bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wnt11 controls cell contact persistence by local accumulation of Frizzled 7 at the plasma membrane
Authors: Witzel Sabine , Zimyanin Vitaly , Carreira-Barbosa Filipa , Tada Masazumi , Heisenberg Carl-Philipp
Published: November 2006

Wnt11 is a key signal, determining cell polarization and migration during vertebrate gastrulation. It is known that Wnt11 functionally interacts with several signaling components, the homologues of which control planar cell polarity in Drosophila melanogaster. Although in D. melanogaster these components are thought to polarize cells by asymmetrically localizing at the plasma membrane, it is not yet clear whether their subcellular localization plays a similarly important role in vertebrates. We show that in zebrafish embryonic cells, Wnt11 locally functions at the plasma membrane by accumulating its receptor, Frizzled 7, on adjacent sites of cell contacts. Wnt11-induced Frizzled 7 accumulations recruit the intracellular Wnt signaling mediator Dishevelled, as well as Wnt11 itself, and locally increase cell contact persistence. This increase in cell contact persistence is mediated by the local interaction of Wnt11, Frizzled 7, and the atypical cadherin Flamingo at the plasma membrane, and it does not require the activity of further downstream effectors of Wnt11 signaling, such as RhoA and Rok2. We propose that Wnt11, by interacting with Frizzled 7 and Flamingo, modulates local cell contact persistence to coordinate cell movements during gastrulation.
Role of IL-17 and regulatory T lymphocytes in a systemic autoimmune disease
Authors: Lohr Jens , Knoechel Birgit , Wang Jing Jing , Villarino Alejandro V. , Abbas Abul K.
Published: November 2006

To explore the interactions between regulatory T cells and pathogenic effector cytokines, we have developed a model of a T cell–mediated systemic autoimmune disorder resembling graft-versus-host disease. The cytokine responsible for tissue inflammation in this disorder is interleukin (IL)-17, whereas interferon (IFN)-γ produced by Th1 cells has a protective effect in this setting. Because of the interest in potential therapeutic approaches utilizing transfer of regulatory T cells and inhibition of the IL-2 pathway, we have explored the roles of these in the systemic disease. We demonstrate that the production of IL-17 and tissue infiltration by IL-17–producing cells occur and are even enhanced in the absence of IL-2. Regulatory T cells favor IL-17 production but prevent the disease when administered early in the course by suppressing expansion of T cells. Thus, the pathogenic or protective effects of cytokines and the therapeutic capacity of regulatory T cells are crucially dependent on the timing and the nature of the disease.
Dynamic Inositol Trisphosphate-mediated Calcium Signals within Astrocytic Endfeet Underlie Vasodilation of Cerebral Arterioles
Authors: Straub Stephen V. , Bonev Adrian D. , Wilkerson M. Keith , Nelson Mark T.
Published: November 2006

Active neurons communicate to intracerebral arterioles in part through an elevation of cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in astrocytes, leading to the generation of vasoactive signals involved in neurovascular coupling. In particular, [Ca2+]i increases in astrocytic processes (“endfeet”), which encase cerebral arterioles, have been shown to result in vasodilation of arterioles in vivo. However, the spatial and temporal properties of endfoot [Ca2+]i signals have not been characterized, and information regarding the mechanism by which these signals arise is lacking. [Ca2+]i signaling in astrocytic endfeet was measured with high spatiotemporal resolution in cortical brain slices, using a fluorescent Ca2+ indicator and confocal microscopy. Increases in endfoot [Ca2+]i preceded vasodilation of arterioles within cortical slices, as detected by simultaneous measurement of endfoot [Ca2+]i and vascular diameter. Neuronal activity–evoked elevation of endfoot [Ca2+]i was reduced by inhibition of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) receptor Ca2+ release channels and almost completely abolished by inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ uptake. To probe the Ca2+ release mechanisms present within endfeet, spatially restricted flash photolysis of caged InsP3 was utilized to liberate InsP3 directly within endfeet. This maneuver generated large amplitude [Ca2+]i increases within endfeet that were spatially restricted to this region of the astrocyte. These InsP3-induced [Ca2+]i increases were sensitive to depletion of the intracellular Ca2+ store, but not to ryanodine, suggesting that Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release from ryanodine receptors does not contribute to the generation of endfoot [Ca2+]i signals. Neuronally evoked increases in astrocytic [Ca2+]i propagated through perivascular astrocytic processes and endfeet as multiple, distinct [Ca2+]i waves and exhibited a high degree of spatial heterogeneity. Regenerative Ca2+ release processes within the endfeet were evident, as were localized regions of Ca2+ release, and treatment of slices with the vasoactive neuropeptides somatostatin and vasoactive intestinal peptide was capable of inducing endfoot [Ca2+]i increases, suggesting the potential for signaling between local interneurons and astrocytic endfeet in the cortex. Furthermore, photorelease of InsP3 within individual endfeet resulted in a local vasodilation of adjacent arterioles, supporting the concept that astrocytic endfeet function as local “vasoregulatory units” by translating information from active neurons into complex InsP3-mediated Ca2+ release signals that modulate arteriolar diameter.
The Metabolic Response of Heterotrophic Arabidopsis Cells to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Baxter Charles J. , Redestig Henning , Schauer Nicolas , Repsilber Dirk , Patil Kiran R. , Nielsen Jens , Selbig Joachim , Liu Junli , Fernie Alisdair R. , Sweetlove Lee J.
Published: November 2006

To cope with oxidative stress, the metabolic network of plant cells must be reconfigured either to bypass damaged enzymes or to support adaptive responses. To characterize the dynamics of metabolic change during oxidative stress, heterotrophic Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) cells were treated with menadione and changes in metabolite abundance and 13C-labeling kinetics were quantified in a time series of samples taken over a 6 h period. Oxidative stress had a profound effect on the central metabolic pathways with extensive metabolic inhibition radiating from the tricarboxylic acid cycle and including large sectors of amino acid metabolism. Sequential accumulation of metabolites in specific pathways indicated a subsequent backing up of glycolysis and a diversion of carbon into the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway. Microarray analysis revealed a coordinated transcriptomic response that represents an emergency coping strategy allowing the cell to survive the metabolic hiatus. Rather than attempt to replace inhibited enzymes, transcripts encoding these enzymes are in fact down-regulated while an antioxidant defense response is mounted. In addition, a major switch from anabolic to catabolic metabolism is signaled. Metabolism is also reconfigured to bypass damaged steps (e.g. induction of an external NADH dehydrogenase of the mitochondrial respiratory chain). The overall metabolic response of Arabidopsis cells to oxidative stress is remarkably similar to the superoxide and hydrogen peroxide stimulons of bacteria and yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), suggesting that the stress regulatory and signaling pathways of plants and microbes may share common elements.
PHASE DIAGRAMS FOR CERAMISTS: SUPPLEMENT NO. 1
Authors: MCMURDIE HOWARD F. , HALL F. P.
Published: November 2006

The original compilation of phase diagrams was made by F. P. Hall and Herbert Insley and was published as the October, 1933, issue of The Journal of The American Ceramzc Soctety. These authors then followed with a supplement, published as the April, 1938, issue of the same Journal, and with another complete compilation which was published as Part I1 of the Sovember, 1947, issue of this Journal.

The following compilation is the first supplement to the Sovember, 1947, issue. It includes corrections of errorst and omitted diagrams as well as those published since the 1917 compilation was printed.

It is to be understood that temperatures are given in degrees centigrade and the compositions are given in weight percentage unless otherwise stated on the individual diagram.
Successful treatment with topical tacrolimus in four cases of discoid lupus erythematosus
Authors: SUGANO Masayoshi , SHINTANI Yoichi , KOBAYASHI Keiko , SAKAKIBARA Noriyuki , ISOMURA Iwao , MORITA Akimichi
Published: November 2006

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), a cutaneous form of lupus erythematosus, is characterized as atrophic and scaly erythema and the lesions are often refractory to a wide range of topical or systemic therapies. Herein, we present four cases of DLE that were successfully treated with topical tacrolimus. Tacrolimus ointment (0.1%) was applied to DLE lesions twice daily and the erythematous plaques readily diminished after 4–8 weeks. Adverse effects, such as burning sensation or irritations, were not observed. These results indicate that topical tacrolimus might be an effective and alternative treatment to control DLE.
The role of childhood risk factors in initiation of alcohol use and progression to alcohol dependence
Authors: Sartor Carolyn E. , Lynskey Michael T. , Heath Andrew C. , Jacob Theodore , True William
Published: November 2006

Aims To identify childhood risk factors that predict (a) age of first drink and (b) time from first use to alcohol dependence (AD) onset, using survival analysis.

Participants The sample consisted of 1269 offspring (mean age = 20.1 years) of male twins from the Vietnam Era Twin Registry; 46.2% were offspring of alcohol‐dependent fathers.

Measurements DSM‐IV psychiatric diagnoses and substance use behaviors were assessed by structured telephone interview.

Findings First drink occurred on average at 15.7 years; AD onset at 19.1 years. A Cox proportional hazard regression analysis revealed conduct disorder (CD) as the most potent predictor of early alcohol initiation (HR 2.48; CI 1.85–3.32). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), maternal AD, paternal AD, male gender and parental divorce were also associated with early first use (HR 1.20–1.52; CI 1.04–1.39–1.18–1.96). A Cox proportional hazard regression analysis modeling first drink to AD identified nicotine dependence (HR 3.91; CI 2.48–6.17) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (HR 3.45; CI 2.08–5.72) as robust predictors of progression to AD. CD (HR 1.75; CI 1.10–2.77) and cannabis abuse (HR 1.88; CI 1.22–2.90) were also associated with rapid transition to AD.

Conclusions Results highlight the role of psychiatric and substance use disorders in progression from first drink to AD, underscore the continuity of risk associated with CD and indicate that (with the exception of CD) different factors play a role in transition to AD than in initiation of alcohol use. Distinctions between stages are interpreted in a developmental framework.
Does CDX2 expression predict Barrett's metaplasia in oesophageal columnar epithelium without goblet cells?
Authors: KERKHOF M. , BAX D. A. , MOONS L. M. G. , VAN VUUREN A. J. , VAN DEKKEN H. , STEYERBERG E. W. , KUIPERS E. J. , KUSTERS J. G. , SIERSEMA P. D. ,   FOR THE CYBAR STUDY GROUP
Published: November 2006

Background  Intestinal metaplasia (Barrett's oesophagus), but not cardiac‐type mucosa in columnar‐lined oesophagus, is regarded as premalignant. As intestinal metaplasia and cardiac‐type mucosa are endoscopically indiscernible, it is difficult to take targeted samples from columnar‐lined oesophagus with consequently a risk of having undetected intestinal metaplasia.

Aim  To investigate whether the intestinal markers CDX2, MUC2 and villin can predict the presence of undetected intestinal metaplasia in columnar‐lined oesophagus.

Methods  Presence of intestinal metaplasia or cardiac‐type mucosa was identified in 122 biopsy sets of columnar‐lined oesophagus from 61 patients, collected at two subsequent follow‐up upper endoscopies. CDX2, MUC2 and villin expression were determined by immunohistochemistry.

Results  All intestinal metaplasia samples (55) were positive for CDX2 and MUC2 and 32 of 55 for villin. CDX2 expression was detected in 23 of 67 (34%) samples with only cardiac‐type mucosa. Detection of CDX2 in cardiac‐type mucosa increased the likelihood of finding intestinal metaplasia in another biopsy set of columnar‐lined oesophagus (odds ratio 3.5, 95% CI = 1.2–10, P = 0.02). MUC2 was positive in 13 of 23 (57%) of CDX2‐positive cardiac‐type mucosa samples, whereas villin was detected in seven of 23 (30%).

Conclusions  CDX2 expression in cardiac‐type mucosa might be able to predict the presence of undetected intestinal metaplasia in columnar‐lined oesophagus, and thus may be a putative marker for the presence of intestinal metaplasia in the absence of goblet cells.
Ectopic lung transplantation induces the accumulation of eosinophil progenitors in the recipients' lungs through an allergen‐ and interleukin‐5‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Xavier‐Elsas P. , Santos‐Maximiano E. , Queto T. , Mendonça‐Sales S. , Joseph D. , Gaspar‐Elsas M. I. C. , Vargaftig B. B.
Published: November 2006

Background
Airway challenge of ovalbumin‐sensitized mice induces intrapulmonary accumulation of eosinophil progenitors.

Objective
To evaluate whether allergen‐challenged lungs release factors promoting intrapulmonary accumulation of haemopoietic cells, and define the role of allergic lung injury, we developed a transplantation model.

Methods
Lung tissue from allergen‐challenged, sensitized donors was ectopically grafted in syngeneic recipients, and haemopoietic progenitors inside the lungs of the recipients were quantified.

Results
In BALB/c mice, accumulation of progenitors occurred only when: (a) donors were sensitized and airway challenged with homologous allergen; (b) and recipients were sensitized. Grafts from the appropriate donors released biologically active IL‐5, which was effective in sensitized recipients. The effect of the appropriate donor–recipient combination was prevented by neutralizing anti‐IL‐5 antibody. Grafts from unchallenged, sensitized donors synergized with recombinant IL‐5 in sensitized recipients. Unlike BALB/c, grafts from naïve IL‐5 transgenic CBA/Ca mice (whose lungs contained a large number of progenitors, independently of sensitization and challenge) were effective in non‐transgenic, ovalbumin‐sensitized recipients.

Conclusion
This shows that: (a) intrapulmonary accumulation of progenitors is independent of immunological injury; (b) grafts systemically release IL‐5, which is required for progenitor accumulation in the recipients' lungs; (c) and sensitization is required for full responsiveness to IL‐5 and for generation of lung‐derived signals that synergize with IL‐5.
The effect of egg load on readiness to accept a low‐quality host plant is weak and age dependent in a geometrid moth
Authors: JAVOIŠ JUHAN , TAMMARU TOOMAS
Published: November 2006

Abstract 1. Most empirical and theoretical studies treat egg load as a major determinant of insect oviposition behaviour, and predict a positive link between egg load and readiness to oviposit.

2. In the present study, the correlation between egg load and readiness to lay eggs on a low‐ranked host was examined in wild‐caught moths, Scotopteryx chenopodiata L. (Lepidoptera: Geometridae).

3. No overall effect of egg load on oviposition could be detected. However, there was a significant interaction between egg load and wing wear: in only one wing‐wear class, out of four, high egg load tended to promote oviposition, while in the three other classes the effect was insignificant.

4. The results suggest that the effect of egg load on oviposition may depend on the age of the ovipositing insect.
Short‐term variability in physical forcing in temperate reservoirs: effects on phytoplankton dynamics and sedimentary fluxes
Authors: PANNARD ALEXANDRINE , BORMANS MYRIAM , LAGADEUC YVAN
Published: November 2006

1. The effects of wind events on phytoplankton dynamics were investigated in two temperate reservoirs.

2. Meteorological forcing, change in physical and chemical structure of the water column and biological responses of phytoplankton communities were followed for 3 weeks in three seasons.

3. Depending on the season, the phytoplankton response differed in response to nutrient and light conditions, and to the intensity of stratification and mixing.

4. We demonstrated that, on a time scale of a few days, wind events can modify phytoplankton dynamics, in terms of size structure and exported biomass. An increase of mixing favoured the largest size class and disadvantaged the smallest size class, while an increase in stratification had the opposite effects. The short‐term change in size structure was reflected in the sedimentary fluxes but with a time lag.
Effects of emergence phenology, taxa tolerances and taxonomic resolution on the use of the Chironomid Pupal Exuvial Technique in river biomonitoring
Authors: RAUNIO JANNE , PAAVOLA RIKU , MUOTKA TIMO
Published: November 2006

1. We studied chironomid communities of four rivers in south‐eastern Finland, differing in their water quality, during summer 2004 using the Chironomid Pupal Exuvial Technique, CPET. The aims of the study were to (i) test the adequacy of the generic‐level identification in the CPET method, (ii) define the emergence patterns of chironomid taxa classified as intolerant to organic pollution, (iii) assess the tolerance levels of intolerant chironomids and (iv) identify taxa most indicative of good water quality.

2. Procrustean rotation analysis indicated very strong concordance between the ordinations using either species or genus‐level data, suggesting that generic‐level identification of chironomids is adequate for biomonitoring based on CPET. However, when only a few taxa occur in great numbers, it may be advisable to identify these to the species level, especially if these taxa are important indicators of the impact in question.

3. The detection of a particular species may require accurate timing of sampling, whereas a species‐rich genus might be detected throughout a season. Given that the emergence of chironomid species may vary from year‐to‐year and between sampling sites, community differences detected at the species level may be related to between‐site variation in species’ emergence patterns rather than true differences in species composition.

4. Indicator species analysis (IndVal) showed that the distribution and abundance of intolerant chironomid taxa differed strongly among the studied rivers. Some of the intolerant taxa were restricted to unimpacted conditions, whereas others occurred mainly in impacted rivers. Thus, the indicator status of some genera (e.g. Eukiefferiella, Parametriocnemus, Stempellinella and Tvetenia) needs reassessment.
Signals of range expansions and contractions of vascular plants in the high Alps: observations (1994–2004) at the GLORIA* master site Schrankogel, Tyrol, Austria
Authors: PAULI HARALD , GOTTFRIED MICHAEL , REITER KARL , KLETTNER CHRISTIAN , GRABHERR GEORG
Published: November 2006

High mountain ecosystems are defined by low temperatures and are therefore considered to react sensitively to climate warming. Responding to observed changes in plant species richness on high peaks of the European Alps, an extensive setup of 1 m × 1 m permanent plots was established at the alpine‐nival ecotone (between 2900 and 3450 m) on Mount Schrankogel, a GLORIA master site in the central Tyrolean Alps, Austria, in 1994. Recording was repeated in a representative selection of 362 quadrats in 2004. Ten years after the first recording, we observed an average change in vascular plant species richness from 11.4 to 12.7 species per plot, an increase of 11.8% (or of at least 10.6% at a 95% confidence level). The increase in species richness involved 23 species (about 43% of all taxa found at the ecotone), comprising both alpine and nival species and was pronouncedly higher in plots with subnival/nival vegetation than in plots with alpine grassland vegetation. Only three species showed a decrease in plot occupancy: one was an annual species, one was rare, and one a common nival plant that decreased in one part of the area but increased in the uppermost part. Species cover changed in relation to altitudinal preferences of species, showing significant declines of all subnival to nival plants, whereas alpine pioneer species increased in cover. Recent climate warming in the Alps, which has been twice as high as the global average, is considered to be the primary driver of the observed differential changes in species cover. Our results indicate an ongoing range contraction of subnival to nival species at their rear (i.e. lower) edge and a concurrent expansion of alpine pioneer species at their leading edge. Although this was expected from predictive distribution models and different temperature‐related habitat preferences of alpine and nival species, we provide first evidence on – most likely – warming‐induced species declines in the high European Alps. The projected acceleration of climate warming raises concerns that this phenomenon could become the major threat to biodiversity in high mountains.
Statins inhibit lymphocyte homing to peripheral lymph nodes
Authors: Schramm René , Menger Michael D. , Harder Yves , Schmits Rudolf , Adam Oliver , Weitz‐Schmidt Gabriele , Schäfers Hans‐Joachim
Published: November 2006

Lymphocyte homing to peripheral lymph nodes is governed by adhesion molecules, including lymphocyte function‐associated antigen 1 (LFA‐1). Statins are 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors and exert anti‐inflammatory effects, e.g. inhibition of LFA‐1. It is still not known whether statin compounds are capable of inhibiting lymphocyte homing in vivo. We used a cervical lymph node preparation to study the effects of simvastatin on lymphocyte adhesion to high endothelial venules (HEVs) by means of intravital fluorescence microscopy (IVM). IVM revealed that firm adhesion of lymphocytes to HEV endothelium critically depends on the adhesive function of LFA‐1. The number of firmly adherent lymphocytes was reduced by 58% in LFA‐1‐deficient mice (P < 0·05 versus wild‐type controls). As in mutant mice, acute treatment with simvastatin (i.p. injection at 2 hr prior to IVM) inhibited the firm adhesion of lymphocytes to HEV endothelium of wild‐type animals by 63% (P < 0·05 versus vehicle‐treated wild‐type controls). In addition, acute treatment with the synthetic statin‐derivate LFA878 also reduced firm lymphocyte adhesion in HEVs by 63% (P > 0·05 versus placebo‐treated controls). Histological analysis after a 10‐day treatment with simvastatin showed reduced cellularity of cervical lymph nodes, as indicated by a reduction of the relative area of haematoxylin‐stained cell nuclei in cervical lymph node cross‐sections from 94 ± 0% in vehicle‐treated controls to 77 ± 3% in simvastatin‐treated mice (P < 0·05). We conclude that statin compounds are capable of inhibiting lymphocyte homing to murine peripheral lymph nodes in vivo. This may have novel implications for the treatment of adaptive immune responses, e.g. transplant rejection.
Hemin nutritional stress inhibits bacterial invasion of radicular dentine by two endodontic anaerobes
Authors: Love R. M.
Published: November 2006

Aim  To determine if anaerobic bacteria routinely found in infected dentine and root canals require the presence of heme in the environment in order for them to invade dentinal tubules.

Methodology  Noncarious, unrestored human teeth with single root canals were prepared for invasion experiments and soaked in either TSB‐M supplemented with hemin (5 μg mL−1) (n = 12 roots), TSB‐M media (n = 12 roots) or TSB‐M media followed by hemin soak (n = 12 roots) for 2 days, then inoculated with either Prevotella intermedia ATCC 25611 or Peptostreptococcus micros ATCC 33270 and incubated anaerobically for 14 days. Roots were prepared for light microscopy, stained with Brown and Brenn or antisera raised to the bacteria, and invasion within tubules assessed using a tubule invasion index (TI). Data were analysed using Student's t‐test and Mann–Whitney U‐test.

Results  Prevotella intermedia (TI = 0.7 ± 0.04) and P. micros (TI = 0.96 ± 0.08) showed low invasion when grown in the presence of hemin with cells generally restricted to the superficial 20 μm of the tubules, whilst neither bacteria invaded tubules (TI = 0) when hemin was absent from the growth media (P < 0.01).

Conclusions  Hemin was required in the growth medium for P. intermedia and P. micros to invade dentinal tubules.
A land‐cover map for South and Southeast Asia derived from SPOT‐VEGETATION data
Authors: Stibig H.‐J. , Belward A.S. , Roy P.S. , Rosalina‐Wasrin U. , Agrawal S. , Joshi P.K. , Hildanus  , Beuchle R. , Fritz S. , Mubareka S. , Giri C.
Published: November 2006

Aim  Our aim was to produce a uniform ‘regional’ land‐cover map of South and Southeast Asia based on ‘sub‐regional’ mapping results generated in the context of the Global Land Cover 2000 project.

Location  The ‘region’ of tropical and sub‐tropical South and Southeast Asia stretches from the Himalayas and the southern border of China in the north, to Sri Lanka and Indonesia in the south, and from Pakistan in the west to the islands of New Guinea in the far east.

Methods  The regional land‐cover map is based on sub‐regional digital mapping results derived from SPOT‐VEGETATION satellite data for the years 1998–2000. Image processing, digital classification and thematic mapping were performed separately for the three sub‐regions of South Asia, continental Southeast Asia, and insular Southeast Asia. Landsat TM images, field data and existing national maps served as references. We used the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) Land Cover Classification System (LCCS) for coding the sub‐regional land‐cover classes and for aggregating the latter to a uniform regional legend. A validation was performed based on a systematic grid of sample points, referring to visual interpretation from high‐resolution Landsat imagery. Regional land‐cover area estimates were obtained and compared with FAO statistics for the categories ‘forest’ and ‘cropland’.

Results  The regional map displays 26 land‐cover classes. The LCCS coding provided a standardized class description, independent from local class names; it also allowed us to maintain the link to the detailed sub‐regional land‐cover classes. The validation of the map displayed a mapping accuracy of 72% for the dominant classes of ‘forest’ and ‘cropland’; regional area estimates for these classes correspond reasonably well to existing regional statistics.

Main conclusions  The land‐cover map of South and Southeast Asia provides a synoptic view of the distribution of land cover of tropical and sub‐tropical Asia, and it delivers reasonable thematic detail and quantitative estimates of the main land‐cover proportions. The map may therefore serve for regional stratification or modelling of vegetation cover, but could also support the implementation of forest policies, watershed management or conservation strategies at regional scales.
Sensitivity and specificity of current diagnostic tests for gill‐associated virus in Penaeus monodon
Authors: Munro J , Owens L
Published: November 2006

This study reports the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and accuracy between a reverse transcriptase‐nested polymerase chain reaction (RT‐nPCR) and an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of gill‐associated virus (GAV) from a sample of 120 Penaeus monodon. Subsequently, the same comparisons were applied to the ELISA and haemagglutination (HA) assays for detection of GAV from a second 120 prawns. The optical density (OD) or dilution cut‐off point had a direct influence on the tested parameters. The cut‐off OD of 0.5–0.6 with the ELISA produced a sensitivity of 98% compared with RT‐nPCR. However, these OD produced the lowest accuracy (85.8% and 86.7%, respectively). The OD cut off of 0.75 resulted in the highest accuracy (91.7%) and NPV (81.3%) while it had the second highest sensitivity (97%) and PPV (93.3%). However, the OD cut off of 0.9 had the highest specificity (80%). With regards to HA, the titre cut off at 8 resulted in the highest sensitivity, specificity and NPV (94%, 100% and 100%, respectively) compared with the ELISA, while the HA titre of 16 gave the highest accuracy (73%) and the second highest specificity (75%). A HA titre of 64 gave the highest PPV (81%). Using the RT‐nPCR as the gold standard, the ELISA had an accuracy of 91.7% when using a cut off >0.75 as a positive result. When compared with the ELISA, the HA had an accuracy of 73% when using an HA titre cut off greater than 16 as a positive result. These results indicate that alternative tests for GAV (ELISA and HA) can be used to explore multiple questions about the disease status of P. monodon stocks in a cost‐effective manner.
Comparison of lipopolysaccharide and protein profiles between Flavobacterium columnare strains from different genomovars
Authors: Zhang Y , Arias C R , Shoemaker C A , Klesius P H
Published: November 2006

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and total protein profiles from four Flavobacterium columnare isolates were compar. These strains belonged to genetically different groups and/or presented distinct virulence properties. Flavobacterium columnare isolates ALG‐00‐530 and ARS‐1 are highly virulent strains that belong to different genomovars while F. columnare FC‐RR is an attenuated mutant used as a live vaccine against F. columnare. Strain ALG‐03‐063 is included in the same genomovar group as FC‐RR and presents a similar genomic fingerprint. Electrophoresis of LPS showed qualitative differences among the four strains. Further analysis of LPS by immunoblotting revealed that the avirulent mutant lacks the higher molecular bands in the LPS. Total protein analysis displayed by immunoblotting showed differences between the strains analysed although common bands were present in all the isolates. FC‐RR lacked two distinct common bands (34 and 33 kDa) shared by the other three isolates. Based on the difference of LPS and total protein profiles, it is possible to discriminate the attenuated mutant FC‐RR from other F. columnare strains.
The Arabidopsis ClpB/Hsp100 family of proteins: chaperones for stress and chloroplast development
Authors: Lee Ung , Rioflorido Ignatius , Hong Suk‐Whan , Larkindale Jane , Waters Elizabeth R. , Vierling Elizabeth
Published: November 2006

The Casein lytic proteinase/heat shock protein 100 (Clp/Hsp100) proteins are chaperones that act to remodel/disassemble protein complexes and/or aggregates using the energy of ATP. In plants, one of the best‐studied proteins from this family is cytosolic ClpB1 (At1g74310), better known in Arabidopsis asAtHsp101, which is a heat shock protein required for acclimation to high temperatures. Three other ClpB homologues have been identified in the Arabidopsis genome (ClpB2, ClpB3 and ClpB4; At4g14670, At5g15450 and At2g25140). To define further the roles of these chaperones in plants we investigated their intracellular localization, evolutionary relationships, patterns of expression and the phenotypes of corresponding T‐DNA insertion mutants. We first found that ClpB2 was misannotated; there is no functional ClpB/Hsp100 gene at this locus. By fusing the putative transit peptides of ClpB3 and ClpB4 with GFP, we showed that these proteins are targeted to the chloroplast and mitochondrion, respectively, and we therefore designated them as ClpB‐p and ClpB‐m. Phylogenetic analysis supports two major lineages of ClpB proteins in plants, an ‘eukaryotic’, cytosol/nuclear‐localized group containingAtHsp101, and an organelle‐localized lineage, containing both ClpB‐p and ClpB‐m. AlthoughAtHsp101, ClpB‐p and ClpB‐m transcripts all accumulate dramatically at high temperatures, the T‐DNA insertion mutants of ClpB‐p and ClpB‐m show no evidence of seedling heat stress phenotypes similar to those observed inAtHsp101 mutants. Strikingly, ClpB‐p knockouts were seedling lethals, failing to accumulate chlorophyll or properly develop chloroplasts. Thus, in plants, the function of ClpB/Hsp100 proteins is not restricted to heat stress, but a specific member of the family provides housekeeping functions that are essential to chloroplast development.
Sorghum can Compensate for Chilling‐Induced Grain Loss
Authors: Wood A. W. , Tan D. K. Y. , Mamun E. A. , Sutton B. G.
Published: November 2006

Chilling during male gametophyte development in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) inhibits development of microspores, causing male sterility. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of night chilling on yield components in sorghum. This study identified and employed collar distance as a morphological marker of anther development following chilling. Two cultivars Buster and Bonus, were subjected to three temperature regimes (25/20 °C, 25/12 °C and 25/8 °C) for five consecutive nights at 0 cm collar distance, which corresponds to the meiotic stage of anther development. Pollen viability, grain number and harvest index were reduced in both cultivars at 12 and 8 °C night temperatures. Total grain weight of cultivar Bonus was not reduced as much as Buster at 12 °C because of the ability of Bonus to increase individual grain weight when grain number was low. This work further elucidates the mechanism and genetic potential of chilling‐induced yield compensation for developing sorghum cultivars that are better adapted to low night temperatures.
Application of bovine microsatellite markers for genetic diversity analysis of European bison (Bison bonasus)
Authors: Roth T. , Pfeiffer I. , Weising K. , Brenig B.
Published: November 2006

In this study, the cross‐amplification of a commercial multiplex set of 11 cattle (Bos taurus) microsatellites was tested on a panel of 35 European bison (Bison bonasus) individuals. After polymerase chain reaction optimization, all loci cross‐amplified successfully in investigated bisons. Number of alleles and observed and expected heterozygosity per locus are in the range of 2–4, 0.086–0.629 and 0.288–0.621 respectively. The availability of a heterologous set of multiplexed microsatellite markers derived from cattle opens an avenue for collecting profound genetic data for efficient conservation management strategies of the European bison.
Impact of dominance effects on sow longevity
Authors: Serenius T. , Stalder K.J. , Puonti M.
Published: November 2006

The purpose of the current study was to estimate variance components, especially dominance genetic variation, for overall leg action, length of productive life and sow stayability until third and fifth parity in the Finnish pig populations. The variance components were estimated in two purebred [Landrace (LR), n = 23 602 and Large White (LW), n =22 984] and crossbred (LR × LW, n = 17 440) data sets. Five different analyses were carried out for all the traits to compare the effect of sows’ inbreeding, common litter environment and parental dominance in the statistical model when determining the genetic correlations of the traits for the two purebred and crossbred populations. Estimated heritabilities for the traits ranged from 0.04 to 0.06. The estimates for the proportion of dominance variance of phenotypic variance (d2) varied between 0.01 and 0.17, and was highest in the crossbred dataset. The genetic correlations of the same traits in purebred and crossbred were all high (>0.75). Based on current results, the effect of dominance should be accounted for in the breeding value estimation of sow longevity, especially when data from crossbred animals are included in the analyses. Because dominance genetic variation for sow longevity exists that variation should be utilized through planned matings in producing sows for commercial production.
Long‐term change in the structure of a Posidonia oceanica landscape and its reference for a monitoring plan
Authors: Ardizzone Giandomenico , Belluscio Andrea , Maiorano Luigi
Published: November 2006

Abstract On the basis of a detailed cartographic survey carried out by Side Scan Sonar and a towed underwater video camera during 2005, and from a series of historical maps (1959, 1980, 1990), an extensive regression of Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile beds was evidenced for a vast area of the central Tyrrhenian Sea (Latium coast, Italy). The total loss of P. oceanica surface was assessed through GIS estimate. In 1959, the Posidonia beds extended over 7290 ha, while in the 2005 survey they had regressed to 2899 ha, a loss of about 60% of their coverage. Also the seagrass lower limit showed a general depth decrease in time. Total seagrass coverage loss and lower limit regression were not uniform along the whole investigated areas and three main sub‐areas have been identified with different degrees of regression somehow related with coastal potential human‐mediated impacts. From different coverage estimates of the present survey and of the previous maps, minimum sampling areas were calculated through bootstrapping simulation routines from small sampling areas (Landscape Units) to reach the nearest estimate of the observed condition in the different periods.
Asymptomatic dermatophyte scalp carriage in school children in Adana, Turkey
Authors: Ilkit Macit , Demirhindi Hakan , Yetgin Mesut , Ates Aylin , Turaç‐Biçer Aygül , Yula Erkan
Published: November 2006

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of asymptomatic dermatophyte scalp carriage and symptomatic tinea capitis in Adana Province, Çukurova region, Turkey. For this purpose, a screening study was performed in five schools, between January 2004 and May 2005, covering a total of 5143 children with 2740 (53.3%) boys and 2403 (46.7%) girls, aged 7–14 years (9.6 ± 2.0). The diagnosis was made using the cotton swab method with inoculation onto Sabouraud glucose agar amended with cycloheximide, chloramphenicol and gentamicin. Among 10 (0.2%) cases, six asymptomatic carriers (mean age 10.7 ± 2.3) and four symptomatic cases (mean age 8.3 ± 0.5) were detected, all of whom were boys and had immigrated from the south‐eastern and eastern region of Anatolia, Turkey. The mean age differences were found to be statistically significant (Mann–Whitney U = 3.000, P = 0.046). Boys were found to be more prone to asymptomatic carriage (P = 0.033), but not tinea capitis (P > 0.05). Zoophilic dermatophytes, namely Microsporum canis (40%) and Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. mentagrophytes (40%) were the most commonly isolated species, followed by anthropophilic Trichophyton tonsurans (10%), while no causative agent was detected in a case (10%) with tinea capitis superficialis. Scalp cultures were found to be dermatophyte‐negative after 3‐ to 8‐month follow‐up in cases with asymptomatic carriage. As a conclusion, the prevalence of asymptomatic carrier state was similar with the prevalence of symptomatic cases, and we found a predominance of zoophilic species.
Involvement of cyclooxygenase‐2 and vascular endothelial growth factor in vascularization and lymph node metastasis of colorectal cancers with submucosal invasion
Authors: Abe Akihito , Fukui Hirokazu , Fujii Shigehiko , Fujita Mikio , Mukawa Kenichiroh , Ichikawa Kazuhito , Tomita Shigeki , Ono Yuko , Imai Yasuo , Imura Johji , Kubota Keiichi , Fujimori Takahiro
Published: November 2006

Background and Aims:  Although patients with early colorectal cancer invading the submucosa (CRC‐sm) may be treated with endoscopic mucosal resection alone, they generally undergo additional surgery because of the risk of lymph node metastasis. The aims of the present study were to examine the roles of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in tumor vascularization and to investigate whether COX‐2 and VEGF expression and tumor vascularity are useful markers for predicting lymph node metastasis in CRC‐sm.

Methods:  Twenty‐seven resected specimens of CRC‐sm with lymph node dissection were examined, and expression of COX‐2 and VEGF was evaluated immunohistochemically and scored. Microvessel density (MVD) in CRC‐sm tissues was estimated using a Macscope system after CD34 immunostaining. The relationships among clinicopathological parameters, COX‐2 and VEGF expression, and MVD in CRC‐sm tissues were then analyzed.

Results:  Scores for COX‐2, VEGF and MVD were all significantly higher in patients with CRC‐sm with lymphatic invasion or lymph node metastasis. COX‐2 score (P < 0.0001) and VEGF score (P = 0.035) were significantly correlated with MVD in CRC‐sm tissues. In addition, COX‐2 score was significantly correlated with VEGF score in the CRC‐sm specimens examined.

Conclusions:  Both COX‐2 and VEGF are involved in tumor vascularization in CRC‐sm. COX‐2 expression, VEGF expression, and MVD are possible markers for predicting lymph node metastasis in patients with CRC‐sm, and use of COX‐2 expression may be clinically practical.
Amelioration of hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury in the remnant liver after partial hepatectomy in rats
Authors: Hiranuma Susumu , Ito Koji , Noda Yumi , Ozasa Hisashi , Koike Yuichi , Horikawa Saburo
Published: November 2006

Background and Aims: Reactive oxygen species have been implicated in the development of hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. I/R injury remains an important problem in massive hepatectomy and organ transplantation. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of edaravone, a newly synthesized free radical scavenger, on I/R injury in the remnant liver after partial hepatectomy in rats.

Methods: Partial (70%) hepatic ischemia was induced in rats by occluding the hepatic artery, portal vein, and bile duct to left and median lobes of liver. Total hepatic ischemia (Pringle maneuver) was induced by occluding the hepatoduodenal ligament. Edaravone was intravenously administered to rats just before reperfusion and partial (70%) hepatectomy was performed just after reperfusion.

Results: Edaravone significantly reduced the increases in the levels of serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in rats with liver injury induced by 90‐min of partial ischemia followed by 120‐min of reperfusion. Histopathological analysis showed that edaravone prevented inflammatory changes in the livers with I/R injury. Edaravone also decreased the levels of myeloperoxidase activity, which is an index of neutrophil infiltration, and interleukin‐6 mRNA, which is a proinflammatory cytokine. Additionally, edaravone improved the survival rate in partial hepatectomy rats with I/R injury induced by the Pringle maneuver.

Conclusions: Edaravone administration prior to reperfusion protected the liver against I/R injury. Edaravone also improved the function of the remnant liver with I/R injury after partial hepatectomy. Therefore, edaravone may have applicability for major hepatectomy and liver transplantation in the clinical setting.
Multiple consultations and polypharmacy of patients attending geriatric outpatient units of university hospitals
Authors: Suzuki Yusuke , Akishita Masahiro , Arai Hidenori , Teramoto Shinji , Morimoto Shigeto , Toba Kenji
Published: November 2006

Background:  Multiple consultations in older patients may increase the chance of overlapping prescriptions or inappropriate drug prescribing.

Methods:  We carried out a survey investigating the status of multiple consultations and the polypharmacy of patients attending geriatric outpatient units of five university hospitals.

Results:  The patients who received multiple consultations did not have a different number of diagnosed disorders and drugs prescribed by geriatricians compared with the patients who received a single consultation.

Conclusions:  No significant difference in diagnostic and prescribing profiles between the patients with referrals and those without, together with the relatively smaller incidence of inappropriate prescriptions by referrals to non‐geriatric specialists, suggest that multiple consultations per se may not necessarily increase the risk for adverse drug events in clinical settings.
Manure and sulfadiazine synergistically increased bacterial antibiotic resistance in soil over at least two months
Authors: Heuer Holger , Smalla Kornelia
Published: November 2006

Manuring of arable soils may stimulate the spread of resistance genes by introduction of resistant populations and antibiotics. We investigated effects of pig manure and sulfadiazine (SDZ) on bacterial communities in soil microcosms. A silt loam and a loamy sand were mixed with manure containing SDZ (10 or 100 mg per kilogram of soil), and compared with untreated soil and manured soil without SDZ over a 2‐month period. In both soils, manure and SDZ positively affected the quotients of total and SDZ‐resistant culturable bacteria [most probable number (MPN)], and transfer frequencies of plasmids conferring SDZ resistance in filter matings of soil bacteria and an Escherichia coli recipient. Detection of sulfonamide resistance genes sul1, sul2 and sul3 in community DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and hybridization revealed a high prevalence of sul1 in manure and manured soils, while sul2 was mainly found in the loamy sand treated with manure and high SDZ amounts, and sul3 was not detected. By PCR quantification of sul1 and bacterial rrn genes, a transient effect of manure alone and a long‐term effect of SDZ plus manure on absolute and relative sul1 abundance in soil was shown. The dynamics in soil of class 1 integrons, which are typically associated with sul1, was analysed by amplification of the gene cassette region. Integrons introduced by manure established in both soils. Soil type and SDZ affected the composition of integrons. The synergistic effects of manure and SDZ were still detectable after 2 months. The results suggest that manure from treated pigs enhances spread of antibiotic resistances in soil bacterial communities.
Tissue factor and vascular endothelial growth factor expression in colorectal cancer: relation with cancer recurrence
Authors: Altomare D. F. , Rotelli M. T. , Pentimone A. , Rossiello M. R. , Martinelli E. , Guglielmi A. , De Fazio M. , Marino F. , Memeo V. , Colucci M. , Semeraro N.
Published: November 2006

Objective  This study was undertaken to quantify tissue factor (TF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in colorectal cancer and to evaluate their possible relationship with recurrence.

Method  TF and VEGF were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in surgical tumour specimens and normal mucosa from 50 consecutive patients with colorectal cancer who were followed up for 3 years for the assessment of disease recurrence.

Results  TF and VEGF antigens were detected in all tumour samples. VEGF, but not TF, was much higher in tumour than in normal mucosa (P < 0.0001), as also confirmed by measurement of specific mRNAs. There was a strong correlation between TF and VEGF antigens (P < 0.0005) in tumour tissue but not in normal mucosa. Neither protein was related to tumour stage, grade or size. Local or distant recurrence was statistically related to pTNM stage. High VEGF, but not TF, levels in tumour extracts were associated with an increased risk of recurrence both by univariate (RR, 4.00, 95% CI: 1.45–11.0) and multivariate analyses (RR, 3.65, 95% CI: 1.33–10.0).

Conclusion  These findings suggest that VEGF content in colorectal cancer is an independent risk factor for tumour recurrence and might help select patients who might benefit from adjuvant therapy.