bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence from genetic and Lagrangian drifter data for transatlantic transport of small juvenile green turtles
Authors: Monzón‐Argüello C. , López‐Jurado L. F. , Rico C. , Marco A. , López P. , Hays G. C. , Lee P. L. M.
Published: June 2010

Aim  A key life‐history component for many animals is the need for movement between different geographical locations at particular times. Green turtle (Chelonia mydas) hatchlings disperse from their natal location to spend an early pelagic stage in the ocean, followed by a neritic stage where small juveniles settle in coastal areas. In this study, we combined genetic and Lagrangian drifter data to investigate the connectivity between natal and foraging locations. In particular we focus on the evidence for transatlantic transport.

Location  Atlantic Ocean.

Methods  We used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences (n = 1567) from foraging groups (n = 8) and nesting populations (n = 12) on both sides of the Atlantic. Genetic data were obtained for Cape Verde juvenile turtles, a foraging group not previously sampled for genetic study. Various statistical methods were used to explore spatial genetics and population genetic structure (e.g. exact tests of differentiation, Geneland and analysis of molecular variance). Many‐to‐many mixed stock analysis estimated the connectivity between nesting and foraging groups.

Results  Our key new finding is robust evidence for connectivity between a nesting population on the South American coast (25% of the Surinam nesting population are estimated to go to Cape Verde) and a foraging group off the coast of West Africa (38% of Cape Verde juveniles are estimated to originate from Surinam), thus extending the results of previous investigations by confirming that there is substantial transatlantic dispersal in both directions. Lagrangian drifter data demonstrated that transport by drift across the Atlantic within a few years is possible.

Main conclusions  Small juvenile green turtles seem capable of dispersing extensively, and can drop out of the pelagic phase on a transatlantic scale (the average distance between natal and foraging locations was 3048 km). Nevertheless, we also find support for the ‘closest‐to‐home’ hypothesis in that the degree of contribution from a nesting population to a foraging group is correlated with proximity. Larger‐sized turtles appear to feed closer to their natal breeding grounds (the average distance was 1133 km), indicating that those that have been initially transported to far‐flung foraging grounds may still be able to move nearer to home as they grow larger.
Recent changes in the distribution of a marine gastropod, Patella rustica, across the Iberian Atlantic coast did not result in diminished genetic diversity or increased connectivity
Authors: Ribeiro Pedro A. , Branco Madalena , Hawkins Stephen J. , Santos António M.
Published: June 2010

Aim  The Lusitanian limpet, Patella rustica Linnaeus, 1758, is a rocky shore intertidal mollusc found throughout the Mediterranean and the north‐east Atlantic from Mauritania to southern France. A 280‐km gap in its distribution in the Iberian north‐west was first reported in the early 20th century. Between 2002 and 2005 this gap was bridged, and unusual climatic and hydrographic events that occurred in the late 1990s are hypothesized to have facilitated transport and settlement of colonizers from the southern edge of the gap. In the present work we used genetic data to investigate differentiation between the edges of the former gap, to determine the origin of colonizers and to assess patterns of connectivity across the historical and newly colonized region.

Location  Atlantic coast of Iberia (Portugal and north‐west Spain) and Biarritz.

Methods  The genetic variation of 12 sites, sampled between 2004 and 2006, was assessed through the analysis of five microsatellites (n = 412) and of a 650‐bp fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (COI; n = 163). F‐statistics were used to investigate differentiation and patterns of gene flow across the distribution of P. rustica, from southern Portugal to Biarritz. The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mismatch distribution was analysed and the mutation–drift equilibrium tested to investigate putative demographic changes.

Results  Levels of differentiation were low and generally non‐significant. Comparisons between regions of the historical distribution were all non‐significant. For microsatellites, low yet significant genetic differentiation was observed when all three regions were included. Levels of genetic diversity of newly founded populations were similar to those observed within the historical range. Evidence of demographic changes was detected with mtDNA and microsatellites.

Main conclusions  The studied region is inhabited by a single population, suggesting that the gap in the distribution of P. rustica was not an effective barrier to gene flow. If it has ever prevented gene flow, it did not last enough time for genetic differentiation to occur. On the other hand, the main currents flowing along the Atlantic coast of Iberia could have been responsible for maintaining connectivity through occasional larval transport across a considerable stretch of inhospitable habitat.
Patterns of population genetic diversity in riparian and aquatic plant species along rivers
Authors: Honnay Olivier , Jacquemyn Hans , Nackaerts Kris , Breyne Peter , Van Looy Kris
Published: June 2010

Aim  The downstream hydrochoric spread of seeds of aquatic and riparian plant species, without upstream compensation, can be expected to result in downstream accumulation of population genetic diversity. This idea has been termed the ‘unidirectional dispersal hypothesis’ and is the genetic equivalent of the more generally known ‘drift paradox’. Our aim was to test this unidirectional diversity hypothesis, and to present a general synthesis of the patterns of population genetic variation across different riparian and aquatic plant species along rivers.

Location  The Meuse River (Belgium) and rivers world‐wide.

Methods  First, we used amplified fragment length polymorphism markers to compare patterns of within‐ and between‐population genetic diversity among three riparian plant species (Sisymbrium austriacum, Erysimum cheiranthoides and Rorippa sylvestris), typically occurring in different habitats along a gradient perpendicular to the Meuse River. Second, we performed a meta‐analysis on studies reporting on the population genetic structure of riparian and aquatic plant species along rivers.

Results  Along the Meuse River, we found significant genetic differentiation among populations of all three riparian species, and significant isolation by distance for one of them (R. sylvestris). There was no clear association between the typical habitat of a species and its population genetic structure. None of the three species provided evidence for the unidirectional dispersal hypothesis. The meta‐analysis, based on 21 data records, did not support the unidirectional dispersal hypothesis either. Average weighted population genetic differentiation across species was significant.

Main conclusions  Important mechanisms of upstream seed dispersal, probably through zoochory, together with higher seed recruitment opportunities in upstream habitats due to density dependence of recruitment, may explain the absence of downstream accumulation of genetic diversity. Also, it seems difficult to find consistent patterns in genetic variation in species from aquatic and riparian habitats. We argue that this is due to the recurrent extinctions and colonizations characteristic of these habitats, resulting in complex genetic patterns. Our results strongly support previous suggestions that stream ecology should consistently embrace metapopulation theory to be able to understand patterns of genetic diversity, as well as species diversity.
Immediate effect of an elastomeric oral appliance on the neuromuscular coordination of masticatory muscles: a pilot study in healthy subjects
Authors: SFORZA C. , MONTAGNA S. , ROSATI R. , DE MENEZES M.
Published: June 2010

Summary  To compare the electromyographic characteristics of masticatory muscles with and without a new elastomeric oral device proposed for masticatory muscle training, 10 healthy subjects aged 23 to 32 were examined. Surface electromyography of masseter and temporal muscles was performed during maximum teeth clenching without and with the device and during unilateral chewing with either gum or the device. During clenching, a significant increment of the overall muscular activity was promoted by the occlusal device in comparison with the intercuspal teeth clenching (P = 0·05). Muscular standardised activity during device chewing was significantly higher than that during gum chewing (P = 0·005), and it was more evenly distributed between working and balancing sides (P = 0·023 right side, P = 0·039 left side), and between masseter and temporal muscles (right side test, P = 0·014). No significant differences were found for the global neuromuscular co‐ordination, the masticatory symmetry and the chewing frequency. Clenching and chewing with the analysed occlusal prostheses was performed with a relative increment of muscular activity. These findings may be the basis for the training effect proposed for this device.
Decreased IFNγ production correlates with diminished production of cytokines by dendritic cells in patients infected with hepatitis C virus and receiving therapy
Authors: Hammond T. , Lee S. , Watson M. W. , Flexman J. P. , Cheng W. , Price P.
Published: June 2010

Summary.  Toll‐like receptor (TLR) expression and the signalling pathways that lead to the production of accessory cytokines by antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) both have potential to limit T‐cell responses to viral antigens. Here, expression of TLR and retinoic acid inducible gene I (RIG‐I) and responses evoked through these proteins were evaluated in patients chronically infected with HCV, before and during pegylated interferon‐α (IFNα) and ribavirin therapy. Expression of TLR2, 3, 4, 7, 9 and RIG‐I on APCs and cytokine production by DCs were measured by flow cytometry. Production of IL‐12 by myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs), IFNα by plasmacytoid cells (pDCs) and IFNγ by peripheral blood mononuclear cells was measured after stimulation with TLR ligands. IFNγ ELISpot responses to HCV and CMV antigens declined on therapy. TLR and RIG‐I expression on mDCs, pDCs, B cells and monocytes was either similar or higher in patients than that in controls and generally increased during therapy. Therapy impaired IL‐12 and IFNα production by DCs and reduced production of IFNγ by PBMCs after stimulation with ligands for TLR3, TLR7/8, TLR9 and RIG‐I. This was independent of whether patients attained a sustained virological response. HCV disease and interferon‐based therapy reduced IFN‐γ responses to HCV antigens and TLR agonists. This was not accompanied by reduced expression of pertinent TLR but correlated with diminished production of co‐stimulatory cytokines by DCs stimulated via TLR.
Social networking between mobile introns and their host genes
Authors: Stoddard Barry , Belfort Marlene
Published: June 2010

Homing endonucleases have long been known as the orchestrators of intron mobility. However, the extent of their influence on the intron and its genetic and cellular environment is still being elucidated. The accompanying paper emphasizes the importance of temporal control of endonuclease expression on splicing, expression of the host gene and cellular metabolism, while it raises questions to guide future inquiry.
A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of prucalopride in elderly patients with chronic constipation
Authors: Müller‐lissner S. , Rykx A. , Kerstens R. , Vandeplassche L.
Published: June 2010

Background Constipation affects up to 50% of the elderly; this study evaluates the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of the selective 5‐HT4agonist prucalopride in chronically constipated elderly patients.

Methods Three hundred chronic constipation patients aged ≥65 years were randomized to prucalopride (1, 2, or 4 mg once daily) or placebo for 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients with ≥3 spontaneous complete bowel movements (SCBM) per week. Secondary endpoints included the percentage with an increase of ≥1 SCBM per week, BM frequency, constipation‐related symptoms, quality of life (QoL), safety, and tolerability.

Key Results More patients achieved ≥3 SCBM per week with prucalopride than with placebo. This difference was largest and significant during the first week of 4 mg prucalopride (P ≤ 0.05). Significantly more patients in each prucalopride group achieved an increase of ≥1 SCBM per week from baselinevsplacebo (e.g. 60% with 1 mg prucalopridevs34% with placebo at week 4;P ≤ 0.05). More patients had improvement in PAC‐QOL satisfaction score of ≥1 with 1 mg prucalopride than with placebo (P ≤ 0.05); the same was true for PAC‐SYM stool symptoms (1 and 4 mg prucalopride;P ≤ 0.05). Treatment‐emergent adverse events were similar between groups: the most frequently reported with prucalopride were headache and gastrointestinal events. There were no clinically significant differences between prucalopride and placebo for vital signs, laboratory assessments, or ECG variables.

Conclusions & Inferences Prucalopride, in the dose‐range tested (1–4 mg once daily), has beneficial effects on bowel movements, symptoms, and QoL, and is safe and well‐tolerated in elderly patients with chronic constipation.
Diffusive fractionation complicates isotopic partitioning of autotrophic and heterotrophic sources of soil respiration
Authors: MOYES ANDREW B. , GAINES SARAH J. , SIEGWOLF ROLF T. W. , BOWLING DAVID R.
Published: June 2010

Carbon isotope ratios (δ13C) of heterotrophic and rhizospheric sources of soil respiration under deciduous trees were evaluated over two growing seasons. Fluxes and δ13C of soil respiratory CO2 on trenched and untrenched plots were calculated from closed chambers, profiles of soil CO2 mole fraction and δ13C and continuous open chambers. δ13C of respired CO2 and bulk carbon were measured from excised leaves and roots and sieved soil cores. Large diel variations (>5‰) in δ13C of soil respiration were observed when diel flux variability was large relative to average daily fluxes, independent of trenching. Soil gas transport modelling supported the conclusion that diel surface flux δ13C variation was driven by non‐steady state gas transport effects. Active roots were associated with high summertime soil respiration rates and around 1‰ enrichment in the daily average δ13C of the soil surface CO2 flux. Seasonal δ13C variability of about 4‰ (most enriched in summer) was observed on all plots and attributed to the heterotrophic CO2 source.
Interleukin‐27 as a Negative Regulator of Human Neutrophil Function
Authors: Li J. P. , Wu H. , Xing W. , Yang S. G. , Lu S. H. , Du W. T. , Yu J. X. , Chen F. , Zhang L. , Han Z. C.
Published: June 2010

Interleukin‐27 (IL‐27) is a novel cytokine of the IL‐6/12 family with a broad range of immune regulation properties, which has been considered as a potential therapeutic agent for immune diseases and cancers. However, little is known about the effect of IL‐27 on human neutrophils before its clinical administration. In this study, we investigated the effects of IL‐27 on human neutrophil functions including adhesion, reactive oxygen species (ROS)/cytotoxic granule components production, inflammatory cytokines production, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules expression and neutrophils’ survival. We showed that IL‐27 receptor complex, WSX‐1/TCCR and gp130, is constitutively expressed on human neutrophils. In vitro, IL‐27 suppressed neutrophil adhesion in response to fMLP, which might depend on the down‐regulation of Mac‐1. IL‐27 also suppressed lipopolysaccharide‐induced ROS production and attenuated cytotoxic granule components production in the cytoplasm of human neutrophils. In addition, IL‐27 enhanced the production of IL‐1β but not TNF‐α from neutrophils. However, IL‐27 failed to regulate the expression of MHC molecules and the survival of human neutrophils. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that IL‐27 mainly down‐modulates human neutrophil function, which might extend our understanding of the role of IL‐27 in the innate immune response.
Golimumab Therapy of Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Overview
Authors: Zidi I. , Bouaziz A. , Mnif W. , Bartegi A. , Al‐Hizab F. A. , Amor N. B.
Published: June 2010

Golimumab is a new approved humanized antibody for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This antibody belonging to biologic agents is raised against the pro‐inflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor‐α playing an essential role in the initiation of RA. To date, Golimumab administration for patients with RA, as indicated by USA Food and Drug Administration, is subcutaneous combined with methotrexate (MTX). Here, we have reviewed current literature with a focus on characteristics of Golimumab and also have exposed the clinical trials either using MTX or not using MTX. We have also highlighted the incoming clinical trials on Golimumab and have proposed some indications for the future studies based on a setting of clinical data and post‐marketing observational studies. These studies will advance rheumatologists’ decisions in the beginning of RA therapeutic interventions to insure the best outcomes for patients with RA and to improve their quality of life.
GIGANTEA is a component of a regulatory pathway determining wall ingrowth deposition in phloem parenchyma transfer cells of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Edwards Joshua , Martin Antony P. , Andriunas Felicity , Offler Christina E. , Patrick John W. , McCurdy David W.
Published: June 2010

Transfer cells are specialised transport cells containing invaginated wall ingrowths that generate an amplified plasma membrane surface area with high densities of transporter proteins. They trans‐differentiate from differentiated cells at sites at which enhanced rates of nutrient transport occur across apo/symplasmic boundaries. Despite their physiological importance, little is known of the molecular mechanisms regulating construction of their intricate wall ingrowths. We investigated the genetic control of wall ingrowth formation in phloem parenchyma transfer cells of leaf minor veins in Arabidopsis thaliana. Wall ingrowth development in these cells is substantially enhanced upon exposing plants to high‐light or cold treatments. A hierarchical bioinformatic analysis of public microarray datasets derived from the leaves of plants subjected to these treatments identified GIGANTEA (GI) as one of 46 genes that are commonly up‐regulated twofold or more under both high‐light and cold conditions. Histological analysis of the GI mutants gi‐2 and gi‐3 showed that the amount of phloem parenchyma containing wall ingrowths was reduced 15‐fold compared with wild‐type. Discrete papillate wall ingrowths were formed in gi‐2 plants but failed to develop into branched networks. Wall ingrowth development in gi‐2 was not rescued by exposing these plants to high‐light or cold conditions. In contrast, over‐expression of GI in the gi‐2 background restored wall ingrowth deposition to wild‐type levels. These results indicate that GI regulates the ongoing development of wall ingrowth networks at a point downstream of inputs from environmental signals.
Down's syndrome patients are less likely to develop cancer
Authors: Pussegoda KA
Published: June 2010

Down's syndrome suppression of tumour growth and the role of the calcineurin inhibitor DSCR1

Baek et al. (2009)

Nature 459:1126–1130
CHEK2, breast cancer, and the understanding of clinical utility
Authors: Robson M
Published: June 2010

Robson M. CHEK2, breast cancer, and the understanding of clinical utility.
Evaluation of a multi‐disease carrier screening programme in Ashkenazi Jewish high schools
Authors: Ioannou L , Massie J , Lewis S , Petrou V , Gason A , Metcalfe S , Aitken MA , Bankier A , Delatycki MB
Published: June 2010

Ioannou L, Massie J, Lewis S, Petrou V, Gason A, Metcalfe S, Aitken MA, Bankier A, Delatycki MB. Evaluation of a multi‐disease carrier screening programme in Ashkenazi Jewish high schools.

A screening programme for Tay Sachs disease (TSD) carrier status was introduced in high schools in Victoria, Australia in 1997, and was expanded to screen for six other genetic conditions common in the Ashkenazi Jewish population in 2008. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current programme and compare it with an evaluation of the programme when screening was offered for TSD alone. All students from Jewish high schools in Melbourne who offered the programme in 2009 were invited to participate in the study. A purpose‐designed questionnaire explored the following domains: knowledge (disease and genetics), reasons for screening, anxiety, and predicted negative feelings if found to be a carrier. Two hundred and seventy‐three students were offered screening, and 272 (99.6%) completed the questionnaire. Only two students chose not to have screening. Two hundred and seventy‐one students were in the penultimate year of high school (99.6%) and 222 were of Ashkenazi Jewish descent (82.5%). The main reasons for choosing screening were the desire to know carrier status and convenience. Knowledge level decreased and negative feelings increased in the current cohort compared to that when screening was offered for TSD alone. We conclude that the current programme is efficient, although increasing the number of conditions resulted in a decrease in knowledge and increase in predicted negative feelings if found to be a carrier of one of the conditions. This has implications for multi‐disease screening programmes that will increase in frequency as more conditions can be screened for and costs diminish.
Two distinct FSGS lesions caused by distinct etiology confirmed in a single patient in pre‐ and post‐transplantation
Authors: Ito Yumi , Nishi Shinichi , Imai Naofumi , Narita Ichiei , Gejyo Fumitake , Saito Kazuhide , Nakagawa Yuki , Tasaki Masayuki , Takahashi Kota
Published: June 2010

Ito Y, Nishi S, Imai N, Narita I, Gejyo F, Saito K, Nakagawa Y, Tasaki M, Takahashi K. Two distinct FSGS lesions caused by distinct etiology confirmed in a single patient in pre‐ and post‐transplantation. Clin Transplant 2010: 24 (Suppl. 22): 54–59. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  At the age of three yr, a male patient had surgical treatment for bilateral vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), and at the age of 19 yr, he developed nephrotic syndrome because of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). His renal function deteriorated despite treatment with temocapril and aspirin, and dialysis treatment was started when he was 19. After nine yr of dialysis, he received a living kidney transplantation from his 58‐yr‐old father, who had a long history of hypertension. A graft biopsy before perfusion showed moderate arteriolosclerosis. As urine protein increased to 2.15 g/d at 16 months after kidney transplantation, the graft biopsy was performed again. FSGS lesion with severe arteriosclerosis was recognized under light microscope, while the effacement of podocyte foot processes was seldom observed. The alteration of calcineurin inhibitor from cyclosporine to tacrolimus, combined with the new administration of angiotensin receptor antagonist (valsartan) and aldosterone receptor blocker, successfully decreased the amount of urine protein to 0.8 g/d within two wk. We considered that the present case showed two distinct types of FSGS lesions – one because of VUR and the other because of cyclosporine arteriolopathy – in each native kidney and transplanted kidney.
Analysis of preexisting baseline kidney lesions revealed by biopsy in living kidney donors: relationship with clinical parameters at the time of donation
Authors: Okamoto Masahiko , Koshino Katsuhiro , Nobori Shuji , Ushigome Hidetaka , Okajima Hideaki , Urasaki Koji , Yoshimura Norio
Published: June 2010

Okamoto M, Koshino K, Nobori S, Ushigome H, Okajima H, Urasaki K, Yoshimura N. Analysis of preexisting baseline kidney lesions revealed by biopsy in living kidney donors: relationship with clinical parameters at the time of donation. Clin Transplant 2010: 24 (Suppl. 22): 27–30. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Because the safety of living organ donors is essential, we have been performing donor kidney biopsy before donation in cases where decision‐making regarding suitability is marginal. To clarify the degree to which pathological change in the kidney can be predicted on the basis of clinical data obtained non‐invasively, we analyzed preexisting lesions found by one‐h biopsy in 76 living kidney donors, and compared the findings with clinical parameters at the time of donation. Pathological change in living kidney donors was correlated to some extent with predonation clinical parameters including age, serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate and presence of hypertension, while the lesions influenced by glucose intolerance were not completely correlated with the results of oral glucose tolerance test. A follow‐up study will be required to determine whether these mild histological findings at the time of donation influence long‐term outcome in the donor.
Findings of graft biopsy specimens within 90 days after ABO blood group incompatible living donor kidney transplantation compared with ABO‐identical and non‐identical transplantation
Authors: Ushigome Hidetaka , Okamoto Masahiko , Koshino Katsuhiro , Nobori Syuji , Okajima Hideaki , Masuzawa Naoko , Urasaki Koji , Yoshimura Norio
Published: June 2010

Ushigome H, Okamoto M, Koshino K, Nobori S, Okajima H, Masuzawa N, Urasaki K, Yoshimura N. Findings of graft biopsy specimens within 90 days after ABO blood group incompatible living donor kidney transplantation compared with ABO‐identical and non‐identical transplantation. Clin Transplant 2010: 24 (Suppl. 22): 16–21. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  As immunosuppressive therapy has advanced, we have markedly improved the outcome of ABO blood group incompatible living donor kidney transplantation. Consequently, graft survival at early phase after ABO‐incompatible transplantation has been favorable than ABO‐compatible transplantation in Japan. But in these days, it has been assumed that transplant glomerulopathy within one yr after ABO‐incompatible kidney transplantation might be significantly precipitated. That may be because of chronic, active antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR). We performed kidney graft biopsies at the early phase within 90 d after living donor kidney transplantation that involved the episode and protocol biopsies and studied findings of graft biopsy specimens when compared with ABO incompatible and compatible involving non‐identical and identical transplantations. In ABO‐incompatible transplant cases, the ratio occurring glomerulitis, especially severe injury of g 2–3, was significantly higher than that of identical and non‐identical transplant cases (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in t score, i score, ptc score and v score between three transplant groups. The cases occurring AMR were concordant with the cases recognized with severe glomerulitis. AMR was difficult to be diagnosed by C4d analysis in ABO‐incompatible transplant cases. Glomerular injury score, g score, may be considered as more significant and the injury should be cured thoroughly.
Outcomes of surgical repair of bile leaks and strictures after adult‐to‐adult living donor liver transplant
Authors: Melcher Marc L. , Freise Chris E. , Ascher Nancy L. , Roberts John P.
Published: June 2010

Melcher ML, Freise CE, Ascher NL, Roberts JP. Outcomes of surgical repair of bile leaks and strictures after adult‐to‐adult living donor liver transplant.  Clin Transplant 2010: 24: E230–E235. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  We sought to determine factors that predict the successful surgical repair of biliary complications after adult living donor liver transplantation (ALDLT).

Methods:  Records of 82 consecutive ALDLT right lobe recipients were reviewed. Operations were performed on 19 recipients for biliary complications. Post‐operative biliary complications were analyzed. Fisher’s exact test was used to identify variables that correlated with successful surgical repair.

Results:  A total of 29 recipients had biliary complications, of which 19 had a surgical repair. The five recipients, operated on for a stricture without history of leaks, did not develop further complications. However, nine of 14 with a history of a leak developed further complications after surgical repair (p‐value = 0.044). All five who presented with a biliary complication more than 100 d after transplant had successful surgical repair; however, nine out of 13 who presented within 57 d had additional complications after repair.

Conclusions:  Operations for strictures after ALDLT are more successful than operations for leaks. Recipients with isolated biliary strictures after ALDLT can be managed surgically; however, recipients with history of a leak often require additional interventions after surgical repair.
Female mate preferences inDrosophila simulans: evolution and costs
Authors: SHARMA M. D. , TREGENZA T. , HOSKEN D. J.
Published: June 2010

Female mate preference is central to sexual selection, and all indirect benefit models require that there is genetic variation in female preference. This has rarely been tested however, with relatively few studies documenting heritable variation in female preference and even fewer that have directly selected on mate preference to unequivocally show that it can evolve. Additionally, costs of mate preference are poorly understood even though these have implications for preference evolution. We selected on female preference forebony‐males in replicateDrosophila simulanslines, and generated a rapid evolutionary response in both replicates, with the proportion of females mating withebony‐males increasing from approximately 5% to 30% after five generations of selection. This increase was independent of changes inebony‐males as only females were included in our selection regime. We could detect no cost to mate preference itself other than that associated with the fitness consequences of mating withebonymales.
Plants and fungi in the era of heterogeneous plasma membranes*
Authors: Opekarová M. , Malinsky J. , Tanner W.
Published: June 2010

Examples from yeast and plant cells are described that show that their plasma membrane is laterally compartmented. Distinct lateral domains encompassing both specific lipids and integral proteins coexist within the plane of the plasma membrane. The compartments are either spatially stable and include distinct sets of proteins, or they are transiently formed to accomplish diverse functions. They are not related to lipid rafts or their clusters, as defined for mammalian cells. This review summarises only well‐documented compartments of plasma membranes from plants and fungi, which have been recognised using microscopic approaches. In several cases, physiological functions of the membrane compartmentation are revealed.
Social Learning in the Caracara Chimango,Milvago chimango(Aves: Falconiformes): an Age Comparison
Authors: Biondi L. M. , García G. O. , Bó M. S. , Vassallo A. I.
Published: June 2010

Milvago chimangois a gregarious raptor showing great ecological plasticity. Their ability to explore new resources has allowed them to survive in areas with increasing human modification. In this study, we evaluated the social learning ability in wild‐caught individuals ofM. chimango. In particular, we tested whether an ‘observer’ individual could improve the acquisition of a novel behaviour by watching a ‘demonstrator,’ and we examined the effects of age of both observers and demonstrators on social learning. We measured the ability of 18 observers to open an opaque Plexiglas box containing food, and we compared their performance to that of 10 control birds who did not watch a demonstrator solve the task. Prior to watching a demonstrator, only two of the observers and two of the control birds were able to open the box. After watching a demonstrator, 67% of observers were able to open the box, outperforming control birds in speed and success. Juvenile observers were more successful and faster than adults at contacting and opening the box. The age of the demonstrator did not influence the observers’ likelihood of success. These results showed thatM. chimangoare able to learn a box‐opening task with a hidden food reward by observing the behaviour of a conspecific and that this behaviour persisted over several days. Social learning ability inM. chimangomight allow certain behavioural patterns, such as those related to novel resource acquisition in modified environments, to be socially transmitted among individuals in a population.
Use of SNP genotyping to determine pedigree and breed composition of dairy cattle in Kenya
Authors: Gorbach D.M. , Makgahlela M.L. , Reecy J.M. , Kemp S.J. , Baltenweck I. , Ouma R. , Mwai O. , Marshall K. , Murdoch B. , Moore S. , Rothschild M.F.
Published: June 2010

High levels of inbreeding in East African dairy cattle are a potential concern because of use of a limited range of imported germplasm coupled with strong selection, especially by disease, and sparse performance recording. To address this, genetic relationships and breed composition in an admixed population of Kenyan dairy cattle were estimated by means of a 50K SNP scan. Genomic DNA from 3 worldwide Holstein and 20 Kenyan bulls, 71 putative cow‐calf pairs, 25 cows from a large ranch and 5 other Kenyan animals were genotyped for 37 238 informative SNPs. Sires were predicted and 89% of putative dam‐calf relationships were supported by genotype data. Animals were clustered with the HapMap population using Structure software to assess breed composition. Cows from a large ranch primarily clustered with Holsteins, while animals from smaller farms were generally crosses between Holstein and Guernsey. Coefficients of relatedness were estimated and showed evidence of heavy use of one AI bull. We conclude that little native germplasm exists within the genotyped populations and mostly European ancestry remains.
Fine mapping and detection of the causative mutation underlying Quantitative Trait Loci
Authors: Uleberg E. , Meuwissen T.H.E.
Published: June 2010

The effect on power and precision of including the causative SNP amongst the investigated markers in Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) mapping experiments was investigated. Three fine mapping methods were tested to see which was most efficient in finding the causative mutation: combined linkage and linkage disequilibrium mapping (LLD); association mapping (MARK); a combination of LLD and association mapping (LLDMARK). Two simulated data sets were analysed: in one set, the causative SNP was included amongst the markers, while in the other set the causative SNP was masked between markers. Including the causative SNP amongst the markers increased both precision and power in the analyses. For the LLD method the number of correctly positioned QTL increased from 17 for the analysis without the causative SNP to 77 for the analysis including the causative SNP. The likelihood of the data analysis increased from 3.4 to 13.3 likelihood units for the MARK method when the causative SNP was included. When the causative SNP was masked between the analysed markers, the LLD method was most efficient in detecting the correct QTL position, while the MARK method was most efficient when the causative SNP was included as a marker in the analysis. The LLDMARK method, combining association mapping and LLD, assumes a QTL as the null hypothesis (using LLD method) and tests whether the ‘putative causative SNP’ explains significantly more variance than a QTL in the region. Thus, if the putative causative SNP does not only give an Identical‐By‐Descent (IBD) signal, but also an Alike‐In‐State (AIS) signal, LLDMARK gives a positive likelihood ratio. LLDMARK detected less than half as many causative SNPs as the other methods, and also had a relatively high false discovery rate when the QTL effect was large. LLDMARK may however be more robust against spurious associations, because the regional IBD is largely corrected for by fitting a QTL effect in the null hypothesis model.
Electrophysiological responses of Batocera horsfieldi (Hope) adults to plant volatiles
Authors: Zhuge P.‐P. , Luo S.‐L. , Wang M.‐Q. , Zhang G.
Published: June 2010

The olfactory stimuli from the maturation feeding‐plant, Rosa multiflora Thunb., and larval‐host plant, Populus deltoides, of the longhorned beetle, Batocera horsfieldi (Hope), were investigated by using TCT‐GC/MS (Thermal desorption and cold trap, and GC/MS) and electroantennogram recordings (EAG). A total of 20 plant compounds were identified from plant headspace volatile, including aliphatic, aromatic and terpenoid compounds. Five compounds were common to both plants. Eight compounds eliciting strong EAG response were E‐3‐hexenyl acetate, 3‐carene, 1‐penten‐3‐ol, 3‐pentanol, Z‐2‐penten‐1‐ol, hexanal and E‐2‐hexenal. Female and male B. horsfieldi exhibited broad overlap in their EAG responses to individual plant odour, and there was no clear pattern of difference between responses of female and male antennae to different compounds. Mating status had little effect on the EAG responses of females.
Single Layer Centrifugation of Stallion Spermatozoa through Androcoll™‐E does not Adversely Affect their Capacitation‐Like Status, as Measured by CTC Staining
Authors: Bergqvist A‐S , Johannisson A , Bäckgren L , Dalin A‐M , Rodriguez‐Martinez H , Morrell JM
Published: June 2010

Contents

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of single layer centrifugation (SLC) and subsequent cold storage on stallion sperm capacitation‐like status and acrosome reaction. Three stallions were included in the study, with three ejaculates per stallion. The samples were examined 4, 24 and 72 h after collection, extension and SLC, with storage at 6°C. Sperm capacitation‐like status was investigated using the fluorescent dye chlortetracycline (CTC). There was no difference in capacitation‐like status between colloid‐selected and non‐selected spermatozoa. Sperm motility decreased significantly during cold storage, whereas the proportion of apparently capacitated spermatozoa increased. There was no change in the proportion of acrosome‐reacted spermatozoa. In conclusion, SLC through Androcoll™‐E does not adversely affect the capacitation‐like status of stallion spermatozoa, although it did increase with time during cold storage.
Fine Structures of Embryonic Discs of In Vivo Post‐hatching Porcine Blastocysts at the Pre‐Primitive Streak Stage
Authors: Xia P , Liu Z , Qin P
Published: June 2010

Contents

To date, reports about the ultrastructure of porcine embryonic discs have not shown details of the primitive streak. The main objective of this study was to examine the ultrastructure of interior and exterior embryonic discs in porcine in vivo blastocysts with diameters of 1, 3 and 9 mm using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. For the first time, we revealed the ultrastructure of the unusual group of cells in the pre‐primitive streak area of embryonic discs. The cells were 1–2 μm in diameter, had high electron density and contained abundant, free ribosomes and endoplasmic reticulum. These primitive streak cells could represent original embryonic stem cells or represent a stem cell niche. The results also showed three types of cells on the exterior surface of the embryonic discs. Moreover, our results provided morphological evidence of condensed nuclei in the smooth cells on the surface of the embryonic disc.
Protein Composition of Seminal Plasma in Fractionated Stallion Ejaculates
Authors: Kareskoski AM , Rivera del Alamo MM , Güvenc K , Reilas T , Calvete JJ , Rodriguez‐Martinez H , Andersson M , Katila T
Published: June 2010

Contents

Seminal plasma (SP) contains several types of compounds derived from the epididymides and accessory glands. The aim of this study was to examine the protein composition of different ejaculate fractions. Trial I: fractionated ejaculates were collected from two normal and two subfertile stallions. Samples containing pre‐sperm fluid and the first sperm‐rich jets (HIGH‐1), the main sperm‐rich portion (HIGH‐2), the jets with low sperm concentrations (LOW), and a combined whole‐ejaculate (WE) sample was centrifuged, and the SP was filtered and frozen. A part of each SP sample was stored (5°C, 24 h) with spermatozoa from HIGH‐2 and skim milk extender. Sperm motility was evaluated after storage in extender mixed with the stallion’s own SP or SP from one of the other stallions (sperm from a normal stallion stored in SP from a subfertile stallion and vice versa). Protein composition was analysed using reverse‐phase liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC), N‐terminal sequencing and mass spectrometry. The area‐under‐the‐curve (AUC) was used for quantitative comparison of proteins within fractions. Trial II: semen samples were collected from seven stallions. Fractions with the highest (HIGH) and lowest (LOW) sperm concentrations and WE samples were examined using SDS‐PAGE and densitometry. No significant differences emerged between fractions in the AUC‐values of the Horse Seminal Protein‐1 (HSP‐1) and HSP‐2 peaks, or the peak containing HSP‐3 and HSP‐4 (HSP‐3/4). Levels of HSP‐1, HSP‐2 and HSP‐3/4 were not significantly correlated with total sperm motility, progressive sperm motility or average path velocity after storage. Significant differences between ejaculate fractions in the amount of different protein groups present in SP were not found in Trial I; but in Trial II, the proteins in the 60–70 kDa range were more abundant in LOW than in HIGH and WE, indicating that this band contained proteins derived mainly from the seminal vesicles, which produce most of the SP in LOW.
Epidemiological features of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in Taiwan: A national study 1996–2004
Authors: Tiao Mao‐Meng , Tsai Shang‐Shyue , Kuo Hsin‐Wei , Yang Chun‐Yuh
Published: June 2010

Background and Aim:  The incidence of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) varies among different countries and is supposed to be lower in Asian countries than in Western countries. However, the incidence of IHPS in Taiwan has not been well investigated.

Methods:  The National Health Insurance (NHI) program was implemented in Taiwan in 1995 and covers most of the population (>99%). We used the NHI database to investigate the epidemiological features of IHPS in Taiwan and to compare the data with that of other countries.

Results:  We identified 962 new IHPS cases during the period from 1996 to 2004. The overall incidence of IHPS was 0.39 (0.34–0.50) cases per 1000 live births. The estimation was 0.39–0.59 per 1000 live births after adjustment for the misdiagnosis rate. The peak incidence (0.58 per 1000 live births) occurred in winter in 1999. Rates were consistently higher in male subjects. The 1‐year survival rate was not significantly different in the patients receiving pyloromyotomy in medical centers, regional hospitals, and district hospitals (P = 0.389).

Conclusions:  Taiwan had the second lowest incidence of IHPS reported in the medical literature. IHPS patients can be successfully treated in district and general hospitals with good prognosis.
Endoscopic band ligation followed by sclerotherapy: Is it superior to sclerotherapy in children with extrahepatic portal venous obstruction?
Authors: Poddar Ujjal , Bhatnagar Shrish , Yachha Surender K
Published: June 2010

Background and Aim:  There is scarcity of data about children on a combination of endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) and endoscopic sclerotherapy (EST). We assessed the efficacy of EVL followed by EST and EST alone in children with extrahepatic portal venous obstruction (EHPVO).

Methods:  From January 2000 to March 2007, 186 consecutive children (mean age 6.3 ± 4.2 years, 82% boys) with EHPVO with variceal bleeding were included. EVL followed by EST (Group I, n = 101) or EST alone (Group II, n = 60) was carried out at 3‐weekly intervals until eradication. Surveillance endoscopy was done at 3 to 6‐monthly intervals. In all cases, the number of sessions required to eradicate the esophageal varices, the volume of sclerosant, the complications and the endoscopic outcome on follow up were recorded.

Results:  Eradication was achieved in 158 of 161 (98%) children and 25 were lost to follow up. Group I required significantly fewer sessions (5.2 ± 1.8 vs 6.8 ± 2.8, P < 0.005), less sclerosant (13 ± 8.2 mL vs 30 ± 20 mL, P < 0.001) and had fewer complications (7% vs 28%, P < 0.001) as compared with Group II. On follow up (33 ± 17.6 months in Group I and 43 ± 16.7 months in Group II), there was a significant increase in the prevalence of portal hypertensive gastropathy as well as isolated gastric varices in both the groups. However, the prevalence of gastroesophageal varices decreased.

Conclusions:  EVL followed by EST is better than EST alone in children with EHPVO as it requires fewer sessions and has fewer complications. However, following eradication, evolution of gastric varices and portal hypertensive gastropathy was similar in the two groups.
Clinical results of observation of the upper gastrointestinal tract by transgastrostomic endoscopy using an ultrathin endoscope
Authors: Imaeda Hiroyuki , Hosoe Naoki , Nakamizo Hiromasa , Kashiwagi Kazuhiro , Suzuki Hidekazu , Saito Yoshimasa , Suganuma Kazuhiro , Ida Yosuke , Matsuzaki Juntaro , Iwasaki Eisuke , Iwao Yasushi , Ogata Haruhiko , Hibi Toshifumi
Published: June 2010

Background and Aim:  Esophagogastroduodenoscopy through the oral cavity of patients who have undergone percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) causes some distress and puts these patients at risk of aspiration pneumonia. The aim of this study was to evaluate results for the upper gastrointestinal tract by transgastrostomic endoscopy using an ultrathin endoscope.

Methods:  The study subjects were 43 patients, who underwent exchange of a PEG button or tube, 20‐French or more in diameter. After PEG buttons or tubes were extracted from the gastrostomy tract, an ultrathin endoscope was inserted through the gastrostomy tract. The stomach and the duodenal bulb were observed and the esophagus was observed in retrograde passage. A new PEG button or tube was then inserted. The rate of successful insertion into the esophagus and duodenal bulb, the observation of the gastrostomy site in retroversion in the stomach, and the endoscopic findings were analyzed.

Results:  Ninety‐nine examinations were carried out. The esophagus could be observed in 95 (96.0%), the duodenum in 92 (92.9%) and the gastrostomy site in the stomach in all. Gastric polyps were detected in four patients, gastric erosions in two, reflux esophagitis in two, polypoid lesion at the gastrostomy tract in two, gastric ulcer scar in one, duodenal ulcer scar in one, early gastric cancer in one and recurrent esophageal cancer in one. Neither discomfort nor complications occurred during transgastrostomic endoscopy.

Conclusions:  Observation of the upper gastrointestinal tract by transgastrostomic endoscopy using an ultrathin endoscope during a gastrostomy button or tube replacement may be useful and safe.