Tracking temporal shifts in area, biomes, and pollinators in the radiation of Salvia (sages) across continents: leveraging anchored hybrid enrichment and targeted sequence data

PREMISE OF THE STUDY

A key question in evolutionary biology is why some clades are more successful by being widespread geographically, biome diverse, or species-rich. To extend understanding of how shifts in area, biomes, and pollinators impact diversification in plants, we examined the relationships of these shifts to diversification across the mega-genus Salvia.

METHODS

A chronogram was developed from a supermatrix of anchored hybrid enrichment genomic data and targeted sequence data for over 500 of the nearly 1000 Salvia species. Ancestral areas and biomes were reconstructed using BioGeoBEARS. Pollinator guilds were scored, ancestral pollinators determined, shifts in pollinator guilds identified, and rates of pollinator switches compared.

KEY RESULTS

A well-resolved phylogenetic backbone of Salvia and updated subgeneric designations are presented. Salvia originated in Southwest Asia in the Oligocene and subsequently dispersed worldwide. Biome shifts are frequent from a likely ancestral lineage utilizing broadleaf and/or coniferous forests and/or arid shrublands. None of the four species diversification shifts are correlated to shifts in biomes. Shifts in pollination system are not correlated to species diversification shifts, except for one hummingbird shift that precedes a major shift in diversification near the crown of New World subgen. Calosphace. Multiple reversals back to bee pollination occurred within this hummingbird clade.

CONCLUSIONS

Salvia diversified extensively in different continents, biomes, and with both bee and bird pollinators. The lack of tight correlation of area, biome, and most pollinator shifts to the four documented species diversification shifts points to other important drivers of speciation in Salvia.

Tracking temporal shifts in area, biomes, and pollinators in the radiation of Salvia (sages) across continents: leveraging anchored hybrid enrichment and targeted sequence data

PREMISE OF THE STUDY

A key question in evolutionary biology is why some clades are more successful by being widespread geographically, biome diverse, or species-rich. To extend understanding of how shifts in area, biomes, and pollinators impact diversification in plants, we examined the relationships of these shifts to diversification across the mega-genus Salvia.

METHODS

A chronogram was developed from a supermatrix of anchored hybrid enrichment genomic data and targeted sequence data for over 500 of the nearly 1000 Salvia species. Ancestral areas and biomes were reconstructed using BioGeoBEARS. Pollinator guilds were scored, ancestral pollinators determined, shifts in pollinator guilds identified, and rates of pollinator switches compared.

KEY RESULTS

A well-resolved phylogenetic backbone of Salvia and updated subgeneric designations are presented. Salvia originated in Southwest Asia in the Oligocene and subsequently dispersed worldwide. Biome shifts are frequent from a likely ancestral lineage utilizing broadleaf and/or coniferous forests and/or arid shrublands. None of the four species diversification shifts are correlated to shifts in biomes. Shifts in pollination system are not correlated to species diversification shifts, except for one hummingbird shift that precedes a major shift in diversification near the crown of New World subgen. Calosphace. Multiple reversals back to bee pollination occurred within this hummingbird clade.

CONCLUSIONS

Salvia diversified extensively in different continents, biomes, and with both bee and bird pollinators. The lack of tight correlation of area, biome, and most pollinator shifts to the four documented species diversification shifts points to other important drivers of speciation in Salvia.

Phylogeny of New World Salvia subgenus Calosphace (Lamiaceae) based on cpDNA (psbA-trnH) and nrDNA (ITS) sequence data

Salvia subgenus Calosphace (Lamiaceae) is economically and ethnomedicinally significant and comprised of more than 500 species. Although strongly supported as monophyletic, it has received no comprehensive systematic research since the initial establishment of 91 taxonomic sections in 1939. Representative taxa of 73 sections of Calosphace were sampled to investigate the phylogenetic relationships and identify major lineages using chloroplast (intergenic spacer psbA-trnH) and nuclear ribosomal DNA (internal transcribed spacer). Phylogenetic analysis of the combined data sets established monophyly of seven sections (Blakea, Corrugatae, Erythrostachys, Hastatae, Incarnatae, Microsphace, and Sigmoideae) and four major lineages (S. axillaris, "Hastatae clade", "Uliginosae clade", and "core Calosphace"). Sections spanning two or more centers of diversity are not supported by our results; rather, supported relationships exhibit significant geographic structure. Mexico is supported as the geographic origin of Calosphace, and no more than seven dispersal events to South America are required to account for current disjunct distributions.

Evolution and origins of the Mazatec hallucinogenic sage, Salvia divinorum (Lamiaceae): a molecular phylogenetic approach

Salvia divinorum Epl. & Játiva-M. (Lamiaceae) is a potent hallucinogenic plant that is classified within Salvia subgenus Calosphace, section Dusenostachys, and hypothesized to be an interspecific hybrid. It is of ethnobotanical significance due to its employment in traditional healing ceremonies by the Mazatecs of Oaxaca, Mexico, and due to its unique pharmacology-a highly selective, non-nitrogenous, κ-opioid receptor agonist. In order to test its phylogenetic position and putative hybridity, we sequenced multiple DNA regions (ITS, trnL-trnF, and psbA-trnH) of 52 species-representing the major lineages of subgenus Calosphace-and six accessions of S. divinorum. Our molecular phylogenetic results suggest that S. divinorum should not be classified within Dusenostachys and that it is not a hybrid. Additionally, we determine that the closest known relative of this psychoactive Mexican sage is S. venulosa, a rare endemic of Colombia.

Angiosperm phylogeny: 17 genes, 640 taxa

PREMISE OF THE STUDY

Recent analyses employing up to five genes have provided numerous insights into angiosperm phylogeny, but many relationships have remained unresolved or poorly supported. In the hope of improving our understanding of angiosperm phylogeny, we expanded sampling of taxa and genes beyond previous analyses.

METHODS

We conducted two primary analyses based on 640 species representing 330 families. The first included 25260 aligned base pairs (bp) from 17 genes (representing all three plant genomes, i.e., nucleus, plastid, and mitochondrion). The second included 19846 aligned bp from 13 genes (representing only the nucleus and plastid).

KEY RESULTS

Many important questions of deep-level relationships in the nonmonocot angiosperms have now been resolved with strong support. Amborellaceae, Nymphaeales, and Austrobaileyales are successive sisters to the remaining angiosperms (Mesangiospermae), which are resolved into Chloranthales + Magnoliidae as sister to Monocotyledoneae + [Ceratophyllaceae + Eudicotyledoneae]. Eudicotyledoneae contains a basal grade subtending Gunneridae. Within Gunneridae, Gunnerales are sister to the remainder (Pentapetalae), which comprises (1) Superrosidae, consisting of Rosidae (including Vitaceae) and Saxifragales; and (2) Superasteridae, comprising Berberidopsidales, Santalales, Caryophyllales, Asteridae, and, based on this study, Dilleniaceae (although other recent analyses disagree with this placement). Within the major subclades of Pentapetalae, most deep-level relationships are resolved with strong support.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analyses confirm that with large amounts of sequence data, most deep-level relationships within the angiosperms can be resolved. We anticipate that this well-resolved angiosperm tree will be of broad utility for many areas of biology, including physiology, ecology, paleobiology, and genomics.

Proteolytic cleavage of carboxypeptidase N markedly increases its antifibrinolytic activity

BACKGROUND

Carboxypeptidase N (CPN) is a constitutively active basic carboxypeptidase sharing specificity with activated thrombin-activable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFIa). Generally, CPN is regarded as being non-antifibrinolytic. However, this assumption has not been thoroughly investigated, particularly with respect to long-term antifibrinolysis. In addition, a recent report has shown that plasmin cleavage increases the catalytic activity of CPN. Therefore, we investigated the antifibrinolytic properties of CPN and plasmin-cleaved CPN (CPNc).

METHODS

CPN was incubated with plasmin for various periods of time and the prolongation of clot lysis at various concentrations of CPN/CPNc mixture was investigated in TAFI-depleted plasma. CPN cleavage was analyzed by electrophoresis and catalytic activity was determined by monitoring cleavage of the small substrate, FA-Ala-Lys.

RESULTS

CPN exhibited antifibrinolytic properties in plasma clot lysis assays when present at supraphysiological concentrations. Depletion of CPN from plasma decreased the lysis time of clots formed from minimally diluted plasma at low tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) concentrations. Plasmin cleavage of CPN markedly increased the antifibrinolytic properties. CPN and CPNc prolonged lysis in a non-saturable, dose-dependent, and t-PA-dependent manner. At sufficient concentration, CPN and CPNc prolonged lysis at least forty-fivefold. CPNc was 700% more antifibrinolytic than CPN but only 7% more active toward FA-Ala-Lys. The active site inhibitor GEMSA eliminated the antifibrinolytic effects of CPN and CPNc. Antifibrinolytic activity correlated with cleavage of active and/or regulatory subunits, presumably generating heterodimeric CPNc.

CONCLUSIONS

Limited proteolysis of CPN by plasmin generates an enzyme with greatly increased antifibrinolytic properties. We speculate that (patho)physiological proteolysis of CPN may generate a long-term antifibrinolytic enzyme.

Staminal evolution in the genus Salvia (Lamiaceae): molecular phylogenetic evidence for multiple origins of the staminal lever

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The genus Salvia has traditionally included any member of the tribe Mentheae (Lamiaceae) with only two stamens and with each stamen expressing an elongate connective. The recent demonstration of the non-monophyly of the genus presents interesting implications for staminal evolution in the tribe Mentheae. In the context of a molecular phylogeny, the staminal morphology of the various lineages of Salvia and related genera is characterized and an evolutionary interpretation of staminal variation within the tribe Mentheae is presented.

METHODS

Two molecular analyses are presented in order to investigate phylogenetic relationships in the tribe Mentheae and the genus Salvia. The first presents a tribal survey of the Mentheae and the second concentrates on Salvia and related genera. Schematic sketches are presented for the staminal morphology of each major lineage of Salvia and related genera.

KEY RESULTS

These analyses suggest an independent origin of the staminal elongate connective on at least three different occasions within the tribe Mentheae, each time with a distinct morphology. Each independent origin of the lever mechanism shows a similar progression of staminal change from slight elongation of the connective tissue separating two fertile thecae to abortion of the posterior thecae and fusion of adjacent posterior thecae. A monophyletic lineage within the Mentheae is characterized consisting of the genera Lepechinia, Melissa, Salvia, Dorystaechas, Meriandra, Zhumeria, Perovskia and Rosmarinus.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on these results the following are characterized: (1) the independent origin of the staminal lever mechanism on at least three different occasions in Salvia, (2) that Salvia is clearly polyphyletic, with five other genera intercalated within it, and (3) staminal evolution has proceeded in different ways in each of the three lineages of Salvia but has resulted in remarkably similar staminal morphologies.

Complete inhibition of fibrinolysis by sustained carboxypeptidase B activity: the role and requirement of plasmin inhibitors

BACKGROUND

The antifibrinolytic effect of activated thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFIa) and carboxypeptidase B (CPB) displays threshold behavior. When CPB was used to simulate conditions mimicking continuous TAFIa activity, it affected the lysis of plasma clots differently to clots formed from a minimal fibrinolytic system comprising fibrinogen, plasminogen and alpha(2)-antiplasmin. Whereas CPB saturably prolonged clot lysis in the purified system, the effect of CPB did not appear saturable in plasma clots.

METHODS

To rationalize this difference, we investigated the effects of alpha(2)-antiplasmin, alpha(2)-macroglobulin, antithrombin and aprotinin on CPB-mediated antifibrinolysis.

RESULTS

CPB alone prolonged fibrinolysis in a saturable manner and the efficacy of CPB increased with decreasing tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) concentration. The inhibitors by themselves did not halt fibrinolysis and the potency of each inhibitor in the absence of CPB mirrored their solution-phase plasmin inhibitory potentials: alpha(2)-antiplasmin approximately equal to aprotinin >> alpha(2)-macroglobulin >> antithrombin. With both CPB and inhibitor present, a synergistic effect was observed. The antifibrinolytic sensitivity to CPB was related to the plasmin inhibitory potential of the inhibitor.

CONCLUSIONS

Fibrinolysis could be completely inhibited by alpha(2)-antiplasmin, alpha(2)-macroglobulin and antithrombin, but not aprotinin, in the presence of CPB, and occurred only when the irreversible inhibitor or pool of inhibitors were in excess of plasminogen. Western blot analysis indicated that the CPB-mediated shutdown of fibrinolysis was a result of plasminogen consumption prior to clot lysis. The CPB concentration required for fibrinolytic shutdown was dependent on t-PA concentration and the inhibitory potential of the irreversible inhibitor pool.

Salvia (Lamiaceae) is not monophyletic: implications for the systematics, radiation, and ecological specializations of Salvia and tribe Mentheae

Salvia, with over 900 species from both the Old and New World, is the largest genus in the Lamiaceae. Unlike most members of the subfamily Nepetoideae to which it belongs, only two stamens are expressed in Salvia. Although the structure of these stamens is remarkably variable across the genus, generally each stamen has an elongate connective and divergent anther thecae, which form a lever mechanism important in pollination. In a preliminary investigation of infrageneric relationships within Salvia, the monophyly of the genus and its relationship to other members of the tribe Mentheae were investigated using the chloroplast DNA regions rbcL and trnL-F. Significant conclusions drawn from the data include: Salvia is not monophyletic, Rosmarinus and Perovskia together are sister to an Old World clade of Salvia, the section Audibertia is sister to subgenus Calosphace or the monotypic Asian genus Dorystaechas, and the New World members of section Heterosphace are sister to section Salviastrum. Owing to the non-monophyly of Salvia, relationships at the next clearly monophyletic level, tribe Mentheae, were investigated.

Efficacy of single-dose intravenous dolasetron versus ondansetron in the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting

BACKGROUND

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a significant problem in surgical patients. The 5-hydroxytryptamine3-receptor antagonists ondansetron, dolasetron, and granisetron are being used to prevent PONV and avoid the adverse events associated with traditional antiemetics such as antihistaminic agents, anticholinergic agents, and dopamine antagonists.

OBJECTIVE

Because practitioners have taken widely differing approaches to the selection and dosing of agents in this class, this retrospective study assessed the relative efficacy of i.v. dolasetron and ondansetron in preventing PONV when used according to their approved labeling.

METHODS

The medical charts of patients who underwent total abdominal hysterectomy or laparoscopic cholecystectomy and received either dolasetron 12.5 mg or ondansetron 4 mg were reviewed. Efficacy was assessed based on the number of episodes of PONV and time to the occurrence of PONV in the 24 hours after surgery.

RESULTS

Of 75 medical records reviewed, 59 met the criteria for inclusion in the efficacy analysis. There were no statistically significant between-group differences in demographic or baseline clinical characteristics. The majority of patients were obese (body mass index > or = 27 kg/m2), had no history of either PONV or motion sickness, and underwent total abdominal hysterectomy. PONV occurred in 11 of 25 (44%) patients receiving dolasetron and 18 of 34 (53%) patients receiving ondansetron. Four patients receiving dolasetron experienced PONV in the first 2 hours after surgery, compared with 7 patients receiving ondansetron.

CONCLUSION

There were no significant differences in efficacy between single doses of i.v. dolasetron 12.5 mg and i.v. ondansetron 4 mg in the prevention of PONV.

A kinetic analysis of the tissue plasminogen activator and DSPAalpha1 cofactor activities of untreated and TAFIa-treated soluble fibrin degradation products of varying size

The kinetics of tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and DSPAalpha1-catalyzed plasminogen activation using untreated and TAFIa-treated fibrin degradation products (FDPs), ranging in weight average molecular weight (M(w)) from 0.48 x 10(6) to 4.94 x 10(6) g/mol, were modeled according to the steady-state template model. The FDPs served as effective cofactors for both activators. The intrinsic catalytic efficiencies of both t-PA (17.4 x 10(5) m(-1) s(-1)) and DSPAalpha1 (6.0 x 10(5) m(-1) s(-1)) were independent of FDP M(w). The intrinsic catalytic efficiency of t-PA was 12-fold higher than that measured under identical conditions with intact fibrin as the cofactor. At sub-saturating levels of cofactor and substrate, rates were strongly dependent on FDP M(w) with DSPAalpha1 but not t-PA. Loss of activity with decreasing FDP M(w) correlated with loss of finger-dependent binding of the activators to the FDPs. TAFIa treatment of the FDPs resulted in 90- and 215-fold decreases in the catalytic efficiencies of t-PA (0.20 x 10(5) m(-)(1) s(-1)) and DSPAalpha1 (0.028 x 10(5) m(-1) s(-1)), yielding cofactors that were still 30- and 50-fold better than fibrinogen with t-PA and DSPAalpha1, respectively. Our results show that for both activators the products released during fibrinolysis are very effective cofactors for plasminogen activation, and both t-PA and DSPAalpha1 cofactor activity are strongly down-regulated by TAFIa.

NSAID impairment of orthodontic tooth movement

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impairment of orthodontic tooth movement caused by nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

DATA SOURCES

Biomedical literature accessed through MEDLINE (1966-January 2000), EMBASE (1980-January 2000), and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970-January 2000). Key search terms included NSAIDs, orthodontics, and tooth movement.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Orthodontic dentistry applies mechanical force to generate tooth movement. Since prostaglandins are mediators of tooth movement, it is reasonable to expect that prostaglandin inhibitors, such as NSAIDs, inhibit or delay tooth movement. An evaluation of studies measuring the extent of NSAID impairment on tooth movement was undertaken.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from animal studies have shown that NSAIDs can impair the tooth movement process. Until long-term human data are obtained, acetaminophen remains an appropriate alternative to NSAIDs for treating orthodontic-associated pain.

Parasites of domestic and wild animals in South Africa. XXXVIII. Ixodid ticks collected from 23 wild carnivore species

Ixodid ticks were collected from 104 wild carnivores belonging to 23 species in various nature reserves and on several farms in all nine provinces of South Africa. Seven feral cats in a nature reserve were also examined. Twenty-four tick species belonging to seven genera were recovered and identified. Amongst these ticks we consider the adults of Haemaphysalis leachi, Haemaphysalis spinulosa, Haemaphysalis zumpti, Ixodes rubicundus, Rhipicentor nuttalli, Rhipicephalus simus and Rhipicephalus turanicus to be true parasites of wild carnivores. Although numerous adult Rhipicephalus appendiculatus and Rhipicephalus zambeziensis were collected from some lions these were either sick or old animals. The immature stages of seven species regularly utilized wild carnivores as hosts on an opportunistic basis.

Proteolytic processing of human coagulation factor IX by plasmin

Previous studies have shown that thrombin generation in vivo caused a 92% decrease in factor IX (F.IX) activity and the appearance of a cleavage product after immunoblotting that comigrated with activated F.IX (F.IXa). Under these conditions, the fibrinolytic system was clearly activated, suggesting plasmin may have altered F.IX. Thus, the effect(s) of plasmin on human F.IX was determined in vitro. Plasmin (50 nM) decreased the 1-stage clotting activity of F.IX (4 microM) by 80% and the activity of F.IXa (4 microM) by 50% after 30 minutes at 37 degrees C. Plasmin hydrolysis of F.IX yields products of 45, 30, 20, and 14 kd on reducing sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and 2 products of 52 and 14 kd under nonreducing conditions. Plasmin-treated F.IX did not bind the active site probe, p-aminobenzamidine, or form an SDS-stable complex with antithrombin. It only marginally activated human factor X in the presence of phospholipid and activated factor VIII. Although dansyl-Glu-Gly-Arg-chloromethyl ketone inactivated-F. IXa inhibited the clotting activity of F.IXa, plasmin-treated F.IX did not. Plasmin cleaves F.IX after Lys43, Arg145, Arg180, Lys316, and Arg318, but F.IXa is not appreciably generated despite cleavage at the 2 normal activation sites (Arg145 and Arg180). Tissue plasminogen activator-catalyzed lysis of fibrin formed in human plasma results in generation of the 45- and 30-kd fragments of F.IX and decreased F.IX clotting activity. Collectively, the results suggest that plasmin is able to down-regulate coagulation by inactivating F.IX.

The molecular weights, mass distribution, chain composition, and structure of soluble fibrin degradation products released from a fibrin clot perfused with plasmin

We used a perfused clot system to study the degradation of cross-linked fibrin. Multiangle laser light scattering showed that plasmin-mediated cleavage caused the release of noncovalently associated fibrin degradation products (FDPs) with a weight-averaged molar mass (Mw) of approximately 6 x 10(6) g/mol. The Mw of FDPs is dependent on ionic strength, and the Mw observed at 0.15 M NaCl resulted from the self-association of FDPs having Mw of approximately 3.8 x 10(6) g/mol. Complete solubilization required the cleavage of approximately 25% of fragment D/fragment E connections, with 48% alpha-, 62% beta-, and 42% gamma-chains cleaved. These results showed that D-E cleavage cannot be explained by a random mechanism, implying cooperativity. Gel filtration and multiangle laser light scattering showed that FDPs range from 2.5 x 10(5) to 1 x 10(7) g/mol. In addition to fragment E, FDPs are composed of fragments ranging from 2 x 10(5) Da (D-dimer, or DD) to at least 2.3 x 10(6) Da (DX8D). FDP mass distribution is consistent with a model whereby FDPs bind to fibrin with affinities proportional to fragment mass. Root mean square radius analysis showed that small FDPs approximate rigid rods, but this relationship breaks down as FDPs size increases, suggesting that large FDPs possess significant flexibility.

A study of the mechanism of inhibition of fibrinolysis by activated thrombin-activable fibrinolysis inhibitor

TAFI (thrombin-activable fibrinolysis inhibitor) is a recently described plasma zymogen that, when exposed to the thrombin-thrombomodulin complex, is converted by proteolysis at Arg92 to a basic carboxypeptidase that inhibits fibrinolysis (TAFIa). The studies described here were undertaken to elucidate the molecular basis for the inhibition of fibrinolysis. When TAFIa is included in a clot undergoing fibrinolysis induced by tissue plasminogen activator and plasminogen, the time to achieve lysis is prolonged, and free arginine and lysine are released over time. In addition, TAFIa prevents a 2.5-fold increase in the rate constant for plasminogen activation which occurs when fibrin is modified by plasmin in the early course of fibrin degradation. The effect is specific for the Glu- form of plasminogen. TAFIa prevents or at least attenuates positive feedback expressed through Lys-plasminogen formation during the process of fibrinolysis initiated by tissue plasminogen activator and plasminogen. TAFIa also inhibits plasmin activity in a clot and prolongs fibrinolysis initiated with plasmin. We conclude that TAFIa suppresses fibrinolysis by removing COOH-terminal lysine and arginine residues from fibrin, thereby reducing its cofactor functions in both plasminogen activation and the positive feedback conversion of Glu-plasminogen to Lys-plasminogen. At relatively elevated concentrations, it also directly inhibits plasmin.

Effects of the neuraminidase inhibitor zanamavir on otologic manifestations of experimental human influenza

Middle ear pressure (MEP) abnormalities are frequently observed during influenza virus infection and may serve as surrogate markers for the risk of otitis media. MEP abnormalities were evaluated in adult volunteers who were inoculated with influenza A/Texas/36/91(H1N1) or B/Yamagata/88 virus and given the antiviral zanamivir (GG167) intranasally as prophylaxis or early treatment in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. In the influenza A prophylaxis studies, 15% of 61 zanamivir recipients versus 61% of 33 placebo recipients showed significant MEP abnormalities (P < .01). In the influenza A early treatment trial, 32% of 31 infected zanamivir recipients versus 73% of 26 infected placebo recipients developed MEP abnormalities (P < .01). In the influenza B prophylaxis trial, 16% of 25 zanamivir versus 44% of 9 placebo recipients showed abnormalities (P = .09). These findings indicate that the neuraminidase inhibitor zanamivir, which is effective in reducing experimental influenza illness, provides protection against the development of MEP abnormalities.

The solution phase interaction between apolipoprotein(a) and plasminogen inhibits the binding of plasminogen to a plasmin-modified fibrinogen surface

In the present study, we assessed the binding of recombinant forms of apolipoprotein(a) [r-apo(a)] to plasminogen. Apo(a)-plasminogen interactions were demonstrated to be lysine-dependent, as they were abolished by the addition of epsilon-aminocaproic acid. Binding of r-apo(a) and plasma-derived Lp(a) to Glu-plasminogen was assessed in solution using a mutant form of recombinant plasminogen [Plg(S741C)] labeled at the active site with 5'-(iodoacetamido)fluorescein. High-affinity binding of apo(a) to plasminogen was observed with the 17-kringle r-apo(a) (Kd = 20.1 +/- 3.3 nM) as well as with plasma-derived Lp(a) (Kd = 5.58 +/- 0.08 nM). Binding studies using various truncated and mutant forms of r-apo(a) demonstrated that sequences within apo(a) kringle IV types 2-9 and the strong lysine binding site (LBS) in apo(a) kringle IV type 10 are not required for high-affinity binding to plasminogen. In all cases, the binding stoichiometry for the apo(a)-plasminogen interaction was determined to be 1:1. Binding data obtained using a 17-kringle r-apo(a) derivative lacking the protease-like domain (17KDeltaP; Kd = 3158 +/- 138 nM) indicate that sequences within the protease-like domain of apo(a) mediate its interaction with LBS in plasminogen. We determined that r-apo(a) and plasminogen bind to distinct sites on plasmin-modified fibrinogen with the concentration of plasminogen binding sites exceeding the concentration of r-apo(a) sites by a factor of 10. Furthermore, r-apo(a) is capable of inhibiting the binding of plasminogen to plasmin-modified fibrinogen surfaces, an effect which we show is attributable to the formation of a solution phase apo(a)/plasminogen complex which exhibits a greatly reduced affinity for plasminogen binding sites on plasmin-modified fibrinogen. The results of this study provide new insights into the mechanism by which apo(a) and Lp(a) may inhibit fibrinolysis, thus contributing to the atherothrombotic risk associated with this lipoprotein.

Rhipicephalus interventus sp. nov. (Acari: Ixodidae), a new tick species closely related to Rhipicephalus tricuspis Dönitz, 1906 and Rhipicephalus Iunulatus Neumann, 1907, from east and central Africa

Descriptions of the adults of this new species are given, together with information on its hosts and distribution. Previously it was referred to briefly by Walker, Keirans, pegram & Clifford (1988), who noted that in many respects it is intermediate in appearance between R. tricuspis and R. Iunulatus.

Enzymatic synthesis of aminocyclitol moieties of aminoglycoside antibiotics from inositol by Streptomyces spp.: detection of glutamine-aminocyclitol aminotransferase and diaminocyclitol aminotransferase activities in a spectinomycin producer

Extracts of stationary-phase mycelia of the spectinomycin producer Streptomyces flavopersicus ATCC 19756 catalyzed inositol dehydrogenase, L-glutamine:inosose aminotransferase, 2-epi-streptamine:inosose aminotransferase, streptamine:inosose aminotransferase, N3-methyl-2-deoxystreptamine:inosose aminotransferase, and aminodeoxy-scyllo-inositol:inosose aminotransferase reactions, as detected with a new rapid assay procedure. These results suggest that one or both amino groups of the N1,N3-dimethyl-2-epi-streptamine moiety of spectinomycin are derived by transamination from the alpha-amino group of L-glutamine. An enzymatic procedure for distinguishing among N1- and N3-monomethyl diaminocyclitol derivatives and their diaminocyclitol biosynthetic precursors is described. A scheme showing key roles of glutamine-aminocyclitol aminotransferases in biosynthesis of major aminoglycoside antibiotics is presented.

Quality assurance of ultrasound imaging instruments by monitoring the monitor

Ultrasound quality assurance (QA) is a means of assuring the constant performance of an ultrasound instrument. A novel 'ultrasound image analyser' has been developed to allow objective, accurate and repeatable measurement of the image displayed on the ultrasound screen, i.e. as seen by the operator. The analyser uses a television camera/framestore combination to digitize and analyse this image. A QA scheme is described along with the procedures necessary to obtain a repeatable measurement of the image so that comparisons with earlier good images can be made. These include repositioning the camera and resetting the video display characteristics. The advantages of using the analyser over other methods are discussed. It is concluded that the analyser has distinct advantages over subjective image assessment methods and will be a valuable addition to current ultrasound QA programmes.

GM-1 ganglioside administration combined with physical therapy restores ambulation in humans with chronic spinal cord injury

In a randomized double-blind cross-over study, humans with chronic spinal cord injury received ganglioside GM-1 or placebo for 2 months. GM-1, administered intravenously at a dose of 100 mg, 6 days a week, resulted in a statistically significant improvement of motor scores (P < 0.05), whether administered before or after 2 months of placebo. There was no placebo effect on motor scores. Subjects who received GM-1 before placebo maintained their improvement during the placebo phase. Subjects who received GM-1 ambulated with a reciprocal gait, using orthotics, for longer distances and at a faster rate whether the drug was administered before or after placebo. These results constitute the first finding that any chemical substance improves locomotion in human chronic spinal cord injury.

Rhipicephalus exophthalmos sp. nov., a new tick species from southern Africa, and redescription of Rhipicephalus oculatus Neumann, 1901, with which it has hitherto been confused (Acari: Ixodida: Ixodidae)

Rhipicephalus exophthalmos sp. nov., a species which has in the past been confused with Rhipicephalus oculatus Neumann, 1901, is described and illustrated from laboratory-reared specimens. Preferred hosts for the adults of this tick are various domestic and wild ungulates and hares. It is widely distributed in Namibia and in the southeastern Cape Province, South Africa, with only scattered records from elsewhere. The adults of R. oculatus are redescribed and illustrated, and the immature stages are described and illustrated for the first time. All stages feed virtually exclusively on leporids. It is common in parts of the eastern and southern Cape Province, with few records as yet from other parts of South Africa and Namibia.

Rhipicephalus aquatilis sp. nov. (Acari: Ixodidae), a new tick species parasitic mainly on the sitatunga, Tragelaphus spekei, in east and central Africa

This tick, originally referred to as Rhipicephalus species III by Yeoman & Walker (1967), was first collected from a sitatunga, Tragelaphus spekei, and then occasionally from cattle, in Tanzania. Further collections, mostly from sitatunga, have since been seen from Uganda and Zambia. Descriptions of the adults of this species are given, together with information on their hosts and their distribution.

Improving practice through research: the case of heparin vs. saline for peripheral intermittent infusion devices

Peripheral intermittent infusion devices are commonly used to administer periodic doses of medications to adults and children. Research findings provide a strong base for changing practice to using saline instead of heparin to flush these devices in children over 28 days old and in adults. This research-based change in practice will enhance the quality of care that patients receive and decrease the costs of their care.

A review of the ixodid ticks (Acari, Ixodidae) occurring in southern Africa

Eighty-three species of ixodid ticks, as well as several entities that have yet to be described, occur in the Republic of South Africa plus the 4 independent states lying within its borders (Bophuthatswana, Venda, Transkei and Ciskei) and in Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland. They belong to the following genera: Amblyomma (8 spp.); Aponomma (3 spp.); Boophilus (2 spp.); Cosmiomma (1 sp.); Dermacentor (1 sp.); Haemaphysalis (10 spp.); Hyalomma (2 spp., one of them with 2 subspp.); Ixodes (25 spp.); Margaropus (1 sp.); Rhipicentor (2 spp.), and Rhipicephalus (28 spp). The history of tick research in this region is reviewed briefly and advances made by the major contributors to our knowledge are highlighted. Short comments on each genus are given. These are followed by information on every species known to occur in the region, presented under the following headings: Species diagnosis, under which references to relevant descriptions are listed and, where appropriate, notes on commonly used synonyms, related species and identification problems are included; hosts, indicating whenever possible the preferences of both the adults and the immature stages, as well as differentiating between common and incidental hosts, and distribution in terms of political (not ecological) divisions.

Possible evolutionary relationships between streptomycin and bluensomycin biosynthetic pathways: detection of novel inositol kinase and O-carbamoyltransferase activities

Bluensomycin (glebomycin) is an aminocyclitol antibiotic that differs structurally from dihydrostreptomycin in having bluensidine (1D-1-O-carbamoyl-3-guanidinodeoxy-scyllo-inositol) rather than streptidine (1,3-diguanidino-1,3-dideoxy-scyllo-inositol) as its aminocyclitol moiety. Extracts of the bluensomycin producer Streptomyces hygroscopicus form glebosus ATCC 14607 (S. glebosus) were found to have aminodeoxy-scyllo-inositol kinase activity but to lack 1D-1-guanidino-3-amino-1,3-dideoxy-scyllo-inositol kinase activity, showing for the first time that these two reactions in streptomycin producers must be catalyzed by different enzymes. S. glebosus extracts therefore possess the same five enzymes required for synthesis of guanidinodeoxy-scyllo-inositol from myo-inositol that are found in streptomycin producers but lack the next three of the four enzymes found in streptomycin producers that are required to synthesize the second guanidino group of streptidine-P. In place of a second guanidino group, S. glebosus extracts were found to catalyze a Mg2(+)-dependent carbamoylation of guanidinodeoxy-scyllo-inositol to form bluensidine, followed by a phosphorylation to form bluensidine-P. The novel carbamoyl-P:guanidinodeoxy-scyllo-inositol O-carbamoyltransferase and ATP:bluensidine phosphotransferase activities were not detected in streptomycin producers or in S. glebosus during its early rapid growth phase. Free bluensidine appears to be a normal intermediate in bluensomycin biosynthesis, in contrast to the case of streptomycin biosynthesis; in the latter, although exogenous streptidine can enter the pathway via streptidine-P, free streptidine is not an intermediate in the endogenous biosynthetic pathway. Comparison of the streptomycin and bluensomycin biosynthetic pathways provides a unique opportunity to evaluate those proposed mechanisms for the evolutionary acquisition of new biosynthetic capabilities that involve gene duplication and subsequent mutational changes in one member of the pair. In this model, there are at least five pairs of enzymes catalyzing analogous reactions that can be analyzed for homology at both the protein and DNA levels, including two putative pairs of inositol kinases detected in this study.

Randomized, double-blind comparison of the efficacies, costs, and vaginal flora alterations with single-dose ceftriaxone and multidose cefazolin prophylaxis in vaginal hysterectomy

A comparison of efficacies, costs, and effects on vaginal microflora of one preoperative and three postoperative 1-g doses of cefazolin versus those of one preoperative 1-g dose of ceftriaxone was done with 65 and 73 women, respectively, undergoing elective vaginal hysterectomy. Patient infection rates were not statistically different between the cefazolin group (six events in 6 of 73 patients [8.2%]) and the ceftriaxone group (11 events in 9 of 65 patients [13.8%]). Side effects, including diarrhea, were minimal and similar between the two groups. Significant shifts in the cervicovaginal microflora of the patients occurred postoperatively, with a marked increase in enterococci and a drop in nonenterococcal streptococci. No shifts among aerobic, facultative gram-negative rods and staphylococci were observed. Among the anaerobes, a significant decrease in the number of patients harboring nonsporulating, gram-positive rods and a less striking concomitant increase in Bacteriodes species and members of the family Peptococcaceae were noted. No qualitative differences were noted between the two groups that received prophylactic therapy. Aside from enterococci, cefazolin or ceftriaxone resistance among vaginal isolates (greater than or equal to 10(3)/ml) was minimal. Selection of resistant isolates was not different between the treatment groups. We could not detect a difference between a single 1-g dose of ceftriaxone and multidose cefazolin for infection prophylaxis in patients undergoing a vaginal hysterectomy. However, the total acquisition, preparation, and administration costs were greater for the ceftriaxone regimen than they were for the cefazolin regimen. Cefazolin should therefore remain the drug of choice for infection prophylaxis in uncomplicated vaginal hysterectomies.

Geographical information systems for studying the epidemiology of cattle diseases caused by Theileria parva

Data on selected variables which influence the epidemiology of cattle diseases caused by Theileria parva were assembled and entered in a computerised geographical information system. Variables studied included the distributions of major hosts (cattle and buffalo), the vector ticks (Rhipicephalus appendiculatus and related species) and the reported presence of East Coast fever, corridor disease and January disease. In addition, the distribution of climatic suitability for R appendiculatus was assessed using the model CLIMEX run on an interpolated climate database developed for Africa. Distribution maps of each variable were produced. The potential value of geographical information systems in studies of disease epidemiology and control is discussed, with examples of how sensitivity may be enhanced by the inclusion of additional variables. In addition, subject areas in which poor data quality and inadequate data standardisation may limit the use of these systems are identified and discussed.

Two new species of ticks from southern Africa whose adults parasitize the feet of ungulates: Rhipicephalus lounsburyi n. sp. and Rhipicephalus neumanni n. sp. (Ixodoidea, Ixodidae)

Theiler & Robinson (1953) described, as Rhipicephalus follis Dönitz, 1910, a tick species originating from Dordrecht, Eastern Cape Province. A comparison of this tick with the syntypes of R. follis has now shown, though, that these 2 entities are different and it is therefore redescribed below as Rhipicephalus lounsburyi n. sp. Its adults parasitize sheep and various wild ungulates, attaching primarily on their feet. The hosts of the immature stages are still unknown. It has now been recorded from several places in the Eastern Cape; once in Natal, at Impendle, and in the Western Cape near Swellendam and between Clanwilliam and Graafwater. A second species, which has in the past been confused with the dassie parasite, Rhipicephalus distinctus Bedford, 1932, is described as Rhipicephalus neumanni n. sp. Its adults also attach on the feet of sheep and goats. The hosts of the immature stages are unknown. It has been widely recorded in the Bethanien and Keetmanshoop Districts of Namibia and, in South Africa, from scattered localities in the Karoo.

Reactions catalyzed by purified L-glutamine: keto-scyllo-inositol aminotransferase, an enzyme required for biosynthesis of aminocyclitol antibiotics

Dialyzed extracts of the gentamicin producer Micromonospora purpurea catalyze reactions which represent transaminations proposed for 2-deoxystreptamine biosynthesis. To determine whether these transaminations were catalyzed by a single aminotransferase or by multiple enzymes, we purified and characterized an L-glutamine:keto-scyllo-inositol aminotransferase from M. purpurea. This enzyme was purified 130- to 150-fold from late-log-phase mycelia of both wild-type M. purpurea and a 2-deoxystreptamine-less idiotroph. The cofactor pyridoxal phosphate was found to be tightly bound to the enzyme, and spectral analysis demonstrated its participation in the transamination reactions of this enzyme. The major physiological amino donor for the enzyme appears to be L-glutamine; the keto acid product derived from glutamine was characterized as 2-ketoglutaramate, indicating that the alpha amino group of glutamine participates in the transamination. We found that crude extracts contained omega-amidase activity, which may render transaminations with glutamine irreversible in vivo. The substrate specificity of the aminotransferase was shown to be restricted to deoxycyclitols, monoaminocyclitols, and diaminocyclitols, glutamine, and 2-ketoglutaramate, which contrasts with the broader substrate specificity of mammalian glutamine aminotransferase. The appearance of the enzyme in late-log phase, coupled with its narrow substrate specificity, indicates that it participates predominantly in 2-deoxystreptamine biosynthesis rather than in general metabolism. The enzyme catalyzes reactions which represent both transamination steps of 2-deoxystreptamine biosynthesis. Although copurification of two aminotransferases cannot be ruled out, our data are consistent with the participation of a single aminotransferase in the formation of both amino groups of 2-deoxystreptamine during biosynthesis by M. purpurea. We propose that this aminotransferase participates in a key initial step in the biosynthesis of most aminocyclitol antibiotics.

Utilization of the synthetic phosphagen cyclocreatine phosphate by a simple brain model during stimulation by neuroexcitatory amino acids

The ability of 1-carboxymethyl-2-imino-3-phosphonoimidazolidine (cyclocreatine-P), accumulated by a simple brain model, to function as a supplemental synthetic phosphagen and respond to the decreases in cytosolic ATP/free ADP ratios that occur during prolonged stimulation by various excitatory amino acids was investigated. Suspensions of chopped whole brain from 11- to 14-day-old chick embryos were incubated with 30 mM cyclocreatine for 90 min, resulting in accumulation of 100 mumol/g dry weight of cyclocreatine-P, and then incubated for up to 1 h with a series of excitatory amino acids of widely differing potencies. Under these conditions net utilization of cyclocreatine-P was detected in response to stimulation by the following neuroexcitatory compounds at the indicated threshold concentrations: kainate (20 microM), N-methyl-DL-aspartate (20 microM), L-homocysteate (20 microM), L-glutamate (200 microM), D-glutamate (200 microM), L-aspartate (2 mM), DL-2-amino-3-phosphonopropionate (2 mM), and DL-2-amino-4-phosphonobutyrate (2 mM). Significant increases in water content of chick embryo brain minces accompanied stimulation by excitatory amino acids. It is suggested that changes in water content or cyclocreatine-P levels in this sensitive brain model might be utilized in automatable screening procedures for detecting novel antagonists and/or new agonists of excitatory amino acids.

The tick vectors of Cowdria ruminantium (Ixodoidea, Ixodidae, genus Amblyomma) and their distribution

Twelve species of Amblyomma are presently known to be capable of transmitting Cowdria ruminantium. Of these A. variegatum is the most important and widely distributed vector in Africa. It has also extended its range considerably outside this continent, eastward to the Yemen Arab Republic and to the islands of Madagascar, Réunion and Mauritius, and westward to the Cape Verde islands and to some of the West Indian islands. A. hebraeum is probably the only field vector in most parts of southern Africa. A 3rd species, A. lepidum, is known to have been involved in field outbreaks of heartwater in the Sudan. Two other species are also currently regarded as field vectors of Cowdria: A. astrion on the islands of São Tomé and Principe, and A. pomposum in Angola. Another 5 African species (A. cohaerens, A. gemma, A. tholloni, A. sparsum and A. marmoreum) have proved to be capable of transmitting heartwater in the laboratory, as have 2 American species (A. maculatum and A. cajennense), but none of these ticks have been implicated in field outbreaks of the disease.

Enhanced ability of skeletal muscle containing cyclocreatine phosphate to sustain ATP levels during ischemia following beta-adrenergic stimulation

Breast muscle of young chicks fed chow diets containing the creatine analog 1-carboxymethyl-2-iminoimidazolidine (cyclocreatine) accumulated up to 40 mumol/g wet weight of the synthetic phosphagen 1-carboxymethyl-2-imino-3-phosphonoimidazolidine (cyclocreatine-P2-). ATP levels were sustained at high values substantially longer in breast muscle of cyclocreatine-fed chicks, compared to control-fed chicks, during total ischemia initiated 2 h after injection of both groups with the beta-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol (5 mg/kg subcutaneous). For example, in chicks fed 0.5% cyclocreatine for 10-19 days ATP levels in isoproterenol-stimulated breast muscles after 1 h of ischemia at 37 degrees C were 6.1 mumol/g, compared to 1.9 mumol/g for the control-fed group, and after 2 h of ischemia were 3.5 mumol/g compared to 0.6 mumol/g for controls. Creatine-P reserves in isoproterenol-stimulated breast muscles of all dietary groups were essentially exhausted within the first hour of ischemia. In contrast, breast muscle of chicks fed either 1 or 0.5% cyclocreatine still contained 28 and 19 mumol/g of cyclocreatine-P, respectively, after 1 h of ischemia; after 2 h of ischemia, the respective cyclocreatine-P values were 20 and 13 mumol/g. Isoproterenol-stimulated chick breast muscle provides the first skeletal muscle model system for studying the molecular mechanisms by which dietary cyclocreatine helps sustain ATP levels during ischemia. Although adaptive factors are also involved, it is suggested that a significant portion of the ATP-sustaining activity of dietary cyclocreatine in ischemic breast muscle can be attributed to the unique thermodynamic properties of the accumulated cyclocreatine-P. These properties enable cyclocreatine-P to continue to thermodynamically buffer the adenylate system and transport high energy phosphate throughout the long muscle fibers at cytosolic pH values and phosphorylation potentials well below the range where the creatine-P system can function effectively. Synergism between glycolysis and this long-acting synthetic phosphagen might well help delay depletion of ATP levels in skeletal muscles during ischemia. Cyclocreatine feeding provides a unique experimental tool for quantitative evaluation of the proposed protective role of ATP against irreversible cellular damage in skeletal and cardiac muscles during ischemic episodes.

Hydraulic resistance exercise benefits cardiovascular fitness of spinal cord injured

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of hydraulic resistance exercise training on fitness in spinal cord injured patients. Ten subjects (five quadriplegics and five paraplegics; seven males and three females) participated in a 9-wk training program. Subjects trained 3 times/wk. The 9-wk program was divided into three, 3-wk periods, designated stages I, II, and III. A discontinuous arm crank protocol was used to assess VO2max before and after training. Assessment of the intensity of the hydraulic resistance exercise was made by continuous ECG monitoring during training. A 60 to 90% maximum observed heart rate was calculated for subjects. The spinal cord-injured subjects' VO2max increased 28.1%, and maximum exercise power output increased 36.7% as a result of the 9-wk training program. Both of these findings were statistically significant (P less than 0.01). The exercise intensity was within a 60 to 90% training zone during stages II and III but not during stage I training. The results of this study indicate that hydraulic resistance exercise training may produce increased cardiovascular fitness in spinal cord-injured subjects.

Higher homolog and N-ethyl analog of creatine as synthetic phosphagen precursors in brain, heart, and muscle, repressors of liver amidinotransferase, and substrates for creatine catabolic enzymes

Tissues of chicks fed 5% N-methyl-3-guanidinopropionate (N-amidino-N-methyl-beta-alanine) for 12 days accumulated the following amounts of free plus phosphorylated derivatives as mumol/g, wet weight: brain, 5.5; heart, 7.3; leg muscle, 21.0; and breast muscle, 24.4. Since total creatine levels remained nearly the same in brain, N-methyl-3-guanidinopropionate-P provided brain with a supplemental reservoir of high energy phosphate. Tissues of rats fed 2% N-ethylguanidinoacetate (N-amidino-N-ethylglycine) accumulated large amounts of N-ethylguanidinoacetate-P, which has thermodynamic properties similar to creatine-P and is the kinetically most reactive synthetic phosphagen yet described. N-Ethylguanidinoacetate derivatives replaced creatine derivatives mole-for-mole, and the fraction of synthetic to total phosphagen after 19 days was 60% in heart, 54% in slow oxidative muscle, 42% in fast glycolytic muscles, and 22% in brain. N-Ethylguanidinoacetate served as a false end product co-repressor of liver arginine:glycine amidinotransferase levels in both chicks and chick embryos; N-methyl-3-guanidinopropionate and N-propylguanidinoacetate were relatively inactive. Creatinine amidohydrolase reversibly cyclized both N-ethylguanidinoacetate and N-propylguanidinoacetate with even lower Km values than for creatine derivatives, but it did not react significantly with N-methyl-3-guanidinopropionate, 3-guanidinopropionate, or 1-carboxy-methyl-2-imino-imidazolidine (cyclocreatine). Creatine amidinohydrolase also hydrolyzed N-acetimidoylsarcosine, but was relatively unreactive toward N-ethylguanidinoacetate, N-methyl-3-guanidinopropionate, 3-guanidinopropionate, and cyclocreatine. Amidinohydrolase can therefore be used to remove interfering creatine in assays of tissues for coexisting N-ethylguanidinoacetate or N-methyl-3-guanidinopropionate. Assays are now available to follow changes during metabolic stresses of any combination or all of the following phosphagens accumulated by the same tissue: creatine-P, N-ethylguanidinoacetate-P, cyclocreatine-P, N-methyl-3-guanidinopropionate-P, and homocyclocreatine-P.

Laser-induced somatosensory evoked potentials: evidence of photosensitivity in peripheral nerves

Irradiation of the skin overlying the median nerve at the wrist in humans with a low power (1 mW; 632.5 nm) helium-neon laser produced a somatosensory evoked potential obtained at Erb's point. This evoked potential had a latency equal to that observed after electrical stimulation of the same nerve. Prolonged exposure to laser (20 min, 3.1 Hz) resulted in a large (10-90%) decrease in the amplitude of the electrical evoked potential. Since this laser produces no detectable thermal change, the results imply that photochemical reactions alter neuronal activity.

Temporary suppression of clonus in humans by brief photostimulation

In this double-blind study, 21 subjects with spastic paraparesis due to chronic spinal cord injury received irradiation to the skin overlying the radial, median and saphenous nerves with a helium-neon laser (632.5 nm, 1 mW, 20 Hz) or sham treatment. Subjects in the experimental group demonstrated complete clonus suppression after 40 s of irradiation, an effect identical to that observed previously after peripheral electrical nerve stimulation. Subjects who received placebo did not demonstrate this phenomenon. Because such laser irradiation produces no detectable thermal effect, the results indicate that photochemical reactions initiated by laser may trigger neural activity.