bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Necrotrophic Effectors from Stagonospora nodorum and Corresponding Host Sensitivities in Winter Wheat Germplasm in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Crook A. D. , Friesen T. L. , Liu Z. H. , Ojiambo P. S. , Cowger C.
Published: April 2012

Stagonospora nodorum blotch (SNB), caused by the necrotrophic fungus Stagonospora nodorum (teleomorph: Phaeosphaeria nodorum), is among the most common diseases of winter wheat in the United States. New opportunities in resistance breeding have arisen from the recent discovery of several necrotrophic effectors (NEs, also known as host-selective toxins) produced by S. nodorum, along with their corresponding host sensitivity (Snn) genes. Thirty-nine isolates of S. nodorum collected from wheat debris or grain from seven states in the southeastern United States were used to investigate the production of NEs in the region. Twenty-nine cultivars with varying levels of resistance to SNB, representing 10 eastern-U.S. breeding programs, were infiltrated with culture filtrates from the S. nodorum isolates in a randomized complete block design. Three single-NE Pichia pastoris controls, two S. nodorum isolate controls, and six Snn-differential wheat controls were also used. Cultivar–isolate interactions were visually evaluated for sensitivity at 7 days after infiltration. Production of NEs was detected in isolates originating in each sampled state except Maryland. Of the 39 isolates, 17 produced NEs different from those previously characterized in the upper Great Plains region. These novel NEs likely correspond to unidentified Snn genes in Southeastern wheat cultivars, because NEs are thought to arise under selection pressure from genes for resistance to biotrophic pathogens of wheat cultivars that differ by geographic region. Only 3, 0, and 23% of the 39 isolates produced SnToxA, SnTox1, and SnTox3, respectively, by the culture-filtrate test. A Southern dot-blot test showed that 15, 74, and 39% of the isolates carried the genes for those NEs, respectively; those percentages were lower than those found previously in larger international samples. Only two cultivars appeared to contain known Snn genes, although half of the cultivars displayed sensitivity to culture filtrates containing unknown NEs. Effector sensitivity was more frequent in SNB-susceptible cultivars than in moderately resistant (MR) cultivars (P = 0.008), although some susceptible cultivars did not exhibit sensitivity to NEs produced by isolates in this study and some MR cultivars were sensitive to NEs of multiple isolates. Our results suggest that NE sensitivities influence but may not be the only determinant of cultivar resistance to S. nodorum. Specific knowledge of NE and Snn gene frequencies in this region can be used by wheat breeding programs to improve SNB resistance.
Care for kin: within-group relatedness and allomaternal care are positively correlated and conserved throughout the mammalian phylogeny
Authors: Briga Michael , Pen Ido , Wright Jonathan
Published: April 2012

With an increasing amount of data becoming available, comparative analyses have called attention to the associations between cooperative breeding, monogamy and relatedness. We focus here upon the association between allomaternal care and relatedness among females within a social unit. Previous studies found a positive association, but such results date back to before molecular tools were in common use, they considered only a few mammalian orders, neglected phylogenetic clustering and/or did not correct for group sizes. Here, we use molecular data on relatedness from 44 species of mammals to investigate the phylogenetic clustering of, and the association between, allomaternal care and relatedness among females within a social unit. We find (i) a strong phylogenetic signal for allomaternal care and a moderate one for relatedness and group size, and (ii) a positive association between relatedness and allomaternal care, even when correcting for the smaller than average group sizes in species with allomaternal care. We also find that, in species without allomaternal care, adult females often live with unrelated females even when groups are small. We discuss these results in the light of recent evidence for the role of kin selection and the monogamy hypothesis in cooperative breeding.
Antifungal activity in thrips soldiers suggests a dual role for this caste
Authors: Turnbull Christine , Caravan Holly , Chapman Thomas , Nipperess David , Dennison Siobhan , Schwarz Michael , Beattie Andrew
Published: April 2012

The social insect soldier is perhaps the most widely known caste, because it often exhibits spectacular weapons, such as highly enlarged jaws or reinforced appendages, which are used to defend the colony against enemies ranging in size from wasps to anteaters. We examined the function of the enlarged forelimbs of soldiers (both male and female) of the eusocial, gall-inhabiting insect
Kladothrips intermedius
, and discovered that they have little impact on their ability to repel the specialized invading thrips
Koptothrips
species. While the efficacy of the enlarged forelimb appears equivocal, we show that soldiers secrete strong antifungal compounds capable of controlling the specialized insect fungal pathogen,
Cordyceps bassiana
. Our data suggest that these thrips soldiers have evolved in response to selection by both macro- and micro-organisms. While it is unknown whether specialized fungal pathogens have been major selective agents in the evolution of the soldier caste in general, they were probably present when sociality first evolved and may have been the primordial enemies of social insects.
Hedging bets with correlated quantum strategies
Authors: Molina Abel , Watrous John
Published: April 2012

This paper studies the potential advantages of correlated answers in hypothetical tests of a simple interactive type. In these tests, an individual is presented with a question, to which he or she must respond with an answer, leading to an outcome of
pass
or
fail
. In quantum information theoretic variants of these tests, we show it is possible for an individual to correlate their answers across multiple tests in a way that produces a striking non-classical behaviour. Specifically, there exist tests for which no strategy can lead to the outcome
pass
with certainty, but where answers to multiple, independently administered tests can be correlated so that at least one test is passed with certainty. This phenomenon, which gives rise to a perfect form of
hedging
when considered in a game-theoretic setting, is quantum in nature: it is not possible in classical variants of the tests we consider.
A viscoplastic theory of shape memory polymer fibres with application to self-healing materials
Authors: Li Guoqiang , Shojaei Amir
Published: April 2012

The difficulty in healing structural damage is that most existing schemes need external help to bring the fractured surfaces in contact before healing can occur. To facilitate the existing schemes to heal macroscopic cracks, we envision that the cracked surfaces can be brought in contact through constrained shape recovery of a shape memory polymer (SMP) fibre-reinforced grid skeleton that is embedded in thermoset polymer matrix, similar to stitch a cut in the human skin by suture. In this study, we show that polyurethane SMP fibres can be hardened through cyclic cold-drawing programming, which makes them suitable for reinforcement and healing in thermoset polymer composites. We characterized the microstructure of the SMP fibres, which provides fundamental understanding of the effect of programming on the degree of crystallinity and molecular orientation. Then, a micromechanical multiscale viscoplastic theory is developed to predict the thermomechanical behaviours of the SMP fibres, including the cyclic hardening and stress recovery responses. The proposed theory takes into account the stress-induced crystallization process and the evolution of the morphological texture based on the applied stresses. The cyclic loading and the thermomechanical responses of the SMP fibres confirm the capabilities of the proposed model in capturing these phenomena.
On the number of limit cycles of a class of polynomial differential systems
Authors: Llibre Jaume , Valls Clàudia
Published: April 2012

We study the number of limit cycles of polynomial differential systems of the form

where
g
1
,
f
1
,
g
2
and
f
2
are polynomials of a given degree. Note that when
g
1
(
x
)=
f
1
(
x
)=0, we obtain the generalized polynomial Liénard differential systems. We provide an accurate upper bound of the maximum number of limit cycles that the above system can have bifurcating from the periodic orbits of the linear centre

,

using the averaging theory of first and second order.
Cooperation and the evolution of intelligence
Authors: McNally Luke , Brown Sam P. , Jackson Andrew L.
Published: April 2012

The high levels of intelligence seen in humans, other primates, certain cetaceans and birds remain a major puzzle for evolutionary biologists, anthropologists and psychologists. It has long been held that social interactions provide the selection pressures necessary for the evolution of advanced cognitive abilities (the ‘social intelligence hypothesis’), and in recent years decision-making in the context of cooperative social interactions has been conjectured to be of particular importance. Here we use an artificial neural network model to show that selection for efficient decision-making in cooperative dilemmas can give rise to selection pressures for greater cognitive abilities, and that intelligent strategies can themselves select for greater intelligence, leading to a Machiavellian arms race. Our results provide mechanistic support for the social intelligence hypothesis, highlight the potential importance of cooperative behaviour in the evolution of intelligence and may help us to explain the distribution of cooperation with intelligence across taxa.
Upstroke wing flexion and the inertial cost of bat flight
Authors: Riskin Daniel K. , Bergou Attila , Breuer Kenneth S. , Swartz Sharon M.
Published: April 2012

Flying vertebrates change the shapes of their wings during the upstroke, thereby decreasing wing surface area and bringing the wings closer to the body than during downstroke. These, and other wing deformations, might reduce the inertial cost of the upstroke compared with what it would be if the wings remained fully extended. However, wing deformations themselves entail energetic costs that could exceed any inertial energy savings. Using a model that incorporates detailed three-dimensional wing kinematics, we estimated the inertial cost of flapping flight for six bat species spanning a 40-fold range of body masses. We estimate that folding and unfolding comprises roughly 44 per cent of the inertial cost, but that the total inertial cost is only approximately 65 per cent of what it would be if the wing remained extended and rigid throughout the wingbeat cycle. Folding and unfolding occurred mostly during the upstroke; hence, our model suggests inertial cost of the upstroke is not less than that of downstroke. The cost of accelerating the metacarpals and phalanges accounted for around 44 per cent of inertial costs, although those elements constitute only 12 per cent of wing weight. This highlights the energetic benefit afforded to bats by the decreased mineralization of the distal wing bones.
The role of moulting in parasite defence
Authors: Duneau David , Ebert Dieter
Published: April 2012

Parasitic infections consist of a succession of steps during which hosts and parasites interact in specific manners. At each step, hosts can use diverse defence mechanisms to counteract the parasite's attempts to invade and exploit them. Of these steps, the penetration of parasites into the host is a key step for a successful infection and the epithelium is the first line of host defence. The shedding of this protective layer (moulting) is a crucial feature in the life cycle of several invertebrate and vertebrate taxa, and is generally considered to make hosts vulnerable to parasites and predators. Here, we used the crustacean
Daphnia magna
to test whether moulting influences the likelihood of infection by the castrating bacterium
Pasteuria ramosa
. This parasite is known to attach to the host cuticula before penetrating into its body. We found that the likelihood of successful parasite infection is greatly reduced if the host moults within 12 h after parasite exposure. Thus, moulting is beneficial for the host being exposed to this parasite. We further show that exposure to the parasite does not induce hosts to moult earlier. We discuss the implications of our findings for host and parasite evolution and epidemiology.
Genetic dissection of a model complex trait using the Drosophila Synthetic Population Resource
Authors: King Elizabeth G. , Merkes Chris M. , McNeil Casey L. , Hoofer Steven R. , Sen Saunak , Broman Karl W. , Long Anthony D. , Macdonald Stuart J.
Published: April 2012

Genetic dissection of complex, polygenic trait variation is a key goal of medical and evolutionary genetics. Attempts to identify genetic variants underlying complex traits have been plagued by low mapping resolution in traditional linkage studies, and an inability to identify variants that cumulatively explain the bulk of standing genetic variation in genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Thus, much of the heritability remains unexplained for most complex traits. Here we describe a novel, freely available resource for the Drosophila community consisting of two sets of recombinant inbred lines (RILs), each derived from an advanced generation cross between a different set of eight highly inbred, completely resequenced founders. The Drosophila Synthetic Population Resource (DSPR) has been designed to combine the high mapping resolution offered by multiple generations of recombination, with the high statistical power afforded by a linkage-based design. Here, we detail the properties of the mapping panel of >1600 genotyped RILs, and provide an empirical demonstration of the utility of the approach by genetically dissecting alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) enzyme activity. We confirm that a large fraction of the variation in this classic quantitative trait is due to allelic variation at the Adh locus, and additionally identify several previously unknown modest-effect trans-acting QTL (quantitative trait loci). Using a unique property of multiparental linkage mapping designs, for each QTL we highlight a relatively small set of candidate causative variants for follow-up work. The DSPR represents an important step toward the ultimate goal of a complete understanding of the genetics of complex traits in the Drosophila model system.
Cirrhosis and mortality risks of biopsy‐verified alcoholic pure steatosis and steatohepatitis: a nationwide registry‐based study
Authors: Deleuran T. , Grønbæk H. , Vilstrup H. , Jepsen P.
Published: April 2012

Background

Alcoholic fatty liver disease comprises alcoholic pure steatosis and alcoholic steatohepatitis. These diseases are prevalent, but their prognostic outcome is uncertain, particularly regarding the impact of hepatic inflammation. The paucity of data based on liver biopsy diagnoses contributes to this uncertainty.

Aim

To examine the cirrhosis and mortality risks of Danish men and women with biopsy‐verified alcoholic pure steatosis or steatohepatitis.

Methods

In this registry‐based historical cohort study we combined liver biopsy diagnoses with hospital discharge diagnoses from nationwide healthcare registries to identify all Danish citizens with alcoholic pure steatosis (N = 136) or alcoholic steatohepatitis (N = 58) during 1997–2008. We enrolled a reference cohort of 100 gender‐ and age‐matched persons from the general population for each patient and compared cirrhosis and mortality risks through 2010.

Results

The 5‐year cirrhosis risks were 6.9% (95%CI: 3.4–12.2%) for patients with alcoholic pure steatosis and 16.0% (95%CI: 7.8–26.8%) for patients with alcoholic steatohepatitis, their 5‐year mortality risks were 16.7% (95%CI: 11.3–24.2%) and 25.1% (95%CI: 15.7–38.9%), respectively. Patients with steatohepatitis had a higher liver‐related mortality than patients with pure steatosis. In the reference cohort, the 5‐year cirrhosis and mortality risks were 0.3% and 4.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

Patients with alcoholic fatty liver disease had markedly increased cirrhosis and mortality risks compared with a matched reference cohort. The cirrhosis risk was more than twice as high for the patients with steatohepatitis than for those with pure steatosis; and was higher for women than for men.
The effect of temperature on di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate leaching from PVC infusion sets exposed to lipid emulsions
Authors: Rose R. J. , Priston M. J. , Rigby‐Jones A. E. , Sneyd J. R.
Published: April 2012

Poly vinyl chloride (PVC) infusion equipment contains substantial amounts of the plasticiser di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). We determined the amount of DEHP leached from Mediplus Dual TIVA® Infusion sets, into lipid and non‐lipid infusates. Two propofol admixtures (Diprivan® 1%, Propoven® 1%), Intralipid® 10% and 0.9% saline were evaluated as infusates. Solutions were infused through TIVA sets at 12 ml.h−1 for 6 h at 24, 32 and 37 °C. In addition, TIVA sets were filled with 2 ml infusates, sealed and incubated at 24 and 37 °C for 6 h. Di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate was detected in all lipid infusates after dynamic infusion and static contact, and in 0.9% saline after dynamic infusion at 37 °C. At 32 and 37 °C, the quantity of di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate leaching into the lipid infusates may exceed the recommended maximum exposure amount set by the European Union for DEHP of 20–48 μg.kg−1.day−1 if lipid based infusates are used for sedation or intravenous feeding of infants or neonates.
Parental stress as a predictor of early childhood caries among preschool children in India
Authors: MENON IPSEETA , NAGARAJAPPA RAMESH , RAMESH GAYATHRI , TAK MRIDULA
Published: April 2012

International journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2013; 23: 160–165

Background.  The health and well‐being of children are linked to their parents’ physical, emotional and social health in addition to child‐rearing practices.

Objectives.  To investigate the association of parental stress as a risk indicator to early childhood caries (ECC) prevalence among preschool children of Moradabad, India.

Methods.  A case–control study was conducted among 800 preschool children [400 cases (caries active) and 400 controls (caries free)] aged 4–5 years along with their parents. Using the Parental Stress Index‐Short Form (PSI/SF), we determined the stress of primary caregivers of young children. These children were clinically examined for dental caries using Dentition Status and Treatment needs. Student’s t‐test, Pearson’s correlation and linear regression were used for statistical analysis.

Results.  An overall mean parenting stress index was found to be 193.48 ± 59.63. Significantly higher mean stress scores were obtained among cases than among controls. Parental stress was significantly correlated with dmft scores and it was found to be one of the best predictors of ECC.

Conclusion.  This study provides data to suggest that parental stress has a pervasive impact on the children’s oral health. The practitioners should be aware of this possible relationship and be prepared to provide appropriate intervention.
Predictors of anxiety and resilience in adolescents undergoing cancer treatment
Authors: Wu Li‐Min , Sheen Jiunn‐Ming , Shu Hsiu‐Lan , Chang Shu‐Chen , Hsiao Chih‐Cheng
Published: April 2012

Aims.  To report a study examining the relationships among coping, anxiety and resilience and to identify predictors of anxiety and resilience in adolescents undergoing cancer treatment.

Background.  Anxiety is the main psychological disturbance in adolescents with cancer, but predictors in the context of anxiety related cancer treatments have not been investigated.

Design.  Cross‐sectional study.

Methods.  Adolescents (n = 131) recruited from three medical centres between 2010–2011. The eligible participants were diagnosed with cancer, without mental disease and receiving chemotherapy. Participants were assessed with the paediatric cancer coping scale, revised children’s manifest anxiety scale, second edition, and the Haase adolescent resilience in illness scale.

Results.  Over 20% of participants scored high on worry. The most commonly used coping strategy was cognitive coping, followed by problem‐oriented coping and finally by defensive coping. There was a statistically significant correlation between defensive coping and level of worry. Resilience was positively correlated with cognitive coping and problem‐oriented coping. The cognitive coping and defensive coping were found to predict anxiety and resilience significantly by a step‐wise multiple regression analysis and accounted for 40·9% and 46·5% of total variance, respectively.

Conclusions.  Cognitive coping and defensive coping are predictors for the level of anxiety and resilience in adolescents undergoing cancer treatment. Health providers should evaluate coping behaviour in patients and work towards a cognitive and problem‐oriented coping style that will benefit the patient’s mental health during treatment.
Variation in 17 obstetric care pathways: potential danger for health professionals and patient safety?
Authors: Sarrechia Mirella , Van Gerven Eva , Hermans Lien , Deneckere Svin , Sermeus Walter , Panella Massimiliano , Spitz Bernard , Vanhaecht Kris
Published: April 2012

Sarrechia M., Van Gerven E., Hermans L., Deneckere S., Sermeus W., Panella M., Spitz B. & Vanhaecht K. (2012) Variation in 17 obstetric care pathways: potential danger for health professionals and patient safety?. Journal of Advanced Nursing69(2), 278–285. doi: 10.1111/j.1365‐2648.2012.06004.x

Aim.  To report a study to determine whether or not variations exist in evidence‐based key interventions in pathway documents for normal delivery across hospitals.

Background.  Care pathways are used worldwide to standardize and follow up patient‐focused care. Minimal variations in pathway documents increase standardization and patient safety.

Design.  A descriptive study design using qualitative methods was used, to examine the various key interventions present in care pathway documents for normal delivery.

Methods.  Between January–March 2009, we evaluated the content of the care pathway document for normal delivery from 17 different hospitals. The key interventions in these pathways were compared with the 40 evidence‐based key interventions of Map of Medicine®.

Results.  There was much variation in the characteristics and the presence of key interventions in the pathway documents. Only 6 of the 40 evidence‐based key interventions (15%) were found in all 17 pathway documents and 20 of the 40 interventions (50%) were found in only 10 pathway documents.

Conclusion.  If variation already exists among the care pathway documents, this may lead to a high probability of variation in the actual performance of daily care. In this study is shown that, even for highly predictable medical conditions, there are huge differences in the evidence‐based content and structure of pathways. Lack of evidence base could potentially endanger both patient safety and the health professional.
A direct and quantitative image of the internal nanostructure of nonordered porous monolithic carbon using FIB nanotomography
Authors: BALACH J. , MIGUEL F. , SOLDERA F. , ACEVEDO D.F. , MÜCKLICH F. , BARBERO C.A.
Published: April 2012

A direct study of the shape, size and connectivity of nonordered pores in carbon materials is particularly challenging. A new method that allows direct three‐dimensional (3D) investigations of mesopores in monolithic carbon materials and quantitative characterization of their physical properties (surface area and pore size distribution) is reported. Focused ion beam (FIB) nanotomography technique is performed by combination of focused ion beam and scanning electron microscope. Porous monolithic carbon is produced by carbonization of a resorcinol‐formaldehyde gel in the presence of a cationic polyelectrolyte as a pore stabilizer.
The use of mechanical restraint in mental health: a catalyst for change?
Authors: CARR P. G.
Published: April 2012

Accessible summary

The use of mechanical restraint in mental health settings has long been fraught with legal and ethical concerns. Despite prevalent use in other countries, in the UK, devices are rarely used outside of the high secure estate. However, use as a last resort is acknowledged by Mental Health Act legislation and by the Care Quality Commission.

As with other containment strategies (such as physical and chemical restraint) there is a paucity of evidence supporting efficacy. Limited guidance exists to support practice, although the British Institute of Learning Disabilities offer excellent guidance.

My experience shows that in the right circumstances, mechanical restraint can not only be a viable last resort option with positive outcomes for the patient, but also a self‐advocated treatment option in life‐threatening circumstances.

The Care Quality Commission recently acknowledged the use of mechanical restraint/s as an intervention for the management of self‐harm. I implemented the use of mechanical restraint for a female patient in life‐threatening circumstances. This involved an exploration of the defining characteristics as well as the history and ethics of mechanical restraint. Informed consent and examining the legal, ethical and organizational frameworks supporting the use of this intervention in the clinical setting were critical to implementation. Ultimately the outcome not only proved to be life saving, but also a ‘catalyst for change’.
Comparison of continuous infusion with intermittent bolus administration of cefotaxime on blood and cavity fluid drug concentrations in neonatal foals
Authors: HEWSON J. , JOHNSON R. , ARROYO L. G. , DIAZ‐MENDEZ A. , RUIZ‐LÓPEZ J. A. , GU Y. , Del CASTILLO J. R. E.
Published: April 2012

Hewson, J., Johnson, R., Arroyo, L. G., Diaz‐Mendez, A., Ruiz‐López, J. A., Gu, Y., del Castillo, J. R. E. Comparison of continuous infusion with intermittent bolus administration of cefotaxime on blood and cavity fluid drug concentrations in neonatal foals.J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 36, 68–77.

Healthy neonatal foals were treated with cefotaxime by bolus (40 mg/kg IV q6h for 12 doses;n = 10) or by infusion (loading dose of 40 mg/kg IV followed by continuous infusion of a total daily dose of 160 mg/kg per 24 h for 3 days;n = 5). Population pharmacokinetics was determined, and concentrations in cavity fluids were measured at steady state (72 h). Highest measured serum drug concentration in the bolus group was 88.09 μg/mL and minimum drug concentration (Cmin) was 0.78 μg/mL at 6‐h postadministration (immediately before each next dose), whereas infusion resulted in a steady‐state concentration of 16.10 μg/mL in the infusion group. Mean cefotaxime concentration in joint fluid at 72 h was higher (P = 0.051) in the infusion group (5.02 μg/mL) compared to the bolus group (0.78 μg/mL). Drug concentration in CSF at 72 h was not different between groups (P = 0.243) and was substantially lower than serum concentrations in either group. Insufficient data on pulmonary epithelial lining fluid were available to compare the methods of administration for cefotaxime in this cavity fluid. Results support continuous drug infusion over bolus dosing in the treatment for neonatal foal septicemia to optimize time that cefotaxime concentration exceeds the minimum inhibitory concentration of common equine pathogens.
Detection of West Nile virus‐specific antibodies and nucleic acid in horses and mosquitoes, respectively, in Nuevo Leon State, northern Mexico, 2006–2007
Authors: IBARRA‐JUAREZ L. , EISEN L. , BOLLING B. G. , BEATY B. J. , BLITVICH B. J. , SANCHEZ‐CASAS R. M. , AYALA‐SULCA Y. O. , FERNANDEZ‐SALAS I.
Published: April 2012

In the last 5 years, there has been only one reported human case of West Nile virus (WNV) disease in northern Mexico. To determine if the virus was still circulating in this region, equine and entomological surveillance for WNV was conducted in the state of Nuevo Leon in northern Mexico in 2006 and 2007. A total of 203 horses were serologically assayed for antibodies to WNV using an epitope‐blocking enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (bELISA). Seroprevalences for WNV in horses sampled in 2006 and 2007 were 26% and 45%, respectively. Mosquito collections in 2007 produced 7365 specimens representing 15 species. Culex mosquitoes were screened for WNV RNA and other genera (Mansonia, Anopheles, Aedes, Psorophora and Uranotaenia) were screened for flaviviruses using reverse‐transcription (RT)‐PCR. Two pools consisting of Culex spp. mosquitoes contained WNV RNA. Molecular species identification revealed that neither pool included Culex quinquefasciatus (Say) (Diptera:Culicidae) complex mosquitoes. No evidence of flaviviruses was found in the other mosquito genera examined. These data provide evidence that WNV is currently circulating in northern Mexico and that non‐Cx. quinquefasciatus spp. mosquitoes may be participating in the WNV transmission cycle in this region.
Aspergillus nidulans CkiA is an essential casein kinase I required for delivery of amino acid transporters to the plasma membrane
Authors: Apostolaki Angeliki , Harispe Laura , Calcagno‐Pizarelli Ana María , Vangelatos Ioannis , Sophianopoulou Vicky , Arst Jr Herbert N. , Peñalva Miguel Angel , Amillis Sotiris , Scazzocchio Claudio
Published: April 2012

Type I casein kinases are highly conserved among Eukaryotes. Of the two Aspergillus nidulans casein kinases I, CkiA is related to the δ/ε mammalian kinases and to Saccharomyces cerevisiæ Hrr25p. CkiA is essential. Three recessive ckiA mutations leading to single residue substitutions, and downregulation using a repressible promoter, result in partial loss‐of‐function, which leads to a pleiotropic defect in amino acid utilization and resistance to toxic amino acid analogues. These phenotypes correlate with miss‐routing of the YAT plasma membrane transporters AgtA (glutamate) and PrnB (proline) to the vacuole under conditions that, in the wild type, result in their delivery to the plasma membrane. Miss‐routing to the vacuole and subsequent transporter degradation results in a major deficiency in the uptake of the corresponding amino acids that underlies the inability of the mutant strains to catabolize them. Our findings may have important implications for understanding how CkiA, Hrr25p and other fungal orthologues regulate the directionality of transport at the ER‐Golgi interface.
Red chlorophyll: the new barium?
Authors: Hennig G. W.
Published: April 2012

Imaging of gastrointestinal (GI) motility remotely through the abdominal wall has always been a tradeoff between resolution and invasiveness. Skin reflects and/or absorbs wavelengths of radiation in the ultraviolet and visible ranges, but is largely transparent to both high‐energy radiation (Gamma to X‐rays; <0.1–10 nm) and low‐energy radiation (infrared to radio waves; 700 nm–10 m). Imaging using short wavelength radiation such as X‐ray cinematography has excellent spatial and temporal resolution, but ionization can produce acute and long‐term deleterious effects to the patient or animal. Other ‘slice‐based’ imaging techniques such as ultrasound/MRI/CT minimize tissue damage, but are limited in the planar area that can be imaged in a timely fashion. This viewpoint article will summarize and explore the implications of recent advances in infrared imaging of the GI tract, in particular, an article published in this issue of NGM entitled ‘In vivo dynamic imaging of intestinal motions using diet‐related autofluorescence’ in which the authors have used infrared imaging in combination with that most elusive ingredient, standard mouse chow, to capture the motions of the mouse GI tract.
Vanishing bronchus intermedius syndrome in a pediatric patient with cystic fibrosis after lung transplantation
Authors: Hayes, Jr. Don , Mansour Heidi M.
Published: April 2012

Hayes D Jr, Mansour HM. Vanishing bronchus intermedius syndrome in a pediatric patient with cystic fibrosis after lung transplantation.

Abstract:  Airway complications occur frequently after lung transplantation. Bronchial stenosis is the most frequently encountered complication with the most severe form of that being the vanishing bronchus intermedius syndrome (VBIS). This rare disorder has never been reported in the pediatric population. This is the first report of VBIS in a pediatric patient, specifically a 16‐yr‐old male patient with cystic fibrosis whose course was complicated by a lower airway infection with Aspergillus fumigatus. The VBIS responded to bronchoscopic balloon dilation and placement of an airway stent.
Chronic diarrhea, ascites, and protein‐losing enteropathy in an infant with hepatic venous outflow obstruction after liver transplantation
Authors: Hourigan S. K. , Anders R. A. , Mitchell S. E. , Schwarz K. B. , Lau H. , Karnsakul W.
Published: April 2012

Hourigan SK, Anders RA, Mitchell SE, Schwarz KB, Lau H, Karnsakul W. Chronic diarrhea, ascites, and protein‐losing enteropathy in an infant with hepatic venous outflow obstruction after liver transplantation.

Abstract:  An 18‐month‐old female status post‐orthotopic liver transplant for biliary atresia presented nine months after transplant with severe diarrhea and intolerance of feeds. She was found to have a PLE as evidenced by a low serum albumin and a persistent elevation of fecal A1AT. Investigation eventually revealed that the cause of the PLE was a stricture at the anastomosis site between the hepatic vein and inferior cava, supported by resolution of the PLE after venoplasty of the stricture. The patient has subsequently required several repeat venoplasties for recurrence of her symptoms correlating with recurrence of the stricture. This is a very rare presentation of hepatic venous outflow obstruction. Moreover, normal duplex ultrasound imaging of liver vasculature and her unusual presentation led to a delay in her diagnosis highlighting the need for an increased index of suspicion.
Anthropogenic structures and the infiltration of natural benthos by invasive ascidians
Authors: Simkanin Christina , Davidson Ian C. , Dower John F. , Jamieson Glen , Therriault Thomas W.
Published: April 2012

Anthropogenic habitats such as marinas and docks are focal points for marine invasions, but relatively little is known about the infiltration of nearby natural habitats by these invaders. To address infiltration by four geographically widespread ascidian invaders, we used a two‐step approach: (i) a field survey with equitable sampling in adjacent artificial and natural habitats in British Columbia, Canada, and (ii) a literature review, to infer larger scale patterns across species’ introduced global ranges. Our field survey revealed differential distribution patterns among the four ascidians recorded, with infiltration of natural rocky habitats by two species, Botrylloides violaceus and Botryllus schlosseri. We did not record Didemnum vexillum or Styela clava in natural habitats, though they were both recorded on adjacent artificial structures. Globally, these ascidian species are predominantly found associated with anthropogenic habitats including floating docks, pilings and aquaculture installations, but they have infiltrated natural habitats in some areas of their introduced range. The factors contributing to infiltration of nearby natural benthic habitats remains unclear, but determining which mechanisms are important for encouraging or hindering the establishment and spread of nonindigenous species beyond artificial structures requires survey and experimental work beyond anthropogenic habitats. Such work will aid our understanding of marine introduction dynamics, invasiveness, and associated management implications.
Interactions of spotted stem borer Chilo partellus with wild relatives of sorghum
Authors: Kamala Venkateswaran , Sharma Hari C. , Manohar Rao Daggu , Varaprasad Kodeboyina S. , Bramel Paula J. , Chandra Subhash
Published: April 2012

With 5 tables

The levels of resistance to spotted stem borer (Chilo partellus) in sorghum are low to moderate. We therefore evaluated wild relatives of sorghum to identify accessions with high levels of resistance to this pest and studied the mechanisms of resistance. Heterosorghum (Sorghum laxiflorum), Para‐sorghum (S. australiense, S. purpureo‐sericeum, S. versicolor, S. matarankense, S. timorense, S. brevicallosum and S. nitidum) and Stiposorghum (S. angustum, S. ecarinatum, S. extans, S. intrans, S. interjectum and S. stipoideum) showed very high levels of resistance to stem borer. Chaetosorghum (S. macrospermum), four wild races of S. bicolor subsp. verticilliflorum and S. halepense were found to be susceptible. Under no‐choice conditions, egg laying was observed on all accessions, which significantly differed among the species/accessions. Accessions belonging to Stiposorghum and Para‐sorghum (S. purpureo‐sericeum, S. versicolor and S. timorense) were significantly less preferred for oviposition than the resistant control, IS 2205. Accessions belonging to Stiposorghum showed slight leaf‐feeding, but there was no deadheart formation. Although there was some damage in Para‐sorghum, very few deadhearts were formed, and a few larvae that were recovered subsequently died. In Heterosorghum, the two accessions of S. laxiflorum were highly preferred for oviposition, and up to 82% deadhearts were recorded, but the six larvae that were recovered died within a month. Accessions belonging to Eu‐sorghum showed maximum deadhearts, larval recovery and adult emergence. The results suggested that some of the wild relatives of sorghum possess high levels of resistance to C. partellus and both antixenosis and antibiosis are major components of resistance to this pest. Accessions showing high levels of resistance to stem borer can be utilized to increase the levels and diversify the bases of resistance to this pest in sorghum.
Nematode‐induced galls in Miconia albicans: effect of host plant density and correlations with performance
Authors: VIANA LEONARDO RODRIGO , SILVEIRA FERNANDO AUGUSTO OLIVEIRA , SANTOS JEAN CARLOS , ROSA LUIZ HENRIQUE , CARES JUVENIL E. , CAFÉ‐FILHO ADALBERTO CORRÊA , FERNANDES GERALDO WILSON
Published: April 2012

The study of nematodes parasitizing native plants plays a crucial role in understanding plant–pathogen interactions. In the present study we describe the patterns of attack by an undescribed species of Ditylenchus occurring in Miconia albicans (Melastomataceae), a widespread, native shrub from the Brazilian cerrado. We also tested the hypothesis that nematode‐induced leaf galls negatively correlate to host plant performance and that gall density is a function of host plant density. We collected paired healthy and attacked shoots from 28 individuals of M. albicans and estimated the leaf area lost to nematode‐induced galls in up to 10 leaves per shoot. We analyzed the relationships between leaf area lost to nematode galls and reproductive traits. Nematode attack levels were also compared to the spatial distribution of the host plant. Inflorescence length and fruit production were significantly reduced in attacked shoots compared with healthy shoots. Seeds from attacked shoots showed no significant reduction in germinability or germination time when compared with seeds collected from healthy shoots. Gall density was positively correlated with host density. Despite being seldom studied in tropical ecosystems, nematodes may play an important role in plant fitness and in structuring tropical communities.
Effectiveness of acute geriatric units in the real world: The case of short‐term mortality among seniors hospitalized for pneumonia
Authors: Ding Yew Yoong , Abisheganaden John , Chong Wai Fung , Heng Bee Hoon , Lim Tow Keang
Published: April 2012

Aim:  We sought to compare the effectiveness of acute geriatric units with usual medical care in reducing short‐term mortality among seniors hospitalized for pneumonia in the real world.

Methods:  In a retrospective cohort study, we merged chart and administrative data of seniors aged 65 years and older admitted to acute geriatric units and other medical units for pneumonia at three hospitals over 1 year. The outcome was 30‐day mortality. Hierarchical logistic regression modeling was carried out to estimate the treatment effect of acute geriatric units for all seniors, those aged 80 years and older, and those with premorbid ambulation impairment, after adjusting for demographic and clinical characteristics, and accounting for clustering around hospitals.

Results:  Among 2721 seniors, 30‐day mortality was 25.5%. For those admitted to acute geriatric and other medical units, this was 24.2% and 25.8%, respectively. Using hierarchical logistic regression modeling, treatment in acute geriatric units was not associated with significant mortality reduction among all seniors (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.52–1.00). However, significant mortality reduction was observed in the subgroups of those aged 80 years and older (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.54–0.99), and with premorbid ambulation impairment (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.46–0.93).

Conclusions:  Acute geriatric units reduced short‐term mortality among seniors hospitalized for pneumonia who were aged 80 years and older or had premorbid ambulation impairment. Further research is required to determine if this beneficial effect extends to seniors hospitalized for other acute medical disorders. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 55–62.
Rehabilitation or compensation: time for a fresh perspective on speech and language therapy for dysphagia and Parkinson's disease?
Authors: Smith Sarah K. , Roddam Hazel , Sheldrick Heulwen
Published: April 2012

Background: Dysphagia is a common symptom of Parkinson's disease and can have negative consequences for physical health and quality of life. A variety of treatment options are available to clinicians working with people who have dysphagia and Parkinson's disease. These options can be broadly categorized as being compensatory or rehabilitative in nature.

Aims: To explore the evidence behind treatment options available to clinicians working with dysphagia and Parkinson's disease and to draw conclusions about whether compensatory or rehabilitative approaches are likely to provide the best outcomes for our patients.

Methods & Procedures: A critical literature review of compensatory and rehabilitative interventions for dysphagia in Parkinson's disease was undertaken. Relevant studies were analysed for their robustness and potential clinical applications. General conclusions were drawn based on the evidence base identified in this review.

Main Contribution: This review outlines the lack of evidence supporting both compensatory and rehabilitative methods of treating dysphagia in Parkinson's disease. It directs clinicians and researchers towards areas that require further investigation.

Conclusions & Implications: To date, compensatory methods of treating dysphagia in Parkinson's disease have received more research attention than rehabilitative methods and yet neither approach has a strong evidence base. This review argues that rehabilitative methods could possibly have greater potential to increase swallowing safety and improve quality of life in the long‐term than compensatory methods alone. However, at present there is a lack of research in this area.
The effect of adjuvant drugs on the quality of tracheal intubation without muscle relaxants in children: a systematic review of randomized trials
Authors: Aouad Marie T. , Yazbeck‐Karam Vanda G. , Mallat Claude E. , Esso Jean J. , Siddik‐Sayyid Sahar M. , Kaddoum Roland N.
Published: April 2012

Intubation without prior administration of muscle relaxants is a common practice in children. However, succinylcholine may be considered as the golden standard for optimizing intubating conditions. We conducted a systematic review of the literature to identify drug combinations that included induction of anesthesia with sevoflurane or propofol. Our aim was to select drug combinations that yield excellent intubating conditions ≥80%; we identified six combinations in children aged 1–9 years. Sevoflurane with remifentanil (1 or 2 μg·kg−1), lidocaine (2 mg·kg−1), or propofol (2 mg·kg−1) as the adjuvant shared the following characteristics: premedication with midazolam and/or ketamine, long sevoflurane exposure time, high inspired and endtidal sevoflurane concentration, and assisted ventilation. One combination using sevoflurane with propofol (3 mg·kg−1) without premedication, with shorter sevoflurane exposure time, and spontaneous breathing indicated that propofol may be the adjuvant of choice for a rapid sevoflurane induction. The only adjuvant identified in propofol induction was remifentanil (4 μg·kg−1). No serious adverse events were reported with these combinations.
The maximum height of grasses is determined by roots
Authors: Cao Kun‐Fang , Yang Shi‐Jian , Zhang Yong‐Jiang , Brodribb Tim J.
Published: April 2012

Ecology Letters (2012) 15: 666–672

Grasses such as bamboos can produce upright stems more than 30 m tall, yet the processes that constrain plant height in this important group have never been investigated. Air embolisms form commonly in the water transport system of grasses and we hypothesised that root pressure‐dependent refilling these embolisms should limit the maximum height of grass species to the magnitude of their root pressure. Confirming this hypothesis, we show that in 59 species of bamboo grown in two common gardens, the maximum heights of culms of 67 clones are closely predicted by the maximum measured root pressure overnight. Furthermore, we demonstrate that water transport in these bamboo species is dependent on root pressure to repair hydraulic dysfunction sustained during normal diurnal gas exchange. Our results established the critical importance of root pressure in the tallest grass species and provide a new basis for understanding the limits for plant growth.
Taxa–area relationship and neutral dynamics influence the diversity of fungal communities on senesced tree leaves
Authors: Feinstein Larry M. , Blackwood Christopher B.
Published: April 2012

This study utilized individual senesced sugar maple and beech leaves as natural sampling units within which to quantify saprotrophic fungal diversity. Quantifying communities in individual leaves allowed us to determine if fungi display a classic taxa–area relationship (species richness increasing with area). We found a significant taxa–area relationship for sugar maple leaves, but not beech leaves, consistent with Wright's species‐energy theory. This suggests that energy availability as affected plant biochemistry is a key factor regulating the scaling relationships of fungal diversity. We also compared taxa rank abundance distributions to models associated with niche or neutral theories of community assembly, and tested the influence of leaf type as an environmental niche factor controlling fungal community composition. Among rank abundance distribution models, the zero‐sum model derived from neutral theory showed the best fit to our data. Leaf type explained only 5% of the variability in community composition. Habitat (vernal pool, upland or riparian forest floor) and site of collection explained > 40%, but could be attributed to either niche or neutral processes. Hence, although niche dynamics may regulate fungal communities at the habitat scale, our evidence points towards neutral assembly of saprotrophic fungi on individual leaves, with energy availability constraining the taxa–area relationship.