions were examined using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) procedures in human osteoblastic cells (SaM‐1) treated with EMD (30 μg ml−1).

Results: Treatment of osteoblasts with EMD significantly stimulated cell proliferation and fibroblast growth factor (FGF)‐2 expression but decreased alkaline phosphatase expression. In addition, increases in cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2 expression and decreases in matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)‐1 expression were observed in osteoblasts treated with EMD. The effects of EMD on FGF‐2 and MMP‐1 expressions were not observed in osteoblasts treated with NS‐398, an inhibitor of COX‐2. The decrease in MMP‐1 mRNA by EMD was prevented by treatment with antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (AS‐ODN) for FGF‐2.

Conclusion: Emdogain showing both stimulation of cell proliferation and inhibition of cell differentiation has been shown to increase FGF‐2 expression in the mediation of prostaglandin E2 and to decrease MMP‐1 mRNA expression through the activation of FGF‐2. FGF‐2 may underlie in the action of EMD on osteoblasts during periodontal regeneration.
Drug effects on salivary glands: dry mouth
Authors: Scully CBE C
Published: June 2003

Objective: To identify drugs associated with the complaint of dry mouth.

Materials and Methods: MEDLINE was searched for papers 1980–2002 using keywords, oral, mouth, salivary, drugs, dry mouth and xerostomia, and relevant secondary references were hand‐searched.

Results: Evidence was forthcoming for a number of xerogenic drugs, especially antimuscarinic agents, some sympathomimetic agents, and agents affecting serotonin and noradrenaline uptake, as well as a miscellany of other drugs such as appetite suppressants, protease inhibitors and cytokines.

Conclusion: Dry mouth has a variety of possible causes but drugs – especially those with anticholinergic activity against the M3 muscarinic receptor – are the most common cause of reduced salivation.
Sequence architecture and carbonate platform configuration (Late Cenomanian–Santonian), Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Bauer Jan , Kuss Jochen , Steuber Thomas
Published: June 2003

AbstractRelative sea‐level changes on the mixed carbonate–siliciclastic platform of Sinai are manifested in shifts of distinct facies belts (deep‐water facies, high‐energy subtidal, shallow subtidal, lagoon, shallow shoreface siliciclastics, supratidal) and are interpreted in terms of sequence stratigraphy. Eight sedimentary sequences are recognized for the Upper Cenomanian to Santonian. Their correlation along a north–south transect reveals distinct changes in lithofacies and progradation/retrogradation patterns within the individual systems tracts. The number and stratigraphy of the sequence boundaries of Sinai correlate well with those from adjacent areas. Patterns of increased subsidence are documented for the Central Sinai Basin since the Late Cenomanian by increased thickness of the stratal packages (post‐CeSin 7 HST, post‐TuSin 1 LST and HST, post‐TuSin 2 LST) and are balanced by varying accumulation rates. Based on new sedimentological and biostratigraphic data, large‐scale palaeogeographic maps and cross‐sections show the: (1) temporal and spatial evolution of the Central Sinai Basin, e.g. its latest Cenomanian initial formation, Lower Turonian deep‐water facies, Middle Turonian to Coniacian synsedimentary subsidence; (2) drowning of the Cenomanian platform coinciding with the latest Cenomanian to Early Turonian relative sea‐level rise; (3) re‐establishment of the platform in Middle–Late Turonian times; and (4) a Coniacian basin and swell morphology.
Architecture of coastal and alluvial deposits in an extensional basin: the Carboniferous Joggins Formation of eastern Canada
Authors: Davies S. J. , Gibling M. R.
Published: June 2003

Abstract The Joggins Formation was deposited in the Cumberland Basin, which experienced rapid mid‐Carboniferous subsidence on bounding faults. A 600 m measured section of coastal and alluvial plain strata comprises cycles tens to hundreds of metres thick. The cycles commence with coal and fossiliferous limestone/siltstone intervals, interpreted as widespread flooding events. These intervals are overlain by coarsening‐upward successions capped by planar‐based sandstone mounds, up to 100 m in width that represent the progradation of small, river‐generated delta lobes into a standing body of open water developed during transgression. The overlying strata contain sand‐rich heterolithic packages, 1–8 m thick, that are associated with channel bodies 2–3 m thick and 10–50 m wide. Drifted plant debris, Calamites groves and erect lycopsid trees are preserved within these predominantly green‐grey heterolithic sediments, which were deposited on a coastal wetland or deltaic plain traversed by channel systems. The cycles conclude with red siltstones, containing calcareous nodules, that are interbedded with thin sandstones and associated with both single‐storey channel bodies (1–1·5 m thick and 2–3 m wide) and larger, multistorey channels (3–6 m thick) with incised margins. Numerous channel bodies at the same level suggest that multiple‐channel, anastomosed river systems were developed on a well‐drained floodplain. Many minor flooding surfaces divide the strata into parasequences with dominantly progradational and aggradational stacking patterns. Multistorey channel bodies are relatively thin, fine grained and modestly incised, and palaeosols are immature and cumulative. The abundance and prominence of flooding surfaces suggests that base‐level rise was enhanced, whereas the lack of evidence for abrupt basinward stepping of facies belts, coupled with the absence of strong fluvial incision and mature palaeosols, suggests that base‐level fall was suppressed. These architectural features are considered to reflect a tectonic architectural signature, in accordance with the high‐subsidence basinal setting. Evidence for restricted marine influence and variation in floral assemblages suggests modulation by eustatic and climatic effects, although their relative importance is uncertain.
Deep‐water sediment wave fields, bottom current sand channels and gravity flow channel‐lobe systems: Gulf of Cadiz, NE Atlantic
Authors: Habgood Edward L. , Kenyon Neil H. , Masson Douglas G. , Akhmetzhanov Andrey , Weaver Philip P. E. , Gardner Joan , Mulder Thierry
Published: June 2003

Abstract A study of the seafloor of the Gulf of Cadiz west of the Strait of Gibraltar, using an integrated geophysical and sedimentological data set, gives new insights into sediment deposition from downslope thermohaline bottom currents. In this area, the Mediterranean Outflow (MO) begins to mix with North Atlantic waters and separates into alongslope geostrophic and downslope ageostrophic components. Changes in bedform morphology across the study area indicate a decrease in the peak velocity of the MO from >1 m s−1 to <0·5 m s−1. The associated sediment waves form a continuum from sand waves to muddy sand waves to mud waves. A series of downslope‐oriented channels, formed by the MO, are found where the MO starts to descend the continental slope at a water depth of ≈700 m. These channels are up to 40 km long, have gradients of <0·5°, a fairly constant width of ≈2 km and a depth of ≈75 m. Sand waves move down the channels that have mud wave‐covered levees similar to those seen in turbidite channel–levee systems, although the channel size and levee thickness do not decrease downslope as in typical turbidite channel systems. The channels terminate abruptly where the MO lifts off the seafloor. Gravity flow channels with lobes on the basin floor exist downslope from several of the bottom current channels. Each gravity flow system has a narrow, slightly sinuous channel, up to 20 m deep, feeding a depositional lobe up to 7 km long. Cores from the lobes recovered up to 8·5 m of massive, well‐sorted, fine sand, with occasional mud clasts. This work provides an insight into the complex facies patterns associated with strong bottom currents and highlights key differences between bottom current and gravity flow channel–levee systems. The distribution of sand within these systems is of particular interest, with applications in understanding the architecture of hydrocarbon reservoirs formed in continental slope settings.
Environmental history of the south‐eastern South Atlantic since the Middle Miocene: evidence from the sedimentological records of ODP Sites 1088 and 1092
Authors: Diekmann Bernhard , Fälker Mareike , Kuhn Gerhard
Published: June 2003

ABSTRACT During Leg 177 of the Ocean Drilling Program (ODP), well‐preserved Middle Miocene to Pleistocene carbonate‐rich sediment records were recovered on a north–south transect through the south‐eastern Atlantic sector of the Southern Ocean at Site 1088 on the Agulhas Ridge and Site 1092 on Meteor Rise. Both sites were dominated by the deposition of calcareous nannofossil oozes through the Miocene, indicating low biological productivity in warm to temperate surface waters. A continuous increase in the proportions of foraminifera since the latest Miocene (6·5 Ma) points to enhanced nutrient supply, possibly related to the global ‘biogenic bloom’ event across the Miocene–Pliocene boundary. Since the Late Pliocene, different styles of biological productivity developed between the sites. Enhanced deposition of biosiliceous constituents at the southern Site 1092, particularly in the Early Pleistocene, is consistent with the formation of the Circum‐Antarctic Opal Belt since 2·5 Ma in a setting near the Polar Front, whereas carbonate deposition still prevailed at the northern Site 1088 situated near the Subtropical Front. Clay‐mineral tracers of water‐mass advection together with the pattern of sedimentation rates and hiatuses reflect distinct pulses in the development of regional ocean circulation between 14 and 12 Ma, around 8 Ma and since 2·8 Ma. These pulses can be related to Antarctic ice‐sheet extension that mediates the production and flow of southern source water, and stepwise increases in North Atlantic Deep Water production that drives global conveyor circulation. At Site 1088, illite chemistry and silt/clay ratios of the terrigenous sediment fraction reflect the history of terrestrial climate in southern Africa, with humid conditions prior to the Early Late Miocene (9·7 Ma), followed by a dry episode until 7·7 Ma. The latest Miocene and Early Pliocene were characterized by a humid episode until modern aridity was established in the Late Pliocene between 4·0 and 2·8 Ma. These climate changes were related to the latitudinal migration of climate belts in response to tectonically caused reorganizations in atmospheric and ocean circulation.
Spit‐platform temperate carbonates: the origin of landward‐downlapping beds along a basin margin (Lower Pliocene, Carboneras Basin, SE Spain)
Authors: Braga J. C. , Betzler C. , Martín J. M. , Aguirre J.
Published: June 2003

ABSTRACT Lower Pliocene temperate carbonates exhibit landward‐downlapping beds at the southern margin of the Carboneras Basin in south‐eastern Spain. This rarely documented stratal geometry resulted from the accumulation of bedded bioclastic carbonate sand and gravel by longshore currents along a spit platform located a few hundred metres from the palaeoshoreline. The top of the spit platform was covered by shoals that extended over a gently dipping ramp inclined to the north. On the landward slope of the spit, sediments washed over from the shoal area were deposited in parallel‐laminated beds with a southward dip of 8–11°. These beds aggraded and retrograded after an increase in accommodation space, probably related to an Early Pliocene eustatic sea‐level rise. As a result, the beds downlap onto the underlying unconformity surface in a shoreward direction. Eventually, the depression between the shoreline and the spit platform was filled, and a gentle ramp became established. These Pliocene exposures in the Carboneras Basin and a similar Upper Miocene example in southern Spain suggest that landward‐downlapping stratal geometries can be expected in nearshore temperate carbonates along basin margins, and demonstrate a similarity in sedimentary dynamics to siliciclastic sands and gravels.
The spatial distribution and source of arsenic, copper, tin and zinc within the surface sediments of the Fal Estuary, Cornwall, UK
Authors: Pirrie Duncan , Power Matthew R. , Rollinson Gavyn , Camm G. Simon , Hughes Susan H. , Butcher Alan R. , Hughes Peta
Published: June 2003

ABSTRACT Estuarine sediments commonly form major sinks for contaminants released during industrial activity. Many industrial processes lead to the release of metals initially in solution, which can then be adsorbed on to, for example, Fe hydroxides or clay minerals. However, in the mining industry, there are two major contaminant waste streams: (1) metals discharged in solution via mine drainage; and (2) particulate grains of the ore‐forming or related minerals released after ore processing. The release of particulate waste can have a major long‐term impact on environmental geochemistry. In this study, we have mapped the distribution of arsenic, copper, tin and zinc within the surficial sediments of the Fal Estuary, Cornwall, UK, an area that drains a historically important polymetallic mining district. There are clear spatial variations in the contaminants, with the highest levels (> 2800 p.p.m. As, > 5000 p.p.m. Cu, > 3000 p.p.m. Sn and > 6000 p.p.m. Zn) within Restronguet Creek on the western side of the estuary. Mineralogical studies show that small (< 20 µm) grains of detrital arsenopyrite, chalcopyrite, cassiterite and sphalerite are very abundant within the surface sediments. Most of the sulphide grains are fractured, but mineralogically unaltered, although some grains show alteration rims caused by oxidation of the sulphides. The geochemistry and mineralogy are indicative of sediment supply from the discharge of particulate waste into the estuary during historical mining activity. Subsequently, this particulate waste has been largely physically and biologically reworked within the surface sediments. Although considerable effort has been made to minimize contaminants released via mine drainage into the estuary, the potential flux of contaminants present within the intertidal and subtidal sediments has not been addressed. Benthic invertebrates living within the area have adapted to be metal tolerant, and it is likely that the dominant source of bioavailable metals is a result of alteration of the particulate mine waste present within the intertidal and subtidal sediments.
A new host plant species for the cassava biotype of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hom., Aleyrodidae)
Authors: Thompson W. M. O.
Published: June 2003

Abstract:  The cassava biotype of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) is known to colonize cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) whereas the sweet potato biotype colonizes various plant and weed species but not cassava. Both biotypes have Solanum melongena L. and Solanum aethiopicum L. as common host plant species. This study shows for the first time that both biotypes can successfully feed, survive and reproduce on a new host plant species, Nicotiana debneyi Domin. These findings have important implications for better understanding the disease epidemics, related to whitefly transmissible geminiviruses.
Effects of two neem insecticide formulations on the attractiveness, acceptability and suitability of diamondback moth larvae to the parasitoid, Diadegma mollipla (Holmgren) (Hym., Ichneumonidae)
Authors: Akol A. M. , Njagi P. G. N. , Sithanantham S. , Mueke J. M.
Published: June 2003

Abstract:  Behavioural responses of female Diadegma mollipla to volatiles from cabbage plants and host‐infested [Plutella xylostella (L.)] cabbage plants sprayed with two neem insecticide formulations were investigated in a Y‐tube olfactometer. Parasitoids were significantly more attracted to volatiles from cabbage and host‐infested cabbage sprayed with the powder formulation than to clean air. In contrast, parasitoid response to volatiles from cabbage and host‐infested cabbage sprayed with the oil formulation was not significantly different from clean air. In choice tests between infested plants sprayed with water (control) or the powder formulation, parasitoids showed no preference for volatiles from either of the treatments. In similar tests with the oil formulation, parasitoids showed a preference for volatiles from control plants over plants sprayed with the oil formulation. In host acceptance and suitability tests, parasitism rates in the neem‐ and water‐sprayed hosts were, with one exception, not significantly different. However, the neem‐sprayed larvae died earlier than control larvae and were therefore not able to support parasitoid development. The implication of these findings for the combined use of neem insecticides and parasitoids in the management of P. xylostella is discussed.
Fall risk assessment: A prospective investigation of nurses’ clinical judgement and risk assessment tools in predicting patient falls
Authors: Myers Helen , Nikoletti Sue
Published: June 2003

A prospective cohort study was used to determine the reliability and validity of two fall risk assessment tools and nurses’ clinical judgement in predicting patient falls. The study wards comprised two aged care and rehabilitation wards within a 570 bed acute care tertiary teaching hospital in Western Australia. Instrument testing included test‐retest reliability and calculations of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy. The test retest reliability of all methods was good. In this setting, the three methods of assessing fall risk showed good sensitivity but poor specificity. Also, all methods had limited accuracy, and overall, exhibited an inability to adequately discriminate between patient populations at risk of falling and those not at risk of falling. Consequently, neither nurses’ clinical judgement nor the fall risk assessment tools could be recommended for assessing fall risk in this clinical setting.
Associations between psychosocial factors and happiness among school adolescents
Authors: Natvig Gerd Karin , Albrektsen Grethe , Qvarnstrøm Ulla
Published: June 2003

The concept of health contains aspects of social and mental well‐being and not just the absence of disease. The concept of well‐being is sometimes used interchangeably with the term happiness, although focus has been on other aspects as well. Here we explore associations between happiness and experience of stress at school, personal and social factors among 887 Norwegian school adolescents participating in a World Health Organization project on health‐promoting schools. Happiness was measured by a one item question (ordered responses 1–4). The psychosocial factors were represented by an average score of 3–12 items. Odds ratios of feeling very/quite happy were calculated in multiple logistic regression analyses. An increasing degree of stress experience reduced the feeling of happiness significantly. Furthermore, increasing levels of general self‐efficacy increased the odds of feeling happy, whereas the more specific measure of school self‐efficacy showed no independent effect. Social support from teachers also enhanced happiness significantly. A less consistent pattern was found for support from peers, but the most happy pupils experienced significantly more support than pupils who reported being unhappy. No significant trend was found with decision control. We also explored associations between happiness and psychosomatic symptoms. Pupils feeling unhappy reported a particular symptom more often and they also had the highest mean number of reported symptoms. To evaluate whether these health indicators represent different dimensions of health, a comparison of strength of associations with common risk factors is made. Implications for health promotion practice are discussed.
Operation Safe Haven: The needs of nurses caring for refugees
Authors: Griffiths Rhonda , Emrys Elisabeth , Finney Lamb Cathryn , Eagar Sandy , Smith Mitchell
Published: June 2003

Nurses played a significant role in providing care to Kosovar and East Timorese refugees at the East Hills Reception Centre in Sydney, Australia, during Operation Safe Haven in 1999–2000. To ascertain the needs of nurses in this setting, 13 nurses participated in two focus group interviews, and two in‐depth interviews were conducted with nursing managers. Qualitative thematic analysis was conducted on the resulting transcripts. Nurses reported that, overall, they had the necessary clinical skills but needed specific refugee health profiles and training in culturally competent and trauma‐sensitive care. The nurses experienced trauma‐related, cultural, environmental and role‐related stressors. They used a variety of informal psychosocial supports but reported the need for ongoing counselling and debriefing. While clinical skills were considered important, nurses identified other factors as having more impact on their ability to provide comprehensive care for traumatized refugees, particularly their role as client advocates.
A conceptual framework for person‐centred practice with older people
Authors: McCormack Brendan
Published: June 2003

This paper presents a conceptual framework for person‐centred practice with older people. The research from which the framework was developed was guided by hermeneutic philosophy and integrated processes of conversation analysis and reflective conversation in data collection and analysis. The research findings suggested that nurses need to be able to particularize the person that the patient is, the relationship that exists between them and the patient, and the understandings and expectations implicit in the relationship. From these findings a conceptual framework for person‐centred practice was developed. In the framework, person‐centredness is premised on the concept of authentic consciousness and is operationalized through five imperfect duties. The factors that enable person‐centredness to operate in practice are identified as the patient's values, the nurse's values and the context of the care environment. Considerations for implementing the model in practice are highlighted.
Thromboprophylaxis in laparoscopic abdominal surgery
Authors: Meshikhes Abdul‐Wahed N.
Published: June 2003

Background:  Since the introduction of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, there has been a great concern regarding the increased risk of thromboembolism following laparoscopic surgery. However, in the absence of clear guidelines, the use of thromboprophylaxis in laparoscopic abdominal surgery is controversial.

Methods:  The evidence for and against routine and selective thromboprophylaxis in patients undergoing laparoscopic abdominal procedures was reviewed based mainly on published British and Danish surveys, together with the author's own survey. An attempt was made to come up with a generally‐accepted protocol for thromboprophylaxis in laparoscopic surgery.

Results:  Less thromboembolic events were encountered by laparoscopic surgeons who adopt routine thromboprophylaxis. More thromboembolic events following laparoscopic abdominal surgery were encountered by surgeons adopting selective thromboprophylaxis policy.

Conclusion:  Routine thromboprophylaxis seems to be more effective in protection against thromboembolism. However, this warrants further confirmation by prospective randomized trials.
Superior mesenteric artery syndrome: Report of two patients and review of the literature
Authors: Alabkari Hussien Ali , Aljaroof Abdullah Hassan
Published: June 2003

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome is a rare disease that should be considered in the differential diagnosis of upper abdominal pain, vomiting and weight loss. Compression of the third part of the duodenum between the superior mesenteric artery anteriorly and the aorta and the spinal cord posteriorly may result in high intestinal obstruction. Surgical treatment with duodenojejunostomy is indicated if proper conservative treatment has failed. Two patients are reported in the present case. One patient presented with acute surgical abdomen, which was an unusual presentation of superior mesenteric artery syndrome, while the second patient had classic features of the syndrome. Both patients were successfully treated with duodenojejunostomy. The pathophysiology, clinical presentation, investigation and management of this condition are discussed.
The rice blast pathosystem as a case study for the development of new tools and raw materials for genome analysis of fungal plant pathogens
Authors: K. Mitchell Thomas , Thon Michael R. , Jeong Jun–Seop , Brown Doug , Deng Jixin , Dean Ralph A.
Published: June 2003

Fungi have an astounding and diverse impact on this planet. While they are agents of human diseases and the cause of allergic reactions, factories for the conversion of carbon in environmental and industrially adapted systems, and potential biological weapons, their importance as plant pathogens is unparalleled. In plants alone, fungi cause tens of thousands of different diseases and are responsible for massive losses of food, fiber and forestry at an estimated annual cost of hundreds of billions of dollars. These losses are not only realized in the incomes of individual farmers and state economies, but contribute significantly to world hunger problems and issues relating to safeguarding a global food supply. Our collective understanding of how fungi, particularly plant pathogens, grow, reproduce, identify a host and cause disease is still at a formative stage. There is an equal lack of detailed knowledge about how a plant recognizes that it is being attacked and then mounts an adequate defense response. The advent of genomic technologies has given researchers an unprecedented opportunity to address these mysteries in a powerful and more holistic manner. Where the genetic revolution of only a few years ago allowed for the characterization of single genes, today's genomic technologies are facilitating the evaluation of the entire complement of genes in an organism and the discovery of the suites of genes that act during any one time or particular condition. This review will describe the recent development of tools for whole or partial genome analysis and multigenome comparisons. Th discussion focuses on the rice blast pathosystem as a case study.
Fine scale distribution of ectomycorrhizal fungi and roots across substrate layers including coarse woody debris in a mixed forest
Authors: Tedersoo Leho , Kõljalg Urmas , Hallenberg Nils , Larsson Karl‐Henrik
Published: June 2003

• Ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi are widespread plant root symbionts in boreal forests, but information is lacking on the fine scale distribution of roots and fungi in substrate patches of different quality, including coarse woody debris (CWD).

• Wood and soil cores were taken systematically both horizontally and vertically through decayed logs and underlying soil layers in a mixed forest. Root tips were counted and ECM fungi identified by morphotyping and sequencing.

• The abundance of root tips and ECM fungi was highly variable on a 5‐cm scale. Most species were replaced on a 50‐cm scale. Detrended correspondence analysis demonstrated strong preference of resupinate thelephoroid and athelioid fungi and Sebacinaceae for CWD, whereas ascomycetes and euagarics appeared more frequently in mineral soil. Clavulicium delectabile was determined to be an ECM fungus for the first time.

• ECM fungi occupy different niches and show variable distribution patterns. CWD plays an important role as a habitat both for roots and ECM fungi. We suggest sampling larger soil cores and selecting random root tips in future studies. Sequencing is a powerful tool in ECM community studies.
Wanted: pathogenesis‐related marker molecules for Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Recorbet Ghislaine , Steinberg Christian , Olivain Chantal , Edel Véronique , Trouvelot Sophie , Dumas‐Gaudot Eliane , Gianinazzi Silvio , Alabouvette Claude
Published: June 2003

Although Fusarium oxysporum pathogens cause severe wilts in about 80 botanical species, the mechanisms of pathogenicity and symptom induction are poorly understood. Knowledge about the genetic and biochemical pathways involved in the pathogenesis of F. oxysporum would be invaluable in getting targets for both fungicide development and search for biocontrol agents. In this respect, we described the main approaches that have been developed to identify some mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of F. oxysporum. During the last decades, the potential functions triggering of F. oysporum pathogenicity have mainly been investigated by comparing soilborne pathogenic strains with nonpathogenic ones with regards to the analysis of the pre‐ and infection stages and of the resulting plant–fungus interactions. The relatively recent progress in the molecular biology of this fungus has allowed complementary approaches to be developed in order to identify key factors involved in F. oxysporum pathogenicity. Screening mutants of F. oxysporum for loss of virulence led to the successful identification of some pathogenesis‐related factors, such as hydrophobicity or attachment of germlings. Taken together, the strategies described above support the idea that changes in fungal metabolism is also of importance in triggering of F. oxysporum pathogenesis.
Intraspecific comparative genomics to identify avirulence genes from Phytophthora
Authors: Bos Jorunn I. B. , Armstrong Miles , Whisson Stephen C. , Torto Trudy A. , Ochwo Mildred , Birch Paul R. J. , Kamoun Sophien
Published: June 2003

Members of the oomycete genus Phytophthora cause some of the most devastating plant diseases in the world and are arguably the most destructive pathogens of dicot plants. Phytophthora research has entered the genomics era. Current genomic resources include expressed sequence tags from a variety of developmental and infection stages, as well as sequences of selected regions of Phytophthora genomes. Genomics promise to impact upon our understanding of the molecular basis of infection by Phytophthora, for example, by facilitating the isolation of genes encoding effector molecules with a role in virulence and avirulence. Based on prevalent models of plant–pathogen coevolution, some of these effectors, notably those with avirulence functions, are predicted to exhibit significant sequence variation within populations of the pathogen. This and other features were used to identify candidate avirulence genes from sequence databases. Here, we describe a strategy that combines data mining with intraspecific comparative genomics and functional analyses for the identification of novel avirulence genes from Phytophthora. This approach provides a rapid and efficient alternative to classical positional cloning strategies for identifying avirulence genes that match known resistance genes. In addition, this approach has the potential to uncover ‘orphan’ avirulence genes for which corresponding resistance genes have not previously been characterized.
Models of shoot apical meristem function
Authors: Tooke Fiona , Battey Nick
Published: June 2003

In this review we describe how concepts of shoot apical meristem function have developed over time. The role of the scientist is emphasized, as proposer, receiver and evaluator of ideas about the shoot apical meristem. Models have become increasingly popular over the last 250 years, and we consider their role. They provide valuable grounding for the development of hypotheses, but in addition they have a strong human element and their uptake relies on various degrees of persuasion. The most influential models are probably those that most data support, consolidating them as an insight into reality; but they also work by altering how we see meristems, re‐directing us to influence the data we collect and the questions we consider meaningful.

Contents

Summary
37

I.
Introduction
37

II.
How things began
38

III.
Cytology
39

IV.
Morphology
41

V.
Developmental genetics
44

VI.
Conclusions
49

Acknowledgements
50

References
50
Prostaglandin Analog Mechanisms Are Not Effective in Refractory Chronic Cluster Headache
Authors: Evers Stefan , Masur Harald , Sörös Peter , Brilla Roland , Husstedt Ingo‐W.
Published: June 2003

Prostaglandin E analogs have been shown to be effective in the treatment of refractory trigeminal neuralgia in patients with multiple sclerosis. Prostaglandin E inhibits the functions of T lymphocytes which are involved in the pathophysiology of cluster headache. Therefore, a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover study on the efficacy of misoprostol in chronic refractory cluster headache was performed. Eight patients were treated with 600 μg misoprostol and with placebo for a 2‐week period. No differences in attack frequency, intensity, global impression, and side effects could be detected, suggesting that prostaglandin E analogs are not effective in the treatment of chronic cluster headache.
β‐Thromboglobulin and 11‐Dehydrothromboxane B2 in Tension‐Type Headache
Authors: Oishi Minoru , Mochizuki Yoko
Published: June 2003

Platelet factor 4, β‐thromboglobulin, thromboxane B2, and 11‐dehydrothromboxane B2 were investigated in tension‐type headache. Ten cases of episodic tension‐type headache (mean age 42.5 years), 10 cases of chronic tension‐type headache (mean age 45.3 years), and 10 age‐matched healthy controls were studied. The platelet factor 4, β‐thromboglobulin, thromboxane B2 and 11‐dehydrothromboxane B2 concentrations in the plasma were significantly higher in the episodic tension‐type headache group than in the chronic tension‐type headache and healthy control groups. Platelets may be involved in episodic tension‐type headache.
Transcranial Doppler Ultrasonographic Features During Drug Withdrawal From Drug‐Induced Headache. A Transcranial Doppler Follow‐up Study
Authors: Haase Claus G. , Diener Hans‐Christoph
Published: June 2003

Background.—A vascular component in ergotamine‐induced headache has been proposed. No study has been carried out to evaluate cerebral hemodynamic changes by means of transcranial Doppler during withdrawal from migraine medication; in particular, ergotamine‐containing drugs.

Method.—We examined 21 patients suffering from drug‐induced headache during their in‐hospital withdrawal from ergotamine (n=8) and compared them with patients during withdrawal from analgesics (n=13) and with healthy controls (n=14). Cerebral blood flow velocities were measured with transcranial Doppler, and pulsatility indices were calculated. Blood pressure, heart rate, and end‐tidal carbon dioxide were documented. A subjective analog headache rating scaling was used for day‐to‐day evaluation of headache severity.

Results.—Mean cerebral blood flow velocities dropped significantly after discontinuation of ergotamine‐containing drugs but not after stopping common analgesics. Pulsatility indices remained unchanged. Cerebral blood flow velocities were higher in drug‐ingesting patients compared to the control group and showed significant changes in patients with headache using ergotamine and in those using analgesics. Carbon dioxide, heart rate, and blood pressure remained unchanged. The headache rating scale did not show a constant trend.

Comments.—Our results indicate that ergotamine and, to a lesser extent, common analgesics including caffeine might influence cerebral blood flow velocities and pulsatility indices causing transient and reversible disturbance of cerebral autoregulation.
Blink Reflex in Migraine and Tension‐Type Headache
Authors: Avramidis Theodoros G. , Podikoglou Danis G. , Anastasopoulos Ioannis E. , Koutroumanidis Michael A. , Papadimitriou Alexandros L.
Published: June 2003

The blink reflex was studied in 19 patients with migraine, 10 patients with tension‐type headache, and 30 healthy controls. Significantly lower values of R2 and R2′ amplitude and size were found in the migraine group, compared with the healthy control group. The differences were independent of the stimulation side (headache or nonheadache) and highly significant (P<0.001). The abnormalities of R2 and R2′ amplitude and size were found only during the headache phase of migraine, being normal between migraine attacks. R1 latency and amplitude were normal in all patients. The blink reflex was normal in all the patients with tension‐type headache. Subcutaneous injection of sumatriptan in 10 of the 19 migraineurs, during the headache phase, restored R2 and R2′ amplitude and size values to normal. Our findings indicate that the brain stem interneuron part of the blink reflex arc may be diffusely suppressed in migraine, only during the headache phase. Furthermore, blink reflex may be an objective laboratory method to monitor the effectiveness of specific drugs proposed for the treatment of migraine.
The Epidemiology of Migraine: A Retrospective Study in Italian Emergency Departments
Authors: De Carli G.F. , Fabbri L. , Cavazzuti L. , Roncolato M. , Agnello V. , Recchia G.
Published: June 2003

This study was conducted to measure the frequency of contact with emergency departments in Italy because of migraine, and to compare the initial diagnosi s of headache with the diagnosis after application of the International Headache Society (IHS) criteria.

A retrospective observational method was used, consisting of an analysis of the records of patients admitted to nine Italian emergency departments during different 4‐month periods in 1994. Comparison of the initial diagnosis with the diagnosis after application of the IHS diagnostic criteria was performed.

More than 31 million emergency department contacts were reported in Italy during 1994. In the same year, 543 630 patients visited the nine emergency departments enrolled in the study, with 169 569 of these contacts occurring in the 4‐month period analyzed in the study. We excluded from the analysis all cases of secondary headache fully recognized at the emergency department admission (ie, traumas, intracranial pathology, systemic diseases). The total number of patients included in our analysis was 1043 (0.6%). The 934 patients who could be fully evaluated were initially classified as having migraine; cluster headache; headache not otherwise specified; or diagnosed in the emergency department as suffering from headache, but reclassified by other departments as suffering from a different disease. After retrospective application of the IHS classification, the diagnostic distribution was modified, revealing that 18% of patients with migraine and 5% with cluster headaches had previously been classified as having headache not otherwise specified; a further 6% of cases with migraine and 0.4% of patients with cluster headache had previously been classified as having secondary headaches. The diagnosis of headache not otherwise specified was made with notable frequency, indicating the limits of emergency department logs and the difficulty in carrying out a retrospective analysis and reassessment of diagnosis.

The majority (88%) of patients assessed had not taken drugs for headache in the 48 hours before the emergency department contact, suggesting that in Italy emergency departments are used instead of a visit to the general practitioner. Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs were the most frequently prescribed drugs in the emergency departments for this group of diagnoses.

The research revealed, on the one hand, that headache is a numerically significant phenomenon in the emergency department setting and, on the other, the need to apply prospective designs to this kind of survey.
Cluster Headache Management With Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
Authors: Mellick Gary A. , Mellick Larry B.
Published: June 2003

The authors report rapid cluster headache relief in a 43‐year‐old man with a 5‐year history of refractory cluster headache. The patient described complete headache relief within 10 minutes of taking 10 mg of methylphenidate (Ritalin) when used to abort the onset of his headaches. Subsequently, a scheduled Ritalin dose taken each morning was sufficient to prevent his nightly headaches. In addition, 1 week of prophylactic methylphenidate therapy halted the series of cluster headaches. This is the first reported case of relief of cluster headaches with methylphenidate.
The Association between Antiepileptic Drugs and Bone Disease
Authors: Pack Alison M.
Published: June 2003

A growing body of literature indicates an association between antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and bone disease, including histologic, radiographic, and biochemical evidence. The AEDs most commonly reported to cause decreased bone mineral density and disorders of bone metabolism are inducers of the cytochrome P450 enzyme system (phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine, primidone). More recent studies also suggest that valproate, an enzyme inhibitor, causes abnormalities in bone health. Multiple mechanisms have been postulated to support the association; however, no single mechanism explains all the findings. Identifying bone disease in persons with epilepsy receiving AEDs is important, as multiple treatment options are available.
Cytogenetic comparison between clear cell sarcoma and a case of acral clear cell melanoma
Authors: Zelger Bettina G. , Debiec‐Rychter Maria , Sciot Raf , Zelger Bernhard
Published: June 2003

Background: Clear cell melanoma is a recently described variant of melanoma characterized by prominent clear cell features similar to clear cell sarcoma.

Patients and methods: The present report describes a deeply invasive case of clear cell melanoma clinically, histologically, immunohistochemically, ultrastructurally and with the FISH technique and compares these findings with those in clear cell sarcoma.

Results: A 68‐year‐old male presented with an ulcerated, deeply invasive melanoma on the heel, corresponding to Clark level V, with a maximum tumour thickness of more than 14 mm; follow‐up revealed inguinal lymph‐node and lung metastases. Apart from characteristic histological features of melanoma with intraepidermal involvement, the lesion was immunohistochemically positive for S100 protein, with HMB45 and A103 (anti‐human Melan‐A/MART‐1), and ultrastructurally showed melanosomes. In deeply invasive parts, the lesion was indistinguishable from clear cell sarcoma, exhibiting nests, fascicles and sheets of pale‐staining epithelioid to spindle‐shaped cells (‘clear cells’) with scattered Touton‐like multinucleated giant cells. Cytogenetic analysis using the FISH technique revealed a 12q13 chromosomal break in the vicinity of the ATF1 gene but without ATF1 disruption.

Conclusion: These findings may indicate the possible involvement of the ATF1 gene in clear cell melanoma tumorigenesis, similar to clear cell sarcoma with classical t(12;22) translocation.
Na+/H+ Exchange Activity in the Plasma Membrane of Arabidopsis
Authors: Qiu Quan-Sheng , Barkla Bronwyn J. , Vera-Estrella Rosario , Zhu Jian-Kang , Schumaker Karen S.
Published: June 2003

In plants, Na+/H+ exchangers in the plasma membrane are critical for growth in high levels of salt, removing toxic Na+ from the cytoplasm by transport out of the cell. The molecular identity of a plasma membrane Na+/H+ exchanger in Arabidopsis (SOS1) has recently been determined. In this study, immunological analysis provided evidence that SOS1 localizes to the plasma membrane of leaves and roots. To characterize the transport activity of this protein, purified plasma membrane vesicles were isolated from leaves of Arabidopsis. Na+/H+ exchange activity, monitored as the ability of Na to dissipate an established pH gradient, was absent in plants grown without salt. However, exchange activity was induced when plants were grown in 250 mm NaCl and increased with prolonged salt exposure up to 8 d. H+-coupled exchange was specific for Na, because chloride salts of other monovalent cations did not dissipate the pH gradient. Na+/H+ exchange activity was dependent on Na (substrate) concentration, and kinetic analysis indicated that the affinity (apparent K  m) of the transporter for Na+ is 22.8 mm. Data from two experimental approaches supports electroneutral exchange (one Na+ exchanged for one proton): (a) no change in membrane potential was measured during the exchange reaction, and (b) Na+/H+ exchange was unaffected by the presence or absence of a membrane potential. Results from this research provide a framework for future studies into the regulation of the plant plasma membrane Na+/H+ exchanger and its relative contribution to the maintenance of cellular Na+ homeostasis during plant growth in salt.