bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal sequence of abnormal Doppler changes in the peripheral and central circulatory systems of the severely growth‐restricted fetus
Authors: Ferrazzi E. , Bozzo M. , Rigano S. , Bellotti M. , Morabito A. , Pardi G. , Battaglia F. C. , Galan H. L.
Published: March 2003

Objective

To identify the temporal sequence of abnormal Doppler changes in the fetal circulation in a subset of early and severely growth‐restricted fetuses.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study in a tertiary care/teaching hospital. Twenty‐six women who were diagnosed with growth‐restricted fetuses by local standards before 32 weeks' gestation and who had abnormal uterine and umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry were enrolled onto the study. To compare Doppler changes as a function of time, pulsed‐wave Doppler ultrasound was performed on five vessels in the fetal peripheral and central circulations. Doppler examinations were performed twice‐weekly and on the day of delivery if the fetal heart rate tracing became abnormal. Doppler indices were scored as abnormal when their values were outside the local reference limits on two or more consecutive measurements. Biometry for assessment of fetal growth was performed every 2 weeks. Computerized fetal heart rates were obtained daily. Delivery was based on a non‐reactive fetal heart rate tracing and not on Doppler information. Patients with a severely growth‐restricted fetus who were delivered for maternal indications such as pre‐eclampsia were excluded. Perinatal outcome endpoints included: intrauterine death, gestational age at delivery, newborn weight, central nervous system damage of grade 2 or greater, intraventricular hemorrhage and neonatal mortality.

Results

Mean gestational age and newborn weight at delivery were 29 (standard deviation (SD), 2) weeks and 818 (SD, 150) g, respectively. The sequence of Doppler velocimetric changes was described by onset time cumulative curves that showed two time‐related events. First, for each vessel there was a progressive increase in the percent of fetuses developing a Doppler abnormality. Second, severely growth‐restricted fetuses followed a progressive sequence of acquiring Doppler abnormalities which were categorized into ‘early’ and ‘late’ Doppler changes. Early changes occurred in peripheral vessels (umbilical and middle cerebral arteries; 50% of patients affected 15–16 days prior to delivery). Late changes included umbilical artery reverse flow, and abnormal changes in the ductus venosus, aortic and pulmonary outflow tracts (50% of patients affected 4–5 days prior to delivery). The time interval between the occurrence of early and late changes was significantly different (P < 0.0001) and late changes were significantly associated with perinatal death (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Doppler velocimetry abnormalities develop in different vessels of the severely growth‐restricted fetus in a sequential fashion. Late changes in vascular adaptation by the severely growth‐restricted fetus are the best predictor of perinatal death. Copyright © 2002 ISUOG
Characterization of muscle actin genes in Drosophila virilis reveals significant molecular complexity in skeletal muscle types
Authors: Lovato T. L. , Meadows S. M. , Baker P. W. , Sparrow J. C. , Cripps R. M.
Published: March 2003

Actin is a ubiquitous and highly conserved eukaryotic protein required for cell motility and locomotion. In this manuscript, we characterize the four muscle actin genes of the insect Drosophila virilis and demonstrate strong similarities between the D. virilis genes and their homologues in Drosophila melanogaster; intron locations are conserved, and there are few amino acid differences between homologues. We also found strong conservation in temporal expression patterns of the muscle actin genes – the homologues of the D. melanogaster genes Act57B and Act87E are expressed throughout the life cycle, whereas the other two D. virilis genes, homologous to Act79B and Act88F are specific to pupal and adult stages. In situ hybridization revealed that each D. virilis gene is expressed in a unique pattern in the muscles of the thorax and abdomen. These muscle‐specific patterns of actin isoforms suggest a greater physiological diversity for the adult muscles of insects than has been appreciated to date from their categorization into fibrillar, tubular (non‐fibrillar) and supercontractile muscle types.
Cloning and expression analysis of a 5HT7‐like serotonin receptor cDNA from mosquito Aedes aegypti female excretory and respiratory systems
Authors: Pietrantonio P. V. , Jagge C. , McDowell C.
Published: March 2003

In the mosquito Aedes aegypti, 5‐HT changes the endogenous rhythm of contractions in the female hindgut and increases fluid secretion in the larval Malpighian tubule. The role of 5‐HT as a diuretic hormone in adults has been questioned. We cloned a cDNA encoding a serotonin receptor from a female A. aegypti Malpighian tubule library that is similar to the 5‐HT7 receptor from Drosophila melanogaster. The transcript was localized in the tracheolar cells associated with the female Malpighian tubules but no signal was detectable in the tubule epithelium. Immunohistochemistry with specific antibodies confirmed the receptor expression in tracheolar cells and hindgut, and western blots of these tissues showed the expected 50 kDa band. The results suggest a role for serotonin in respiration and that this receptor may coordinate the tubule‐hindgut response to serotonin during diuresis.
Fine scale mapping in the sex locus region of the honey bee (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Hasselmann M. , Fondrk M. K. , Page R. E. , Beye M.
Published: March 2003

Isolating an unknown gene with fine‐scale mapping is possible in a ‘non‐model’ organism. Sex determination in honey bees consists of a single locus (sex locus) with several complementary alleles. Diploid females are heterozygous at the sex locus, whereas haploid males arise from unfertilized eggs and are hemizygous. The construction of specific inbred crosses facilitates fine scale mapping in the sex locus region of the honey bee. The high recombination rate in the honey bee reduces the physical distance between markers compared with model organisms and facilitates a novel gene isolation strategy based on step‐wise creation of new markers within small physical distances. We show that distances less than 25 kb can be efficiently mapped with a mapping population of only 1000 individuals. The procedure described here will accelerate the mapping, analysis and isolation of honey bee genes.
Genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships of the troglodytic ‘living fossil’Congeria kusceri (Bivalvia: Dreissenidae)
Authors: Stepien C. A. , Morton B. , Dabrowska K. A. , Guarnera R. A. , Radja T. , Radja B.
Published: March 2003

Population genetic theory predicts that long‐term isolation of ‘living fossils’ in relic habitats might reduce genetic variability due to small population sizes and inbreeding. The recent description of a troglodytic ‘living fossil’Congeria kusceri — the only known subterranean bivalve mollusc — from a genus thought to be extinct since the Miocene, offers a unique opportunity to examine this hypothesis. Here, we use DNA sequences from two mitochondrial genes to compare levels of genetic variability and to test phylogenetic relationships of C. kusceri with surface‐dwelling dreissenid relatives. Phylogenetic analyses of sequences from the cytochrome oxidase 1 (COI) and 16S rDNA genes reveal that Mytilopsis is the sister genus to Congeria and this clade forms the sister taxon to Dreissena. Relatively high levels of DNA diversity characterized the population of C. kusceri (haplotypic diversity = 0.50 for 16S rDNA and 0.66 in the COI gene), in contrast to no intraspecific variability in populations of Dreissenapolymorpha, D. bugensis, Mytilopsisleucophaeta, and Corbiculafluminea. Maintenance of genetic variability in C. kusceri may result from long‐term population size stability, which merits further investigation. This underground species apparently was buffered from the climatic changes and resultant population bottlenecks that affected its surface‐dwelling relatives during the Pliocene and Pleistocene Ice Ages.
Molecular studies on the colonization of the Madeiran archipelago by house mice
Authors: GÜndüz İ. , Auffray J.‐C. , Britton‐Davidian J. , Catalan J. , Ganem G. , Ramalhinho M. G. , Mathias M. L. , Searle J. B.
Published: March 2003

To study the colonization history of the house mouse (Mus musculus domesticus) on the Madeiran archipelago, complete mitochondrial D‐loop sequences were obtained for 44 individuals from Madeira, Porto Santo and Ilhas Desertas. Altogether, 19 D‐loop haplotypes were identified which formed part of a single clade in a phylogeny incorporating haplotypes from elsewhere in the range of M. m. domesticus, indicating that the Madeiras were colonized from a single source. Similarities between the sequences found in the Madeiras and those in Scandinavia and northern Germany suggest that northern Europe was the source area, and there is the intriguing possibility that the Vikings may have accidentally brought house mice to the archipelago. However, there is no record of Vikings visiting the Madeiras; on historical grounds, Portugal is the most likely source area for Madeiran mice and further molecular data from Portugal are needed to rule out that possibility.
Phylogenetics, genome diversity and origin of modern leopard,Panthera pardus
Authors: Uphyrkina Olga , Johnson Warren E. , Quigley Howard , Miquelle Dale , Marker Laurie , Bush Mitchel , O'Brien Stephen J.
Published: March 2003

Leopards,Panthera pardus, are widely distributed across southern Asia and sub‐Saharan Africa. The extent and phylogeographic patterns of molecular genetic diversity were addressed in a survey of 77 leopards from known geographical locales representing 13 of the 27 classical trinomial subspecies. Phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences (727 bp ofNADH5and control region) and 25 polymorphic microsatellite loci revealed abundant diversity that could be partitioned into a minimum of nine discrete populations, tentatively named here as revised subspecies:P. parduspardus,P. p. nimr,P. p. saxicolor,P. p. fusca,P. p. kotiya,P. p. delacouri,P. p. japonensis,P. p. orientalisandP. p. melas. However, because of limited sampling of African populations, this may be an underestimate of modern phylogeographic population structure. Combined phylogeographic and population diversity estimates support an origin for modern leopard lineages 470 000–825 000 years ago in Africa followed by their migration into and across Asia more recently (170 000–300 000 years ago). Recent demographic reductions likely have led to genetic impoverishment inP. p. orientalisand in the island subspeciesP. p. kotiya.
Genetic diversity and population history of two related seabird species based on mitochondrial DNA control region sequences
Authors: Moum T. , Árnason E.
Published: March 2003

Geographical variation in two related seabird species, the razorbill (Alca torda) and common guillemot (Uria aalge), was investigated using sequence analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control regions. We determined the nucleotide sequence of the variable 5′ segment of the control region in razorbills and common guillemots from breeding colonies across the Atlantic Ocean. The ecology and life history characteristics of razorbill and common guillemot are in many respects similar. They are both considered highly philopatric and have largely overlapping distributions in temperate and subarctic regions of the North Atlantic, yet the species were found to differ widely in the extent and spatial distribution of mtDNA variation. Moreover, the differences in genetic differentiation and diversity were in the opposite direction to that expected from a consideration of traditional classifications and current population sizes. Indices of genetic diversity were highest in razorbill and varied among colonies, as did genotype frequencies, suggestive of restrictions to gene flow. The distribution of genetic variation suggests that razorbills originated from a refugial population in the south‐western Atlantic Ocean through sequential founder events and subsequent expansion in the east and north. In common guillemots, genetic diversity was low and there was a lack of geographical structure, consistent with a recent population bottleneck, expansion and gene flow. We suggest that the reduced level of genetic diversity and differentiation in the common guillemot is caused by an inherent propensity for repeated population bottlenecks and concomitantly unstable population structure related to their specialized feeding ecology.
Data from amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers show indication of size homoplasy and of a relationship between degree of homoplasy and fragment size
Authors: Vekemans X. , Beauwens T. , Lemaire M. , Roldán‐Ruiz I.
Published: March 2003

We investigate the distribution of sizes of fragments obtained from the amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) marker technique. We find that empirical distributions obtained in two plant species, Phaseolus lunatus and Lolium perenne, are consistent with the expected distributions obtained from analytical theory and from numerical simulations. Our results indicate that the size distribution is strongly asymmetrical, with a much higher proportion of small than large fragments, that it is not influenced by the number of selective nucleotides nor by genome size but that it may vary with genome‐wide GC‐content, with a higher proportion of small fragments in cases of lower GC‐content when considering the standard AFLP protocol with the enzyme MseI. Results from population samples of the two plant species show that there is a negative relationship between AFLP fragment size and fragment population frequency. Monte Carlo simulations reveal that size homoplasy, arising from pulling together nonhomologous fragments of the same size, generates patterns similar to those observed in P. lunatus and L. perenne because of the asymmetry of the size distribution. We discuss the implications of these results in the context of estimating genetic diversity with AFLP markers.
Development of the lateral line system in the sea bass
Authors: Diaz J. P. , Prié‐Granié M. , Kentouri M. , Varsamos S. , Connes R.
Published: March 2003

Using light and electron microscopy, a study of the development of the lateral line system of the sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax, from embryo to adult, revealed that the first free neuromasts appeared on the head shortly before hatching and multiplied during the larval stage. They were aligned on the head and trunk in a pattern which corresponded to the location of future canals. The transition to the juvenile stage marked the start of important anatomical changes during which head and trunk canals were formed successively. Neuromasts, with a cupula and consisting of standard sensory cells and supporting cells, were characterized by bidirectional polarity. The exact location of the first neuromast formed in the embryo was identified and its differentiation monitored from primordium to eruption. This neuromast was distinguishable from the others by its radial polarity. Correlations were made between the development of the lateral line system and the behaviour of the sea bass.
Reproductive cycles and spawning periods of two Lessepsian siganid fishes on the Lebanese coast
Authors: Bariche M. , Harmelin‐Vivien M. , Quignard J.‐P.
Published: March 2003

A total of 1048 specimens of Siganus rivulatus and Siganus luridus were collected from the Batrun area of the Mediterranean Sea from January 1999 to August 2000. The sex‐ratio in both species did not differ significantly from 1 : 1 between size classes or months. For S. rivulatus, the estimated mean length at first maturity (LT50) was 132·5 mm for males and 136·5 mm for females, and 139·0 and 142·0 mm, respectively, for male and female S. luridus. Spawning occurred in June in S. rivulatus and from May to July in S. luridus. High temperature in summer appeared to be a limiting factor in the gonadal development of both siganid species, which have reduced their breeding seasons on the Lebanese coast compared to their native Red Sea.
Mizoribine treatment for childhood IgA nephropathy
Authors: Nagaoka Rieko , Kaneko Kazunari ,   YOSHIYUKI OHTOMO, Yamashiro Yuichiro
Published: March 2003

Background
: There is currently no established therapy for childhood IgA nephropathy (IgAN). Mizoribine, a newly developed immunosuppressive agent characterized as a safe and well‐tolerated drug, has been widely used in diverse conditions. Our preliminary study demonstrated that mizoribine could reduce the amount of proteinuria in children with IgAN. The present study was conducted to confirm this finding.

Methods
: Ten children with IgAN (median age 13.5 years) of moderate histological severity were enrolled. None of them had been previously treated by immunosuppressants. Mizoribine was administered orally for a median period of 20.5 months. We compared the urinary protein excretion expressed as the ratio of urinary protein to urinary creatinine (UP/UC) and the hematuria evaluated as the level of occult blood by dip‐stick (OB score). Renal histology was also examined in three patients using paired biopsy specimens obtained both before and after treatment. We performed blood examinations regularly to monitor the toxicity and plasma concentration of mizoribine.

Results
: The median observation period was 44.5 months,
consisting of a median 13.0 months before therapy, 20.5 months
during therapy and 12.0 months after therapy. Significant
reductions in both UP/UC and OB score were induced by mizoribine
(P < 0.05). Renal mesangial proliferation was also improved. Plasma peak levels of mizoribine varied from 0.30 µg/mL to 1.23 µg/mL and were not associated with its effectiveness. No adverse effects were observed during the therapy, although a slight decrease in leukocyte count was noted.

Conclusion
: Mizoribine can be an alternative drug for childhood IgAN with moderate severity because it results in a significant reduction of proteinuria and hematuria with histological improvement and causes far fewer complications compared to the conventional immunosuppressants.
Mizoribine as an effective combined maintenance therapy with prednisolone in child‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Aihara Yukoh , Miyamae Takako , Ito Shu‐Ichi , Kobayashi Shigenori , Imagawa Tomoyuki , Mori Masaaki , Ibe Masaaki , Mitsuda Toshihiro , Yokota Shumpei
Published: March 2003

Background
: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is one of the major collagen diseases in childhood. However, the pathogenesis of this disease still remains unknown. The disease is known as a chronic inflammatory disease. Since oral and intravenous corticosteroid therapy has been introduced into the treatment of SLE, the prognosis of patients has improved significantly. However, it has now become clear that there are limitations in the effectiveness, as well as adverse reactions when corticosteroids therapy is administered for a long‐term period. Therefore, we have been attempting to improve the maintenance therapy of child‐onset SLE.

Methods
: We have proposed and tested a new type of combination therapy using prednisolone (PSL) and mizoribine (MZR) in pediatric patients with SLE for maintenance therapy after the induction of remission.

Results
: Our results showed that this combination therapy is more effective than the previous regimen. In addition, no significant side‐effects were observed in our study.

Conclusion
: This combination therapy is still not perfect. Efforts should be continued to establish an optimal therapy regimen for child‐onset SLE.
Posterior leukoencephalopathy following cisplatin, bleomycin and vinblastine therapy for germ cell tumor of the ovary
Authors: Sueblinvong Thanasak , Noophun Phadet , Pataradool Kamol , Suwanwela Nitaya , Phanthumchinda Kammant , Tresukosol Damrong
Published: March 2003

A 31‐year‐old female developed multiple episodes of grand mal seizures after combination chemotherapy with cisplatin, vinblastine and bleomycin for germ cell ovarian cancer stage Ic. The clinicoradiologic fea‐tures in this patient were consistent with posterior leukoencephalopathy, which is a rare complication of chemotherapy. Seizures were controlled by the anticonvulsive agent Dilantin (Pfizer, Khet Klongtoey, Bangkok) and she returned home without any permanent neurologic deficits. Follow‐up magnetic resonance imaging 2 weeks later showed complete resolution of the abnormalities. This syndrome has been previously reported following cisplatin‐based chemotherapy. Physicians should remain alert to the potential hazards of chemotherapy to the central nervous system. Risks and benefits should be seriously considered before starting treatment.
Mucocolpos due to complete transverse septum in middle third of vagina in a 17‐year‐old girl
Authors: Rana Ashma , Manandhar Bekha , Amatya Archana , Baral Josie , Gurung Geeta , Giri Amrita , Giri Kanti
Published: March 2003

A 17‐year‐old girl had a large abdominopelvic mass (12 × 8 cm) extending from vagina, due to the presence of a complete transverse vaginal septum in its middle third which on resection facilitated the drainage and disappearance of the mass finally diagnosed as a case of mucocolpos.
Modulation of multidrug resistance in human ovarian cancer cell lines by inhibition of P‐glycoprotein 170 and PKC isoenzymes with antisense oligonucleotides
Authors: Masanek Ulrike , Stammler Gerd , Volm Manfred
Published: March 2003

Multidrug resistance in human ovarian carcinoma cell lines is caused by the expression of several related proteins, namely P‐glycoprotein 170 (Pgp‐170), glutathione S‐transferase‐π GST‐π), and thymidylate synthase (TS). These proteins seem to be regulated by a common mechanism in which the expression of protein kinase C (PKC) is involved. Additionally, the function of Pgp‐170 is dependent on PKC phosphorylation. However, in ovarian carcinoma cell lines the role of different PKC enzymes responsible for resistance is not quite clear. In the present study we circumvented resistance in taxol resistant human ovarian carcinoma cell lines with antisense oligonucleotides to PKCα and PKCβ mRNA and compared the effects with those obtained by Pgp‐170 antisense oligonucleotides. We found a significant inhibition of cell number after treatment with Pgp‐170 antisense oligonucleotides in combination with taxol. Additionally, resistance could be reversed by treatment with taxol and antisense oligomers to PKCα and PKCβ. This shows that regulatory correlations between these proteins exist and that inhibition of the mRNA of PKCα and PKCβ isoforms and Pgp‐170 can reverse multidrug resistance.
Hexadecylphosphocholine selectively upregulates expression of intracellular adhesion molecule‐1 and class I major histocompatibility complex antigen in human monocytes
Authors: Eue Ines
Published: March 2003

U 937 cells are widely used as a model system to study human monocytes, since they express typical human monocyte markers and properties. Hexadecylphosphocholine (HPC) is the main representative of a class of synthetic phospholipids, the alkylphosphocholines (APCs), and is able to form stable multilamellar vesicles (MLVs = liposomes) to deliver HPC to monocytes/macrophages. Here we report the ability of both micellar and liposomal HPC (L‐HPC) to interact with human monocytes and upregulate specific adhesion molecules. Whereas CD14 could neither be induced by HPC nor by L‐HPC on U 937 cells, intracellular adhesion molecule‐1 and class 1 major histocompatibility complex (MHC‐1) antigen were upregulated by both HPC and L‐HPC in a dose‐dependent manner. These data support and complete previous studies on HPC‐induced activation of U 937 cells and provide additional mechanistic information on the initial steps of HPC‐mediated recruitment of macrophages and their antitumor activity.
Expression analysis of genes induced in barley after chemical activation reveals distinct disease resistance pathways
Authors: Beßer Katrin , Jarosch Birgit , Langen Gregor , Kogel Karl‐Heinz
Published: March 2003

Salicylic acid (SA) and its synthetic mimics 2,6‐dichloroisonicotinic acid (DCINA) and benzo(1,2,3)thiadiazole‐7‐carbothioic acid S‐methyl ester (BTH), protect barley systemically against powdery mildew (Blumeria graminis f.sp. hordei, Bgh) infection by strengthening plant defence mechanisms that result in effective papillae and host cell death. Here, we describe the differential expression of a number of newly identified barley chemically induced (BCI) genes encoding a lipoxygenase (BCI‐1), a thionin (BCI‐2), an acid phosphatase (BCI‐3), a Ca2+‐binding EF‐hand protein (BCI‐4), a serine proteinase inhibitor (BCI‐7), a fatty acid desaturase (BCI‐8) and several further proteins with as yet unknown function. Compared with SA, the chemicals DCINA and BTH were more potent inducers of both gene expression and resistance. Homologues of four BCI genes were detected in wheat and were also differentially regulated upon chemical activation of disease resistance. Except for BCI‐4 and BCI‐5 (unknown function), the genes were also induced by exogenous application of jasmonates, whereas treatments that raise endogenous jasmonates as well as wounding were less effective. The fact that BCI genes were not expressed during incompatible barley–Bgh interactions governed by gene‐for‐gene relationships suggests the presence of separate pathways leading to powdery mildew resistance.
Transgenic citrus plants expressing the citrus tristeza virus p23 protein exhibit viral‐like symptoms
Authors: Ghorbel Riadh , LÓpez Carmelo , Fagoaga Carmen , Moreno Pedro , Navarro Luis , Flores Ricardo , Peña Leandro
Published: March 2003

The 23 kDa protein (p23) coded by the 3′‐terminal gene of Citrus tristeza virus (CTV), a member of the genus Closterovirus with the largest genome among plant RNA viruses, is an RNA‐binding protein that contains a motif rich in cysteine and histidine residues in the core of a putative zinc‐finger domain. On this basis, a regulatory role for CTV replication or gene expression has been suggested for p23. To explore whether over‐expression of this protein in transgenic plants could affect the normal CTV infection process, transgenic Mexican lime plants were generated carrying the p23 transgene, or a truncated version thereof, under the control of the cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) 35S promoter. Constitutive expression of p23 induced phenotypic aberrations that resembled symptoms incited by CTV in non‐transgenic lime plants, whereas transgenic plants expressing the p23 truncated version were normal. The onset of CTV‐like symptoms in p23‐transgenic plants was associated with the expression of p23, and its accumulation level paralleled the intensity of the symptoms. This demonstrates that p23 is involved in symptom development and that it most likely plays a key role in CTV pathogenesis. This is the first case in which a protein encoded by a woody plant‐infecting RNA virus has been identified as being directly involved in pathogenesis in its natural host. This finding also delimits a small region of the large CTV genome for the future mapping of specific pathogenic determinants.
Agrobacterium‐mediated T‐DNA transfer and integration into the chromosome of Streptomyces lividans
Authors: Kelly Brian A. , Kado Clarence I.
Published: March 2003

Agrobacterium tumefaciens is the prototype of a prokaryotic organism transmitting DNA across natural kingdom barriers into higher cells. In nature, a specific segment (T‐DNA) of the resident Ti plasmid is transferred from this bacterium into plant cells and integrated into the plant cell genome. Expression of the integrated oncogenes contained in the T‐DNA results in the tumour disease known as crown gall. Besides plants, the range of transformable recipients is broad and includes fungi and mammalian cells. We now show further extension of this host range, whereby the actinomycete Streptomyces lividans is also a recipient of the T‐DNA. A. tumefaciens cells containing a binary vector system with a vir helper plasmid, pUCD2614, and a T‐DNA donor plasmid, pUCD5801, were co‐cultured with S. lividans hyphae. A. tumefaciens–S. lividans aggregate when the vir genes are induced with acetosyringone, resulting in the transfer of the T‐DNA, as evidenced by the formation of transconjugants containing T‐DNA genetic markers and the appearance of the T‐DNA in these transconjugants. Close examination of the interacted cells revealed a presumably coiled thread‐like interconnection with an average width of approximately 30 nm between A. tumefaciens and S. lividans. This interconnecting structure is dependent on virB genes and appears only under the same conditions as that required for T‐pilus formation. Insertion of the T‐DNA via A. tumefaciens into the S. lividans genome provides a useful genetic tool for generating novel mutants.
The molecular characterization of two barley proteins establishes the novel PR‐17 family of pathogenesis‐related proteins
Authors: Christensen Anders B. , Cho Baik HO , Næsby Michael , Gregersen Per L. , Brandt Jakob , Madriz‐Ordeñana Kenneth , Collinge David B. , Thordal‐Christensen Hans
Published: March 2003

Two barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cDNA clones (pBH6‐12 and pBH6‐17) were isolated from a cDNA library prepared from leaves 6 h after inoculation with Blumeria graminis f.sp. hordei (Bgh). The two transcripts accumulate strongly in response to Bgh, peaking around 6, 15–24 and 48–96 h after inoculation, concomitant with fungal penetration attempts, hypersensitive response and fungal growth. The encoded proteins, HvPR‐17a and HvPR‐17b, belong to a new family of plant pathogenesis‐related proteins, designated ‘PR‐17’. The family also include NtPRp27 from tobacco (Okushima et al., 2000, Plant Mol. Biol.42, 479–488) and WCI‐5 from wheat (Görlach et al., 1996, Plant Cell8, 629–643), responsive to viral and fungal infection, respectively. Antisera were raised to HvPR‐17a and HvPR‐17b, and the proteins exhibit apparent molecular weights of 26 and 24 kDa, respectively. They accumulate in the mesophyll apoplast following Bgh‐inoculation, as well as in the leaf epidermis, the only tissue to be invaded by the fungus. Several homologous plant proteins exist, and a highly conserved part of the members of this new protein family show similarity to the active site and to the peptide‐binding groove of the exopeptidase ‘aminopeptidase N’ from eukaryotes and the endopeptidase ‘thermolysin’ from bacteria.
Microarray analysis of chitin elicitation in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Ramonell Katrina M. , Zhang Bing , Ewing Rob M. , Chen Yu , Xu Dong , Stacey Gary , Somerville Shauna
Published: March 2003

Chitin oligomers, released from fungal cell walls by endochitinase, induce defence and related cellular responses in many plants. However, little is known about chitin responses in the model plant Arabidopsis. We describe here a large‐scale characterization of gene expression patterns in Arabidopsis in response to chitin treatment using an Arabidopsis microarray consisting of 2375 EST clones representing putative defence‐related and regulatory genes. Transcript levels for 71 ESTs, representing 61 genes, were altered three‐fold or more in chitin‐treated seedlings relative to control seedlings. A number of transcripts exhibited altered accumulation as early as 10 min after exposure to chitin, representing some of the earliest changes in gene expression observed in chitin‐treated plants. Included among the 61 genes were those that have been reported to be elicited by various pathogen‐related stimuli in other plants. Additional genes, including genes of unknown function, were also identified, broadening our understanding of chitin‐elicited responses. Among transcripts with enhanced accumulation, one cluster was enriched in genes with both the W‐box promoter element and a novel regulatory element. In addition, a number of transcripts had decreased abundance, encoding several proteins involved in cell wall strengthening and wall deposition. The chalcone synthase promoter element was identified in the upstream regions of these genes, suggesting that pathogen signals may suppress the expression of some genes. These data indicate that Arabidopsis should be an excellent model to elucidate the mechanisms of chitin elicitation in plant defence.
Cauliflower mosaic virus: still in the news
Authors: Haas Muriel , Bureau Marina , Geldreich Angèle , Yot Pierre , Keller Mario
Published: March 2003

Taxonomic relationship: Cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) is the type member of the Caulimovirus genus in the Caulimoviridae family, which comprises five other genera. CaMV replicates its DNA genome by reverse transcription of a pregenomic RNA and thus belongs to the pararetrovirus supergroup, which includes the Hepadnaviridae family infecting vertebrates.

Physical properties:  Virions are non‐enveloped isometric particles, 53 nm in diameter (Fig. 1). They are constituted by 420 capsid protein subunits organized following T= 7 icosahedral symmetry (Cheng, R.H., Olson, N.H. and Baker, T.S. (1992) Cauliflower mosaic virus: a 420 subunit (T= 7), multilayer structure. Virology, 16, 655–668). The genome consists of a double‐stranded circular DNA of approximately 8000 bp that is embedded in the inner surface of the capsid.

Electron micrograph of CaMV virions. Courtesy of J. Menissier de Murcia, Ecole Supérieure de Biotechnologie de Strasbourg.

image

Viral proteins: The CaMV genome encodes six proteins, a cell‐to‐cell movement protein (P1), two aphid transmission factors (P2 and P3), the precursor of the capsid proteins (P4), a polyprotein precursor of proteinase, reverse transcriptase and ribonuclease H (P5) and an inclusion body protein/translation transactivator (P6).

Hosts: The host range of CaMV is limited to plants of the Cruciferae family, i.e. Brassicae species and Arabidopsis thaliana, but some viral strains can also infect solanaceous plants. In nature, CaMV is transmitted by aphids in a non‐circulative manner.
Characterization of a chorismate mutase from the potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida
Authors: Jones John T. , Furlanetto Cleber , Bakker Erin , Banks Bryony , Blok Vivian , Chen Qing , Phillips Mark , Prior Alison
Published: March 2003

Some plant endoparasitic nematodes are biotrophic and induce remarkable changes in their hosts in order to ensure a continuous supply of food. Proteins secreted from oesophageal gland cells have been implicated in this pathogenic process. A potentially secreted chorismate mutase has been isolated from the potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida. The gene encoding this protein is expressed in the subventral oesophageal gland cells of the nematode, and the mRNA derived from this gene is only present in the early parasitic stages. Sequence analysis of this gene shows that, like other genes involved in the host–parasite interaction of plant parasitic nematodes, it is likely to have been acquired by horizontal gene transfer from bacteria. The presence of a signal peptide in the deduced amino acid sequence of the G. pallida chorismate mutase and its expression in the subventral oesophageal gland cells suggest that it is secreted from the nematode, pointing to a role for the protein in the host–parasite interaction. The shikimate pathway, of which chorismate mutase is normally a part, is not found in animals but is present in plants and bacteria. In plants it gives rise to a variety of compounds which are important in amino acid synthesis and defence signalling pathways, as well as auxins, which have been implicated in the early development of nematode feeding sites. The potential roles of a nematode chorismate mutase are discussed.
Food safety and assurance: the role of information technology
Authors: Deasy Donal J
Published: March 2003

The dairy industry is under pressure to improve product security, implement efficient risk management and rapid response capabilities, and manage quality ‘from trough to table’ to achieve full, verifiable traceability. In order to invest proactively in the future of the industry, individual processors must reassess their handling of quality and traceability data for strategic and competitive success, make appropriate physical configuration and operational adjustments, and deploy readily available technological tools to meet legislative and consumer demands, enhance product quality and increase operational efficiency and profits.
Observations on information management in the NHS*
Authors: VICKERS PETER
Published: March 2003

In 1982–83 ASLIB carried out a study of information flow in the NHS with a view to recommending a strategy for the introduction of information technology, especially within District Health Authorities. The study and its implications are described. A recent project undertaken on behalf of the King's Fund Centre Library is also outlined.
Costing medical libraries: the feasibility of functional cost analysis*
Authors: JONES LOUISE , NICHOLAS DAVE
Published: March 2003

As a result of organizational changes in the National Health Service (NHS) there is a need for a coherent costing model for NHS libraries, particularly for the smaller libraries based in postgraduate medical centres. One possible model is functional cost analysis, whereby all costs are assigned to library functions representing services to users, such as loans from stock, interlibrary loans, enquiry services, etc. Using data from a 1991 survey of postgraduate centre‐based libraries in the North West Thames (NWT) Region of the NHS , the feasibility and appropriateness off unctional cost analysis is examined.
A content analysis of the health information provided in women's weekly magazines
Authors: ELLIOTT B. JANE
Published: March 2003

Women's weekly magazines are read by approximately half of the women in Britain, and by several million men as well. Although these magazines represent an important source of health information for their readers, there is virtually no research which examines the content of the information provided. This paperprovides a descriptive analysis of the content of eight popular women's weekly magazines over a four‐week period.
The Cochrane Collaboration: the role of the UK Cochrane Centre in identifying the evidence
Authors: LEFEBVRE CAROL
Published: March 2003

This paper attempts to explain why systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials, based on as high a proportion as possible of the relevant studies, are so important in generating reliable information for evidence‐based decision making within health care. The preparation, maintenance and dissemination of such reviews is the challenge which has been taken up by the Cochrane Collaboration. The first phase of data collection is the identification of relevant studies. Currently, bibliographic databases are inadequate for this task. MEDLINE searches identify on average only about half of the relevant studies, and until 1994 there were no suitable indexing terms in EMBASE to identify randomized controlled trials. Co‐operation between the Cochrane Collaboration and both the National Library of Medicine and Elsevier, however, is already transforming this situation. From January 1994 a new indexing term has been added to EMBASE to help identify randomized controlled trials. From January 1995 a new indexing term will be added to MEDLINE to help identify controlled trials where the method of allocation to treatment or control cannot be described with certainty as being randomized. Also from January 1995 an additional 20,000 reports will be identifiable as randomized controlled trials in MEDLINE. Progress during the first 2 years of the Cochrane Collaboration has been encouraging, but much remains to be done if users of health services are to benefit from the evidence‐based health care which they deserve.
Alveolar soft part sarcoma: review of nine cases including two cases with unusual histology
Authors: Jong  , Kandel  , Fornasier  , Bell  , Bedard
Published: March 2003

Aim:

Alveolar soft part sarcoma is a very rare tumour. Nine cases are reviewed in order to identify new aspects of this tumour.

Methods and results:

The clinical course, histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural features of nine cases of alveolar soft part sarcoma were reviewed. Proliferative activity and p53 protein accumulation were assessed immunohistochemically. The patients were aged between 18 and 70 years. In the cases with sufficient follow‐up, survival was variable with two patients dying within 5 months and four alive at 4 years. Histologically all tumours had an alveolar component but one case also had a spindle component and another case had a pseudoglandular pattern. Six cases showed desmin immunoreactivity, one was muscle‐specific actin positive, two were positive for S100 protein and three were positive for vimentin. MIB‐1 immunostaining was seen in up to 35% of cells. Two cases showed p53 protein accumulation.

Conclusions:

There appeared to be no correlation between short term survival (4 years or less) and clinical presentation, adjuvant treatment, tumour size, histological grade, vascular invasion by tumour, proliferative index, or p53 protein accumulation. Although unusual, spindle cell or pseudoglandular components can be seen in alveolar soft part sarcoma.
Value of a panel of antibodies to identify the primary origin of adenocarcinomas presenting as bladder carcinoma
Authors: Torenbeek  , Lagendijk  , Van Diest  , Bril  , Van DE Molengraft  , Meijer
Published: March 2003

Aims: Adenocarcinomas may arise primarily from the urinary bladder, but secondary involvement from adenocarcinomas arising in adjacent organs is more common. In the present study we tried to differentiate primary urinary bladder adenocarcinomas from adenocarcinomas arising from the surrounding organs, based on their antigen profiles in routinely processed, paraffin‐embedded tissue specimens. We analysed the staining results using stepwise linear discriminant analysis. Methods and results: We investigated the usefulness of a panel of antibodies against cytokeratin 7, E48, cytokeratin 20, PSA, PSAP, CEA, vimentin, OC125 and HER‐2/neu, to discriminate primary bladder adenocarcinoma from adenocarcinomas arising from the prostate, urachus, colon, cervix, ovary and endometrium. In the differential diagnosis with urinary bladder adenocarcinoma, an overall correct classification was reached for 77% and 81% of urachal and colonic carcinomas, respectively, using CEA, for 93% of prostatic adenocarcinomas using PSA, for 82% and 70% of cervical and ovarian adenocarcinomas, respectively, using OC125, and for 91% of endometrial adenocarcinomas using vimentin. Adding other antibodies did not improve the classification results for any of these differential diagnoses. Conclusions: For the surgical pathologist, a panel of antibodies consisting of CEA, PSA, OC125 and vimentin is helpful to differentiate primary urinary bladder adenocarcinomas from adenocarcinomas originating from prostate and endometrium, less helpful in differentiation with urachal carcinoma, and not helpful in differentiation with colonic, cervical and ovarian carcinoma.
Phenotypic diversity of neurofibromatosis 2: association with plexiform schwannoma
Authors: Ishida  , Kuroda  , Motoi  , Oka  , Imamura  , Machinami
Published: March 2003

Aims:

Plexiform schwannoma (PS) is a rare variant of benign schwannoma characterized by a multinodular and plexiform growth pattern. In contrast to plexiform neurofibroma, PS is not associated with neurofibromatosis 1 (NF‐1; von Recklinghausen’s disease) and has no propensity for malignant transformation. The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between PS and the entities of neurofibromatosis 2 (NF‐2; bilateral acoustic neurofibromatosis) and schwannomatosis.

Methods and results:

Six cases of PS associated with NF‐2 or meningioma were retrospectively studied clinicopathologically and immunohistochemically. Four cases of PS were found among the patients with NF‐2, and all of these had multiple PSs; three cases also had multiple schwannomas of the spinal nerve roots and two of these had meningioma. Two other patients had meningioma, but not NF‐2. Four patients were male and two were female. The ages ranged from 18 to 52 years (mean 29.6 years). Histologically, PS showed the histological features that have been previously described, i.e. schwannoma composed of a predominant Antoni A‐type component with a plexiform growth pattern. Immunohistochemically, the tumour cells were positive for S100 protein. Each nodule was surrounded by perineural cells which were positive for epithelial membrane antigen.

Conclusions:

It is important to recognize that PS could be associated with NF‐2 or meningioma. The combination of PS and meningioma may be a ‘formes frustes’ of NF‐2, and is clinically overlapped with schwannomatosis.
Solitary plasmacytoma of the lung with light chain extracellular deposits: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Piard  , Yaziji  , Jarry  , Assem  , Martin  , Bernard  , Jacquot  , Justrabo
Published: March 2003

Aims:

We present the clinical and histopathological findings of an unusual pulmonary plasmacytoma associated with light chain deposits.

Methods and results:

The tumour was located in the main left stem bronchus 40 mm from the carina. Histologically, it was composed of sheets of well differentiated plasma cells. Large extracellular deposits of amorphous material were observed in the tumour. These deposits were Congo red negative and contained kappa light chains. They were electron dense granular and non‐filamentous. No plasmacytosis was identified by bone marrow biopsy and no monoclonal spike was shown by serum and urine electrophoresis.

Conclusions:

Our case is unusual in being endobronchial and showing light chain deposition.
Localized amyloidosis and gastrointestinal lymphoma: a rare association
Authors: Goteri  , Ranaldi  , Pileri  , Bearzi
Published: March 2003

Aims:

Five cases of primary gastrointestinal (GI) lymphoma (three in the stomach, one in the ileum (IPSID) and one in the colon) associated with localized AL amyloidosis were studied to identify morphological or immunohistochemical features which could explain the amyloid deposition.

Methods and results:

All the cases were low‐grade marginal zone B‐cell lymphomas; one case of gastric lymphoma and the IPSID also had a high‐grade component. The lymphomas had a monoclonal plasma cell population, with different light and heavy‐chain type expression in the five cases. Plasma cell differentiation was closely associated with the amyloid deposits. The latter were an incidental microscopic finding in one case, but produced tumoral masses in the others.

Conclusions:

The presence of amyloid in primary GI lymphoma is rare, but can have diagnostic value. In the present study, neither particular features of the lymphomatous proliferation nor specific agents are identified. Therefore, the factors predisposing to amyloid deposition require elucidation.