bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The swimming capacity of juvenile Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii): an ambush predator endemic to the Murray‐Darling Basin, Australia
Authors: Whiterod Nick S.
Published: September 2012

This study documented the swimming capacity of a large ambush predator, Murray cod Maccullochella peelii, endemic to the Murray‐Darling Basin, Australia. It was evident that the species is a swimming generalist, maintaining moderate ability across all aspects of the swimming capacity parameters that were investigated. For instance, the species was capable of prolonged swimming performance (critical swimming speed, Ucrit: absolute, 0.26–0.60 m·s−1, relative, 1.15–2.20 BL s−1) that was inferior to active fish species, but comparable with other ambush predators. The species had low energetic demands, maintaining a low mass‐specific standard (21.3–140.3 mg·h−1 kg−1) and maximum active metabolic rate (75.5–563.8 mg·h−1 kg−1), which lead to a small scope for activity (maximum active metabolic rate–standard metabolic rate; 1.4–5.9). They were reasonably efficient swimmers (absolute and relative optimal swimming speed, 0.17–0.61 m·s−1 and 0.77–1.93 BL·s−1, respectively) and capable of repeat bouts of prolonged performance (recovery ratio = 0.99). Allometric changes in aspects of swimming capacity were realised with body mass, whereas broad swimming capacity was maintained across a wide range of temperatures. The swimming capacity demonstrated by M. peelii reflects a sit‐and‐wait foraging strategy that seeks to conserve energy characteristic of ambush predators, but with distinct features (e.g., lack of fast‐start ability) that may reflect their evolution in some of the world's most hydrologically and thermally variable rivers.
Aberrant promoter methylation of Dab2 gene in myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Yang Yujuan , Zhang Qingxia , Xu Feng , Chang Chunkang , Li Xiao
Published: September 2012

Objectives

Human Disabled‐2 (Dab2), a putative tumor suppressor gene, is frequently down‐regulated in human tumors. This study aims to explore the association between Dab2 methylation status and expression in newly diagnosed myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients and patients who received 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine (decitabine) treatment, so as to determine the effect of Dab2 in the pathogenesis of MDS.

Methods

Methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction and bisulfite sequencing were used to detect the methylation status of Dab2 gene. Dab2 expression was investigated by using fluorescence quantitation RT‐PCR (FQRT‐PCR) and western blot analysis.

Results

Hypermethylation of Dab2 gene was present in 50.6% of patients with MDS and was significantly correlated with the down‐regulation of Dab2 mRNA and protein expression. There was a significant difference in methylation frequency between refractory anemia/refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts/MDS associated with isolated del (5q) (RA/RARS/5q‐) group (33.3%) and refractory anemia with excess blasts‐1/‐2 (RAEB‐1/RAEB‐2) group (73.3%). Significant difference was also observed between refractory cytopenia with multiline dysplasia group (37.8%) and RAEB‐1/RAEB‐2 group. In addition, higher frequency of hypermethylation was observed in intermediate‐2‐/high‐risk group, compared to low‐risk/intermediate‐1‐risk group (75.0% vs. 40.0%). Demethylating agent 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine treatment could partly reverse hypermethylation and, hence, restore the expression of Dab2 gene.

Conclusions

The Dab2 gene is inactivated in MDS in part by DNA methylation, and the suppression of Dab2 expression by DNA methylation may play a role in the development of MDS.
Genetic diversity in widespread species is not congruent with species richness in alpine plant communities
Authors: Taberlet Pierre , Zimmermann Niklaus E. , Englisch Thorsten , Tribsch Andreas , Holderegger Rolf , Alvarez Nadir , Niklfeld Harald , Coldea Gheorghe , Mirek Zbigniew , Moilanen Atte , Ahlmer Wolfgang , Marsan Paolo Ajmone , Bona Enzo , Bovio Maurizio , Choler Philippe , Cieślak Elżbieta , Colli Licia , Cristea Vasile , Dalmas Jean‐Pierre , Frajman Božo , Garraud Luc , Gaudeul Myriam , Gielly Ludovic , Gutermann Walter , Jogan Nejc , Kagalo Alexander A. , Korbecka Grażyna , Küpfer Philippe , Lequette Benoît , Letz Dominik Roman , Manel Stéphanie , Mansion Guilhem , Marhold Karol , Martini Fabrizio , Negrini Riccardo , Niño Fernando , Paun Ovidiu , Pellecchia Marco , Perico Giovanni , Piękoś‐Mirkowa Halina , Prosser Filippo , Puşcaş Mihai , Ronikier Michał , Scheuerer Martin , Schneeweiss Gerald M. , Schönswetter Peter , Schratt‐Ehrendorfer Luise , Schüpfer Fanny , Selvaggi Alberto , Steinmann Katharina , Thiel‐Egenter Conny , van Loo Marcela , Winkler Manuela , Wohlgemuth Thomas , Wraber Tone , Gugerli Felix ,   IntraBioDiv Consortium
Published: September 2012

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) aims at the conservation of all three levels of biodiversity, that is, ecosystems, species and genes. Genetic diversity represents evolutionary potential and is important for ecosystem functioning. Unfortunately, genetic diversity in natural populations is hardly considered in conservation strategies because it is difficult to measure and has been hypothesised to co‐vary with species richness. This means that species richness is taken as a surrogate of genetic diversity in conservation planning, though their relationship has not been properly evaluated. We tested whether the genetic and species levels of biodiversity co‐vary, using a large‐scale and multi‐species approach. We chose the high‐mountain flora of the Alps and the Carpathians as study systems and demonstrate that species richness and genetic diversity are not correlated. Species richness thus cannot act as a surrogate for genetic diversity. Our results have important consequences for implementing theCBDwhen designing conservation strategies.
Developing biodiverse plantings suitable for changing climatic conditions 2: Using the Atlas of Living Australia
Authors: Booth Trevor H. , Williams Kristen J. , Belbin Lee
Published: September 2012

Summary  There has been an increasing investment of taxpayer dollars in revegetation in Australia over the past 20 years, at both federal and state levels. The largest of these, the Australian Government’s Biodiversity Fund, will invest A$946 million to revegetate, rehabilitate and restore landscapes to store carbon, enhance biodiversity and build environmental resilience under climate change. The universal challenge for restoration practitioners working within these programmes is species selection for both current and future environmental conditions at a given site. For policy makers, the challenge is to provide guidelines and tools for this process. The first paper in this series of two papers looked at scientific methods that could provide underpinning knowledge to improve the assessment of species vulnerability to climatic and atmospheric change. In this paper, the publically accessible Atlas of Living Australia is used to demonstrate how revegetation project leaders can assess whether the species and provenances used in their revegetation projects are likely to be suitable for changing environmental conditions. While using the Atlas can assist current selections, ways in which more reliable selections for changing climatic conditions could be made are also outlined.
Developing biodiverse plantings suitable for changing climatic conditions 1: Underpinning scientific methods
Authors: Booth Trevor H. , Williams Kristen J.
Published: September 2012

Summary  Governments across Australia have long been investing in revegetation in an effort to restore biodiversity and, more recently, mitigate climate change. However, no readily available methods have been described to assist project leaders identify species and provenance material likely to be sustainable under the changing climatic conditions of coming decades. Focussing particularly on trees, as trees are important for biosequestration as well as for providing habitat for other native species, Paper 1 of this two part series briefly reviews species distribution models and growth simulation models that could provide the scientific underpinning to improve and refine selection processes. While these previous scientific studies provide useful insights into how trees may respond to climate change, it is concluded that a readily accessible and easy‐to‐use approach is required to consider the potential adaptability of the many trees, shrubs and ground cover species that may be needed for biodiverse plantings. In Part 2 of this paper, the Atlas of Living Australia is used to provide preliminary information to assist species selection by assessing the climatic range of individual species based on their current distributions and, where available, cultivated locations. While using the Atlas can assist current selections, ways are outlined in Part 2 in which more reliable selections for changing climatic conditions could be made, building on the methods described here.
Suppression of UV‐induced damage by a liposomal sunscreen: a prospective, open‐label study in patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus and healthy controls
Authors: Patsinakidis Nikolaos , Wenzel Joerg , Landmann Aysche , Koch Raphael , Gerß Joachim , Luger Thomas A. , Metze Dieter , Surber Christian , Kuhn Annegret
Published: September 2012

This study aimed to determine whether a broad‐spectrum liposomal sunscreen with a very high sun protection factor (Daylong actinica) can prevent damage induced by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation in patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) and healthy controls (HCs) under standardised conditions. In 20 patients with CLE and 10 HCs, defined areas of sunscreen‐untreated and sunscreen‐treated skin on the upper back were irradiated with combined UVA/UVB light. Disease‐specific skin lesions were induced by UVA/UVB light in the untreated areas of nine patients with CLE; no specific eruptions or any sun damage was observed in the sunscreen‐treated areas in any of the CLE patients, nor in the HCs. Histological analysis of skin biopsy specimens confirmed the clinical results. In conclusion, the use of a high‐protection, broad‐spectrum sunscreen can prevent UV‐induced damage in patients with CLE and HCs.
Does human leukocyte elastase degrade intact skin elastin?
Authors: Schmelzer Christian E. H. , Jung Michael C. , Wohlrab Johannes , Neubert Reinhard H. H. , Heinz Andrea
Published: September 2012

This study aimed to investigate the susceptibility of intact fibrillar human elastin to human leukocyte elastase and cathepsin G. Elastin is a vital protein of the extracellular matrix of vertebrates, and provides exceptional properties including elasticity and tensile strength to many tissues and organs, including the aorta, lung, cartilage, elastic ligaments and skin, and is thus critical for their long‐term function. Mature elastin is an insoluble and extremely durable protein that undergoes very little turnover, but sustained exposure to proteases may lead to irreversible and severe damage, and thus to functional loss of the elastic fiber network. Hence, it is a key issue to understand which enzymes actually initiate elastolysis under certain pathological conditions or during intrinsic aging. In this paper, we provide a complete workflow for isolation of pure and intact elastin from very small tissue samples to test enzymes for their elastolytic potential. This workflow was applied to skin samples from variously aged individuals, and it was found that strong differences exist in the degradability of the elastins investigated. In summary, human leukocyte elastase was unable to degrade intact elastin fibers but hydrolyzed elastin derived from the skin of old people. However, cathepsin G cleaved all elastin samples, even those derived from younger individuals. These results indicate that human leukocyte elastase is not a driving force for elastolysis, but may nevertheless promote further breakdown of elastic fibers after the action of other enzymes such as cathepsin G.
Declines in littoral species richness across both spatial and temporal nutrient gradients: a palaeolimnological study of two taxonomic groups
Authors: VELGHE KATHERINE , VERMAIRE JESSE C. , GREGORY‐EAVES IRENE
Published: September 2012

1. Using a palaeolimnological approach in shallow lakes, we quantified the species richness responses of diatoms and Cladocera to phosphorus enrichment. We also examined differences in species richness responses between littoral and pelagic assemblages of our focal communities. To address both spatial and temporal relationships, our study includes an analysis of both surface sediments from 40 lakes and of a lake sediment record spanning c. 120 years. The objective of our study was to determine whether similar species richness patterns occurred across trophic levels, as well as along spatial and temporal gradients.

2. We found that both diatom and Cladocera species richness estimates significantly declined with increasing phosphorus across space and through time. When the assemblages were subdivided according to known habitat preferences, littoral biodiversity maintained a negative trend, whereas pelagic species richness tended to show no relationship with phosphorus.

3. Negative productivity–diversity patterns have been observed across almost all palaeolimnological studies that span large productivity gradients. This congruence in patterns is most likely due to the similarity in data collection methods and in focal communities studied. The contrasting responses between littoral and pelagic assemblages may be explained by the differences in physical habitat and the pool of taxa in each of these environments. Consistent with the literature, we found statistical support for the idea that littoral diversity declines could be explained by an interaction between macrophytes and nutrients along strong trophic gradients. The general lack of a diversity response in our pelagic assemblages could be attributable to the limited pool of subfossil taxa. The response of the pelagic diatom could also be related to their broad range of nutrient tolerances.

4. The observed negative response of species richness to phosphorus enrichment, particularly in the littoral assemblages, has implications for ecosystems functioning because communities with reduced biodiversity often are less resilient to anthropogenic change.
Positive effect of shredders on microbial biomass and decomposition in stream microcosms
Authors: VILLANUEVA VERÓNICA DÍAZ , ALBARIÑO RICARDO , CANHOTO CRISTINA
Published: September 2012

1. Animals play a major role in nutrient cycling via excretory processes. Although the positive indirect effects of grazers on periphytic algae are well understood, little is known about top‐down effects on decomposers of shredders living on leaf litter.

2. Nutrient cycling by shredders in oligotrophic forest streams may be important for the microbial‐detritus compartment at very small spatial scales (i.e. within the leaf packs in which shredders feed). We hypothesised that insect excretion may cause local nutrient enrichment, so that microorganism growth on leaves is stimulated.

3. We first tested the effect of increasing concentration of ammonium (+10, +20 and +40 μg NH4+ L−1) on fungal and bacterial biomass on leaf litter in a laboratory experiment. Then we performed two experiments to test the effect of the presence and feeding activity of shredder larvae. We used two species belonging to the trichopteran family Sericostomatidae: the Palaearctic Sericostoma vittatum and the Neotropical Myothrichia murina, to test the effect of these shredders on fungal and bacterial biomass and decomposition on leaves of Quercus robur and Nothofagus pumilio, respectively. All experiments were run in water with low ammonium concentrations (2.4 ± 0.34 to 14.47 ± 0.95 μg NH4+ L−1).

4. After 5 days of incubation, NH4 concentrations were reduced to near‐ambient streamwater concentrations in all treatments with leaves. Fungal biomass was positively affected by increased ammonium concentration. On the other hand, bacteria abundance was similar in all treatments, both in terms of abundance (bacteria cells mg−1 leaf DW) and biomass. However, there was a tendency towards larger mean cell size in treatments with 20 μg NH4 L−1.

5. In the experiment with S. vittatum, fungal biomass in the treatment with insects was more than twice that in the control after 15 days. Bacteria were not detected in treatments with insects, where hyphae were abundant, but they were abundant in treatments without larvae. In the decomposition experiment run with M. murina, leaf‐mass loss was significantly higher in treatments with larvae than in controls.

6. Our hypothesis of a positive effect of shredders on fungal biomass and decomposition was demonstrated. Insect excretion caused ammonium concentration to increase in the microcosms, contributing to microbial N uptake in leaf substrata, which resulted in structural and functional changes in community attributes. The positive effect of detritivores on microbes has been mostly neglected in stream nutrient‐cycling models; our findings suggest that this phenomenon may be of greater importance than expected in stream nutrient budgets.
Driving factors of a vegetation shift from Scots pine to pubescent oak in dry Alpine forests
Authors: Rigling Andreas , Bigler Christof , Eilmann Britta , Feldmeyer‐Christe Elisabeth , Gimmi Urs , Ginzler Christian , Graf Ulrich , Mayer Philipp , Vacchiano Giorgio , Weber Pascale , Wohlgemuth Thomas , Zweifel Roman , Dobbertin Matthias
Published: September 2012

An increasing number of studies have reported on forest declines and vegetation shifts triggered by drought. In the Swiss Rhone valley (Valais), one of the driest inner‐Alpine regions, the species composition in low elevation forests is changing: The sub‐boreal Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) dominating the dry forests is showing high mortality rates. Concurrently the sub‐Mediterranean pubescent oak (Quercus pubescens Willd.) has locally increased in abundance. However, it remains unclear whether this local change in species composition is part of a larger‐scale vegetation shift. To study variability in mortality and regeneration in these dry forests we analysed data from the Swiss national forest inventory (NFI) on a regular grid between 1983 and 2003, and combined it with annual mortality data from a monitoring site. Pine mortality was found to be highest at low elevation (below 1000 m a.s.l.). Annual variation in pine mortality was correlated with a drought index computed for the summer months prior to observed tree death. A generalized linear mixed‐effects model indicated for the NFI data increased pine mortality on dryer sites with high stand competition, particularly for small‐diameter trees. Pine regeneration was low in comparison to its occurrence in the overstorey, whereas oak regeneration was comparably abundant. Although both species regenerated well at dry sites, pine regeneration was favoured at cooler sites at higher altitude and oak regeneration was more frequent at warmer sites, indicating a higher adaptation potential of oaks under future warming. Our results thus suggest that an extended shift in species composition is actually occurring in the pine forests in the Valais. The main driving factors are found to be climatic variability, particularly drought, and variability in stand structure and topography. Thus, pine forests at low elevations are developing into oak forests with unknown consequences for these ecosystems and their goods and services.
Tree species diversity interacts with elevated CO2 to induce a greater root system response
Authors: Smith Andrew R. , Lukac Martin , Bambrick Michael , Miglietta Franco , Godbold Douglas L.
Published: September 2012

As a consequence of land‐use change and the burning of fossil fuels, atmospheric concentrations of CO2 are increasing and altering the dynamics of the carbon cycle in forest ecosystems. In a number of studies using single tree species, fine root biomass has been shown to be strongly increased by elevated CO2. However, natural forests are often intimate mixtures of a number of co‐occurring species. To investigate the interaction between tree mixture and elevated CO2, Alnus glutinosa, Betula pendula and Fagus sylvatica were planted in areas of single species and a three species polyculture in a free‐air CO2 enrichment study (BangorFACE). The trees were exposed to ambient or elevated CO2 (580 μmol mol−1) for 4 years. Fine and coarse root biomass, together with fine root turnover and fine root morphological characteristics were measured. Fine root biomass and morphology responded differentially to the elevated CO2 at different soil depths in the three species when grown in monocultures. In polyculture, a greater response to elevated CO2 was observed in coarse roots to a depth of 20 cm, and fine root area index to a depth of 30 cm. Total fine root biomass was positively affected by elevated CO2 at the end of the experiment, but not by species diversity. Our data suggest that existing biogeochemical cycling models parameterized with data from species grown in monoculture may be underestimating the belowground response to global change.
The effect of feeding animals ad libitum vs. at maintenance level on the in vivo digestibility of mown herbage from two permanent grasslands of different botanical composition
Authors: Andueza D. , Picard F. , Jestin M. , Aufrère J.
Published: September 2012

The aim of this experiment was to study the effect of feeding level (FL) on the digestibility of unconserved forage obtained from two permanent grasslands cut at three different dates during the first cycle of growth. Forage was offered to Texel sheep (wethers), at maintenance level and at ad libitum level. Differences in voluntary intake (VI) between grasslands were also tested. Organic matter digestibility (OMD) measured at ad libitum level and at VI was 13% higher on harvested forage from grassland rich in forbs (GRF) than grassland rich in grasses (GRG) at early herbage growth stages, but these differences were no longer found at later maturity stages. In GRF, there were no differences for OMD, at either FL at the young growth stages, but at the end of the cycle the OMD obtained at ad libitum level (0·56) was higher than that at maintenance level (0·50). However, in GRG, at an early stage of forage maturity, OMD at ad libitum level (0·67) was lower than that at maintenance level (0·70), but this difference was no longer found at the end of the growth cycle. In conclusion, the effect of FL on the digestibility of unconserved forage from permanent grasslands depends on the type of grassland. These differences are mainly explained by the different botanical composition of the grassland types.
Menstrual bleeding patterns and prevalence of bleeding disorders in a multidisciplinary adolescent haematology clinic
Authors: Vo K. T. , Grooms L. , Klima J. , Holland‐Hall C. , O'Brien S. H.
Published: September 2012

Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is a frequent complaint in adolescence. Although HMB is often caused by immaturity of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐ovarian axis, bleeding disorders are another common yet often unidentified cause. The aim of this study was to examine the bleeding patterns and prevalence of inherited bleeding disorders among females referred for HMB to a multidisciplinary adolescent haematology clinic. We retrospectively reviewed the first 105 patients (ages 8–18 years) referred to this specialty clinic from February 2009 to December 2011. Using menstrual bleeding questionnaires and medical records, data were extracted regarding demographics, bleeding patterns, frequency and types of bleeding disorders identified, and prescribed interventions. Sixty‐two per cent of patients were diagnosed with a bleeding disorder, including platelet storage pool deficiency (36%), von Willebrand's disease (9%), other platelet function defect (8%), Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome (7%) and combined bleeding disorders (2%). Comparison of the bleeding profiles for females with and without a bleeding disorder revealed only three factors that were significantly different, including the reported regularity of patients' periods (P = 0.02), description of period flow (P = 0.04) and number of days of each period that the bleeding was described as ‘heavy’ (P = 0.007). Bleeding disorders are prevalent in adolescent females presenting to a specialty clinic. Specifically, a relatively high proportion of adolescents were diagnosed with platelet storage pool deficiency. In our small population, menstrual bleeding profiles, as examined by a standardized questionnaire, could not identify females with an underlying bleeding disorder, demonstrating the important role of haemostasis testing in the evaluation of adolescents with HMB.
Treating alcoholism reduces financial burden on care‐givers and increases quality‐adjusted life years
Authors: Salize Hans Joachim , Jacke Christian , Kief Sven , Franz Michael , Mann Karl
Published: September 2012

Aims

The study assessed the alcoholism‐related financial burden borne by informal care‐givers and relatives of German alcoholic patients.

Design

By using an exploratory approach, care‐giver burden was assessed both prior to and 12 months after detoxification and withdrawal. Quality‐of‐life data for care‐givers collected during follow‐up were used to calculate the number of quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) gained by alcoholics’ family members while their relatives are undergoing treatment.

Participants

Forty‐eight informal care‐givers and relatives of alcoholic patients.

Setting

In‐patient and out‐patient departments of three psychiatric university hospitals in Germany.

Measurements

Expenditures of families related directly to the addiction disorder of alcoholic patients, quality of life of care‐givers, relapses of patients.

Findings

Families’ expenditures related directly to their addicted member's alcoholism decreased from an average of €676.44 per month (or 20.2% of the total pre‐tax family income) at baseline to an average of €145.40 per month at 12 months after the beginning of treatment. The average time spent caring for the affected family member was reduced from 32.3 hours per month to 8.2 hours per month (P = 0.0109), and quality‐of‐life total scores increased from 60.6 to 68.0. The total gain in QALYs for family members was 0.108. When weighed against the average cost of the alcoholism treatment, the cost of one QALY for care‐giving family members was €20 398 on average.

Conclusions

Among the families of German alcoholics who receive detoxification, there is a substantial reduction in family expenditures, time spent caring and an increase in quality of life at 1 year. These are important but often neglected additional measures of the burden on family members and also treatment benefits.
A comparison of the pelvic angle applied using lateral table tilt or a pelvic wedge at elective caesarean section
Authors: Kinsella S. M. , Harvey N. L.
Published: September 2012

Lateral table tilt or a pelvic wedge are commonly used to reduce inferior vena cava compression during obstetric anaesthesia in the supine position. Direct measurement of pelvic angle allows individual assessment of the effectiveness of these manoeuvres in achieving a tilted position. We observed routine practice during caesarean section after random allocation to one or other of these methods. The anaesthetist managing the case was asked to position the women after induction of spinal anaesthesia using either left table tilt or a wedge under the right hip. We then measured pelvic angle in all women, and the table angle in women who had table tilt. The mean (SD [range]) pelvic angle was 20.2° (8.1° [9°–37°]) in 18 women with table tilt and 21.0° (7.5° [10°–36°]) in 17 women with a wedge. The mean (SD [range]) table angle was 12.4° (3.1° [8°–21°]) in the women with table tilt. There was a significant difference between table angle and pelvic angle in the women with table tilt (p = 0.0003), but no significant difference in pelvic angle between the table tilt and wedge groups. Measurement of table angle does not represent pelvic position adequately in the majority of women. However, this study showed that lateral table tilt and a pelvic wedge were equally effective in producing tilt of the pelvis.
Production of active lipase by Rhizopus oryzae from sugarcane bagasse: solid state fermentation in a tray bioreactor
Authors: Vaseghi Zahra , Najafpour Ghasem D. , Mohseni Samaneh , Mahjoub Soleiman
Published: September 2012

This study deals with production of lipase in solid state fermentation by Rhizopus oryzae from sugarcane bagasse. A tray bioreactor was designed for the extracellular enzyme production. Daily, lipase production was evaluated at several incubation temperatures. Furthermore, the influence of temperature and humidity of the cabinet, depth of solid bed, particle size, initial moisture content and supplementary substrate (olive oil) as carbon source was investigated. The obtained results showed that bioreactor temperature of 45 °C, humidity of 80%, solid bed depth of 0.5 cm, particle size in the range of 0.335–1 mm, substrate initial moisture content of 80% for the top tray and 70% for the middle tray and supplementary substrate of 8% (v/w) olive oil led to maximum lipase production. Under optimum fermentation conditions after 72‐h incubation, maximum lipase activities for the top, middle and bottom trays were 215.16, 199.36 and 52.64 U gds−1, respectively.
Habitat complexity does not promote coexistence in a size‐structured intraguild predation system
Authors: Reichstein Birte , Schröder Arne , Persson Lennart , De Roos André M.
Published: September 2012

Size‐dependent interactions and habitat complexity have been identified as important factors affecting the persistence of intraguild predation (IGP) systems. Habitat complexity has been suggested to promote intraguild (IG) prey and intraguild predator coexistence through weakening trophic interactions particularly the predation link.

Here, we experimentally investigate the effects of habitat complexity on coexistence and invasion success of differently sized IG‐predators in a size‐structured IGP system consisting of the IG‐predator Poecilia reticulata and a resident Heterandria formosa IG‐prey population. The experiments included medium‐long and long‐term invasion experiments, predator–prey experiments and competition experiments to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the effect of prey refuges.

Habitat complexity did not promote the coexistence of IG‐predator and IG‐prey, although the predation link was substantially weakened. However, the presence of habitat structure affected the invasion success of large IG‐predators negatively and the invasion success of small IG‐predators positively. The effect of refuges on size‐dependent invasion success could be related to a major decrease in the IG‐predator's capture rate and a shift in the size distribution of IG‐predator juveniles.

In summary, habitat complexity had two main effects: (i) the predation link was diminished, resulting in a more competition driven system and (ii) the overall competitive abilities of the two species were equalized, but coexistence was not promoted. Our results suggest that in a size‐structured IGP system, individual level mechanisms may gain in importance over species level mechanisms in the presence of habitat complexity.
The Role of Angiotensin II on Sodium Appetite After a Low‐Sodium Diet
Authors: Mecawi A. S. , Vilhena‐Franco T. , Fonseca F. V. , Reis L. C. , Elias L. L. K. , Antunes‐Rodrigues J.
Published: September 2012

The present study aimed to investigate the role of angiotensin II (Ang II) on sodium appetite in rats subjected to a normal or a low‐sodium diet (1% or > 0.1% NaCl) for 4 days. During sodium restriction, a reduction in water intake, urinary volume and sodium excretion was observed. After a low‐sodium diet, we observed decreased plasma protein concentrations and haematocrit associated with a slight reduction in arterial pressure, without any significant changes in heart rate, natraemia, corticotrophin‐releasing hormone mRNA expression in the paraventricular nucleus and corticosterone levels. After providing hypertonic saline, there was an increase in saline intake followed by a small increase in water intake, resulting in an enhanced saline intake ratio and the recovery of arterial pressure. Sodium deprivation increased plasma but not brain Ang I and II concentrations. A low‐sodium diet increased kidney renin and liver angiotensinogen mRNA levels but not lung angiotensin‐converting enzyme mRNA expression. Moreover, Ang II type 1a receptor mRNA expression was increased in the subfornical organ and the dorsal raphe nucleus and decreased in the medial preoptic nuclei, without changes in the paraventricular nucleus and the nucleus of solitary tract after a low‐sodium diet. Blockade of AT1 receptors or brain Ang II synthesis led to a reduction in sodium intake after a low‐sodium diet. Intracerebroventricular injection of Ang II led to a similar increase in sodium and water intake in the control and low‐sodium diet groups. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest that Ang II is involved in the increased sodium appetite after a low‐sodium diet.
Field evaluations of disposable sticky lures for surveillance of Aedes aegypti (Stegomyia aegypti) and Culex quinquefasciatus in Jakarta
Authors: KAY B. H. , BROWN M. D. , SITI Z. , BANGS M. J.
Published: September 2012

From December 1997 to April 1998, disposable sticky lures (1608 lure days) were trialled in homes in north Jakarta, Indonesia as surveillance tools for Aedes aegypti (Stegomyia aegypti) (Diptera: Culicidae) and Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae), referenced to indoor resting adult collections (92 × 10 min). The lures collected 89.4% of the total of 1339 Ae. aegypti and 92.1% of the total of 1272 Cx. quinquefasciatus collected by all methods. Because there were no significant differences with respect to numbers collected in bedrooms, living rooms and kitchens, bedrooms were selected for subsequent trials for reasons of convenience. The main trials involved a replicated complete block design with L‐lysine and sodium carbonate. Lures without attractant or with four different dilutions of L‐lysine collected 3.4–8.5 times more Ae. aegypti and 4.2–8.1 times more Cx. quinquefasciatus than were collected by mouth aspirator. Lures with or without dilutions of sodium carbonate collected 2.7–5.0 times more Ae. aegypti and 1.8–4.2 times more Cx. quinquefasciatus than aspirator collections. The precision associated with catches of sticky lures was better than that for aspirator collections. Although olfactants generally improved the numbers of mosquitoes collected, the differences in catch between lures with and without attractants were usually non‐significant. Any deficit in catch may be offset by increasing the surveillance period to ≥30 days to detect all four dengue serotypes from infected mosquitoes.
The phylogenetic relationships among infraorders and superfamilies of Diptera based on morphological evidence
Authors: LAMBKIN CHRISTINE L. , SINCLAIR BRADLEY J. , PAPE THOMAS , COURTNEY GREG W. , SKEVINGTON JEFFREY H. , MEIER RUDOLF , YEATES DAVID K. , BLAGODEROV VLADIMIR , WIEGMANN BRIAN M.
Published: September 2012

Members of the megadiverse insect order Diptera (flies) have successfully colonized all continents and nearly all habitats. There are more than 154 000 described fly species, representing 10–12% of animal species. Elucidating the phylogenetic relationships of such a large component of global biodiversity is challenging, but significant advances have been made in the last few decades. Since Hennig first discussed the monophyly of major groupings, Diptera has attracted much study, but most researchers have used non‐numerical qualitative methods to assess morphological data. More recently, quantitative phylogenetic methods have been used on both morphological and molecular data. All previous quantitative morphological studies addressed narrower phylogenetic problems, often below the suborder or infraorder level. Here we present the first numerical analysis of phylogenetic relationships of the entire order using a comprehensive morphological character matrix. We scored 371 external and internal morphological characters from larvae, pupae and adults for 42 species, representing all infraorders selected from 42 families. Almost all characters were obtained from previous studies but required revision for this ordinal‐level study, with homology assessed beyond their original formulation and across all infraorders. We found significant support for many major clades (including the Diptera, Culicomorpha, Bibionomorpha, Brachycera, Eremoneura, Cyclorrhapha, Schizophora, Calyptratae and Oestroidea) and we summarize the character evidence for these groups. We found low levels of support for relationships between the infraorders of lower Diptera, lower Brachycera and major lineages of lower Cyclorrhapha, and this is consistent with findings from molecular studies. These poorly supported areas of the tree may be due to periods of rapid radiation that left few synapomorphies in surviving lineages.
Factors affecting continued use of ceramic water purifiers distributed to tsunami‐affected communities in Sri Lanka
Authors: Casanova Lisa M. , Walters Adam , Naghawatte Ajith , Sobsey Mark D.
Published: September 2012

Objectives  There is little information about continued use of point‐of‐use technologies after disaster relief efforts. After the 2004 tsunami, the Red Cross distributed ceramic water filters in Sri Lanka. This study determined factors associated with filter disuse and evaluate the quality of household drinking water.

Methods  A cross‐sectional survey of water sources and treatment, filter use and household characteristics was administered by in‐person oral interview, and household water quality was tested. Multivariable logistic regression was used to model probability of filter non‐use.

Results  At the time of survey, 24% of households (107/452) did not use filters; the most common reason given was breakage (42%). The most common household water sources were taps and wells. Wells were used by 45% of filter users and 28% of non‐users. Of households with taps, 75% had source water Escherichia coli in the lowest World Health Organisation risk category (<1/100 ml), vs. only 30% of households reporting wells did. Tap households were approximately four times more likely to discontinue filter use than well households.

Conclusion  After 2 years, 24% of households were non‐users. The main factors were breakage and household water source; households with taps were more likely to stop use than households with wells. Tap water users also had higher‐quality source water, suggesting that disuse is not necessarily negative and monitoring of water quality can aid decision‐making about continued use. To promote continued use, disaster recovery filter distribution efforts must be joined with capacity building for long‐term water monitoring, supply chains and local production.
In vitro and in vivo properties differ among liquid intravenous immunoglobulin preparations
Authors: Dhainaut F. , Guillaumat P.‐O. , Dib H. , Perret G. , Sauger A. , de Coupade C. , Beaudet M. , Elzaabi M. , Mouthon L.
Published: September 2012

Objective  To compare in vitro and in vivo biological and biochemical properties of five liquid intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) preparations licensed for therapeutic use in Europe.

Methods  ClairYg® was compared in a blinded manner to four other liquid IVIg preparations licensed in Europe (Octagam®, Kiovig®, Gamunex®, Privigen®). Three batches of each preparation were tested, except for the IgG repertoires and the animal model.

Results  Levels of anti‐A and anti‐B antibodies were lower in ClairYg® (0·11/0·11) relative to a positive EDQM standard and Octagam® (0·11/0·08) than in other preparations (0·33–0·69/0·42–0·46). IgG in ClairYg® recognized 365 and 416 protein spots in HEp‐2 cell and Escherichia coli protein extracts vs. 230–330 and 402–842 protein spots, respectively, for IgG in other preparations. IgA content (301 vs. 165–820 ng/mg of IgG), Factor XI and Factor XII antigen (0·46 vs. 0·85–2·40 mU/mg of IgG and 7·8 vs. 20·0–46·2 lU/mg of IgG) C1q binding (0·42 vs. 0·67–1·89 arbitrary units) and C5a uptake (0·41 vs. 0·45–0·66% of activation) were lower in ClairYg® than in other preparations. Finally, intravenous infusion of ClairYg®, Gamunex® and Privigen® had no major effect on arterial blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

Conclusions  Our results evidence some differences in the biological and biochemical properties among licensed liquid IVIg preparations.
Comparison of organic and conventional selection environments for spring wheat
Authors: KIRK ANNE P. , FOX STEPHEN L. , ENTZ MARTIN H.
Published: September 2012

With 1 figure and 8 tables

An important research question is whether wheat cultivars for organic production should be selected under organic field conditions. Yield, protein content and kernel weight (KWT) of seven populations of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) selected in both organic and conventional growing conditions (termed selection environments) were compared at four organically and four conventionally managed sites (termed management environments). Selection environment was found to affect yield, protein and KWT in both management environments. At most sites, populations selected in organic environments had higher yields at organically managed sites relative to conventionally selected populations. When organically managed site‐years were combined, the yields of organically selected populations were significantly higher than those of conventionally selected populations. Populations selected under organic management had higher protein content and KWT under both management environments. Direct selection in organically managed field conditions for genotypes targeted to organic agriculture offers advantages over indirect selection in conventionally managed field conditions.
An unusual cause of fever
Authors: Gilchrist Michelle , Wong Melanie , Mansour Albert , Isaacs David
Published: September 2012

A 5‐month old infant presented with a short history of fever of unknown origin. He initially appeared well although there was a resting tachycardia during periods of normal temperature, and pancytopenia. He remained febrile in spite of antibiotic therapy and by 48 h he had developed marked hepatosplenomegaly and coagulopathy. At 72 h a bone marrow aspirate and trephine biopsy showed haemophagocytosis. By this time the infant was encephalopathic and haemodynamically unstable with multi‐organ dysfunction. Treatment with high‐dose methylprednisolone and cyclosporin was commenced with an initial good response. Unfortunately the patient ultimately died of infective complications of treatment and reactivation of the underlying disease process.

Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare disorder of the mononuclear phagocyte system characterised by proliferation of morphologically benign histiocytes resulting in hypercytokinaemia and uncontrolled activation of immune cells. The diagnosis of familial HLH should be considered in any infant with fever, splenomegaly and cytopenia of at least two cell lines. HLH may be cured by immunosuppressive therapy and eventual stem cell transplantation but rapid disease progression to multi‐organ failure results in a high mortality.
Multiple carcinoid tumors of the rectum: Report of two cases suggesting the origin of carcinoid tumors
Authors: Sasou Shunichi , Suto Takeshi , Satoh Toshihiko , Tamura Gen , Kudara Norihiko
Published: September 2012

Two cases of multiple carcinoid tumors of the rectum with numerous micronests of carcinoid tumors are reported. The patients were 51‐ and 58‐year‐old males. Many carcinoid tumors and numerous carcinoid micronests were found in the resected rectum; the total number of carcinoid tumors, groups of micronests, and solitary micronests was 69 in the first case and 62 in the second case. The micronests, consisting of a few to many endocrine cells, were observed in the lamina propria, muscularis mucosa, and/or submucosa. Micronests increased in number, gathered and formed carcinoid tumors, which were up to 8 mm in diameter. It was found that a nest of the carcinoid tumors in the lamina propria showed continuity with the endocrine cells of a crypt in the different carcinoid tumors in both cases. The carcinoid tumor and micronest infiltrated the nerves and ganglions in the muscularis mucosa and submucosa. Nests of the carcinoid tumors and micronests were surrounded by S‐100‐positive cells. Lymph node metastases of the carcinoid tumor were found in both cases. Rectal carcinoid tumors may originate from endocrine cells of the crypts, and multiple carcinoid tumors may occur heterogeneously.
Cancer genomics and pathology: All Together Now
Authors: Shibata Tatsuhiro
Published: September 2012

Cancer develops from a single cell with stepwise accumulation of genomic alterations. Recent innovative sequencing technologies have made it possible to sequence the full cancer genome. Cancer genome sequencing has been productive and helpful in the discovery of novel cancer genes. It also has revealed previously unknown but intriguing features of the cancer genome such as chromothripsis and kataegis. However, careful comparison of these studies has suggested that analyses of most tumors still seem to be incomplete, and histopathological diagnosis/classification will be essential for refining these data. Based on the improvement of technology and the completion of the cancer gene catalog, genetic diagnosis, such as examination of all potentially druggable mutations, of individual cancers will be performed routinely together with histological diagnosis. Pathologists will play a central role in both interpreting these patho‐molecular diagnoses for oncologists, and the process of decision‐making necessary for individualized medicine.
The characteristic expression of B7‐H3 and B7‐H4 in liver biopsies from patients with HBV‐related acute‐on‐chronic liver failure
Authors: Guo Guoning , Cao Dayan , Xu Huan , Ruan Zhihua , Fei Lei , Xie Zhunyi , Wu Yuzhang , Chen Yongwen
Published: September 2012

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major public health problem, and HBV‐related acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (HBV‐ACLF) has an extremely poor prognosis due to a lack of effective treatments. B7‐H3 and B7‐H4 are two novel members of the B7 superfamily that are actively involved in regulating the pathogenesis of infectious diseases. However, the intrahepatic expression of both members in HBV‐ACLF patients has yet to be described. In this study, we analyzed the expression of B7‐H3 and B7‐H4 in HBV‐ACLF biopsies by immunohistochemistry. Our results showed that both members were observed in all HBV‐ACLF samples, and their expression was chiefly observed on infiltrating inflammatory cells and the damaged bile ducts. Immunofluorescence double staining showed that B7‐H4 was expressed chiefly on CD3+ T cells, CD68+ macrophages, CK‐18+ bile ducts, and CD31+ endothelial cells, while B7‐H3 was found on all cell types detected. The expression of the programmed death (PD)‐1 ligands, PD‐L1 and PD‐L2, was also detected in these liver tissues and they were found to be co‐expressed with B7‐H3 and B7‐H4. These results suggest that the B7‐family signaling is most likely to affect the pathogenesis of this disease, and a clear understanding of their functional roles may further elucidate the disease process.