bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemics of Meloidogyne brasilensis in Central Brazil on Processing Tomato Hybrids That Have the Root-Knot Nematode Mi Resistance Gene
Authors: Charchar J. M. , Fonseca M. E. N. , Pinheiro J. B. , Boiteux L. S. , Eisenback J. D.
Published: May 2010

The species Meloidogyne brasilensis Charchar & Eisenback 2002 was described as causing root rot, severe wilt, and numerous galls in pea (Pisum sativum L.) in Brasília-Federal District and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) cv. Rossol (known to have the root-knot nematode resistance Mi gene) in Londrina-Paraná State, Brazil. To our knowledge, this current work is the first report of the epidemics on tomato hybrids that have the Mi gene caused by infection of M. brasilensis in central Brazil. Samples were obtained from fields with two commercial hybrids that have the Mi gene (‘Calroma’ and ‘Nemapride’) that were cultivated under center-pivot irrigation in Silvânia, Goiás State. These hybrids exhibited slow vegetative development and malformed roots because of the high number of large galls. Symptomatic plants were collected from a tomato crop area of more than 100 ha. Random sampling indicated field sectors with up to 100% of symptomatic plants. Morphological and morphometric evaluations of this Meloidogyne population were carried out with the female perineal pattern, stylet, and excretory pore and also with the male body traits, labial disc, and stylet. The esterase phenotype was unique for this population with four clear bands (J. M. Charchar, unpublished data). Altogether, the morphological and biochemical characteristics of this population were in agreement with that reported for M. brasilensis (1). Koch's postulates were fulfilled using tomato ‘Rutgers’ (susceptible) and ‘Rossol' (with the Mi resistance locus) under greenhouse conditions. The massive use of tomato hybrids with the Mi gene could be a strong selection factor favoring this pathogen under growing conditions in central Brazil. Germplasm screen searching for sources of resistance specific to this nematode species is advisable.

Reference: (1) J. M. Charchar and J. D. Eisenback. Nematology 4:629, 2002.
The Solar Action Spectrum of Photosystem II Damage
Authors: Takahashi Shunichi , Milward Sara E. , Yamori Wataru , Evans John R. , Hillier Warwick , Badger Murray R.
Published: May 2010

The production of oxygen and the supply of energy for life on earth rely on the process of photosynthesis using sunlight. Paradoxically, sunlight damages the photosynthetic machinery, primarily photosystem II (PSII), leading to photoinhibition and loss of plant performance. However, there is uncertainty about which wavelengths are most damaging to PSII under sunlight. In this work we examined this in a simple experiment where Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) leaves were exposed to different wavelengths of sunlight by dispersing the solar radiation across the surface of the leaf via a prism. To isolate only the process of photodamage, the repair of photodamaged PSII was inhibited by infiltration of chloramphenicol into the exposed leaves. The extent of photodamage was then measured as the decrease in the maximum quantum yield of PSII using an imaging pulse amplitude modulation fluorometer. Under the experimental light conditions, photodamage to PSII occurred most strongly in regions exposed to ultraviolet (UV) or yellow light. The extent of UV photodamage under incident sunlight would be greater than we observed when one corrects for the optical efficiency of our system. Our results suggest that photodamage to PSII under sunlight is primarily associated with UV rather than photosynthetically active light wavelengths.
Postoperative analgesia for shoulder surgery: a critical appraisal and review of current techniques
Authors: Fredrickson M. J. , Krishnan S. , Chen C. Y.
Published: May 2010

Shoulder surgery is well recognised as having the potential to cause severe postoperative pain. The aim of this review is to assess critically the evidence relating to the effectiveness of regional anaesthesia techniques commonly used for postoperative analgesia following shoulder surgery. Subacromial/intra‐articular local anaesthetic infiltration appears to perform only marginally better than placebo, and because the technique has been associated with catastrophic chondrolysis, it can no longer be recommended. All single injection nerve blocks are limited by a short effective duration. Suprascapular nerve block reduces postoperative pain and opioid consumption following arthroscopic surgery, but provides inferior analgesia compared with single injection interscalene block. Continuous interscalene block incorporating a basal local anaesthetic infusion and patient controlled boluses is the most effective analgesic technique following both major and minor shoulder surgery. However, interscalene nerve block is an invasive procedure with potentially serious complications and should therefore only be performed by practitioners with appropriate experience.
Comparison of mechanomyography and acceleromyography for the assessment of rocuronium induced neuromuscular block in myotonic dystrophy type 1
Authors: Vanlinthout L. E. H. , Booij L. H. D. J. , Van Egmond J. , Robertson E. N.
Published: May 2010

We measured acceleromyography and mechanomyography simultaneously with monitoring of rocuronium‐induced neuromuscular block in four patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1. Furthermore, we compared neuromuscular block measures from these patients with those from normal controls from previous studies. In myotonic dystrophy type 1 patients, the dose‐response curve obtained with acceleromyography was steeper and right‐shifted compared with that obtained using mechanomyography. However, the effective doses to produce 95% neuromuscular block determined with both acceleromyography and mechanomyography were similar to each other and to values found in normal patients. In the three myotonic dystrophy type 1 patients with mild to moderate disease, times to recovery from block were similar to those observed in normal controls. In both patients and normal controls, neuromuscular block recovered faster with acceleromyography. However, in one patient with severe muscle wasting, recovery of neuromuscular block was prolonged. We conclude that mechanomyography and acceleromyography cannot be used interchangeably to monitor neuromuscular block in myotonic dystrophy type 1 patients.
Continuous patient‐controlled epidural infusion of levobupivacaine plus sufentanil in labouring primiparous women: effects of concentration*
Authors: Tixier S. , Bonnin M. , Bolandard F. , Vernis L. , Lavergne B. , Bazin J. E. , Dualé C.
Published: May 2010

The effects of two different concentrations of epidural levobupivacaine were compared when used to provide analgesia for labour. Primiparous women in spontaneous uncomplicated labour were enrolled in a prospective, randomised and partially double‐blinded study. The study solutions were either 0.568 mg.ml−1 levobupivacaine (low concentration group) or 1.136 mg.ml−1 levobupivacaine (high concentration group), with sufentanil 0.45 μg.ml−1 added to both solutions. Epidural analgesia was initiated with 20 ml of the study solution, followed by a standardised algorithm of top‐up bolus injections. Epidural analgesia was then continued by self‐administered boluses of 5‐ml plus a continuous infusion of 5 ml.h−1. Analgesia was found to be more efficacious in the high‐concentration group. The dose of levobupivacaine administered was higher and sometimes overstepping recommended limits in the high concentration group, but with no observed increase in side‐effects. The choice between these two concentrations may still be made according to the patient’s and the practitioner’s preferences. The effects of an intermediate concentration should be studied in the future.
Association of G6PD202A,376G with lower haemoglobin concentration but not increased haemolysis in patients with sickle cell anaemia
Authors: Nouraie Mehdi , Reading Noel S. , Campbell Andrew , Minniti Caterina P. , Rana Sohail R. , Luchtman‐Jones Lori , Kato Gregory J. , Gladwin Mark T. , Castro Oswaldo L. , Prchal Josef T. , Gordeuk Victor R.
Published: May 2010

The genetic bases of the highly variable degrees of anaemia and haemolysis in persons with Hb SS are not fully known, but several studies have indicated that G6PD deficiency is not a factor. The G6PD202A and G6PD376G alleles and α‐thalassaemia were determined by molecular genetic testing in 261 children and adolescents with Hb SS in a multicentre study. G6PD202A,376G (G6PD A−) was defined as hemizygosity for both alleles in males and homozygosity in females. Among the participants 41% were receiving hydroxycarbamide. The prevalence of G6PD202A,376G was 13·6% in males and 3·3% in females with an overall prevalence of 8·7%. G6PD202A,376G was associated with a 10 g/l decrease in haemoglobin concentration (P = 0·008) but not with increased haemolysis as measured by lactate dehydrogenase, bilirubin, aspartate‐aminotransferase, reticulocyte count or a haemolytic component derived from these markers (P > 0·09). Similar results were found within a sub‐group of children who were not receiving hydroxycarbamide. By comparison, single and double α‐globin deletions were associated with progressively higher haemoglobin concentrations (P = 0·005 for trend), progressively lower values for haemolytic component (P = 0·007), and increased severe pain episodes (P < 0·001). In conclusion, G6PD202A,376G may be associated with lower haemoglobin concentration in sickle cell anaemia by a mechanism other than increased haemolysis.
Low thymic output in the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome measured by CCR9+CD45RA+ T cell counts and T cell receptor rearrangement excision circles
Authors: Lima K , Abrahamsen T G , Foelling I , Natvig S , Ryder L P , Olaussen R W
Published: May 2010

Thymic hypoplasia is a frequent feature of the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, but we know little about patients' age-related thymic output and long-term consequences for their immune system. We measured the expression of T cell receptor rearrangement excision circles (TREC) and used flow cytometry for direct subtyping of recent thymic emigrant (RTE)-related T cells in 43 patients (aged 1–54 years; median 9 years) from all over Norway and in age-matched healthy controls. Thymic volumes were estimated by ultrasound in patients. TREC levels correlated well with RTE-related T cells defined by co-expression of CD3, CD45RA and CCR9 (r = 0·84) as well as with the CD4+ and CD8+ T cell subtypes. RTE-related T cell counts also paralleled age-related TREC reductions. CD45RA+ T cells correlated well with absolute counts of CD4+ (r = 0·87) and CD8+ (r = 0·75) RTE-related T cells. Apart from CD45RA- T cells, all T cell subsets were lower in patients than in controls. Thymic volumes correlated better with RTE-related cells (r = 0·46) than with TREC levels (r = 0·38). RTE-related T cells and TREC levels also correlated well (r = 0·88) in patients without an identifiable thymus. Production of RTEs is impaired in patients with a 22q11.2 deletion, and CCR9 appears to be a good marker for RTE-related T cells.
Avidity of thyroglobulin antibody in sera from patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis with different thyroid functional status
Authors: Zhang Y , Gao Y , Li M , Xie L , Huang Y , Gao Y , Guo X
Published: May 2010

The mechanism of disease progression in Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is still unclear. Thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) is a diagnostic hallmark of HT. The aim of our study was to evaluate the avidity of TgAb in sera from HT patients with different thyroid functional status. Sera from 50 patients with newly diagnosed HT were collected and divided into three groups according to thyroid function: patients with hypothyroidism (H, n = 18), subclinical hypothyroidism (sH, n = 18) and euthyroidism (Eu, n = 14). Titres and avidity of TgAb were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Avidity constant (aK) was determined as the reciprocal value of the thyroglobulin molar concentration in the liquid phase resulting in 50% inhibition of TgAb binding to thyroglobulin in solid-phase ELISAs. The titres and aK of TgAb were performed using log-transformation, and expressed as lgT and lgaK, respectively. Mean lgT of TgAb in sera was 4.19 ± 0.60 in H, 3.77 ± 0.63 in sH, and 3.29 ± 0.64 in Eu, respectively. The median avidity of TgAb was 2.30 × 109 in H, 8.80 × 108 in sH, 2.00 × 107 in Eu, respectively. lgT and lgaK of TgAb were at significantly lower levels in Eu than in sH and H (P < 0.05). Correlation was found between lgT and lgaK (r = 0.594, P < 0.05). lgaK was also related to TSH (r=0.308, P < 0.05). Our study indicated that patients with high-avidity TgAb might be at high risk of developing subclinical, even to overt, hypothyroidism.
Combined Env- and Gag-specific T cell responses in relation to programmed death-1 receptor and CD4+ T cell loss rates in human immunodeficiency virus-1 infection
Authors: Pettersen F O , Taskén K , Kvale D
Published: May 2010

Additional progression markers for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection are warranted. In this study we related antigen-specific responses in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells to CD38, reflecting chronic immune activation, and to CD4+ T cell loss rates. Clones transiently expressing CD107a (CD8+) or CD154 (CD4+) in response to Gag, Env and Nef overlapping peptide pools were identified, along with their expression of the inhibitory programmed death-1 receptor (PD-1) in fresh peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 31 patients off antiretroviral treatment (ART). HIV-specific CD8+ T cell responses dominated over CD4+ T cell responses, and among CD8+ responses, Gag and Nef responses were higher than Env-responses (P < 0·01). PD-1 on CD8+ HIV-specific subsets was higher than CMV-specific CD8+ cells (P < 0·01), whereas PD-1 on HIV-specific CD4+ cells was similar to PD-1 on CMV-specific CD4+ cells. Gag and Env CD8+ responses correlated oppositely to the CD4 loss rate. Env/Gag CD8+ response ratios, independently of PD-1 levels, correlated more strongly to CD4 change rates (r = −0·50 to −0·77, P < 0·01) than the total number of Gag-specific CD8+ cells (r = 0·44–0·85, P ≤ 0·02). The Env/Gag ratio performed better than CD38 and HIV-RNA in logistic regression analysis predicting CD4 change rate as a measure of progression. In conclusion, HIV-specific CD8+CD107a+ Env/Gag response ratio was a stronger predictor for progression than CD38 and HIV-RNA. The Env/Gag ratio may reflect the balance between possibly beneficial (Gag) and detrimental (Env) CD8+ T cell responses and should be explored further as a progression marker.
Ligation of CD11c during vaccination promotes germinal centre induction and robust humoral responses without adjuvant
Authors: White Ann L. , Tutt Alison L. , James Sonya , Wilkinson Kevin A. , Castro Fernanda V. V. , Dixon Sandra V. , Hitchcock Jessica , Khan Mahmood , Al‐Shamkhani Aymen , Cunningham Adam F. , Glennie Martin J.
Published: May 2010

In this study, we investigated the mouse dendritic cell (DC) receptor, complement receptor 4 (CR4; CD11c/CD18), as an immunotarget for triggering humoral immunity. Comparison of antibody titres generated against a panel of 13 anti‐antigen‐presenting cell receptor monoclonal antibodies, with or without conjugated ovalbumin (OVA), revealed uniquely rapid and robust responses following CR4 targeting, with antibody titres approaching 1 : 100 000 7 days after a single dose of antigen. Furthermore, using just 100 ng OVA conjugated to anti‐CD11c Fab′, we generated anti‐OVA titres greater than those produced by a 100‐fold higher dose of OVA in complete Freund’s adjuvant at day 28. These anti‐OVA antibody titres were sustained and could be boosted further with targeted OVA on day 21. Investigations to explain this vaccine potency showed that, in addition to targeting splenic DC, anti‐CDl1c antibodies delivered a powerful adjuvant effect and could boost humoral immunity against OVA even when the OVA was targeted to other molecules on DC, such as major histocompatibility complex class II, CD11a and CD11b. However, interestingly, this adjuvant effect was lost if OVA was targeted to other cells such as B cells via CD21 or CD19. The adjuvant effect was mediated through a marked enhancement of both germinal centre and extrafollicular plasma cell formation in responding spleens. These results demonstrate that anti‐CD11c monoclonal antibody can both target antigen and act as a powerful adjuvant for rapid and sustained antibody responses. They also point to an interesting role for CR4 on DC in triggering B cells during humoral immunity.
Proviral integration site 2 is required for interleukin‐6 expression induced by interleukin‐1, tumour necrosis factor‐α and lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Yang Jianfei , Li Xiang , Hanidu Adedayo , Htut Tin M. , Sellati Rosemarie , Wang Lian , Jiang Huiping , Li Jun
Published: May 2010

PIM (proviral integration site) kinases are a distinct class of serine/threonine‐specific kinases consisting of PIM1, PIM2 and PIM3. PIM2 is known to function in apoptosis pathways. Expression of PIM2 is highly induced by pro‐inflammatory stimuli but the role of PIM2 in the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines is unclear. In this study, we showed that over‐expression of PIM2 in HeLa cells as well as in human umbilical vein endothelial cells enhanced interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) ‐induced and tumour necrosis factor‐α‐induced IL‐6 expression, whereas over‐expression of a kinase‐dead PIM2 mutant had the opposite effect. Studies with small interfering RNA specific to PIM2 further confirmed that IL‐6 expression in HeLa cells requires PIM2. To investigate the function of PIM2 further, we generated PIM2‐deficient mice. It was found that IL‐6 production was significantly decreased from PIM2‐deficient spleen cells after stimulation with lipopolysaccharide. Taken together, we demonstrated an important function of PIM2 in controlling the expression of the pro‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐6. PIM2 inhibitors may be beneficial for IL‐6‐mediated diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Generation, persistence and plasticity of CD4 T‐cell memories
Authors: Lees Jason R. , Farber Donna L.
Published: May 2010

The development of immune memory mediated by T lymphocytes is central to durable, long‐lasting protective immunity. A key issue in the field is how to direct the generation and persistence of memory T cells to elicit the appropriate secondary response to provide protection to a specific pathogen. Two prevailing views have emerged; that cellular and molecular regulators control the lineage fate and functional capacities of memory T cells early after priming, or alternatively, that populations of memory T cells are inherently plastic and subject to alterations in function and/or survival at many stages during their long‐term maintenance. Here, we will review current findings in CD4 T‐cell memory that suggest inherent plasticity in populations of memory CD4 T cells at all stages of their development – originating with their generation from multiple types of primed CD4 T cells, during their persistence and homeostatic turnover in response to T‐cell receptor signals, and also following secondary challenge. These multiple aspects of memory CD4 T‐cell flexibility contrast the more defined lineages and functions ascribed to memory CD8 T cells, suggesting a dynamic nature to memory CD4 T‐cell populations and responses. The flexible attributes of CD4 T‐cell memory suggest opportunities and mechanisms for therapeutic manipulation at all phases of immune memory development, maintenance and recall.
Correlated expression patterns of microRNA genes with age‐dependent behavioural changes in honeybee
Authors: Behura S. K. , Whitfield C. W.
Published: May 2010

The hive‐living honeybees (Apis mellifera) show age‐dependent behavioural changes; young bees usually nurse the broods in the colony and the older bees engage in foraging activities. These developmentally regulated behavioural changes were previously shown to be correlated with genome‐wide transcriptional changes in the honeybee brain. The indigenous small regulatory RNA molecules, known as microRNAs (miRNAs), are potent regulators of gene expression and also are developmentally regulated. Thus, we wanted to study if there might be correlation of differential expression of miRNA genes in the brain with age‐dependent behavioural changes of the bees. We determined expression patterns of a set (n= 20) of predicted miRNA genes, by quantitative real‐time PCR assays, in the brains of young and old bees that were engaged in nursing or foraging activities in the colony, respectively. Our data show correlated up‐regulation of miRNA‐124, miRNA‐14, miRNA‐276, miRNA‐13b, let‐7 and miRNA‐13a in the young nurse bees. miRNA‐12, miRNA‐9, miRNA‐219, miRNA‐210, miRNA‐263, miRNA‐92 and miRNA‐283 showed correlated expression patterns in the old forager bees. The modular changes of miRNA genes in the young nurse and old forager bees suggest possible roles of miRNAs in age‐dependent behavioural changes in bees. The correlated expression of intronic miRNA genes and their host genes as well as of miRNA genes physically clustered in the genome are also observed.
Novel roles for ATP‐binding cassette G transporters in lipid redistribution in Toxoplasma
Authors: Ehrenman Karen , Sehgal Alfica , Lige Bao , Stedman Timothy T. , Joiner Keith A. , Coppens Isabelle
Published: May 2010

Toxoplasma is a protozoan parasite proficiently adapted to thrive in a parasitophorous vacuole (PV) formed in the cytoplasm of a large variety of mammalian cells. As an actively dividing organism, the parasite must adjust the lipid composition of its membranes to preserve organelle vitality and expand the size of the PV membrane to accommodate growing progeny. We showed that Toxoplasma takes up host lipids and can expel major lipids in an ATP‐dependent process. In order to provide detailed mechanistic insights into lipid trafficking phenomena relevant to Toxoplasma biology, we characterized six parasite ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) G family transporters and investigated their potential contribution to lipid homeostatic processes. All these transporters are expressed in the parasite and five of them are upregulated upon exposure to sterols. Four ABCG are localized to secretory organelles and the plasma membrane, and promote cholesterol and phospholipid efflux, reflecting the importance in exportation of large amounts of lipids into the PV. Interestingly, one ABCG that is associated with vesicles in the PV and the plasma membrane acts as a cholesterol importer. This last finding expands our current view on the role of some ABCG transporters in eukaryotic sterol influx.
Erysiphe trifolii– a newly recognized powdery mildew pathogen of pea
Authors: Attanayake R. N. , Glawe D. A. , McPhee K. E. , Dugan F. M. , Chen W.
Published: May 2010

Diversity of powdery mildew pathogens infecting pea (Pisum sativum) in the US Pacific Northwest was investigated using both molecular and morphological techniques. Phylogenetic analyses based on rDNA ITS sequences, in combination with assessment of morphological characters, defined two groups of powdery mildews infecting pea. Group I (five field samples and three glasshouse samples) had ITS sequences 99% similar to those of Erysiphe pisi in GenBank and exhibited simple, mycelioid type of chasmothecial appendages typical of E. pisi. Erysiphe pisi is normally considered as the powdery mildew pathogen of pea. Group II (four glasshouse samples and two field samples) had ITS sequences 99% similar to those of E. trifolii and produced chasmothecia with dichotomously branched appendages similar to those of E. trifolii. There are fourteen nucleotide differences in the ITS region between the two groups. The correlation of rDNA ITS sequences with teleomorphic features for each of the two groups confirms their identity. Repeated samplings and artificial inoculations indicate that both E. pisi and E. trifolii infect pea in the US Pacific Northwest. Erysiphe trifolii is not previously known as a pathogen of pea. The existence of two distinct powdery mildew species infecting pea in both glasshouse and field environments may interfere with the powdery mildew‐resistance breeding programmes, and possibly explains putative instances of breakdown of resistance in previously resistant pea breeding lines.
Attitudes and opinions on organ donation: an opportunity to educate in a Canadian city
Authors: Lee Edward , Midodizi William , Gourishankar Sita
Published: May 2010

Lee E, Midodizi W, Gourishankar S. Attitudes and opinions on organ donation: an opportunity to educate in a Canadian city.  Clin Transplant 2010: 24: E223–E229. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Background:  Patients on organ transplant waiting lists continue to far exceed donor rates. We seek to understand the barriers preventing people in a Canadian city from donating organs for transplantation.

Methods:  One thousand adults were surveyed assessing knowledge, personal involvement, and attitudes about organ donation in an urban center in Canada. Primary outcomes of interest were a signed organ donor card and willingness to donate.

Results:  Of those surveyed, 64% did not realize that they possessed an organ donor card; 90% would consider being a donor if a friend was in need of an organ. Of the 36% who did know, 72% had signed it. Those who had misconceptions about the organ donation process were less likely to be donors.

Interpretation:  There is a tremendous lack of knowledge about organ donation. While the majority of people are interested in organ donation, they lack a means to express this interest – most do not even realize they possess an organ donor card. A significant proportion of people who were not supportive of donation were misinformed in critical areas of knowledge that likely influenced this decision including the rich being preferentially transplanted, the consent process, disfigurement, and donors receiving worse medical care.
Decreased brain serotonin transporter binding in the euthymic state of bipolar I but not bipolar II disorder: a SPECT study
Authors: Chou Yuan‐Hwa , Wang Shyh‐Jen , Lin Chun‐Lung , Mao Wei‐Chung , Lee Shin‐Min , Liao Mei‐Hsiu
Published: May 2010

Chou Y‐H, Wang S‐J, Lin C‐L, Mao W‐C, Lee S‐M, Liao M‐H. Decreased brain serotonin transporter binding in the euthymic state of bipolar I but not bipolar II disorder: a SPECT study. Bipolar Disord 2010: 12: 312–318. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objectives:  Previous positron emission tomography studies have demonstrated that serotonin transporter (SERT) binding in the midbrain is decreased in the depressive state of bipolar disorder (BD). The aim of this study was to assess SERT binding in the midbrain of patients in a euthymic state of BD.

Methods:  Twenty‐eight healthy controls and 24 patients in a euthymic state of medicated BD were recruited. Euthymic state was defined as Montgomery‐Åsberg Depression Rating Scale scores < 10 and Young Mania Rating Scale scores < 7 within a consecutive eight‐week period. Single photon emission computed tomography with the radiotracer 123I‐ADAM was used to measure SERT binding in the midbrain. An equilibrium ratio model was used for data analysis. Specific uptake ratio (SUR), which represents availability of SERT binding in the midbrain, was the primary measurement outcome.

Results:  The averaged SURs were not different between healthy controls and BD patients in euthymic state (p = 0.27). However, a three‐way ANCOVA analysis comparing SURs in healthy controls, bipolar I disorder (BD I) patients, and bipolar II disorder (BD II) patients, covarying education duration and sex, showed that the averaged SURs were significantly lower in BD I than BD II patients and healthy controls (p = 0.042). The decreased SURs in BD I patients were well correlated with duration of illness (R = −0.742, p = 0.014) only.

Conclusions:  Our findings demonstrate that there is differential biological regulation in BD I and BD II patients after stable treatment, which may support the existence of a dichotomy in BD.
Impulsivity across the course of bipolar disorder
Authors: Strakowski Stephen M , Fleck David E , DelBello Melissa P , Adler Caleb M , Shear Paula K , Kotwal Renu , Arndt Stephan
Published: May 2010

Strakowski SM, Fleck DE, DelBello MP, Adler CM, Shear PK, Kotwal R, Arndt S. Impulsivity across the course of bipolar disorder. Bipolar Disord 2010: 12: 285–297. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objective:  To determine whether abnormalities of impulse control persist across the course of bipolar disorder, thereby representing potential state markers and endophenotypes.

Methods:  Impulse control of 108 bipolar I manic or mixed patients was measured on three tasks designed to study response inhibition, ability to delay gratification, and attention; namely, a stop signal task, a delayed reward task, and a continuous performance task, respectively. Barrett Impulsivity Scale (BIS‐11) scores were also obtained. Patients were then followed for up to one year and reassessed with the same measures if they developed depression or euthymia. Healthy comparison subjects were also assessed with the same instruments on two occasions to assess measurement stability.

Results:  At baseline, bipolar subjects demonstrated significant deficits on all three tasks as compared to healthy subjects, consistent with more impulsive responding in the bipolar manic/mixed group. In general, performance on the three behavioral tasks normalized upon switching to depression or developing euthymia. In contrast, BIS‐11 scores were elevated during mania and remained elevated as bipolar subjects developed depression or achieved euthymia.

Conclusions:  Bipolar I disorder patients demonstrate deficits on laboratory tests of various aspects of impulsivity when manic, as compared to healthy subjects, that largely normalize with recovery and switching into depression. However, elevated BIS‐11 scores persist across phases of illness. These findings suggest that impulsivity has both affective‐state dependent and trait components in bipolar disorder.
Morbidity in 303 first‐episode bipolar I disorder patients
Authors: Baldessarini Ross J , Salvatore Paola , Khalsa Hari‐Mandir Kaur , Gebre‐Medhin Priscilla , Imaz Harkaitz , González‐Pinto Ana , Perez Jesus , Cruz Núria , Maggini Carlo , Tohen Mauricio
Published: May 2010

Baldessarini RJ, Salvatore P, Khalsa H‐MK, Gebre‐Medhin P, Imaz H, González‐Pinto A, Perez J, Cruz N, Maggini C, Tohen M. Morbidity in 303 first‐episode bipolar I disorder patients. Bipolar Disord 2010: 12: 264–270. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objectives:  To test the hypotheses that: (i) depressive‐dysthymic‐dysphoric (D‐type) morbidity is more prevalent than manic‐hypomanic‐psychotic (M‐type) morbidity even from first episodes of bipolar I disorder (BPD‐I) and despite treatment; (ii) initial presentations predict later morbidity; (iii) morbidity varies internationally; and (iv) early and later morbidity are similar.

Methods:  We followed SCID‐based, DSM‐IV BPD‐I patients (n = 303) systematically and prospectively for two years to estimate the percent of weeks in specific morbid states from first lifetime major episodes.

Results:  Total morbidity accounted for 44% of the first two years, and D‐type exceeded M‐type illnesses by 2.1‐fold (30%/14%) among morbidities ranking: mixed states (major + minor) ≥ dysthymia ≥ mania ≥ major depression > hypomania > psychosis. In 164 cases, morbidities at 0.5–2.5 and 2.5–4.5 years were very similar. Depressive or mixed initial episodes predicted a 3.6‐fold excess of D‐type morbidity, and initial M‐type episodes predicted a 7.1‐fold excess of M‐type morbidity over two years. Morbidity in European (EU) sites was nearly half that in the U.S., and 22% greater overall among men than women. In five comparable studies, illness accounted for 54% of follow‐up time, and the ratio of D/M morbidity averaged 3.0.

Conclusions:  In accord with four midcourse studies, morbidity from BPD‐I onset, despite treatment by community standards, averaged 44%, was 68% D‐type morbidity, and was strongly predicted by first‐episode polarity. Lower morbidity in EU than U.S. sites may reflect differences in healthcare or social systems.
A reassessment of the role of simple seed traits in mortality following herbivore ingestion
Authors: D’hondt B. , Hoffmann M.
Published: May 2010

Grazing mammals are regarded as major vectors in seed dispersal of grassland plants, through seed ingestion and subsequent excretion (endozoochory). The (evolutionary) ecology underlying this dispersal mode is relatively poorly understood because there are limited data, among others, on how seed attributes perform in this process (and could thus be selected for). For seed mortality following ingestion, contrasting patterns described for the role of simple seed traits seem partly due to inadequate comparative analytical methods. We conducted a feeding experiment in which controlled seed quantities from 48 grassland herb and grass species were fed to cattle. Seed mass, length and shape measurements were related to seed mortality rate using phylogenetically independent contrasts, which account for taxonomic interdependence. The proportion of seeds surviving the digestive tract was generally low, but it reached 100%, with increased germination for some species. Neither seed size nor shape correlated significantly with mortality. Structural traits are likely to overrule these simple seed traits, as illustrated by high survival of species having water‐impermeable seeds. As this trait has interesting properties with respect to intraspecific variation and genetics, it could provide opportunities for inference on evolutionary consequences for this type of dispersal.
New phenotypes of the drought‐tolerant cbp20 Arabidopsis thaliana mutant have changed epidermal morphology
Authors: Jäger K. , Fábián A. , Tompa G. , Deák C. , Höhn M. , Olmedilla A. , Barnabás B. , Papp I.
Published: May 2010

This paper provides a detailed phenotypic analysis of the abscisic acid (ABA) hypersensitive Cap Binding Protein 20 (cbp20) mutant. Some hitherto undescribed changes were found in the tissue structure and epidermal morphology of this mutant. These include more and smaller cells in the epidermis, a thicker cuticle and more frequent occurrence of trichomes on leaf surfaces. Some of these traits may contribute to the physiological processes responsible for the water‐saving behaviour of the mutant. Abnormal spatial patterns between stomatal pore complexes were also found on various organs of the mutant. All these observations indicate profoundly disturbed development of epidermal tissue in the cbp20 mutant, which has not previously been reported for this class of mutants. A potential connection between the new phenotypes and disturbed miRNA metabolism and mRNA splicing of the mutant is discussed.
Surface Morphology of the Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) Tongue
Authors: Crole M. R. , Soley J. T.
Published: May 2010

With 18 figures

Despite numerous morphological studies on the avian tongue, very little meaningful information is currently available on the surface features of this organ using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The only SEM description of a ratite tongue is that of the ostrich, although the descriptions are brief and superficial. This SEM study of the emu tongue confirms and compliments the comprehensive macroscopic and histological data available for this commercially important species. The tongues of five emus were fixed, cut into blocks representing the dorsum, ventrum and root and routinely processed for SEM. Three morphologically distinguishable surface types (desquamating, non‐desquamating and lymphoepithelium) related to peculiarities in surface cell shape and status (desquamating or non‐desquamating), cell surface modifications and distribution of gland openings, and which showed a regional distribution, could be identified. Three basic types of cell surface modifications (microplicae, microvilli and cilia) were observed, with microvilli and cilia being described for the first time in an avian tongue by SEM. The desquamating surface cells fulfil a mechanical protective function, whereas the microplicae, microvilli and cilia appear to be adaptations for the trapping and spreading of mucus which also fulfils a protective function.
Flatfish at seamount hydrothermal vents show strong genetic divergence between volcanic arcs
Authors: Tunnicliffe Verena , Koop Ben F. , Tyler Jennifer , So Stacy
Published: May 2010

Hydrothermal vents near the summits of seamounts in Western Pacific volcanic arcs foster dense populations of flatfishes, a group otherwise unknown at vents. We examined genetic divergence among populations of a symphurine tonguefish described as Symphurus thermophilus Munroe & Hashimoto from sites up to 6000 km apart in the Western Pacific to explore connectivity patterns among seamounts. Average genetic divergence between individuals from the Mariana Arc and the Tonga‐Kermadec Arcs was 14.2% (COI) and 9.0% (16S), whereas within‐arc divergences were <0.3%. We found that the Tonga‐Kermadec individuals represent a cryptic species, Symphurus sp. A, displaying similar phenotypic features and behaviour to the Mariana Arc S. thermophilus. We also sequenced another distinctive symphurine species; Symphurus sp. B. Collections and image records from three expeditions to the Tonga and Kermadec arcs revealed characteristics of the distribution, dispersion, behaviour and morphology of these flatfish species. These two new Symphurus species inhabit vents where native sulphur occurs in excess and depths are <600 m. Substratum range of Symphurus sp. A was wide, including mussel beds, rock surfaces and sediments in densities that may exceed 100 m−2. Reproductive females were present. The complex and diverse nature of volcanic settings of hydrothermalism introduces a wide variety of habitat conditions that likely augments diversity of faunas on seamounts in distinct biogeographic provinces.
Frontal fibrosing alopecia associated with generalized hair loss
Authors: Armenores Paul , Shirato Kyoko , Reid Catherine , Sidhu Shireen
Published: May 2010

We present six cases of frontal fibrosing alopecia, in which generalized hair loss is a feature. Although this variant of lichen planopilaris has been reported clinically in a number of patients, there is very little histological evidence that the condition exists in peripheral sites. We believe this pattern of involvement may be more common than is reported, and have provided histological evidence of lichen planopilaris being present at sites beyond the scalp and eyebrows.
Parathyroid hormone‐related peptide‐producing non‐familial pheochromocytoma in a child
Authors: Takeda Keisuke , Hara Noboru , Kawaguchi Makoto , Nishiyama Tsutomu , Takahashi Kota
Published: May 2010

We experienced a case of parathyroid hormone‐related peptide (PTHrP)‐producing pheochromocytoma, which was found in a 12‐year‐old boy with hypercalcemia. The leading symptom was abdominal pain, and severe hypertension and tachycardia were noticed at the initial visit. His medical and familial histories were unremarkable. Laboratory examinations showed hypercalcemia (3.3 mmol/L of serum‐calcium). Computed tomography showed a heterogeneous mass measuring 5.0 cm in the right adrenal gland, which had abnormal uptake with 123‐I metaiodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy. Serum/urine catecholamines were highly elevated, and serum PTHrP also increased (1.4 pmol/L). The patient underwent laparoscopic right adrenalectomy. The tumor was histologically diagnosed as typical pheochromocytoma and the expression of PTHrP was confirmed with immunohistochemistry. The serum PTHrP level was normalized after surgery. He was free of disease postoperatively for 12 months. There has been no described pediatric patient with PTHrP‐producing pheochromocytoma. We showed evidence that the present tumor is a complex neoplasm involving various neuroendocrine activities with the dual‐lineage differentiation.
Further survey of Australian ophthalmologist's diabetic retinopathy management: did practice adhere to National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines?
Authors: Yuen Joshua , Clark Antony , Ng Jonathon Q , Morlet Nigel , Keeffe Jill , Taylor Hugh R , Preen David B
Published: May 2010

Abstract

Background:  To compare the self‐reported management of diabetic retinopathy by Australian ophthalmologists with the 1997 National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) guidelines.

Methods:  Self‐reported cross‐sectional survey of patterns of practice. Questionnaires were sent to all Australian ophthalmologists, comprising questions regarding professional details, diabetic retinopathy screening attitudes/practices and specific hypothetical management scenarios. Data were analysed using Chi‐squared and adjusted logistic regression.

Result:  480 of the 751 (64%) eligible Australian ophthalmologists participated. The majority (80%, n = 376) reported they consistently reviewed patient's glycaemic control, but only 55% and 41% regularly reviewed blood pressure and serum cholesterol control, respectively. Ophthalmologists generally adhered to NHMRC‐recommended screening intervals, although only 38% agreed with the guidelines relating to screening of pre‐pubertal diabetic patients. Fluorescein angiogram was used more than recommended, especially for mild non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy where 45% of respondents used this investigation. Practice duration >15 years was associated with more regular fluorescein angiogram use (OR = 3.74; 95% CI: 2.53–5.53, P < 0.001). In the clinical scenarios where clinically significant macular oedema was concurrently present with cataract or proliferative diabetic retinopathy, >26% referred to retinal subspecialists for management; 85% of the remaining ophthalmologists performed macular laser first. Respondents with practice duration >15 years were 7.8 times (P = 0.001) more likely to perform cataract surgery first.

Conclusion:  Diabetic retinopathy management guidelines were generally well followed by Australian ophthalmologists. However, areas of practice variation existed including frequent use of fluorescein angiogram. Significant proportion of practitioners referred diabetic patients to retinal subspecialists, who were more likely to adhere to guideline recommendations. Ophthalmologists with greater experience (>15 years) were more likely to employ practices differing from NHMRC recommendations.
Clinical characteristics and treatment delay of cerebral infarction in tuberculous meningitis
Authors: Sheu J.‐J. , Hsu C.‐Y. , Yuan R.‐Y. , Yang C.‐C.
Published: May 2010

Background: Cerebral infarction (CI) complicating tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is a major risk factor of permanent disability. The prevention of this complication is an important issue in the quality care of TBM patients.

Aim: Our aim was to evaluate the clinical characteristics of TBM patients with CI.

Methods: Ninety‐one adult patients with TBM were studied between 1999 and 2007. Clinical, neuroradiological and cerebrospinal fluid data of patients with CI were compared with those without CI.

Results: Thirty of the 91 patients had CI, including symptomatic CI occurring before admission in 10 patients, symptomatic CI occurring during hospitalisation in four and silent CI in 16 patients. When compared with non‐CI patients, patients with CI were younger and associated with focal weakness on presentation, and had basal meningeal enhancement and hydrocephalus on brain images. Prolonged doctor delays of antituberculosis and steroid therapies, neurosurgical intervention, focal weakness and dementia as sequelae, and poor outcomes were associated with patients with CI than non‐CI patients.

Conclusion: Contrast‐enhanced brain imaging is helpful to explore the basal meningeal enhancement in CI patients, and contributes to early diagnosis and treatment of TBM. Early antituberculosis and steroid therapies may help prevent CI in TBM patients.
Ecological competition favours cooperation in termite societies
Authors: Korb Judith , Foster Kevin R.
Published: May 2010

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 754–760

Conflict and competition lie at the heart of the theories of both ecology and sociobiology. Despite this, the interaction between societal conflicts on one hand and ecological competition on the other remains poorly understood. Here, we investigate this interaction in two ecologically similar sympatric termite species, Cryptotermes secundus Hill and Cryptotermes domesticus Haviland. We manipulated the incidence of king and queen loss (within‐species conflict) and the incidence of cohabitation of the two species (between‐species competition) in a series of 2 year experiments. Manipulation alone had no detectable effect and most colonies survived the 2‐year period. In contrast, promoting both within‐ and between‐species conflict caused the great majority of colonies to die. Moreover, the resulting colony loss was much more rapid in the conflict‐ridden C. domesticus than in C. secundus. Our data suggest that ecological competition among species can greatly exacerbate the impact of internal conflicts, thereby promoting the evolution of within‐species cooperation.
Host–parasitoid population density prediction using artificial neural networks: diamondback moth and its natural enemies
Authors: Tonnang Henri E. Z. , Nedorezov Lev V. , Owino John O. , Ochanda Horace , Löhr Bernhard
Published: May 2010

An integrated pest management (IPM) system incorporating the introduction and field release of Diadegma semiclausum (Hellén), a parasitoid of diamondback moth (DBM) Plutella xylostella (L.), comprising the worst insect pest of the cabbage family, has been developed in Kenya to replace the pesticides‐only approach.

Mathematical modelling using differential equations has been used in theoretical studies of host–parasitoid systems. Although, this method helps in gaining an understanding of the system's dynamics, it is generally less accurate when used for prediction. The artificial neural network (ANN) approach was therefore chosen to aid prediction.

The ANN methodology was applied to predict the population density of the DBM and D. semiclausum, its larval parasitoid. Two data sets, each from different release areas in the Kenya highlands, and both collected during a 3‐year period after the release of the parasitoid, were used in the present study. Two ANN models were developed using these data.

The ANN approach gave satisfactory results for DBM and for D. semiclausum. Sensitivity analysis suggested that pest populations may be naturally controlled by rainfall.

The ANN provides a powerful tool for predicting host–parasitoid population densities and made few assumptions on the field data. The approach allowed the use of data collected at any appropriate scale of the system, bypassing the assumptions and uncertainties that could have occurred when parameters are imported from other systems. The methodology can be explored with respect to the development of tools for monitoring and forecasting the population densities of a pest and its natural enemies. In addition, the model can be used to evaluate the relative effectiveness of the natural enemies and to investigate augmentative biological control strategies.