bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Medicago truncatula N5 Gene Encoding a Root-Specific Lipid Transfer Protein Is Required for the Symbiotic Interaction with Sinorhizobium meliloti
Authors: Pii Youry , Astegno Alessandra , Peroni Elisa , Zaccardelli Massimo , Pandolfini Tiziana , Crimi Massimo
Published: November 2009

The Medicago truncatula N5 gene is induced in roots after Sinorhizobium meliloti infection and it codes for a putative lipid transfer protein (LTP), a family of plant small proteins capable of binding and transferring lipids between membranes in vitro. Various biological roles for plant LTP in vivo have been proposed, including defense against pathogens and modulation of plant development. The aim of this study was to shed light on the role of MtN5 in the symbiotic interaction between M. truncatula and S. meliloti. MtN5 cDNA was cloned and the mature MtN5 protein expressed in Escherichia coli. The lipid binding capacity and antimicrobial activity of the recombinant MtN5 protein were tested in vitro. MtN5 showed the capacity to bind lysophospholipids and to inhibit M. truncatula pathogens and symbiont growth in vitro. Furthermore, MtN5 was upregulated in roots after infection with either the fungal pathogen Fusarium semitectum or the symbiont S. meliloti. Upon S. meliloti infection, MtN5 was induced starting from 1 day after inoculation (dpi). It reached the highest concentration at 3 dpi and it was localized in the mature nodules. MtN5-silenced roots were impaired in nodulation, showing a 50% of reduction in the number of nodules compared with control roots. On the other hand, transgenic roots overexpressing MtN5 developed threefold more nodules with respect to control roots. Here, we demonstrate that MtN5 possesses biochemical features typical of LTP and that it is required for the successful symbiotic association between M. truncatula and S. meliloti.
Confirmation of the Sequence of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ and Assessment of Microbial Diversity in Huanglongbing-Infected Citrus Phloem Using a Metagenomic Approach
Authors: Tyler Heather L. , Roesch Luiz F. W. , Gowda Siddarame , Dawson William O. , Triplett Eric W.
Published: November 2009

The citrus disease Huanglongbing (HLB) is highly destructive in many citrus-growing regions of the world. The putative causal agent of this disease, ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’, is difficult to culture, and Koch's postulates have not yet been fulfilled. As a result, efforts have focused on obtaining the genome sequence of ‘Ca. L. asiaticus’ in order to give insight on the physiology of this organism. In this work, three next-generation high-throughput sequencing platforms, 454, Solexa, and SOLiD, were used to obtain metagenomic DNA sequences from phloem tissue of Florida citrus trees infected with HLB. A culture-independent, polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-independent analysis of 16S ribosomal RNA sequences showed that the only bacterium present within the phloem metagenome was ‘Ca L. asiaticus’. No viral or viroid sequences were identified within the metagenome. By reference assembly, the phloem metagenome contained sequences that provided 26-fold coverage of the ‘Ca. L. asiaticus’ contigs in GenBank. By the same approach, phloem metagenomic data yielded less than 0.2-fold coverage of five other alphaproteobacterial genomes. Thus, phloem metagenomic DNA provided a PCR-independent means of verifying the presence of ‘Ca L. asiaticus’ in infected tissue and strongly suggests that no other disease agent was present in phloem. Analysis of these metagenomic data suggest that this approach has a detection limit of one ‘Ca. Liberibacter’ cell for every 52 phloem cells. The phloem sample sequenced here is estimated to have contained 1.7 ‘Ca. Liberibacter’ cells per phloem cell.
A theoretical model of the explosive fragmentation of vesicular magma
Authors: Fowler A. C. , Scheu Bettina , Lee W. T. , McGuinness M. J.
Published: November 2009

Recent experimental work has shown that, when a vertical column of rock under large pressure is suddenly depressurized, the column can ‘explode’ in a structured and repeatable way. The observations show that a sequence of horizontal fractures forms from the top down, and the resulting blocks are lifted off and ejected. The blocks can suffer secondary internal fractures. This experiment provides a framework for understanding the way in which catastrophic explosion can occur, and is motivated by the corresponding phenomenon of magmatic explosion during Vulcanian eruptions. We build a theoretical model to describe these results, and show that it is capable of describing both the primary sequence of fracturing and the secondary intrablock fracturing. The model allows us to suggest a practical criterion for when such explosions occur: firstly, the initial confining pressure must exceed the yield stress of the rock, and, secondly, the diffusion of the gas by porous flow must be sufficiently slow that a large excess pore pressure is built up. This will be the case if the rock permeability is small enough.
Exploration of beneficial and deleterious effects of inflammation in stroke: dynamics of inflammation cells
Authors: Lelekov-Boissard Taïssia , Chapuisat Guillemette , Boissel Jean-Pierre , Grenier Emmanuel , Dronne Marie-Aimée
Published: November 2009

The inflammatory process during stroke consists of activation of resident brain microglia and recruitment of leucocytes, namely neutrophils and monocytes/macrophages. During inflammation, microglial cells, neutrophils and macrophages secrete inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and phagocytize dead cells. The recruitment of blood cells (neutrophils and macrophages) is mediated by the leucocyte–endothelium interactions and more specifically by cell adhesion molecules.

A mathematical model is proposed to represent the dynamics of various brain cells and of immune cells (neutrophils and macrophages). This model is based on a set of six ordinary differential equations and explores the beneficial and deleterious effects of inflammation, respectively phagocytosis by immune cells and the release of pro-inflammatory mediators and nitric oxide (NO).

The results of our simulations are qualitatively consistent with those observed in experiments
in vivo
and would suggest that the increase of phagocytosis could contribute to the increase of the percentage of living cells. The inhibition of the production of cytokines and NO and the blocking of neutrophil and macrophage infiltration into the brain parenchyma led also to the improvement of brain cell survival.

This approach may help to explore the respective contributions of the beneficial and deleterious roles of the inflammatory process in stroke, and to study various therapeutic strategies in order to reduce stroke damage.
DNA methylation programming and reprogramming in primate embryonic stem cells
Authors: Cohen Netta Mendelson , Dighe Vikas , Landan Gilad , Reynisdóttir Sigrún , Palsson Arnar , Mitalipov Shoukhrat , Tanay Amos
Published: November 2009

DNA methylation is an important epigenetic mechanism, affecting normal development and playing a key role in reprogramming epigenomes during stem cell derivation. Here we report on DNA methylation patterns in native monkey embryonic stem cells (ESCs), fibroblasts, and ESCs generated through somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), identifying and comparing epigenome programming and reprogramming. We characterize hundreds of regions that are hyper- or hypomethylated in fibroblasts compared to native ESCs and show that these are conserved in human cells and tissues. Remarkably, the vast majority of these regions are reprogrammed in SCNT ESCs, leading to almost perfect correlation between the epigenomic profiles of the native and reprogrammed lines. At least 58% of these changes are correlated in cis to transcription changes, Polycomb Repressive Complex-2 occupancy, or binding by the CTCF insulator. We also show that while epigenomic reprogramming is extensive and globally accurate, the efficiency of adding and stripping DNA methylation during reprogramming is regionally variable. In several cases, this variability results in regions that remain methylated in a fibroblast-like pattern even after reprogramming.
A new mastacembelid species from Lake Tanganyika: a case of complex evolutionary history
Authors: Vreven E. J. , Snoeks J.
Published: November 2009

A detailed morphometric study of 123 specimens identified asMastacembelus albomaculatusand the six syntypes ofM. tanganicaewas undertaken. On each specimen, 27 morphometric measurements and 12 meristics were taken. The type series ofM. tanganicaecontains more than one species, with four specimens attributed to a new speciesM. reygelisp. nov. A redescription ofM. albomaculatusand a description of the new species are provided. Both species are endemic to the northern and central part of Lake Tanganyika. They can be distinguished based on the number of caudal vertebrae [47–52 (median 49) inM. albomaculatus v.42–46 (44) inM. reygelisp. nov.], the total number of vertebrae [85–90 (88)v.78–83 (81)] and the distance from the snout to the last externally visible dorsal spine (S‐LDS) [61·8–67·0 (mean 64·0)v. 66·6–71·5 (68·6)%LS]. In addition, intermediate specimens and populations betweenM. albomaculatusandM. reygeliwere discovered from several parts of the lake, but mainly from the southern part. The latter intermediate populations were provisionally identified as introgressed populations.
A one‐year investigation of the relationship between serum GH levels and the growth of F4 transgenic and non‐transgenic common carp Cyprinus carpio
Authors: Zhong S. , Wang Y.‐P. , Pei D.‐S. , Luo D.‐J. , Liao L.‐J. , Zhu Z.‐Y.
Published: November 2009

It has been demonstrated that growth hormone (GH) transgenic fish often posses a trait for fast growth. Here, we investigated the growth of F4‘all‐fish’ GH transgenic carp Cyprinus carpio and their serum GH levels for a year. The results showed that F4 all‐fish GH transgenic carp were significantly larger in body mass (c. two‐fold, P < 0·001) and body length (c. 1·3 fold, P < 0·001), compared with the non‐transgenic group. The discrepancy of serum GH levels between the transgenic carp group and control group is 54 fold, when the water temperature was 12–34° C. When the water temperature decreased to 3·5° C in January, the discrepancy was 256 fold. The serum GH level of the transgenic group was relatively constant, while that of control varied greatly based on month and water temperature. The changes of growth rates between the transgenic group and the control group were similar for a year. Taken together, the results indicated that F4 all‐fish GH transgenic carp had not only higher and constant serum GH levels but also a significant fast‐growing effect, compared with the control. To our knowledge, this is the first report on a one‐year investigation of growth trait and serum growth hormone level in F4 all‐fish GH transgenic carp.
Monitoring of haemostasis in liver transplantation: comparison of laboratory based and point of care tests
Authors: Herbstreit F. , Winter E. M. , Peters J. , Hartmann M.
Published: November 2009

During orthotopic liver transplanatation haemostasis is often disturbed and coagulation monitoring is mandatory. We compared the results obtained by whole blood prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time assays (Hemochron®) and thrombelastometry (ROTEM® 05) with laboratory coagulation assays (prothrombin time, activated partial prothrombin time, fibrinogen, and platelet count) in samples obtained during orthotopic liver transplantations. Determination of prothrombin time and activated partial prothrombin time using the Hemochron device showed good correlation with laboratory coagulation assays (r = 0.912, p < 0.001, and r = 0.794, p < 0.001). Maximum clot firmness as determined by thrombelastometry correlated well with platelet count (r = 0.779, p < 0.001) and, to a lesser degree, with fibrinogen concentration (r = 0.590, p < 0.001). During orthotopic liver transplantation, prothrombin time and activated partial prothrombin time can be reliably determined by the Hemochron device, while thrombelastometry allows assessment of platelet count and fibrinogen concentration.
Fusion of PDGFRB to two distinct loci at 3p21 and a third at 12q13 in imatinib‐responsive myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Hidalgo‐Curtis Claire , Apperley Jane F. , Stark Anthony , Jeng Michael , Gotlib Jason , Chase Andrew , Cross Nicholas C. P. , Grand Francis H.
Published: November 2009

We identified four patients who presented with BCR‐ABL1 negative myeloproliferative neoplasms and cytogenetically visible abnormalities of chromosome band 5q31‐35. Fluorescence in situ hybridization indicated that the platelet‐derived growth factor receptor β gene (PDGFRB) was disrupted in all four cases and 5′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends identified in‐frame mRNA fusions between PDGFRB and WDR48 (3p21), GOLGA4 (3p21) and BIN2 (12q13). Strikingly, all three genes encode proteins involving intracellular trafficking. Imatinib, a known inhibitor of PDGFRβ, selectively blocked the growth of t(3;5) myeloid colonies and produced clinically significant responses in all patients. We conclude that PDGFRB fuses to diverse partner genes in atypical myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Although very rare, identification of these fusions is critical for proper management of affected individuals.
Component‐resolved diagnosis from latex allergy by microarray
Authors: Ebo D. G. , Hagendorens M. M. , De Knop K. J. , Verweij M. M. , Bridts C. H. , De Clerck L. S. , Stevens W. J.
Published: November 2009

Background
A positive specific IgE (sIgE) result for latex does not always mirror the clinical situation and is frequently found in individuals without overt latex allergy.

Objective
We sought to investigate the potential of component‐resolved diagnosis (CRD) of latex allergy by microarray and to assess whether the technique allows discriminating genuine allergy from asymptomatic sensitization.

Methods
Twenty‐six healthy controls without a history of latex allergy with a negative latex sIgE and skin test, 22 latex‐allergic patients with a compelling history of latex allergy with a positive latex sIgE and prick test and 20 latex‐sensitized individuals with a frequent asymptomatic exposure to natural rubber latex‐containing devices with a negative latex skin test but a positive sIgE were also included. CRD was performed with the ImmunoCAP ISAC microarray and traditional singleplexed ImmunoCAP.

Results
In all patients, the diagnosis of latex allergy could be established by the combination of recombinant latex components present on the microarray (Hev b 1, Hev b 3, Hev b 5 and Hev b 6.02). Over three‐quarters of our patients were sensitized for Hev b 5 and/or Hev b 6.02. Some patients also displayed reactivity for Hev b 1 and/or Hev b 3. In contrast, none of the individuals sensitized to natural rubber latex or control individuals demonstrated IgE reactivity for rHev b 1, rHev b 3, rHev b 5 or rHev b 6.02. Three‐quarters of the patients sensitized to latex displayed a positive microarray result for recombinant latex profilin (rHev b 8). In contrast to the results obtained by traditional ImmunoCAP for bromelain, almost no sensitization for cross‐reactive carbohydrates was demonstrated by bromelain spotted on the microarray. CRD by traditional singleplexed ImmunoCAP showed highly comparable results.

Conclusion
CRD by microarray is a reliable tool for diagnosing latex allergy. In addition, the technique allows discrimination between genuine allergy and sensitization. CRD by microarray can improve the diagnosis of IgE‐mediated latex allergy by discriminating between genuine allergy and sensitization. CRD by microarray is a reliable tool to diagnose latex allergy. In addition, the technique allows discrimination between a genuine allergy and simple sensitization.

Cite this as: D. G. Ebo, M. M. Hagendorens, K. J. De Knop, M. M. Verweij, C. H. Bridts, L. S. De Clerck and W. J. Stevens, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 348– 358.
Evaluation of the radiopacity of calcium silicate cements containing different radiopacifiers
Authors: Camilleri J. , Gandolfi M. G.
Published: November 2009

Aim  To identify the suitable ratio of alternative radiopacifiers to impart the necessary radiopacity to calcium silicate cements (CSC) and assess the purity of the radiopacifying agents.

Methodology  Alternative radiopacifying materials for incorporation into CSC included barium sulphate, titanium oxide, zinc oxide, gold powder and silver/tin alloy. The chemical composition of the alternative radipacifying materials and bismuth oxide, which is used in mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), was determined using energy dispersive X‐ray analysis. In addition, using an aluminium step‐wedge and densitometer, the radiopacity of each material was evaluated as recommended by international standards. The optical density was compared with the relevant thickness of aluminium (Al). A commercial MTA and CSC were used as controls. Statistical analysis comparing the radiodensity of the different cements to MTA was performed using anova with P = 0.05 and post hoc Tukey test.

Results  All percentage replacements of bismuth oxide, gold and silver–tin alloy powder, and the 25% and 30% replacements with barium sulphate and zinc oxide had radiopacities greater than 3 mm thickness of aluminium (Al) recommended by ISO 6876 (2002). The 25% replacement of cement with gold powder and 20% replacement of cement with silver/tin alloy powder exhibited radiopacity values of 8.04 mm Al and 7.52 mm Al, respectively, similar to MTA (P > 0.05). The cement replaced with 20% bismuth oxide showed a radiopacity of 6.83 mm Al, lower than MTA (P = 0.003).

Conclusions  Silver/tin alloy and gold powder imparted the necessary radiopacity to a calcium silicate‐based cement. Barium sulphate was also a suitable radiopacifier together with a lower concentration of silver/tin alloy and gold powder that achieved the radiodensity recommended by ISO 6876. Further research is required to investigate the broader properties of the calcium silicate‐based cement with the different radiopacifiers.
Effect of restorations on pulpal blood flow in molars measured by laser Doppler flowmetry
Authors: Chandler N. P. , Pitt Ford T. R. , Monteith B. D.
Published: November 2009

Aim  To: (i) compare laser Doppler pulpal blood flow (PBF) signals from restored and unrestored first molar teeth, (ii) investigate PBF in teeth with large and small restorations, and (iii) to relate PBF to pulp chamber dimensions on radiographs.

Methodology  Bitewing radiographs of young adults with restored first molars were obtained and pulp chamber dimensions measured. Subjects were divided into 2 groups: group A with a restored tooth and an unrestored contralateral (43 subjects) and group B, those with a molar with a small (usually occlusal) restoration whilst the contralateral tooth had an extensive occlusal restoration (or restorations) or restored proximal surface(s) and/or cuspal overlay (31 subjects). The 148 teeth responded to electric pulp testing, and their PBF was recorded using a laser Doppler flowmeter. Data were analysed using Student’s t‐test.

Results  In group A the PBF in the restored teeth was significantly lower than in unrestored contralaterals (P = 0.028) and the total pulp chamber area and that in the clinical crown were smaller (P = 0.039 and 0.021 respectively). The group B molars with large restorations had significantly lower PBF than contralaterals with small restorations (P = 0.001), and their total pulp chamber area and pulp chamber width at cervix were reduced significantly (P = 0.003 and 0.032 respectively).

Conclusions  In molars the size of the pulp chamber was influenced by the presence of restorations and the PBF was reduced when restorations were present. Size and extent of restorations had a significant effect on PBF.
Impact of waist circumference versus adiponectin level on subclinical atherosclerosis
Authors: Holewijn S. , Den Heijer M. , Van Tits L. J. , Swinkels D. W. , Stalenhoef A. F. H. , De Graaf J.
Published: November 2009

Abstract.  Holewijn S, den Heijer M, van Tits LJ, Swinkels DW, Stalenhoef AFH, de Graaf J (Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands). Impact of waist circumference versus adiponectin level on subclinical atherosclerosis. A cross‐sectional analysis in a sample from the general population. J Intern Med 2010; 267:588–598.

Objective.  Waist circumference is a clinical marker of obesity and an established risk factor for cardiovascular (CV) disease. Adiponectin, an adipocyte‐derived hormone and new biomarker of obesity, was recently proposed as the missing link between obesity and increased cardiovascular risk. We evaluated waist and adiponectin in a middle‐aged population‐based cohort to compare the impact of both obesity‐markers on subclinical atherosclerosis, in relation to other CV risk factors.

Design, setting & subjects.  Seven noninvasive measurements of atherosclerosis (NIMA), as surrogate markers of (subclinical) atherosclerosis, were determined in 1517 participants of the Nijmegen Biomedical Study, aged 50–70 years, who were drawn from the Dutch community.

Results.  Both men and women with a high waist (M >104 cm; F >95 cm) showed increased pulse wave velocity (PWV) (M: +9.4%; F: +8.3%) and thicker intima‐media thickness (IMT) (M: +7.3%; F: +4.3%) and women also showed increased plaque thickness (+16.6%). After adjustment for other CV risk factors both men and women showed increased IMT (M: +4.8%; F: +2.8%) and men also showed increased PWV (+9.6%). Both men and women with a low adiponectin level (M <2.2 mg L−1; F <3.5 mg L−1) showed a decreased ankle‐brachial index after exercise (M: −9.5%; F: −3.9%) and increased IMT (M: +3.7%; F: +3.6%) and women also showed increased PWV (+6.8%), but after adjustment for other CV risk factors low adiponectin level was no longer associated with deteriorated outcomes of NIMA.

Conclusions.  Waist circumference showed independent associations with noninvasive measurements of subclinical atherosclerosis, whereas the association of adiponectin level with subclinical atherosclerosis was not independent of other CV risk factors. Prospective studies are needed to elucidate, if the atherogenic effect of a low adiponectin level is mediated by other CV risk factors and not by low adiponectin level intrinsically.
Delayed blood pressure recovery after head‐up tilting during sleep in preterm infants
Authors: WITCOMBE NICOLE B. , YIALLOUROU STEPHANIE R. , WALKER ADRIAN M. , HORNE ROSEMARY S. C.
Published: November 2009

Dramatic changes in cardiovascular control occur in sleep during infancy, when sleep time is at a lifetime maximum. In infants born preterm there are significant cardiovascular complications later in life, and also an increased risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), possibly a result of inadequate compensation to a cardiorespiratory challenge in sleep. We aimed to examine the consequences of preterm birth on heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) responses to head‐up tilting (HUT) during sleep in infants. Preterm (n = 25) and term (n = 20) infants were studied using daytime polysomnography at 2–4 weeks’, 2–3 months’ and 5–6 months’ term‐corrected age (CA). BP was recorded using a photoplethysmographic cuff (Finometer™); 15° HUTs were performed during both quiet and active sleep. Preterm infants responded to HUT with increased HR and BP, followed by a bradycardia and a subsequent return of HR and BP to baseline. Overall, HUT responses were similar between term and preterm infants at matched ages. Notably, however, return of BP to baseline was considerably delayed in preterm infants (∼37 beats post‐tilt) compared with term infants (∼23 beats post‐tilt) at both 2–4 weeks’ and 2–3 months’ CA (P < 0.05). Our study has demonstrated that preterm infants respond to a BP perturbation with changes in HR that match those of term infants. However, delayed recovery of BP during sleep in the preterm infant may be indicative of underlying deficits or immaturity in vascular function or control, which may contribute to their vulnerability to SIDS and cardiovascular complications later in life.
Colony kin structure and host‐parasite relatedness in the barnacle goose
Authors: ANDERHOLM SOFIA , WALDECK PETER , VAN DER JEUGD HENK P. , MARSHALL RUPERT C. , LARSSON KJELL , ANDERSSON MALTE
Published: November 2009

Conspecific brood parasitism (CBP), females laying eggs in the nest of other ‘host’ females of the same species, is a common alternative reproductive tactic among birds. For hosts there are likely costs of incubating and rearing foreign offspring, but costs may be low in species with precocial chicks such as waterfowl, among which CBP is common. Waterfowl show strong female natal philopatry, and spatial relatedness among females may influence the evolution of CBP. Here we investigate fine‐scale kin structure in a Baltic colony of barnacle geese, Branta leucopsis, estimating female spatial relatedness using protein fingerprints of egg albumen, and testing the performance of this estimator in known mother‐daughter pairs. Relatedness was significantly higher between neighbour females (nesting ≤ 40 metres from each other) than between females nesting farther apart, but there was no further distance trend in relatedness. This pattern may be explained by earlier observations of females nesting close to their mother or brood sisters, even when far from the birth nest. Hosts and parasites were on average not more closely related than neighbour females. In 25 of 35 sampled parasitized nests, parasitic eggs were laid after the host female finished laying, too late to develop and hatch. Timely parasites, laying eggs in the host’s laying sequence, had similar relatedness to hosts as that between neighbours. Females laying late parasitic eggs tended to be less related to the host, but not significantly so. Our results suggest that CBP in barnacle geese might represent different tactical life‐history responses.
Recombination and lineage‐specific gene loss in the aflatoxin gene cluster of Aspergillus flavus
Authors: MOORE GEROMY G. , SINGH RAKHI , HORN BRUCE W. , CARBONE IGNAZIO
Published: November 2009

Aflatoxins produced by Aspergillus flavus are potent carcinogens that contaminate agricultural crops. Recent efforts to reduce aflatoxin concentrations in crops have focused on biological control using nonaflatoxigenic A. flavus strains AF36 (=NRRL 18543) and NRRL 21882 (the active component of afla‐guard®). However, the evolutionary potential of these strains to remain nonaflatoxigenic in nature is unknown. To elucidate the underlying population processes that influence aflatoxigenicity, we examined patterns of linkage disequilibrium (LD) spanning 21 regions in the aflatoxin gene cluster of A. flavus. We show that recombination events are unevenly distributed across the cluster in A. flavus. Six distinct LD blocks separate late pathway genes aflE, aflM, aflN, aflG, aflL, aflI and aflO, and there is no discernable evidence of recombination among early pathway genes aflA, aflB, aflC, aflD, aflR and aflS. The discordance in phylogenies inferred for the aflW/aflX intergenic region and two noncluster regions, tryptophan synthase and acetamidase, is indicative of trans‐species evolution in the cluster. Additionally, polymorphisms in aflW/aflX divide A. flavus strains into two distinct clades, each harbouring only one of the two approved biocontrol strains. The clade with AF36 includes both aflatoxigenic and nonaflatoxigenic strains, whereas the clade with NRRL 21882 comprises only nonaflatoxigenic strains and includes all strains of A. flavus missing the entire gene cluster or with partial gene clusters. Our detection of LD blocks in partial clusters indicates that recombination may have played an important role in cluster disassembly, and multilocus coalescent analyses of cluster and noncluster regions indicate lineage‐specific gene loss in A. flavus. These results have important implications in assessing the stability of biocontrol strains in nature.
The distribution and abundance of wheat roots in a dense, structured subsoil – implications for water uptake
Authors: WHITE ROSEMARY G. , KIRKEGAARD JOHN A.
Published: November 2009

We analysed the abundance, spatial distribution and soil contact of wheat roots in dense, structured subsoil to determine whether incomplete extraction of subsoil water was due to root system limitations. Intact soil cores were collected to 1.6 m below wheat crops at maturity on a red Kandosol in southern Australia. Wheat roots, remnant roots, soil pores and root–soil contact were quantified at fresh breaks in the soil cores. In surface soil layers (<0.6 m) 30–40% of roots were clumped within pores and cracks in the soil, increasing to 85–100% in the subsoil (>0.6 m), where 44% of roots were in pores with at least three other roots. Most pores contained no roots, with occupancy declining from 20% in surface layers to 5% in subsoil. Wheat roots clumped into pores contacted the surrounding soil via numerous root hairs, whereas roots in cracks were appressed to the soil surface and had very few root hairs. Calculations assuming good root–soil contact indicated that root density was sufficient to extract available subsoil water, suggesting that uptake is constrained at the root–soil interface. To increase extraction of subsoil water, genetic targets could include increasing root–soil contact with denser root hairs, and increasing root proliferation to utilize existing soil pores.
Opposites attract: MHC‐associated mate choice in a polygynous primate
Authors: SETCHELL J. M. , CHARPENTIER M. J. E. , ABBOTT K. M. , WICKINGS E. J. , KNAPP L. A.
Published: November 2009

We investigated reproduction in a semi‐free‐ranging population of a polygynous primate, the mandrill, in relation to genetic relatedness and male genetic characteristics, using neutral microsatellite and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genotyping. We compared genetic dissimilarity to the mother and genetic characteristics of the sire with all other potential sires present at the conception of each offspring (193 offspring for microsatellite genetics, 180 for MHC). The probability that a given male sired increased as pedigree relatedness with the mother decreased, and overall genetic dissimilarity and MHC dissimilarity with the mother increased. Reproductive success also increased with male microsatellite heterozygosity and MHC diversity. These effects were apparent despite the strong influence of dominance rank on male reproductive success. The closed nature of our study population is comparable to human populations for which MHC‐associated mate choice has been reported, suggesting that such mate choice may be especially important in relatively isolated populations with little migration to introduce genetic variation.
Age Affects Over‐Marking of Opposite‐Sex Scent Marks in Meadow Voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus
Authors: Ferkin Michael H.
Published: November 2009

Models of age‐related effects on behavior predict that among short‐lived species younger adults are more attractive and attracted to opposite‐sex conspecifics than are older adults, whereas the converse is predicted for long‐lived species. Although most studies of age‐related effects on behavior support these predictions, they are not supported by many studies of scent marking, a behavior used in mate attraction. Over‐marking, a form of scent marking, is a tactic used by many terrestrial mammals to convey information about themselves to opposite‐sex conspecifics. The present study tested the hypothesis that the age of meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus; a microtine rodent, affects their over‐ and scent‐marking behaviors when they encounter the marks of opposite‐sex conspecifics. Sex differences existed in the over‐marking behavior of adult voles among the three different age groups that were tested. Male voles that were 5–7 and 10–12 mo olds over‐marked a higher proportion of the marks of females than did 2–3 mo old male voles. Female voles that were 2–3, 5–7, and 10–12 mo old over‐marked a similar number of marks deposited by male voles. Overall, the data were not consistent with models predicting the behavior of short‐lived animals such as rodents when they encounter the opposite sex. The differences in over‐marking displayed by older and younger adult male voles may be associated with life history tradeoffs, the likelihood that they will encounter sexually receptive females, and being selected as mates.
Paediatric vulval lichen sclerosus
Authors: Smith Saxon D , Fischer Gayle
Published: November 2009

Lichen sclerosus (LS) in children is uncommon; however, it is an important differential diagnosis in any pre‐pubertal child presenting with chronic vulval symptoms. The long‐term prognosis is unknown; however, recent data suggests that the assumption that the condition will resolve at puberty may be incorrect. Children with LS require long‐term management with topical corticosteroids, which remains the treatment of choice, as well as long‐term follow up. We review the current literature on paediatric vulval LS.
Melanoma in private practice: Do dermatologists make a difference?
Authors: Cherian Paul , Tait Clare P
Published: November 2009

Malignant melanoma is a major contributor to Australian morbidity and mortality. In this era of resource rationalisation, we seek to address the issue of whether routine full‐skin examination by a dermatologist, rather than focussed examination of flagged lesions, will increase melanoma diagnosis. A retrospective chart review was undertaken between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2008 in a private dermatology group practice in order to ascertain the number and characteristics of incidentally detected melanomas on routine skin examination. A total of 94 melanomas were detected during this 12‐month period. Of these, 57 (60.6%) were incidentally detected by the dermatologist, 41 (71.9%) were in situ melanomas and 16 (28.1%) were invasive melanoma. Of the invasive lesions, 15 (94%) were ‘thin’ (less than 1.0 mm Breslow thickness). The majority of melanomas were found in men, and were distributed in areas of high cumulative sun exposure. Nine (9.6%) lesions were clinically misdiagnosed by the dermatologists and picked up on histopathology. This audit reaffirms the usefulness of routine full‐skin examination by dermatologists in detecting de novo melanoma as part of the global strategy in reducing the burden of melanoma in Australia.
Sézary syndrome presenting with ‘leonine facies’
Authors: Nassem Shano , Kashyap Rajesh , Awasthi Namrata P , Krishnani Narendra , Kumari Neeraj
Published: November 2009

A 71‐year‐old man presented with erythroderma and multiple nodular skin lesions over the face, scalp, upper limbs and trunk. The facial skin was thickened, producing the rare ‘leonine facies’ appearance. Investigations revealed the presence of atypical lymphoid cells in the peripheral blood, bone marrow and skin. The atypical lymphoid cells in the peripheral blood and bone marrow were positive for helper T‐cell antigens (CD4, CD2, CD5 and CD7) on immunophenotyping by flow cytometry. The histopathology of skin showed dermal infiltration by atypical small lymphocytes with epidermotropism. These cells were positive for helper T‐lymphocyte antigens on immunohistochemistry. A diagnosis of Sézary syndrome was made based on clinical, peripheral blood and immunophenotypical findings.
Cutaneous malignant melanoma arising in an acquired naevus of Ota
Authors: Patterson Clare RS , Acland Katharine , Khooshabeh Ramona
Published: November 2009

Naevus of Ota is a dermal melanocytosis most commonly found in black or Asian skin and is usually a benign malformation, but with a low risk of melanoma. We describe a 32‐year‐old Caucasian man with an acquired naevus of Ota with subtle pigmentation, in which a melanocytic papule developed. The lesion, deceptively, had no clinically suspicious features, but investigation revealed an aggressive cutaneous malignant melanoma, extensive orbital ring melanocytosis and metastatic brain and subsequent liver disease.
Utility of regular medical examinations of occupational divers
Authors: Sames C. , Gorman D. , Mitchell S. J. , Gamble G.
Published: November 2009

The utility of regular medical fitness‐for‐diving examinations of occupational divers is unknown. The aim of this audit was to investigate the impact on the employment of occupational divers of a 5‐yearly medical examination and an annual health surveillance questionnaire administered in intervening years. The medical records of all New Zealand occupational divers registered with the Department of Labour for at least 5 years were audited (n= 336). Each record included at least two full medical examinations (mean spacing of 5.6 years). An impact on career was defined as the diver being issued with either a conditional certificate of fitness or being graded as temporarily or permanently unfit for diving. The means by which the relevant medical issue was identified was recorded. Ten (3%) of 336 divers had an assessment outcome, which had a career impact. One was considered permanently unfit, four were temporarily unfit, and five were issued with conditional certification. Two were identified by respiratory function testing and eight by way of their responses to the questionnaire; none was found by the medical interview and examination process. The questionnaire system did not ‘miss’ any divers who developed a critically important health problem, and detected most of those with less important problems. Five yearly medical examinations have a low detection rate for important health problems, but remain useful for discussion of risk understanding, acceptance and mitigation.
Rat allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells did not prolong the survival of corneal xenograft in a pig‐to‐rat model
Authors: Oh Joo Youn , Kim Mee Kum , Ko Jung Hwa , Lee Hyun Ju , Lee Jin Hak , Wee Won Ryang
Published: November 2009

Objective  Recent reports have demonstrated that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can modulate/suppress immunologic responses through interactions with different immune cells. We performed this study in order to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of MSCs in corneal xenotransplantation.

Animals studied  Pig and rat.

Procedures  We orthotopically transplanted pig corneas into rats and topically applied allogeneic rat MSCs to the corneas for 2 h immediately after transplantation. Graft survival was clinically assessed using slit‐lamp biomicroscopy and the median survival time (MST) was calculated. The rejected grafts were histologically examined using antibodies against CD4, CD8, CD161, and CD68. The expression of IL‐2, IL‐6, IL‐10, and IFN‐γ was also evaluated in the rejected grafts using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results  The survival of corneal xenografts was not significantly prolonged by MSC application (MST 10.5 days) compared with the controls (MST 9.67 days) (P = 0.4189). Histologically, the rejected grafts in both groups were massively infiltrated with neutrophils and macrophages. Some CD8+ T cells and rare NK cells were found in the rejected grafts. The levels of IL‐6 and IL‐10 were significantly increased in the rejected grafts from MSC‐treated rats compared with the grafts from MSC‐untreated rats. However, the levels of IL‐2 and IFN‐γ were not different between the two groups.

Conclusions  Topical application of allogeneic rat MSCs was ineffective in prolonging corneal xenograft survival in a pig‐to‐rat model.
α‐Blockers to assist stone clearance after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhu Yefang , Duijvesz Diederick , Rovers Maroeska M. , Lock Tycho M.
Published: November 2009

Study Type – Therapy (meta‐analysis) Level of Evidence 1a

OBJECTIVE

To review the evidence for the use of α‐blockers after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) in enhancing the effectiveness of renal and ureteric stone clearance.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library up to January 2009. All randomized controlled trials in which α‐blockers were evaluated after ESWL were eligible for the analysis. Outcome measures assessed were clearance rate (primary) and expulsion time (secondary). Two authors independently assessed study quality and extracted data. All data were analysed using RevMan 5.

RESULTS

Of the 29 identified papers, seven trials with a total of 484 patients met the predefined criteria. These studies evaluated the effectiveness of the α‐blocker tamsulosin, and studied clearance rate as the primary outcome. There was large heterogeneity between trials, but their methodological quality was adequate. The pooled absolute risk difference of clearance rate was 16% (95% confidence interval 5–27%) in favour of the tamsulosin group, i.e. an average of six patients have to be treated with tamsulosin after ESWL to achieve clearance in one. Subgroup analysis for the six studies that used a dose of 0.4 mg tamsulosin showed a pooled risk difference of 19 (10–29)%. The expulsion time was analysed in three studies and the pooled mean difference was 8  (−3–20) days in favour of the tamsulosin group. Pain and analgesic usage was reported to be lower with tamsulosin. Adverse effects of tamsulosin, mainly dizziness, were reported in eight patients (3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with tamsulosin after ESWL appears to be effective in assisting stone clearance in patients with renal and ureteric calculi. To make a definite clinical recommendation to use tamsulosin after ESWL for renal and ureteric calculi, a high quality confirmatory trial is warranted.
A preliminary study of the sensory distribution of the penile dorsal and ventral nerves: implications for effective penile block for circumcision
Authors: Long Ronan M. , McCartan Damian , Cullen Ivor , Harmon Dominic , Flood Hugh D.
Published: November 2009

Study Type – Aetiology (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To determine the sensory innervation of the penis, as regional anaesthesia is often used either for postoperative analgesia or as the sole anaesthetic technique for circumcision. Since first described in 1978 the dorsal penile nerve block has become the standard technique, but some blocks are ineffective; a better understanding of the sensory innervation of the penis might improve the efficacy of the dorsal penile block technique.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In 13 men undergoing circumcision with local anaesthetic, cutaneous sensation was tested before and after infiltration of the dorsal aspect of the penis, and then again after infiltration of the ventral aspect. The area of anaesthesia was mapped using pin‐prick sensation.

RESULTS

Ten of the 13 patients showed a similar pattern of sensory distribution. After the dorsal block, the dorsal aspect of the shaft of the penis and glans penis became insensate. The ventral aspect of the shaft remained sensate up to and including the frenulum. After successful ventral infiltration all sensate areas became insensate and circumcision proceeded. In one case the frenulum and distal ventral foreskin was anaesthetized after the dorsal block and ventral infiltration was not required. No patient experienced pain during circumcision.

CONCLUSION

For consistently successful regional anaesthesia of the foreskin in circumcision, a dorsal block must be used. This should be combined with ventral infiltration at the site of incision. This method will avoid inconsistencies and allow pain‐free circumcision using local anaesthesia in most men.
A PENALTY‐LOGIC SIMPLE‐TRANSITION MODEL FOR STRUCTURED SEQUENCES
Authors: Fern Alan
Published: November 2009

We study the problem of learning to infer hidden‐state sequences of processes whose states and observations are propositionally or relationally factored. Unfortunately, standard exact inference techniques such as Viterbi and graphical model inference exhibit exponential complexity for these processes. The main motivation behind our work is to identify a restricted space of models, which facilitate efficient inference, yet are expressive enough to remain useful in many applications. In particular, we present the penalty‐logic simple‐transition model, which utilizes a very simple‐transition structure where the transition cost between any two states is constant. While not appropriate for all complex processes, we argue that it is often rich enough in many applications of interest, and when it is applicable there can be inference and learning advantages compared to more general models. In particular, we show that sequential inference for this model, that is, finding a minimum‐cost state sequence, efficiently reduces to a single‐state minimization (SSM) problem. We then show how to define atemporal‐cost models in terms of penalty logic, or weighted logical constraints, and how to use this representation for practically efficient SSM computation. We present a method for learning the weights of our model from labeled training data based on Perceptron updates. Finally, we give experiments in both propositional and relational video‐interpretation domains showing advantages compared to more general models.
METAPHOR RECOGNITION: CHMETA, A PATTERN‐BASED SYSTEM
Authors: Yang Yun , Zhou Changle , Ding Xiaojun , Chen Jiawei , Shi Xiaodong
Published: November 2009

Metaphor recognition presents a computational challenge, in part due to metaphoric deviation from literal thinking, and also because of a metaphor's various linguistic expressions. This article forwards a new computational method, an integrated treatment of metaphor recognition from the computational perspective, which recent related studies have not entirely addressed. The authors differentiate metaphor recognition from complex metaphor inference and interpretation employing psychological clues. To accomplish this, we have developed a formalized system of metaphorical expression in metaphor role dependency schema, which specifically defines, classifies, and quantifies metaphorical anomalies, building a computable classification system for metaphors (incorporating 32 major patterns of metaphorical expressions) by providing a strategy to locate potential metaphorical anomalies in a target input sentence through a pattern recognition method and a metaphor components' tagging approach. This metaphor recognition and tagging system is named and implemented as “CHMeta.” Experiment results support the validity and efficiency of this metaphor recognition system. Compared with most metaphor computation systems, which work mainly on a few examples, this system classifies major metaphorical expressions from a computational perspective and is able to recognize a variety of different kinds of metaphors, including nested ones. Thus, this is the first integrated work in computable classification, recognition, and tagging of large‐scale metaphors in Chinese.
Cancer survivorship, mor(t)ality and lifestyle discourses on cancer prevention
Authors: Bell Kirsten
Published: November 2009

Despite ongoing controversies regarding the impact of lifestyle factors such as body weight, diet and exercise on health, this framework has become increasingly prominent in understandings of cancer aetiology. To date, little consideration has been given to the impacts of such discourses on people with a history of cancer. Drawing on an ethnographic study of cancer survivors, I explore the constitutive dimensions of these discourses and the ways that they shape the subjectivities of women and men with a history of the disease. Overall, the study participants evidenced a complex and ambivalent engagement with such discourses. While they were generally unwilling to accept that their lifestyle had an impact on the development of their cancer, to varying degrees they endorsed the idea that weight, diet and exercise affected cancer progression. However, this acceptance was generally borne of an active desire to gain control over the uncertainty of living with the disease and was mediated by other aspects of the experience of surviving cancer.