Timeliness of Early Childhood Vaccinations and Undervaccination Patterns in Montana

INTRODUCTION

Early childhood vaccination rates are lower in rural areas than those in urban areas of the U.S. This study's objective is to quantify vaccine timeliness and the prevalence of undervaccination patterns in Montana and to measure the associations between timeliness and series completion by age 24 months.

METHODS

Using records from January 2015 to November 2019 in Montana's centralized immunization information system, days undervaccinated were calculated for the combined 7-vaccine series. Undervaccination patterns indicative of certain barriers to vaccination, including parental vaccine hesitancy, were identified. Using multivariable log-linked binomial regression, the association between timing of vaccine delay and not completing the combined 7-vaccine series by age 24 months was assessed. Analyses were conducted in March 2020-August 2020.

RESULTS

Among 31,422 children, 38.0% received all vaccine doses on time; 24.3% received all doses, but some were received late; and 37.7% had not completed the combined 7-vaccine series. Approximately 18.7% had an undervaccination pattern suggestive of parental vaccine hesitancy, and 19.7% started all series but were missing doses needed for multidose series completion. Although falling behind on vaccinations at any age was associated with failing to complete the combined 7-vaccine series, being late at age 12-15 months had the strongest association (adjusted prevalence ratio=3.73, 95% CI=3.56, 3.91) compared with being on time at age 12-15 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Fewer than 2 in 5 Montana children were fully vaccinated on time for the combined 7-vaccine series. To increase vaccination rates, initiatives to increase vaccine confidence and remind parents to complete vaccine series are needed.

COVID-19 Incidence and Mortality Among American Indian/Alaska Native and White Persons - Montana, March 13-November 30, 2020

Geographic differences in infectious disease mortality rates have been observed among American Indian or Alaska Native (AI/AN) persons in the United States (1), and aggregate analyses of data from selected U.S. states indicate that COVID-19 incidence and mortality are higher among AI/AN persons than they are among White persons (2,3). State-level data could be used to identify disparities and guide local efforts to reduce COVID-19-associated incidence and mortality; however, such data are limited. Reports of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases and COVID-19-associated deaths reported to the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (MDPHHS) were analyzed to describe COVID-19 incidence, mortality, and case-fatality rates among AI/AN persons compared with those among White persons. During March-November 2020 in Montana, the estimated cumulative COVID-19 incidence among AI/AN persons (9,064 cases per 100,000) was 2.2 times that among White persons (4,033 cases per 100,000).* During the same period, the cumulative COVID-19 mortality rate among AI/AN persons (267 deaths per 100,000) was 3.8 times that among White persons (71 deaths per 100,000). The AI/AN COVID-19 case-fatality rate (29.4 deaths per 1,000 COVID-19 cases) was 1.7 times the rate in White persons (17.0 deaths per 1,000). State-level surveillance findings can help in developing state and tribal COVID-19 vaccine allocation strategies and assist in local implementation of culturally appropriate public health measures that might help reduce COVID-19 incidence and mortality in AI/AN communities.

Neutrophil apoptosis is delayed in an equine model of colitis: Implications for the development of systemic inflammatory response syndrome

BACKGROUND

Horses that develop colitis invariably exhibit signs of a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). A significant contributor to the development of SIRS in human subjects is delayed neutrophil apoptosis, but this has not been specifically studied in horses.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the occurrence of ex vivo neutrophil apoptosis and its contribution to the development of SIRS in an equine colitis model.

STUDY DESIGN

Experiment using a colitis model.

METHODS

Neutrophils were isolated before and after the induction of colitis using an oligofructose overdose model, placed into culture for 12 h or 24 h with or without lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at various concentrations, and assessed for the occurrence of apoptosis using Annexin V and propidium iodide staining with flow cytometric quantification. Levels of caspase-3, -8 and -9 activity were measured after 12 h of incubation in neutrophil lysates.

RESULTS

Ex vivo neutrophil apoptosis was significantly delayed in neutrophils isolated after the induction of colitis (12-h incubation: P = 0.004; 24-h incubation: P = 0.003) with concomitant reductions in caspase-3, -8 and -9 activity (caspase-3: P = 0.004; caspase-8: P = 0.02; caspase-9: P = 0.02). Neutrophils isolated after the induction of colitis were refractory to LPS-delayed apoptosis. Neutrophil apoptosis was delayed with increasing cell concentration in vitro.

MAIN LIMITATIONS

The main limitation of the study is the that the exact mechanism for delayed neutrophil apoptosis following the induction of colitis was not fully elucidated.

CONCLUSIONS

The data show that neutrophil apoptosis is delayed in horses following the induction of colitis as a result of interference with the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways, which may contribute to the development of equine SIRS. Concurrent development of neutrophilia may contribute to a prolonged neutrophil lifespan through a concentration-dependent delay in apoptosis.

A founder mutation in the TCIRG1 gene causes osteopetrosis in the Ashkenazi Jewish population

Osteopetrosis is a rare and heterogeneous genetic disorder characterized by dense bone mass that is a consequence of defective osteoclast function and/or development. Autosomal recessive osteopetrosis (ARO) is the most severe form and is often fatal within the first years of life; early hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) remains the only curative treatment for ARO. The majority of the ARO-causing mutations are located in the TCIRG1 gene. We report here the identification and characterization of an A to T transversion in the fourth base of the intron 2 donor splice site (c.117+4A→T) in TCIRG1, a mutation not previously seen in the Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) population. Analysis of a random sample of individuals of AJ descent revealed a carrier frequency of approximately 1 in 350. Genotyping of five loci adjacent to the c.117+4A→T-containing TCIRG1 allele revealed that the presence of this mutation in the AJ population is due to a single founder. The identification of this mutation will enable population carrier testing and will facilitate the identification and treatment of individuals homozygous for this mutation.

In vitro and in vivo effects of West Nile virus propagated in cells of different passage

Tissue cultures are used to propagate viruses for use in mosquito infection studies and to detect live virus in field-collected specimens. Microscopic evaluation of cytopathic effects is used to visualize virus presence. In this study, both low-passage (LP; n = 35) and high-passage (HP; n = 218) lines of African green monkey kidney (Vero) cells were infected with West Nile virus, and virus growth kinetics were quantitated over different incubation periods (IPs) (2, 6, 10, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h postinfection). Virus titers were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the HP compared with LP line 24, 48, and 96 h postinfection. No differences were observed in plaque morphology between the LP and HP lines. Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus were fed infectious blood meals created using supernatant from the 2 lines and maintained at 28 degrees C for a 12-day IP. Although the virus dose was higher (P < 0.05) in the HP compared with the LP line, there were no significant differences in mosquito infection or dissemination rates at the end of the IP. The significance of these observations for assessing virus presence and pathogenicity is discussed.

A novel mutation in NDUFS4 causes Leigh syndrome in an Ashkenazi Jewish family

Leigh syndrome is a neurodegenerative disorder of infancy or childhood generally due to mutations in nuclear or mitochondrial genes involved in mitochondrial energy metabolism. We performed linkage analysis in an Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) family without consanguinity with three affected children. Linkage to microsatellite markers D5S1969 and D5S407 led to evaluation of the complex I gene NDUFS4, in which we identified a novel homozygous c.462delA mutation that disrupts the reading frame. The resulting protein lacks a cAMP-dependent protein kinase phosphorylation site required for activation of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I. In a random sample of 5000 healthy AJ individuals, the carrier frequency of the NDUFS4 mutation c.462delA was 1 in 1000, suggesting that it should be considered in all AJ patients with Leigh syndrome.

Entomological studies along the Colorado Front Range during a period of intense West Nile virus activity

To better understand the ecology of West Nile virus transmission in Northern Colorado, field studies were conducted in Larimer and Weld counties from September 2003 through March 2005. During summer studies, 18,540 adult mosquitoes were collected using light traps and gravid traps. West Nile virus RNA was detected in 24 of the 2,140 mosquito pools tested throughout the study area in 2003 and 2004. Culex tarsalis had the highest minimum infection rate (MIR) in both 2003 (MIR = 34.48) and in 2004 (MIR = 8.74). During winter studies, 9,391 adult mosquitoes were collected by aspirator from various overwintering sites including bridges and storm drains. The most frequently collected species was Culex pipiens. West Nile virus was not detected in our overwintering collections. The relationship between spring adult emergence and temperature inside and outside overwintering sites is described. Species composition of collections as well as the spatial and temporal distribution of West Nile virus detections are presented.

Timing of prenatal stressors and autism

Recent evidence supports a role for genetics in autism, but other findings are difficult to reconcile with a purely genetic cause. Pathological changes in the cerebellum in autism are thought to correspond to an event before 30-32 weeks gestation. Our purpose was to determine whether there is an increased incidence of stressors in autism before this time period. Surveys regarding incidence and timing of prenatal stressors were distributed to specialized schools and clinics for autism and Down syndrome, and to mothers of children without neurodevelopmental diagnoses in walk-in clinics. Incidence of stressors during each 4-week block of pregnancy was recorded. Incidence of stressors in the blocks prior to and including the predicted time period (21-32 weeks gestation) in each group of surveys was compared to the other prenatal blocks. A higher incidence of prenatal stressors was found in autism at 21-32 weeks gestation, with a peak at 25-28 weeks. This does support the possibility of prenatal stressors as a potential contributor to autism, with the timing of stressors consistent with the embryological age suggested by neuroanatomical findings seen in the cerebellum in autism. Future prospective studies would be needed to confirm this finding.

Continuous Subcutaneous Infusion of Opiates at End-of-Life

OBJECTIVE:

To review pertinent controlled trials using the continuous subcutaneous infusion of opioids (CSIO) at end-of-life and offer insight to pharmacists and clinicians into the appropriate use of this route of administration.

DATA SOURCES:

A MEDLINE search for information regarding the subcutaneous administration of opioids in terminally ill patients (1975-December 2002) was conducted using the key words subcutaneous, narcotics, morphine, hydromorphone, fentanyl, pain, hospices, and palliative care. Additional references were located through review of bibliographies of the articles cited. Case reports and postsurgical studies were excluded. Searches were limited to English-language studies using humans.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

Experimental and observational studies were evaluated, using prospective trials as the evidence base for conclusions and including pertinent retrospective trials as they relate to the subcutaneous infusion of opioids at end-of-life.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

CSIO is effective and safe for use in terminal illness. Appropriate situations for consideration of CSIO are when difficulties arise in using the oral route, standard oral opiate therapy has failed adequate trials, the patient has limited intravenous access, adequate supervision of the CSIO is present, and CSIO will not unduly limit the functional activity of the patient.

CONCLUSIONS:

CSIO has a proven role in the management of pain at end-of-life. CSIO should not be considered the first route for administration of opiates, but does offer distinct advantages in the appropriate setting. CSIO continues to be a choice for end-of-life patients and is gradually becoming a standard practice in palliative medicine.

Effects of contaminants on genetic patterns in aquatic organisms: a review

There is increasing awareness of the need to evaluate the effects of contaminants at the population level. Genetic techniques offer a powerful approach to assess contaminant-induced changes in populations. Yet studies to date are relatively few and not always carefully designed to maximize the utility inherent in this approach. We present a summary of contemporary genetic assessment methods and a review of published studies of genetic effects in field-exposed aquatic organisms. We discuss evaluations of genetic patterns that use genetic adaptation, allozyme variation, and molecular genetic (DNA) variation. Direct tests of genetic adaptation are very effective in establishing a concrete, and potentially deleterious population-level effect of contaminant exposure, but they are difficult to accomplish with most field-exposed organisms. Allozyme surveys are relatively simple and common, and may provide data that are suggestive of contaminant effects. However, these are rarely conclusive, primarily because few allozyme loci are variable and these few loci represent extremely small portions of the genome. Molecular genetic techniques have the potential to be very effective. But, there is a tendency to emphasize the power of the techniques, rather than the underlying causes of the molecular genetic patterns observed. The strength of the conclusions of each study varies widely, partially derived from variation in the strength of the techniques. We caution that all these approaches are greatly improved by careful experimental design that includes adequate numbers of reference and contaminated sites and sample size. In addition, careful exposure assessment is required, including site and tissue chemistry, biomarker responses, and measures of potentially deleterious effects, such as DNA damage, or reduced reproductive output or survival.

Depression among Patients with HIV/AIDS: A Treatment Dilemma

Increased longevity of HIV-infected individuals due to expanding pharmacological research allows a longer period of time for mood disorders to come to medical attention. A longer period of time exists in which the treatment of depression can make a difference in the quality of life, function, and course of HIV infection. Many HIV-related symptoms and concurrent treatment regimens can complicate the choices made regarding mood disorder treatments. Certain HIV/AIDS patients are at greater risk for developing depression, such as those with substance abuse/dependence. Differentiation between the clinical presentation of depression in the general population versus the HIV/AIDS population is important. Although differentiating between symptoms of depression, somatic complaints, and cognitive deficits may be difficult, specific symptoms in HIV-infected individuals prevail. Substantial evidence suggests that antidepressant therapy and psychotherapy are effective in most HIV-positive patients with major depression. One of the greatest difficulties in drug selection for the HIV-infected population is the avoidance of clinically significant drug-drug interactions between antidepressants and antiretrovirals. Evaluating the tolerability of antidepressant medications is also an important factor of effective treatment. This article attempts to clarify all the aforementioned issues pertaining to treatment choices in HIVinfected individuals suffering from depression.

Genomic organization and chromosomal localization of the mouse IKBKAP gene

The autosomal recessive disorder familial dysautonomia (FD) has recently been demonstrated to be caused by mutations in the IKBKAP gene, so named because an initial report suggested that it encoded an IkappaB kinase complex associated protein (IKAP). Two mutations in IKBKAP have been reported to cause FD. The major mutation is a T-->C transition in the donor splice site of intron 20 and the minor mutation is a missense mutation in exon 19 that disrupts a consensus serine/threonine kinase phosphorylation site. We have characterized the cDNA sequences of the mouse, rat and rabbit IKBKAP-encoded mRNAs and determined the genomic organization and chromosomal location of mouse IKBKAP. There is significant homology in the amino acid sequence of IKAP across species and the serine/threonine kinase phosphorylation site altered in the minor FD mutation of IKAP is conserved. The mouse and human IKBKAP genes exhibit significant conservation of their genomic organization and the intron 20 donor splice site sequence, altered in the major FD mutation, is conserved in the human and mouse genes. Mouse IKBKAP is located on the central portion of chromosome 4 and maps to a region in which there is conserved linkage homology between the human and mouse genomes. The homologies observed in the human and mouse sequences should allow, through the process of homologous recombination, for the generation of mice that bear the IKBKAP mutations present in individuals with FD. The characterization of such mice should provide significant information regarding the pathophysiology of FD.

Enhanced cell polarity in mutants of the budding yeast cyclin-dependent kinase Cdc28p

The yeast cyclin-dependent kinase Cdc28p regulates bud morphogenesis and cell cycle progression via the antagonistic activities of Cln and Clb cyclins. Cln G1 cyclins direct polarized growth and bud emergence, whereas Clb G2 cyclins promote isotropic growth of the bud and chromosome segregation. Using colony morphology as a screen to dissect regulation of polarity by Cdc28p, we identified nine point mutations that block the apical-isotropic switch while maintaining other functions. Like a clb2 Delta mutation, each confers tubular bud shape, apically polarized actin distribution, unipolar budding, and delayed anaphase. The mutations are all suppressed by CLB2 overexpression and are synthetically lethal with a CLB2 deletion. However, defects in multiple independent pathways may underlie their common phenotype, because the mutations are scattered throughout the CDC28 sequence, complement each other, and confer diverse biochemical properties. Glu12Gly, a mutation that alters a residue involved in Swe1p inhibition of Cdc28p, was unique in being suppressed by deficiency of SWE1 or CLN1. With wild-type CDC28, filament formation induced by CLN1 overexpression was markedly decreased in a SWE1 deletion. These results suggest that Swe1p, via inhibition of Clb2p/Cdc28p, may mediate much of the effect of Cln1p on filamentous morphogenesis.

Choice of methodology for assessing genetic impacts of environmental stressors: polymorphism and reproducibility of RAPD and AFLP fingerprints

PCR-based multi-locus DNA fingerprints represent one of the most informative and cost-effective measures of genetic diversity and are useful population-level biomarkers of toxicologic and other anthropogenic impacts. However, concerns about reproducibility of DNA fingerprints have limited their wider use in environmental biology. We assessed polymorphism and reproducibility of two common fingerprinting techniques, RAPD (randomly amplified polymorphic DNA) and AFLP (amplified fragment length polymorphism), in pedigreed populations of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) to derive general rules for selective removal of problematic fingerprint bands. We found that by excluding bands that comprised less than 1% of total intensity, and by excluding the largest and smallest 10% of the bands, we could achieve nearly 100% reproducibility of AFLP fingerprints. Similar application of band exclusion criteria to RAPD fingerprints did not significantly enhance their reproducibility, and at least 15% of RAPD bands were not fully repeatable, heritable, or transmittable. The RAPD technique produced more polymorphic fingerprints than AFLP; however, considering that a substantial proportion of RAPD markers did not demonstrate Mendelian inheritance patterns, the AFLP methodology is to be preferred for future research.

Brief report: macrographia in high-functioning adults with autism spectrum disorder

The initial description of Asperger syndrome commented on the poor handwriting and motor coordination difficulties of individuals with this condition. Early descriptions of autism do not remark upon such difficulties. Recent evidence, however, suggests that individuals with both conditions have a similar motor control impairment. Handwriting has not been formally assessed in this context. Our study compared handwriting size between individuals with autism spectrum disorder and age- and IQ-matched control subjects. Macrographia was observed among subjects with autism spectrum disorder which remained statistically significant when covaried with educational level. This finding may correlate with the anatomical abnormalities present in the cerebellum of individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Allosteric inhibition of NAD+-specific isocitrate dehydrogenase by a mitochondrial mRNA

NAD+-specific isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) has been reported to bind sequences in 5'-untranslated regions of yeast mitochondrial mRNAs. In the current study, an RNA transcript containing the 5'-untranslated region of the mRNA from the yeast mitochondrial COX2 gene is shown to be an allosteric inhibitor of the affinity-purified yeast enzyme. At 0.1 microM concentrations of the transcript, velocity of the IDH reaction is reduced to 20% of the value obtained in the absence of the RNA transcript. This inhibition is due to a 2. 5-fold increase in the S0.5 value for isocitrate. Significant inhibition of IDH activity is also obtained with a transcript containing a portion of the 5'-untranslated region of the yeast mitochondrial ATP9 gene and with an antisense form of the COX2 transcript, both of which contain potential stem-loop secondary structures implicated in binding of IDH. In contrast, much higher concentrations of yeast tRNA or poly(A)mRNA, respectively, 33- and 60-fold greater than that required for the COX2 transcript, are required to produce a 50% decrease in velocity. These results suggest that inhibition of activity is relatively specific for the 5'-untranslated regions of mitochondrial mRNAs. All measurable inhibition of IDH activity by RNA is eliminated by addition of 100 microM concentrations of the allosteric activator AMP. At equivalent concentrations, dAMP is less efficient than AMP as an allosteric activator of IDH and is proportionally less effective in protecting against inhibition of activity by the COX2 transcript. Other nucleotides that are not allosteric activators fail to protect IDH activity from inhibitory effects of RNA. Thus, alleviation of catalytic inhibition of IDH by mitochondrial mRNA correlates with the property of allosteric activation.

Allied health applications of a computerized clinical log database system

Preliminary research in the development and use of computerized clinical log records began in 1987 in an allied health college at a midwestern academic health center. This article reviews development and implementation of a computerized system for managing clinical log records to improve and enhance allied health educational programs in the radiation sciences. These clinical log databases are used for quantitative and qualitative analyses of student participation in clinical procedures, and educational planning for each student. Collecting and recording data from clinical log records serves as a valuable instructional tool for students, with both clinical and didactic applications.

Genomic organization and chromosomal localization of a new member of the murine interferon-induced guanylate-binding protein family

An RNA species has been identified whose nucleotide sequence is closely related to the mRNA encoding the murine interferon (IFN)-induced guanylate-binding protein-1 (mGBP1) and an mRNA encoding an isoprenylated protein that is constitutively expressed in various organs in the rat. Sequence analysis of the gene encoding this newly identified RNA reveals that in its 5'-region it is identical to a DNA fragment reported to represent the 5'-region of a gene termed mGBP2. In light of this homology, we term this newly identified gene product mGBP2. mGBP2 is inducible following IFN treatment in animals bearing Gbp1a alleles, in which mGBP1 is transcriptionally upregulated by IFN treatment, as well as in animals bearing Gbp1b alleles, in which mGBP1 is not induced in response to IFN treatment. The genomic organizations of the genes encoding mGBP1 and mGBP2 are similar, and the nucleotide sequences of their IFN-responsive-like elements and their relative locations are conserved. Gbp1 and Gbp2 map to a genetically indistinguishable site on the distal arm of chromosome 3.

Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of college students regarding the 1990 Nutrition Labeling Education Act food labels

OBJECTIVES

This study examined the influence of 1990 Nutrition Labeling and Education Act food labels on college students. The purposes of the study were to examine knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of college students regarding labels and relationships among these factors, and whether educational experience with labels was associated with label-reading knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.

DESIGN

A descriptive, nonexperimental research design was used. Data were gathered using a survey designed for the study.

SUBJECTS

The study surveyed 208 undergraduate students enrolled in general education classes at a midwestern university.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Descriptive statistics analyzed knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of college students regarding food labels. The Student t test and chi 2 analysis evaluated specific measures of behavior. Pearson correlation coefficients and multiple regression analysis examined relationships among variables and identified factors associated with label use.

RESULTS

Students' mean knowledge score was 48%. Knowledge score was positively correlated with attitudes toward labels (r = .14, P = .04) and use of labels (r = .87, P = .0001). Previous education in reading labels was associated with higher knowledge scores (P = .04). Ninety-five percent of participants perceived the label to be useful, but many distrusted nutrition claims. Seventy percent looked at the Nutrition Facts label when purchasing a product for the first time. The single best predictor of general label use was a positive attitude toward labels (P < .001), followed by being a woman (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

The 1990 National Labeling and Education Act food label has influenced college students. Labeling education efforts are associated with greater knowledge about labels, more favorable attitudes toward them, and increased label use in making food choices. Special attention should be directed toward explaining terms and phrases on labels and the guidelines that ensure truthfulness of nutrition claims. College students need to understand their need for numerous nutrients instead of merely focusing on the fat and caloric content of foods.

Interferon-induced guanylate binding protein-1 (GBP-1) mediates an antiviral effect against vesicular stomatitis virus and encephalomyocarditis virus

A cDNA encoding the human guanylate binding protein-1 (hGBP-1) was expressed in HeLa cells using a constitutive expression vector. Stably transfected clones expressing hGBP-1 exhibited resistance to the cytopathic effect mediated by both vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) and produced less viral progeny than control cells following infection with these viruses. To study the role hGBP-1 plays in the IFN-mediated antiviral effect, cells were stably transfected with a construct expressing antisense RNA for hGBP-1. VSV infection of IFN-alpha-treated antisense RNA-expressing cells produced an amount of virus comparable to that produced in the parental cell line, while EMCV infection of the IFN-alpha-treated transfected cells and VSV and EMCV infection of the IFN-gamma-treated transfected cells produced far more virus than was produced in the parental cell line. These results demonstrate that GBP-1 mediates an antiviral effect against VSV and EMCV and plays a role in the IFN-mediated antiviral response against these viruses.

The effect of semantic and emotional context on written recall for verbal language in high functioning adults with autism spectrum disorder

OBJECTIVE

Several deficits have been proposed to account for cognitive impairment in autism including an inability to comprehend the perspectives of others ("theory of mind"), an inability to process emotional information, and difficulty drawing together diverse information in context ("central coherence"). Because context (central coherence) and emotion can influence memory, a study was designed to show if autism spectrum disorder was associated with impaired utilisation of context and emotion in recall; and if impairments in theory of mind processing would influence recall in autism spectrum disorder.

METHODS

Ten high functioning subjects with autism spectrum disorder and 13 age and IQ matched controls were tested using recall tests. In the first coherence memory test, subjects listened to a series of word lists that were in varying degrees of syntactic and semantic (coherent) order and were asked to recall the words. In the second coherence memory test, subjects listened to stories consisting of sentences that were, or were not, in logical (coherent) order. In the emotional memory test, the subjects listened to sentences that were highly emotional or non-emotional. In the theory of mind test, the subjects listened to stories requiring varying levels of understanding of the perspectives of others.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between groups in recall of coherent versus incoherent word lists, nor was there a significant difference between groups in recall of coherent versus incoherent stories. However, the control subjects recalled more of the emotional than non-emotional sentences, whereas the autism spectrum disorder group did not show such a difference. No significant difference existed in recall of stories requiring varying levels of understanding of the perspectives of others among subjects with autism spectrum disorder, and subjects with autism spectrum disorder did not differ from control subjects in the influence of theory of mind content on story recall.

CONCLUSION

The study shows that memory in high functioning adults with autism spectrum disorder is facilitated by emotional content to a lesser degree than it is facilitated by coherence. Therefore, impairments in emotional processing cannot be considered as simply an effect of the "weak central coherence" theory in autism spectrum disorder. Whereas the reasons for this emotional deficit are unknown, evidence of abnormalities of the limbic structures in autism spectrum disorder may provide an anatomical explanation.

Attenuation of phytochrome A and B signaling pathways by the Arabidopsis circadian clock

In higher plants, environmental cues such as light signals are integrated with circadian clock signals to control precisely the daily rhythms observed for many biological functions. We have used a fusion of the promoter of a chlorophyll a/b binding protein gene, CAB2, with firefly luciferase (cab2::luc) to monitor the detailed kinetics of transcription in response to photoreceptor activation in Arabidopsis. Using this marker in phototransduction and circadian-dysfunctional mutants, we studied how signals from phytochrome and the circadian clock are integrated for the regulation of CAB2 transcription. Results from these mutant studies demonstrate that similar expression features, namely, the acute and circadian responses, are present in both etiolated and green seedlings and that the acute and circadian responses are genetically separable. We also demonstrate that persistent Pfr signaling occurs in red light-pulsed etiolated seedlings, which suggests that the circadian clock antagonizes Pfr-mediated signal transduction. Based on these genetic studies, we propose a model for the regulation of CAB2 transcription in which individual photoreceptors and phototransduction components have been assigned to specific pathways for the regulation of discrete kinetic components of the CAB2 expression pattern.

A descriptive study of breastfeeding practices and policies in Missouri hospitals

All Missouri hospitals that offer maternity services were assessed to measure their compliance with WHO/UNICEF Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI). Representatives from seventy six hospitals responded to a telephone survey relating to hospital breastfeeding practices and policies as defined by BFHI's Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. No hospital fully supported the Ten Steps. Compliance with the WHO/UNICEF criteria varied greatly. The least support was for Step I, only 28% of hospitals had a written breastfeeding policy that was communicated to all staff. The greatest support was for Step 3, 93% of hospitals had staff who informed all pregnant women of breastfeeding benefits. In order to increase breastfeeding rates and duration, administrators of hospitals that offer maternity services must increase their efforts to consistently implement the Ten Steps, to become more baby friendly, and to more fully establish a breastfeeding culture within their institutions.

Delivery of human interferon-gamma via gene transfer in vitro: prolonged expression and induction of macrophage antimicrobial activity

Daily parenteral administration of exogenous interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) induces or accelerates recovery in experimental and human infections. To develop an alternative delivery system, a replication-defective recombinant adenovirus expressing human IFN-gamma was constructed. The complete coding region of IFN-gamma was amplified by RT-PCR and inserted into an adenovirus cloning vector under the control of a human cytomegalovirus promoter. Recombinant adenovirus containing the IFN-gamma minigene (dAv-IFN-gamma) was isolated from 293 cells co-transfected with the linearized plasmid and an E1 region-deleted fragment of adenovirus genome. Following in vitro infection with dAv-IFN-gamma, dose-dependent and time-dependent expression of IFN-gamma, mRNA and production of soluble protein were demonstrated in human diploid fibroblat and HeLa cell cultures by Northern blot and ELISA, respectively. Extracellular protein secretion persisted for > = 4 weeks following initial transfection, and secreted IFN-gamma induced both antiviral activity (8000-25,000 U/ml) and macrophage activation with killing of intracellular Toxoplasma gondii and leishmania donovani. These results establish that dAv-IFN-gamma generates long-term secretion of biologically active IFN-gamma in vitro and suggest that this vector may be a useful delivery system for cytokine therapy.

Use of alternative polyadenylation sites in the synthesis of mRNAs encoding the interferon-induced tryptophanyl tRNA synthetase

The interferon-mediated induction of the gene encoding the human tryptophanyl tRNA synthetase (WRS) results in the production of two mRNA species differing in size by approximately 800 base pairs (bp). Two distinctly sized cDNAs differing by approximately 800 bp were isolated from a cDNA library generated from mRNA prepared from IFN-gamma-treated cells. Northern blot analysis using cDNA probes recognizing different regions of the WRS mRNA reveals distinctly sized mRNAs differing in the length of their 3' untranslated regions. Differential display analysis using oligo dT primers demonstrates that the different sized WRS mRNAs result from alternative polyadenylation of this transcript.

Comparison of Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI-2) scores of male bodybuilders to the male college student subgroup

The intensity and effort of bodybuilding training suggest an overinvestment in body shape and physical appearance, which has been suggested to be a risk factor for developing eating disorders. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of eating disorder tendencies among a sample of collegiate male bodybuilders (BB, n = 68) and controls (C, n = 50) (nonbodybuilders), using the Eating Disorders Inventory 2 (EDI-2). T tests were used to test the hypothesis that bodybuilders' scores would be higher than those of controls. The mean scores on the EDI-2 did not indicate the presence of eating disorder tendencies for either group. Controls scored significantly higher than bodybuilders on the Body Dissatisfaction scale. Results indicate that when the EDI-2 is used, college-age male bodybuilders are not shown to be more likely to have eating disorders than a group of college-age male controls.

Vaccination of black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes) x Siberian polecat (M. eversmanni) hybrids and domestic ferrets (M. putorius furo)against canine distemper

An inactivated canine distemper vaccine with adjuvant and a modified-live virus (MLV) vaccine were evaluated using black-footed ferret (Mustegla nigripes) x Siberian polecat (Mustela eversmanni) hybrids us surrogates for endangered black-footed ferrets. For comparative purposes, we also vaccinated domestic ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) with the MLV vaccine. Response to vaccination was measured by clinical observation, hematology, dynamics of serum virus neutralizing antibodies, and challenge with virulent canine distemper virus. No clinical signs attributable to the vaccines were observed. Transient leukopenia occurred in hybrid ferrets that received MLV vaccine and there was marked lymphopenia for approximately 52 days post-vaccination. Lymphopenia was present for approximately 21 days in domestic ferrets vaccinated with MLV vaccine. Neutralizing antibodies against canine distemper virus were detected 14 days post-vaccination in hybrids receiving MLV vaccine and most titers were > 1:1024 for the 791 days of the study. Antibody titers in hybrids vaccinated with the inactivated vaccine were significantly lower. All eight hybrid ferrets that received MLV vaccine survived challenge with virulent canine distemper virus without clinical disease. However, one of seven hybrids vaccinated with the inactivated vaccine developed canine distemper and was euthanized; two other hybrids became clinically ill but survived. The MLV vaccine may be useful in prevention of canine distemper in black-footed ferrets, but until additional studies of efficacy and safety are completed, use of the inactivated vaccine is appropriate.

Prophylaxis of Plasmodium falciparum malaria with azithromycin administered to volunteers

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether azithromycin, 250 mg/d, is effective prophylaxis for liver infection or for both liver and subsequent blood infection with Plasmodium falciparum.

DESIGN

Controlled phase II trial with two cohorts entered sequentially.

SETTING

Clinical trials center of Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Washington, D.C.

PATIENTS

Each of the two cohorts consisted of 12 normal adult volunteers who had not had malaria during the previous 2 years: 10 who received azithromycin prophylaxis and 2 controls who did not received treatment.

INTERVENTION

For cohort 1, prophylactic efficacy against liver infection alone during the initial 7 days of the infection was determined by loading participants with azithromycin before challenge with P. falciparum-infected mosquitoes on day 0 and by then giving the drug for 7 days after the challenge. The regimen was 500 mg on day 14 before the challenge, followed by 250 mg/d from day 13 before the challenge through day 7 after the challenge. For cohort 2, prophylactic efficacy against both the liver infection and the subsequent blood infection was determined by continuing drug administration for 28 days after the challenge.

MEASUREMENTS

Plasmodium falciparum infection was diagnosed through peripheral blood smears obtained up to 70 days after challenge. Malarial symptoms and adverse drug reactions were also monitored.

RESULTS

In cohort 1, 4 of 10 volunteers who received azithromycin prophylaxis (40%) did not develop parasitemia. In cohort 2, none of the 10 volunteers receiving azithromycin prophylaxis (100%) developed parasitemia. For each cohort, both control volunteers became parasitemic on days 9 through 13 after the challenge. Adverse drug reactions were few and mild.

CONCLUSIONS

In this model, prophylaxis with azithromycin (250 mg/d) was partially effective against liver parasites and completely successful against the combination of liver and blood parasites. These data suggest that azithromycin has the potential to be an effective, well-tolerated clinical prophylactic agent for P. falciparum malaria.

Expression and function of a mislocalized form of peroxisomal malate dehydrogenase (MDH3) in yeast

The malate dehydrogenase isozyme MDH3 of Saccharomyces cerevisiae was found to be localized to peroxisomes by cellular fractionation and density gradient centrifugation. However, unlike other yeast peroxisomal enzymes that function in the glyoxylate pathway, MDH3 was found to be refractory to catabolite inactivation, i.e. to rapid inactivation and degradation following glucose addition. To examine the structural requirements for organellar localization, the Ser-Lys-Leu carboxyl-terminal tripeptide, a common motif for localization of peroxisomal proteins, was removed by mutagenesis of the MDH3 gene. This resulted in cytosolic localization of MDH3 in yeast transformants. To examine structural requirements for catabolite inactivation, a 12-residue amino-terminal extension from the yeast cytosolic MDH2 isozyme was added to the amino termini of the peroxisomal and mislocalized "cytosolic" forms of MDH3. This extension was previously shown to be essential for catabolite inactivation of MDH2 but failed to confer this property to MDH3. The mislocalized cytosolic forms of MDH3 were found to be catalytically active and competent for metabolic functions normally provided by MDH2.

Functional dissection of circadian clock- and phytochrome-regulated transcription of the Arabidopsis CAB2 gene

Both the circadian clock and phytochrome regulate expression of the Arabidopsis genes encoding the light-harvesting chlorophyll a/b-binding proteins (CAB genes). Phytochrome activates CAB transcription, and it has been proposed that the circadian clock negatively regulates CAB transcription. The tobacco nuclear proteins CUF-1 (CAB upstream factor 1) and CGF-1 (CAB GATA factor 1) bind the Arabidopsis CAB2 promoter, and the CGF-1 binding site is contained within a minimal clock- and phytochrome-regulated region of the promoter. We have used in vivo cab2::luciferase gene bioluminescence markers containing site-directed mutations in the CUF-1 and CGF-1 binding sites to define the role of these proteins in CAB2 regulation and to further delineate the terminal genomic targets of the phytochrome and circadian clock signal transduction pathways. Results from these studies confirm that CUF-1 is not required to generate the circadian clock- or phytochrome-responsive CAB2 expression pattern but rather functions as a positive factor to increase CAB2 expression levels. CGF-1 interaction with the CAB2 promoter mediates the acute increase in CAB2 expression in response to phytochrome activation and contributes to the light-induced high-amplitude circadian oscillation in CAB2 expression.

Linking genotoxic responses and reproductive success in ecotoxicology

The potential of genotoxicity biomarkers as predictors of detrimental environmental effects, such as altered reproductive success of wild organisms, must be rigorously determined. Recent research to evaluate relationships between genotoxic responses and indicators of reproductive success in model animals is described from an ecotoxicological perspective. Genotoxicity can be correlated with reproductive effects such as gamete loss due to cell death; embryonic mortality; and heritable mutations in a range of model animals including polychaete worms, nematodes, sea urchins, amphibians, and fish. In preliminary studies, the polychaete worm, Neanthes arenaceodentata, and the nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans, have also shown the potential for cumulative DNA damage in gametes. If DNA repair capacity is limited in gametes, then selected life history traits such as long and synchronous periods of gametogenesis may confer vulnerability to genotoxic substances in chronic exposures. Recommendations for future research include strategic development of animal models that can be used to elucidate multiple mechanisms of effect (multiend point) at varying levels of biological organization (multilevel).

Effects of chronic irradiation on the reproductive success of the polychaete worm, Neanthes arenaceodentata

Effects of lifetime exposure to chronic irradiation on reproductive success were assessed for laboratory populations of Neanthes arenaceodentata. Exposure was initiated upon the spawning of the parental (P1) female and was terminated upon spawning of the first filial (F1) generation female; broods from the F1 pairs were sacrificed before hatching occurred. Groups of worms in the experiments received either no radiation (controls) or 0.19, 2.1 or 17 mGy h-1. The total dose received was either background or approximately 0.55, 6.5 or 54 Gy, respectively. The mean number of embryos in the broods from the F1 females exposed to 17 mGy h-1 was statistically significantly different from the mean number of embryos from control females; however, the mean number of embryos in the broods from the F1 females exposed to 0.19 and 2.1 mGy h-1 was not significantly different from the mean number from control females. For all the radiation-exposed groups, there was a statistically significant reduction in the number and percentage of live embryos in the broods from the F1 pairs as well as a statistically significant increase in the numbers and percentages of abnormal embryos. Results on embryo abnormalities and mortalities indicate that dominant- and recessive-lethal mutations were most likely induced in the germ cells and that these mutations had an adverse effect on reproductive success by affecting the survival of early-life stages. Except for pairs exposed to 17 mGy h-1, there was no evidence of gamete killing or reduced fertilization success, because the number of developing embryos in the broods did not decrease with increased dose. Data for the estimated hatch number and actual hatch number indicated that doses as low as 0.19 mGy h-1 can reduce significantly the number of larvae that hatch when lifetime doses are given.

The endoplasmic reticular heat shock protein gp96 is transcriptionally upregulated in interferon-treated cells

A cDNA clone complementary to an interferon (IFN)-induced mRNA approximately 3 kb in length was identified and sequenced revealing homology with the endoplasmic reticular heat shock protein/ATPase gp96. Both IFN-alpha and -gamma transcriptionally upregulate expression of this gene. gp96 transcripts, protein, and ATPase activity are shown to be enhanced as a result of IFN treatment in two human cell lines and this effect requires de novo protein synthesis. gp96 molecules have recently been implicated in the presentation of endogenous antigens. A number of the key elements in this pathway, the transporter proteins, the major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-linked units of the proteasomes and the MHC class I molecules are known to be IFN inducible. Our results show that yet another molecule suggested to play an accessory role in the endogenous presentation pathway is IFN inducible. Further, our studies represent the first demonstration of modulation of expression of a heat shock protein by a cytokine and identify a new enzymatic activity upregulated in IFN-treated cells.

Circadian clock- and phytochrome-regulated transcription is conferred by a 78 bp cis-acting domain of the Arabidopsis CAB2 promoter

The Arabidopsis CAB2 promoter was used to define the terminal genomic targets that are subject to regulation by the circadian clock. An in vivo cab::luciferase bioluminescent marker was used to enable the assaying of the expression of chimeric constructs with unprecedented sensitivity and time resolution in living seedlings. Dissection of -322 to +1 of the CAB2 promoter has revealed several interesting features: it was demonstrated that the 323 bp fragment contains at least one strong general positive element. The positive element contains an ACGT core sequence specifically bound by a protein activity, termed CUF-1, and contributes to high level expression but is not required for phytochrome- or circadian-regulation. Moreover, a 78 bp domain was defined that confers both circadian- and phytochrome-regulation upon heterologous promoters. Conserved GATA sequences within the 78 bp regulatory domain are specifically bound by a protein factor designated CGF-1. The binding specificity of CGF-1 appears to be related to the GT-family of trihelix DNA-binding proteins. The role of these DNA-protein interactions is discussed in terms of clock- and phytochrome regulation, and their relevance as targets for pathways defined by photomorphogenic mutants.

Isolation, characterization, and disruption of the yeast gene encoding cytosolic NADP-specific isocitrate dehydrogenase

The cytosolic isozyme of NADP-specific isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDP2) was purified from a Saccharomyces cerevisiae mutant containing a chromosomal disruption in the gene encoding the mitochondrial isozyme (IDP1). IDP2 was shown to be a homodimer with a subunit molecular weight of approximately 45,000 and an isoelectric point of 5.5. Amino acid sequences were obtained for tryptic peptides of IDP2 and used to plan polymerase chain reactions. A resulting 400 bp DNA fragment was used as a hybridization probe to isolate the IDP2 gene from a yeast genomic DNA library. The complete nucleotide sequence of the IDP2 coding region was determined and translated into a 412-residue amino acid sequence. IDP2 and IDP1 were found to be identical in 71% of the aligned residue positions. The identity of the IDP2 gene was confirmed by genomic replacement with a disrupted IDP2 coding region. Haploid yeast strains lacking either or both IDP2 and IDP1 were constructed by genetic crosses of mutant strains containing disruptions in chromosomal IDP2 and IDP1 loci. No dramatic differences in growth rates with common carbon sources could be attributed to these disruptions.

Suppression of mitochondrial mRNA levels and mitochondrial function in cells responding to the anticellular action of interferon

A lambda cDNA library prepared from polyadenylated RNA isolated from Daudi cells was differentially screened to isolate cDNAs that recognize mRNA whose levels are reduced following interferon (IFN) treatment. Southern blot and DNA sequence analysis of 20 cDNA clones that were isolated revealed that they represented mitochondrially encoded mRNAs for the following proteins: cytochrome c oxidase subunits II and III, ATPase 6, cytochrome b, and subunit 1 of the NADH dehydrogenase. Northern blot analysis employing these cDNAs and oligonucleotides generated to the remaining mitochondrially encoded mRNAs demonstrated that IFN-alpha treatment of Daudi cells mediates a time-dependent suppression of the level of all of the mitochondrially encoded mRNAs. Study of this IFN-mediated effect reveals that: (i) the suppression of the level of these mRNAs is dependent on protein synthesis, (ii) it can be observed to occur prior to any detectable effect on thymidine incorporation, (iii) the degree of suppression correlates with the sensitivity of the cells to the anticellular action of IFN, and (iv) the suppression of the level of these RNAs appears to result from an effect on the level of transcription rather than on the stability of these mRNAs. A study of the level of cellular respiration in IFN-treated Daudi cells reveals a clear suppression 3 h following IFN treatment.

Effects of acute irradiation on reproductive success of the polychaete worm, Neanthes arenaceodentata

Effects of acute irradiation on the reproductive success of a relatively low-fecundity species were investigated by exposing pairs of female and male polychaete worms (Neanthes arenaceodentata) to either no radiation (controls) or 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 5.0, 10 or 50 Gy of acute irradiation (5 Gy min-1) at the time when oocytes were visible in the female. The broods from the pairs were sacrificed before hatching occurred, and information was obtained on the number in the brood, the number of normal and abnormal embryos, and the number of embryos that were living, dying and dead. Developing gametes of N. arenaceodentata appeared to be sensitive to acute irradiation. There was a significant reduction in the percentage of live embryos in the broods from pairs receiving doses as low as 0.5 Gy, which is lower than the lowest dose at which effects in invertebrates have been reported previously. This was most likely due to the induction of lethal mutations in the developing gametes, which affected the survival of embryos in early stages of life. Except for those pairs receiving 10 or 50 Gy, there was no evidence of decreased fertility or fecundity or of reduced fertilization success; the number of embryos in the broods from only these irradiated groups was significantly different from the controls.

Brucellosis in free-ranging bison (Bison bison) from Teton County, Wyoming

Brucellosis was studied opportunistically in bison (Bison bison) in the free-ranging Jackson herd of approximately 120 in Teton County, Wyoming (USA) in March 1989. Recent abortion was diagnosed in a 2-yr-old cow and Brucella abortus biovar 1 was isolated from vaginal discharge, uterine contents, uterus, and supramammary lymph nodes. Endometritis was characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates in the lamina propria and neutrophils in uterine glands and within necrotic debris and exudate in the uterine lumen. A 5-yr-old bull had diffuse lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates in epididymis and accessory sex glands; B. abortus was isolated from seminal vesicle and ampulla. Twenty-seven (77%) of 35 bison tested from 1989 to 1990 were serologically positive or suspect on tests for Brucella antibodies. We report the occurrence of abortion due to brucellosis in free-ranging bison in the Jackson herd, suggest that bison in this herd are capable of transmitting brucellosis to other susceptible hosts, and report the first confirmation of brucellosis in this herd.

Dietitians' practices and attitudes regarding the Code of Ethics for the Profession of Dietetics

Three hundred forty-one dietetics practitioners responded (a 34% response rate) to a 103-item questionnaire that included four subscales. This article focuses on one subscale: assessment of the extent to which dietitians reportedly adhere to the profession's code of ethics as it applies to their own practices. The validity of the survey instrument was confirmed by a panel of experts, and the overall internal consistency reliability for the instrument was .82 using Cronbachs' alpha. The internal consistency reliability for the code of ethics subscale was .84 (items 1 through 16) and .88 (items 17 through 20). Respondents to the questionnaire were typically college-educated, married, white women over 40 years of age who practiced as consultant or clinical dietitians. Almost one fourth of the respondents fell into the 60 years and older age group. More than 75% of the respondents reported that they either "always" practiced specific components from the code of ethics or "strongly agreed" with code statements. No statistically significant differences were found among selected personal and professional characteristics and responses to the subscale items. These findings indicate that the dietitians in the sample reportedly adhere to and agree with the Code of Ethics for the Profession of Dietetics.

A canine model for hepatic venoocclusive disease

Hepatic venoocclusive disease is a frequent lethal complication of bone marrow transplantation. It has also been associated with hepatic irradiation and administration of chemotherapeutic agents without BMT. The pathogenesis and therapy of VOD are unclear. The present studies were directed at developing a canine model for VOD. Three groups of dogs were studied. Group one consisted of 8 dogs in which monocrotaline (MC) was administered at 125 mg/kg orally on an intermittent schedule. In 7 of the 8 dogs 6 to 9 doses of drug were administered between 42 and 110 days. Group 2 consisted of 6 dogs receiving busulfan 2 mg/kg/day for 17-25 days, when platelet counts decreased to less than 5 x 10(4)/mm3 or clinical bleeding occurred. Group 3 consisted of 2 dogs receiving 24 Gy and 4 dogs receiving 36 Gy of whole-liver irradiation. Seven of 8 dogs in group 1 developed significant liver function abnormalities and evidence of portal hypertension. Histologic findings of VOD were present at autopsy. Group 2 dogs failed to develop clinical or laboratory liver abnormalities, but 3 of 6 animals had minimal histologic evidence of VOD. Three of 6 dogs in group 3 receiving 36 Gy developed hepatic dysfunction and had findings of fibrosis at autopsy. It was concluded that MC administration produced consistent clinical and histologic features of VOD in dogs. Changes occurring after busulfan or total-liver irradiation administration were less reproducible. Dogs are a suitable large-animal model for studies of VOD.

Comparative vaginal cytology of the estrous cycle of black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes), Siberian polecats (M. eversmanni), and domestic ferrets (M. putorius furo)

Vaginal cytology and vulva size were used to characterize the reproductive cycle of female black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes), Siberian polecats (M. eversmanni), and domestic ferrets (M. putorius furo). Emphasis was on black-footed ferrets because of the need to breed these critically endangered animals and on Siberian polecats because of the close taxonomic relationship to black-footed ferrets. Vaginal cytology of the 3 species of ferret is similar. Proestrus was characterized by an increasing percentage of superficial epithelial cells and enlargement of the vulva. During estrus, superficial cells were usually greater than or equal to 90% of epithelial cells in the vaginal lavage and after several days were fully keratinized. Neutrophils were more common during all stages of the estrous cycle in domestic ferrets than they were in the other species. Following copulation, percentage of superficial calls in the vagina declined and vulva swelling subsided. Large cells, probably of uterine symplasma origin, were observed in vaginal lavages following whelping or pseudopregnancy. Vaginal cytology is extremely useful in the reproductive management of black-footed ferrets and Siberian polecats. Knowledge of normal vaginal cytology could be applied to the diagnosis of female reproductive abnormalities in all 3 species.

Interferon induces tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase expression in human fibroblasts

A cDNA clone complementary to an interferon (IFN)-induced mRNA was isolated and used to characterize the regulation of expression of its RNA by the IFNs and to identify the protein its RNA encodes. This cDNA hybridizes to IFN-induced 3.1- and 2.3-kilobase mRNAs that are synthesized in response to both IFN-alpha and IFN-gamma. IFN-gamma induces the sustained accumulation of these mRNAs while IFN-alpha induces their transient accumulation. Cycloheximide (50 micrograms/ml) failed to inhibit the induction of these mRNAs by either IFN-alpha or IFN-gamma, suggesting that their induction does not require de novo protein synthesis. DNA sequence analysis of this cDNA reveals that it encodes a protein of Mr 53,168 that has sequence homology with and the biological activity of a tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase, an enzymatic activity that has been demonstrated to play a role in and be modulated by the growth of cells. Elevated levels of this enzyme may be involved in the cell growth inhibitory activity of the IFNs.