bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of T cells in psoriasis
Authors: Prinz JC
Published: December 2004

Evidence for a key role of T cells in the pathogenesis of psoriasis has come from both experimental and clinical data. Initially, generalized immunosuppressants, intended for use in transplant settings, were found to improve clinical signs and symptoms of psoriasis. Their efficacy attracted attention to the activated T cells that are a major component of the inflammatory infiltrate of psoriatic lesions. Further research determined that T cells from patients with psoriasis could transmit disease in animal models. These findings laid the groundwork for characterizing the pathogenesis of psoriasis as immune mediated with skin‐directed T cells playing a central role. Once these pathogenic T cells have entered the skin, they become activated and release cytokines and chemokines to attract other immune cells to perpetuate the inflammatory cascade. As the role of the T cell in psoriasis has evolved and understanding of immunopathology has increased, a multitude of biologic targets have been revealed. Newer strategies for the treatment of psoriasis have therefore focused on modifying T cells in this disease through direct elimination of activated T cells, inhibition of T‐cell activation, or inhibition of cytokine secretion or activity. The mechanisms by which these new biologic agents act on psoriasis will affect their profile of efficacy and safety. Important selection criteria for optimal antipsoriatic therapies include long‐term safety and tolerability, ability to produce long‐lasting remissions, and convenient dosing regimens.
Primary cutaneous actinomycosis of the forehead
Authors: Cocuroccia B , Gubinelli E , Fazio M , Girolomoni G
Published: December 2004

Actinomycosis is a granulomatous suppurative bacterial disease caused by anaerobic actinomyces, which presents primarily with the cervico‐facial, thoracic, abdominal or pelvic form. Cutaneous involvement is well documented and it is usually secondary to local extension or exceptionally to ematogenous spreading from visceral sites. Primary cutaneous actinomycosis is very rare and usually associated with external trauma and/or local ischemia. We report on the case of a primary cutaneous actinomycosis of the forehead in a 59‐year‐old man with diabetes mellitus who had had a preceding cranial trauma and several cutaneous reconstructive surgical procedures. The patient was treated successfully with combined antibiotic therapy.
Microinvasive squamous cell carcinoma arising on lichen sclerosus of the penis
Authors: Nasca MR , Panetta C , Micali G , Innocenzi D
Published: December 2004

The case of a 70‐year‐old white man with a 10‐year history of penile lichen sclerosus (LS) who developed microinvasive squamous cell carcinoma on LS is described. A high incidence of penile cancer arising on genital LS has recently been observed. The authors stress the importance of an adequate diagnosis and long‐term follow‐up in patients with penile LS because of the malignant potential of the disease.
Narrow‐band UV‐B micro‐phototherapy: a new treatment for vitiligo
Authors: Menchini G , Tsoureli‐Nikita E , Hercogova J
Published: December 2004

Background Vitiligo is a common, acquired, often familial, melanocytopenic disorder with focal depigmentation of the skin. There are several new treatments, that appear to have higher success rates than previous therapies for the treatment of vitiligo. Among these, the most promising one appears to be narrow‐band UV‐B therapy.

Objective The aim of this open study is to evaluate the efficacy of the BIOSKIN® micro‐phototherapy in the treatment of vitiligo in 734 patients.

Subjects and methods Seven hundred and thirty‐four individuals affected by vitiligo (segmental and non‐segmental) were treated for 12 months with a new device called BIOSKIN® that can produce a focused beam of narrow band UV‐B (microphoto‐therapy) on vitiligo patches only. Photographs of the subjects were taken at the beginning of the therapy and every month thereafter for 12 months. The response to treatment was estimated in two comparable photographs using planimetry. The duration of the clinical study was of 2 years and 8 months. At the end of this period 734 patients had received each a mean of 24 sessions of treatment during a period of 12 months.

Results Five hundred and ten subjects (69.48%) of the 734 achieved normal pigmentation on more than 75% of the treated areas. In particular, 112 of these were totally repigmented. One hundred and fifty‐five (21.12%) individuals achieved 50–75% pigmentation of the treated areas, and 69 (9.40%) showed less than 50% repigmentation. No patients showed acute or chronic relevant adverse effects.

Conclusion BIOSKIN® UV‐B microphototherapy seems highly effective in restoring pigmentation in patients affected by vitiligo. As no side‐effects have been observed, this could represent the treatment of choice for vitiligo limited to less than 30% of the skin surface.
Primary classic Kaposi's sarcoma of the penis: report of a case and review
Authors: Micali G , Nasca MR , De Pasquale R , Innocenzi D
Published: December 2004

Kaposi's sarcoma is a vascular tumour of multifocal origin occurring primarily on the extremities. The case of a 45‐year‐old HIV negative and HHV‐8 positive man with an asymptomatic reddish macular lesion on the inner layer of the prepuce is described. Although primary penile Kaposi's sarcoma is a relatively uncommon disorder in HIV negative men, dermatologists and venereologists should consider this possibility when treating non‐specific penile lesions. A minimal penile lesion with non‐distinctive clinical features may sometimes be the exclusive manifestation of Kaposi's sarcoma, making histologic evaluation necessary to establish the diagnosis.
Echocardiographic findings in subjects with psoriatic arthropathy
Authors: Sar⋖caoglu H , Güllülü S , Bülbül Baskan E , Cordan J , Tunal⋖ Ş
Published: December 2004

Background Psoriatic arthropathy (PA) is a seronegative arthropathy with a 5–20% prevalence among psoriatics. In recent years, cardiovascular abnormalities have been shown in patients with seronegative arthropathies.

Objective/aim Since echocardiography is a non‐invasive method to evidence cardiac abnormalities, we planned a study to evaluate heart involvement in subjects with psoriatic athropathy using this method.

Methods A total of 21 subjects (15 women, six men) aged from 34 to 71 years were involved in this study. After PA diagnosis was confirmed by skeletal scintigraphic survey, patients were evaluated by Doppler echocardiogram for cardiovascular disturbances and the results were compared with those for a sex‐ and age‐matched control group.

Results The left ventricle end‐diastolic and end‐systolic diameters of the PA group were statistically different from those of the control group (P < 0.05), but no difference was observed in ejection fraction and the mitral E/A ratios. The presence of diastolic dysfunction was significantly related to the presence of arthropathy and the duration of psoriasis (P < 0.05).

Conclusion We conclude that mild diastolic dysfunction may accompany PA but our data should be confirmed by further studies.
The anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome
Authors: Baba M , Karakaş M , Aksungur VL , Homan S , Yücel A , Acar MA , Memışoǧlu HR
Published: December 2004

Background The anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome is a potentially fatal multisystemic reaction to anticonvulsant medications.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics of anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome.

Results A total 32 subjects, aged from 6 to 72 years, diagnosed as having anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome based on clinical and histopathological findings, were included in the study. In 22 of the 32 cases, the anticonvulsants had been administered prophylactically after craniotomy and in 10 cases for epilepsy. When the cases were assessed for skin lesions, maculopapular eruption was registered in 22, Stevens–Johnson syndrome in five, and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) in five. Treatment included suspension of the offending drug and then, except for the cases with toxic epidermal necrolysis, administration of corticosteroids. The 22 cases that required anticonvulsant therapy were treated with valproic acid. In all cases, we observed rapid clinical improvement corroborated by laboratory findings.

Conclusions It is essential that due importance be given to the development of an eruption in individuals to whom anticonvulsants are administered after craniotomy because anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome is likely to be life‐threatening.
Monochromatic excimer light (308 nm): an immunohistochemical study of cutaneous T cells and apoptosis‐related molecules in psoriasis
Authors: Bianchi B , Campolmi P , Mavilia L , Danesi A , Rossi R , Cappugi P
Published: December 2004

Background Various types of UVB radiation source (290–320 nm) are used in treating psoriasis and their therapeutic mechanism has been attributed to immunosuppressive properties. Recently, a new UVB source generated by a 308‐nm excimer laser has been introduced for the treatment of psoriasis.

Objective In this study we investigated the immunohistochemical evaluation of T cells and the expression of various apoptosis‐related molecules in the psoriatic hyperproliferative skin before and after treatment with 308‐nm monochromatic excimer light (MEL).

Methods Ten patients (three women and seven men), ranging in age from 29 to 79 years, affected by plaque‐type psoriasis vulgaris, were treated with MEL. Biopsies from psoriatic lesions of MEL‐treated sites were taken before, 24 h and/or 48 h after the first irradiation and analysed by the immunophosphatase alkaline technique (APAAP).

Results MEL treatment was found to cause a significant decrease in the rate of proliferation of keratinocytes and a relevant depletion of T cells in all psoriatic lesions, 48 h after the first irradiation: 308 nm light eliminated T cells from the psoriatic epidermis and also from the dermis, highlighting the ability of this UVB source to penetrate the skin compared with normal UVB and establish direct cytotoxic action on T cells infiltrating skin lesions. Rapid clearing of psoriatic lesions involves potential molecular targets of UVB in T cells including p53, which is upregulated after direct irradiation with 308‐nm UVB. Moreover, Bcl‐2 expression in healing psoriasis epidermis after MEL treatment is significantly decreased compared with untreated skin and the TUNEL (TdT‐mediated dUTP‐biotin nick end labelling) technique revealed the presence of relevant apoptotic keratinocytes in the irradiated epidermis.

Conclusions These results indicate that psoriatic skin after monochromatic excimer light therapy is associated with significant T‐cell depletion and alterations of apoptosis‐related molecules accompanied by a decreased proliferation index and clinical remission.
Mechanisms of apoptosis: UVA1‐induced immediate and UVB‐induced delayed apoptosis in human T cells in vitro†
Authors: Breuckmann F , Von Kobyletzki G , Avermaete A , Radenhausen M , Höxtermann S , Pieck C , Schöneborn P , Gambichler T , Freitag M , Hoffmann K , Altmeyer P
Published: December 2004

Objective The decreased number of lymphocytes combined with the induction of apoptosis and necrosis seems to be the key mechanism of many phototherapeutic agents. The purpose of our study was to determine the regulating pathway, time course and dose dependence of UVA1‐ vs. UVB‐induced cell death in human T lymphocytes.

Methods In our study we applied an in vitro method using single‐laser flow cytometry differentiating between intact (Annexin V–FITC−/PI−), apoptotic (Annexin V–FITC+/PI−) and necrotic T cells (Annexin V–FITC+/PI+) following UVA1 (340–400 nm) or UVB (280–320 nm) irradiation. Additionally, fluorescence microscopy of apoptotic cells was performed using acridine orange and ethidium bromide.

Results Compared to DNA‐binding fluorescent microscopy, the flow cytometric method revealed similar, but more precise, results concerning apoptosis and necrosis. Our data indicate that UVB irradiation exerts its effects by the induction of delayed apoptosis within 24–48 h. In contrast, UVA1 irradiation acts via the dose‐dependent induction of immediate apoptosis and necrosis within 6 h.

Conclusions Our findings demonstrate that UVA1 irradiation may effect structural and functional modifications leading to immediate initiation of apoptosis followed by early membrane rupture, whereas UVB irradiation leads to DNA damage followed by delayed apoptosis, obviously without initial membrane alteration.
Pyoderma gangrenosum or leukaemia cutis?
Authors: Rafael MRMdaSA , Fernandes CMBM , Machado JMdaC , Rodrigues PAPA , Cardoso OJP , Afonso A , Sousa AB , Pacheco FMDdeA , Proença RM
Published: December 2004

We report a case of atypical bullous pyoderma gangrenosum associated with acute myeloid leukaemia in which we found atypical myeloid cells within the skin lesion. Although there have been many reported cases of leukaemia‐associated pyoderma gangrenosum, the finding of myeloblasts in the skin has rarely been described.
Linear spiradenoma with focal malignant transformation
Authors: Braun‐Falco M , Bonel H , Ring J , Hein R
Published: December 2004

Malignant spiradenoma is an exceedingly rare adnexal tumour clinically characterized by rapid enlargement of a pre‐existing, long‐standing benign spiradenoma. Microscopic examination typically reveals a continuum between benign spiradenoma and areas of malignant transformation. Biological behaviour is unpredictable and it should be regarded as a potentially lethal neoplasm. Treatment recommendations require radical surgical excision. The reported case of a 23‐year‐old female illustrates the malignant transformation of a 1.5 cm nodule within a large linear spiradenoma almost covering the frontal aspect of the lower leg. In reviewing the literature, malignant transformation seems to occur slightly more often in multiple than in solitary spiradenomas. It is unclear whether excision restricted to the malignant area is an advisable treatment option in comparison to total excision of all spiradenoma nodules. In the presented case, the transformed area was excised. The patient is free of recurrence after 2 years.
Lupus vulgaris developing at the site of misdiagnosed scrofuloderma
Authors: Motta A , Feliciani C , Toto P , De Benedetto A , Morelli F , Tulli A
Published: December 2004

Cutaneous tuberculosis is a rare form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis primarily occurring in developing countries. The recent increase in the incidence of tuberculosis, especially due to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections, has led to a resurgence of extrapulmonary forms of this disease. We describe a case of lupus vulgaris in a 33‐year‐old woman who had a 5‐year history of a slowly growing plaque on her neck. The lesion was located at the site of surgery repairing the scar resulting from the incision of a subcutaneous abscess during childhood. This lesion was misdiagnosed as bacterial abscess. Histopathologic examination of the plaque revealed non‐caseating tuberculoid granulomas consisting of lymphocytes, epithelioid and giant cells. Staining for acid‐fast bacilli and culture from biopsied tissue was negative. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA, performed on a skin biopsy specimen, was positive. A diagnosis of lupus vulgaris developing at the site of a previous misdiagnosed scrofuloderma was made. Conventional antitubercular therapy with rifampicin, isoniazid and ethambutol was administered for 6 months, resulting in resolution of the lesion.
Resolution of orofacial granulomatosis with amalgam removal
Authors: Guttman‐Yassky E , Weltfriend S , Bergman R
Published: December 2004

A 61‐year‐old woman presented with a 2‐year history of an abnormal erythematous swelling on the upper lip and cheek. Upon examination there were no other physical findings. Histological examination found discreet sarcoidal granulomas in the lower dermis. Routine laboratory studies, chest radiographs and pulmonary functions were all normal. Clinical presentation and histological findings were, therefore, compatible with the diagnosis of orofacial granulomatosis (OFG). The patient was patch tested with an extended standard series that included metal–salt, dental prosthesis, bakery and corticosteroids series. The patch test was positive (score ++) after 48 and 72 h for mercury in the metal–salt and dental prosthesis series. During the past decade the patient had received amalgam fillings of several dental cavities, including one adjacent to the swollen cheek. The unilateral localization of the soft tissue swelling adjacent to the amalgam tooth fillings, along with the positive patch test for mercury, raised the possibility that the OFG was part of a delayed hypersensitive reaction to the fillings. The patient therefore underwent a total amalgam replacement procedure; complete disappearance of the swelling overlying the right cheek was observed within 7 weeks and the swelling of the upper lip subsided completely within 6 months. We propose that mercury in amalgam tooth fillings is another cause of OFG and suggest appropriate patch testing in patients who do not have an apparent cause of OFG.
The role of the cytoskeleton in the morphogenesis and function of stomatal complexes
Authors: Galatis Basil , Apostolakos Panagiotis
Published: December 2004

Microtubules (MTs) and actin filaments (AFs) form highly organized arrays in stomatal cells that play key roles in the morphogenesis of stomatal complexes. The cortical MTs controlling the orientation of the depositing cellulose microfibrils (CMs) and affecting the pattern of local wall thickenings define the mechanical properties of the walls of stomatal cells, thus regulating accurately their shape. Besides, they are involved in determination of the cell division plane. Substomatal cavity and stomatal pore formation are also MT‐dependent processes. Among the cortical MT arrays, the radial ones lining the periclinal walls are of particular morphogenetic importance. Putative MT organizing centers (MTOCs) function at their focal regions, at least in guard cells (GCs), or alternatively, these regions either organize or nucleate cortical MTs. AFs are involved in cell polarization preceding asymmetrical divisions, in determination of the cell division plane and final cell plate alignment and probably in transduction of stimuli implicated in stomatal complex morphogenesis. Mature kidney‐shaped GCs display radial AF arrays, undergoing definite organization cycles during stomatal movement. They are involved in stomatal movement, probably by controlling plasmalemma ion‐channel activities. Radial MT arrays also persist in mature GCs, but a role in stomatal function cannot yet be attributed to them.

ContentsSummary613I.Introduction614II.Cytoskeleton and development of the stomatal complexes614III.Cytoskeleton and stomatal cell shaping620IV.Stomatal pore formation624V.Substomatal cavity formation625VI.Stomatal complex morphogenesis in mutants626VII.Cytoskeleton dynamics in functioning stomata628VIII.Mechanisms of microtubule organization in stomatal cells631IX.Conclusions‐perspectives634References635
Reproductive isolation between autotetraploids and their diploid progenitors in fireweed,Chamerion angustifolium(Onagraceae)
Authors: Husband Brian C. , Sabara Holly A.
Published: December 2004

Polyploidy is viewed as an important mechanism of sympatric speciation, but few studies have documented the reproductive barriers between polyploids and their diploid progenitors or explored the significance of assortative mating for polyploid establishment. Here we synthesize new and existing data on five prezygotic (geographic isolation, flowering asynchrony, pollinator fidelity, self‐pollination, gametic selection) and two postzygotic (selection against triploid hybrids, inbreeding depression) reproductive barriers between diploid and autotetraploid individuals of the perennial plantChamerion angustifolium. We also present estimates of realized rates of between‐ploidy mating and examine the impact of assortative mating on polyploid dynamics using computer simulation. Reproductive isolation (measured from 0 to 1) was enforced by each barrier, including: geographic separation (RI = 0.41), flowering asynchrony (0.13), pollinator fidelity (0.85), self‐pollination (0.44), gametic selection (0.44) and postzygotic isolation (0.87). Total reproductive isolation was 0.997, with the largest relative contributions by geography (41%) and pollinator fidelity (44%). Prezygotic barriers accounted for 97.6% isolation overall; however, tetraploids were more assortatively mating (98%) than diploids (79%). Realized reproductive isolation between ploidy levels in sympatric populations was 87% and tetraploids produced significantly fewer triploids than did diploids. Simulations indicated that the observed prezygotic isolation will reduce the strength of minority disadvantage acting on tetraploids and increase the importance of differences in viability and fertility between cytotypes in regulating polyploidy establishment.
Polymorphic microsatellite DNA markers from the marine gastropodLittorina saxatilis
Authors: Sokolov E. P. , Sokolova I. M. , Pörtner H.‐O.
Published: December 2004

Seven polymorphic microsatellite loci are described in the marine intertidal gastropodLittorina saxatilis. Preliminary data on allelic variation of these loci in a White Sea population ofL. saxatilisare presented in order to assess their potential utility as high‐resolution genetic markers for this model species.
Microsatellite primers for Australian and New Guinean pythons isolated with an efficient marker development method for related species
Authors: Jordan Philip W. , Goodman Amanda E. , Donnellan Stephen
Published: December 2004

Microsatellites are powerful molecular genetic markers for many evolutionary and biotechnological investigations, however, development of sufficient microsatellite markers is time‐consuming and expensive especially considering the vast numbers of species for which they could be used. In light of the conservative nature of microsatellite loci between related species we describe an alternative approach to microsatellite development. A single round of microsatellite isolation enabled the characterization of sufficient loci for a large number of related python species. From 21 loci isolated in the focal species, an average of 86.2% were conserved within the other species while an average of 60.5% were polymorphic in all 13 python species analysed. Our approach will decrease significantly the expense and time required for microsatellite development for large numbers of related species.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in Portunus pelagicus (Crustacea: Portunidae)
Authors: Yap E. S. , Sezmis E. , Chaplin J. A. , Potter I. C. , Spencer P. B. S.
Published: December 2004

Seven dinucleotide and one tetranucleotide microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized, using routine protocols, from the blue swimmer crab, Portunus pelagicus. These loci will be useful for investigating the population structure of this broadly distributed and economically important portunid. In particular, all eight loci were polymorphic in P. pelagicus collected from throughout Australia. In addition, the genotype frequencies at each locus in each population sample were usually not significantly different from those expected under Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium conditions. Six of the eight loci also showed moderate to high levels of polymorphism in an undescribed species of Portunus from northern Australia.
Characterization of microsatellite loci in the marine seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum (Phaeophyceae; Fucales)
Authors: Olsen J. L. , Sadowski G. , Stam W. T. , Veldsink J. H. , Jones K.
Published: December 2004

Ascophyllum nodosum L. dominates rocky intertidal shores throughout the temperate North Atlantic. Six microsatellite loci were developed for A. nodosum using enriched libraries. The number of alleles ranged from 9 to 24 and heterozygosities from 0.2213 to 0.7785. Ascophyllum is monotypic. There was no cross‐reactivity observed with Fucus serratus, F. vesiculosus or F. evanescens.
Characterization of polymorphic microsatellite markers in the water rat (Hydromys chrysogaster)
Authors: Hinds Francis E. , Close Robert L. , Campbell Mary T. , Spencer Peter B. S.
Published: December 2004

The water rat (Hydromys chrysogaster) is well adapted to a semiaquatic life and is endemic to dispersed regions of Australia and New Guinea. To analyse the genetic diversity of water rat populations, polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed. A partial genomic library was screened for microsatellite sequences. Following isolation of the microsatellite sequences, primers were designed to amplify seven loci and of these loci, five were polymorphic. The sample tested for polymorphisms came from areas across Australia and New Guinea. Between three and 13 alleles were detected for each locus. In addition the primers amplified two loci in Mus musculus and Rattus rattus.
Development of a polymerase chain reaction‐based denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis technique to study nematode species biodiversity using the 18s rDNA gene
Authors: Foucher A. , Wilson M.
Published: December 2004

A polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) technique was developed to evaluate nematode biodiversity. Amplified fragments (approximately 630 bp) of nematode 18S rDNA could be separated by DGGE at 60 °C for 5.5 h using a gradient of 30–55% denaturant. No DNA from the nematodes’ food source was observed on the gels. The sensitivity of the system was tested using DNA from six species of Steinernema. The system clearly separated PCR fragments from all species except S. tami and S. carpocapsae, which had similar melting behaviour despite being widely separated on the phylogenetic tree.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellites in Echinochloa (L.) Beauv. spp.
Authors: Danquah E. Y. , Hanley S. J. , Brookes R. C. , Aldam C. , Karp A.
Published: December 2004

Five primer pairs were developed that amplify microsatellite loci in three agronomically important Echinochloa (L.) Beauv. species: E. colona (L.) Link, E. crus‐galli (L.) Beauv. and E. crus‐pavonis (Kunth) Schultes. The microsatellites were tested on 24 individuals representing three species collected in rice fields from different geographical regions and revealed 3–7 alleles per microsatellite. Gene diversity [1 − Σpij2] for four polymorphic loci within E. crus‐galli ranged from 0.12 to 0.61. Alleles at a fifth locus were useful in discriminating the species. The microsatellites should provide useful markers for intraspecific diversity studies and aid classification of species within this complex genus.
Polymorphic microsatellite DNA markers in the ant Formica exsecta
Authors: Gyllenstrand Niclas , Gertsch Pia J. , Pamilo Pekka
Published: December 2004

Highly polymorphic genetic markers provide a useful tool for estimating important genetic parameters in studies of the evolution of sociality in insects. Here we report 14 polymorphic microsatellite markers developed in the ant Formica exsecta. The number of alleles found ranged between 3 and 18 per locus. These markers were developed for studying genetic population structure and mating structure in F. exsecta populations with varying social organizations (monogyne and polygyne types of societies). Cross‐species amplification indicated that some of the markers might be usable even in species belonging to different subfamilies.
Characterization of microsatellite loci in the spruce bark beetle Ips typographus (Coleoptera: Scolytinae)
Authors: Sallé A. , Kerdelhué C. , Breton M. , Lieutier F.
Published: December 2004

Ips typographus is an economically important pest of Norway spruce stands. We developed five polymorphic microsatellite markers using a biotin enrichment protocol. The number of alleles ranged from three to 11 per locus and no strong evidence for null alleles was found. Heterozygosity ranged from 0.3 to 0.97. These markers could be useful tools to study the population structure and genetic consequences of I. typographus population outbreaks.
Eleven new microsatellites of the sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.)
Authors: Tsigenopoulos C. S. , Hellemans B. , Chistiakov D. A. , Libertini A. , Kotoulas G. , Volckaert F.
Published: December 2004

Eleven polymorphic microsatellites were isolated from the sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax, using a microsatellite enrichment protocol and selective hybridization with an (AC)12 probe. The loci showed different variation patterns in 21 unrelated sea bass individuals, with a mean number of alleles of 8.6 and a mean observed heterozygosity of 0.68. These microsatellite markers should be useful for population genetic analysis and biodiversity studies of sea bass.
Characterization of spotted hyena, Crocuta crocuta microsatellite loci
Authors: Wilhelm Kerstin , Dawson Deborah A. , Gentle Louise K. , Horsfield Giles F. , Schlötterer Christian , Greig Carolsyn , East Marion , Hofer Heribert , Tautz Diethard , Burke Terry
Published: December 2004

We have isolated 10 polymorphic microsatellite loci in the spotted hyena, Crocuta crocuta. The loci displayed between eight and 14 alleles in a minimum of 12 individuals tested. These loci will be used to investigate relatedness within social groups, the genetic structure of populations, sexual selection, and mate choice in spotted hyenas.
Characterization of microsatellite loci in a seed chalcid, Megastigmus spermotrophus (Hymenoptera: Torymidae)
Authors: Boivin S. , Kerdelhué C. , Rozenberg M. A. , Cariou M. L. , Roques A.
Published: December 2004

Highly polymorphic microsatellite markers can supply demographic information on founder events and range expansion following initial introduction of invasive insect species. Six microsatellite loci were isolated from a partial DNA library in order to study the invasion patterns of a seed chalcid, Megastigmus spermotrophus, introduced to Europe and New Zealand. Allelic diversity at all described loci was high, ranging from 17 to 30 alleles per locus. All six loci were successfully amplified in 15 congeneric species.
The mitochondrial control region of the black howler monkey, Alouatta caraya (Primates, Platyrrhini), and the development of new primers
Authors: Ascunce M. S. , Cortes‐Ortiz L. , Mudry M. D.
Published: December 2004

The analysis of polymorphic genetic markers is necessary to assess the genetic variability of natural populations in order to develop effective conservation strategies. However, the molecular genetic variability of most neotropical primates is not well known. Therefore, we describe 13 primers for the amplification and sequencing of the mitochondrial control region that were developed for Alouatta caraya. Six of these primers gave unique bands on four other platyrrhine species (Alouatta palliata, Ateles paniscus, Ateles belzebuth and Saimiri boliviensis) showing their utility for control region amplification and sequencing in these platyrrhine species.
Characterization of dinucleotide microsatellite markers in the parthenogenetic mourning gecko (Lepidodactylus lugubris)
Authors: Wilmhoff C. D. , Csepeggi C. E. , Petren K.
Published: December 2004

We present 16 variable dinucleotide microsatellite markers to quantify genetic variation in the parthenogenetic gecko, Lepidodactylus lugubris. Genetic diversity at these loci was unusually high for an asexual species. Subsets of individuals produced identical genotypes across all loci. Individual loci revealed evidence of polyploidy and marked differences between observed and expected heterozygosity, indicating the presence of null alleles. These patterns conform to prior expectations based on the distant genetic relationships between the presumed sexual progenitors of L. lugubris. Comparisons with sexual relatives will be required to determine the sources of the observed genetic variation.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci from yellowtail Seriola quinqueradiata and cross‐species amplification within the genus Seriola
Authors: Ohara E. , Nishimura T. , Sakamoto T. , Nagakura Y. , Mushiake K. , Okamoto N.
Published: December 2004

We developed five microsatellite primer pairs for the yellowtail Seriola quinqueradiata. The loci were highly polymorphic, with eight to 14 alleles per locus, and can be used to study kinship and/or population structure. Many of these primer pairs amplified polymorphic loci in cross‐species amplification tests for two other Seriola species (S. lalandi and S. dumerili).
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite DNA markers in the malaria vector Anopheles nili
Authors: Berthomieu A. , Kengne P. , Awono‐Ambene P. , Raymond M. , Fontenille D. , Weill M.
Published: December 2004

The mosquito Anopheles nili is widespread across tropical Africa and appears to be the major vector of malaria in some rural forested areas of central Africa. Here we describe the isolation of 11 microsatellite polymorphic loci from the A. nili genome, displaying a high among‐individual diversity (0.58–0.96) in samples from west Africa. Two loci displayed a significant departure from Hardy–Weinberg proportions across all samples, suggesting a substantial frequency of null alleles. The remaining nine loci are good candidates for further genetic studies in this species.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic DNA microsatellite markers from Schistosoma japonicum
Authors: Shrivastava J. , Barker G. C. , Johansen M. V. , Xiaonong Z. , Aligui G. D. , Mcgarvey S. T. , Webster J. P.
Published: December 2004

The ability of microsatellite loci to reveal genetic diversity within the trematode Schistosoma japonicum is demonstrated. Eleven novel microsatellite markers were isolated, assessing variability within 80 S. japonicum individuals from three Chinese and one Philippine population. Novel primers were also tested upon S. mansoni and S. haematobium. Eight primers showed polymorphic amplification from all S. japonicum groups, three amplified S. mansoni DNA, but none amplified S. haematobium DNA. Only six of 27 previously isolated S. mansoni‐specific primers amplified S. japonicum DNA. Allelic diversity and observed heterozygosity ranged from 4 to 21 and 0.05 to 0.82, respectively, suggesting high variability.
Isolation and characterization of variable microsatellite loci in Lilium philadelphicum (Liliaceae)
Authors: Horning Matthew E. , Maloney Scott C. , Webster Michael S.
Published: December 2004

Here we describe the characterization of six polymorphic microsatellite loci for Lilium philadelphicum (Liliaceae). Polymorphism levels ranged from 7 to 30 alleles per locus with a mean number of 15 alleles per locus. Observed heterozygosity (HO) ranged from 0.17 to 0.82 and did not deviate from Hardy–Weinberg expectations in the three western Montana populations included in the analysis. These loci are proving useful in studying gene flow between populations of this species distributed across its range in North America.
Characterization of microsatellite loci in the Blue‐and‐gold Macaw, Ara ararauna (Psittaciformes: Aves)
Authors: Caparroz R. , Miyaki C. Y. , Baker A. J.
Published: December 2004

Microsatellite loci were isolated from the Blue‐and‐gold Macaw (Ara ararauna), a Neotropical parrot, from a GTn and CTn enriched genomic library. Six loci were characterized varying from one to 11 alleles per locus. Five loci exhibited greater than 50% heterozygosity within the 49 individuals genotyped. Furthermore, the primers also amplified the DNA from two additional genera of Neotropical parrots, indicating the potential utility of these markers for population‐level studies and conservation efforts of Neotropical parrots.
Development of microsatellite markers for muskellunge (Esox masquinongy) and cross‐species amplification in two other esocids
Authors: Reading Benjamin J. , Wills Paul S. , Heidinger Roy C. , Heist Edward J.
Published: December 2004

We report the development of seven polymorphic microsatellite loci in muskellunge (Esox masquinongy) using an unenriched subgenomic library. Polymorphic loci exhibited 2–11 alleles with observed heterozygosities ranging from 0.190 to 0.917 (n = 24). All seven loci amplified by their respective primer pairs resulted in monomorphic products in northern pike (E. lucius) whereas three loci amplified monomorphic products in grass pickerel (E. americanus americanus); these results imply conservation of flanking sequence but loss of polymorphism between these closely related species. Only one of six microsatellite primers developed in a previous study in northern pike amplified polymorphic products in muskellunge.
Characterization of microsatellite markers in the tsetse fly, Glossina pallidipes (Diptera: Glossinidae)
Authors: Ouma J. O. , Cummings M. A. , Jones K. C. , Krafsur E. S.
Published: December 2004

Glossina pallidipes is a vector of African trypanosomiasis. Here we characterize eight new polymorphic microsatellite loci in 288 G. pallidipes sampled from 12 Kenya populations. The number of alleles per locus ranged from four to 36 with a mean of 20.5 ± 10.1. Expected single locus heterozygosities varied from 0.044 to 0.829. Heterozygosity averaged 0.616 ± 0.246. No linkage disequilibrium was found. We also report results in eight other tsetse species estimated by using the primers developed in G. pallidipes. The primers worked best in G. swynnertoni and G. austeni and worst in G. m. morsitans and G. m. submorsitans.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in the saltmarsh beetle Pogonus chalceus (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Authors: Dhuyvetter Hilde , Desender Konjev
Published: December 2004

Five microsatellite loci were isolated from the saltmarsh beetle Pogonus chalceus. Polymorphism ranges from six to 16 alleles, and observed and expected heterozygosities range from 0.437–0.764 and 0.588–0.786, respectively. Most loci cross‐amplified well in four other Pogonus species.
Bulking generated considerable bias in detection of amplified fragment length polymorphism variations in oat, fringed brome and smooth bromegrass
Authors: Fu Y. B. , Whitwill S. , Ferdinandez Y. S. N. , Coulman B. E. , Richards K. W.
Published: December 2004

Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) variations in bulk and plant‐by‐plant (PBP) samples of five oat (Avena sativa L.) accessions, one fringed brome (Bromus ciliatus L.) accession and two smooth bromegrass (B. inermis Leyss.) accessions were compared. The proportions of AFLP bands detected in PBP, but lost in bulk, samples of oat, fringed brome, and smooth bromegrass ranged from 19 to 31%, 40 to 44%, and 22 to 33% of the total bands scored, respectively. These lost bands had occurred at frequencies ranging from 0.1 to 1 in the PBP samples. These findings demonstrate bulking can generate substantial bias in detection of AFLP variations.
Eight microsatellite markers for the neotropical tree Luehea seemannii (Tiliaceae)
Authors: Jones F. A. , Poelchau M. F. , Bouck A. C. , Hubbell S. P.
Published: December 2004

We isolated eight polymorphic microsatellites from the neotropical tree Luehea seemannii for gene flow and genetic structure studies. We used a streptavidin subtractive enrichment technique to develop a library of CA/GT repeats. Eight loci were screened for diversity from 96 individuals from Barro Colorado Island (BCI) and neighbouring Gigante peninsula in Panama. Luehea seemannii shows moderate levels of genetic diversity within these two populations. Allelic richness ranged from four to nine alleles and averaged 6.44 alleles per locus. Average expected heterozygosity was 0.65 on BCI and 0.60 on Gigante. Results are compared to microsatellite data from another wind‐dispersed gap colonizing species common in Panama.
Bi‐parentally inherited species‐specific markers identify hybridization between rainbow trout and cutthroat trout subspecies
Authors: Ostberg Carl O. , Rodriguez Russell J.
Published: December 2004

Eight polymerase chain reaction primer sets amplifying bi‐parentally inherited species‐specific markers were developed that differentiate between rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and various cutthroat trout (O. clarki) subspecies. The primers were tested within known F1 and first generation hybrid backcrosses and were shown to amplify codominantly within hybrids. Heterozygous individuals also amplified a slower migrating band that was a heteroduplex, caused by the annealing of polymerase chain reaction products from both species. These primer sets have numerous advantages for native cutthroat trout conservation including statistical genetic analyses of known crosses and simple hybrid identification.
Characterization of microsatellite loci in Spartina species (Poaceae)
Authors: Blum Michael J. , Sloop Christina M. , Ayres Debra R. , Strong Donald R.
Published: December 2004

The cordgrasses in the genus Spartina have become model organisms for studying biological invasions from both ecological and genetic perspectives. Here we characterize 11 disomic loci in Spartina alterniflora that show promise for population studies and for studying hybridization events between S. alterniflora and S. foliosa. Comparisons among invasive and native S. alterniflora populations showed that levels of allelic variation are lower in invasive populations. In addition, nearly all loci that amplified in S. foliosa populations and in a swarm of S. alterniflora×foliosa hybrids were polymorphic. We also found that several loci amplified successfully in other Spartina species.
Microsatellite loci from the northern house mosquito (Culex pipiens), a principal vector of West Nile virus in North America
Authors: Keyghobadi Nusha , Matrone Michael A. , Ebel Gregory D. , Kramer Laura D. , Fonseca Dina M.
Published: December 2004

Microsatellites were isolated and characterized in the northern house mosquito, Culex pipiens, a widespread pest species and important vector of diseases such as West Nile virus. An enrichment protocol yielded 150 positive clones. We designed primers to amplify 17 unique (GT)n microsatellites, eight of which amplified cleanly and were polymorphic. A survey of 29 individuals showed that these loci are highly variable with the number of alleles ranging from seven to 19 and expected heterozygosity ranging from 0.66 to 0.93. These markers will be useful for studies of population structure and intraspecific variation in epidemiological characteristics of Cx. pipiens.
Microsatellites for use in Nothofagus cunninghamii (Nothofagaceae) and related species
Authors: Jones Rebecca C. , Vaillancourt René E. , Jordan Gregory J.
Published: December 2004

Nothofagus cunninghamii (myrtle) has a widespread distribution through the temperate rainforest of southeastern Australia with some disjunct populations existing in putative glacial refugia. Polymorphic nuclear markers are required to resolve the biogeographical history of the species and will also be useful for conservation and forestry applications in this and other species of Nothofagus. Fourteen polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated from N. cunninghamii, with four to 10 alleles amplified in 15 individuals tested. Transferability to other species of Nothofagus was successful, with six loci transferring to all eight other species tested.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci from the Dungeness crab Cancer magister
Authors: Toonen Robert J. , Locke Melissa , Grosberg Rick
Published: December 2004

The Dungeness crab, Cancer magister, is the focus of one of the most intensely harvested fisheries in North America. Given its economic importance, there is considerable interest in assessing the degree and spatial pattern of genetic structure in C. magister. To that end, we developed a series of 17 hypervariable microsatellite loci. Six of these 17 loci could be amplified in a single multiplex PCR reaction. Using dye‐labelled primers all six loci can be coamplified and scored simultaneously on an automated sequencer. The ability to multiplex multiple loci greatly increases the ease and speed of genotyping for this species.
Polymorphic microsatellite loci in the mosquito Aedes polynesiensis
Authors: Behbahani A. , Dutton T. J. , Raju A. K. , Townson H. , Sinkins S. P.
Published: December 2004

The Aedes scutellaris complex of mosquitoes contains the most important vectors of lymphatic filariasis in the South Pacific region, particularly Aedes polynesiensis. Six microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized from this species; all were polymorphic and appear to be useful markers for population studies. Five of the primer pairs also amplified homologous products from three other species in the A. scutellaris group and from the important dengue vector Aedes albopictus.
Microsatellite multiplexes for high‐throughput genotyping of French grunts (Haemulon flavolineatum, Pisces: Haemulidae) and their utility in other grunt species
Authors: Williams D. A. , Purcell J. , Cowen R. K. , Hughes C. R.
Published: December 2004

Grunts of the genus Haemulon are abundant in the western Atlantic and are an important component of regional fisheries. Management efforts for these and other Caribbean reef fish require an understanding of population structure and the extent of dispersal among populations. We characterized 11 polymorphic microsatellite loci for French grunts (Haemulon flavolineatum) and grouped them into three PCR multiplexes to facilitate high‐throughput genotyping. These loci will be useful for population genetic studies of French grunts. Cross‐species amplifications suggest these loci are also suitable for population genetic studies of H. aurolineatum, H. plumieri, and H. sciurus.
Microsatellite loci for the greater horseshoe bat, Rhinolophus ferrumequinum (Rhinolophidae, Chiroptera) and their cross‐utility in 17 other bat species
Authors: Dawson Deborah A. , Rossiter Stephen J. , Jones Gareth , Faulkes Christopher G.
Published: December 2004

We have isolated 14 polymorphic greater horseshoe bat, Rhinolophus ferrumequinum microsatellite loci. The number of alleles varied from two to 12 in 58 individuals. These loci will be used to assign paternity in order to characterize patterns of breeding and reproductive success in a wild R. ferrumequinum population. Loci were also tested in 17 other bat species. Twelve loci cross‐amplified in other species and three loci were polymorphic in all eight Rhinolophus species tested.
Isolation by distance, based on microsatellite data, tested with spatial autocorrelation (spaida) and assignment test (spassign)
Authors: Pálsson Snæbjörn
Published: December 2004

spassign and spaida are two small programs useful to detect isolate by distance of microsatellite loci. The programs are written in C and are available for Linux and Windows system at http://www.hi.is/~snaebj/programs.html. spaida calculates two estimates of spatial autocorrelation, Moran's I and Geary's c, first by assuming the infinite allele model, and second by assuming a stepwise mutational model. spassign calculates the assignment probabilities of an individuals genotype to the location where it was sampled and compares probabilities of assignment to other locations. Genetic distances among regions based on the overall differences in likelihoods are calculated.
Development and characterization of microsatellite markers for Fagus crenata Blume
Authors: Asuka Y. , Tani N. , Tsumura Y. , Tomaru N.
Published: December 2004

Microsatellite markers can yield high‐resolution genetic profiles for individual identification, and for parentage analysis, when evaluating gene dispersal in populations. Fagus crenata is an important dominant species in the cool temperate forests in Japan, and although many studies on the species have been conducted the patterns of gene dispersal via pollen and seeds are poorly understood. In order to be better informed about gene dispersal in Fagus crenata, we have developed 16 new microsatellite loci from an enriched library of genomic DNA. These 16 loci were highly variable, with 3–40 alleles per locus and an expected heterozygosity value of 0.11–0.98.