bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stock identification of wahoo (Acanthocybium solandri) in the Pacific and Indian Oceans using morphometrics and parasites
Authors: Zischke Mitchell T. , Griffiths Shane P. , Tibbetts Ian R. , Lester Robert J. G.
Published: October 2012

Zischke, M. T., Griffiths, S. P., Tibbetts, I. R., and Lester, R. J. G. 2013. Stock identification of wahoo (Acanthocybium solandri) in the Pacific and Indian Oceans using morphometrics and parasites. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 70:164–172. The wahoo (Acanthocybium solandri) is an increasingly important by-product species of tropical pelagic fisheries worldwide. However, specific management of the species is currently hindered by a dearth of information on basic biology and stock structure. This study examined the stock structure of wahoo using morphometric characters and parasite fauna from fish collected in three regions of the western Pacific, and one region in each of the eastern Pacific and eastern Indian Oceans. Similar morphometric measurements and parasite abundance of wahoo collected off eastern Australia suggest they may form part of a single phenotypic stock in the western Pacific Ocean. Morphometric measurements and parasite fauna were significantly different among wahoo from the western Pacific and eastern Pacific Oceans, suggesting multiple discrete phenotypic stocks despite genetic homogeneity. Assessing fish from a range of regions throughout the Pacific Ocean may help discriminate stock boundaries in this region. Future research using complementary techniques, such as otolith microchemistry and genetic microsatellites, may improve our understanding of the global stock structure of wahoo to suitably inform regional fishery management organizations.
Virtual physiological human: training challenges
Authors: Lawford Patricia V. , Narracott Andrew V. , McCormack Keith , Bisbal Jesus , Martin Carlos , Brook Bindi , Zachariou Margarita , Kohl Peter , Fletcher Katherine , Diaz-Zuccarini Vanessa
Published: October 2012

The virtual physiological human (VPH) initiative encompasses a wide range of activities, including structural and functional imaging, data mining, knowledge discovery tool and database development, biomedical modelling, simulation and visualization. The VPH community is developing from a multitude of relatively focused, but disparate, research endeavours into an integrated effort to bring together, develop and translate emerging technologies for application, from academia to industry and medicine. This process initially builds on the evolution of multi-disciplinary interactions and abilities, but addressing the challenges associated with the implementation of the VPH will require, in the very near future, a translation of quantitative changes into a new quality of highly trained multi-disciplinary personnel. Current strategies for undergraduate and on-the-job training may soon prove insufficient for this. The European Commission seventh framework VPH network of excellence is exploring this emerging need, and is developing a framework of novel training initiatives to address the predicted shortfall in suitably skilled VPH-aware professionals. This paper reports first steps in the implementation of a coherent VPH training portfolio.
Patient-specific reconstructed anatomies and computer simulations are fundamental for selecting medical device treatment: application to a new percutaneous pulmonary valve
Authors: Capelli Claudio , Taylor Andrew M. , Migliavacca Francesco , Bonhoeffer Philipp , Schievano Silvia
Published: October 2012

Nowadays, percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation is a successful alternative to surgery for patients requiring treatment of pulmonary valve dysfunction. However, owing to the wide variety of implantation site morphology, size and dynamics, only about 15 per cent of cases are suitable for current devices. In order to increase the number of patients who could benefit from minimally invasive procedures, a new valved stent graft for percutaneous implantation has been designed recently. In this study, patient-specific computational analyses have been applied to investigate the suitability of new device designs, using real data from 62 patients who had undergone surgical pulmonary valve replacement. Magnetic resonance images of these patients before surgery were elaborated using imaging post-processing software to reconstruct the three-dimensional volume of each patient's implantation site. Three stent designs were created and tested in these patient outflow tracts using finite-element simulations: stent graft SG1 resembles the first device tested in animals; stent graft SG2 is a custom device tailored for a specific patient morphology; and stent graft SG3 represents a hypothetical larger device. The three devices showed an implantation success rate of 37 per cent, 42 per cent and 63 per cent, respectively. Using patient-specific simulations, we have shown that a percutaneous approach with these new devices may be possible for many patients who are currently referred for surgery. Furthermore, when the new devices become available, the methodologies described may help clinicians in the decision-making process, by enabling virtual implantation prior to the actual procedure.
C-terminal tail of human immunodeficiency virus gp41: functionally rich and structurally enigmatic
Authors: Steckbeck Jonathan D. , Kuhlmann Anne-Sophie , Montelaro Ronald C.
Published: October 2012

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) pandemic is amongst the most important current worldwide public health threats. While much research has been focused on AIDS vaccines that target the surface viral envelope (Env) protein, including gp120 and the gp41 ectodomain, the C-terminal tail (CTT) of gp41 has received relatively little attention. Despite early studies highlighting the immunogenicity of a particular CTT sequence, the CTT has been classically portrayed as a type I membrane protein limited to functioning in Env trafficking and virion incorporation. Recent studies demonstrate, however, that the Env CTT has other important functions. The CTT has been shown to additionally modulate Env ectodomain structure on the cell and virion surface, affect Env reactivity and viral sensitivity to conformation-dependent neutralizing antibodies, and alter cell–cell and virus–cell fusogenicity of Env. This review provides an overview of the Env structure and function with a particular emphasis on the CTT and recent studies that highlight its functionally rich nature.
Growth of Transplastomic Cells Expressing d-Amino Acid Oxidase in Chloroplasts Is Tolerant to d-Alanine and Inhibited by d-Valine
Authors: Gisby Martin F. , Mudd Elisabeth A. , Day Anil
Published: October 2012

Dual-conditional positive/negative selection markers are versatile genetic tools for manipulating genomes. Plastid genomes are relatively small and conserved DNA molecules that can be manipulated precisely by homologous recombination. High-yield expression of recombinant products and maternal inheritance of plastid-encoded traits make plastids attractive sites for modification. Here, we describe the cloning and expression of a dao gene encoding d-amino acid oxidase from Schizosaccharomyces pombe in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) plastids. The results provide genetic evidence for the uptake of d-amino acids into plastids, which contain a target that is inhibited by d-alanine. Importantly, this nonantibiotic-based selection system allows the use of cheap and widely available d-amino acids, which are relatively nontoxic to animals and microbes, to either select against (d-valine) or for (d-alanine) cells containing transgenic plastids. Positive/negative selection with d-amino acids was effective in vitro and against transplastomic seedlings grown in soil. The dual functionality of dao is highly suited to the polyploid plastid compartment, where it can be used to provide tolerance against potential d-alanine-based herbicides, control the timing of recombination events such as marker excision, influence the segregation of transgenic plastid genomes, identify loci affecting dao function in mutant screens, and develop d-valine-based methods to manage the spread of transgenic plastids tagged with dao.
The AINTEGUMENTA LIKE1 Homeotic Transcription Factor PtAIL1 Controls the Formation of Adventitious Root Primordia in Poplar
Authors: Rigal Adeline , Yordanov Yordan S. , Perrone Irene , Karlberg Anna , Tisserant Emilie , Bellini Catherine , Busov Victor B. , Martin Francis , Kohler Annegret , Bhalerao Rishi , Legué Valérie
Published: October 2012

Adventitious rooting is an essential but sometimes rate-limiting step in the clonal multiplication of elite tree germplasm, because the ability to form roots declines rapidly with age in mature adult plant tissues. In spite of the importance of adventitious rooting, the mechanism behind this developmental process remains poorly understood. We have described the transcriptional profiles that are associated with the developmental stages of adventitious root formation in the model tree poplar (Populus trichocarpa). Transcriptome analyses indicate a highly specific temporal induction of the AINTEGUMENTA LIKE1 (PtAIL1) transcription factor of the AP2 family during adventitious root formation. Transgenic poplar samples that overexpressed PtAIL1 were able to grow an increased number of adventitious roots, whereas RNA interference mediated the down-expression of PtAIL1 expression, which led to a delay in adventitious root formation. Microarray analysis showed that the expression of 15 genes, including the transcription factors AGAMOUS-Like6 and MYB36, was overexpressed in the stem tissues that generated root primordia in PtAIL1-overexpressing plants, whereas their expression was reduced in the RNA interference lines. These results demonstrate that PtAIL1 is a positive regulator of poplar rooting that acts early in the development of adventitious roots.
catena-Poly[[[diaqua[3-(pyridin-4-yl)benzoato-κ2O,O′]terbium(III)]-bis[μ-3-(pyridin-4-yl)benzoato-κ2O:O′]] monohydrate]
Authors: Wang Hai-Rong , Xia Chao-Hui , Li Guo-Ting
Published: October 2012

In the title compound, {[Tb(C12H8NO2)3(H2O)2]·H2O}n, the TbIIIcation is in an eight-coordinate environment, ligated by six carboxylate O atoms from five 3-(pyridin-4-yl)benzoate (L) ligands and by two O atoms from water molecules. The cations are bridged by the carboxylate O atoms of theLligands to form a two-stranded polymeric chain which is assembled into a three-dimensional supramolecular network through regular interchain O—H...N hydrogen bonding. On excitation at 320 nm, the title compound displays a series of emissions, which were assigned to the characteristic electronic transitions of TbIII.
Structure analysis of geranyl pyrophosphate methyltransferase and the proposed reaction mechanism of SAM-dependentC-methylation
Authors: Ariyawutthiphan Orapin , Ose Toyoyuki , Minami Atsushi , Sinde Sandip , Tsuda Muneya , Gao Yong-Gui , Yao Min , Oikawa Hideaki , Tanaka Isao
Published: October 2012

In the typical isoprenoid-biosynthesis pathway, condensation of the universal C5-unit precursors isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl pyrophosphate (DMAPP) occursviathe common intermediates prenyl pyrophosphates (C10–C20). The diversity of isoprenoids reflects differences in chain length, cyclization and further additional modification after cyclization. In contrast, the biosynthesis of 2-methylisonorneol (2-MIB), which is responsible for taste and odour problems in drinking water, is unique in that it primes the enzymatic methylation of geranyl pyrophosphate (GPP) before cyclization, which is catalyzed by anS-adenosyl-L-methionine-dependent methyltransferase (GPPMT). The substrate of GPPMT contains a nonconjugated olefin and the reaction mechanism is expected to be similar to that of the steroid methyltransferase (SMT) family. Here, structural analysis of GPPMT in complex with its cofactor and substrate revealed the mechanisms of substrate recognition and possible enzymatic reaction. Using the structures of these complexes, methyl-group transfer and the subsequent proton-abstraction mechanism are discussed. GPPMT and SMTs contain a conserved glutamate residue that is likely to play a role as a general base. Comparison with the reaction mechanism of the mycolic acid cyclopropane synthase (MACS) family also supports this result. This enzyme represented here is the first model of the enzymaticC-methylation of a nonconjugated olefin in the isoprenoid-biosynthesis pathway. In addition, an elaborate system to avoid methylation of incorrect substrates is proposed.
Structural characterization of a modification subunit of a putative type I restriction enzyme fromVibrio vulnificusYJ016
Authors: Park Suk-Youl , Lee Hyun-Ju , Song Jung-Mi , Sun Jiali , Hwang Hyo-Jeong , Nishi Kosuke , Kim Jeong-Sun
Published: October 2012

In multifunctional type I restriction enzymes, active methyltransferases (MTases) are constituted of methylation (HsdM) and specificity (HsdS) subunits. In this study, the crystal structure of a putative HsdM subunit fromVibrio vulnificusYJ016 (vvHsdM) was elucidated at a resolution of 1.80 Å. A cofactor-binding site forS-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM, a methyl-group donor) is formed within the C-terminal domain of an α/β-fold, in which a number of residues are conserved, including the GxGG and (N/D)PP(F/Y) motifs, which are likely to interact with several functional moieties of the SAM methyl-group donor. Comparison with the N6 DNA MTase ofThermus aquaticusand other HsdM structures suggests that two aromatic rings (Phe199 and Phe312) in the motifs that are conserved among the HsdMs may sandwich both sides of the adenine ring of the recognition sequence so that a conserved Asn residue (Asn309) can interact with the N6 atom of the target adenine base (a methyl-group acceptor) and locate the target adenine base close to the transferred SAM methyl group.
A Drug Fatality Involving Kratom
Authors: Neerman Michael F. , Frost Randall E. , Deking Janine
Published: October 2012

A 17‐year‐old white man who showed no obvious signs of trauma was found unresponsive in bed and was pronounced dead at the scene. The decedent had a documented history of heroin abuse and chronic back pain and reportedly self‐medicated with Kratom (mitragynine). The autopsy was remarkable only for pulmonary congestion and edema and a distended bladder, both of which are consistent with, though not diagnostic of, opiate use. A laboratory work‐up revealed therapeutic levels of over‐the‐counter cold medications and benzodiazepines. However, of interest was a level of mitragynine at 0.60 mg/L. Given the facts of the case, the Medical Examiner certified the cause of death as “possible Kratom toxicity” and the manner of death was classified as “accident.”
The Evaluation of Fatty Acid Ratios in Latent Fingermarks by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) Analysis
Authors: Michalski Seth , Shaler Robert , Dorman Frank L.
Published: October 2012

Despite advances in DNA, fingermarks remain one the best forms of evidence available. While fingermarks are routinely analyzed in terms of their patterns, it may be possible to obtain additional information in terms of their chemical composition. If successful, a chemical analysis of the constituents of a fingermark may give scientists additional information that may help in the identification of a person. The results presented herein describe the initial investigation into the analytical determination of some of these compounds, specifically the fatty acids. This study was specifically aimed at identifying possible fatty acids, which could aid in profiling or perhaps uniquely identifying an individual. Preliminary data obtained in this study suggests that this may in fact be possible, though additional research is certainly necessary. Utilizing gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, significant differences in the ratios of several fatty acid methyl esters were found when comparing individuals of varying race and gender. In addition, large intervariability and intravariability was discovered for some compounds, suggesting the possibility of being able to individualize based on chemical profile. Follow‐up investigations will continue to determine whether this continues to be the case as greater numbers of individuals are sampled and more extensive control and information on the subjects is obtained.
Belimumab: targeted therapy for lupus
Authors: Chugh Preeta K. , Kalra Bhupinder S.
Published: October 2012

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a complex autoimmune disease with multisystem involvement, is characterised by recurring flares and remissions throughout the course of illness. The agents currently being used for management include corticosteroids, antimalarials and various immunosuppressants. Belimumab, a B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) inhibitor has been recently approved for the treatment of SLE. This review aims to discuss the role of belimumab in the treatment of SLE and the trials leading to its FDA approval. Belimumab demonstrated high degree of activity in patients with autoantibody‐positive active SLE disease on a stable treatment regimen. There was a significantly greater response compared to placebo as assessed with the SLE Responder Index (SRI) in two randomized, double‐blind, phase III trials (BLISS‐52 and BLISS‐76). The treatment was well tolerated. Additional studies are required to evaluate belimumab in special populations and assess its long‐term safety. This therapy could change the focus of management from symptomatic treatment to targeting an important step in the disease pathogenesis. It could enable development of treatment which could halt long‐term progression, minimize target organ damage and thus provide a better quality of life for these patients.
Cardiovascular morbidity in rheumatoid arthritis patients in North Canterbury, New Zealand 1999–2008
Authors: Khan Emon A. R. , Stamp Lisa K. , O'Donnell John L. , Chapman Peter T.
Published: October 2012

Aim

Cardiovascular disease is a substantial contributor to increased morbidity and mortality in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim of this audit was to determine the rate of cardiovascular events in a cohort of newly diagnosed RA patients.

Method

The inpatient clinical database from Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand, was searched using the International Classification of Diseases 9th Revision (ICD9) and 10 codes representing RA and cardiovascular disease between 1 January 1999 and 31 December 2008. Notes were reviewed with additional demographic and medication data sought. Outpatient data for RA patients was collated from the Rheumatology Department's letter database.

Results

Four hundred and six patients were identified with combined ICD9 or 10 codes for RA and ischemic heart disease, of whom 194 had a confirmed myocardial event. Of these, 34 were diagnosed with RA between January 1999 and December 2008 prior to their myocardial event. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed risk of a cardiovascular event at 1 and 10 years was 0.64% and 9.4%, respectively. There were 26 confirmed deaths in the study period. The risk of death at 1 and 10 years was 0.48% and 8.16%, respectively.

Conclusion

We have shown a relatively low prevalence of cardiovascular events in this RA population diagnosed within a 10 year period. This is consistent with other reports and likely reflects the short follow‐up period. Prospective longer‐term studies will be required to further investigate the relative contribution of disease activity and other parameters to cardiovascular events in patients with early RA.
Oral health in Australian HIV patients since the advent of combination antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Freeman AD , Liberali SA , Coates EA , Logan RM
Published: October 2012

Background:  The introduction of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has resulted in changes to the oral health of infected individuals. Little data are available describing prevalence and severity of oral manifestations in a post cART cohort of HIV positive patients.

Methods:  A retrospective case note analysis was performed at the Special Needs Unit (SNU), Adelaide Dental Hospital with emphasis on identifying the prevalence of HIV related oral manifestations (OM). A total of 498 (474 males: 24 females) HIV positive individuals were identified who had attended SNU for dental care between 2001 and 2008.

Results:  There were significant differences observed in the prevalence of oral manifestations between cART and non‐cART groups, and also in comparison to a previous pilot study. Individuals taking cART therapy tended to present with more evidence of linear gingival erythema, angular cheilitis, human papilloma virus associated squamous papillomas and xerostomia.

Conclusions:  The widespread adoption of cART in the treatment of HIV has altered the oral health profile of these individuals. These findings provide information on the incidence of oral conditions and demonstrate the need to identify and address oral health needs for people living with HIV.
Interpersonal problems across anxiety, depression, and eating disorders: A transdiagnostic examination
Authors: McEvoy Peter M. , Burgess Melissa M. , Page Andrew C. , Nathan Paula , Fursland Anthea
Published: October 2012

Objectives

Integrative models of psychopathology suggest that quality of interpersonal relationships is a key determinant of psychological well‐being. However, there is a relative paucity of research evaluating the association between interpersonal problems and psychopathology within cognitive behavioural therapy. Partly, this may be due to lack of brief, well‐validated, and easily interpretable measures of interpersonal problems that can be used within clinical settings. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the psychometric properties, factor invariance, and external validity of the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems 32 (IIP‐32) across anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.

Methods

Two treatment‐seeking samples with principal anxiety and depressive disorders (AD sample, n = 504) and eating disorders (ED sample, n = 339) completed the IIP‐32 along with measures of anxiety, depression, and eating disorder symptoms, as well as quality of life (QoL).

Results

The previously established eight‐factor structure of the IIP‐32 provided the best fit for both the AD and ED groups, and was robustly invariant across the two samples. The IIP‐32 also demonstrated excellent external validity against well‐validated measures of anxiety, depression, and eating disorder symptoms, as well as QoL.

Conclusion

The IIP‐32 provides a clinically useful measure of interpersonal problems across emotional and ED.

Practitioner Points

The IIP‐32 is a brief, valid, internally reliable, and clinically useful measure of interpersonal problems for clients with anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.

Difficulty being sociable and a tendency to subjugate oneself by prioritizing others’ needs were consistently associated with more severe anxiety, depression, and eating disorders symptoms, as well as poorer quality of life.

The IIP‐32 may be a useful measure of interpersonal problems to guide individualized case formulations.

Cautions/Limitations

A cross‐sectional and correlational design precluded causal conclusions.

Numerous versions of the IIP have been developed. Our findings with the IIP‐32 require replication.

Some anxiety and depression diagnoses were underrepresented, and the eating disorders sample was predominantly comprised of women.
Activation and desensitization of TRPV1 channels in sensory neurons by the PPARα agonist palmitoylethanolamide
Authors: Ambrosino Paolo , Soldovieri Maria Virginia , Russo Claudio , Taglialatela Maurizio
Published: October 2012

Background and Purpose

Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endogenous fatty acid amide displaying anti‐inflammatory and analgesic actions. To investigate the molecular mechanism responsible for these effects, the ability of PEA and of pain‐inducing stimuli such as capsaicin (CAP) or bradykinin (BK) to influence intracellular calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]i) in peripheral sensory neurons, has been assessed in the present study. The potential involvement of the transcription factor PPARα and of TRPV1 channels in PEA‐induced effects was also studied.

Experimental Approach

[Ca2+]i was evaluated by single‐cell microfluorimetry in differentiated F11 cells. Activation of TRPV1 channels was assessed by imaging and patch‐clamp techniques in CHO cells transiently‐transfected with rat TRPV1 cDNA.

Key Results

In F11 cells, PEA (1–30 μM) dose‐dependently increased [Ca2+]i. The TRPV1 antagonists capsazepine (1 μM) and SB‐366791 (1 μM), as well as the PPARα antagonist GW‐6471 (10 μM), inhibited PEA‐induced [Ca2+]i increase; blockers of cannabinoid receptors were ineffective. PEA activated TRPV1 channels heterologously expressed in CHO cells; this effect appeared to be mediated at least in part by PPARα. When compared with CAP, PEA showed similar potency and lower efficacy, and caused stronger TRPV1 currents desensitization. Sub‐effective PEA concentrations, closer to those found in vivo, counteracted CAP‐ and BK‐induced [Ca2+]i transients, as well as CAP‐induced TRPV1 activation.

Conclusions and Implications

Activation of PPARα and TRPV1 channels, rather than of cannabinoid receptors, largely mediate PEA‐induced [Ca2+]i transients in sensory neurons. Differential TRPV1 activation and desensitization by CAP and PEA might contribute to their distinct pharmacological profile, possibly translating into potentially relevant clinical differences.
Immunotherapeutic benefit of α‐interferon (IFNα) in survivin2B‐derived peptide vaccination for advanced pancreatic cancer patients
Authors: Kameshima Hidekazu , Tsuruma Tetsuhiro , Kutomi Goro , Shima Hiroaki , Iwayama Yuji , Kimura Yasutoshi , Imamura Masahumi , Torigoe Toshihiko , Takahashi Akari , Hirohashi Yoshihiko , Tamura Yasuaki , Tsukahara Tomohide , Kanaseki Takayuki , Sato Noriyuki , Hirata Koichi
Published: October 2012

Survivin, a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) family containing a single baculovirus IAP repeat domain, is highly expressed in cancerous tissues but not in normal counterparts. Our group identified an HLA‐A24‐restricted antigenic peptide, survivin‐2B80–88 (AYACNTSTL), that is recognized by CD8 + CTLs and functions as an immunogenic molecule in patients with cancers of various histological origins such as colon, breast, lung, oral, and urogenital malignancies. Subsequent clinical trials with this epitope peptide alone resulted in clinical and immunological responses. However, these were not strong enough for routine clinical use as a therapeutic cancer vaccine, and our previous study of colon cancer patients indicated that treatment with a vaccination protocol of survivin‐2B80–88 plus incomplete Freund's adjuvant (IFA) and α‐interferon (IFNα) conferred overt clinical improvement and enhanced the immunological responses of patients. In the current study, we further investigated whether this vaccination protocol could efficiently provide not only improved immune responses but also better clinical outcomes for advanced pancreatic cancers. Tetramer and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent spot analysis data indicated that more than 50% of the patients had positive clinical and immunological responses. In contrast, assessment of treatment with IFNα only to another group of cancer patients resulted in no obvious increase in the frequency of survivin‐2B80‐88 peptide‐specific CTLs. Taken together, our data clearly indicate that a vaccination protocol of survivin‐2B80‐88 plus IFA and IFNα is very effective and useful in immunotherapy for this type of poor‐prognosis neoplasm. This trial was registered with the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry, no. UMIN000000905. (Cancer Sci 2013; 104: 124–129)
Establishment and evolution of the Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Register and DNA Bank
Authors: De Roach John N , McLaren Terri L , Paterson Rachel L , O'Brien Emily C , Hoffmann Ling , Mackey David A , Hewitt Alex W , Lamey Tina M
Published: October 2012

Background

Inherited retinal disease represents a significant cause of blindness and visual morbidity worldwide. With the development of emerging molecular technologies, accessible and well‐governed repositories of data characterising inherited retinal disease patients is becoming increasingly important. This manuscript introduces such a repository.

Design

Participants were recruited from the Retina Australia membership, through the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists, and by recruitment of suitable patients attending the Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital visual electrophysiology clinic.

Participants

Four thousand one hundred ninety‐three participants were recruited. All participants were members of families in which the proband was diagnosed with an inherited retinal disease (excluding age‐related macular degeneration).

Methods

Clinical and family information was collected by interview with the participant and by examination of medical records. In 2001, we began collecting DNA from Western Australian participants. In 2009 this activity was extended Australia‐wide. Genetic analysis results were stored in the register as they were obtained.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measurement was the number of DNA samples (with associated phenotypic information) collected from Australian inherited retinal disease‐affected families.

Results

DNA was obtained from 2873 participants. Retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease and Usher syndrome participants comprised 61.0%, 9.9% and 6.4% of the register, respectively.

Conclusions

This resource is a valuable tool for investigating the aetiology of inherited retinal diseases. As new molecular technologies are translated into clinical applications, this well‐governed repository of clinical and genetic information will become increasingly relevant for tasks such as identifying candidates for gene‐specific clinical trials.
Acute transient corneal endothelial changes following selective laser trabeculoplasty
Authors: White Andrew JR , Mukherjee Achyut , Hanspal Inderraj , Sarkies Nicholas J , Martin Keith R , Shah Peter
Published: October 2012

Background

To report for the first time acute transient corneal endothelial changes following selective laser trabeculoplasty.

Design

Observational case series at a tertiary referral ophthalmological centre in the United Kingdom (Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge)

Participants

Ten consecutive routinely treated patients.

Methods

Baseline measurements of corneal specular microscopy, endothelial cell counts and in vivo confocal microscopy were performed prior to routine selective laser trabeculoplasty treatment. Repeat measurements were made approximately 1 h later and at a 6‐week follow up.

Main Outcome Measures

Endothelial in vitro laser confocal microscopy, specular microscopic endothelial cell count, endothelial morphology, visual acuity and intraocular pressure.

Results

All patients had normal corneal endothelia prior to routine selective laser trabeculoplasty treatment, where 180 degrees of angle was treated. Approximately an hour afterwards, nearly all patients still had normal specular microscopy and cell counts (2237 ± 211 cells/mm2) but had subtle endothelial changes on slit‐lamp examination. These changes were found diffusely across the cornea. The changes were not present at the 6‐week follow up and cell counts remained unchanged (2278 ± 242 cells/mm2). Acuity remained unchanged throughout and the patients were not aware of these changes subjectively.

Conclusions

Selective laser trabeculoplasty appears to cause transient corneal endothelial changes in most patients that have no impact on cell count or visual acuity. Further work is required to elucidate the mechanism of this phenomenon and any long‐term impact.
The relationship between reactance and engagement in a child welfare sample
Authors: Mirick Rebecca G.
Published: October 2012

Parents frequently do not engage in child welfare services. A lack of engagement can lead to significant negative consequences for families. A relationship between psychological reactance and engagement in the context of child welfare work has been theorized but not examined empirically. This paper presents the results of a preliminary descriptive study (N = 43) which found a significant negative relationship (r = −0.277, P < 0.05) between individual reactance levels and levels of engagement in child welfare services. A four‐dimension measure of engagement was used. Significant relationships were found between reactance and the dimensions of working relationship (r = −0.260, P < −0.05) and mistrust (r = 0.340, P < 0.05) and a similar trend was seen with a third dimension, receptivity (r = −0.245, P = 0.056). There was no significant relationship between reactance and the fourth dimension, buy‐in. The implications of these findings for child welfare work are explored.
A comparative study of colorectal surgical outcome in a national audit separated by 15 years
Authors: Evans M. D. , Thomas R. , Williams G. L. , Beynon J. , Smith J. J. , Stamatakis J. D. , Stephenson B. M. ,   the Welsh Bowel Cancer Audit
Published: October 2012

Aim

The Wales‐Trent Bowel Cancer Audit (WTBA) was carried out in 1993, and since 2001 Welsh Bowel Cancer Audits (WBCA) have taken place annually. Screening for bowel cancer in Wales was introduced in 2008. This study compared patient variables, the role of surgery and operative mortality rates over the 15‐year interval between the WTBA and the last WBCA before the introduction of population screening.

Method

Data from the WTBA in 1993 were compared with those of the WBCA including patients diagnosed between April 2007 and March 2008.

Results

In 1993, 1536 patients were diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) compared with 1793 in 2007–2008. Patient demographics and American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score did not change during these periods. Surgical treatment for CRC decreased (93% in 1993 vs 80% in 2007–2008; P < 0.001) particularly in the use of resectional surgery (84% in 1993 vs 71% in 2007–2008; P < 0.001). The 30‐day postoperative mortality rate fell from 7.4% in 1993 to 5.9% in 2007–2008 (P = 0.097). Advanced disease at operation was more prevalent in the WTBA (25% of all operated patients were Stage IV in 1993 vs 13% in 2007–2008; P < 0.001). The use of surgery in patients with metastatic disease also declined over this period.

Conclusion

Surgery is used less frequently in the management of CRC compared with 15 years previously, and is a factor in the reduction of the interpreted 30‐day operative mortality.
Extracellular regulated kinase5 is expressed in fetal mouse submandibular glands and is phosphorylated in response to epidermal growth factor and other ligands of the ErbB family of receptors
Authors: Koyama Noriko , Hayashi Toru , Mizukoshi Kenji , Matsumoto Tsuguteru , Gresik Edward W. , Kashimata Masanori
Published: October 2012

Growth factors and their receptors regulate development of many organs through activation of multiple intracellular signaling cascades including a mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK). Extracellular regulated kinases (ERK)1/2, classic MAPK family members, are expressed in fetal mouse submandibular glands (SMG), and stimulate branching morphogenesis. ERK5, also called big mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1, was recently found as a new member of MAPK super family, and its biological roles are still largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the expression and function of ERK5 in developing fetal mouse SMGs. Western blotting analysis showed that the expression pattern of ERK5 was different from the pattern of ERK1/2 in developing fetal SMGs. Both ERK1/2 and ERK5 were phosphorylated after exposure to ligands of the ErbB family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). Phosphorylation of ERK1/2 was strongly induced by epidermal growth factor (EGF) in SMG rudiments at embryonic day 14 (E14), E16 and E18. However, ERK5 phosphorylation induced by EGF was clearly observed at E14 and E16, but not at E18. Branching morphogenesis of cultured E13 SMG rudiments was strongly suppressed by administration of U0126, an inhibitor for ERK1/2 activation, whereas the phosphorylation of ERK5 was not inhibited by U0126. BIX02188, a specific inhibitor for ERK5 activation, also inhibited branching morphogenesis in cultured SMG rudiments. These results show that EGF‐responsive ERK5 is expressed in developing fetal mouse SMG, and suggest that both ERK1/2 and ERK5 signaling cascades might play an important role in the regulation of branching morphogenesis.
Hessian fly Avirulence gene loss‐of‐function defeats plant resistance without compromising the larva's ability to induce a gall tissue
Authors: Harris M.O. , Freeman T.P. , Anderson K.M. , Harmon J.P. , Moore J.A. , Payne S.A. , Rohfritsch O. , Stuart J.J.
Published: October 2012

Plant pathogen effectors encoded by Avirulence (Avr) genes benefit the pathogen by promoting colonization and benefit plants that have a matching resistance (R) gene by constituting a signal that triggers resistance. The Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say) (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), resembles a plant pathogen in showing R/Avr interactions. Because of these interactions, a wheat plant with the H13 resistance gene can be resistant or susceptible depending on the genotype of the larva that attacks the plant, being resistant if attack comes from a larva with a functional vH13 gene, but susceptible if attack comes from a larva with a non‐functional vH13 gene. In this study we asked: does this susceptible interaction involving plants with H13 look like susceptible interactions with plants lacking H13? Possibly, the H13 plant attacked by a larva with a non‐functional vH13 is induced to partial rather than complete resistance. Or the larva, lacking its vH13‐encoded effector, is compromised in its ability to induce susceptibility, which includes forcing the plant to create a gall nutritive tissue. Responses of epidermal cells to larval attack were explored using imaging techniques (light microscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopy). Whole‐organism responses were investigated by measuring the growth of plants and larvae. No evidence was found for partial resistance responses by H13 plants or for a compromise in the ability of vH13 loss‐of‐function larvae to induce susceptibility. It appears that disrupting vH13 function is sufficient for overcoming the induced resistance mediated by the H13 gene.
Responses of Tribolium castaneum to olfactory cues from cotton seeds, the fungi associated with cotton seeds, and cereals
Authors: Ahmad Faheem , Daglish Gregory J. , Ridley Andrew W. , Walter Gimme H.
Published: October 2012

We tested, in an olfactometer, whether or not Tribolium castaneum Herbst (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) responds preferentially to the volatiles that emanate from the fungi associated with cotton [Gossypium hirsutum L. (Malvaceae)] seed over those that emanate from cereals, because cereals are usually portrayed as the primary resources of these beetles. Pairwise comparisons were conducted between cotton seed, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] (both Poaceae); volatiles were tested from intact seeds and from both water and ethanol extracts. The results demonstrate that T. castaneum is attracted more strongly to cotton seeds with its lint contaminated with fungi, than to the conventional resources of this species (i.e., wheat and sorghum). Further tests prove that it is the fungus on the lint that produces the active volatiles, because the beetles did not respond to sterilized cotton lint (i.e., without the fungi typically associated with it when cotton seed is stored). Tests with five fungal cultures (each representing an unidentified species that was isolated from the field‐collected cotton lint) were variable across the cultures, with only one of them being significantly attractive to the beetles. The others were not attractive and one may even have repulsed the beetles. The results are consistent with the beetles having a strong ecological association with fungi and suggest it would be worth investigating the ecology of T. castaneum from this perspective.
The integration of biodiversity and climate change: A contextual assessment of the carbon farming initiative
Authors: van Oosterzee Penny
Published: October 2012

Summary  The Carbon Farming Initiative (CFI) allows the creation of tradable Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) derived from across the ecosystem sector via project‐level baseline and credit activities: it is the first national offset scheme in the world to broadly include farming and forestry projects. Because these activities have the potential to produce both biodiversity and climate change benefits, a crucial outcome is for widespread uptake of the policy. However, the design, complexity and cost of the CFI project development process, and low prices as a result of ACCUs trading in the voluntary market, will all likely militate against this. This article shows how international politics and policy surrounding the Kyoto Protocol have influenced the design of the CFI, with its potential to proliferate complex and narrow methodologies and counter‐productive approaches to integrity standards such as permanence. The article shows that despite the pressing need to integrate biodiversity and climate change considerations as equally important challenges, their global integration remains poorly articulated. Biodiversity considerations are also not integrated into the CFI but, rather, are dealt with indirectly through safeguard measures that avoid perverse incentives and unintended harm, and as an optional co‐benefit via the development of an index. This article suggests that we need to move past the shackles of Kyoto towards streamlined and standardized approaches such as risk‐based assessments and the use of regional baselines. Using regionally specific baselines such as for avoided deforestation would allow landholders to opt‐in to regional‐scale mitigation opportunities. Activities that Australia accounts for, such as reforestation and deforestation, should also be able to opt‐in for coverage under the Clean Energy Act (and out of the voluntary carbon market) to obtain a secure price.
Reforestation: A potential approach to mitigate excess atmospheric CH4 build‐up
Authors: Singh Jay Shankar , Singh Devendra Pratap
Published: October 2012

Summary  Methane (CH4) is a very dangerous greenhouse gas, and its atmospheric concentration is rising due to natural and anthropogenic disturbances. Anthropogenic disturbances such as forest clearing, land‐use changes and farming practices all result in considerable increases in N inputs and alterations in soil properties, including the CH4 sink potential of the soil. Forest soils contribute to the consumption of CH4 due to the presence of methanotrophic bacteria. It is proposed that the restoration of degraded forest ecosystems or unused degraded land may significantly contribute to the recovery of methanotrophic activity in the soil and thereby the soil CH4 sink potential.
Big Scrub: A cleared landscape in transition back to forest?
Authors: Parkes Tony , Delaney Mike , Dunphy Mark , Woodford Ralph , Bower Hank , Bower Sue , Bailey Darren , Joseph Rosemary , Nagle John , Roberts Tim , Lymburner Stephanie , McDonald Tein
Published: October 2012

Restoring the rainforests of the Big Scrub is a powerful restoration symbol for the regional communities of far north coast New South Wales, but it is only a partly realized aspiration. What progress has been made in 35 years and to what extent is the aspiration achievable?
Immunisation of mares with binding domains of toxinsAandBofClostridium difficileelicits serum and colostral antibodies that block toxin binding
Authors: Artiushin S. , Timoney J. F. , Fettinger M. , Fallon L. , Rathgeber R.
Published: October 2012

Reasons for performing study

Enterocolitis caused byClostridium difficile(C. difficile) is a serious, sometimes fatal, disease of neonatal foals and older horses.ToxinsAandB(TcdAandB) produced byC. difficileare important virulence factors. Immunisation of mares with receptor binding domains of toxins may prevent or reduce the severity ofC. difficilecolitis in foals.

Objectives

To determine whether antibodies generated in the pregnant mare to the binding regions ofTcdAandBwill neutraliseTcdAandBtoxicity.

Methods

Sequences encoding the binding domains of each toxin were isolated byPCRamplification fromC. difficile JF09, a foal isolate, and cloned and expressed intopET15b. Thirteen mares were immunised twice 2 weeks apart with 200 μg of each recombinant protein withQuilA2 months prior to foaling. Antibodies were assayed in the sera and colostrum byELISAand for ability to block the cytopathic activity of each of toxin for equine endothelial cells.

Results

All mares produced strong serum antibody responses to the binding domain of each toxin. A high level of toxin‐specific antibodies was also detected in colostrum and in most foal sera 2 days after suckling. Diluted sera and colostrum premixed with eitherTcdAorBhad no effect on the morphology of equine endothelial cells. Application of the same concentration of toxins alone or premixed with nonimmune mare/foal serum or colostrum led to an unambiguous cytopathic effect that ranged from complete degradation to varying degrees of cell rounding.

Conclusions

Immunisation of pregnant mares with recombinant binding domains ofTcdAandBofC. difficileresulted in the production of specific antibodies in serum and colostrum that blocked the cytopathic activity of toxins.

Potential relevance

Results of studies support the feasibility of a prepartum vaccine againstC. difficileenterocolitis in foals.
Utilisation of search filters in systematic reviews of prognosis questions
Authors: Chatterley Trish , Dennett Liz
Published: October 2012

Background

Search filters are designed to increase efficiency of information retrieval and can be particularly useful in limiting the large numbers of articles retrieved for systematic reviews (SRs). Existing published prognosis search filters (or hedges) have lower sensitivity and precision values than their therapy counterparts.

Objectives

Taking into account the relatively poor performance of prognosis filters, this study seeks to identify which methods of limiting search results to prognostic studies are most often used by SR teams.

Methods

One hundred and three SRs of prognostic studies published in 2009 and indexed in MEDLINE were retrieved. Each review's search strategy was reviewed and prognosis‐related search terms were extracted.

Results

Forty‐seven of 103 studies used prognosis‐related terms to limit the search. Six SRs of 103 did not specify their search terms, and the remaining 50 SRs used content terms only (no terms related to methodology or prognosis). Of the 47 strategies using prognosis‐related terms, only six used a published filter. Many SRs used few or poorly selected prognosis‐related search terms which are unlikely to provide the sensitivity generally sought for SRs.

Conclusions

Published prognosis search filters are used in only a small minority of prognosis SRs.