bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional enhancement and protection of dopaminergic terminals by RAB3B overexpression
Authors: Chung Chee Yeun , Koprich James B. , Hallett Penelope J. , Isacson Ole
Published: December 2009

In Parkinson's disease (PD), dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra (SN, A9) are particularly vulnerable, compared to adjacent DA neurons within the ventral tegmental area (VTA, A10). Here, we show that in rat and human, one RAB3 isoform, RAB3B, has higher expression levels in A10 compared to A9 neurons. RAB3 is a monomeric GTPase protein that is highly enriched in synaptic vesicles and is involved in synaptic vesicle trafficking and synaptic transmission, disturbances of which have been implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases, including PD. These findings prompted us to further investigate the biology and neuroprotective capacity of RAB3B both in vitro and in vivo. RAB3B overexpression in human dopaminergic BE (2)-M17 cells increased neurotransmitter content, [
3
H] dopamine uptake, and levels of presynaptic proteins. AAV-mediated RAB3B overexpression in A9 DA neurons of the rat SN increased striatal dopamine content, number and size of synaptic vesicles, and levels of the presynaptic proteins, confirming in vitro findings. Measurement of extracellular DOPAC, a dopamine metabolite, following
l
-DOPA injection supported a role for RAB3B in enhancing the dopamine storage capacity of synaptic terminals. RAB3B overexpression in BE (2)-M17 cells was protective against toxins that simulate aspects of PD in vitro, including an oxidative stressor 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) and a proteasome inhibitor MG-132. Furthermore, RAB3B overexpression in rat SN both protected A9 DA neurons and resulted in behavioral improvement in a 6-OHDA retrograde lesion model of PD. These results suggest that RAB3B improves dopamine handling and storage capacity at presynaptic terminals, and confers protection to vulnerable DA neurons.
Sequential formation of ion pairs during activation of a sodium channel voltage sensor
Authors: DeCaen Paul G. , Yarov-Yarovoy Vladimir , Sharp Elizabeth M. , Scheuer Todd , Catterall William A.
Published: December 2009

Electrical signaling in biology depends upon a unique electromechanical transduction process mediated by the S4 segments of voltage-gated ion channels. These transmembrane segments are driven outward by the force of the electric field on positively charged amino acid residues termed “gating charges,” which are positioned at three-residue intervals in the S4 transmembrane segment, and this movement is coupled to opening of the pore. Here, we use the disulfide-locking method to demonstrate sequential ion pair formation between the fourth gating charge in the S4 segment (R4) and two acidic residues in the S2 segment during activation. R4 interacts first with E70 at the intracellular end of the S2 segment and then with D60 near the extracellular end. Analysis with the Rosetta Membrane method reveals the 3-D structures of the gating pore as these ion pairs are formed sequentially to catalyze the S4 transmembrane movement required for voltage-dependent activation. Our results directly demonstrate sequential ion pair formation that is an essential feature of the sliding helix model of voltage sensor function but is not compatible with the other widely discussed gating models.
Hospital-Acquired Staphylococcus aureus Infections at Texas Children's Hospital, 2001–2007
Authors: Hultén Kristina G. , Kaplan Sheldon L. , Lamberth Linda B. , Slimp Katherine , Hammerman Wendy A. , Carrillo-Marquez Maria , Starke Jeffrey R. , Versalovic James , Mason Edward O.
Published: December 2009

Objective.

To document the introduction of the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) USA300 clone into a children's hospital. Current molecular epidemiology of infections due to the USA300 strain of MRSA in the pediatric healthcare setting remains obscure.

Design.

Retrospective study of patients with hospital-acquired S. aureus infection during the period from August 1, 2001, through July 31, 2007, at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston.

Methods.

Patients with hospital-acquired S. aureus infection from whom an isolate was available for molecular analysis were included. Clinical information was obtained from patient medical records and the electronic hospital information system. S. aureus isolates underwent antimicrobial susceptibility testing, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, and polymerase chain reaction testing for staphylococcal cassette chromosome (SCC) mec, agr, the diamine N-acetyltransferase gene, and the Panton-Valentine leukocidin genes (pvl).

Results.

Of 242 patients with hospital-acquired S. aureus infection, 147 (61%) had methicillin-susceptible S. aureus infection. Of the 95 MRSA isolates causing hospital-acquired infection, 69 (73%) were USA300 isolates, and that rate did not increase over time. Skin and soft tissue infection (P < .001), onset of infection less than 10 days after admission (P = .007), and lack of comorbidities (P < .001) were associated with hospital-acquired MRSA infection caused by the USA300 strain, compared with other isolates (hereafter referred to as non-USA300 isolates). Nine of 10 patients with a S. aureus infection at the time of death were infected with a non-USA300 strain. USA300 carried SCCmec IV, agr I, the diamine N-acetyl transferase gene, and pvl. USA300 isolates were more susceptible to clindamycin, gentamicin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole than were other non-USA300 isolates (P < .01).

Conclusions.

In our patient population, the annual numbers of observed cases of hospital-acquired S. aureus infection have remained constant. USA300 was the most common clone and, compared with other non-USA300 MRSA isolates, was associated with skin and soft tissue infection, early onset of infection after admission, and greater susceptibility to antimicrobial agents.
MARTA: a suite of Java-based tools for assigning taxonomic status to DNA sequences
Authors: Horton Matthew , Bodenhausen Natacha , Bergelson Joy
Published: December 2009

Motivation: We have created a suite of Java-based software to better provide taxonomic assignments to DNA sequences. We anticipate that the program will be useful for protistologists, virologists, mycologists and other microbial ecologists. The program relies on NCBI utilities including the BLAST software and Taxonomy database and is easily manipulated at the command-line to specify a BLAST candidate's query-coverage or percent identity requirements; other options include the ability to set minimal consensus requirements (%) for each of the eight major taxonomic ranks (Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, …) and whether to consider lower scoring candidates when the top-hit lacks taxonomic classification.

Availability:  http://bergelson.uchicago.edu/software/marta

Contact:  mhorton@uchicago.edu; jbergels@midway.uchicago.edu

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Live shipment of immersed crabs Cancer pagurus from England to Portugal and recovery in stocking tanks: stress parameter characterization
Authors: Barrento Sara , Marques António , Vaz-Pires Paulo , Nunes Maria Leonor
Published: December 2009

Barrento, S., Marques, A., Vaz-Pires, P., and Nunes, M. L. 2010. Live shipment of immersed crabs Cancer pagurus from England to Portugal and recovery in stocking tanks: stress parameter characterization. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 67: 435–443. Cancer pagurus is commercially one of the most important crustaceans exploited in the UK and Ireland, but the main markets are in southern Europe, to where live edible crabs are transported. In this study, potential stressors during the live trade chain from England to Portugal were identified and related to changes in haemolymph parameters. Before their live transport, 60 crabs were tagged, their vigour was assessed, and their haemolymph was sampled; 30 crabs were placed in the bottom of a vivier-truck tank and the balance at the top (1 kg crab l−1 in a total of 700 kg). The sampling procedure was repeated after immersed live transport (58 h), and during subsequent recovery (6, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h) in seawater at Portuguese storage facilities. Haemolymph parameters included pH, d-glucose, l-lactate, and haemocyanine. Cumulative mortalities at the end of the experiment (96 h in recovery tanks) of bottom and top crabs were 8.9 and 10.7%, respectively. Vigour assessment predicted crab mortality well. The main stressors identified were poor handling; air exposure during unloading, and deficient transport conditions. d-Glucose and l-lactate increased during transport with acidification of the haemolymph. Concentration of l-lactate reached control levels after 24 h of recovery, but haemolymph remained acidic and hyperglycaemic even after 96 h. The transport conditions promoted anaerobiosis, so alternatives need to be considered.
Where Does the President Stand? Measuring Presidential Ideology
Authors: Treier Shawn
Published: December 2009

Although estimating the revealed preferences of members of Congress is straightforward, estimating the position of the president relative to Congress is not. Current estimates place the president as considerably more ideologically extreme than one would expect. These estimates, however, are very sensitive to the set of presidentialpositionsused in the roll call analyses for the 103rd through 109th Congresses. The president often obtains more moderate ideal point estimates relative to Congress when including positions based on signing bills into law.
A comparative analysis of molecular markers for the detection and identification of Borrelia spirochaetes in Ixodes ricinus
Authors: Wodecka Beata , Leońska Agata , Skotarczak Bogumiła
Published: December 2009

Borrelia burgdorferi
sensu
lato, carried by Ixodes ticks, is one of the most significant human pathogens, causing Lyme disease. As there is no standardized PCR method for detection and identification of spirochaete DNA, we carried out a comparative analysis using a set of complementary primers for three regions in the genomic DNA of these bacteria (genes fla and rrs and the non-coding rrs–rrlA region). DNA extracted from 579 Ixodes ricinus ticks was subjected to nested PCR. DNA of the examined spirochaetes was detected in 43 (7.4 %) lysates when the fla gene was used as a molecular marker, in 7 (1.2 %) lysates when using primers complementary to the rrs gene, and in 12 (2.1 %) lysates using primers complementary to the non-coding rrs–rrlA sequence. RFLP analysis based on the fla gene helped identify species from the B. burgdorferi
sensu
lato complex (B. burgdorferi
sensu
stricto, Borrelia afzelii, Borrelia garinii, Borrelia valaisiana), detect co-infections, and also identify Borrelia miyamotoi. Therefore, the fla gene is the most sensitive and specific molecular marker for the detection and identification of Borrelia spirochaetes in I. ricinus.
Typing of the pilus-protein-encoding FCT region and biofilm formationas novel parameters in epidemiological investigations of Streptococcuspyogenes isolates from various infection sites
Authors: Köller Thomas , Manetti Andrea Guido Oreste , Kreikemeyer Bernd , Lembke Cordula , Margarit Immaculada , Grandi Guido , Podbielski Andreas
Published: December 2009

Streptococcus pyogenesis an important human pathogen for whichan association between infection site and selected epidemiological or functionalmarkers has previously been suggested. However, the studies involved oftenused strains with an insufficiently defined clinical background and laboratoryhistory. Thus, the major goal of the present study was to investigate theserelationships in 183 prospectively collected, well-defined, low-passage isolatesfrom a North-East German centre for tertiary care. For each isolate the clinicalbackground (91 respiratory, 71 skin and 21 invasive isolates) andantibiotic-resistance pattern was recorded. All isolates were classified accordingto theiremmtype, antibiotic-resistance and PFGE pattern (SmaI restriction analysis of genomic DNA). As novel discriminatorymethods we performed a PCR-based typing of the pilus-protein-encoding FCTregion (FCT) and biofilm-formation phenotyping in various culturemedia. Forty-one isolates were found to be resistant to at least one of thetested antibiotics.emmtyping revealedemm28,emm12,emm1,emm4,emm89andemm2as themost frequent types in our collection. The novel FCT typing showed isolatesencoding FCT types 4 and 2 to be the most common. Overall 113 strains withunique combinations ofemmand FCT types, antibiotic-resistance andPFGE patterns were identified. The majority of all isolates revealed an associationof biofilm-formation capacity with growth media. Comparing all results forpotential associations, no correlation could be established between the anatomicalsite of isolation and theemmor the FCT type. There was no relationshipbetween biofilm formation andemmtype, antibiotic-resistance orPFGE patterns. However, a novel association between biofilm formation andFCT type became obvious among strains from our collection.
Classical RS1 and environmental RS1 elements in Vibrio cholerae O1 El Tor strains harbouring a tandem repeat of CTX prophage: revisiting Mozambique in 2005
Authors: Choi Seon Young , Lee Je Hee , Kim Eun Jin , Lee Hye Ri , Jeon Yoon-Seong , von Seidlein Lorenz , Deen Jaqueline , Ansaruzzaman M. , Lucas G. Marcelino E. S. , Barreto Avertino , Songane Francisco F. , Mondlane Catarina , Nair G. Balakrish , Czerkinsky Cecil , Clemens John D. , Chun Jongsik , Kim Dong Wook
Published: December 2009

Currently, Vibrio cholerae O1 serogroup biotype El Tor strains producing classical type cholera toxin (altered strains or El Tor variants) are prevalent in Asia and in Mozambique. Mozambican strains collected in 2004 contained a tandem repeat of CTX prophage on the small chromosome and each CTX prophage harboured the classical rstR and classical ctxB. We found that the majority of the strains collected in 2005 in Mozambique contained extra elements on the large chromosome in addition to the tandem repeat of CTX prophage on the small chromosome. New type RS1 elements RS1cla and RS1env, and a CTXenv with rstR
env and the classical ctxB were identified on the large chromosome of the Mozambican isolates collected in 2005.
Treponema denticola biofilm-induced expression of a bacteriophage, toxin–antitoxin systems and transposases
Authors: Mitchell Helen L. , Dashper Stuart G. , Catmull Deanne V. , Paolini Rita A. , Cleal Steven M. , Slakeski Nada , Tan Kheng H. , Reynolds Eric C.
Published: December 2009

Treponema denticola is an oral spirochaete that has been strongly associated with chronic periodontitis. The bacterium exists as part of a dense biofilm (subgingival dental plaque) accreted to the tooth. To determine T. denticola gene products important for persistence as a biofilm we developed a continuous-culture biofilm model and conducted a genome-wide transcriptomic analysis of biofilm and planktonic cells. A total of 126 genes were differentially expressed with a fold change of 1.5 or greater. This analysis identified the upregulation of putative prophage genes in the T. denticola 35405 genome. Intact bacteriophage particles were isolated from T. denticola and circular phage DNA was detected by PCR analysis. This represents the first, to our knowledge, functional bacteriophage isolated from T. denticola, which we have designated φtd1. In biofilm cells there was also an upregulation of genes encoding several virulence factors, toxin–antitoxin systems and a family of putative transposases. Together, these data indicate that there is a higher potential for genetic mobility in T. denticola when growing as a biofilm and that these systems are important for the biofilm persistence and therefore virulence of this bacterium.
Regulation of dsr genes encoding proteins responsible for the oxidation of stored sulfur in Allochromatium vinosum
Authors: Grimm Frauke , Dobler Nadine , Dahl Christiane
Published: December 2009

Sulfur globules are formed as obligatory intermediates during the oxidation of reduced sulfur compounds in many environmentally important photo- and chemolithoautotrophic bacteria. It is well established that the so-called Dsr proteins are essential for the oxidation of zero-valent sulfur accumulated in the globules; however, hardly anything is known about the regulation ofdsrgene expression. Here, we present a closer look at the regulation of thedsrgenes in the phototrophic sulfur bacteriumAllochromatium vinosum. Thedsrgenes are expressed in a reduced sulfur compound-dependent manner and neither sulfite, the product of the reverse-acting dissimilatory sulfite reductase DsrAB, nor the alternative electron donor malate inhibit the gene expression. Moreover, we show the oxidation of sulfur to sulfite to be the rate-limiting step in the oxidation of sulfur to sulfate as sulfate production starts concomitantly with the upregulation of the expression of thedsrgenes. Real-time RT-PCR experiments suggest that the genesdsrCanddsrSare additionally expressed from secondary internal promoters, pointing to a special function of the encoded proteins. Earlier structural analyses indicated the presence of a helix–turn–helix (HTH)-like motif in DsrC. We therefore assessed the DNA-binding capability of the protein and provide evidence for a possible regulatory function of DsrC.
High frequencies of less differentiated and more proliferative WT1‐specific CD8+ T cells in bone marrow in tumor‐bearing patients: An important role of bone marrow as a secondary lymphoid organ
Authors: Murao Ayako , Oka Yoshihiro , Tsuboi Akihiro , Elisseeva Olga A. , Tanaka‐Harada Yukie , Fujiki Fumihiro , Nakajima Hiroko , Nishida Sumiyuki , Hosen Naoki , Shirakata Toshiaki , Hashimoto Nobuyuki , Myoui Akira , Ueda Takafumi , Takeda Yoshito , Osaki Tadashi , Enomoto Takayuki , Yoshikawa Hideki , Kimura Tadashi , Oji Yusuke , Kawase Ichiro , Sugiyama Haruo
Published: December 2009

In tumor‐bearing patients, tumor‐associated antigen (TAA)‐specific CTLs are spontaneously induced as a result of immune response to TAAs and play an important role in anti‐tumor immunity. Wilms’ tumor gene 1 (WT1) is overexpressed in various types of tumor and WT1 protein is a promising pan‐TAA because of its high immunogenicity. In this study, to clarify the immune response to the WT1 antigen, WT1‐specific CD8+ T cells that were spontaneously induced in patients with solid tumor were comparatively analyzed in both bone marrow (BM) and peripheral blood (PB). WT1‐specific CD8+ T cells more frequently existed in BM than in PB, whereas frequencies of naïve (CCR7+ CD45RA+), central memory (CCR7+ CD45RA−), effector‐memory (CCR7− CD45RA−), and effector (CCR7− CD45RA+) subsets were not significantly different between BM and PB. However, analysis of these subsets for the expression of CD57 and CD28, which were associated with differentiation, revealed that effector‐memory and effector subsets of the WT1‐specific CD8+ T cells in BM had less differentiated phenotypes and more proliferative potential than those in PB. Furthermore, CD107a/b functional assay for WT1 peptide‐specific cytotoxic potential and carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester dilution assay for WT1 peptide‐specific proliferation also showed that WT1‐specific CD8+ T cells in BM were less cytotoxic and more proliferative in response to WT1 peptide than those in PB. These results implied that BM played an important role as a secondary lymphoid organ in tumor‐bearing patients. Preferential residence of WT1‐specific CD8+ T cells in BM could be, at least in part, explained by higher expression of chemokine receptor CCR5, whose ligand was expressed on BM fibroblasts on the WT1‐specific CD8+ T cells in BM, compared to those in PB. These results should provide us with an insight into WT1‐specific immune response in tumor‐bearing patients and give us an idea of enhancement of clinical response in WT1 protein‐targeted immunotherapy.

(Cancer Sci 2010; 101: 848–854)
Beyond competence: defining and promoting excellence in anaesthesia
Authors: Smith A. F. , Greaves J. D.
Published: December 2009

Recent trends in medical training have tended to focus on competence, in the sense of adequate performance, rather than excellence. This article reviews published literature and relevant concepts relating to excellence and professionalism from within anaesthesia, from medicine more generally and from outside the profession. A number of conceptual frameworks are presented that could be adapted for the promotion of excellence, and some of the necessary prerequisites for this promotion discussed.
Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection: difficulties in diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Feely N. M. , Waghorn D. J. , Dexter T. , Gallen I. , Chiodini P.
Published: December 2009

Immunocompromised patients who are infected with Strongyloides stercoralis may develop a potentially fatal auto‐infection syndrome characterised by non‐specific pulmonary and gastrointestinal symptoms and Gram negative sepsis. We present the case of one such patient who underwent a negative laparotomy for a presumed intra‐abdominal surgical catastrophe with a subsequent protracted stay on the intensive care unit. Once the diagnosis of strongyloidiasis was made, the patient was successfully treated with subcutaneous antihelminthic drugs. With appropriate screening for and eradication of strongyloides in those with immune compromise, or in those about to start immunosuppressive therapy, potentially fatal episodes of hyperinfection could be avoided. In the absence of screening, severe strongyloidiasis should be suspected in immunosuppressed individuals who have travelled to or resided in an endemic area and present with the characteristic features. Awareness of the signs of hyperinfection amongst those involved in acute care could prevent unnecessary morbidity and mortality in these patients.
The value of lung ultrasound monitoring in H1N1 acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Peris A. , Zagli G. , Barbani F. , Tutino L. , Biondi S. , Di Valvasone S. , Batacchi S. , Bonizzoli M. , Spina R. , Miniati M. , Pappagallo S. , Giovannini V. , Gensini G. F.
Published: December 2009

We present the case of a healthy young male who developed acute respiratory failure as a result of infection with influenza A/H1N1 of swine‐origin and in whom ventilatory support was optimised and recovery of lung function was monitored by the use of sequential chest ultrasound examinations. The potential pivotal role of bedside lung ultrasonography in H1N1‐induced respiratory failure is discussed.
Factors influencing parenting in early childhood: a prospective longitudinal study focusing on change
Authors: Waylen A. , Stewart‐Brown S.
Published: December 2009

Background Parenting influences child outcomes but does not occur in a vacuum. It is influenced by socio‐economic resources, parental health, and child characteristics. Our aim was to investigate the relative importance of these influences by exploring the relationship between changing parental health and socio‐economic circumstances and changes in parenting.

Methods Data collected from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children were used to develop an eight‐item parenting measure at 8 and 33 months. The measure covered warmth, support, rejection, and control and proved valid and reliable. Regression analysis examined changes in financial circumstance, housing tenure, marital status, social support, maternal health and depression, and their influence on parenting score. The final model controlled for maternal age, education, and baseline depression.

Results Most mothers reported warm, supportive parenting at both times. Maternal depression was the only variable for which both positive and negative change was associated with changes in parenting score. Less depression was associated with better parenting scores and more depression with worse parenting scores. Improvements in social support and maternal general health were both associated with improved parenting scores, but for neither of these variables was deterioration associated with deterioration in parenting scores. Worsening financial circumstances predicted deterioration in parenting score, but improvements were not predictive of improvements in parenting.

Conclusions Programmes aiming to improve parental health and social support are likely to return greater dividends with regard to improving parenting than programmes that aim to reduce family poverty.
On the accuracy of the ground force estimated in vibroseis acquisition
Authors: Saragiotis Christos , Scholtz Péter , Bagaini Claudio
Published: December 2009

For a linear elastic Earth the time derivative of the ground force is considered proportional to the far‐field wavelet. Under the assumption that the baseplate is stiff and the bending forces of the baseplate are negligible, the ground force is also approximated by the sum of the accelerations of the baseplate and the reaction mass weighted by the respective masses. Combining these two assumptions, the time derivative of the weighted sum is considered proportional to the far‐field wavelet. This result, often referred to as the far‐field wavelet assumption, although convenient and most often employed is not always valid. We explore its validity using the spectral harmonic ratios of recorded data, which are used extensively in data filtering and analysis of vibratory data. We show that the far‐field wavelet assumption fails particularly for harmonic components of even order. More compact soil after repeated shots further invalidates this assumption. Non‐linear modelling of the ground under the vibrator point may provide a direction towards solving this discrepancy. Finally, we describe a method for the estimation of the harmonic spectral ratios.
Selectivity of lynx proteins on insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens
Authors: Yang B. , Yao X. , Gu S. , Zhang Y. , Liu Z. , Zhang Y.
Published: December 2009

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are major excitatory neurotransmitter receptors in both vertebrates and invertebrates. Two lynx proteins (Nl‐lynx1 and Nl‐lynx2) have been identified in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens, which act as modulators on insect nAChRs. In the present study, two lynx proteins were found to act on the triplet receptor Nlα1/Nlα2/β2 expressed in Xenopus oocytes, increasing agonist‐evoked macroscopic currents, but not changing agonist sensitivity and desensitization properties. Nl‐lynx1 and Nl‐lynx2 increased Imax (maximum responses) of acetylcholine to 4.85‐fold and 2.40‐fold of that of Nlα1/Nlα2/β2 alone, and they also increased Imax of imidacloprid to 2.57‐fold and 1.25‐fold. Although, on another triplet nAChRs Nlα3/Nlα8/β2, Nl‐lynx2 increased Imax of acetylcholine and imidacloprid to 3.63‐fold and 2.16‐fold, Nl‐lynx1 had no effects on Imax of either acetylcholine or imidacloprid. The results demonstrate the selectivity of lynx proteins for different insect nAChR subtypes. This selectivity was also identified in native N. Lugens. Co‐immunoprecipitation was found between Nlα1/Nlα2‐containing receptors and both Nl‐lynx1 and Nl‐lynx2, but was only found between Nlα3/Nlα8‐containing receptors and Nl‐lynx2. When the previously identified Nlα1Y151S and Nlα3Y151S mutations were included (Nlα1Y151S/Nlα2/β2 and Nlα3Y151S/Nlα8/β2), the increase in Imax of imidacloprid, but not acetylcholine, caused by co‐expression of Nl‐lynx1 and Nl‐lynx2 was more noticeable than that of their wildtype counterparts. Taken together, these data suggest that two modulators, Nl‐lynx1 and Nl‐lynx2, might serve as an influencing factor in target site insensitivity in N. lugens, such as Y151S mutation.
Seasonal effects of Pacific‐based climate on recruitment in a predator‐limited large herbivore
Authors: Hegel Troy M. , Mysterud Atle , Ergon Torbjørn , Loe Leif Egil , Huettmann Falk , Stenseth Nils Chr.
Published: December 2009

1. Climate is an important factor influencing the population dynamics of large herbivores operating directly on individuals or through its effect on forage characteristics. However, the seasonal effect of climate may differ between forage‐ and predator‐limited populations because of a climatic influence on predation rates. The influence of climate on predator‐limited large herbivores is less well known than on forage‐limited populations. Further, the effect of Pacific‐based climate on large herbivore populations has been rarely assessed.

2. We investigated the effect of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), across different seasons, on recruitment in 10 populations (herds) of mountain‐dwelling caribou Rangifer tarandus caribou L. in the Yukon Territory, Canada. These low‐density populations occur in highly seasonal environments and are considered predator‐limited with high neonatal calf mortality. Hence, in most years females do not spend resources through lactational support during the summer and resource intake is devoted to self‐maintenance. We predicted that climate affecting environmental conditions at calving would have a strong effect on recruitment via its influence on predation rates. We also predicted that climatic conditions prior to conception could have an effect on recruitment through its influence on female fecundity. We modelled recruitment (n = 165) by seasonal PDO values using generalized linear mixed‐effects models with herd‐varying coefficients.

3. We found that recruitment variability was best explained by variation in winter climate (β = 0·110, SE = 0·007) prior to birth (in utero) and May climate (β = 0·013, SE = 0·006) at calving. There was little support for a pre‐conception climate effect influencing female body condition and hence fecundity. These results confirm that recruitment in these populations is limited by predation and that forage‐limitation is not a significant factor in their population dynamics. There was considerable variability in herd‐specific relationships between the PDO and recruitment. Incorporating herd‐specific characteristics, such as variable predator densities or terrain characteristics within a herd range, may shed greater light on the complex relationship between climate and ungulate population dynamics.
Native and exotic invasive plants have fundamentally similar carbon capture strategies
Authors: Leishman Michelle R. , Thomson Vivien P. , Cooke Julia
Published: December 2009

1. Leaf trait relationships of native and exotic invasive species from a range of habitats were compared to assess consistency across habitats and the role of disturbance.

2. One hundred and twenty‐two native and exotic species were sampled in five habitats in eastern Australia. Specific leaf area, foliar nitrogen (Nmass), assimilation rate (Amass) and dark respiration (Rmass) were measured for each species. Plants were classified into four types: native undisturbed, native disturbed, exotic invasive undisturbed and exotic invasive disturbed.

3. All traits were positively correlated and slopes were homogeneous within habitats. Significant differences between plant types in slope elevation were found in only two of 18 cases. There were significant shifts in group means along a common slope between plant types within habitats. These shifts were associated with disturbed vs. undisturbed areas, with plant types from disturbed areas having higher trait values.

4. Synthesis. Exotic invasive and native species do not have fundamentally different carbon capture strategies. The carbon capture strategy of a species is strongly associated with disturbance, with species from disturbed sites having traits that confer capacity for fast growth. Thus, differences between exotic invasives and natives may reflect differences in the environmental conditions of the sites where they occur rather than differences between exotic invasives and natives per se.
Which device is more accurate to determine the stability/mobility of dental implants? A human cadaver study
Authors: TÖZÜM T. F. , BAL B. T. , TURKYILMAZ I. , GÜLAY G. , TULUNOGLU I.
Published: December 2009

Summary  Non‐invasive devices including resonance frequency (RF) analysis and mobility measuring (MM) damping capacity assessment are used to measure implant stability/mobility. The aims of the study were to compare the primary stability of implant inserted into extraction sockets by using RF with cable, RF wireless and new wireless MM device, to clarify the relation between these devices and to understand the correlations between peri‐implant bone levels and implant stability. A total of 30 screw‐type implants (3·75 × 11 and 4·2 × 11 mm) were inserted into extraction sockets of eight mandibular pre‐molar regions of human cadavers. The primary stability of implants was measured by three devices after insertion. Peri‐implant vertical defects were created in millimetre increments ranging between 0 and 5 mm, and stability/mobility of implants were analysed. At placement, the mean implant stability quotient of RF with cable, RF wireless and MM device values was 46 ± 1, 57·8 ± 9 and −5·4 ± 1, respectively. Statistical correlations were demonstrated between these devices (P = 0·001). Statistically significant differences were presented for all peri‐implant detects ranging between 0 and 5 mm for RF with cable and RF wireless at all increments. However, only a significant decrease was found between 0 and 1 mm defects, and 4 and 5 mm defects in MM device. Although RF with cable and RF wireless seem to be suitable to detect peri‐implant bone loss around implants in 1 mm increments, the new MM device may not be suitable to detect the 1 mm peri‐implant bone changes in human dried cadaver mandibles.
Endothelial L‐selectin ligand expression in nasal polyps
Authors: Ebbens F. A. , Toppila‐Salmi S. K. , Renkonen J. A. , Renkonen R. L. O. , Mullol J. , Van Drunen C. M. , Fokkens W. J.
Published: December 2009

Background:  L‐selectins on leukocytes and their counter‐receptors on endothelial cells have been shown to be involved in leukocyte recruitment in chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps (NP).

Objectives:  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the expression level of functionally active endothelial L‐selectin ligands in NP obtained from patients with NP of different etiology [simple NP, antro‐choanal polyps (ACP) and cystic fibrosis (CF) NP] and inferior turbinate specimens of healthy controls and to compare these levels to the presence of various leukocyte subsets.

Methods:  Nasal polyp specimens and healthy nasal mucosa specimens were obtained from patients undergoing surgery and were immunohistochemically stained with monoclonal antibodies detecting CD34, sialyl Lewis x (sLex) of sulfated extended core 1 lactosamines and various leukocyte subsets.

Results:  All NP are characterized by a decrease in the number of CD34+ vessels. The number of eosinophils and the percentage of vessels expressing endothelial sulfated sLex epitopes is upregulated in all groups of simple NP. Tissue eosinophilia is increased in those patients with increased disease severity (acetyl salicylic acid intolerance), but the percentage of endothelial sulfated sLex epitopes is not. Results on CF NP are similar to those observed for simple NP. Antro‐choanal polyps, on the contrary, are characterized by low numbers of tissue eosinophils and relatively few vessels expressing endothelial sulfated sLex epitopes.

Conclusions:  Our results suggest that functionally active L‐selectin ligands might play a role in guiding leukocyte traffic into NP in patients with simple NP and CF NP but not ACP.
Time trends in the prevalence of peanut allergy: three cohorts of children from the same geographical location in the UK
Authors: Venter C. , Hasan Arshad S. , Grundy J. , Pereira B. , Bernie Clayton C. , Voigt K. , Higgins B. , Dean T.
Published: December 2009

Background:  This article investigated the prevalence of peanut allergy in three cohorts of children born in the same geographical location, Isle of Wight, UK and seeks to determine whether the prevalence of peanut allergy has changed between 1994 and 2004.

Methods:  Three cohorts of children (age 3–4 years) born on the Isle of Wight, were assessed for peanut allergy and the outcomes compared: Cohort A: Born in 1989; reviewed at 4 years of age (n = 2181).

Cohort B: Born between 1994 and 1996; reviewed between 3 and 4 years of age (n = 1273).

Cohort C: Born between 2001 and 2002; reviewed at 3 years of age (n = 891).

Results:  Peanut sensitization increased significantly from 1.3% in Cohort A to 3.3% (P = 0.003) in Cohort B before falling back to 2.0% in Cohort C (P = 0.145). Similarly, clinical peanut allergy increased significantly from 0.5% in Cohort A to 1.4% (P = 0.023) in Cohort B, with a subsequent fall to 1.2% in Cohort C (P = 0.850).

Conclusions:  Our data from three cohorts of 3‐ to 4‐year‐old children born in the same geographical area shows that peanut allergy prevalence has changed over time. Peanut sensitization and reported allergy in children born in 1994–1996 increased from 1989 but seems to have stabilized or slightly decreased since the late 1990s, although not significant.
A novel nonsense mutation in CUL4B gene in three brothers with X‐linked mental retardation syndrome
Authors: Badura‐Stronka M , Jamsheer A , Materna‐Kiryluk A , Sowińska A , Kiryluk K , Budny B , Latos‐Bieleńska A
Published: December 2009

Badura‐Stronka M, Jamsheer A, Materna‐Kiryluk A, Sowińska A, Kiryluk K, Budny B, Latos‐Bieleńska A. A novel nonsense mutation in CUL4B gene in three brothers with X‐linked mental retardation syndrome.

Cabezas syndrome (MIM 300354) is a recently identified syndromic form of X‐linked mental retardation (XLMR) caused by mutations in the CUL4B gene. In total, nine XLMR families carrying mutations in the CUL4B gene have been described to date. Here, we present a detailed clinical phenotype of three affected brothers of Polish descent. Based on the symptoms, we made a clinical diagnosis of Cabezas syndrome, which was subsequently confirmed by identification of a novel nonsense mutation (c.2107A→T, p.703K→X) in exon 18 of the CUL4B gene. The mutation was inherited from an asymptomatic mother and was present in all three affected brothers. The patients presented with typical features of Cabezas syndrome, such as severe mental retardation, speech impairment, hyperactivity, seizures, intention tremor, inguinal hernia, small feet, and craniofacial dysmorphism. In addition to previously described symptoms, syndactyly of the second and third toes and skin manifestations (hyperhydrosis and keratosis pilaris) were present in our cases. Our report provides further support that Cabezas syndrome is a recognizable syndromic form of XLMR. We conclude that the CUL4B gene should be screened in males with severe speech impairment and primary intention tremor, especially if characteristic facial dysmorphism is also present.
Effect of galls induced byEndocronartium harknessiion stem hydraulic conductivity and growth of lodgepole pine
Authors: Wolken J. M. , Blenis P. V.
Published: December 2009

To test the hypothesis that galls resulting from infection by western gall rust [Endocronartium harknessii(J. P. Moore) Y. Hiratsuka] on lodgepole pine [Pinus contortaDougl. ex Loud.] create hydraulic constrictions that reduce tree growth, the hydraulic conductivity (Kψ; m2s−1Pa−1), leaf area (AL) and sapwood area (AS) were measured on 6‐ to 15‐year‐old trees having galls encircling 0–100% of the stem. Increases in gall encirclement were accompanied by decreases inKψ, foliar nitrogen concentration,ALandAS, although theAL:ASratio remained constant. Dye flow patterns through galled stem sections indicated that water moved primarily through the non‐galled portions of the stem. In a second field study, xylem and phloem wounds were applied to 13‐year‐old galled and non‐galled trees on either the galled or non‐galled side of the tree. Although both galls and xylem wounds reducedKψ, radial and height growth were unaffected. In aggregate the two experiments showed that although trees are quite tolerant to small galls and short term reductions inKψ, the disruption of water movement by larger galls may be sufficient to initiate a chain of events leading to tree death, especially in very dense stands with high levels of intraspecific competition.
Epidemiology of Armillaria root disease in Douglas‐fir plantations in the cedar‐hemlock zone of the southern interior of British Columbia
Authors: Morrison D. J.
Published: December 2009

Results are presented from several studies on the epidemiology of Armillaria ostoyae in Douglas‐fir plantations in the interior cedar‐hemlock (ICH) biogeoclimatic zone of British Columbia. Two plantations were monitored for mortality by A. ostoyae and other agents for 35 years after establishment. In these and other plantations ranging in age from 7 to 32 years, one or more of the following factors were determined: source of inoculum, mode of spread and characteristics of lesions on roots of excavated trees; symptom expression in relation to tree age and damage to the root system and years from initial infection to death on trees killed by the fungus. Mortality from A. ostoyae began in both plantations about 5 years after planting, reaching 30% in one and 11% in the other after 35 years. The spatial pattern of mortality was similar to that reported from New Zealand, France and South Africa; however, the temporal pattern differed, beginning later and, instead of declining, continuing at a nearly constant rate to the present. To age 10, nearly all infections were initiated by rhizomorphs; as plantations aged, the proportion of infections occurring at root–root contacts increased. In seven plantations, in moist and wet subzones of the ICH, from 23 to 52% of Douglas‐firs had root lesions, with the higher incidences occurring on moist sites. The occurrence of aboveground symptoms, reduced leader growth and basal resinosis, was related to the percentage of root length colonized by A. ostoyae on trees with more than 30% of root length killed. Average time from infection to death increased from 1 to 2 years at age 6 to 22 years at age 33. The outlook for timber yield from Douglas‐fir plantations in the cedar‐hemlock zone is discussed. Management alternatives for reducing damage from A. ostoyae when regenerating sites are reviewed.
Mutation screening and assessment of the effect of genetic variations on expression and RNA editing of serotonin receptor 2C in the human brain
Authors: Bundo Miki , Iwamoto Kazuya , Yamada Kazuo , Yoshikawa Takeo , Kato Tadafumi
Published: December 2009

Aim:  Serotonin receptor 2C (HTR2C) has been postulated as being involved in the etiology or pathophysiology of mental disorders such as bipolar disorder, major depression and schizophrenia. We previously revealed the altered mRNA expression and RNA editing of HTR2C in the postmortem brains of patients with mental disorders. Here we examined the relationship between genetic variations and expression level or RNA editing level of HTR2C in the human brain.

Methods:  We performed mutation screening of the HTR2C gene by sequencing all exons, exon–intron boundaries, and promoter region in the same cohort used for expression and RNA editing studies (n = 58). Using the detected genetic variations, we examined the relationship between genetic variations and expression or RNA editing level.

Results and conclusion:  We did not find novel mutations or single nucleotide polymorphisms that were specific to patients. Genotype and haplotype‐based analyses revealed that genetic variations of HTR2C did not account for observed altered expression or RNA editing level of HTR2C in the brain.
Clearance after vasectomy with a single semen sample containing < than 100 000 immotile sperm/mL: analysis of 1073 patients
Authors: Korthorst Ruben A. , Consten Dimitri , Van Roijen J. Herman
Published: December 2009

Study Type – Diagnostic (non‐consecutive) Level of Evidence 3b

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a new semen analysis protocol after vasectomy, where clearance is given to patients who provide a single semen sample with <100 000 immotile sperm/mL at ≥3 months after vasectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1 July 2005 and 31 March 2008, 1073 men provided a first semen sample at ≥3 months after vasectomy. Semen was first evaluated on a wet‐slide preparation. Those samples with no (‘azoospermia’) or sporadic immotile spermatozoa could be cleared without further analysis. Samples with motile sperm were immediately labelled as potentially fertile, while those with a significant number of immotile sperm were re‐analysed using a Neubauer haemocytometer. All samples with <100 000 immotile sperm/mL were cleared.

RESULTS

Of men providing semen at 3 months after vasectomy, 96% could be cleared. No sperm were seen (‘azoospermia’) in 51.3% of samples, and 44.7% of samples contained <100 000 immotile sperm. No paternity has been reported in the cleared group after a follow‐up of at least 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

A protocol stipulating that patients can be cleared after a single semen sample containing <100 000 immotile sperm/mL at ≥3 months after vasectomy is safe and dramatically reduces the number of men who cannot be cleared at 3 months after vasectomy.
Female sexual dysfunction in urological patients: findings from a major metropolitan area in the USA
Authors: Elsamra Sammy , Nazmy Michael , Shin David , Fisch Harry , Sawczuk Ihor , Fromer Debra
Published: December 2009

Study Type – Symptom prevalence (prospective cohort) Level of Evidence 1b

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of and risk factors for female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in a practice focused mainly on female urology.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A modified version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used to assess the prevalence of FSD in 587 patients who completed the questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors.

RESULTS

The prevalence of FSD was 63%; age, menopausal status and usage of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were statistically significant risk factors for FSD.

CONCLUSIONS

FSD is highly prevalent in this population of patients and screening female urological patients for FSD should be considered.