In eukaryotes, RNA trans-splicing is a significant RNA modification process for the end-to-end ligation of exons from separately transcribed primary transcripts to generate mature mRNA. So far, three different categories of RNA trans-splicing have been found in organisms within a diverse range. Here, we review trans-splicing of discontinuous group II introns, which occurs in chloroplasts and mitochondria of lower eukaryotes and plants. We discuss the origin of intronic sequences and the evolutionary relationship between chloroplast ribonucleoprotein complexes and the nuclear spliceosome. Finally, we focus on the ribonucleoprotein supercomplex involved in trans-splicing of chloroplast group II introns from the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. This complex has been well characterized genetically and biochemically, resulting in a detailed picture of the chloroplast ribonucleoprotein supercomplex. This information contributes substantially to our understanding of the function of RNA-processing machineries and might provide a blueprint for other splicing complexes involved in trans- as well as cis-splicing of organellar intron RNAs.

Recent advances in ultrasound technology, especially high-resolution sonography, now permit visualisation of the fetal hip development. Since early diagnosis and treatment of congenital hip dislocation significantly influence the outcome of the disease, ultrasound screening of the newborn infants showed to be the most effective method. In our study assessment of the fetal hip has been performed on the prenatal level in order to provide basic knowledge on fetal hip development from 14th to 40th weeks of gestation. From the 20th week of gestation bony structures are clearly visible and allow the assessment of acetabular configuration. Soft tissue and chondral acetabular components are recognizable from the 21st week. For pre- and postnatal comparative measures Graf's method and standard documentation is used.

By ultrasound topometric measurement of the spinal anteflexion in schoolchildren we are able to identify cases with less ability of anteflexion. Because a restriction of anteflexion is discussed in the pathogenesis of idiopathic scoliosis, a follow up of these children seems to be usefully.

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